Hanoi Airport Buses: The Most Convenient Way to Reach the City

Traveling between Noi Bai International Airport and Hanoi city center is now easier than ever, thanks to a variety of Hanoi airport bus services. These buses offer an affordable, comfortable, and reliable transportation option, making them a preferred choice for budget-conscious travelers and locals alike.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, understanding the different airport bus options can help you plan a stress-free journey. This guide provides a detailed overview of the types of buses, routes, schedules, fares, and useful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. Overview of Hanoi Airport Buses

• Location: Noi Bai International Airport, Sóc Sơn District, Hanoi
• Operating Hours: Varies by bus line, with most operating from 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM
• Average Fare: 8,000 – 45,000 VND (0.3 – 2 USD)

Why Choose Hanoi Airport Buses?

Hanoi airport buses are not only economical but also provide a comfortable journey with air-conditioned coaches, ample seating, and safe routes. Compared to taxis or ride-hailing services, buses offer a cost-effective alternative without compromising on convenience.

Hanoi airport buses offer an economical and comfortable means of transportation, featuring air-conditioned coaches and ample seating - Photo Source: Facebook Thợ Săn Ảnh Hanoibus

These buses connect Noi Bai Airport with Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter and other key districts, making it easy for passengers to reach their destinations efficiently.

Advantages of Taking Hanoi Airport Buses:

• Cost-Effective: Fares are significantly lower than taxis or ride-hailing services.
• Eco-Friendly: Buses reduce the carbon footprint by accommodating multiple passengers in a single trip.
• Convenience: Regular departure schedules ensure minimal wait times.

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable way to get from the airport to Hanoi’s city center, airport buses are your best option.ư

2. Popular Hanoi Airport Bus Options

Bus 86 – Express Bus to Hanoi City Center

• Route: Noi Bai Airport → Long Bien → Hanoi Train Station
• Operating Hours: 5:10 AM – 10:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 25 – 30 minutes
• Fare: 45,000 VND (~2 USD)

Bus 86 is the most popular choice for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its direct route between Noi Bai Airport and Hanoi’s city center. It stops at notable locations, including Long Bien Bridge, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Hanoi Train Station, making it convenient for travelers heading to the Old Quarter.

Bus 86 is renowned for its direct route from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi's city center - Photo Source: Bus Express 86 - Photo Source: Fanpage Tuyến xe buýt chất lượng cao 86

Key Features:

• Spacious and air-conditioned coaches
• Dedicated luggage storage space
• English-speaking staff on board

Why Choose Bus 86?

If you’re staying in the Old Quarter or need to connect to the Hanoi Train Station, Bus 86 is the fastest and most comfortable option. With its well-maintained coaches and courteous staff, it ensures a stress-free journey for travelers.

Bus 07 – Affordable and Frequent Option

• Route: Noi Bai Airport → Cau Giay Bus Station
• Operating Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Frequency: Every 15 – 20 minutes
• Fare: 8,000 VND (~0.3 USD)

Bus 07 is an ideal choice for budget travelers. Though it’s slower compared to Bus 86, it serves a larger number of stops, providing better connectivity for passengers heading to residential areas or further districts.

Key Features:

• Low-cost option for budget-conscious travelers
• Frequent departures ensuring minimal wait times
• Basic but comfortable seating

Why Choose Bus 07?

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to reach Hanoi from the airport, Bus 07 is your best bet. It covers a wide range of stops, making it suitable for passengers heading to less central locations.

Bus 17 – Connection to Long Bien and Gia Lam

• Route: Noi Bai Airport → Long Bien → Gia Lam Bus Station
• Operating Hours: 5:00 AM – 8:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 15 – 20 minutes
• Fare: 9,000 VND (~0.4 USD)

Bus 17 connects Noi Bai Airport to Long Bien and Gia Lam Bus Station, making it a convenient choice for passengers looking to continue their journey to other provinces or neighboring towns.

Key Features:

• Stops at Gia Lam Bus Station for easy connections to northern provinces
• Budget-friendly fare
• Reliable service with frequent intervals

Why Choose Bus 17?

Bus 17 is ideal if you’re planning to travel beyond Hanoi after arriving at Noi Bai Airport. Its connection to Gia Lam Bus Station ensures easy access to intercity buses heading to northern provinces.

Private Shuttle Buses by Airlines

• Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways
• Route: Noi Bai Airport → Designated Drop-off Points in Hanoi
• Operating Hours: Based on flight schedules
• Fare: 40,000 – 50,000 VND (~1.7 – 2.1 USD)

For passengers flying with major airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways, private shuttle buses offer a direct and hassle-free connection between Noi Bai Airport and various locations in Hanoi.

Key Features:

• Exclusive service for airline passengers
• Coordinated with flight arrival and departure times
• Comfortable seating and luggage space

Why Choose Private Shuttle Buses?

If you prefer a seamless transition from the airport to your destination, private shuttle buses offered by airlines ensure timely departures that align with your flight schedule.

3. Bus Stops and Drop-off Points

Key Drop-off Points for Bus 86

• Hanoi Train Station: Ideal for travelers continuing their journey by train.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: Perfect for those staying in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• Long Bien Bus Station: Great for passengers connecting to other bus routes.

Bus 86, for instance, services prominent locations, facilitating easy access to Hanoi's main attractions - Photo Source: Website tienphong.vn

Key Stops for Bus 07 and Bus 17

• Cau Giay Bus Station: A major transit hub with connections to local buses.
• Gia Lam Bus Station: Convenient for travelers heading to nearby provinces.

4. Hanoi Airport Bus Timetable and Schedule

Bus 86 Timetable

• First Departure from Noi Bai Airport: 5:10 AM
• Last Departure from Noi Bai Airport: 10:30 PM
• Frequency: Every 25 – 30 minutes

Most buses operate from early morning until late evening, with regular intervals ensuring minimal wait times - Photo Source: Fanpage Bus Express 86 - Tuyến xe buýt chất lượng cao 86

Bus 07 and Bus 17 Timetable

• First Departure: 5:00 AM
• Last Departure: 9:00 PM (Bus 07), 8:30 PM (Bus 17)
• Frequency: Every 15 – 20 minutes

Pro Tip: Plan your journey ahead of time to align your arrival or departure with the bus schedule, minimizing wait times and ensuring a smooth transfer.

5. Tips for a Smooth Airport Bus Experience

Plan Your Journey in Advance

Check the bus schedule and choose the most suitable option based on your arrival or departure time. Keep in mind that buses may be busier during peak hours, so allow extra time for your journey.

Have Small Change Ready

Bus fares are typically paid in cash, so be prepared with small denominations of Vietnamese Dong (VND) to facilitate a smooth payment process.

To enhance your bus experience, have small change ready for fares - Photo Source: Fanpage Bus Express 86 - Tuyến xe buýt chất lượng cao 86

Secure Your Belongings

While Hanoi airport buses are generally safe, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your luggage and personal belongings, particularly during peak hours.

Identify Your Drop-off Point

Familiarize yourself with the stops along the bus route to avoid missing your destination. Bus 86, for example, stops at several iconic landmarks in Hanoi.

After arriving in the city, consider hanoi motorbike rent as a flexible way to explore further.

6. Why Choose Hanoi Airport Buses?

Cost-Effective

With fares ranging from 8,000 to 45,000 VND (0.3 – 2 USD), Hanoi airport buses provide a budget-friendly alternative to taxis or ride-hailing services.

The money you save on transportation can then be used to experience other aspects of Hanoi, such as its vibrant culinary scene, which includes opportunities for fine dining in hanoi.

Reliable and Safe

Hanoi airport buses operate on fixed schedules, ensuring that passengers reach their destinations safely and on time.

Opting for airport buses is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly - Photo Source: website dienbientv.vn

Eco-Friendly Travel

By opting for public transportation, travelers can contribute to reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainable travel practices.

7. Alternative Transportation Options

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

If you prefer a more private and faster journey, taxis and Grab rides are widely available at Noi Bai Airport. However, these options are significantly more expensive, with fares ranging from 300,000 to 400,000 VND (12 – 17 USD).

For those seeking more private or faster transportation, taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available - Fanpage: Xe Sân Bay Hà Nội - Nội Bài Airport

Private Transfers

For a more luxurious experience, private car transfers can be pre-booked, offering door-to-door service with added comfort and flexibility.

Why Consider Alternatives?

While buses offer affordability, taxis and private transfers provide a higher level of convenience, making them ideal for travelers with heavy luggage or those who prefer a quicker transfer.

8. Future Improvements and Plans for Hanoi Airport Buses

Expanding Routes and Schedules

To meet the growing demand for affordable airport transfers, authorities plan to introduce new routes that connect Noi Bai Airport to a wider range of districts and suburban areas in Hanoi.

Plans are underway to expand bus routes, implement digital ticketing systems - Photo Source: website vneconomy.vn

Digital Ticketing Systems

Future improvements include implementing digital ticketing systems to enhance passenger convenience and minimize transaction times.

Upgraded Bus Stops

Plans are underway to improve bus stop infrastructure, making it easier for passengers to identify pickup points and ensuring better comfort while waiting for buses.

Why Hanoi Airport Buses Are the Best Choice

• Affordable Prices: Budget-friendly fares that suit all travelers.
• Frequent and Reliable: Multiple bus options with regular departures.
• Convenient Drop-off Points: Easy access to major landmarks and transit hubs.

Whether you’re arriving in Hanoi for the first time or a frequent visitor, Hanoi airport buses offer an efficient and cost-effective way to explore the vibrant capital of Vietnam. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey!