5 Best way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay: The most complete travel guide

Are you planning a trip from Hanoi to HaLong Bay and wondering what is the best way to travel? Don’t worry, the article “Best way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay: The most complete travel guide” will provide you with all the necessary information to choose the most suitable means of transportation. From cars, buses, trains to seaplanes, we will compare the pros and cons, travel time and cost of each vehicle. Besides, you will also find useful tips to have the smoothest and most comfortable journey. Let’s explore right this guide is to prepare for a memorable trip from the capital Hanoi to beautiful HaLong Bay!

Distance from Hanoi to HaLong Bay

Actual distance in kilometers and miles

HaLong Bay is located about 170 km east of Hanoi capital. The road connecting these two points runs along National Highway 18 and National Highway 10, passing through the provinces of Hung Yen, Hai Duong, and Quang Ninh. If calculated in miles, the distance from Hanoi to HaLong Bay is about 105 miles.

Depending on the specific starting point in Hanoi and destination in Ha Long Bay, the actual distance can range from 150-180 km (93-112 miles).

Estimate travel time by different means

Travel time from Hanoi to HaLong Bay depends on the vehicle and traffic conditions. Here are time estimates for each option:

1. Car/Taxi:
   • Time: About 2.5 – 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions and specific destination.
   • A car or taxi can take you straight to your hotel or pier in HaLong Bay.
2. Passenger car/Transfer car:
   • Time: About 3 – 4 hours, including travel time and intermediate stops.
   • Passenger buses usually depart from the central bus station in Hanoi and take you to the bus station in Ha Long.
3. Train:
   • Time: About 6 – 7 hours, including travel time and stopping time at intermediate stations.
   • The train from Hanoi usually ends at HaLong station, about 10-15 km from Ha Long Bay.
4. Seaplane:
   • Flight time: About 45 minutes from Hanoi to Van Don International Airport.
   • Total time: About 1 – 1.5 hours, including check-in time and travel to/from the airport.

Note that actual travel times may vary depending on weather conditions, traffic, and other factors. Planning ahead and allowing extra time will help you have a smooth trip from Hanoi to HaLong Bay.

The best ways to travel from Hanoi to HaLong Bay

Passenger car or transit vehicle

Advantages and disadvantages of taking a bus or shuttle bus

Taking a bus or shuttle bus is the most popular and economical choice for the journey from Hanoi to HaLong Bay.

Advantage:

• Ticket prices are cheaper than other means.
• Many options for departure time and bus company.
• Pick up and drop off guests at a convenient location in the city.

Defect:

• Travel time may be longer due to stops picking up and dropping off passengers.
• Comfort and amenities may be limited.
• Depends on traffic conditions on the road.

Reputable car companies and their schedules

Some reputable bus and shuttle bus companies on the Hanoi – Ha Long route:

1. Hoang Long Express:
   • Departing from My Dinh and Gia Lam bus stations, Hanoi.
   • Departure time: 07:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00.
   • Ticket price: From 150,000 – 200,000 VND/way.
2. Kumho Viet Thanh:
   • Departing from My Dinh and Luong Yen bus stations, Hanoi.
   • Departure time: Every hour from 06:00 to 18:00.
   • Ticket price: From 120,000 – 180,000 VND/way.
3. Luxury Van transfer vehicle:
   • Pick up guests at hotels in the Hanoi area.
   • Departure time: 07:30, 08:30, 13:30, 14:30 daily.
   • Ticket price: From 250,000 – 300,000 VND/person/way.

Rent a private car or taxi

Benefits of renting a private car or taxi

Renting a private car or taxi is a convenient and flexible option for groups or families.

Benefit:

• Privacy, comfort and spaciousness.
• Flexible in departure time and pick-up location.
• Move straight to your destination without stopping intermediate.

Estimated prices and suggested vehicle services

The price to rent a private car or taxi from Hanoi to HaLong Bay ranges from 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 VND/way, depending on the type of car and service provider.

Some reputable car services:

1. Hanoi Transfer Service
2. Hanoi Private Car
3. Vietnam Charming Car

It’s best to book your car at least 1-2 days in advance to ensure availability and a good price.

Train

Experience traveling by train from Hanoi to HaLong Bay

Taking the train is a fun and romantic way to explore the route from Hanoi to HaLong Bay.

Experience:

• Admire the Northern rural landscape from the train window.
• Experience more spacious space than a passenger car.
• Relax with a smooth ride that is less affected by road traffic.

Train schedules and ticket prices

The Hanoi – Ha Long railway has 2 main trains per day:

1. Train LP5 (Trip)
   • Departure: Hanoi Station at 06:10 am
   • Arrive at HaLong station at 11:35 am
   • Ticket price: From 85,000 – 200,000 VND/person/way, depending on seat class
2. Train LP6 (Return trip)
   • Departure: Ha Long Station at 1:40 pm
   • Arrive at Hanoi station at 6:50 pm
   • Ticket price: From 85,000 – 200,000 VND/person/way, depending on seat class

From HaLong station, you can catch a taxi or bus to get to the cruise ship terminal or hotel in HaLong Bay.

Seaplane

Unique experience flying from Hanoi to HaLong Bay

Flying by seaplane is a luxurious and unique experience to reach HaLong Bay from Hanoi.

Experience:

• Enjoy the stunning landscape of Ha Long Bay from above.
• Shorten travel time to only about 45 minutes by flight.
• Experience the feeling of landing on the water of Ha Long Bay.

There are two main seaplane operators providing services from Hanoi to HaLong Bay:

1. Hai Au Aviation
   • Depart from Noi Bai airport or Gia Lam seaplane terminal, Hanoi.
   • The flight lasts 45 minutes to Van Don airport, Quang Ninh.
   • Pick up and drop off service from Van Don airport to HaLong tourist wharf.
   • Ticket price: From 5,100,000 VND/person/way (including pick-up and drop-off).
2. Ha Long Seaplanes (Hai Au Seaplanes)
   • Depart from Noi Bai airport, Hanoi.
   • The flight lasts 45 minutes to the seaplane terminal in Ha Long Bay.
   • Transfer service from the seaplane terminal to the cruise ship terminal.
   • Ticket price: From 6,500,000 VND/person/way (including transfers and welcome drinks).

Note:

• Ticket prices may vary depending on season and availability.
• Seaplane flights are dependent on weather conditions.
• Tickets need to be booked at least 3-5 days in advance to ensure a seat.

Although ticket prices are significantly higher than other means, flying by seaplane offers a unique experience and saves significant time for the journey from Hanoi to HaLong Bay.

In addition to traveling by public or private transportation, a popular and convenient option to travel from Hanoi to HaLong Bay is to book a package tour. Below is some information about the package tour and its benefits:

Package tour from Hanoi to HaLong Bay

Package tours usually include:

• Two-way transportation from Hanoi to HaLong Bay by new, air-conditioned tourist car.
• Stay on a cruise ship or hotel in HaLong Bay.
• Meals according to the program.
• Professional tour guide.
• Tickets to visit tourist attractions in the program.
• Travel insurance.

Package tour duration is usually 2 – 3 days, with many different options depending on the customer’s needs and budget.

Benefits of going on a package tour

1. Convenient and time-saving:
   • No need to arrange your own transportation, accommodation, and tour itinerary.
   • The travel company will take care of everything, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.
2. Cost savings:
   • Package tour prices are often cheaper than booking individual services.
   • Travel companies can negotiate better prices with service providers thanks to bulk bookings.
3. Professional tour guide:
   • Your tour guide will provide information about history, culture, and attractions.
   • They will also assist you throughout your trip and resolve any issues that arise.
4. Safe and secure:
   • A reputable travel company will ensure service quality and safety for customers.
   • You’re also protected by travel insurance in case something goes wrong.

Reference right The most popular HaLong Bay package tours from Hanoi:

• Ha Long Symphony Cruise
• Pamela Cruise
• Erina Cruise
• Doris Cruise

However, package tours also have some disadvantages such as fixed schedules and less flexibility than going on your own. You will also have less free time to explore at your own pace.

Compare means of transportation

Factors to consider when choosing a means of transportation

When choosing means of transportation from Hanoi to HaLong Bay, consider the following factors:

Budget

• Buses and trains are the most economical options, with ticket prices ranging from 150,000 – 300,000 VND.
• Renting a private car or taxi costs more, from 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 VND.
• Flying by seaplane is the most expensive option, with prices ranging from 5,000,000 – 6,500,000 VND.

Travel time

• Seaplanes have the shortest travel time, only about 45 minutes of flight.
• Private cars and taxis take about 2.5 – 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
• The bus takes about 3 – 4 hours, including stops.
• Trains have the longest travel time, from 6 to 7 hours.

Comfort and convenience

• Private cars, taxis and seaplanes provide the most private and comfortable space.
• Trains have more space than passenger cars and are less affected by road traffic.
• Passenger cars have more limited comfort and amenities.

Scenery along the way

• Seaplanes offer stunning views of Ha Long Bay from above.
• Trains and buses allow views of the Northern countryside.
• Private cars and taxis can flexibly stop at beautiful spots along the way.

Suggested options according to needs

Based on the above factors, Pioneer Sail Travel suggests to you the most suitable choice as follows:

1. Budget travelers:
   • Choose a bus or train to save costs.
   • Accept longer travel times and limited comfort.
2. Tourists prefer convenience and comfort:
   • Choose to rent a private car or taxi to travel quickly and comfortably.
   • Flexible in pick-up and drop-off locations and schedules.
3. Tourists enjoy unique experiences:
   • Fly a seaplane to enjoy the landscape of HaLong Bay from above.
   • Experience landing on water and save travel time.
4. Tourists like to explore and sightsee:
   • Take the train to see the Northern rural landscape.
   • Plan to stop at attractions along the way.
5. Tourists traveling in groups or families:
   • Rent a private car or shuttle to travel together.
   • Choose a vehicle with privacy and spacious space.
6. Tourists want to fully enjoy the beauty of HaLong without worry
   • Choosing package tours with optimized itineraries by reputable tour organizers will help you experience a variety of activities and cultures.
   • However, you need to consider carefully to choose Reputable tour provider

Tips for a smooth trip

Ideal time to go from Hanoi to HaLong Bay

• September to November (autumn): Pleasant weather, little rain, and beautiful scenery with fall foliage.
• March to May (spring): The climate is warm, nature is full of life, and there are fewer tourists than in summer.
• Avoid summer (June – August) if you don’t like the heat and crowds, and winter (December – February) if you want to avoid the cold and fog.

Items to bring for the trip

• Identification documents such as ID card/passport and driver’s license (if driving).
• Cash and bank/credit cards.
• Clothes appropriate for the weather, including a light jacket for evenings.
• Comfortable footwear for walking and exploring.
• Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun.
• Insect repellent to prevent mosquitoes and insects.
• Personal medications and any specific medications you need.
• Camera/phone to preserve memories and backup battery.
• Some snacks and drinks for the trip.

Safety and health notes

• Always carry a copy of your identification documents and keep the original documents in a safe place.
• Be careful with bags and personal belongings in crowded places.
• Only use reputable taxi/motorbike taxi services and agree on the price before boarding.
• Take precautions such as washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask if necessary.
• Drink enough water, eat hygienically, and get enough rest to maintain good health.
• Bring motion sickness medicine if you get sick easily.
• Use caution when participating in activities such as swimming, boating, or climbing. Always follow safety instructions.
• If you encounter any health problems, do not hesitate to contact your tour guide or local medical facility for assistance.

With careful preparation and keeping in mind the above tips, you will definitely have a safe and memorable journey from Hanoi to HaLong Bay. Enjoy the trip, experience the amazing beauty of nature, and create wonderful memories with friends and family. Wishing you an interesting and fun trip!