Journey to: Haiphong

Air Travel Essentials

Airport and Airlines

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) serves as the main airport for Haiphong.

Flight Information

Domestic airlines include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways.
Domestic routes link HPH with major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.
International flights from HPH are limited, mainly to Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, and Guangzhou.

Airport Transfers

Various options exist for transfers from HPH to the city center and your accommodation.

Transport Choices

Taxis are available outside the terminal; a ride to city center costs around VND 150,000 - 250,000.
Grab (ride-sharing) offers convenient and often cheaper options for cars or motorbikes.
Airport bus routes connect to the city center, being the least costly choice.

Flight Availability

Domestic flight prices fluctuate based on demand and holidays (Tet Lunar New Year is costly). Book in advance, especially for peak seasons. Check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.

HPH Facilities

Cat Bi International Airport is modern and medium-sized. Facilities include ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, small restaurants, cafes, and Wi-Fi.

International Access

Direct international flights from major global hubs to Haiphong are rare. Most global travelers arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, then use ground transport to Haiphong.

Ground Transportation

Train Connections

Haiphong Railway Station sits in the city center.
The main route is the Haiphong-Hanoi line; journey is about 2.5 - 3 hours.
Purchase tickets at the station, online through Vietnam Railways (Dsvn.vn), or via authorized agents.
Hard seat and soft seat options are available.

Long-distance Bus Options

Major bus stations: Lac Long Bus Station and Niem Nghia Bus Station.
Frequent connections to Hanoi, Cat Ba Island (combined bus and ferry ticket), Hai Duong, and Halong City.
Haiphong to Hanoi takes about 1.5 - 2 hours via expressways.
Numerous private bus companies operate, from standard to sleeper buses.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving Legality

Foreigners generally cannot legally drive a private car in Vietnam without a Vietnamese driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention is recognized for motorcycles up to 50cc and cars if paired with a Vietnamese license. Check DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Road Environment

Road conditions vary significantly. Main highways are generally good, but urban roads can bring chaotic heavy motorbike traffic. Road conditions can be unpredictable.

Safety Concerns

Accident rates are high. Driving in Vietnam brings challenges due to aggressive driving styles, a lack of adherence to traffic laws, and unpredictable road users. This option is not advised for inexperienced drivers.

Water Transportation

Cat Ba Island Ferries

Haiphong serves as the main mainland gateway to Cat Ba Island.

Departure Points

Pha Got Ferry Terminal: Located south of Haiphong city; main car ferry to Cai Vieng Pier on Cat Ba Island.
Ben Binh Ferry Terminal: In Haiphong city center; offers hydrofoil and speed boat services directly to Cat Ba Town.
Hydrofoil and speed boat options are faster but more expensive than the car ferry.

Port and River Travel

Haiphong's identity as a port city means sea and river transport are available, especially for reaching nearby islands.

Local Waterways

Haiphong has a large international port, Lach Huyen Port, mainly for cargo.
International passenger cruise ship calls happen less frequently than at Halong Bay's Tuan Chau International Port.
Limited river transportation exists for tourists within Haiphong city itself, mainly for cargo.

Arrival Connections

Upon arrival at Cat Ba Island piers, onward transport to Cat Ba Town is available.

Connecting Services

From Pha Got (Cai Vieng Pier on Cat Ba side): Shuttle buses and taxis go to Cat Ba Town.
From Ben Binh: Cat Ba Town is directly accessible upon arrival.
From Haiphong Port: Taxis and Grab services are available for city connections.

Specialized Local Transport

Beyond standard options, Haiphong and its vicinity feature unique ways to travel, especially for exploring the bay and islands.

Unique Rides

Cyclo (Pedicab): Traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxis for short, leisurely rides. Agree on price beforehand.
Cat Ba Cable Car: Connects Cat Ba Town with Phù Long Commune, offering scenic views and quick access.
Tour buses mainly transport groups for regional tours; Haiphong has no hop-on-hop-off services.

Driving Safety Warnings

Drive on the right side of the road.
Helmets are mandatory for motorbikes.
Speed limits are often ignored by local drivers.

Expect aggressive driving styles.
Traffic laws are not always strictly followed.
Beware of unpredictable road users.

Departure Logistics

Exit Procedures

Be aware of procedures and timing for a smooth departure from Vietnam.

Departure Checklist

No specific exit fees or taxes are payable (typically included in ticket price).
Airport (HPH): Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 2.5-3 hours before international flights.
Train/Bus Stations: Arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure for trains, 15-30 minutes for buses.

Station Facilities

Facilities at departure points help with traveler comfort.

Traveler Amenities

HPH Airport: The departure lounge has limited shops and food options. Wi-Fi is available.
Haiphong Railway Station/Bus Stations: These have basic waiting areas and some small kiosks.
Ferry Terminals: Arrive 30-60 minutes before hydrofoil or speed boat departures for tickets and boarding.

Travel Tips

Plan your airport transfers in advance. Verify train and bus schedules for updated timings.

Journey to Haiphong