Getting from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

About the ride from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most popular destinations. With majestic limestone karsts and emerald green waters to gaze upon, gorgeous islands to explore, and a multitude of adventure activities to sign up for, there is little wonder why it is a must-visit destination when you travel to Vietnam.

The region surrounding Ninh Binh is no less alluring. Trang An, located a short distance from Ninh Binh, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its limestone caves and gorgeous green rice fields. Hop on a traditional boat, known as a sampan, and float down the river and discover hidden caves and ancient pagodas.

It takes between three and a half to four hours to cover the 125 mile distance (approximately 200 km) from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. A popular route for locals and tourists alike, there are many transportation options to choose from. You can pick from buses, minivans (shared and private) and private taxis.

Buses are popular and the most economical choice. Shared minivans are also a cost-effective option and offer morning and evening departure times. For those traveling as part of a bigger group, booking a private minivan may be an excellent option. Similarly, standard-sized cars and more spacious SUVs are a great choice for solo travelers, couples, and families with kids. They offer more legroom, the convenience of hotel pick up and drop and flexibility in terms of departure times and stops along the way.

How to get from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay

Taking a bus

Buses are among the most popular and budget-friendly ways to travel from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay. There are three bus options available for travelers per day. All of these buses leave Ninh Binh in the morning. Ticket prices start from $7.50 per passenger. All of the buses are air-conditioned and have cushioned seats. Some of the premium buses even have reclining seats and personal TVs for every seat. Travel time is around three and a half to four hours, including rest stops along the way.

Taking a minivan 

For those who don’t like to travel by bus, you can choose to travel by a shared or private minivan. Shared minivans offer morning and evening departure times, and with per passenger prices starting from $15, they are a relatively economical choice. Travel time is around three and a half hours and the vans make stops along the way for food and provide toilet breaks. For those who are traveling as part of a bigger group, you can also book a private minivan that can accommodate up to nine or ten passengers. With hotel pick up and drop off, it is a very convenient option for groups. 

Hiring a private car/taxi  

If you are traveling solo, as a couple or as a family, and don’t like the hassle of getting to and from a bus stop, then hiring a private taxi might be a good option. Standard cars that can accommodate up to three passengers are an excellent option for solo travelers and couples. For those traveling with kids and need space and flexibility in traveling, spacious SUVs that can accommodate up to five passengers are an excellent choice.

 

What to see when traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?

The journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay takes you through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside. Whether you are traveling by bus, minivan, or taxi, you can sit back, relax, and revel in its quaint charm as you see the magic of rural life unfold in front of you. Take a break, especially if you have a private vehicle at your disposal, and spend some time appreciating the quiet beauty of Vietnam, outside its bustling cities.