How to Travel From Hanoi to Halong Bay

How to Travel From Hanoi to Halong Bay

Hanoi and Halong Bay are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. A visit to Vietnam is incomplete if you don't spend at least a day in either place. The distance between Hanoi and Halong is around 153 km or 95 miles. With that said, if you are in Hanoi and want to visit Halong Bay, this is the blog for you. BDATrip offers a variety of travel options and packages to make your journey smooth and enjoyable, whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a more immersive experience.

Best way to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay

By bus

Buses are generally a popular and cheaper way to travel from Hanoi to Halong especially with the Halong- Hai Phong expressway which has drastically cut down the time taken to reach Halong Bay. You can choose to book either the shuttle bus, limo bus, or local buses. The price varies depending on which option you choose. The journey will take around 2 to 2.5 hours and sometimes even up to 3 hours if you are traveling by local bus.

Vinh Ha Long is enchantingly beautiful
Vinh Ha Long is enchantingly beautiful

Local bus- There are several local bus companies that run daily to and fro Hanoi and Halong Bay. They are cheap and convenient especially if you're traveling on a tight budget. The average cost is around 160,000 VND.

Shuttle bus-  Most tour companies in Halong Bay provide shuttle bus services from Hanoi if you book with them. However, you can still book a shuttle bus even without having to be a part of a tour group. A shuttle bus trip will cost around 330,000 VND. 

Limo bus- Unlike its name, limo buses are actually not buses but more like luxury vans. Most limo buses provide WiFi, home picks up and drop off water, and comfortable seats. They are more expensive than the other two options, around 350,000to 400,000 VND but provide a more comfortable journey.

By private car

A private car is an excellent option if you're looking for comfort, privacy, and flexibility during your trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Whether you're traveling alone, with family, or in a group, this mode of transportation allows you to travel at your own pace, without the need to stick to rigid schedules or routes. It’s especially ideal if you want to avoid crowded buses or trains and prefer a more relaxed, direct journey. The drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route you take. One of the advantages of renting a private car is the comfort it offers, with air-conditioned vehicles ensuring a pleasant journey, even on warm days. Plus, you have the freedom to stop whenever you like, whether to take photos, stretch your legs, or explore local attractions along the way.

You can easily rent a private car through agencies like BDATrip or other local car rental services. The cost is usually around 1,500,000 VND for a one-way trip, which, depending on the number of passengers, can be quite economical, especially when compared to purchasing multiple tickets for public transport. Additionally, having a private car means you can enjoy a more personalized experience, with drivers who are often familiar with the area and can provide helpful tips or recommendations for your visit to Halong Bay. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or with a group of friends or family, a private car offers convenience, comfort, and a tailored travel experience.

By train

Traveling by train is the cheapest option available and is also the preferred choice among locals. It costs around 80,000 VND but takes a longer time, about 7 hours, to reach the destination. There is a daily train that departs from Yen Vien Station in Hanoi and reaches Halong City Station at 4:55 AM. If you're considering a Halong Bay tour from Hanoi, this train is a convenient way to travel. You can book your ticket online or at the station, but it is recommended to book online to save time and money, as well as to choose your own seat.

Go to Ha Long Bay by train
Go to Ha Long Bay by train

Check out this blog on the best things to do in Halong Bay.

By seaplane or helicopter

If you want to experience Halong Bay from a different angle, you can travel by seaplane. There are daily flights offered by Hai Au Aviation. The flights depart from Hanoi Airport and reach Halong Bay in around 45 minutes, making the seaplane the fastest way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay. However, it is quite expensive, with tickets starting from 4,200,000 VND, but the breathtaking scenery from the plane makes it all worth it. You can also take helicopter flights from Gia Lam Airport to Halong, which costs around 10,200,000 VND, with three flights per week.

Some activities in Ha Long Bay
Some activities in Ha Long Bay

By motorbike

If you are feeling adventurous and want to experience the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay in a more thrilling and personal way, traveling by motorbike is one of the best options. You can easily hire a motorbike from one of the numerous bike rental shops in Hanoi, with prices ranging from 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND per day. This option not only allows you to travel at your own pace but also gives you the freedom to explore the scenic countryside along the way. The journey takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on how fast you’re going and how many stops you choose to make to enjoy the views or grab a bite to eat.

Ha Long Bay is among the most impressive UNESCO heritage sites in Southeast Asia
Ha Long Bay is among the most impressive UNESCO heritage sites in Southeast Asia

Along the route, you’ll pass through bustling towns and villages, where you can experience the everyday life of locals, as well as beautiful rural landscapes, making the ride an unforgettable part of your trip. If you're looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the views of Halong Bay, you could also consider taking a Hanoi to Halong Bay cruise, which offers a more leisurely pace and an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful coastline from the water, combining the excitement of the journey with the serenity of the destination. Whether you choose to ride the motorbike or embark on a cruise, both options provide unique ways to experience the stunning beauty of Halong Bay.

So, there you have it, the different methods of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Which one would you choose? reach out to us at BDATrip, your one-stop shop for all tour Vietnam travel needs.

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