Originally Posted by
hxhbk
To get to your hotel from Noi Bai airport, the most comfortable way and worry-free is to get the car transfer service from the hotel. It would be pricey but your experience will be hassle free. Otherwise, you can catch a taxi if you are comfortable to do so. As I recall, there are several taxi companies servicing Noi Bai airport and the capital city of Hanoi. Personally, I have no preference over any brand, but I would make sure that the car looks reasonably new. The taxi fare should be around 400,000 to 450,000 VND or a bit over 20 USD and takes about 30 to 45 min depending on traffic. Look for the sign Taxi when you exit the international terminal, it should be on your left.
I think you are referring to the Museum of Military History "Bảo tàng Lịch sử Quân sự Việt Nam" located at 28A Dien Bien Phu Street. If so it is about 2km from your hotel.
There is a Museum of National History, just behind the Hanoi Hilton Opera which is quite close to the Sofitel Metropole and definitely within walking distance.
Thank you so much for taking the time to reply as well as the two other responders. I really appreciate your insights. This is our first time in Vietnam, and after reading your posts, I am glad that I will not have to try to negotiate a taxi. We tried that in Dubai after the long flights from Hawaii, and one taxi driver flashing a badge came up and told us that the taxi driver that we were handing our baggage too was not licensed. Very confusing, especially after the driver with the badge then led us out to a bus!
Have you visited both the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Military History (I'm sure that is what I was referring to)? If so, can you provide a few details of both. Have you ever been to the Ethnology Museum? If we arrive at the airport at 10 AM from Luang Prabang, do you think we could see two museums
after checking in to our hotel?
Do you think either of the two pick up services mentioned by the other posters would arrange multiple stops? By the way, has anyone tried Uber in Hanoi?
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience! It is deeply appreciated.