Hanoi to Halong Bay: 6 BEST Ways to Travel 2022

Hanoi to Halong Bay is one of the most popular travel routes in Vietnam, which is really convenient to travel back and forth. With a distance of 170 km and an upgraded transportation system, tourists can easily transfer by different choices. Let's look at the 6 best ways to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay and vice versa to find out the best option for you.

Thanks to the National Highway 5B (also called Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway) since the end of 2018, it takes only 2.5 hours to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Then you can save a lot of time on transportation for a day excursion.

If money isn't a problem, it's highly recommended that you should choose a luxury and private transfer.

 

 

Distance and Travel Time

• Distance: 170 km from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• Time: 
  • 2.5 hours via the new National Highway 5B (for 4-wheel vehicles only)
  • 3.5 hours via National Road No 18 (allows all vehicles)

Hanoi to Halong Bay map

 

There are many possible arrivals and departure points, and below is detailed information about some most popular travel routes from Hanoi Old Quarter.

Arrival location	Route	Distance	Travel time
Tuan Chau Pier, Halong	New Highway 5B	150 km	2 hours 30 minutes
	National Road No.18	145 km	3 hours 10 minutes
Halong International Cruise Port	New Highway 5B	155 km	2 hours 30 minutes
	National Road No.18	150 km	3 hours 20 minutes
Hon Gai Harbor, Halong	New Highway 5B	160 km	2 hours 40 minutes
	National Road No.18	155 km	3 hours 30 minutes

 

If you need to get more detailed information, you can find out from Distance & Travel Time from Hanoi to Halong Bay [Updated]

 

6 BEST Ways to Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Means of transportation	Travel time	Cost/ One way
Shuttle Bus (Most popular)	3 hours	US$ 10 - 15
Luxury Bus (Most comfortable)	3 hours	US$ 20 - 30
Private Car (Privacy)	2.5 hours	US$ 80 - 150
Motorbike (Most venturesome)	3.5 - 4 hours	US$ 6 - 8/ day
Train (Travel like a local)	7 hours	US$ 4 - 5

 

 

Shuttle Bus - Most Popular

Shuttle bus, also considered a 'tourist bus', is the most popular transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay. There are many types of Hanoi to Halong shuttle buses offering 9 - 45 seats and basic amenities like air conditioners, bottled water, etc. 

• Duration: 2.5 hours 
• Cost: ~ US$ 13/ one-way/ person with free pick-up and drop-off in the Hanoi Old Quarter. There will be a surcharge for picking up outside the quarter.
• Pros:
  • Economical: A cost-effective choice among the best ways of getting to Halong Bay from Hanoi
  • Convenient: Well-equipped amenities combined with good services
  • Direct transfer: Short travel time and direct transfer
• Cons:
  • Inflexible in time & schedule
• Best for: Tight budget travelers, Singles & Solo, Backpackers

Shuttle bus - the most popular way

 

How to book a shuttle bus?

Hanoi Old Quarter is the most popular pick-up point that every shuttle bus will pass by. Moreover, there are three major bus stops where the majority of local buses leave:

• My Dinh Station - 20 Pham Hung Street, My Dinh 2, Nam Tu Liem District
• Giap Bat Station - 06 Giai Phong Street, Hoang Liet Ward, Hoang Mai District
• Gia Lam Station - 09 Ngo Gia Kham Street, Long Bien District

Here are the recommended providers of shuttle bus services for you. The average price ranges around US$ 11 - 15/ one-way; however, you should remember how much money you pay, there is property to go with it.

If you want to meet your bus at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, you should book through BestPrice Travel to get the most special offer and supportive English travel guidance for you.

For those who are planning to join a Halong cruise, it is highly recommended you should book the transfer together with a cruise package for smooth pick up and drop off.

(Cost per pax/ round way)

Bus operator	Type of bus	Pick-up point	Ticket fare
KaLong	40-seat sleeper bus	My Dinh Station	US$ 24 - 30
Kumho Viet Thanh	9-seat limousine or Rosa bus	My Dinh Station	US$ 28 - 35
BestPrice Travel	29 - 35 seaters bus	Hanoi Old Quarter	US$ 28 - 35

 

Luxury Bus - Most Comfortable

In case you are in search of a more comfortable and high-end service, taking a luxury bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay is the best choice for your trip. Besides basic amenities like complimentary water and air-conditioner, a 9 - 16-seat luxury limousine provides the most enjoyable trip with higher standards. 

• Duration: 2.5 hours 
• Cost: ~ US$ 25/ one-way/ person
• Pros:
  • Comfortable: First-class facilities including free wifi, massage chairs, LCD screen, stereo, automatic doors, etc.
  • Pleasant services: English-speaking and welcoming drivers who can solve some basic problems
  • Straightforward and time-saving transport through the new highway
• Cons:
  • More expensive than a shuttle bus
• Best for: Affluent travelers, Families, Seniors

A luxury bus transfers to Halong Bay

How to book a luxury bus?

Not only the bus operators but also many cruise companies offer luxury bus transfers with pick-up and drop-off services. As normal, many travelers choose to book a luxury cruise, which includes a combo transportation package or sometimes free transportation.

For alternative options, take a look at the recommended bus providers as follow:

(Cost per pax/ round way)

Bus operator	Bus type	Ticket fare (2 ways)
Grouptour	9-seat limousine	US$ 36 - 40
Cruise Companies	9-16-seat limousine	US$ 40 - 50
BestPrice Travel	9-16-seat limousine	US$ 36 - 40

Private Car - Best Privacy

You can get a Hanoi to Halong Bay private car through cruise companies or tourist agencies like BestPrice Travel. You will be picked up and dropped off at the predetermined locations by the luxury limousine.

• Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours to transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter and Halong City via the new highway
• Cost: US$ 104 – 195/ round trip, depending on the types of car (4, 7, or 16-seat), length of excursion (1, 2, or 3-day), or your pick-up/ drop-off locations.
• Pros:
• Flexible: Adjustable schedule and easy-to-control itinerary
• More adorable: The lower price is due to the cost-sharing for group members
• More private: The best privacy and convenience in your own space
• Cons:
• High-cost
• Unnecessary charges
• Best for: Couples, Families with kids, Groups of friends, Business travelers

Private cars for those who want their own space

How to book a private car?

BestPrice Travel is confident to provide cheap private car service from US$ 80/pax/one way with full comfort and privacy for you.

Car type	One way	2 days	3 days
4 seats (max 2)	US$ 94	US$ 120	US$ 145
7 seats (max 4)	US$ 103	US$ 132	US$ 170
Minivan (max 8)	US$ 133	US$ 164	US$ 210

* The prices may change according to the price change of petrol and on holidays

* *The quotation not included the toll fee

 

Seaplane - A New Experience

You should bear in mind that there is no direct flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay. If you are looking for a mesmerizing way to explore Halong, a seaplane could be a one-of-a-kind experience.

• Duration: Only 45 minutes (additional 15 minutes for sightseeing)
• Cost: US$ 350 – 450/ one-way/ person (the airfare can vary depending on the season and time of day)
• Pros:
  • Fastest way: Private, fast, and up-to-date with complimentary Wi-Fi and the 4G Internet availability
  • Professional staff: Professional tourism services with experienced and well-trained staff who speak English fluently
  • Spectacular view: An extraordinary way to admire the spectacular aerial views of Halong Bay
  • Out-of-the-world: The most credible and exclusive seaplane provider to ensure your safety and valuable experience
• Cons:
  • Extravagant
  • Not suitable for people with heart attack and acrophobia
• Best for: Wealthy tourists, Couples, Active travelers

Breathtaking bay view from the seaplane

 

How to book by seaplane?

• Seaplane suppliers: Hai Au Aviation is the only provider of Hanoi to Halong Bay seaplane
• Scheduled flight: 45 minutes 
• Scenic flight: 15 minutes
• Departure port: Noi Bai International Airport - Counter E09, Lobby E, Terminal 1, Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi
• Arrival port: Tuan Chau Marina - Villa T7 Tuan Chau Commercial Urban Area, Tuan Chau Ward, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province

Hai Au Aviation offers a 45-minute scheduled flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay and a 15-minute scenic flight for sightseeing over thousands of awe-inspiring islets and rock formations. The seaplane departs from Hanoi Airport to Tuan Chau Marina, which is near the cruise port in Halong Bay.

Moreover, you can refer to these 3 seaplane tours with BestPrice Travel:

1. Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise with Seaplane 2 days
2. Combo: Orchid Cruise + Seaplane from Hanoi 3 days
3. Hanoi - Halong Bay Seaplane Flight

 

Motorbike - Most Venturesome

Alternatively, getting to Halong Bay from Hanoi by motorbike can bring you a more adventurous experience during your vacation.

• Duration: 3.5 hours - 4 hours, which is quite flexible and up to you
• Cost: ~ US$ 6 - 8/day for motorbike rental
• Pros:
• Adventurous: An unforgettable adventure especially for those who love nature and real-life experiences
• Proactive: A proactive and low-cost way to travel on two wheels
• Sightseeing: Great chance to behold the stunning mountains, captivating beaches, and other beautiful sightseeing on the way
• Unforgettable: Precious memory to share with your travel mates
• Cons:
• Dangerous
• Unexpected scams while renting a bike
• Best for: Independent backpackers, Adventure seekers, Young adults, Nature lovers

A traveler takes a photo to keep his motorbike traveling memories with his fellows

 

How to book a motorbike?

If you are in Hanoi, there are some motorbike rental centers such as AZ Motorbikes, Happy Zip Motorbikes, Tigit Motorbikes Hanoi, etc. that you can consider a rental.

Provider	Address
AZ Motorbikes (+84 984 916 785)	No. 55, Alley 76/35 An Duong Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Happy Zip Motorbikes (+84 924 715 678)	No. 449 - 451 Hong Ha Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Tigit Motorbikes Hanoi (+84 386 518 481)	No. 173 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

 

How to travel by bike?

Route 1: Hanoi – Bac Ninh – Ha Long

• Distance: 155 km
• Time: 3 hours

Follow the route from Hanoi, get to Sai Dong crossroad Highway No.5 (for about 10km), then via 23 km on Highway No.1, arrive at Bac Ninh province.

After that, follow Highway No.18 for about 122 km to respectively reach Pha Lai, Sao Do, Dong Trieu, Uong Bi, and eventually Ha Long.

 

Route 2: Hanoi – Hai Duong – Ha Long

• Distance: 170 km
• Time: 3 - 3.5 hours

Compared to the former one, this route is much longer (about 170 km), but more convenient.

From Hanoi, you can get to the county of Nam Sach, Hai Duong through Highway No.5B, then follow Highway No.183, to reach Halong.

 

Local Train - Travel Like a Local

Traveling by train to Halong Bay from Hanoi is the slowest and safest way, due to the authentic experience it brings you. It can be a great opportunity to admire and enjoy the stunning scenery on both sides of the railway.

• Duration: ~ 7 hours
• Cost: ~ US$ 4/one-way/person
• Pros:
  • Sightseeing: An ideal chance to enjoy the scenic views and take some excellent photos for your travel collection
  • Local: An authentic travel experience in Vietnam to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere
  • Budget: The cheapest and safest means of transportation compared to the roadway
• Cons:
  • Time-consuming
  • Inconvenient
  • Extra transport fees
• Best for: Culture vultures, Budget-conscious travelers, Singles & Solo, Backpackers

If you want to travel like a local, pick a train

 

How to book a train ticket?

There is only one way to take a train from Yen Vien Station, located northeast of Hanoi, to Halong Station, situated east of Bai Chay City. The total travel time is 6 hours and 45 minutes.

 

Yen Vien Station (Hanoi) - Halong Station

• Departure time: 4:55 am
• Arrival time: almost 12:00 pm

Halong Station - Yen Vien Station (Hanoi)

• Departure time: 1:45 am
• Arrival time: 08:30 pm

 

Station	Distance (km)	Departure (am)
Yen Vien Station	0	4:50
Bac Ninh	18	5:40
Bac Giang	38	6:15
Dong Trieu	107	9:20
Uong Bi	132	10:40
Halong Station	164	11:50

 

>> In general, there are 6 popular ways to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi. However, shuttle buses and private cars are the best choices thanks to the convenience and experiences.

 

The Reverse Way: Halong to Hanoi

Halong - Hanoi 

Transportation from Halong Bay to Hanoi Old Quarter often takes the same route. Booking round-trip tickets from shuttle bus companies and private automobile transfer firms will ensure a hassle-free trip if you already have a clearly defined travel itinerary.

In case you head for Hanoi Airport, the most convenient ways include the shuttle bus, luxury bus, and private car. In addition, the seaplane is also a great way to travel from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay, and vice versa.

 

Halong - Ninh Binh 

The province of Ninh Binh, also known as "Halong Bay on Land," is a must-see destination for anybody traveling through northern Vietnam. Ninh Binh is home to hundreds of limestone cliffs and picturesque riverine landscapes that resemble the scenery of Halong Bay. More unusually, Ninh Binh is home to numerous stunning Buddhist temples and rice fields that can be explored.

• Hanoi - Ninh Binh distance: 95 km
• Halong - Ninh Binh distance: ~ 200 km
• Halong - Ninh Binh travel time: 3.5 hours
• One-way transfer range: US$ 10 - 25 (limousine, train, or motorbike)
• Private transfer cost: US$ 100 - 150

Halong To Ninh Binh Route Map

 

An Alternative Route: Hanoi - Cat Ba - Halong

Hanoi - Cat Ba Island

• Distance: 170 km
• Transfer time: 2 hours by roadway & 0.5 hours by ferry transfer

Following the same highway to Halong Bay, you can get to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi in different ways: shuttle bus, private car, motorbike, and train.

>> You can check the fare of each transportation from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island here.

 

Cat Ba - Halong

• Distance: 20 km
• Transfer time: 30 - 45 minutes

Located in the South of Halong Bay, you can take one of three ways from Cat Ba Island ferry to Tuan Chau Harbor: ferry (1 hour), speed boat (30 minutes), and high-speed hydrofoil (10 minutes).

>> You can check the ticket fare to traverse around Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay here.

Take a Cat Ba Island cruise to get to Halong Bay

 

Recommended Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise

Many travellers choice to take a Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi then back to Hanoi after cruise. It's a convenience and save way to explore both Hanoi and Halong Bay.

What to expect

• Admire the best of Halong, Lan Ha, or Bai Tu Long Bay, including caves, floating villages, pristine islands, crystal beaches, etc.
• Relax onboard with a Tai Chi session, Vietnamese cooking class, night squid fishing, Happy Hour, sunset party, etc.
• Stay overnight in decent accommodations and excellent facilities 
• Enjoy sumptuous on-board meals of Vietnamese and European cuisine

From only US$ 169/pax for a 1-night and from US$ 313/pax for a 2-night cruise with a transfer from Hanoi for a deep exploration.

Join a cruise in Halong Bay

Recommended cruises

Cruise	Why book?	Price/pax
Mon Cheri	Best seller cruise 2022	US$ 170
Scarlet Pearl	Best modern luxury ship	US$ 178
Peony Cruise	Best cruise in Lan Ha bay	US$ 147
Paradise Elegance	Best service for 5-star ship	US$ 168
Heritage Binh Chuan	Best luxurious boutique cruise	US$ 186
Orchid Cruise	Best value luxury cruise	US$ 183
Capella Cruise	Best onboard activities	US$ 193

 

Local Tips for Various Traveler Types

For Backpackers and Self-travel tourists

Recommended vehicle: Shuttle bus

The best method to go to Halong Bay from Hanoi if you're traveling alone and on a tight budget is to take a shuttle bus (costing between US$ 14.12 and US$ 18.50/round trip) or a local bus (around US$ 9.25 - US$ 18.50/round trip).

One way, the entire transit duration ranges from 2.5 to 3 hours. Driving a motorbike is another option, however, it is not strongly advised. It will take around 4 hours, but the beautiful landscape along the route will be worth it.

The top recommended for backpackers is a shuttle bus

For Families with kids and Groups of friends

Top choice: Private car

When traveling in groups or with families, other people are usually present, and the protection of the youngsters is given great consideration. Therefore, renting a private car with a range of capacities based on the number of people is the best option. It takes 2.5 - 3 hours and costs between US$ 92.50 and US$ 140.76/one-way to get there.

The private car is best for families with kids

 

For couples and opulent travelers

Best suggestion: Seaplane

The most amazing way to travel is by seaplane, which is strongly advised if money is not an issue. Depending on the tourist season, the cost per person ranges from US$ 164.89 to US$ 361.95.

 

For elder tourists

Best recommendation: Luxury bus

From the age of 50, you should consider your health conditions before choosing any way to travel. Nothing can be compared with your health right now and it is the most important and major factor that affects your choice of transportation to get to Halong Bay. 

Luxury buses are high-quality cars (which is very important for your travel safety) and comfortable with a large space inside.

The luxury bus is best for elder travelers

Taking everything into account, consider what you expect during the travel time as each means of transportation listed above is perfect for a particular demand. Hope you find out how to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay and go exploring with BestPrice Travel.

BestPrice Travel