How to Get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay? 4 Ways Updated in 2024

Northern Vietnam has some incredible, unique landscapes that are a must-visit for nature lovers. Halong Bay is the most famous, but Ninh Binh shouldn’t be overlooked. Both are home to towering limestone karsts set amidst stunning scenery. They’re also not too far apart and easy to visit together during one Vietnam tour.

How Far Is Ninh Binh and Halong Bay? About 200km with Location Map

Ninh Binh is a province about 90 km south of Hanoi. Ninh Binh City is a small inland city on the Red River Delta with a rich history dating back thousands of years. It’s famous in part for Tam Coc Bich Dong, a flooded cave karst system called ‘Halong Bay on Land.’ Tam Coc Bich Dong is only a 10-15 minute drive from Ninh Binh City.

The actual Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Gulf of Tonkin on the northeastern coast of Vietnam. It’s around 200 km northeast of Ninh Binh in Quang Ninh Province and 165 km east of Hanoi. Halong Bay is a major tourist destination and is easily accessible by road, rail, and flight.

The Easy and Favorite Way from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Is by Bus, with 2 Options

Buses are a popular way to travel between regional destinations in Vietnam. There are over a thousand that make the trip from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay daily. Depending on the type of bus you choose, the journey takes between three and five hours to cover the 200 km distance.

Limousine buses are the more comfortable and faster option. These spacious, modern buses have air conditioning and amenities such as complimentary water and WiFi. They make fewer stops along the way and travel for around 3-3.5 hours. They depart from various locations in Ninh Binh, such as Tam Coc, Trang An, and Ninh Binh City. Tickets are usually between 15-20 USD per person. They are a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

Local buses are the more budget-friendly option, with tickets costing 10 USD or less. Don’t expect many amenities. Buses may not have air conditioning, so make sure to check first. They will make more frequent stops, extending the travel time up to five hours. Local buses are an authentic experience, giving a glimpse of daily life in Vietnam.

Selected Bus Schedule

The Exotic Way from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Is by Train: about 7 Hours

Trains in Vietnam are a truly local experience. They offer great views of the countryside through the windows and smoother travel than by road. Although trains can be an interesting way to travel, they take longer than buses.

There is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, so the first step is to take a train to Hanoi. There are five departures each day from Ninh Binh Station to Hanoi Station. Tickets cost between 6 and 8 USD.

Ninh Binh to Hanoi Trains

To get to Halong Bay, it is necessary to take a train to Haiphong and then travel the rest of the way by taxi. Trains depart for Haiphong from Hanoi Station four times a day. Travel times are between 2h 25m and 2h 45m with tickets costing 6 USD for a 2nd class air-conditioned seat. From Haiphong, you can take a taxi to Halong Bay for around 30-45 USD. The trip takes around 45 minutes.

Hanoi to Haiphong Trains

The Exciting Adventure Way from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Is by Motorbike

Riding a motorbike is an adventurous way to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. Open-air riding gives an up-close experience of the natural scenery of northeastern Vietnam. You’ll be in control of your own trip and can stop to admire the scenery and take photographs whenever you like.

The route along QL1A – QL10 – QL18 takes 5-6 hours to drive. It travels toward the coastal area of Bach Dang Wharf with its glittering skyline and historic buildings, and then to Bai Chay before reaching Ha Long Bay. There are varied landscapes of forests, mountains, and coastline along the route.

Most of the roads are well-maintained, but it is important to pay attention for rougher sections of road. Make sure to rent a good quality vehicle. Motorbikes can be rented from many places in Ninh Binh. Prices are usually between 7 to 10 USD per day.

Ride a motorbike from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

Our Most Recommended Way from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Is by Private Car/Taxi

The most convenient and comfortable way to travel is by private car or taxi. Taking around three hours, a private vehicle can be booked to accommodate anyone from a solo traveler to a small group. Choose four-seat cars up to 16-seat minivans for enough space for passengers and luggage, and then relax, and the private driver will ensure you arrive safely.

The Red River Delta region is packed with beautiful scenery. Depending on the time of year, the vast rice fields can range from vibrant greens to golden yellows. There are intricate networks of rivers and canals feeding the fertile lands. You’ll pass through small villages with traditional architecture surrounded by rolling hills and distant mountain ranges.

Prices depend on the kind of vehicle. Four-seater SUVs start from around 75 USD. Vans that can seat nine people can cost between 125 and 175 USD. Big 16-seat minivans start from 230 USD.

You don’t have to worry about any of the details with one of our private tours. Transportation will be arranged from our fleet of local vehicles. A professional driver and dedicated English-speaking tour guide will take care of all the details. You’ll get the luxury of private tours at local rates. Our 1-on-1 travel consulting service can personalize your travel experience with door-to-door transportation between destinations. Indochinatour.com private tours take care of everything, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

7 Days Northern Vietnam Historical & Natural Tour Package

Hanoi – Sapa - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

More Insider Tips for Planning a Ninh Binh and Halong Bay Tour

1. Spring and autumn are the best times for great weather in Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Temperatures are mild, and the skies are clear with little to no rain.
2. Tours and cruises can fill up quickly, so make sure to book them in advance. Halong Bay, in particular, is a hugely popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.
3. Ninh Binh offers a wide range of accommodation options. For a unique experience close to nature, consider choosing a boutique hotel or eco-lodge.
4. Book an overnight cruise in Halong Bay to experience more of its wondrous natural scenery. Cruise lines offer all the amenities of a modern hotel while allowing guests to spend the night on the water.
5. When traveling by private car, it is recommended to book a vehicle with more seats than you need to ensure there is enough space for luggage.

Conclusion

Experience the natural wonders of northeastern Vietnam with a trip to Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Conveniently located near Hanoi, they offer a look into the unique landscapes that have formed in the Red River Delta and coastal regions.

Modern and comfortable buses are always available, private cars can let you make the trip in comfort, or try the more adventurous options of local trains or a motorbike trip. There are no wrong choices, just different ways to experience the region. Contact us anytime for more travel information about visiting Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.