

Hanoi Transport Guide: How to Get Around Hanoi

By Tina
July 15, 2026

Getting around Hanoi is easier once you know which transport works best for each area. Walk around the Old Quarter, use Grab for short rides, take buses for low-cost travel, and use the metro for western districts. This Hanoi transport guide covers fares, airport transfers, routes, and simple tips for Filipino travelers.
Hanoi Transport Quick Guide
Transport | Best For | Estimated Fare | What to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
Walking | Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem | Free | Best for attractions that are close together |
Hanoi Metro | Avoiding traffic in western Hanoi | VND 9,000 to 19,000 | Limited coverage but fast and air-conditioned |
Public Bus | Budget travelers | VND 8,000 to 20,000 | Carry small Vietnamese dong notes |
GrabCar | First-time visitors, couples, and families | Shown in the app | Easy booking with an upfront fare |
GrabBike | Solo travelers with light bags | Shown in the app | Fast for short trips but less suitable in rain |
Metered Taxi | Families and travelers with luggage | Around VND 15,000 to 20,000 per kilometer | Use a trusted company and check the meter |
Cyclo | Sightseeing in the Old Quarter | Around VND 100,000 to 150,000 per hour | Agree on the price and duration before riding |
Airport Bus 86 | Airport transfers on a budget | VND 50,000 | Connects Noi Bai Airport with Hanoi Railway Station |
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How to Get from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi
Noi Bai International Airport is around 25 to 30 kilometers from central Hanoi. Travel time is usually 35 to 70 minutes, depending on traffic and your transport choice.
Transport | Estimated Fare | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Airport Bus 86 | VND 50,000, about ₱120 | 50 to 70 minutes | Solo and budget travelers |
Public Bus | VND 12,000 to 20,000 | 60 to 90 minutes | Travelers with light luggage |
GrabCar | VND 250,000 to 350,000 | 35 to 60 minutes | Couples and small groups |
Metered Taxi | VND 350,000 to 450,000 | 35 to 60 minutes | Families and travelers with luggage |
Private Transfer | Depends on vehicle | 35 to 60 minutes | Groups and late-night arrivals |
Airport Bus 86

Bus 86 is one of the easiest low-cost options between Noi Bai Airport and central Hanoi. It serves both airport terminals and ends at Hanoi Railway Station, with stops near central areas such as Hoan Kiem.
The official Noi Bai Airport transport page currently lists the fare at VND 50,000. Airport departures are listed from 7:00 AM to 10:15 PM.
- Buy your ticket on the bus.
- Prepare small Vietnamese dong notes.
- Allow extra time during rush hour.
- Check the nearest stop to your hotel before boarding.
- Bus 86 is more convenient than regular buses when carrying luggage.
Regular Airport Buses
Regular public buses cost less but make more stops. They are better for experienced travelers with light bags.
- Bus 07 connects the airport with Cau Giay.
- Bus 17 travels to Long Bien.
- Bus 90 travels toward Kim Ma.
- Bus 109 connects the airport with My Dinh.
- Bus 68 travels toward Ha Dong.
Grab and Taxi
Grab is convenient because the app shows the estimated fare before you confirm the ride. Airport surcharges may apply and should appear in the booking details. Follow the pickup instructions in the app because Grab vehicles use designated airport pickup points. Grab’s official Hanoi airport guide provides directions for both terminals.
For taxis, use the official taxi area or airport counter. Avoid accepting rides from people who approach you inside the terminal.
Hanoi Metro

Hanoi has two operating metro services, but the network does not yet cover every tourist area. It is most useful for destinations west of the Old Quarter.
Both lines normally operate from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM. On weekdays, trains run more frequently during the morning and evening rush hours. Hanoi Metro’s current timetable and the February 2026 schedule list service every six minutes during peak periods, with longer intervals later in the evening.
Metro Line 2A: Cat Linh to Yen Nghia
Line 2A has 12 elevated stations and connects central-western Hanoi with Ha Dong.
Useful stations include:
- Cat Linh
- Thai Ha
- Lang
- Thuong Dinh
- Ha Dong
- La Khe
- Yen Nghia
Single-journey fares are around VND 9,000 to 19,000, depending on the distance traveled.
Metro Line 3: Nhon to Cau Giay
Line 3 is planned to continue to Hanoi Railway Station. However, only the elevated section between Nhon and Cau Giay is currently open to passengers. The operating section has eight stations.
Useful stations include:
- Nhon
- Phu Dien
- Cau Dien
- Le Duc Tho
- Vietnam National University
- Chua Ha
- Cau Giay
Single-journey fares are around VND 9,000 to 15,000. Do not plan a metro journey from Hanoi Railway Station yet because the underground section is still under development.
How to Use the Hanoi Metro
- Check your route before going to the station.
- Buy a single-journey QR ticket at the counter or through the Hanoi Metro app.
- International Visa cards are supported through the updated ticketing system.
- Keep small cash as a backup.
- Scan your ticket when entering and leaving the station.
- Follow the English signs and announcements.
- Keep your ticket or QR code available until the journey is complete.
A one-day metro ticket costs around VND 40,000. It may be useful if you plan to take several rides on the same day. Current fares are published on the official Hanoi Metro fare page.
Public Buses in Hanoi

Public buses are the cheapest option for longer trips around Hanoi. The network covers the Old Quarter, West Lake, major bus stations, suburban districts, and nearby attractions.
Standard city bus fares range from VND 8,000 to 20,000 depending on the route length. These fares were introduced under a Hanoi People’s Committee decision and are listed by the Vietnam Government Portal.
Tips for Taking Hanoi Buses
- Check the bus number and destination before boarding.
- Prepare small notes to pay the fare.
- Tell the conductor your destination if you are unsure.
- Use Google Maps or BusMap Ha Noi to check routes.
- Keep your phone and wallet secure on crowded buses.
- Press the stop button before your destination.
- Allow extra travel time during rush hour.
Public buses are affordable, but they may be confusing for first-time visitors. Grab is usually easier when you need to reach a specific hotel or attraction.
Grab in Hanoi

Grab is one of the easiest ways for Filipino travelers to get around Hanoi. You can choose GrabCar for comfort or GrabBike for faster solo travel.
GrabCar
GrabCar is suitable for:
- First-time visitors
- Couples
- Families
- Travelers with shopping bags
- Rainy days
- Airport transfers
The app displays the fare before booking, although prices can rise during busy periods, heavy rain, and late at night.
GrabBike

GrabBike is useful for short trips when traffic is heavy. A helmet is provided, but it is best for one passenger with a small bag.
Avoid GrabBike if you have large luggage, are traveling with children, or are uncomfortable riding through busy traffic.
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Taxis in Hanoi

Metered taxis are widely available at the airport, hotels, shopping centers, and tourist attractions. Mai Linh, G7 Taxi, and Xanh SM are commonly used services.
Before starting your journey:
- Check that the meter is running.
- Confirm the destination using Google Maps.
- Take a photo of the vehicle number if needed.
- Avoid taxis without a company name or visible meter.
- Prepare small notes because some drivers may not have change.
For easier price checking, book through an official taxi app or use Grab.
Cyclos in Hanoi

A cyclo is a three-wheeled pedal vehicle mainly used for sightseeing. It is a slow but enjoyable way to see the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Opera House, and nearby streets.
A one-hour ride commonly costs around VND 100,000 to 150,000 per person, but prices vary.
Before riding, confirm:
- The total price
- Whether the price is per person or per cyclo
- The route
- The ride duration
- The final drop-off point
Ask your hotel to arrange the ride if you prefer a fixed and clearly explained price.
Walking Around Hanoi

Train Street area
Walking is the best way to explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem area. Many cafés, food stalls, shops, and attractions are located close together.
Good areas for walking include:
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- French Quarter
- Hanoi Opera House
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- Dong Xuan Market
- Train Street area
Sidewalks may be busy or blocked by parked motorbikes. Walk carefully and watch for vehicles when crossing the road.
Motorbike and Bicycle Rentals

Motorbikes provide more freedom, but Hanoi traffic can be difficult for visitors. Renting one is not recommended unless you are an experienced rider and have the driving documents required in Vietnam.
Bicycles are better for quieter areas such as West Lake. Ask your hotel whether bicycle rental is available and avoid cycling during rush hour.
Useful Hanoi Transport Routes
Route | Recommended Transport | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
Noi Bai Airport to Old Quarter | Bus 86, GrabCar, or taxi | 45 to 70 minutes |
Old Quarter to Hoan Kiem Lake | Walking | 5 to 15 minutes |
Old Quarter to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum | Grab, taxi, or bus | 10 to 20 minutes |
Old Quarter to Temple of Literature | Grab, taxi, or bus | 10 to 20 minutes |
Old Quarter to West Lake | GrabCar, GrabBike, or taxi | 15 to 30 minutes |
Old Quarter to Hanoi Railway Station | Grab, taxi, or walking | 10 to 20 minutes |
Old Quarter to Ha Dong | Grab or Metro Line 2A from Cat Linh | 30 to 50 minutes |
Travel times may be longer during rain and peak-hour traffic.
Secure Your Stay in Hanoi
5 star
Business travel
Family friendly
Hot spring
Gym
Swimming pool
Breakfast
Best Hanoi Transport for Different Travelers
Travel Style | Recommended Transport |
|---|---|
First-time visitors | GrabCar and walking |
Budget travelers | Public bus and metro |
Solo travelers | GrabBike, bus, and walking |
Families with children | GrabCar, 7-seater car, or private transfer |
Travelers with luggage | Taxi, GrabCar, or airport transfer |
Old Quarter sightseeing | Walking, cyclo, or electric buggy |
Avoiding traffic | Metro or GrabBike |
Late-night arrival | Pre-booked transfer, GrabCar, or official taxi |
Tips for Filipino Travelers in Hanoi
- Download Grab and Google Maps before your trip.
- Carry small Vietnamese dong notes for buses and local rides.
- Save your hotel name and address in Vietnamese.
- Avoid peak traffic from around 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
- Leave earlier when traveling to the airport.
- Use the exact pickup pin when booking Grab.
- Ask your hotel to write down destinations that are difficult to pronounce.
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you on crowded transport.
- Check the weather before booking a motorbike ride.
- Confirm cyclo and taxi prices before starting the journey.
FAQs About Hanoi Transport
-
What is the best way to get around Hanoi?
Walking and Grab are the easiest choices for most visitors. Use public buses for low-cost travel and the metro when your destination is close to an operating station. -
Does the Hanoi Metro go to the airport?
No. The metro does not currently connect directly with Noi Bai International Airport. Use Bus 86, a regular airport bus, Grab, a taxi, or a private transfer. -
Is Hanoi public transport expensive?
No. Standard public bus fares start from around VND 8,000, while metro fares start from around VND 9,000. -
How should I pay for transport in Hanoi?
Carry Vietnamese dong for buses, cyclos, and small payments. Grab accepts cash and supported in-app payment methods. The metro supports QR tickets, the Hanoi Metro app, and selected cashless payment methods. -
Is it safe to rent a motorbike in Hanoi?
Hanoi traffic can be difficult for inexperienced riders. First-time visitors should use GrabBike, taxis, buses, or the metro instead of renting a motorbike.
Related products
Hanoi Transport
- 1. Hanoi Transport Quick Guide
- 2. How to Get from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi
- 3. Hanoi Metro
- 4. Public Buses in Hanoi
- 5. Grab in Hanoi
- 6. Taxis in Hanoi
- 7. Cyclos in Hanoi
- 8. Walking Around Hanoi
- 9. Motorbike and Bicycle Rentals
- 10. Useful Hanoi Transport Routes
- 11. Best Hanoi Transport for Different Travelers
- 12. Tips for Filipino Travelers in Hanoi
- 13. FAQs About Hanoi Transport
I’m someone who loves turning real travel experiences into helpful stories. From figuring out transport to planning smooth trips, I share practical tips that help Filipino travelers feel more confident wherever they go.
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