Vietnam, a land of breathtaking beauty and captivating culture, welcomes travelers from across the globe, and a smooth arrival and departure experience is essential for a successful journey. While the country boasts a robust network of airports, understanding the key international airports in Vietnam is vital for planning your travel itinerary, particularly for Indian tourists. Though Vietnam has 10 airports that are designated as “international,” only five currently serve most international flights. This guide will delve into the details of these primary international gateways, providing essential information on their facilities, services, transportation options, and helping you choose the best airport to begin your exploration of Vietnam.
Vietnam’s air hubs: A gateway to diverse experiences
Vietnam boasts a growing aviation sector, with a total of 10 airports officially designated as international. However, in terms of serving the majority of international flights, five airports stand out as the main gateways for most visitors. These key hubs, strategically located across the country, provide access to a diverse range of destinations, from the bustling cities of the north to the serene beaches of the south.
The major airports are: Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), Can Tho International Airport (Can Tho), Danang International Airport (Danang), Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong), Phu Bai International Airport (Huế), Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang), Phu Quoc International Airport (Phu Quoc), Van Don International Airport (Quang Ninh), and Vinh International Airport (Vinh).
However, only the first five are currently served by most international airlines, including those offering flights from India. Understanding the locations of these five key airports will make it much easier to plan your flights based on your desired destinations.
READ MORE: A Guide to Visas for Indian Tourists
Navigating the gateways: key International Airports in Vietnam
Noi Bai International Airports (HAN – Hanoi)
Located near Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, Noi Bai International Airport serves as the primary international gateway to Northern Vietnam. This busy airport, reflecting Hanoi’s status as a major commercial and cultural center, handles a substantial volume of both international and domestic flights.
Layout
The airport has separate international and domestic terminals, offering a modern and efficient travel experience. The international terminal (Terminal 2) features a range of amenities for international travelers. The domestic terminal (Terminal 1) handles domestic flights and has numerous connecting flights.
Facilities and services
Noi Bai Airport provides a wide range of facilities and services, including check-in counters, efficient baggage handling services, immigration and customs processing, currency exchange bureaus, ATMs, a variety of restaurants and cafes, duty-free shops, and transportation options. The airport also provides free WiFi access to its travelers.
Transportation to Hanoi
Options for transportation to the city center include taxis, ride-hailing services, and airport buses. Taxis provide a convenient but often more expensive option. Ride-hailing services, such as Grab, offer a more cost-effective and transparent alternative. Airport buses, the most economical option, also connect the airport with various points in the city.
Best time to arrive
Allow ample time for immigration and customs procedures, especially during peak hours. If traveling during a holiday or peak season, you should consider that the lines at immigration and customs may be significantly longer.
Tan Son Nhat International Airports (SGN – Ho Chi Minh City)
Located near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest metropolis and its economic hub, Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport is the primary gateway to southern Vietnam. This airport, which also handles a large volume of domestic flights, serves as an important hub for both business and tourism travelers.
Layout
The airport has separate international and domestic terminals, with Terminal 2 serving international flights, and Terminal 1 serving domestic. The airport also has several VIP lounges, available for select airline customers.
Facilities and services
Tan Son Nhat Airport provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities, including check-in counters, baggage handling, immigration and customs clearance, currency exchange bureaus, ATMs, a variety of restaurants and cafes, duty-free shops, and transportation options. There is also free WiFi available for customers.
Transportation to Ho Chi Minh City
Options for traveling to the city center include taxis, ride-hailing services, and airport buses. Taxis are readily available, but it’s important to use reputable taxi companies. Ride-hailing apps are a more convenient option, offering transparent pricing and a more flexible service. Airport buses offer an economical option, connecting the airport with various points in the city.
Best time to arrive
You should allow extra time for immigration and customs procedures if you are traveling at peak hours. Be aware that there is significant traffic in and around Ho Chi Minh City.
Danang International Airport (DAD – Danang)
Danang International Airport, located in the coastal city of Danang, serves as a major gateway for tourists traveling to central Vietnam. The airport provides convenient access to Danang, Hoi An, Hue, and other nearby popular destinations.
Layout
The airport features a modern international terminal (Terminal 2) that handles international flights, as well as a domestic terminal (Terminal 1). The international terminal is designed to accommodate a growing number of travelers.
Facilities and services
The airport offers a range of services including check-in counters, baggage handling, immigration and customs clearance, currency exchange bureaus, ATMs, restaurants and cafes, duty-free shops, and transportation options. The airport also offers free WiFi access to its customers.
Transportation to Danang
Options to travel to the city center include taxis, ride-hailing services, and shuttle buses. Taxis are widely available at the airport and provide the most direct route to the city center. Ride-hailing apps, such as Grab, offer a more flexible option, with transparent pricing and convenient bookings. Shuttle buses are also available, providing a more affordable option.
Best time to arrive
Be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours, and allow yourself ample time for immigration and other airport procedures.
Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR – Nha Trang)
Located near the popular beach resort city of Nha Trang, Cam Ranh International Airport serves as the main gateway for tourists to Nha Trang and surrounding coastal areas. It provides convenient access to the beautiful beaches and the various resorts along the coast.
Layout
The airport features separate terminals for domestic and international flights, offering a modern and efficient travel experience.
Facilities and services
The airport provides a range of services such as check-in counters, baggage handling, immigration and customs, currency exchange facilities, ATMs, restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, and transportation options. The airport provides free Wi-Fi, and several shops offering gifts and souvenirs.
Transportation to Nha Trang
Transportation options to the city center include taxis, ride-hailing services, and airport buses. Taxis are the most convenient option, while airport buses, the more affordable alternative, connect the airport with various points in the city. Ride-hailing apps also provide a flexible option, often with more transparent pricing.
Best time to arrive
Allow extra time for immigration procedures, particularly during peak travel periods.
Phu Quoc International Airports (PQC – Phu Quoc Island)
Phu Quoc International Airport, located on Phu Quoc Island, serves as the main gateway to this island paradise, welcoming both domestic and international visitors. This modern airport facilitates access to the island’s many resorts and attractions.
Layout
The airport has both a domestic and international terminal, although the international terminal handles most of the larger flight arrivals from major international hubs.
Facilities and services
The airport provides a variety of services and facilities, including check-in counters, baggage handling, immigration and customs, currency exchange bureaus, ATMs, restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, and transportation options. The airport also has access to free WiFi.
Transportation to Island Destinations
Transportation options to various resorts and areas on the island include taxis, ride-hailing services, and shuttle buses operated by resorts. Be sure to confirm the transportation options for your specific accommodation before your arrival.
Best time to arrive
During peak season and holidays, you should allow extra time for airport procedures.
Choosing the right airport: A matter of destination
While Vietnam has 10 international airports, most international flights are concentrated in just five. Therefore, when choosing the best airport for your trip, you should consider your desired destinations and plan your flights accordingly.
- Northern Vietnam: For travelers exploring Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and other destinations in northern Vietnam, Nội Bài International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi is the most convenient option.
- Southern Vietnam: For exploring Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island, and other areas in southern Vietnam, Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City is the most logical option.
- Central Vietnam: Danang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang is the primary gateway for travelers heading to the central region, and specifically the coastal city of Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue. Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) is the airport most suited for those traveling to Nha Trang.
- Phu Quoc Island: For those traveling specifically to the island, Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) on Phu Quoc Island is the most direct and most convenient route.
Navigating arrival and departure: Key considerations
- Immigration and customs: Be prepared for immigration and customs procedures upon arrival, including presenting your passport and visa, and completing necessary forms. Follow the instructions of airport staff, and have all required documents ready and accessible.
- Baggage handling: Check the location of the baggage claim area upon arrival, and be prepared to wait for your bags to be delivered to the conveyor belt. Contact your airline immediately in case of any issues with your baggage.
- Currency exchange: Exchange a small amount of your currency at the airport exchange bureaus for immediate expenses but be aware that the rates are usually less favorable than banks or reputable money changers. If possible, use your bank card to withdraw from the ATM rather than bringing large quantities of cash with you, and exchange larger quantities once you reach your destination.
- Transportation options: Plan your transportation from the airport in advance, booking airport transfers or arranging taxis, ride-hailing services, or using the bus service.
READ MORE: Where are the best places for Vietnamese currency exchange?
Practical tips for Indian tourists
- Visa on arrival: If you have a visa on arrival approval letter, prepare all of the necessary documentation, including your passport, pre-approval letter, filled out application form, passport photographs, and cash for the stamping fee.
- Pre-booked services: Booking airport transfers in advance is a good idea for minimizing potential confusion and ensuring a smooth arrival.
- Mobile data: Consider purchasing a local SIM card with data or using WiFi at the airport to connect with your family and to navigate to your destination.
- Be prepared: Always carry essential travel documents, including your passport, visa, flight tickets, and travel insurance information, making sure they are easy to access at all times.
Conclusion
Understanding the key international airports in Vietnam, their facilities, transportation options, and any specific requirements is an essential step in planning a smooth and successful trip. By preparing well and being aware of the various procedures, Indian tourists can navigate these gateways with confidence, embarking on an unforgettable journey through this captivating country. These airports are more than just transit points, they represent your first step into the welcoming embrace of Vietnam, so be sure to plan ahead and prepare for your arrival.