From Ninh Binh to Halong Bay - Best Ways to Travel

Ninh Binh and Halong Bay are two of Vietnam’s most breathtaking destinations with a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. As you wander through the magnificent limestone karsts of Trang An or glide across the emerald waters of Halong Bay, you'll find that the journey connecting these enchanting spots is a must-do Vietnam itinerary. 

But how do you get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay? With no direct flights or trains, travelers must rely on road transport. This travel guide covers everything from buses and private cars to tours and helpful travel tips.

1. Route Options to Travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

How far is from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay? The distance from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is approximately 180 km (112 miles). Since there is no direct railway or flight connection, travelers must rely on road transportation. The main routes include:

• Via National Highway 10: This route passes through Nam Dinh, Thai Binh, and Hai Phong, a scenic drive through the Red River Delta's countryside. The transfer from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay takes around 3.5 to 4 hours by car or bus.
• Via Expressway CT01: This is the fastest and most direct route, cutting through Hanoi before continuing east toward Halong Bay. This option from Ninh Binh to Habong Bay reduces travel time to about 3 hours but involves expressway toll fees.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Routes

2. How to Get From Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

2.1. By Limousine Bus

Can you go from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay? Yes! A popular and comfortable choice, limousine buses from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay have spacious seating, air conditioning, and pick-up/drop-off services.

• Travel time: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
• Price range: $15 to $25 per person.
• Recommended operators: Trang An Limousine, Duy Khang Limousine, Ninh Binh Excursion Transport.
• Route: A typical limousine bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay follows Expressway CT01, passing through Hanoi for the fastest route.

Limousine buses from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

2.2. By Tourist Bus

Tourist buses are an affordable way to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, but they may take longer due to multiple stops.

• Travel time: 4 to 5 hours.
• Price range: $10 to $15 per person.
• Route: Often takes National Highway 10, passing through Nam Dinh, Thai Binh, and Hai Phong.

Types of car from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

2.3. By Private Car or Taxi

For convenience and flexibility, a private transfer from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is a great option of how to go from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay.

• Travel time: Around 3 hours.
• Price range: $90 to $130, depending on vehicle type.
• Recommended for: Families, groups, or those who prefer a direct and comfortable ride.
• Route: Usually via Expressway CT01, ensuring the shortest travel time.

Private car service from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

2.4. By Motorbike

For adventurous travelers, riding a motorbike from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay offers scenic views but requires experience and caution.

• Travel time: 4 to 5 hours.
• Cost: Fuel and rental fees total around $10 to $20.
• Route: Usually follows National Highway 10, passing through rural landscapes and small towns.

Motorbike from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

2.5. By Train (Indirect Route)

There is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. Travelers can take a train to Hanoi (2 hours) and then continue to Halong Bay by bus or car.

• Total travel time: Around 5 to 6 hours (including connections).
• Price range: Train to Hanoi $5 to $10, plus bus/car to Halong Bay $10 to $25.
• Route: Train to Hanoi, then bus or car via Expressway CT01 to Halong Bay.

Train in Hanoi

3. Suggested Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Tour

Combining Ninh Binh and Halong Bay in one trip is a great way to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty. As an experiential Halong Bay cruise operator, we’ll recommend some suggested itineraries based on your travel time from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay day trip.

Option 1: 3 Days 2 Nights Ninh Binh and Halong Bay tour

Day 1: Ninh Binh Sightseeing

• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam.
• Take a boat ride in Trang An, a stunning UNESCO site.
• Climb Mua Cave for a breathtaking view.
• Stay overnight in a peaceful Ninh Binh homestay.

Day 2: Travel to Halong Bay & Overnight Cruise

• Drive to Halong Bay in the morning (~3.5 hours).
• Board a luxury cruise, enjoy a seafood lunch, and relax.
• Explore Titop Island (swimming, hiking) and Sung Sot Cave.
• Enjoy dinner, sunset views, and activities like squid fishing.
• Stay overnight on the cruise.

Day 3: More Halong Bay & Return to Hanoi

• Try kayaking or visit a floating fishing village.
• Have brunch on board before heading back to the mainland.
• Return to Hanoi in the afternoon.

Bich Dong Pagoda in Ninh Binh

Option 2: 4 Days 3 Nights from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay tour

Day 1: Arrive in Ninh Binh, visit Bai Dinh Pagoda and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Day 2: Explore Trang An Grottoes, Mua Cave, and Bich Dong Pagoda, then travel to Halong in the evening.

Day 3: Enjoy a luxury overnight cruise in Halong Bay, visiting caves, beaches, and floating villages.

Day 4: Continue exploring Lan Ha Bay or Cat Ba Island, then return to Hanoi.

4. Tips to Get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

Traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is quite easy, and a few tips can make your trip smoother. 

• Both destinations are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit Ninh Binh and Halong Bay is from October to April. If traveling in summer (May to September), expect occasional rain but fewer tourists. 
• Pack light clothing for warm months, a jacket for cooler seasons, and comfortable shoes for exploring caves and pagodas. 
• There is no direct train or flight, so the most convenient way to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is by private car or limousine bus.
• Upon arrival, you should head to Tuan Chau Marina or Hon Gai Pier, as most cruises start around noon. If you arrive early, relax at a café near the port.

Halong Bay luxury cruise

What could be better than exploring both Ninh Binh and Halong Bay in one incredible trip? To make your experience even more complete, consider contacting Halong Bay Cruise Trip to book your Ninh Binh - Halong Bay tour now, with most of your journey!