The journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most scenic travel routes. Many travelers combine these two iconic destinations to experience both the inland karst valleys and the breathtaking limestone seascapes in a single trip.
Overview Of Ninh Binh To Halong Bay
Traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is a popular choice for those who want to experience the full diversity of northern Vietnam. Few routes in Vietnam offer such a dramatic shift in scenery within a single day. Starting from the stillness of river valleys and ancient temples in Ninh Binh, the road gradually leads you toward the open sea, where limestone pillars rise from the waves in Halong Bay.
For many travelers, this journey brings together two contrasting yet harmonious worlds. One speaks of rural traditions, small boats, and misty rice fields; the other invites you onto cruises, into caves, and across endless blue water. Experiencing both allows visitors to see northern Vietnam not as a single destination, but as a journey through moods, textures, and time.
How Far Is It From Ninh Binh To Halong Bay?
The Ninh Binh to Halong Bay distance is approximately 200 to 220 kilometers, depending on where you depart and which route you take. This equals about 125 to 137 miles. Travel time usually ranges between 3.5 and 5.5 hours. Most visitors start from central Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, or Trang An, and arrive at Halong City or Tuan Chau Marina, the main gateway to cruises.
There are no direct train connections between the two destinations, so road transport is the most practical option. Private cars, limousines, and buses are the most popular choices, with morning departures being ideal for travelers joining a day cruise. If you’re planning to move between these places in one day, consider traffic and weather conditions to avoid delays.
How To Travel From Ninh Binh To Halong Bay?
The journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay connects two of northern Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes. While there’s no direct train, several road options make the trip easy and scenic.
By Motorbike
Traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay by motorbike is a rewarding option for confident riders who want complete freedom over their journey. It’s best for those who already have experience riding in Vietnam or similar countries, and who don’t mind dealing with unpredictable weather, uneven roads, or occasional truck traffic near cities like Hai Phong. An International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorbike category is recommended, and helmets are required by law.
The route is scenic and quiet for most of the way, offering a more personal view of rural Vietnam. You can take breaks whenever you want, grab a bowl of noodles at a roadside stall, or explore small towns that most travelers never see. Just be sure to check your motorbike carefully before the trip, carry essentials like water and cash, and avoid riding after dark.
| Aspect | Details |
| Route | Ninh Binh → Nam Dinh → Thai Binh → Hai Phong → Halong (via QL10 or QL18). You’ll pass through flat countryside and several provincial towns. |
| Distance | Around 200–220 kilometers, depending on your exact departure and arrival points. |
| Travel Time | Approximately 6 to 8 hours of riding, depending on road conditions and rest stops. |
| Suggested Stop | Nam Dinh (after 60–70km): good place for early lunch and a fuel refill. Small roadside cafés and local food stalls are easy to find. Thai Binh City (after 120–130km): ideal for a short break. There’s a central gas station and shaded areas for rest. Outskirts of Hai Phong (after 170–180km): the last major stop before Halong. Rest here if needed, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic |
By Bus or Minivan
A Ninh Binh to Halong Bay bus or a Ninh Binh to Halong Bay limousine minivan is also one of the most to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. This alternative is affordable, is all over the place, and fits most travellers, including backpackers and families. It’s especially popular among those who have just explored some of the things to do in Ninh Binh and are heading east toward the bay. The journey can also take 3.5 to 5 hours.
There are a lot of operators for those routes, but the quality (degree of comfort, rates, and even the arrival points) can differ greatly. Other services provide a hotel pickup and drop-off in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh city and either Tuan Chau Marina or Bai Chay. Others can only get to the fringe of Halong, which requires a small transfer. The comparisons listed below are some of the trusted companies:
| Vehicle Type | Price (VND) | Travel Time | Notes |
| Standard sleeper bus(open layout, 40–44 beds) | 250,000 – 350,000 VND | 4.5 – 5.5 hours | A basic overnight or daytime option with shared berths. These buses usually stop at Bai Chay and may include detours through Hanoi. Best for budget travelers who don’t mind less comfort. |
| Limousine van(9–11 seats) | 280,000 – 400,000 VND | 3.5 – 4.5 hours | Reclining leather seats, A/C, Wi-Fi, and fewer stops make this a comfortable choice for families and couples. Some services include hotel pickup/drop-off in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh City, convenient if you’re staying near key sights or traveling during the best time to visit Ninh Binh. |
| Premium minivan(newer models, VIP seating) | 320,000 – 450,000 VND | 3.5 – 4.5 hours | These vans offer extra legroom, smoother rides, and direct transfers to Tuan Chau Marina or Bai Chay. Ideal for those with cruise connections or limited time. |
| Tourist shuttle bus | 270,000 – 350,000 VND | 4 – 5 hours | Often used by international tourists. Pickup from central Ninh Binh is included, but final drop-off may be on the edge of Halong, requiring a short taxi transfer. |
By Private Car
The most convenient and adaptable way is to reserve a Ninh Binh to Halong Bay private car. This option fits well for an individual, a couple, or a group seeking privacy and a stress-free journey. It is pricier than a bus or a limousine, but used by many travelers because of the comfort of being picked up at the hotel and the luxury of stopping their ride whenever they want. It’s a popular choice, especially in Ninh Binh in March or October, when weather conditions are perfect for travel.
| Car Type | Estimated Price (VND) | Travel Time | Best For |
| 4-seater sedan | About 2,000,000 – 2,500,000 | 3.5 to 4.5 hours with stops | Ideal for couples or solo travelers who want privacy and a comfortable ride without spending too much. Fits 2 people with luggage comfortably. |
| 7-seater SUV/MPV | About 2,500,000 – 3,000,000 | 3.5 to 4.5 hours with stops | Great for small families or groups of 3–5. Offers more space and comfort for longer rides, plus enough room for luggage and travel gear. |
| 9-seater van | About 3,000,000 – 3,500,000 | 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on stops | Best for business travelers or groups needing extra space. Reclining seats, Wi‑Fi, and strong A/C make the ride relaxing and productive. |
| 16-seater van | About 3,500,000 – 4,200,000 | 4 to 5 hours, depending on pace | Best for large groups who want to stay together. Spacious and cost-effective when shared. Flexible option for families or multi-family travel. |
Recommended Stops Along the Way
Though the route from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay can be covered with no stops, having a rest on the way will allow getting rid of fatigue more easily and make the path more colorful. Several small towns and roadside locations provide convenient locations to fill up, stretch, and see what life in the area looks like. These are some of the detours that can be made along the way:
Nam Dinh City
Nam Dinh is a nice place to have a local breakfast or a coffee break (about 60 kilometers away from Ninh Binh). There are fuel stations, supermarkets, and shaded cafes in the city centre, a few minutes off the main roadway. It is also not as congested as the larger cities, so it becomes a low-stress place to relax.
Thai Binh City
Thai Binh makes a good stop about one-half of the trip across the country. It’s a good place to take a break for drivers and motorcyclists, too. Neither city is a tourist city, but Thai Binh has many local options for food, ATMs, clean bathrooms, and petrol stations. The bonus is that Thai Binh has flat fields surrounding the city, which result in peaceful roadside views.
Outskirts of Hai Phong
Before reaching Halong Bay, the area near Hai Phong is the logical final stop. This is a place where you can find convenience stores, fast food restaurants, and gas stations, or, best put, as they are relatively close by. It is a good place to stop for this short break before entering a busier cruise port zone, especially if you are close to noon check-in times.
Roadside Lookouts & Villages
Though the route is mostly flat, you’ll pass through several farming villages and rice fields. While not marked as scenic stops, a few roadside stalls or shaded benches offer a moment to enjoy the view and interact briefly with locals. Drivers familiar with the route may suggest safe, informal pull-over points.
Tips For Traveling From Ninh Binh To Halong Bay?
The route between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay isn’t long, but smart planning can make your trip more relaxed and less rushed. A few small details, like timing, seat choice, or drop-off points, often make a big difference in comfort.
- Although the distance is not far, the journey can go wrong if small details are overlooked. These tips are based on actual issues many travelers have experienced on this route.
- Limousine vans that include direct drop-off at Tuan Chau Marina are more convenient for travelers joining a cruise.
- Morning departures around 7:00 or 8:00 help ensure you arrive in time for cruise check-in, which usually starts before noon.
- Some operators list “hotel pickup” but only stop at main roads; it is important to confirm your pickup point after booking.
- Roads near Hai Phong can be bumpy and congested, so sitting in the middle of the vehicle helps reduce motion sickness.
- Booking platforms may not show the exact drop-off location, so asking the operator directly is often the safest option.
- Passengers on budget buses are sometimes dropped off far from the port, which may lead to delays in reaching the cruise.
- Be aware that most rest stops cannot take credit cards and carry small bills in local currency in hand.
- Before you enter Thai Binh and Hai Phong, plan on fueling up. Between these two cities, there is more room in-between petrol stations.
- Heavy traffic near Halong City is common during weekends or holidays, and cruise check-in delays are not always flexible.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay brings together two different slices of Vietnam: one inland, slow-paced, and green; the other open, coastal, and world-famous. With good timing and the right transport, the journey can feel just as rewarding as the places themselves. Seni World is based in Vietnam and knows these routes inside out. We’re here to help you make the most of every part of your trip, including the road in between.
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