Hello, travel pros! Crafting the perfect Vietnam itinerary starts with choosing the right flights, and in 2025, connecting Europe and Russia to Vietnam is more seamless than ever. With new direct routes and a variety of convenient connections, your clients can land ready to explore Vietnam’s bustling cities, serene beaches, and misty mountains. We’re focusing on Vietnam’s three key international hubs: Noi Bai in Hanoi (HAN), Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), and Da Nang International (DAD). These airports are more than gateways—they’re the launchpads for unforgettable adventures.
This guide dives into the top airlines serving these routes, highlighting convenience factors like direct flights, layover ease, and airport perks to help you create smooth, client-pleasing itineraries. Whether it’s a cultural immersion in the north or a beach escape in the center, we’ve got the insights to elevate your planning game. Let’s get started!
Vietnam’s Airport Trifecta: Why These Hubs Stand Out
Vietnam’s aviation scene is thriving, with a range of airlines serving its major airports. For flights from Europe and Russia, HAN, SGN, and DAD are the go-to hubs due to their international facilities and excellent onward connections.
- Noi Bai International (HAN), Hanoi: The northern gateway boasts modern terminals and a quick 45-minute transfer to the Old Quarter. It’s perfect for clients diving into Vietnam’s cultural heart.
- Tan Son Nhat (SGN), Ho Chi Minh City: The southern powerhouse handles high traffic with efficient immigration and plenty of taxis. It’s just 30 minutes to District 1’s vibrant buzz.
- Da Nang International (DAD): A central gem, steps from My Khe Beach and the Marble Mountains. Its smaller size means less hassle, ideal for eco-tourism and coastal getaways.
Pro tip: All three airports offer VIP fast-track services—great for upselling a seamless arrival experience for premium clients.
Flying to Hanoi (HAN): Northern Ease and Direct Delights
Hanoi’s Noi Bai International is a top pick for direct flights from Europe, offering convenience for travelers eager to hit the ground running. Flight times average 11-12 hours from major hubs, with schedules designed to minimize jet lag.
Top Airlines from Europe:
- Vietnam Airlines: A leader with daily directs from London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), and the exciting new Hanoi-Milan route launched July 1, 2025. Expect premium economy comforts like extra legroom.
- Air France & KLM: Smooth one-stop connections via Paris or Amsterdam, keeping total travel time under 13 hours.
- Others: Lufthansa (via FRA) and Turkish Airlines (via IST) offer reliable one-stop options with competitive schedules.
From Russia:
- Vietnam Airlines: Direct Moscow (SVO/DME) to Hanoi flights resumed May 8, 2025, clocking in at about 9 hours with codeshare options for easy ticketing.
- Aeroflot: Dependable directs from Moscow, blending efficiency with comfort.
Convenience Score: High—many flights land in the evening, syncing perfectly with Hanoi’s lively nightlife. For connections, Doha (Qatar Airways) offers short layovers under 2 hours, ideal for Middle East stopovers.
Soaring into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): Southern Energy and Easy Access
SGN matches Ho Chi Minh City’s dynamic vibe, serving as the ideal entry for southern adventures like the Mekong Delta. Its bustling terminals are designed for quick processing and easy city access.
Top Airlines from Europe:
- Vietnam Airlines: Directs from London, Paris, Frankfurt, and the new Ho Chi Minh-Copenhagen route starting December 15, 2025—Vietnam’s first link to Denmark! Flights take around 12 hours with top-notch service.
- Emirates & Qatar Airways: Luxe one-stops via Dubai or Doha (14-16 hours total), perfect for clients wanting a quick stopover experience.
- Etihad & British Airways: Abu Dhabi or London connections add flexibility.
From Russia:
- Aeroflot: Direct Moscow to SGN flights, resumed in 2024, offer a swift 8-9 hour journey.
- Emirates & China Southern: Efficient Asian layovers for when directs are fully booked.
Convenience Score: Great for families—SGN’s lounges and play areas are a hit. Evening arrivals dodge city traffic, and one-stops like Turkish Airlines via Istanbul add layover perks without long waits.
Da Nang (DAD): Central Charm for Coastal Getaways
Da Nang’s compact airport is a breeze to navigate, just 20 minutes from My Khe Beach. It’s perfect for central Vietnam itineraries, though long-haul options often involve a quick connection.
Top Airlines from Europe:
- No direct flights yet, but Vietnam Airlines and Eurowings provide efficient one-stops via HAN or SGN, keeping total travel time to 13-15 hours.
- Turkish Airlines: Istanbul connections offer a cultural layover with competitive schedules.
From Russia:
- Vietjet: Pioneering directs from Moscow and Irkutsk to nearby Cam Ranh (CXR), launched June 2025, with easy transfers to DAD for beach-focused trips. Anex adds seasonal support.
- Aeroflot: Connects via SGN for a 10-12 hour total journey.
Convenience Score: Strong—fewer crowds mean customs clears in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for Hoi An or Hue day trips, but plan for connection buffers. Pro hack: Pair with high-speed trains for north-south adventures.
Quick Comparison: At a Glance for Busy Agents
| Airport | Key Directs from Europe | Key Directs from Russia | Avg. Flight Time | Best For |
| HAN (Hanoi) | Vietnam Airlines (LHR, CDG, FRA, MXP) | Vietnam Airlines, Aeroflot (SVO) | 11-12 hrs | Culture & efficiency |
| SGN (HCMC) | Vietnam Airlines (LHR, CDG, FRA, CPH) | Aeroflot (SVO) | 12-13 hrs | Urban vibes & accessibility |
| DAD (Da Nang) | Limited; connects via Vietnam Airlines | Vietjet (via CXR), Aeroflot connects | 13-15 hrs | Beaches & relaxation |
Your Next Move: Craft Vietnam Journeys with Confidence
With new routes like Milan and Copenhagen opening up, 2025 is a golden year for Vietnam travel from Europe and Russia. As travel pros, you set the stage for seamless adventures, and choosing the right flights is the first step to wowing your clients.
Need to add that local magic? VietOne Travel’s DMC expertise can elevate your itineraries with tailored transfers, insider guides, and curated experiences from Hanoi’s temples to Da Nang’s shores. Let’s make every trip unforgettable—reach out to our team to start planning!
Safe travels, and here’s to creating more Vietnam success stories! What’s your favorite Vietnam travel tip? Share in the comments—we’d love to hear from you.
