Cheap flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Hanoi (HAN)

There’s something so special about the way old traditions and daily life mix together in Hanoi. You’ll find yourself sipping a strong yet sweet cup of Vietnamese iced coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake in the morning, then weaving through the narrow alleys of the Old Quarter by the afternoon while the smells of a bowl of steaming phở draw you into a tiny street market. From sunset walks along West Lake to evenings watching a traditional water puppet show, Hanoi is the perfect destination for a laid-back yet culturally rich experience away from home.  

Which airlines fly direct from Melbourne to Hanoi?

• Vietnam Airlines: Vietnam’s national airline offers a comfortable full-service experience with a generous checked baggage allowance, in-flight entertainment, and delicious Vietnamese meals. As a member of the SkyTeam alliance, it’s a good choice if you're looking to collect frequent flyer miles or connect through partner airlines.
• VietJet Air: A no-frills, low-cost option for travellers looking to save. VietJet runs a newer fleet and keeps base fares low by charging separately for things like bags, seat selection, and meals. It’s a solid pick if you’re flexible and want to keep costs down.

Flight time from Melbourne to Hanoi?

When flying direct, it takes 19 hours and 55 minutes to fly from Melbourne to Hanoi.

Average price of flights between Melbourne and Hanoi

Direct return flights from Melbourne to Hanoi are usually around AU$1,200. If you’re flexible with stopovers, you’ll see fares go down a lot more, with return fares sitting around AU$700 or lower. 

Fares can vary depending on the time of booking, with budget airlines and non-direct flights offering lower base rates and full-service carriers like Vietnam Airlines and direct flights charging a bit more for added comfort and inclusions. If you’re flexible with your dates and don’t mind a stopover or two, you can often snag deals below that range. Right now, the lowest available fare is AU$316.

Cheapest time to fly to Hanoi

The best deals on flights to Hanoi usually pop up around March, and again in September and October, when fewer people are travelling. These months avoid peak holiday seasons in both Australia and Vietnam, helping keep prices down.

On the other hand, flights tend to be pricier in December and January, especially around the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, or Tết, which varies between late January and mid-February. Since Tết is a major celebration in Vietnam, travel costs during this period can be significantly higher.

Where is the airport in Hanoi?

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the main gateway to Hanoi, located approximately 45 kms north of the city centre. 

Getting from the airport to downtown Hanoi is simple. Many opt for taxis or ride-sharing services like Grab, which typically take around 40 minutes, depending on traffic. For a more budget-friendly option, the Noi Bai Airport Express Bus also offers direct routes to several central city stops.

Visa and passport requirements for Australians flying to Hanoi 

If you’re an Australian passport holder heading to Hanoi or anywhere else in Vietnam, you’ll need to secure a visa before you travel. 

There are a few main options to consider:

• e-Visa: This can be applied for online through the official Vietnamese government website. It usually takes 3 to 5 business days to process and grants a single-entry visa valid for 30 days. And Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport is one of the 13 approved air border gates for e-Visa holders.
• Visa on Arrival (with pre-approved letter): Despite the name, you must obtain a pre-approved letter from an authorised visa agency before you depart. This option is popular for last-minute travellers, as processing can sometimes be done the same day (however, there is no guarantee). Once you have your letter approved, upon arrival, present the letter, pay a stamping fee (cash only) at the airport, and have your passport stamped for a 30-day stay.

Costs are approximately AU$38 for the e-Visa, while a Visa on Arrival involves paying around AU$38 for the approval letter plus an additional AU$38 cash stamping fee at the airport.

Our tip? Be sure to apply through official sources to avoid delays, and make sure you have all the correct details and documents for your visa before you arrive — Vietnam’s visa rules are strict. Also, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates and make sure you have at least 2 blank pages available for entry stamps.

Time difference between Melbourne and Hanoi

Melbourne is 3 hours ahead of Hanoi, Vietnam. When it’s Daylight Savings Time in Melbourne, Hanoi is 4 hours behind. But fret not — the time difference (including Daylight Savings Time) is accounted for in your flight ticket. 

Our tips to getting the best price on flights

Planning a trip to Hanoi? Here are some tips to help you save money and travel hassle-free:

• Price Alerts: Keep an eye on fare changes by setting up price alerts through Traveloka’s app or website, so you can grab the best deals as soon as they appear.
• Fly midweek: Flying midweek, especially on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, usually means cheaper tickets.
• Check for Deals: Check Traveloka’s Deals page often for special offers on flights, accommodation, and activities in Hanoi.
• Red-Eye Flights: If you don’t mind a late start, red-eye flights can save you money and get you into the city early.
• Traveloka Points: Remember to use your Traveloka Points to lower your flight costs even more.

Why trust Traveloka with your flight booking

Organising your trip from Sydney to Hanoi doesn’t have to be complicated. Traveloka streamlines the entire process by letting you book flights, hotels, and local activities all in one convenient spot — so you can spend less time planning and more time getting ready.

With clear, upfront pricing and no hidden fees, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying. Plus, when you book your Hanoi flight through Traveloka, you’ll receive a free eSIM to stay connected as soon as you land.

Enjoy peace of mind with 24/7 Australian-based customer support, flexible interest-free payment options, and a quick and easy booking experience that brings you one step closer to your Hanoi getaway. 

Ready for your Hanoi adventure?

More than just flights, we can also help you find the perfect accommodation in Hanoi along with attraction tickets, tours and day trips to help you make the most of your trip.

Other popular destinations in Vietnam from Melbourne you might want to check out:

• Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City
• Melbourne to Da Nang
• Melbourne to Phu Quoc

Flying in the other direction? Here's all the information you need about the reverse journey from Hanoi to Melbourne.