Closest Airport to Ninh Binh Vietnam: Distance and Transfers

Looking for the closest airport to Ninh Binh Vietnam? Tho Xuan Airport is the nearest by distance, while Noi Bai is generally more convenient for international travelers because it offers broader flight connections. This guide compares Tho Xuan, Noi Bai and Cat Bi, along with the main transfer options from each airport to Ninh Binh.

1. Closest Airports to Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh does not currently have an operational passenger airport, so travelers must fly to another city and continue by road or rail. Travelers planning the rest of their stay can use this Ninh Binh travel guide to explore the region’s main attractions and organize their itinerary after arrival. The distances below are approximate and may vary depending on whether your accommodation is in Ninh Binh City, Tam Coc, Trang An or another area. 

1.1. Tho Xuan Airport (THD): About 90 km from Ninh Binh

Tho Xuan is the nearest airport to Ninh Binh by distance - Source: Pinterest

Tho Xuan Airport is located in Thanh Hoa and is generally considered the closest airport to Ninh Binh. The road journey covers approximately 90 km and normally takes around one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic, the chosen route and your final destination.

Despite being the nearest option, Tho Xuan mainly serves domestic passengers and has a much smaller flight network than Noi Bai. It is worth considering when a suitable domestic flight matches your itinerary, particularly if you can arrange a direct transfer from the airport to Ninh Binh.

1.2. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): About 110 km from Ninh Binh

Noi Bai provides convenient connections for international visitors - Source: Pinterest

Noi Bai International Airport is approximately 110 to 120 km from central Ninh Binh. A direct road transfer usually takes around two to three hours, although traffic near Hanoi and multiple passenger pickups can extend the journey.

Noi Bai is the most practical arrival point for most international visitors because it offers the broadest selection of domestic and international flights in northern Vietnam. It is easier to reach from many overseas destinations without adding a separate domestic connection.

1.3. Cat Bi International Airport (HPH): About 135 km from Ninh Binh

Cat Bi suits itineraries combining Ninh Binh with coastal destinations - Source: Pinterest

Cat Bi International Airport serves Hai Phong and lies approximately 135 km from Ninh Binh. Depending on the selected road, traffic and exact destination, the journey may take about two and a half to three hours.

Cat Bi offers domestic flights and a smaller selection of international connections than Noi Bai, so it is rarely the first choice for travelers visiting only Ninh Binh. However, it becomes more convenient when the itinerary also includes Hai Phong, Cat Ba, Lan Ha Bay or nearby coastal attractions.

2. How to Get from Each Airport to Ninh Binh

The best transfer depends on your arrival airport, budget, luggage and final accommodation. Travelers can compare available transportation services in Vietnam before deciding between a private transfer and a shared service. Private cars provide the simplest journey, while shared vehicles and public transport may reduce costs but often require more waiting or an additional connection. 

2.1. From Noi Bai Airport by Private Car, Limousine, Coach or Train via Hanoi

Several transport services connect Noi Bai Airport with Ninh Binh - Source: Pinterest

A private car is the easiest option for families, small groups and travelers carrying large suitcases. The driver can meet you at the terminal and take you directly to Ninh Binh City, Tam Coc, Trang An or your hotel. Shared limousine vans and tourist coaches are more affordable, but their pickup times, meeting points and drop-off areas should be confirmed before payment.

Traveling by train is also possible, but there is no railway station at Noi Bai Airport. You must first travel from the airport to Hanoi Railway Station, then take a southbound train to Ninh Binh Railway Station. The train journey from Hanoi takes a little over two hours on many services, but the airport transfer and waiting time make the complete trip longer.

>>> Read more: How to Get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by Train, Bus or Car 

2.2. From Tho Xuan Airport by Taxi, Limousine or Coach

A prearranged car simplifies the journey from Tho Xuan Airport - Source: Pinterest

A taxi or private transfer is usually the most convenient way to travel from Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh. The journey is relatively direct, and a reserved driver can take you to your accommodation without requiring a change of vehicle in Thanh Hoa City.

Shared limousine and coach options may be available on certain dates, but services departing directly from the airport are less frequent than those at Noi Bai. Budget travelers may need to travel into Thanh Hoa City before taking an intercity coach or train north to Ninh Binh. This route requires more planning and may be inconvenient for visitors with heavy luggage or limited Vietnamese.

2.3. From Cat Bi Airport by Private Transfer, Taxi or Coach

Private transfers offer the simplest route from Cat Bi to Ninh Binh - Source: Pinterest

A private transfer or long distance taxi is the most straightforward option from Cat Bi Airport. It provides direct transportation to Ninh Binh and avoids the need to travel into central Hai Phong to find another vehicle.

Travelers using public transport usually need to take a taxi from the airport to a bus station in Hai Phong, then continue by coach toward Ninh Binh. Some journeys may require an additional connection, so the total travel time can be considerably longer than a private car. If you are visiting Cat Ba first, tourist buses can later take you from the island to Ninh Binh.

>>> Read more: How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, Cat Ba and Other Destinations

2.4. Comparing Transfer Options by Cost, Comfort and Travel Time

Airport transfers vary in cost, comfort and overall convenience - Source: Pinterest

Private transfers offer the highest level of comfort because they provide terminal pickup and direct hotel drop-off. The total fare is higher, but the cost becomes more reasonable when divided among a family or group.

Shared limousines generally provide the best balance between cost and comfort, particularly from Noi Bai Airport. Coaches and trains may cost less, but passengers should include the expense and time needed to reach the departure station. Always compare the complete journey rather than judging an option only by its advertised ticket price.

3. Practical Flight and Transfer Tips for International Travelers

International visitors should consider more than the distance between an airport and Ninh Binh. Flight availability, immigration time, luggage, transfer schedules and the location of the hotel can all affect the actual length and convenience of the journey.

3.1. Choose Noi Bai for More International Flight Connections

Noi Bai offers the broadest flight network in northern Vietnam - Source: Pinterest

Noi Bai is usually the best airport for travelers arriving from outside Vietnam. Its larger international network reduces the need for a domestic connection, which can save time and lower the risk of disruption caused by separate flight bookings.

The airport also provides more onward transport choices than Tho Xuan or Cat Bi. Travelers can choose among private cars, shared limousines, coaches or a connection through central Hanoi. If your itinerary includes sightseeing in Hanoi, spending one or two nights in the capital before traveling south can also create a more comfortable schedule.

>>> Read more: How Far Is It from Hanoi to Ninh Binh? Best Transportation Options

3.2. Consider Tho Xuan Only When a Suitable Domestic Flight Is Available

Tho Xuan works best when a domestic route matches your plans - Source: Pinterest

Tho Xuan can shorten the road journey to Ninh Binh, but the advantage matters only when a suitable flight is available. International travelers would normally need to enter Vietnam through another airport and take a separate domestic flight to Thanh Hoa.

A domestic connection adds check-in, baggage collection and waiting time, so the complete journey may be longer than flying directly to Hanoi. Before selecting Tho Xuan, compare the entire itinerary, including connection time, luggage conditions and the cost of the onward transfer to Ninh Binh.

3.3. Choose Cat Bi When Combining Ninh Binh with Hai Phong or Cat Ba

Cat Bi is practical for trips linking the coast with Ninh Binh - Source: Pinterest

Cat Bi is a useful alternative when Hai Phong, Cat Ba or Lan Ha Bay already forms part of your travel plan. You can explore the coastal area first and then continue to Ninh Binh by tourist bus, coach or private transfer.

If Ninh Binh is your only destination, Cat Bi normally offers fewer advantages than Noi Bai. Its flight network is smaller, while onward public transport may require a transfer in Hai Phong. Check the complete route before booking to ensure a cheaper flight is not offset by a longer or more expensive ground journey.

3.4. Book Flights and Transfers Early and Choose a Morning Arrival When Possible

Advance booking makes airport transfers easier during busy periods - Source: Pinterest

Booking your airport transfer before departure helps ensure that a suitable vehicle is available when you land. Provide the operator with your flight number, terminal, arrival time, passenger count, luggage quantity and exact destination in Ninh Binh.

A morning or early afternoon arrival gives you more flexibility if your flight is delayed or a shared transfer requires waiting. It may also allow you to reach Ninh Binh before evening and check in comfortably. When booking, confirm whether the quoted fare includes airport pickup, tolls and direct drop-off at Tam Coc, Trang An or your hotel.

4. Frequently Asked Questions About the Closest Airport to Ninh Binh Vietnam

4.1. Does Ninh Binh Have Its Own Passenger Airport?

Ninh Binh does not currently have an operational airport serving scheduled passenger flights. Proposals for a new airport have been discussed, but they do not provide a present travel option. Visitors must therefore fly to Tho Xuan, Noi Bai or Cat Bi and continue overland.

4.2. Is There a Direct Train from Noi Bai Airport to Ninh Binh?

There is no direct train from Noi Bai Airport because the airport does not have a railway station. Travelers must first take a bus, taxi or private car to Hanoi Railway Station, then board a train to Ninh Binh. This option suits travelers who enjoy rail travel, but a direct road transfer is usually faster and involves less luggage handling.

4.3. Can a Hotel or Resort Arrange an Airport Transfer to Ninh Binh?

Many hotels, resorts and local travel companies can arrange private airport transfers when requested in advance. Ask for the vehicle type, total price, waiting policy and exact meeting point before confirming. You should also provide your flight details and check whether the driver will take you directly to your accommodation rather than a central drop-off point.

4.4. Can International Visitors Rent a Car and Drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?

International visitors may drive only when they hold documents legally recognized in Vietnam and meet the rental company’s requirements. A foreign driving licence alone may not be sufficient, so travelers should confirm the required licence, international permit and insurance conditions before renting. Because self-drive cars are less accessible to short-term visitors, hiring a car with a driver is usually the simpler option.

Choosing the closest airport to Ninh Binh Vietnam depends on both distance and flight availability. Tho Xuan is geographically nearest, while Noi Bai is usually the most convenient option for international travelers, and Cat Bi suits itineraries that include Hai Phong or Cat Ba. For airport transfers, local tours and personalized travel planning, contact Joytime: Vietnam Travel. Our team can help you arrange a convenient journey and explore Ninh Binh as part of a smooth, memorable trip.