Getting from Cao Bang to Hanoi

About the ride from Cao Bang to Hanoi

After the natural beauty of Cao Bang, venture down to the vibrant, exotic city of Hanoi. With amazing cuisine and a fascinating history, Hanoi has much to explore. Enjoy the thrilling nightlife and the exciting city experience. 

The trip from Cao Bang to Hanoi is 172 miles (277 km) and involves traveling by bus or car for several hours.

Keep reading to get all the details about the ride, things to do, and when to visit Hanoi.

Four fascinating things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi is an incredible city with a great deal of history and culture. 

Here are some not-to-miss experiences while visiting: 

1. Visit the Hoa Lo Prison. This prison, built by the French in the late 1800s, housed revolutionary Vietnamese prisoners. People who were charged with rallying for independence were often tortured and executed behind its walls.
   
   

In the late 1960s to early 1970s, American POWs were held there, and they dubbed it the “Hanoi Hilton.” As many as 114 American servicemen lost their lives as prisoners of war. Most of the prison was demolished in the mid-1990s, but what remains is a monument to the past. 

While this is not an easy place to visit, it is important to get a sense of the cost of war and the struggle for independence. It’s part of the history of the country. This somber and educational site is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets cost around $1.20 per person, and guided tours are available. 

2. Experience a show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. Water puppetry is an ancient art form in Vietnam. Traditionally, these performances would be featured in the villages during festivals or the Lunar New Year. 

There are several forty-five-minute performances per day. Tickets start at around $4, depending on the seats chosen, and there is an additional fee for taking pictures. 

It is important to dress modestly when visiting the theater. 

To have the best experience, rent a translation device to understand the performance thoroughly. 

3. Get your shopping on. Experience a traditional market in the big city with a visit to Dong Xuan Market. This large indoor market offers everything from produce and fresh food to textiles, handicrafts and souvenirs. 

In Southeast Asian style, Hanoi also has a weekend night market. It stretches from Hang Dao Street in the Old Quarter to the Dong Xuan Market to the north. This market is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings from 7 p.m. until late. Check out the local handicrafts, street food, live music and cultural performances.

4. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The embalmed body of beloved revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh is laid to rest at this important monument. 

It is open to the public 7:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m., Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday. It is best to arrive early to avoid the crowds. 

It is closed for several months of the year, usually between September and November. 

Tourists must behave respectfully and dress appropriately. Shoulders and legs must be covered. 

Additional monuments on the grounds include the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Stilt House. 

How to get from Cao Bang to Hanoi

There are two options for travel from Cao Bang to Hanoi: bus and car. 

Bus

Fares begin at $17 a person. 

The trip can take between seven and nine hours, depending on the operator, traffic, and if it makes any stops. Some operators have buses that make the trip once daily, while others offer the trip a few times per day. 

The buses have air conditioning, and most allow for a 44 lb/20 kg piece of luggage per passenger. Spend a few dollars more, and you’ll have even more comfort, like reclining seats with a footrest or a VIP option with individual cabins. 

Additionally, some operators offer WiFi, blankets and water. 

Car

A private car transfer is available from any hotel in Cao Bang to any hotel in Hanoi. Departure times are up to you — it’s your car.

Cars accommodating two passengers start at $188 per vehicle, and cars accommodating four people start at $206 per car.  

While a private car is the more expensive option, the journey only takes around five and a half hours. Amenities include A/C, drinking water, and all the comfort you’d have in a car. 

You are allowed one 44-pound (20 kg) piece of luggage and a handbag.

What to expect on the journey from Cao Bang to Hanoi

The driver makes occasional stops for restrooms and food. Many of the buses do not have restrooms, so be sure to disembark and use the facilities whenever there is an opportunity to do so. 

Since the journey takes a while, it is a good idea to bring a neck pillow or whatever you travel with that will increase your comfort on the long journey. Things like podcasts, books, and downloaded shows will make the trip fly by quickly.

While the private car choice may be more expensive, it is clean, comfortable and punctual. The drivers are safe and dependable, and you’ll have the utmost flexibility when making restroom stops along the way. 

When is the best time to visit Hanoi?

There are two good times to visit Hanoi; hopefully, one of them works with your schedule. 

Visiting between February and April is a great choice. It is sunny and warm but not unbearable. The high temperatures are between 62-82℉ (20-28℃). Flowers are blooming, and it is a beautiful time of the year. 

Another fabulous option for travel to Hanoi is between October and November. These months are sunny, too, and it tends to be less humid. The rainy season is over, and the weather is milder. The high temperatures are between 77-84℉ (25-29℃).

If possible, it is best to avoid traveling to Hanoi between May and September. This is the hot and humid rainy season.

How many days should you spend in Hanoi? 

To take in all Hanoi has to offer, it is best to stay at least three days. That will give you plenty of time to explore and see the key attractions of the city. 

Where to visit after Hanoi 

After experiencing the exquisite big city, how about heading off to a tropical paradise for a spell? Consider exploring lush jungles, pristine beaches and the limestone cliffs of Cat Ba Island. 

Only 88 miles (142 km) from Hanoi, the natural beauty of Cat Ba will not disappoint. The Cat Ba National Park is home to diverse flora, fauna, and several endangered species. It also connects to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.