Vietnam has become an increasingly popular travel destination for visitors from London, attracting thousands of tourists, business travelers, and expatriates each year. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes ranging from bustling cities to serene beaches, and an expanding tourism industry, Vietnam continues to be a sought-after destination. In 2024 alone, over 300,000 British tourists visited Vietnam, highlighting the country’s growing appeal. For those planning their trip, understanding the best flight options, routes, and ticket prices is essential to ensuring a cost-effective and smooth journey. This guide provides the latest data on available airlines, flight durations, and money-saving strategies to help travelers make informed decisions when flying from London to Vietnam.
Direct Flights from London to Vietnam
Vietnam Airlines operates direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi. These flights offer a quick and hassle-free travel option.
- Frequency: Four times a week
- Duration: Around 11 hours and 45 minutes
- Aircraft: Modern fleet with comfortable seating
- Average Ticket Price: £550 – £900 for economy class, £1,800 – £3,000 for business class
Direct flights are the fastest way to reach Vietnam from London, making them ideal for business travelers and tourists alike.
Connecting Flights and Airlines
Many airlines offer connecting flights to Vietnam with layovers in major hubs. These flights provide flexibility in pricing and scheduling.
- Air China: Stopover in Beijing – £400 – £700
- China Eastern Airlines: Stopover in Shanghai – £380 – £650
- Cathay Pacific: Stopover in Hong Kong – £450 – £800
- Korean Air: Stopover in Seoul – £500 – £850
Each airline offers different ticket prices and layover durations, allowing travelers to choose based on budget and convenience.
Major Routes and Destinations in Vietnam
Flights from London arrive at several key airports in Vietnam:
- Hanoi (HAN) – The cultural capital with historical sites and street food.
- Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) – A modern city with busy streets and skyscrapers.
- Da Nang (DAD) – A coastal city famous for beaches and heritage sites.
- Phu Quoc (PQC) – A tropical island with resorts and stunning landscapes.
Choosing the right destination depends on travel plans and interests.
Ticket Prices and Cost-Saving Tips
Flight prices vary based on season, airline, and booking time. Here are some tips to find the best fares:
- Book Early: Buy tickets months in advance for lower prices.
- Flexible Travel Dates: Flying mid-week is often cheaper.
- Set Price Alerts: Use travel platforms to monitor fare changes.
As of 2025, round-trip flights from London to Hanoi start at approximately £392 – £650, while flights to Ho Chi Minh City start at £336 – £600.
Best Time to Travel
The best travel time depends on the destination within Vietnam:
- Hanoi (North Vietnam): October to April – Cool and dry.
- Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam): November to March – Dry and pleasant.
- Da Nang (Central Vietnam): February to May – Warm with little rain.
Traveling during these months ensures good weather and a comfortable experience.
Budget Airlines and Alternative Routes
For budget-conscious travelers, some emerging airlines offer affordable flights to Southeast Asia:
- Norse Airways: Flights from London Gatwick to Bangkok from £203 one-way.
- Scoot Airlines: Budget flights from London to Singapore from £250 one-way.
Although these flights do not go directly to Vietnam, they provide an affordable alternative with a short connecting flight.
Travel Demand and Booking Trends
Long-haul travel to Vietnam has become increasingly popular:
- Travel agencies report a rise in bookings for Vietnam tours.
- Early booking is recommended to secure the best prices and availability.
- Last-minute bookings can cost up to 50% more compared to early reservations.
With growing demand, flights may fill up quickly, so planning ahead is key.
Visa and Travel Requirements
Before flying, check the entry requirements for Vietnam:
- Visa: UK passport holders can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days.
- Health: Check travel advisories for vaccinations.
- Currency: The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. Carrying some cash is recommended.
Preparing these documents in advance helps ensure a smooth journey.
Read Also: World Travel Insurance UK: The Ultimate Guide for 2025
Conclusion
Flying from London to Vietnam gives travelers many options. You can take a direct flight or stop in another city first. Since more people are flying to Vietnam, ticket prices can rise, especially in busy months. To save money, book at least three months in advance and travel between May and September when flights are usually cheaper. Another good way to save is by flying to cities like Bangkok or Singapore first, then taking a short flight to Vietnam, which can sometimes be more affordable than a direct flight. Whether you want to explore the busy streets of Hanoi, the modern buildings of Ho Chi Minh City, or the beautiful beaches of Da Nang, planning early will help you save money and have a smooth trip.
FAQs
- What is the cheapest airline for flights from London to Vietnam?
Budget airlines like China Eastern and Air China often offer the lowest fares, especially with stopovers. - How long is a direct flight from London to Vietnam?
A direct flight takes around 11 hours and 45 minutes from London to Hanoi. - What is the best time to book a flight to Vietnam?
Booking at least three months in advance can help secure the best prices. - Do UK travelers need a visa for Vietnam?
UK passport holders can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. For longer stays, a visa is required. - Which airport in Vietnam should I fly to?
Hanoi (HAN) is ideal for culture and history, Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) for business and nightlife, and Da Nang (DAD) for beaches and relaxation.