Van Don

Van Don International Airport is the modern aerial gateway to the stunning Quang Ninh Province in Vietnam. Opened in 2018, it became the country's first private airport, built to facilitate tourist access to the famous Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The airport is designed as a unique eco-friendly space, harmoniously integrated into the picturesque landscape, offering passengers a high level of comfort even before their adventures begin in one of Asia's most beautiful regions. Its terminal, inspired by the imagery of the bay, creates a sense of tranquillity and unity with nature.

The main feature of Van Don Airport is its strategic location. It is situated just 50 km from Ha Long City, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the bay of the same name. This significantly reduces travel time for travellers who previously had to commute from Hanoi. The airport boasts a 3.6 km runway capable of accommodating modern long-haul aircraft. The terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, offering passengers free Wi-Fi, green relaxation zones, and various services, making their stay here maximally comfortable and pleasant.

Below you will find contact information for Van Don International Airport (VDO), which will help you plan your trip and contact its services.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the official website: vdia.com.vn
• Information Desk Hotline: For immediate information, you can call: +84 203 390 6688
• Address: Đoàn Kết, Vân Đồn, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam (Xã Đoàn Kết, huyện Vân Đồn, tỉnh Quảng Ninh)
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the e-mail: info@vdia.com.vn
• Social Media: The airport maintains a page on Facebook, where news and updates are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, it is recommended to first contact your airline's counter in the arrival hall. Additional advice can be obtained via the airport's general information hotline.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, please contact the information service at the phone number listed above.

You can reach Van Don International Airport (VDO), which is the closest to the famous Ha Long Bay, via several convenient methods. The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences. The airport is located approximately 50 km from Ha Long City, and the journey from there to the terminal usually takes about 50-60 minutes.

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is by shuttle bus. These routes connect the airport with key tourist spots, primarily Ha Long City. Bus schedules are often coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, making them a convenient choice for solo travellers and those travelling light. It is recommended to check the current schedule and fares in advance, as they may change.

Taxis and private transfers are the most comfortable options. In the arrival hall, you will find counters for official taxi services. To avoid misunderstandings, agree on the price in advance or ensure the driver uses the meter. An even more convenient method is to book a private transfer. Many hotels and travel agencies offer this service, allowing you to reach your destination without hassle, especially if you are travelling with family or heavy luggage.

For those who value independence and plan to move actively around the region, car rental is the ideal solution. There are representatives of several rental companies at the airport. Please note that driving in Vietnam may require an International Driving Permit. The roads leading to the airport are modern and in good condition. If you arrive in a rented or private car, convenient short-term and long-term parking is available at the airport.

Van Don Airport is a modern transport hub serving as an excellent alternative to larger airports, such as Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi or Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong, for travellers heading to Ha Long Bay. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, we advise you to book your transfer in advance or study the bus schedule. When choosing a taxi, give preference to official carriers to guarantee safety and a fair price.

Van Don International Airport (VDO) is distinguished by a thoughtful and modern structure focused on maximum passenger comfort. It operates one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This solution significantly simplifies navigation and saves travellers from the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. The building has two main levels:

• Upper Floor — This is the departure zone. Here you will find check-in counters, security checkpoints, passport control, and boarding gates.
• Lower Floor — The arrival zone. Passengers arrive here after landing to go through border control (for international flights), baggage claim, and customs inspection.

Thanks to its compact size and clear zoning, moving around the airport causes no difficulties.

One of the main features of the terminal is its design, inspired by the nature of the famous Ha Long Bay. Spacious halls, an abundance of greenery, and natural light create a calm and pleasant atmosphere, which is atypical for many airports. It is a "green" airport, where special attention is paid to environmental friendliness and harmony with the surroundings.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Van Don Airport typically takes significantly less time compared to major international hubs. Thanks to modern infrastructure and optimised processes, check-in and screening are quick. Nevertheless, standard recommendations remain in force: it is worth arriving at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one to complete all formalities without rushing.

For ease of navigation, clear signs in Vietnamese and English are installed throughout the terminal. Airport staff are always ready to help and answer questions. Thanks to the thoughtful layout, it is practically impossible to get lost here, even if you are at the airport for the first time.

Van Don International Airport (VDO) is one of the youngest yet most iconic aviation projects in Vietnam. Its history does not stretch back decades but is an example of rapid modern development. The official opening of the airport took place on 30 December 2018, marking an important milestone for the entire country. The main feature of VDO is that it is the first private airport in the history of Vietnam, built and managed by the Sun Group.

Construction began in 2016 as part of a large-scale plan to develop Quang Ninh Province and create a world-class tourism hub near the famous Ha Long Bay. The idea was to create a modern aerial gateway capable of receiving international flights and reducing travel time for tourists wishing to visit one of the natural wonders of the world. The entire project was implemented in record time — just over two years.

Despite its youth, the airport has already gained global recognition. In 2019, just a year after commencing operations, it was awarded the prestigious World Travel Awards as "World's Leading New Airport". This achievement highlights the highest quality of infrastructure, which includes a 3.6 km runway capable of receiving large airliners, and a terminal with unique "green" architecture inspired by the nature of Ha Long Bay.

In recent history, the airport also played an important role during global air travel restrictions by taking on the burden of operating humanitarian and repatriation flights. Today, Van Don Airport is not just a transport hub, but a symbol of an innovative approach to infrastructure and tourism development in the region.

Van Don International Airport (VDO), despite its compact size, represents a modern and well-thought-out terminal where all conditions are created for waiting for a flight in comfort. A wide range of services is available to passengers, allowing them to resolve any issues before departure or immediately upon arrival.

Cafes and restaurants operate in the departure and arrival zones, where you can have a quick snack or a full meal, trying dishes of local and international cuisine. Particular attention should be paid to shops offering not only the standard Duty-Free assortment but also unique souvenirs and delicacies of Quang Ninh Province, making shopping at the airport part of discovering the culture of Vietnam.

For those who value enhanced comfort or need a quiet environment for work, the VIP Lounge (Business Lounge) is open. Here guests can relax in comfortable armchairs, enjoy a selection of snacks and beverages, and work in silence. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting lounges.

Passengers can easily resolve financial matters thanks to the presence of ATMs and currency exchange points at the airport. For emergency assistance, a medical centre operates around the clock, where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. A mother and child room is equipped for families with small children, and there is also a small play area. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on comprehensive support: the terminal is equipped with ramps and special restrooms, and staff are ready to provide assistance in movement upon request through the airline.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport grounds, in the immediate vicinity, within the Van Don resort area, there are many accommodation options — from luxurious complexes to cosy guest houses. This allows you to conveniently plan your holiday or business trip without spending much time travelling to the airport.

At Van Don Airport (VDO), passengers will find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal, allowing for a comfortable time while waiting for a flight. The main dining outlets are concentrated in the main terminal and are available both in the public area before security control and in the departure zone.

Before flight check-in and passport control (landside), you can visit several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch with those seeing you off. After passing through control (airside), the choice of establishments is oriented towards passengers who need quick service. Here you will find coffee shops and food courts offering both local and international dishes.

Once at Van Don Airport, be sure to take the opportunity to try local cuisine from Quang Ninh Province. Pay attention to establishments offering fresh seafood, for which the region is famous. This could be the renowned seafood Pho or rice noodles with shrimp. Such a lunch will be a wonderful conclusion to your journey through Vietnam.

For those in a hurry, coffee shops are the ideal choice, where you can order traditional Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk (cà phê sữa đá) and fresh pastries. If you have time, restaurants in the departure zone will offer more substantial options, including set meals. Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian dishes based on rice and vegetables are quite easy to find. However, for stricter diets (vegan, gluten-free), choices may be limited, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff.

Prices in airport establishments are generally higher than in the city, which is standard practice. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are usually tied to the flight schedule, so even if you have an early departure or late arrival, you will be able to find an open establishment. Most of them open a few hours before the first flight and close after the departure of the last one.

Planning a trip through Van Don Airport? This modern and convenient transport hub, located near the famous Ha Long Bay, offers comfortable conditions for passengers. To ensure your trip through Vietnam goes smoothly, take advantage of our tips.

Arrival time at the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season.

Check-in and security control. To save time, use online check-in if your airline offers this facility. At the airport, have your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass ready. Security control procedures are standard, but be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronic devices from your hand luggage.

Seat selection on the plane. If you want to enjoy stunning views of the Ha Long Bay islands during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. If freedom of movement and the ability to stretch your legs are more important to you, an aisle seat is more suitable.

Hand luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids are allowed in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp and piercing/cutting objects are prohibited. Power banks and electronic cigarettes should only be carried in hand luggage. Always check the weight and size limits for hand luggage with your airline.

Passengers with transfers. Van Don Airport is relatively small and modern, making transfers quite quick. Check at check-in whether you will need to collect your luggage and re-register it. Follow the "Transit" or "Connecting Flights" signs to find the correct boarding gate.

Customs control. When passing through customs, keep your passport and completed declaration (if necessary) ready. Be prepared to answer standard questions about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, prepare all receipts and documents in advance.

Saving time and money. Book your airport transfer in advance to avoid inflated prices on arrival. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — after passing security control, you can fill it at drinking fountains. Compare prices in cafes and Duty-Free shops to find the best offers.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. There is free Wi-Fi in the terminal, so you can stay connected and monitor updates on your flight status.