Ultimate Guide Travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the enchanting landscapes of Ninh Binh to the majestic shores of Halong Bay with this definitive travel guide. This Ninh Binh to Halong Bay guide will navigate you through every step of your adventure, from selecting the best transportation options to uncovering hidden gems along the way. Get ready to be inspired, as we reveal the secrets to making the most of your voyage between these two jewels of Vietnam. Let’s set forth on a journey that promises awe-inspiring views, profound cultural encounters, and memories that will last a lifetime!

Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Ninh Binh and Halong Bay

Exploring the breathtaking beauty of Ninh Binh and Halong Bay offers a stunning glimpse into the natural and cultural splendor of northern Vietnam. These destinations are known for their dramatic landscapes and rich history, providing unforgettable experiences for any traveler.

Ninh Binh: A Journey Through “Halong Bay on Land”

Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land,” features a landscape of lush greenery and majestic limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the ground. Here are highlights for discovering Ninh Binh:

• Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can take a boat ride through cave systems and along rivers framed by limestone cliffs.
• Tam Coc: Row down the Ngo Dong River in a small boat, passing rice paddies and through three natural caves. The best time for a visit is during late spring when the rice fields are a vibrant green.
• Bich Dong Pagoda: A beautiful pagoda set on the side of a hill, offering picturesque views of the surrounding nature.
• Hoa Lu: The ancient capital of Vietnam, featuring temple complexes dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, providing a deep dive into the history and architecture of the era.

Halong Bay: A Natural Wonder of the World

Moving northeast from Ninh Binh, Halong Bay is a vision of ethereal beauty and one of the world’s natural wonders, renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests.

• Boat Cruises: The quintessential way to experience Halong Bay is on a boat cruise, which can range from day trips to overnight stays. These cruises offer activities like kayaking, swimming, and visits to floating villages.
• Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): One of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay, featuring vast chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
• Ti Top Island: Known for its sandy beach and the panoramic views of the bay from the top of its hill.
• Local Seafood: No visit to Halong Bay is complete without trying its fresh seafood, particularly its grilled squid, shrimp, and oysters.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay distance

The distance between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay is approximately 200 kilometers (about 124 miles) by road. The actual distance can vary slightly depending on the specific starting point in Ninh Binh and the route taken to reach Halong Bay. Most road journeys take about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen.

The primary route is via the Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway, also known as CT04 or QL5B, which is the optimal route to reach Ha Long. This newly constructed highway spans 105.5 km, linking Hanoi and Hai Phong to Ha Long City. Serving as one of the six major infrastructure projects in northern Vietnam, this highway experiences significant daily traffic flow.

How to get from Ninh Binh to Halong

Here are some popular transportation options to consider before embarking on your journey from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay:

Ninh binh to halong bay train

If you’re prone to carsickness, opting for a train journey rather than traveling by bus or car might be a wise choice. However, it’s important to note that there isn’t a direct train route from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay.

To reach Ha Long Bay by train, you’ll need to take two separate trains. The first leg of the journey is from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, which typically takes around 2.5 hours. From Hanoi, you’ll then catch a second train to Ha Long Bay, which lasts approximately 7 hours.

For the Ninh Binh to Hanoi train route, there are five daily departures from Ninh Binh Train Station to Hanoi Railway Station. The earliest train departs at 3:20 AM and the latest at 4:50 PM. Various ticket options are available, including hard/soft seats and sleeping berths, with prices ranging from 2 to 10 USD.

From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, there are fewer train options, and only hard seats are available. The journey takes nearly 7 hours, which might be less convenient for tourists. However, if you’re intrigued by the experience of local Vietnamese rail travel, the train could offer an interesting alternative to consider.

Pros:

• Offer scenic views that you might not see from the road
• Provide more space to move around and are more comfortable for longer journeys
• Less likely to be affected by road traffic conditions

Cons: 

• Requiring a transfer in Hanoi or nearby stations
• Train schedules might not be as frequent as buses, which could limit your flexibility in planning
• The total travel time can be longer due to transfers and waiting times at the train station

Ninh binh to halong bay bus

When heading to Halong Bay from Ninh Binh, the two main transportation options are the local bus and the limousine bus, both offering distinct advantages.

The local bus, known for its affordability, typically costs between 8 to 10 USD per seat for a one-way transfer. These buses, accommodating around 45 passengers, may have limited amenities and occasionally lower-quality services. Travel time can extend to 4.5 to 5 hours due to multiple stops to pick up additional passengers along the route. While you’ll need to make your way to the bus station to catch one, local buses operate frequently throughout the day.

On the other hand, the limousine bus, classified as a tourist bus, offers a more convenient and comfortable travel experience compared to the local bus. With superior services and direct transfers, limousine vans only make scheduled stops, reducing travel time to approximately 3.5 hours. Prices for limousine buses range from 15 to 20 USD, inclusive of amenities such as air conditioning, complimentary water bottles, and free pick-up/drop-off services.

Consider your priorities – budget, comfort, and travel time – when selecting between these transportation options for your journey to Halong Bay.

Pros:

• The most economical option compared to train or private car
• There are direct bus services available, making it convenient without the need for transfers
• Buses run frequently throughout the day, providing flexibility in travel times

Cons: 

• Buses may be less comfortable than trains or private cars
• Can be subject to traffic delays
• Luggage space might be more restricted compared to trains or private cars

Ninh binh to halong bay ferry

Currently, there is no direct ferry service between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay in Vietnam. Travelers typically opt for other modes of transportation, such as bus, car, or train, to make the journey between these two popular tourist destinations.

The most common way to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is by road, either by hiring a private car or taking a bus. The journey by road can take approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.

If you’re looking for a more scenic route or want to incorporate some travel by water, you might consider traveling first to Hanoi and then taking a cruise from there to Halong Bay, as Halong Bay is well-known for its beautiful cruise experiences.

Read More: Ninh Binh to Cat Ba Island

Ninh Binh to Halong bay private car

For a comfortable and hassle-free journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, opting for a private car is the ideal choice. The round-trip cost for a private car varies depending on the vehicle’s size, with a 4-seater priced at around 170 USD, a 7-seater at 190 USD, and a 16-seat minivan at 230 USD.

The price includes fuel, water bottles, highway tolls, parking fees, and driver fees, but does not cover additional expenses such as entrance fees and tour guides.

There are two primary routes for traveling between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay:

Route 1: Ninh Binh → Nam Dinh → Hai Phong → Halong: This route spans approximately 197 km and takes around 3.5 hours to drive.

Route 2: Ninh Binh → Hung Yen → Hai Phong → Halong: The second route is slightly longer, covering about 220 km, but offers a shorter drive time of approximately 3.25 hours.

It’s advisable to select a car with more seats than the number of passengers to accommodate luggage comfortably. For example, a 4-seater is suitable for 2-3 passengers, a 7-seater for 5 passengers, and a 16-seater for 10 passengers.

Pros:

• The most flexibility, allows you to leave on your own schedule and make stops along the way
• More comfortable and better equipped than buses or trains
• The fastest way to travel if you avoid peak traffic times

Cons: 

• Hiring a private car is typically the most expensive option
• If you are driving yourself, navigating the local roads and traffic can be stressful

Suggested 3D2N Ninh Binh – Halong Bay itinerary

Day 1: Explore Ninh Binh

Morning: 

Start your day early by visiting the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a boat tour to see the caves and pagodas set among limestone karst peaks.

Afternoon:

After lunch, head to Tam Coc, known as the “Halong Bay on land.” Consider taking a bike ride through the countryside or another boat tour through the rice fields and limestone outcrops.

Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to see the temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and stay overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 2: Travel to Halong Bay

Morning:

Depart Ninh Binh early in the morning for Halong Bay by your chosen mode of transport (bus, private car, etc.). The journey should take about 4-5 hours.

Afternoon:

Arrive in Halong Bay and check into your cruise or hotel. After settling in, start your Halong Bay cruise experience. Activities might include kayaking, swimming, and cave visits.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner on the boat while watching the sunset over the bay. Participate in onboard activities such as squid fishing or simply relax under the stars. Stay overnight on the cruise.

Day 3: Halong Bay to Hanoi

Morning:

Wake up early to catch the sunrise over the bay. After breakfast, continue exploring Halong Bay with a visit to areas like Ti Top Island or Sung Sot Cave.

Return to the cruise ship for brunch and then begin your journey back to the Halong city pier.

Afternoon:

Disembark from the cruise and travel back to Hanoi or your next destination, marking the end of your trip.

Insider tips for a smooth journey

Navigating a journey between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay with ease and comfort involves a few insider tips that can make the trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some recommendations to enhance your travel experience:

• Avoid Peak Seasons: Travel during shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather.
• Check the Weather: The weather can significantly affect travel plans, especially boat trips in Halong Bay. Aim for clear, calm days for the best experience.
• Cruise Reservations: Halong Bay cruises are a highlight of the region. Booking early not only ensures a spot but might also give you better deals and cabin choices.
• Clothing: Bring comfortable, breathable clothing for the humid and warm climate. Include a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, as sudden showers are common.ư
• Local Eats: Try local delicacies in both Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Seafood in Halong Bay is particularly fresh and worth trying.

Ninh Binh to Halong Bay FAQs

Is there a direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?

No, there is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. Travelers typically take a train to Hanoi or Hai Phong and then continue by bus or car to Halong Bay.

What are the best sights to see in Ninh Binh and Halong Bay?

In Ninh Binh, top sights include Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. In Halong Bay, don’t miss the boat cruises around the bay, visits to limestone caves like Sung Sot Cave, and island visits like Ti Top Island.

What are the transportation options from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?

The main transportation options include:

• Bus: Several bus services run directly from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, offering a cost-effective and reasonably comfortable travel option.
• Private Car: You can hire a private car for more flexibility and comfort, though it is the most expensive option.
• Train: While there is no direct train to Halong Bay, you can travel by train to nearby areas like Hai Phong and then transfer to a bus or taxi.

We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need for a smooth and memorable journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. Whether you’re cruising through the karst landscapes or enjoying the tranquil waters of Halong Bay, these destinations are sure to leave you with lasting memories.