Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Hanoi (HAN) with Vietnam Airlines offer a smooth and efficient connection to Vietnam’s capital, with one-way fares starting from USD 522.6. Passengers can choose flight durations ranging from 20 hours 15 minutes to 42 hours 15 minutes, depending on the stopovers. Read on to explore the best transit options, flight times, and tips for a smooth journey.
1. Detailed Flight Information from San Francisco to Hanoi
Currently, there is no direct flight from SFO to Hanoi. All routes involve a layover at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on the length of the layover, the total flight duration from San Francisco to Hanoi can range significantly.
Here are some key facts to help plan your journey:
- Distance: 11,759km (about 7,306 miles).
- Flight duration (*): From 20 hours 15 minutes to 42 hours 15 minutes.
- Flight frequency (*): On average, 22 flights per day, 4 days per week.
Departure Information
|
Departure |
San Francisco |
|
Airport Name |
San Francisco International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
SFO |
|
Terminal |
Terminal I |
|
Location |
San Francisco, CA 94128, USA |
Transit airport
|
Departure from |
Ho Chi Minh City |
|
Airport Name |
Tan Son Nhat International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
SGN |
|
Terminal |
Terminal 2 → Terminal 3 |
|
Location |
Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
Arrival Information
|
Arrival |
Hanoi |
|
Airport Name |
Noi Bai International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
HAN |
|
Terminal |
Terminal 1 |
|
Location |
Phu Minh, Soc Son, Hanoi, Vietnam |
(*) Flight time and terminal details may vary depending on the airline and how long your layover is.
2. How to Travel to the SFO Airport and Hanoi City Center
Here’s a guide to the most common and convenient ways to get to San Francisco International Airport and from Noi Bai International Airport to downtown Hanoi.
2.1. Travelling to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
|
Transportation |
Instruction |
Estimated One-way Cost |
|
Bus |
Bus route 292 connects downtown San Francisco and the surrounding areas to the airport. |
From USD 3 - USD 5. |
|
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) |
The BART system connects the San Francisco city centre and the East Bay areas directly to SFO via the Yellow Line. |
From USD 8 - USD 11, depending on the departure station. |
|
Taxi |
Taxis are available throughout the city and typically take 20-40 minutes to reach the airport. |
Around USD 55 - USD 70. |
San Francisco International Airport is well-connected by various public and private transportation options (Source: Internet)
2.2. Travelling from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to Central Hanoi
|
Transportation |
Instruction |
Estimated One-way Cost |
|
Vietnam Airlines shuttle bus (minibus) |
Departs every 30-45 minutes from the pick-up point at the 16-seat bus parking area in front of Terminal 1 (T1). |
VND 40,000 (~USD 1.55) per person. |
|
Taxi |
Taxis are readily available outside the Arrival areas of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. |
From VND 10,000 (USD 0.38) per kilometer, depending on your destination in Hanoi. |
|
Bus |
Routes 07, 17, 90, NB01, NB02, NB03, and the express Bus 86 connect the airport to various parts of Hanoi. |
From VND 8,000 (~USD 0.35). |
|
Motorcycle taxi |
Available through local ride-hailing apps or on-site services. |
VND 200,000 - VND 220,000 (USD 7.69 - USD 8.46), depending on your drop-off point. |
Vietnam Airlines provides a convenient shuttle bus service connecting Noi Bai International Airport to central Hanoi
3. 4 Smart Travel Tips for a Smooth Flight from SFO to Hanoi
Flying halfway across the world can be tiring, but with a few simple strategies below, your journey from San Francisco to Hanoi can become far more enjoyable.
3.1. Look for the Best Airfare Deals
Flying from San Francisco to Hanoi can cost anywhere from USD 799 to USD 1,787 for a round-trip, depending on the season, demand, and transit routes. However, with a few smart booking strategies, you can easily cut down costs and spend more on experiences once you arrive in Vietnam:
- Reserve your ticket at least 2 to 3 months in advance to enjoy lower prices and a wider range of flight options.
- Flights that depart early in the morning or late at night tend to be more affordable. Midweek departures (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays) also often come with better rates.
- Vietnam Airlines regularly offers special deals for international travellers. Visit the official Vietnam Airlines website to discover current promotions and exclusive fare discounts.
- Earn reward points with every flight and redeem them for future trips, extra baggage, or upgrades.
To stay updated on the latest promotions, follow Vietnam Airlines via the official website, mobile app, or social media channels
3.2. Choose a Comfortable Seat Class for Long-Haul Flights
Given the extended flight duration and layovers, ensuring your comfort during the journey from San Francisco to Hanoi is crucial. Here’s how to make your flight more enjoyable:
- Consider upgrading to Premium Economy or Business Class: If your budget allows, upgrading to a higher class is highly recommended to enjoy extra legroom, wider seats, and better services.
- Select flights with wide-body aircraft: Choose planes like the Boeing 787 or Airbus A350 for more space, quieter cabins, and better amenities.
- Pre-select your seat: You can choose between a window seat for privacy or an aisle seat for easy mobility.
Spending over 17 hours in the air can be exhausting, so consider upgrading to Premium Economy or Business Class if your budget allows
3.3. Prepare for Time Zone and Weather Differences
Hanoi is 14 hours ahead of San Francisco (during daylight saving time), so jet lag is almost inevitable. Plan your sleep schedule and stay hydrated during the flight.
Additionally, the weather in Hanoi may differ significantly from what you're used to in San Francisco, especially if you’re travelling in the summer or rainy season. Make sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
Hanoi’s climate is tropical and may be considerably warmer or wetter than California, depending on the season (Source: Internet)
3.4. Opt for Long Layovers at Convenient Transit Airports
Airports like Incheon (ICN), Narita (NRT), and Tan Son Nhat (SGN) are known for offering reasonably priced lounges, where you can relax, freshen up, and even enjoy complimentary refreshments during your transit. Besides, avoid short layovers under 2 hours, as they increase the risk of missing connections, especially if immigration checks or terminal transfers are involved.
4. 5 Must-Visit Attractions When Visiting Hanoi
For travellers landing at Noi Bai International Airport, several notable attractions in Hanoi are easily accessible. Here are five iconic attractions that you should not miss when visiting Hanoi:
|
Attraction |
Highlights |
|
One Pillar Pagoda |
A unique Buddhist pagoda, renowned for its one-pillar design, symbolising Hanoi’s spiritual heritage. |
|
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum |
A must-see historical landmark where the embalmed body of Vietnam’s great father, Ho Chi Minh, is preserved. |
|
Hanoi Old Quarter |
A lively area filled with narrow alleys, colonial architecture, and street food, providing a true taste of Hanoi’s culture. |
|
Hanoi Opera House |
A grand French-colonial building, hosting various cultural performances and offering a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich artistic history. |
|
Hoan Kiem Lake |
A peaceful and historic lake, home to the iconic Turtle Tower and beautiful red bridge (The Huc bridge), is perfect for a relaxing stroll in the heart of the city. |
The Hanoi Opera House hosts a wide range of cultural performances and stands as a timeless icon in the heart of the capital (Source: Internet)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
5.1. How Often Are There Flights from San Francisco to Hanoi?
There are currently about 22 flights per day, operating 4 days per week from San Francisco to Hanoi, operated by Vietnam Airlines with one stopover. However, the exact frequency may vary depending on the season and airline schedules.
5.2. When is The Best Time to Purchase Tickets for The Lowest Fares?
To get better deals, book your ticket at least 2 - 3 months in advance. Prices tend to be lower (up to 5 - 10%) during off-peak travel seasons like March or late fall.
5.3. How Much Does a Flight from San Francisco to Hanoi cost?
One-way fares start from USD 522.6, but prices can vary depending on the booking date, seat class, and time of year.
That wraps up everything you need to know for your flight from San Francisco to Hanoi. Book your journey with Vietnam Airlines today to enjoy excellent fares and an unforgettable flying experience! For further assistance or tailored support, please do not hesitate to contact us.