In Hanoi’s bustling streets, the beauty of Halong Bay calls us to start an exciting journey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning limestone karsts and calm emerald waters. It’s a top spot for travelers looking for adventure or a relaxing getaway.
This guide will cover the best ways to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay. We’ll look at shuttle buses, motorbike rides, and more. You’ll learn about distance, travel time, and how to save money. This will help you plan the best trip to this amazing place.
Travel Hanoi to Halong Bay Key Takeaways
- Discover the various transportation options from Hanoi to the stunning Halong Bay
- Learn about the distance and travel time for different modes of transportation
- Explore the benefits and costs of private car transfers, shuttle buses, and limousine services
- Uncover the convenience of seaplane transfers and the adventure of motorbike journeys
- Plan your perfect Halong Bay vacation with our comprehensive transportation guide
Introduction to Halong Bay
Halong Bay is Vietnam’s top tourist spot, famous for its stunning natural beauty. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 2,000 limestone islands and islets. These islands rise from the sea off Vietnam’s northern coast. The area is filled with towering karsts, deep caves, and tiny formations around white-sand beaches. Halong Bay is a true marvel.
What is Halong Bay?
Halong Bay is a stunning natural wonder in the Quảng Ninh Province of Vietnam. It’s known for its unique geological features shaped by erosion and tectonic activity over millions of years. This has created a breathtaking landscape of limestone islands, each with its own unique charm.
Where is Halong Bay Located?
Halong Bay is near the coast of Northern Vietnam, a short drive from Hanoi. The closest big city is Halong City, where boat tours and cruises start. Most boats leave from the Halong Bay cruise port at Tuần Châu Island, just 13 km or 20 minutes from Halong City.
Why Visit Halong Bay?
- See the Halong bay Vietnam and its halong bay natural beauty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Take a Halong bay cruise on traditional wooden boats, called junks
- Find the Halong Bay attractions, like hidden caves, secluded beaches, and floating fishing villages
- Learn about the unique Halong Bay geography and Halong Bay map
- Enjoy the calm and peacefulness of this Halong Bay Unesco site
Halong Bay is a must-see for anyone visiting Vietnam. It offers breathtaking beauty, a rich culture, and many activities to enjoy.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
Distance and Travel Time from Hanoi
Exploring the stunning Halong Bay from Hanoi is a top choice for many travelers in Vietnam. Knowing the distance and how long it takes to get there is key for planning. Let’s look at the details.
Distance from Hanoi City Center to Halong Bay
The distance from Hanoi’s city center to Halong Bay is about 130 km. By Expressway, it’s a 2.5-hour drive. But, some say it’s closer to 170 km, with times ranging from 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 18 minutes, depending on the route.
Distance from Noi Bai Airport to Halong Bay
Noi Bai International Airport is about 30 km northwest of Hanoi’s center. It’s around 160 km to Halong Bay, taking about 2 hours and 35 minutes to get there.
Travel Time from Hanoi to Halong Bay
The trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours by car or van. With a stop for the bathroom, it’s around 3.5 hours total. Some routes, like the Hai Phong Expressway, can be done in 2.5 hours. But, taking the route through Bac Ninh province might add an extra hour.
Starting from Hanoi’s city center or the airport, getting to Halong Bay is easy. The distance and time make it a great spot for your Vietnam trip.
Travel from Hanoi to Halong bay by Local Bus
Visiting Halong Bay from Hanoi doesn’t have to be pricey. A budget-friendly choice is the Hanoi to Halong Bay bus. These local buses from Hanoi to Halong Bay are a great way to get there affordably.
Local Bus Routes and Stations
The main Hanoi to Halong Bay bus starts at My Dinh Station, Gia Lam Station, and Giap Bat Station. These stations are just 5-11 km from Hanoi’s center, easy for travelers to reach.
Local Bus Schedules and Fares
The Hanoi to Halong Bay bus schedule changes with each bus company, from early morning to late afternoon. The Hanoi to Halong Bay bus prices are low, from 120,000 to 250,000 VND one way. Companies like Kumho Viet Thanh and Phuc Xuyen offer this route.
Choosing the local bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay saves money and lets you see beautiful views. It’s perfect for those on a budget or who want a local feel. The Hanoi to Halong Bay bus is a smart and easy choice.
Travel by Shuttle Bus
Planning your trip from Hanoi to the stunning Halong Bay? Consider taking a shuttle bus. It’s a popular and easy way to travel. You get to relax and enjoy the view while others handle the trip.
Types of Shuttle Buses
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
There are many shuttle buses available for this route. You can pick from standard buses with 25 to 45 seats or luxury buses with extra comforts. These luxury buses often have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and free water.
Shuttle Bus Schedules and Fares
A one-way ticket from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Halong Bay costs between 180,000 to 300,000 VND. The price depends on the shuttle bus type and company. Here are some top companies and their prices:
- Luxury Trans Vietnam (from 255,000 VND)
- Ha Long Travel Limousine (from 260,000 VND)
- Trung Thanh (from 260,000 VND)
- Van Don Xanh (from 260,000 VND)
- Hoang Phu (from 240,000 VND)
- Cua Ong (from 240,000 VND)
- Duy Khanh (from 240,000 VND)
- Daily Limousine (from 250,000 VND)
- Phuc Xuyen (from 260,000 VND)
Popular Shuttle Bus Companies
Many reputable companies offer shuttle bus services from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Top companies include Luxury Trans Vietnam, Ha Long Travel Limousine, and others. They offer various shuttle options, from standard to luxury buses. You can choose based on your preferences and locations.
| Shuttle Bus Company | One-way Fare (VND) |
|---|---|
| Luxury Trans Vietnam | 255,000 |
| Ha Long Travel Limousine | 260,000 |
| Trung Thanh | 260,000 |
| Van Don Xanh | 260,000 |
| Hoang Phu | 240,000 |
| Cua Ong | 240,000 |
| Duy Khanh | 240,000 |
| Daily Limousine | 250,000 |
| Phuc Xuyen | 260,000 |
With many shuttle bus options and reliable companies, planning your trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay is easy. You’re sure to have a comfortable and stress-free journey.
Travel by Private Car or Taxi
Traveling from Hanoi to the beautiful Halong Bay by private car or taxi is a great choice. It lets you plan your trip and enjoy a comfy, personal journey.
Benefits of Private Car Transfer
Choosing a private car transfer has many perks. You can go at your pace, stop whenever you want, and skip the public transport hassle. It also means a luxurious, worry-free trip tailored to what you like.
Estimated Costs for Private Car Transfer
The price of a private car trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay changes based on the car type, tour length, and where you start and end. Prices for a full trip can be from 2,300,000 to 4,500,000 VND for a 4-, 7-, or 16-seat car. Or, you might choose a Grab car (taxi app) for about 1,600,000 to 1,900,000 VND round trip.
| Vehicle Type | Round Trip Cost (VND) |
|---|---|
| 4-seat vehicle | 2,300,000 – 2,800,000 |
| 7-seat vehicle | 3,200,000 – 3,800,000 |
| 16-seat vehicle | 4,000,000 – 4,500,000 |
Booking a private car for your trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay is a smart choice. It’s comfy and lets you see the bay on your terms. With different cars to choose from and good prices, it’s a great way to experience Halong Bay.
Limousine Bus Service
Traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay? The luxury limousine bus is a great choice for those wanting comfort and luxury. These buses offer a top-notch experience with many amenities for travelers.
Luxury Limousine Bus Features
Limousine buses on the Hanoi to Halong Bay route have many luxury features, such as:
- Massaging chairs for ultimate relaxation
- LCD screens for in-transit entertainment
- Integrated radio systems for personalized music enjoyment
- Complimentary Wi-Fi to stay connected during the journey
- Automated doors for easy and convenient entry and exit
These features make the trip more comfortable and fun. They also help make the time in transit more enjoyable and useful.
Popular Limousine Bus Companies
Many trusted limousine bus companies offer luxury services from Hanoi to Halong Bay, including:
| Company | One-Way Fare (VND) | Seating Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| VIP Anh Huy Limousine | 250,000 | 9 seats |
| Trung Thanh Limousine | 280,000 | 19 seats |
| Hoang Phu Bus | 300,000 | 19 seats |
These hanoi to Halong Bay limousine bus options provide a premium experience. They combine comfort, convenience, and luxury for a memorable trip to Halong Bay.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
Travel by Motorbike
Riding a motorbike from Hanoi to Halong Bay is thrilling and full of adventure. It gives you freedom and lets you see the beautiful nature up close.
Motorbike Routes from Hanoi to Halong Bay
There are two main motorbike paths to consider:
- The Coastal Route: This path goes along the coast, showing off the East Sea and fishing villages. It’s about 180 kilometers long and takes 4-5 hours, depending on how many stops you make.
- The Inland Route: For a trip through the countryside and mountains, take the inland route. It goes through green landscapes in Northern Vietnam. It’s around 160 kilometers long and takes about 3-4 hours.
Choosing either route, a motorbike trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay is an adventure you won’t forget. You’ll see amazing views and get to experience local culture.
Travel by Train
Traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by train is budget-friendly and convenient. The trip takes about 6 hours and 45 minutes. A one-way ticket costs around 92,000 VND per person.
The train leaves from Yen Vien station in northeast Hanoi at 4:55 AM. It arrives at Halong station in Bai Chay city at 11:41 AM. This makes it a great choice for those wanting to spend more time in Halong Bay.
Train Schedules and Fares
The train runs daily from Hanoi to Halong Bay with many departures. You can pick from different train classes to fit your budget and comfort. Train fares can be booked online or at the station for a smooth experience.
Train Stations and Booking Information
The train leaves from Yen Vien station in northeast Hanoi. You can buy tickets at the station or book them online in advance. This makes boarding easy and lets you enjoy your trip to Halong Bay.
Since the train is popular, booking your tickets early is a good idea, especially in peak seasons.
| Train Station | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Travel Time | One-way Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yen Vien (Hanoi) | 4:55 AM | 11:41 AM | 6 hours 45 minutes | 92,000 VND |
“The train is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay. The journey is relaxing and offers stunning views of the Vietnamese countryside.”
Whether you’re going for a day trip or a longer stay, the train from Hanoi to Halong Bay is a good option. It’s reliable and won’t break the bank. This lets you enjoy making memories in this beautiful place.
Seaplane Transfer
Looking for a unique way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay? Try a seaplane transfer. It’s fast and lets you see the bay from above. This mode of transport gives you a special view of the stunning scenery.
Seaplane Routes and Travel Time
The flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay by seaplane is about 45 minutes. You’ll see the bay from above. The seaplane from Hanoi to Halong Bay leaves from Noi Bai International Airport. It lands right on the bay’s water, making your trip smooth and quick.
Seaplane Fares and Booking Details
Prices for a seaplane from Hanoi to Halong Bay are between 4,100,000 VND and 9,000,000 VND. That’s around $175 to $385 USD per person. You can book this special flight through tour operators or travel agencies. They make sure your trip is easy and unforgettable.
“The seaplane transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay is truly a special way to experience the stunning beauty of the bay. The panoramic views from the air are simply breathtaking.”
To book a seaplane from Hanoi to Halong Bay, talk to trusted tour providers or Hanoi travel agencies. They know the best ways to book and will help you have a great trip.
Ha Long Bay is a stunning natural wonder in northern Vietnam. It’s famous for its limestone cliffs, calm emerald waters, and many activities. You can enjoy a peaceful cruise, snorkel in clear waters, or hike on Cat Ba Island.
Before you go to Ha Long Bay, check out the guide at Trekking Tours APA. It has tips on the best times to visit and the top places to snorkel and dive. You’ll also find info on great cruises and hikes on Cat Ba Island. This guide helps you plan your trip perfectly.
Ha Long Bay is a top spot for travelers wanting an unforgettable Vietnam experience. Dive into its beauty, find hidden spots, and make memories in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
