Best Restaurants Near Noi Bai International Airport — Eat Like a Local

Hanoi guide: real food walking/short-cab from airport. Real, specific, no fluff.

Arriving in Hanoi: A Foodie's Guide from Noi Bai International Airport

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) may not be the most modern airport, but it's a great introduction to the city's rich culture and cuisine. You can grab a quick bite at the airport's various eateries, but for a truly authentic experience, head to the nearby neighborhoods for a taste of Hanoi's famous street food.

From Airport to City: Your Options

The airport is located about 35 kilometers north of Hanoi's city center. You have a few options to get to the city, including taxis, Uber, and Grab. The most popular option is to take a taxi, which costs around 350,000 VND (approximately $15 USD) to the city center. However, be aware that some taxi drivers may try to take you on a longer route to increase the fare.

A more affordable option is to take the airport shuttle bus, which costs 40,000 VND (approximately $1.70 USD) one way. The bus runs every 20 minutes and takes around 45 minutes to reach the city center. You can grab the bus at the airport's bus station, which is located on the ground floor.

Another option is to take a private car or van, which can be booked through a reputable company. This will cost around 250,000 VND (approximately $10.70 USD) to the city center and can be a convenient option if you have a lot of luggage.

Exploring Hanoi's Neighborhoods

Hanoi is divided into 12 districts, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most popular neighborhoods to explore include Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem, and Tay Ho.

Old Quarter: The Heart of Hanoi

The Old Quarter is the oldest part of Hanoi and is home to many of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Dong Xuan Market and the Bach Ma Temple. You can grab a quick bite at the nearby street food stalls, which serve everything from banh mi to bun cha.

One of the best places to try some of Hanoi's famous street food is on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, which is lined with food stalls and restaurants. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as bun cha and banh cuon.

Hoan Kiem: The Lake District

Hoan Kiem is a charming neighborhood located on the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with many restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. You can grab a coffee at one of the many cafes on the lake or try some of the local street food at the nearby stalls.

One of the best places to try some of Hanoi's famous coffee is at Cafe Pho Co, which is located on the lake's edge. The cafe serves some of the best coffee in the city, and the views of the lake are stunning.

What to Avoid in Hanoi

While Hanoi is a relatively safe city, there are some areas that you should avoid, especially at night. The city has a few scams and tourist traps that you should be aware of, including overpriced restaurants and fake tour operators.

Scams to Watch Out For

One of the most common scams in Hanoi is the taxi scam, where taxi drivers try to take you on a longer route to increase the fare. Be sure to use a reputable taxi company or ride-sharing service, and always check the meter before you start your journey.

Another scam to watch out for is the overpriced restaurant scam, where restaurants try to charge you exorbitant prices for your food. Be sure to do some research before you eat at a restaurant, and always check the prices before you order.

Final Tips and Tricks

Before you head to Hanoi, make sure you have a few essential items, including a good map, a portable charger, and a Vietnamese SIM card. You should also be aware of the local customs and traditions, including the dress code and the use of chopsticks.

Finally, be sure to try some of the local street food, which is some of the best in the city. You can find street food stalls all over the city, but some of the best places to try are on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street and at the Dong Xuan Market.

For your convenience, consider downloading the Portability App to exchange your currency when needed.