Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Haiphong. Cat Bi International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Haiphong, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Vietnam vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Haiphong is roughly 50 minutes from HPH via Taxi / Grab. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in VND. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From HPH, the Taxi / Grab gets you to Haiphong in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Grab offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Haiphong might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at HPH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Haiphong itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to See and Do in Haiphong
If you head into Haiphong, here are two things worth checking out:
Haiphong Opera House is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Haiphong.
Du Hang Pagoda is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside HPH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- HPH Business Lounge
- HPH Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops
Best Bites Near HPH
For food in Haiphong, local travelers recommend Bánh Äa cua Bà Cụ. If you have time for a second stop, Quán Bún Cá Sóc is another popular pick.
Back at HPH, HPH Terminal Restaurant is the go-to. Phá» Gia Truyá»n HPH rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at HPH
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at HPH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at HPH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Haiphong itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Vietnam that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Haiphong with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Haiphong may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.