Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, is renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. Located about 160 kilometers east of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is a must-visit for those exploring northern Vietnam. Whether you’re looking for a quick trip or a scenic journey, this guide covers all the ways to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, including buses, private transfers, and more. Remember, you can book your tickets easily through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay:
- By Bus: The most affordable and convenient way to travel.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The most comfortable and flexible option.
- By Train and Bus: An adventurous journey combining train and bus travel.
- By Seaplane: The fastest and most scenic option for a unique experience.
Each option offers different benefits in terms of travel time, cost, and comfort, which we’ll explore below.
Timetable
| Bus Noi Bai Airport - Halong Bay â‚« 630k 3h 30m | |
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| Taxi Noi Bai Airport - Halong Bay â‚« 1,747k–4,969k 2h 20m – 5h | |
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| Van Noi Bai Airport - Halong Bay â‚« 551k–658k 3h 40m – 4h 10m | |
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| Bus Hanoi - Halong Bay â‚« 505k 3h 30m | |
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| Bus Hanoi - Quang Ninh â‚« 185k–718k 2h – 3h 30m | |
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| Taxi Hanoi - Quang Ninh â‚« 1,259k–5,382k 2h – 3h | |
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| Van Hanoi - Quang Ninh â‚« 250k–2,811k 2h – 4h 30m | |
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| Bus Noi Bai Airport - Quang Ninh â‚« 814k 3h 43m | |
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| Taxi Noi Bai Airport - Quang Ninh â‚« 2,065k–4,724k 1h 55m – 2h 30m | |
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| Van Noi Bai Airport - Quang Ninh â‚« 592k–778k 3h – 4h 10m | |
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By Bus: The Most Affordable and Convenient Option
Taking a bus is one of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. There are several bus companies operating frequent services between the two destinations, offering a comfortable and direct ride.
Key Details:
- Departure Points: Buses typically leave from Hanoi Old Quarter or My Dinh Bus Station.
- Duration: The bus ride takes around 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
- Price Range: Bus tickets cost between 100 to 250 VND (~$5 to $12 USD), depending on the class of service.
- Bus Companies:
- Good Morning Cat Ba: Offers daily services with comfortable seating and air-conditioning.
- Sinh Tourist: A popular option among tourists, known for its reliable service and frequent departures.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option, perfect for solo travelers and those looking to save money.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
- Comfortable buses with air-conditioning and rest stops along the way.
Cons:
- Travel time may vary due to traffic, especially during peak travel periods.
- Buses may stop at several locations before reaching Ha Long Bay, adding time to the journey.
Onboard Experience:
Most buses offer comfortable seating with air-conditioning, and many services make stops for snacks and restrooms along the way. Some VIP buses offer reclining seats and extra legroom for a more relaxed journey.
Booking Tip:
Buses can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and high season, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance. You can compare bus schedules and book your tickets through our online search form.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Comfortable Option
For those looking for more comfort and privacy, hiring a private car or taxi is the best way to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. This option is ideal for families, small groups, or anyone wanting to avoid the hassle of public transportation.
Key Details:
- Duration: The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price Range: A private car or taxi costs between 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 VND (~$65 to $110 USD), depending on the vehicle and service.
- Route: The most direct route follows the Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway, offering a smooth and fast drive.
Pros:
- Most comfortable and private travel option.
- Direct service with no stops, making the journey faster.
- Flexible departure times, allowing you to choose when to leave.
Cons:
- More expensive than other travel options.
- Still dependent on road traffic conditions.
Booking Tip:
Private cars and taxis can be booked through local travel agencies, online platforms, or directly with your hotel. For the best rates and convenience, you can arrange a private transfer through our online search form.
By Train and Bus: The Adventurous Journey
Although there is no direct train to Ha Long Bay, you can take a train from Hanoi to Hai Phong and then transfer to a bus or taxi for the final leg of the journey to Ha Long Bay. This option offers a more scenic and adventurous route through northern Vietnam.
Key Details:
- Train Departure Point: Trains leave from Hanoi Railway Station to Hai Phong.
- Train Duration: The train journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Price Range: Train tickets cost around 100 to 150 VND (~$5 to $7 USD), depending on the class of service.
- Bus from Hai Phong to Ha Long Bay: After arriving in Hai Phong, you can catch a bus or taxi to Ha Long Bay, which takes another 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Bus Cost: Around 80 to 150 VND (~$4 to $7 USD).
Pros:
- Scenic train journey through the Vietnamese countryside.
- Affordable and ideal for travelers seeking a unique experience.
Cons:
- Longer total travel time due to the transfer from train to bus or taxi.
- Requires coordination between the train and bus schedules.
Onboard Experience:
Trains in Vietnam offer basic seating with air-conditioning, and some services have sleeper cars. While not the fastest option, the train ride is scenic and provides a more immersive travel experience.
Booking Tip:
It’s best to book your train and bus tickets in advance, especially during the high season. Use our online search form to book your train and bus tickets for a seamless travel experience.
By Seaplane: The Fastest and Most Scenic Option
For a truly unique and breathtaking experience, you can fly from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by seaplane. This option combines both speed and stunning aerial views of the bay’s famous limestone islands and emerald waters.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Seaplanes depart from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.
- Flight Duration: The flight takes around 45 minutes, offering spectacular views along the way.
- Price Range: Seaplane tickets cost between 4,000,000 to 6,000,000 VND (~$170 to $260 USD), depending on availability and season.
- Airline: Hai Au Aviation is the only provider of seaplane flights between Hanoi and Ha Long Bay.
Pros:
- Fastest way to reach Ha Long Bay, with the added bonus of stunning aerial views.
- A unique and luxurious travel experience.
- No need to worry about traffic or long bus rides.
Cons:
- The most expensive travel option.
- Limited availability, with fewer flights compared to other options.
Booking Tip:
Seaplane flights are in high demand, especially during the high season, so it’s recommended to book early. You can check availability and book your seaplane flight through our online search form.
Final Tips for Traveling from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is during the dry season, from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for exploring the bay.
- Plan for Transfers: If you’re traveling by bus or train, make sure to plan for possible delays or rest stops, and pack snacks and water for the journey.
- Book in Advance: Whether you’re flying, taking a bus, or using a private car, it’s best to book your tickets early, especially during peak tourist season. Use our online search form at the top of this page to compare travel options and secure your booking to Ha Long Bay.
