Airport Pickup & Transfer in Vietnam
Airport pickup and transfer services offer a safe, convenient, and efficient way to travel between the airport and your hotel or final destination in Vietnam. Pre-arranged transfers help travelers avoid long taxi lines, language barriers, and pricing confusion—especially after long international flights.
This service is particularly useful for first-time visitors, families, business travelers, and those arriving late at night.
Major Airports & Tourist Gateways
Airport transfer services are available at Vietnam’s main international and regional airports serving key tourist destinations:
- Noi Bai International Airport – Gateway to Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport – Gateway to Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta
- Da Nang International Airport – Access to Da Nang, Hoi An & Hue
- Phu Quoc International Airport – Direct access to Phu Quoc Island resorts
- Phu Bai International Airport – Serving Hue ancient capital
- Lien Khuong International Airport – Gateway to Da Lat highlands
Transfer options are available for city centers, beach resorts, and nearby tourist areas.
Types of Airport Transfer Services
Private Airport Pickup
A driver meets you at the arrival hall with a name sign and transfers you directly to your hotel.
Advantages:
- Fixed pricing (no meter uncertainty)
- Air-conditioned, comfortable vehicle
- Direct hotel drop-off
- Ideal for families or groups
How to Book:
- Through your hotel: Contact the hotel in advance, provide flight details, and receive confirmation.
- Via online platforms: Book easily on services like Klook, Booking.com, Agoda, Traveloka, or Grab.
- Through travel agencies: Arrange as part of a tour or travel package.
Tip: Book 24–48 hours in advance, especially during peak season.
Shared Airport Transfer
Shared Airport Transfer is a cost-effective transportation option where you share a vehicle with other passengers heading in the same direction or area.
Advantages:
- Lower cost compared to private transfer
- Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
- Environmentally friendly (shared ride)
- Suitable for solo travelers or small groups
How it works:
- The driver picks up multiple passengers from the airport.
- Drop-offs are made at different hotels along the route.
- Travel time may be slightly longer due to multiple stops.
How to Book:
- Through your hotel: Many hotels can arrange shared shuttle services upon request.
- Via online platforms: Available on Klook, Traveloka, Agoda, and sometimes Booking.com.
- Through local travel agencies: Often combined with tour bookings.
Best for:
Budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a slightly longer transfer time in exchange for lower cost.
Taxi Services
Licensed airport taxis are widely available at official taxi stands.
Major taxi brands include:
- Mai Linh Taxi
- Vinasun Taxi
Notes:
- Always use official taxi queues.
- Ensure the meter is running.
- Airport surcharges may apply.
- Cash payment is common, though some taxis accept cards.
Ride-Hailing Services
Ride-hailing apps operate in major cities, including Grab
Advantages:
- Transparent pricing shown in-app
- Cashless payment options
- English app interface
Pickup points at airports may be designated and require short walking distances.
Public Bus & Shuttle Services
Public buses connect airports to city centers in larger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Advantages:
- Very economical
- Regular schedules during daytime hours
Considerations:
- May not operate late at night
- Limited luggage space
- Less convenient after long flights
Some airports (e.g., Phu Quoc or Da Nang) also offer hotel-operated shuttle buses for resort areas.
How to Arrange Transportation to Your Hotel
Travelers have several booking options:
Pre-book Online
- Reserve private airport pickup through travel service providers.
- Book through hotel websites if they offer airport transfer service.
- Use ride-hailing apps after arrival (requires mobile internet).
Book Upon Arrival
- Purchase taxi service at official airport counters.
- Arrange transport at licensed service desks inside arrival halls.
Through Your Hotel
Many hotels and resorts offer paid airport transfer services upon request. This option can be convenient for resort destinations like Phu Quoc or Da Nang.
Estimated Travel Times (Approximate)
- Noi Bai → Hanoi Old Quarter: 30–45 minutes
- Tan Son Nhat → District 1 (HCMC): 20–40 minutes (traffic dependent)
- Da Nang Airport → Hoi An: 30–45 minutes
- Phu Bai → Hue City Center: 25–35 minutes
- Lien Khuong → Da Lat City: 30–40 minutes
- Phu Quoc Airport → Resort areas: 15–30 minutes
Traffic conditions and peak hours may affect travel times, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City.
Choosing the Right Option
- Maximum comfort & direct service: Private transfer
- Budget option: Shared transfer or public bus
- Flexible & app-based: Ride-hailing service
- Quick and simple at arrival: Official airport taxi
Airport pickup and transfer services help ensure a smooth arrival experience, allowing travelers to start their journey in Vietnam comfortably and efficiently.