3 Airports Near Halong Bay
Halong Bay, located in northern Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Every year, millions of tourists from around the globe flock to Halong Bay, eager to experience its unique beauty. Consequently, as a major tourist destination, it is essential for travelers to have easy access to Halong Bay to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Access to suitable airports is crucial for anyone planning a trip to Halong Bay. Fortunately, well-connected airports enable tourists to easily reach this natural wonder and embark on their Halong Bay cruise journey. In this post, we will explore the three airports that serve as gateways to Halong Bay. Each airport offers its own set of advantages and transportation options, thereby facilitating a seamless journey to this breathtaking location.
Now, let’s delve into these three airports near Halong Bay and discover the best options for your unforgettable adventure!
1. Cat Bi International Airport
First, Cat Bi Airport provides the easiest access to Halong Bay. Specifically, it is located about 60 kilometers from the bay. Thus, Cat Bi International Airport acts as a convenient gateway for both domestic and international travelers. Moreover, it is situated in Hai Phong City, making it ideal for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Year of Launch: 2016
- Serves: Hai Phong, Halong City
- Location: Le Hong Phong Street, Thanh To Ward, Hai An District, Hai Phong City
Airlines and Destinations
Several airlines operate flights to and from Cat Bi Airport. These include Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air. Additionally, they connect to major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as various international destinations. Notably:
Bamboo Airways: Buon Ma Thuot, Can Tho, Con Dao, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Pleiku, Quy Nhon
Pacific Airlines: Ho Chi Minh City
Ruili Airlines: Kunming
VietJet Air: Buon Ma Thuot, Can Tho, Da Lat, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Pleiku, Quy Nhon, Seoul-Incheon
Vietnam Airlines: Buon Ma Thuot, Can Tho, Da Lat, Da Nang, Dien Bien Phu, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc
How to Get from Cat Bi International Airport to Halong Bay
To reach Halong Bay from Cat Bi International Airport, travelers can choose various transportation modes. Options include private cars, taxis, and shuttle buses. Furthermore, private car hire services offer a comfortable option for direct transfers. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Notably, the costs for these services typically range between 35 and 50 USD.
2. Van Don International Airport: The Nearest Airport to Halong Bay
Next, Van Don International Airport, also known as Ha Long Airport, is the newest commercial airport in Vietnam. As Vietnam’s first privately operated airport, it serves both domestic and international flights. Conveniently nestled in the scenic Van Don District, it is the closest airport to Halong Bay, located just 50 kilometers away, making it an express ticket to Halong Bay’s wonders.
- Year of Launch: 2018
- Serves: Ha Long, Van Don Economic Zone
- Location: Doan Ket, Van Don, Quang Ninh Province
Airlines and Destinations
Van Don International Airport serves as a hub for Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines, and Bamboo Airways, offering regional routes to cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Danang. Specifically:
Bamboo Airways: Ho Chi Minh City
VietJet Air: Can Tho, Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam Airlines: Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City; Charter: Seoul-Incheon
How to Get from Van Don International Airport to Halong Bay
Visitors receive free bus tickets to Ha Long City and Yen Tu, valid for 30 days from the flight date. Additionally, public shuttle buses operate every 90 minutes from Van Don International Airport to Halong City. For those preferring alternative modes of transportation, rental vehicles, taxis, and shuttle buses are available, with prices ranging from 45 to 55 USD for a one-way transfer. Thanks to the new Ha Long – Van Don Expressway, traveling to Halong Bay is now much faster and easier.
3. Noi Bai International Airport
Lastly, Noi Bai International Airport, located in Hanoi, remains the most popular choice among visitors to Halong Bay. Although it is approximately 190 kilometers away, being the second-largest transport hub in Vietnam, it offers extensive flight options, making it a favored choice.
- Year of Launch: 2001
- Serves: Hanoi & Northern Vietnam
- Location: Phu Minh, Soc Son District, Hanoi City
Airlines and Destinations
Noi Bai International Airport is a significant international gateway, linking Hanoi to numerous destinations worldwide. Travelers can fly to international cities such as Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and many more. Moreover, it provides regular domestic flights to popular Vietnamese destinations like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Da Lat.
How to Get from Noi Bai International Airport to Halong Bay
From the airport, visitors can either opt for buses or taxis, considering the distance of 190 km. Alternatively, travelers may choose private car hire, shuttle bus services, or pre-booked tours for more convenient transfers. Typically, the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Furthermore, the costs for these transportation options can vary significantly.
Which Airport Suits You Best?
Ultimately, all three airports have their advantages and disadvantages, making it important to carefully consider your options before making a decision. To assist you in making an informed choice, we will outline the pros and cons of each airport in proximity to Halong Bay.
Ready for Your Memorable Halong Bay Trip?
In conclusion, while planning your trip to the stunning Halong Bay, it is essential to examine the airports that provide access to this natural marvel. Cat Bi Airport is conveniently close, Van Don Airport boasts modern facilities, and Noi Bai Airport offers a wide range of airline options.
Each airport presents its unique benefits and drawbacks; therefore, these factors should be carefully considered based on personal preferences and priorities.
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