Bus 86 Hanoi Airport to City Center & Old Quarter

Timetable, Stops, Ticket Price & Travel Tips

Bus Express No. 86 (commonly known as Bus 86 Hanoi) is one of the most popular and affordable ways to travel between Noi Bai International Airport and Hanoi city center, including the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Hanoi Railway Station.

Launched in April 2016 by Hanoi Transport Corporation (Transerco), Bus 86 is designed specifically for tourists, offering air-conditioned buses, luggage space, and English-speaking staff.

Now, let’s look at its details with useful information for your travel in Hanoi.

Overview of Bus 86 Hanoi

Bus 86 Map & Stops

Here are all the stops on the Bus 86 route:

From Hanoi City Center to Noi Bai Airport

Hanoi Railway Station
→ Bus stop opposite Melia Hotel
→ Hanoi Post Office
→ 23 Hang Tre Street
→ Long Bien Transit Station (E11)
→ Yen Phu Intersection
→ Au Co – Xuan Dieu Intersection
→ 468 Au Co – Lac Long Quan
→ VAECO Company
→ Noi Bai Airport Terminal 1
→ Noi Bai Airport Terminal 2

From Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City Center

Terminal 1
→ Terminal 2
→ VAECO Company
→ 523 Au Co – Lac Long Quan
→ Au Co – Xuan Dieu
→ Yen Phu Intersection
→ Long Bien Transit Station
→ 142 Tran Quang Khai
→ Hanoi Opera House
→ Melia Hanoi Hotel
→ Hanoi Railway Station

👉 For travelers heading to the Old Quarter, the most convenient stops are Hanoi Opera House, Tran Quang Khai, or Long Bien Station, followed by a short walk or taxi ride.

Bus 86 Hanoi Timetable

• From Hanoi Railway Station: 05:05 AM – 06:25 PM
• From Noi Bai Airport: 06:25 AM – 07:45 PM
• Frequency: 30 – 35 minutes
• Travel time: Around 60 – 80 minutes (may vary due to traffic)

How Much Does Bus 86 Cost?

• Ticket price: 35,000 VND (approx. USD 1.5)
• No reservation required
• Buy tickets directly from the bus staff onboard
• Payment accepted in cash (VND) or international cards (Visa/Mastercard)

What to Expect on Bus 86

Before choosing Bus 86, here’s what travelers should know:

• The bus has only around 25 seats, the rest is standing room
• During peak hours, the bus can be very crowded
• Large suitcases are allowed, but space may be limited when busy
• Passengers board from the front door and exit from the rear door
• Keep personal belongings secure, especially during rush hours

💡 Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, and budget-conscious tourists
❌ Not ideal for: Families with children, travelers arriving late at night, or those with heavy luggage

Is Bus 86 the Best Way from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter?

Bus 86 is cheap and convenient during the day, but it may not be the best choice if:

• You arrive late at night or early morning
• You carry multiple large suitcases
• You want a door-to-door transfer
• You are traveling with children or elderly passengers

👉 In these cases, a private Hanoi airport transfer offers much more comfort and peace of mind.

Private Transfer: The Easiest Way from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi

For a hassle-free journey, many travelers prefer a pre-booked airport transfer:

✔ Fixed price – no surprises
✔ Door-to-door service
✔ Professional English-speaking drivers
✔ Ideal for Old Quarter hotels & narrow streets
✔ Available 24/7, even on holidays

👉 Check reliable Hanoi airport transfer service here 👉 https://www.vietnam-visa.com/vietnam-airport-transfer/

Final Thoughts

Bus 86 Hanoi is a solid budget option for traveling between Noi Bai International Airport and Hanoi city center, especially during daytime hours. However, if comfort, speed, and convenience matter more to you, a private airport transfer is often the smarter choice.