Hanoi Noi Bai Layover Guide (HAN)

What are you looking for in HAN?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Hanoi Airport (HAN) is an international airport located in Soc Son District, about 27 km (17 miles) from downtown Hanoi. The airport officially opened in 1978. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and one of its most historic and culturally rich cities. Known for its centuries-old architecture, vibrant street life, and unique blend of East and West, Hanoi offers a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity for travelers and residents alike.

Can you leave Hanoi Airport (HAN) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Yes, you can leave Hanoi Airport (HAN) during a layover. Most travelers need a visa, but citizens of certain countries qualify for visa exemption or e-visas. Check your eligibility before exiting immigration (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Hoan Kiem Lake Experience the heart of Hanoi by strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, visiting Ngoc Son Temple, watching locals practice tai chi at sunrise, and exploring historic streets for vibrant Vietnamese culture. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Airport Express Bus 86 to Kim Ma then taxi (45–60 min) or taxi direct (~30 min))
• Old Quarter Walking Tour Take a walking tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, discovering ancient temples, colonial architecture, bustling street markets, hidden coffee shops, and flavorful street food stalls while learning local history and culture. (Time required: 3 hours. / Airport to here: Airport Express Bus 86 to Kim Ma then 10 min walk or taxi direct (~30 min))
• Temple of Literature Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, admiring its serene courtyards, ornate red gates, tranquil gardens while uncovering ancient Confucian traditions and rich scholarly achievements from the Ly dynasty. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Bus 86 to Kim Ma then taxi (45 min) or taxi direct (~25 min))
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Discover the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, exploring the historic Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s beautiful stilt house, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda while learning about Vietnam’s revolutionary leader’s life. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Bus 68 to Ba Dinh then 5 min walk (60–70 min) or taxi (~30 min))
• Thang Long Water Puppet Show Witness a Thang Long Water Puppet show at a historic stage, enjoying colorful puppets performing rich folklore tales accompanied by live music, providing insight into Vietnamese art, culture, and legends. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Bus 86 to Kim Ma then taxi (45–60 min) or taxi direct (~30 min))
• Hanoi Train Street Visit Hanoi’s famous Train Street, observing a locomotive passing through narrow alleyways lined with cafes; admire close-up views, snap photos, and experience the thrill of rail life squeezed between houses. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: Bus 86 to Long Bien then walk 15 min (60 min) or taxi (~30 min))
• Egg Coffee at Cafe Giang Savor traditional egg coffee at Cafe Giang, tasting creamy yolk-infused espresso atop meringue; learn about Hanoi’s unique brewing methods from expert baristas in a historic venue near the Old Quarter. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Bus 86 to Kim Ma then bus 33 to Hang Gai (60 min) or taxi direct (~30 min))
• West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda Explore West Lake and the Tran Quoc Pagoda, wandering paths, admiring ancient Buddhist architecture on an island, enjoying waterfront views of lotus blooms, and discovering serene temples nestled in greenery. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Bus 86 to Long Bien then bus 34 to Tay Ho (75 min) or taxi (~40 min))

Things to Do in Hanoi Airport (HAN)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Hanoi Airport (HAN) offers several lounges in both Domestic and International terminals, including Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge and Song Hong Business Lounge. Access is available for business class travelers or via paid entry. Lounges provide comfortable seating, food, beverages, showers, and Wi-Fi—ideal for relaxing during a layover or delay. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
For passengers needing rest near the airport, several hotels are within a 5–10 minute drive, such as VATC SleepPod (right inside the terminal), New Airport Hotel, and Paragon Noi Bai Hotel. They offer free shuttles, hourly or overnight rates, and convenient amenities for transit travelers or early departures. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Hanoi Airport has limited dedicated rest areas, but travelers can use VATC SleepPods located in Terminal 2 for a private sleep option. Otherwise, benches and seating areas are available, though often without padding. Overnight sleepers should bring a blanket or eye mask, as lighting and announcements stay active.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Hanoi Airport. To connect, select the “Noi Bai Airport Free Wi-Fi” network and follow a brief login or ad prompt. Speeds are generally decent for browsing or messaging. Charging outlets are scattered around seating zones and near some gates in both terminals.

SIM/eSIM Card: Mobile SIM cards from Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone are available at kiosks in both arrival halls. Packages typically include data, calling, and texting options at affordable prices. eSIM options are available from providers online. Be sure to bring your passport for SIM card registration upon purchase. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Metered taxis are available outside the arrivals area. Reliable companies include Mai Linh and Taxi Group. Always confirm the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand (approx. 350,000–450,000 VND to central Hanoi). Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also a convenient and often cheaper alternative.

Train: There is no direct train connection from Hanoi Airport. To reach the train station (Hanoi Railway Station), travelers must take a taxi or bus to the city center (about 30–45 minutes). From there, trains connect to destinations like Sapa, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. (more info)

Bus: Several public buses serve Hanoi Airport, including Bus 86 (an express bus to downtown), Bus 07, and Bus 17. Bus 86 is ideal for tourists, connecting to major sites and Hanoi Railway Station. Fares range from 9,000–45,000 VND. Buses depart frequently from terminals. (more info)

Shuttle: Minibus and shuttle vans run by airlines and private operators are available outside arrivals, especially Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar. These services are affordable and run to various downtown stops or hotels. Booking can be made on arrival or in advance online for a more seamless transfer.

Car rentals: Car rental desks are located in the arrivals area, offering self-drive or chauffeur services. Providers include local and international companies. Booking in advance is advised, and an international driving permit is typically required. Traffic in Hanoi can be hectic, so many visitors prefer rentals with a driver. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Noi Bai Airport provides short-term and long-term parking options near both terminals. Rates are calculated hourly or daily, with designated lots for cars, motorbikes, and buses. Signage is in Vietnamese and English. Payment can be made by cash or card at automated machines or parking booths.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Luggage storage services are available in Terminal 2, typically at the left-luggage counters near the arrivals area. Rates are charged per hour or per day depending on bag size. Facilities are secure and allow travelers to explore the city luggage-free during long layovers or delays. Ask ChatGPT » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Hanoi Airport (HAN) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks