When planning a visit to Ha Long Bay – one of Vietnam’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites – many travelers ask the same question: Which is the best airport near Ha Long Bay? This comprehensive guide by AFS Travel explores the main airports that serve the Ha Long Bay area, what makes each one unique, and how you can decide which is the most suitable for your journey.
Flying to Ha Long Bay: Understanding the Basics
Ha Long Bay lies in Quang Ninh Province in northeastern Vietnam. While the bay is world-famous for its emerald waters and limestone islands, it does not have its own airport. Instead, visitors can fly into nearby airports and then transfer to the bay by car or bus.
The three main airports that travelers use are:
- Van Don International Airport (VDO) in Quang Ninh
- Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) in Hai Phong
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi
Each airport near Ha Long Bay has its own advantages depending on your travel style, flight availability, and budget.
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Van Don International Airport – The Closest Gateway
Van Don International Airport, located within Quang Ninh Province itself, is the most convenient choice for those who want to reach Ha Long Bay quickly. Opened in 2018, it is modern, efficient, and designed with travelers in mind. Facilities include self-check-in kiosks, duty-free shopping, and comfortable waiting areas.
The drive from Van Don Airport to Ha Long Bay takes less than an hour, making it the fastest option. Shuttle buses, taxis, and private cars are available, with costs ranging from about 45 to 55 USD. Some airlines even provide complimentary bus transfers to Ha Long City.
Van Don’s main advantage is speed and convenience. The drawback, however, is that it has fewer flight options compared to larger airports. Still, for travelers focused on minimizing travel time, this airport near Ha Long Bay is an excellent choice.
Cat Bi International Airport – Ideal for a Combined Trip
Cat Bi International Airport, situated in Hai Phong, is another strong contender. It is farther from Ha Long Bay than Van Don, but still relatively close, with a transfer time of about 90 minutes by car.
Cat Bi offers good domestic connectivity and a growing number of international flights. Many travelers choose this option when combining Ha Long Bay with a visit to Cat Ba Island or exploring Hai Phong’s coastal attractions. Transfers cost around 35 to 50 USD, making it a slightly cheaper alternative than Van Don.
For those who want to see more than just Ha Long Bay, Cat Bi is the airport that provides flexibility. While it lacks the international scale of Noi Bai or the proximity of Van Don, it balances the two with ease of access to multiple destinations in northern Vietnam.
Noi Bai International Airport – Best for International Visitors
Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi is Vietnam’s second-largest airport and the busiest in the north. Located about 190 kilometers from Ha Long Bay, it requires a transfer of roughly three hours by car. Despite the longer travel time, Noi Bai remains a popular choice for international visitors because it connects to a wide network of global destinations.
Travelers arriving at Noi Bai can easily find limousine buses, private transfers, or taxis heading toward Ha Long Bay. Prices are higher, often between 80 and 120 USD for a private car, but the convenience of frequent flights makes up for the distance.
If you are flying from Europe, North America, or other parts of Asia, Noi Bai is usually your most practical entry point. Many travelers also choose this airport to spend a day or two in Hanoi before continuing on to Ha Long Bay.
Weighing the Advantages of Each Airport
When choosing an airport near Ha Long Bay, it is important to consider more than just distance.
- Van Don International Airport is the closest and fastest option, making it ideal for travelers who want to reach Ha Long Bay without delay.
- Cat Bi International Airport is well-suited for those who want to combine Ha Long Bay with side trips to Hai Phong or Cat Ba Island, offering both convenience and flexibility.
- Noi Bai International Airport is the best choice for international travelers thanks to its extensive flight network and modern facilities, even if it involves a longer road journey.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal itinerary, budget, and whether you prefer speed, variety of flights, or the ability to explore multiple destinations along the way.
Transport Options After Landing
Reaching Ha Long Bay from any of the nearby airports requires a road journey, but there are plenty of transport services to choose from. Private cars offer the most comfort and flexibility, particularly for families or groups. Shuttle buses and shared limousines provide a more budget-friendly option, while taxis are widely available but should be booked through reliable providers.
With AFS Travel, you can arrange your transfer in advance, ensuring peace of mind and a seamless experience from the moment you land.
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Additional Travel Considerations
Beyond the question of which airport near Ha Long Bay to choose, there are other factors worth keeping in mind:
- Seasonal flights: Some airports, especially Van Don, may have seasonal flight schedules. Always check availability before booking.
- Budget vs. convenience: Noi Bai may offer cheaper flights due to its size, even though it requires a longer transfer.
- Nearby attractions: Each airport gives you access to different experiences – Hanoi’s cultural landmarks, Hai Phong’s beaches, or Quang Ninh’s spiritual sites.
By considering these aspects, you can turn your airport choice into part of your overall travel experience.
Final Thoughts
Ha Long Bay may not have its own airport, but with Van Don, Cat Bi, and Noi Bai all within reach, travelers have excellent options. Whether you prioritize speed, international flight availability, or the chance to see more of northern Vietnam, there is an airport near Ha Long Bay that fits your plan.
At AFS Travel, we help you choose the right airport, arrange your transfers, and design itineraries that make the most of your time in Vietnam. No matter which gateway you fly into, your journey to Ha Long Bay will be smooth, memorable, and tailored to your needs.
