About the ride from Hoi An to Ninh Binh
The ancient trading town of Hoi An is a must-see for visitors to Vietnam.
Its quaint streets are dripping with both colorful lanterns and colonial charm. Its architecture is a medley of Japanese, Chinese, French and Vietnamese, and its authentic food is off-the-charts delicious.
Yet, as hard as it will be to tear yourself away from such a peaceful spot, northern Vietnam beckons with a wide array of attractions unavailable in the south. And, as you make your way up the country, a stop in the region of Ninh Binh will set the right tone for the wonders you’re about to see.
Ninh Binh shares its name with both the city and the province. Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” attractions such as Trang An have also made an appearance on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
With lush surroundings and authentic charm, Ninh Bihn is a great stopping point on your way to Hanoi. And even though the journey by bus or train will be a long one, we’re about to share the best ways to get there from Hoi An.
Top things to see and do in Ninh Binh
Basing yourself in Ninh Binh town, you have easy access to the area’s top attractions.
Here are some of the best things to see while in town:
Tour majestic Trang An. The UNESCO World Heritage inscribed Trang An Scenic Landscape is a serene setting of rivers and fields dotted with dramatic limestone karsts right out of the movies. For the most immersive experience, book a boat tour.
Climb to Huang Ma Viewpoint. Located between Trang An and Tam Coc is Huang Ma viewpoint. The climb should only take about 20 minutes up a sometimes-slippery set of stone stairs. At the top, you’ll be greeted with a stunning panorama you’ll be itching to share on your feed.
Take in the scenery on two wheels. Cyclists rejoice! The Ninh Binh region is perfect for exploration by bicycle. You’ll cycle through tiny villages and flooded rice paddies that will enhance your appreciation for the landscape and the people who call it home.
Follow the trail at Cúc Phương National Park. Cúc Phương National Park is a trekking hotspot for exploring the surrounding jungles. Whether you take a full-day guided tour or strike out on your own, you’ll get an up close and personal look at the beauty of Vietnam’s lush rainforest.
What to expect when traveling from Hoi An to Ninh Binh
There’s no getting around it. The trip from Hoi An to Ninh Binh is a long one. Depending on the option you choose, it can take anywhere from 12-17 hours — a portion of which will take place overnight.
Once you’ve come to grips with the reality of the logistics, prep yourself for the long ride by bringing along a book, downloading a movie or two, and catching up on some rest.
From Hoi An, you’ll head north across the former DMZ line and into the rural countryside of North-Central Vietnam. With the mountains to your left and the South China Sea to your right, you’ll make your way up the narrow spine of the country.
After passing through the Imperial City of Hue, you’ll be in for a long stretch of travel to get you to Ninh Binh.
How to get from Hoi An to Ninh Binh
The most practical method to cross the approximately 680 kilometers (422 miles) between Hoi An and Ninh Binh is to take a train or a bus. Each has its appeal, so we’ve provided a breakdown below to help you weigh your options.
Train
Travel time: 14-15 hours
Starting prices: $28
Taking a train from Hoi An to Ninh Binh is certainly the most romantic way to get between the cities.
The cheapest tickets are second-class seat tickets. A seat might recline and be padded, but it’s not the same as a sleeper ticket, which will allow you to sleep (in theory) on a horizontal mattress.
Seated tickets start around $28. Second-class sleeper tickets start at $40, and first-class sleeper tickets are about $50.
On board, you can expect air conditioning, a blanket for your bed, charging stations and restrooms for your overnight journey. Since you never know who your fellow passengers might be, a set of earplugs will ensure you get the rest you seek.
Departure times range throughout the day and even overnight, so plan accordingly and don’t be late!
Trains depart from Da Nang train station. Fortunately, this isn’t very far from Hoi An, and you can find cheap transportation there.
You’ll arrive at Ninh Binh Station. From there, you’ll have to make your way to your hotel in town or further afield.
Bus
Travel time: 12.5 to 17 hours, depending on the operator and the number of breaks taken along the way.
Starting prices: $17
Buses are not only the most economical option for the ride from Hoi An to Ninh Binh but offer the most variety in terms of departure times and creature comforts.
All buses are air-conditioned with deeply reclining seats (sleeper seats) to take the edge off the fatigue of the journey. Most will allow you one large bag plus a handbag, which is included in the price.
Some providers offer a blanket and pillow to counteract the chill, as well as WIFI and charging ports. But come prepared.
While most buses have restrooms on board, there will be opportunities to use the facilities at rest stations along your route. At the very least, you can stretch your legs.
Buses leave from preselected locations in Hoi An with drop-off at preset points in Ninh Binh. This will vary by operator, so be sure to take that into consideration when buying your tickets.
When is the best time of year to visit Ninh Binh?
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season between November and April. This translates to better weather for touring, climbing, cycling and trekking. It will also offer some mild relief from the ever-present humidity.
The only time you really want to avoid visiting Ninh Binh is at the height of the wet season from August to September.