For travelers with a layover in Hanoi, the proximity of HAN to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 120 minutes via Bus 86, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of HAN:
- Can you legally enter Vietnam? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 120-minute journey each way by Bus 86, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the VND. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Spend Your Time in Hanoi
For a layover visit to Hanoi, we’d suggest Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple and Hanoi Old Quarter Walk. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside HAN, you can spend time at Song Hong Lounge (Terminal 2) or try VATC SleepPod (Terminal 1). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near HAN
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Hanoi: Chả Cá ThÄng Long and Phá» Gia Truyá»n Bát Äà n. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Phá» 24 (Terminal 2) or Burger King (Terminal 2). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting from HAN to Hanoi
You have two main options for getting from Noi Bai International Airport into town:
- Bus 86: About 120 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 140 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to Budget for Your Hanoi Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Hanoi layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Noi Bai International Airport
Luggage storage is available at Terminal 2, level 1 (Arrivals) and Terminal 1, level 2 (Departures). Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Hanoi.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and HAN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Hanoi and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 HAN.
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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Hanoi doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 120 minutes from HAN, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.