Detailed & Easy Guide: How to Get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay [Update 2026]

For many Northern Vietnam itineraries, traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is a natural next step. This guide walks you through all transport options, from buses and trains to private cars and motorbikes, helping you choose what best fits your schedule, budget, and travel style.

How to get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

The Ninh Binh to Halong Bay distance is roughly 200 km, with an estimated transfer time of 3.5 hours. Up to now, tourists have two primary routes to choose from:

Route 1: Ninh Binh - Ha Nam - Hai Phong - Ha Long: On the first route, the distance that needs to be covered is about 219 km, and you may spend approximately 3 hours 20 minutes getting there.
Route 2: Ninh Binh - Hung Yen - Hai Phong - Ha Long: The next one is slightly shorter at 194 km, but usually takes longer—around 3 hours 35 minutes—due to traffic conditions.

The first route is the fastest one for traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

Check out this table for a quick rundown of the 4 common transport options you can take to get to Halong Bay from Ninh Binh:

Means of Transport	Distance	Duration	Price
Shuttle bus	200 km	3.5 - 4 hrs	US $10 - $25/ way
Train	315 km	5 - 6 hrs	US $24 - $45/ way
Private car/ Taxi	200 km	3.5 hrs	US $70 - $110/ way
Motorbike	200 km	5 - 6 hrs	US $7 - $10/ day

To save the most time, you should opt for a taxi, as it offers the quickest and most direct route. For the shortest journey, consider taking buses, taxis, or motorbikes, which can navigate the route efficiently. Each option has its advantages, so choose based on your preferences for convenience and cost.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by local bus/ shuttle bus

Taking the bus is a popular and budget-friendly way to reach Halong Bay. For a more comfortable ride, you can opt for luxury vans featuring reclining seats, soft leather, and modern amenities, making the journey much more relaxing than standard buses.

Travel time: 3.5 - 4 hours
Cost:
- US $10 - $15/ way for a local bus
- US $15 - $25/ way for a limousine bus
How to book: Via a travel agency or booking platforms like 12Go.

There are two kinds of tourist buses available for your transfer from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, with over 500 shuttle bus departures daily, most frequently from 7:00 - 11:00 and 12:30 - 17:00.

Local bus usually consists of 45 seats, offering a budget-friendly way to travel, with fares ranging from US $10 to US $15 per person/ way. However, be prepared for a journey that can last up to 4 hours due to multiple stops along the way.
Shuttle bus, typically a 9–16 seater limousine bus, is a more convenient option than local buses, with fewer stops, a travel time of around 3.5 hours, and fares from US $15 - $25 including amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and USB charging.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by shuttle bus brings the ultimate in comfort for customers

In short, shuttle buses cost more than local buses, but the added comfort is worth it—they offer better amenities and shorter travel time thanks to fewer stops, as well as more direct routes using expressways rather than longer roads.

Let's have a look at a list of reputable bus operators providing transfer services from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay.

Company	Ninh Binh Limousine	DK Limousine	The Long Travel
Bus type	Shuttle bus	Shuttle bus	Local bus
Pick-up	Tam Coc, Ninh Binh	Tam Coc, Ninh Binh	Tam Coc, Ninh Binh
Drop-off	Tuan Chau/ Halong Cruise Port	Halong City	Tuan Chau, Halong City
Frequency	75 trips/ day	26 trips/ day	21 trips/ day
Depart time	Every hour (7:00 - 17:00)	Every hour (6:00 - 18:00)	Every 15 mins (6:45 - 7:45)
Price	US $15 - $19	US $17	US $10 - $16

>> Before you proceed with your online booking, be sure to consider the pros and cons of choosing a Ninh Binh to Halong Bay bus.

Pros	Cons
Reasonable price and essential amenities Direct transfer with pick-up and drop-off services Great convenience with regular schedules Fast and smooth rides, especially for shuttle buses without many stops A time-saving and cost-effective option	Slow because of local buses picking up passengers on the way Language barrier, especially on the local buses May cause motion sickness No personal space as you have to share with others

Don't miss

Book your tickets in advance to secure your seat and avoid any last-minute hassles.
Prepare some cash on hand for rest stops. Public buses often make a few stops along the trip, so it is a good idea to bring some local currency for snacks and refreshments.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by train

Taking the train is a classic way to enjoy the scenery along the journey. However, there is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, as the Ha Long train station is no longer in service. You’ll need to travel in two legs: from Ninh Binh to Hanoi by train, then continue from Hanoi to Halong Bay by bus or private car.

Travel time: 5 - 6 hours
Cost:
- US $7 - $25/ way for Ninh Binh - Hanoi train
- US $15 - $20/ way for Hanoi - Halong bus
How to book: Through the 12Go platform or contact a reliable travel agency

To transfer from Ninh Binh by train, you need to take a two-part journey.

First, travel from Ninh Binh to Hanoi by train, which takes around 2.5 hours. There are about 4 - 6 departures daily, with ticket prices ranging from US $7 to $25 depending on seat class.

Then, continue your way from Hanoi to Ha Long by bus, private car, or other means of transportation. This journey covers 127 km and takes approximately 2.5 - 3 hours via the expressway. Shuttle buses run frequently throughout the day, especially between 7:00 - 11:00 and 12:30 - 17:00, with prices from US $15 - $20 per person, while private cars cost around US $100 - $140 per person/ round way (4 - 11 seaters).

Here is the train timetable from Ninh Binh Station to Hanoi Train Station for your convenience.

Train No.	Schedule	Soft Seat	4-6 Beds Cabin
SE10	02:06 - 04:35	US $7	US $9 - $14
SE4	02:32 - 04:55	US $6	US $8 - $11
SE2	03:23 - 05:45	US $8	US $9 - $12
SE20	09:07 - 11:40	N/A	US $15 - $16
SE8	13:42 - 16:10	US $9	US $10 - $25
SE6	16:51 - 19:12	US $7	US $8 - $12

Price per person per way may vary by date and exchange rate

4-bed cabins on Ninh Binh - Halong Noi train for ultra comfort

The train provides both seating and beds compartments at different rates. If you wish to maximize your travel experience, you may want to use a sleeper berth onboard. They are more spacious and deliver a better sleep than standard seats.

BestPrice Travel has compiled the pros and cons of this option. Take a moment to review them before making your reservation.

Pros	Cons
The safest way with a minimum risk of accidents Scenic sightseeing and local experiences Comfy cabins, berths, and quite adequate facilities	The slowest and non-direct route Uncomfortable, uncleanliness, and the crowds May require sharing a room with others, with limited privacy Require a transfer by bus or car to reach Halong Bay

After the train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, choose the most suitable way to continue from Hanoi to Halong Bay.

Types of transfer	Price per pax
Luxury Shuttle Bus Transfer Hanoi - Halong Bay	From US $20
Private Transfer Hanoi - Halong Bay	From US $49

>> See detailed options in our Hanoi to Halong Bay travel guide

Don't miss

Train schedules and prices are likely to change due to various factors. Therefore, please verify the most recent information with Vietnam Railways before buying tickets.
Trains in Vietnam are, in most cases, safe and comfortable. However, be mindful of petty theft, especially when the train is making a night run.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by private car /taxi

A private car or taxi has defined itself as a quick, flexible, and desirable choice for groups or families traveling to Halong Bay from Ninh Binh.

Travel time: 3.5 hours
Cost: US $70 - $108/ person/ way
How to book: Book your private transfer with BestPrice Travel here

Private car or taxi is a great option for couples, groups or families traveling together. Prices are charged per vehicle per trip, ranging from US $210 - $280 (all-inclusive of fuel, tolls, and parking). Available options typically include 4-seat and 7-seat vehicles, allowing you to choose based on your group size.

Having an experienced driver by your side reduces lots of safety concerns

If you’re considering a private transfer for more comfort and flexibility, here are the key pros and cons of traveling by private car or taxi.

Pros	Cons
The fastest way with a more comfortable experience Proactive service & greater privacy Experienced, English-speaking drivers Flexible pickup time and the freedom to stop and rest along the way	The most expensive option Risk of scams when booking through less reliable providers

Want to get your car rental without any stress? Let BestPrice Travel handle it for you. Book now or chat with our friendly sales consultants.

Notes for renting a car or taxi

Pricing: Agree on the price before the trip and confirm any additional fees.
Driver: Select an experienced driver who is familiar with the route from Ninh Binh to Ha Long. Figure out if they speak English for easy communication as well.
Travel time: The journey from Ninh Binh to Ha Long takes about 3.5 - 5 hours, so be sure to bring water, snacks, and any necessary personal items.
Emergency contact: Keep the contact details of the driver and rental firm in case you need to contact them.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by motorbike

If you are up for an adventure, riding from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by motorbike is the perfect way to explore the local way of life and the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Travel time: 5 - 6 hours
Cost: US $7 - $10/ bike/ day (exclude fuel, around US $10)
How to book: At any bike shop in Ninh Binh; a passport may be required as a deposit.

You should take the QL1A - QL10 - QL18 Route, a motorcycle trip to Bach Dang and Bai Chay districts of Ha Long City can end in approximately 5 - 6 hours. By following this route, you can avoid highways and tolls that prohibit motorbikes.

The route to get to Halong Bay by motorbike

For those looking for a more adventurous and flexible way to travel, here are the key pros and cons of going by motorbike.

Pros	Cons
An economical way to get to Halong Bay from Ninh Binh Flexible itinerary without the time constraint Perfect for adventurers to conquer the beautiful road Enjoy breaks and meals along the road	Can be challenging and risky due to traffic and road conditions in Vietnam Not suitable for those with health issues or without a valid motorbike license The risk of accidents and unexpected cases on the way The rental and return process can be complicated

Experience the thrill of a motorbike ride from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

In general, the bus is the most practical option, offering a good balance of speed, convenience, and affordability. Train and motorbike are less ideal—trains require a two-leg journey, while motorbikes can be inconvenient as you’ll need to return them to the original rental location, making onward travel more complicated.

If budget isn’t a concern and you value comfort, flexibility, and privacy, a private car is the best choice.

Useful tips to get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable journey to Halong Bay.

Book your transport in advance and reconfirm with the provider to avoid last-minute issues
Choose an early departure to avoid traffic, as peak hours typically run from 7:00 – 11:00 and 12:30 – 17:00
Confirm your pick-up time and location with the provider a day in advance, and keep their contact number handy for easy communication
Pack light but essential items like a light jacket, comfortable shoes, and personal belongings—especially in summer when it can get hot
If traveling by car, bring motion sickness medication if needed and avoid bringing strong-smelling food onboard
If choosing a motorbike, look for rental shops that allow drop-off in Halong; otherwise, consider taking a bus and renting a bike in Halong for easier onward travel
Combining Ninh Binh and Halong Bay in a day trip is not recommended, plan at least 2 days to enjoy both destinations

What to do in Halong Bay

Once you arrive in Halong Bay, a cruise is the best way to experience its iconic limestone scenery and emerald waters. You can choose a day cruise (6–8 hours) for a quick overview, or an overnight cruise (2D1N, 3D2N, or 4D3N) to fully explore the bay with activities like kayaking, cave visits, and relaxing onboard. Scroll down to explore the different cruise options in more detail.

Price is per person per night, varying by cruise type and season

Cruise	Why choose	Price
Mon Cheri Cruise 5*	Best-value 5-star cruise with halal certification	From US $146
Catherine Cruise 5*	Luxury ship with premium facilities and classic Halong itinerary	From US $219
Lyra Grandeur 5*	Newly launched 5-star cruise exploring Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba	From US $239
Peony Cruise 4*	Best-rated 4-star cruise offering high-quality service	From US $136
Garden Bay Legend 3*	Small junk boat exploring the less-crowded Bai Tu Long Bay	From US $124
Amethyst Cruise 5*	Luxury day cruise with high-end lunch buffet	From US $59

What to expect when traveling on Halong Bay Cruise?

Must-see destinations: Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Titop Island, Pearl Farm (Halong Bay); Dark & Bright Cave, Ba Trai Dao Beach (Lan Ha Bay); Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village (Bai Tu Long Bay); Trung Trang Cave, Viet Hai Village (Cat Ba Island)
Well-planned activities: Kayaking, bamboo boat rides, swimming, soft hiking, cycling (Off-board activities); Squid fishing, sunset parties, cooking classes, games, spa services, etc. (Onboard experiences)
Included services: Cabin accommodations, all meals on board, sightseeing entrance tickets, and transportation during the cruise program (excluding transfers between Hanoi/Ninh Binh and Halong Bay)

To conclude, there are many ways to transfer from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. If you are pressed for time, a private car or taxi can get you there quickly. For a more affordable option, consider taking a public bus or shuttle bus.

Aside from all the information above, if you are interested in learning more, feel free to get in touch with BestPrice Travel for personalized advice.