Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter: bus 86, Grab
Updated 3 November 2026 · 3 min read
In short
From Hanoi airport (Noi Bai) to the Old Quarter, allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Express bus 86 is the cheapest (about 45,000 VND, to be checked, cash on board), Grab or Xanh SM are the simplest, and a booked transfer suits a night arrival or a family.
The options
| Option | Time | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express bus 86 | About 1 h | Small budget, travelling light | Serves Hoan Kiem Lake and the station; daytime only |
| Grab or Xanh SM | 45 min to 1 h | Most travellers | Price shown in the app; follow the pick-up points |
| Official taxi | 45 min to 1 h | No app | Official rank, check the meter |
| Booked transfer | 45 min to 1 h | Night flight, family, luggage | Driver on arrival, price fixed at booking |
On arrival
- Ignore touts in the arrivals hall: order in the app or go to the taxi rank.
- Install your eSIM before you leave: Grab needs a connection the moment you walk out.
- Keep some cash for bus 86 or a tip.
- Rush hour: the road can be far slower late in the day.
See also where to stay in Hanoi, Hanoi in 2 days and Grab and taxis in Vietnam.
Frequently asked questions
How to get from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter?
By express bus 86, the cheapest, by Grab or Xanh SM, the simplest, or by booked transfer. Allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.
How much is bus 86?
About 45,000 VND according to recent sources, paid in cash on board. The fare may change.
Can you arrive in Hanoi at night?
Yes: bus 86 only runs by day, but Grab, taxis and booked transfers are still available.