Flights to Halong Bay: Your ultimate guide to a scenic journey

A UNESCO World Heritage site - Halong Bay, is one of Vietnam's most captivating destinations. Known for its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and serene islands, Halong Bay is a must-see for any traveler visiting Southeast Asia. If you're planning a trip to this natural wonder, finding the best flights to Halong Bay is a critical part of your journey. This guide will help you navigate the process of booking flights, tips for getting to Halong Bay, and what to expect upon arrival.

Why visit Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is a picturesque paradise that attracts tourists from around the world. Located in the north of Vietnam, it boasts over 1,600 islands and islets, making it one of the most iconic and breathtaking landscapes globally. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the bay through various activities. Cruising through its towering limestone karsts is a must, offering stunning views that are best seen from a boat.

For those seeking adventure, kayaking and swimming allow you to explore hidden caves and pristine beaches, offering an up-close look at the area's unique features. Additionally, Halong Bay offers a rich cultural experience where you can discover local fishing villages and indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a cultural explorer, Halong Bay provides something special for every traveler.

Where to find flights to Halong Bay?

While Halong Bay itself does not have an airport, there are several airports nearby that serve as gateways to the region. The two primary airports you can consider are:

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi

Hanoi is the nearest major city to Halong Bay and serves as the most common starting point for visitors traveling to the bay. Located approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Halong Bay, Hanoi is well-connected to various international and domestic destinations, making it a convenient base for travelers.

Flight options: Hanoi is accessible via direct flights from many major international cities, such as Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, and Seoul. Domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and other Vietnamese cities are frequent.
Getting from Hanoi to Halong Bay: Once you arrive at Noi Bai Airport, you can take a shuttle bus, private car, or a domestic flight to the nearest seaport. The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes about 2.5-3 hours by car.

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) in Hai Phong

Cat Bi International Airport is located in Hai Phong, a port city that is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Halong Bay. While it offers fewer international flights, it can be a good alternative for those flying domestically from within Vietnam.

Flight options: Cat Bi primarily handles flights from Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. There are fewer international connections, but it can be a more direct route to Halong Bay.
Getting from Hai Phong to Halong Bay: The drive from Cat Bi Airport to Halong Bay takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a more convenient option if you're already in Vietnam.

Vân Đồn International Airport (VDO)

Vân Đồn is a newly established international airport in Quảng Ninh, located near Halong Bay. It’s a great option for travelers who prefer to fly closer to their destination without having to travel far from the major airports.

Flight options: Vân Đồn mainly serves domestic flights, particularly from Hanoi (Vân Đồn is about 155 km from Hanoi). Flights from other major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang are expected to increase as the airport continues to grow.
Getting from the airport to Halong Bay: From Vân Đồn, you can easily reach Halong Bay in about 30-45 minutes by taxi or shuttle service. This is very convenient and saves you time compared to traveling from Hanoi or Hai Phong.

Advantages: Choosing to fly into Vân Đồn significantly reduces travel time to Halong Bay, especially if you’re looking to avoid the longer drive from Hanoi or Hai Phong. The airport is becoming increasingly popular and is expected to continue growing in the coming years.

Tips for booking flights to Halong Bay

To get the best deals on flights to Halong Bay, here are some tips that can help:

Book early

Flight prices to Vietnam can fluctuate, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking your flight well in advance gives you the best chance to secure lower prices and better flight options.

Consider connecting flights

If direct flights to Hanoi or Hai Phong are expensive, consider booking connecting flights through major Southeast Asian hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. This may offer you more flexibility and better fares.

Look for deals and promotions

Several airlines offer discounts or package deals for travelers flying to Hanoi or Hai Phong. Keep an eye out for special promotions and consider subscribing to email newsletters from airlines or travel agencies for exclusive offers.

Check alternative airports

Sometimes, flying into a nearby airport like Hanoi or Hai Phong may be more affordable than flying directly to a city closer to Halong Bay. If you're flexible with your travel plans, look into options that connect to either of these airports.

Use a flight comparison tool

Make use of flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to compare prices from different airlines. These tools will help you identify the best routes and deals to Hanoi or Hai Phong, your main gateways to Halong Bay.

How to get from Hanoi or Hai Phong to Halong Bay

Once you've arrived in Hanoi or Hai Phong, you’ll need to make your way to Halong Bay. Here are your options:

Private car or taxi

One of the most comfortable ways to reach Halong Bay is by private car or taxi. This allows you to enjoy a more flexible travel schedule and provides door-to-door service. Many travel agencies in Hanoi and Hai Phong offer private transfer services, which can be booked in advance or upon arrival.

Shuttle bus services

Several companies offer shuttle bus services from Hanoi to Halong Bay, with several pick-up points in Hanoi city. These buses are affordable and offer a convenient way to reach your destination, though the journey may take a bit longer (about 4-5 hours).

Domestic flights

In addition to ground transportation, there are also domestic flights that can take you from Hanoi to Halong Bay. While this option is less common, it can be faster if you're short on time. The flight duration is around 45 minutes, followed by a short drive from the airport to the port.

Cruise or boat tour

Many travelers opt to take a cruise from Hanoi or Hai Phong to Halong Bay. This can be a scenic and memorable way to experience the region, as you’ll be cruising the Gulf of Tonkin's pristine waters, passing through thousands of islands along the way.

Best time to visit Halong Bay

The ideal time to visit Halong Bay is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, offering perfect conditions for sightseeing, cruising, and outdoor activities. Avoid traveling during the summer months (June to August) when it can get hot and humid, and the region experiences heavy rainfall.

Whether you're flying from abroad or exploring Vietnam, flights to Halong Bay will get you closer to one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Make sure to plan ahead and choose the best airport and travel option that suits your itinerary. Once you arrive, get ready to experience Halong Bay's beauty and charm firsthand. With the right preparation, your journey to Halong Bay will be unforgettable!