Vietnam’s Airports: A Complete Guide to Prepare Your Trip Well

Vietnam today has a modern and rapidly expanding air network, reflecting the country’s tourism and economic dynamism.
With 55 airports distributed across the territory, of which 9 are international, the country offers numerous possibilities for traveling between its regions or from abroad.

However, only 5 of these international airports currently receive direct flights from abroad.
Here is a complete guide to Vietnam’s airports to prepare your arrival and internal travel well.

Vietnam’s Main International Airports

1. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City

The largest and busiest airport in the country, located 8 km from Ho Chi Minh City center.
It is the main gateway to South Vietnam. It serves most international and domestic flights.

➤ Ideal for: travelers arriving from Cambodia, Thailand, Europe or Australia.

2. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi

Located 35 km from the city center, Noi Bai airport is the most important in North Vietnam.
It accommodates most flights from Europe and Asia and serves as a departure point for exploring Halong Bay, Sapa and North Vietnam.

➤ Ideal for: cultural and nature tours in North Vietnam.

3. Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang

Located in the heart of the country, it directly connects several Asian cities (Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore, Bangkok).
It is the ideal access point for visiting Hoi An, Hue and the central region.

➤ Ideal for: travelers who want to combine culture, beach and heritage.

4. Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Nha Trang

Located 30 km south of Nha Trang, this airport mainly serves the beach resorts on the south coast.
Numerous direct flights from Russia, South Korea and China land here every week.

➤ Ideal for: beach stays and relaxing vacations.

5. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc Island

Opened in 2012, Phu Quoc airport allows you to reach this paradise island directly from Bangkok, Seoul or Kuala Lumpur.
It also serves numerous Vietnamese destinations.

➤ Ideal for: beach stays, honeymoons and tropical getaways.

Other International Airports (Mainly Domestic Today)

Four other airports have international infrastructure, but mainly accommodate domestic flights:

• Can Tho (VCA) – Mekong Delta
• Lien Khuong (DLI) – Da Lat
• Phu Bai (HUI) – Hue
• Cat Bi (HPH) – Hai Phong

These airports could accommodate more international flights in the coming years, depending on tourism development and airlines.

Vietnam’s Domestic Airports

In addition to international airports, the country has 12 active domestic airports that ensure regional connections:

North and Central:

• Vinh (Nghe An)
• Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa)
• Chu Lai (Quang Nam)
• Dong Hoi (Quang Binh)
• Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen)

Central Highlands and South:

• Buon Ma Thuot (Dak Lak)
• Pleiku (Gia Lai)
• Phu Cat (Binh Dinh)
• Ca Mau (Ca Mau)
• Rach Gia (Kien Giang)
• Con Dao (Ba Ria – Vung Tau)
• Dien Bien Phu (Dien Bien)

These regional airports allow you to save time during travel within the country, avoiding long hours of bus or train travel.

Tips for Travelers

• Plan to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.
• Always check the departure terminal, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where domestic and international terminals are separate.
• Transfers between airport and city center are possible via taxi, shuttle bus or apps like Grab.

In Summary

Vietnam has a modern air network that effectively connects its main cities and tourist regions.
Whether you land in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang or Phu Quoc, each airport will allow you to travel comfortably and quickly through this fascinating country.