Leaving behind the dramatic limestone karsts and winding rivers of Ninh Binh for the bustling port city of Hai Phong marks a transition from Vietnam's inland natural wonders to its maritime gateway. While Ninh Binh offers a serene escape into the countryside, Hai Phong serves as a vibrant urban hub and the primary jumping-off point for the world-famous Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island.
The journey between these two Northern Vietnamese gems is relatively short but involves navigating a mix of highways and, in some cases, ferry crossings if your final destination is the island district. Travelers can choose between the affordability of local buses, the door-to-door convenience of shared limousines, or the absolute comfort of a private vehicle. You can easily compare these options and book your tickets on GoAsia.cc to ensure a smooth transition between these contrasting landscapes.
Ninh Binh to Hai Phong by Bus
The bus is the most popular way to travel this route due to the sheer variety of service levels and frequent departures. Prices for a standard bus or a specialized tourist coach range from $8 to $27. Depending on the specific operator and the number of stops, the journey can take anywhere from 3 to 12 hours, though most direct tourist services complete the trip in about 4 to 5 hours.
For those looking for a bit more luxury, VIP 29 and VIP 33 buses offer reclining seats and more legroom. If you are heading straight to the coastal areas, many operators offer "Bus + Ferry" packages. These are particularly convenient as they include the water crossing in a single ticket, saving you the hassle of negotiating with local ferry terminals. In the evenings, you might even find Local Cabin or VIP 20 sleeper buses, which are ideal if you want to rest during the transit, though the short distance means you will arrive quite early.
Ninh Binh to Hai Phong by Van
Shared vans, often referred to as Limousines in Vietnam, provide a faster and more intimate experience than the larger buses. These vehicles typically seat between 9 and 13 passengers and feature plush leather seats, USB charging ports, and air conditioning. Prices for a van seat generally fall between $11 and $20.
The duration for a van trip is usually around 4 to 5 hours. Many van services include the ferry crossing to Cat Ba Island as part of the itinerary. The Limousine 13 and VIP Limousine options are highly recommended for travelers who value comfort and a slightly quicker pace through the Red River Delta traffic. Because these vans are smaller, they can often navigate city streets more easily than large coaches, sometimes offering more flexible drop-off points.
Ninh Binh to Hai Phong by Private Transfer
For families, small groups, or those carrying significant luggage, a private transfer is the most seamless way to travel. Private transfers offer the ultimate flexibility in terms of departure time and pick-up location, whether you are staying in the heart of Ninh Binh or the scenic Tam Coc area. Prices start at $73 for a standard sedan and can go up to $180 for a larger minibus or a high-end VIP van.
A private car is the fastest way to reach Hai Phong, with the quickest trips taking only about 2 hours and 40 minutes. You can choose from various vehicle types including 3-pax sedans, 4-pax or 5-pax SUVs, and 9-pax to 14-pax vans. Some specialized transfers even include the ferry logistics (SUV + Ferry) to take you directly to your hotel on the island side without any walking between vehicles.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $8 - $27 | 3h - 12h | Standard to High |
| Van (Limousine) | $11 - $20 | 4h - 5h | High |
| Private Transfer | $73 - $180 | 2h 40m - 4h | Excellent |
Tips for Traveling from Ninh Binh to Hai Phong
- Book in Advance: While there are many departures, the popular morning vans and VIP buses often fill up, especially on weekends when locals travel from the city to the countryside.
- Check the Destination: Hai Phong is a large province. Ensure your bus or van is going to the city center or the ferry terminal (Got Pier) depending on whether you are staying in the city or heading to Cat Ba.
- Tam Coc Pick-up: If you are staying in Tam Coc, look for operators that offer departures directly from there to avoid a taxi ride back into Ninh Binh city.
- Luggage Space: Shared vans have limited trunk space. If you are traveling with large suitcases, it is worth confirming with the operator or booking an extra seat to ensure everything fits.
- Ferry Transitions: If your ticket includes a ferry, keep your ticket stub handy. Sometimes you will need to walk onto the ferry and board a different bus on the other side.
Timetable
| Bus Ninh Binh - Hai Phong $ 7.37–26.40 3h – 12h | |
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| Taxi Ninh Binh - Hai Phong $ 71.49–174.92 2h 40m – 4h | |
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| Van Ninh Binh - Hai Phong $ 10.46–19.58 4h 30m – 5h | |
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| Bus Ninh Binh - Dao Cat Ba $ 6.52–24.10 3h 30m – 5h | |
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| Van Ninh Binh - Dao Cat Ba $ 12.74–13.65 4h – 4h 10m | |
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| Bus Tam Coc - Hai Phong $ 11.96–16.01 4h – 5h | |
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| Bus Tam Coc - Dao Cat Ba $ 12.00–16.07 4h – 4h 30m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Ninh Binh to Hai Phong directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel this route is by bus, with tickets starting as low as $8 for standard or tourist bus classes. These budget-friendly options are reliable and frequently depart throughout the day.
The fastest way to reach Hai Phong is by private transfer, which can complete the journey in approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. This option bypasses the multiple stops often made by shared buses and vans.
The duration varies by transport mode: private transfers take about 2.5 to 4 hours, while shared vans and tourist buses typically take between 3 and 5 hours. Some local bus routes with many stops can take considerably longer.
Vans, or Limousines, offer a more comfortable experience with better seats and fewer passengers for a slightly higher price (around $11-$20). Buses are more economical and offer more variety in departure times, making them a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Yes, many transport providers offer a combined ticket that includes the bus or van ride and the ferry crossing to Cat Ba Island. Look for options labeled 'Bus + Ferry' or 'Limousine + Ferry' to ensure a seamless connection to the island.
Yes, there are evening departures for cabin buses and sleeper buses starting around 18:30. However, given the short distance of the route, these often arrive very late at night or in the very early morning hours.