Ha Long Bay to Hanoi – How to Travel Smoothly in 2026

Ha Long Bay: Nature's Masterpiece Awaits You in Vietnam! — Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Ha Long Bay: A Must-Visit Destination! (Source: Collected)

Table of Contents

Why you need a return plan

After an incredible cruise around limestone karsts and emerald waters, it’s time to plan your smooth return to Hanoi. Whether you’re catching an international flight or exploring more of Vietnam, this guide will help you choose the right way to travel back based on your schedule, budget, and travel style.

📌 Reverse direction guide:

Stunning Natural Views from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi — Explore natural landscapes en route Ha Long Bay to Hanoi. (Source: Collected)

How far is Ha Long Bay from Hanoi?

Distance: ~160 km

Travel Time:

🚗 Private car/limousine: 2.5–3 hours

🚍 Bus/Coach: 3.5–4 hours

🚌 Shuttle bus: 3–3.5 hours

⛳ Starting points in Ha Long Bay: Tuan Chau Harbor, Hon Gai, Bai Chay, depending on your cruise.

Typically, the journey from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by car takes around 3 to 4 hours — The stunning natural scenery along the route from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi offers breathtaking views. (Source: Collected)

👉 Have a look at:

Best travel options from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi

Public Bus – Cheapest Option

✅ Ideal for budget travelers

⏱ Time: 3.5–4 hours

💰 Price: $5–$10

📍 Pickup: Bai Chay Bus Station

🧭 Drop-off: My Dinh or Gia Lam Bus Station (may not be central)

🏷️ Popular brands:

Daiichi Bus
Kumho Viet Thanh Bus
Hoang Long Express
Phuc Xuyen Shuttle Bus

👉 Insider Guide: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi Bus

Hoang Long Express Bus company — Hoang Long Express Bus is one of the major branches of a bus company. (Source: Collected)

Private Car – Door-to-Door & Most Comfortable

✅ Ideal for: Families, groups, business travelers

⏱ Time: ~2.5–3 hours

💰 Price: $80–$100/car (4–7 seats)

🚘 Pickup directly at the cruise pier

👉 Book direct via Private Transfer Service → Call/Message → What’s App: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535

Using a private car is convenient, but solo travelers may find it costly. — Although convenient, a private car can be pricey if you’re traveling alone. (Source: Collected)

Limousine van – Best comfort on a budget

✅ Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples

⏱ Time: 2.5–3 hours

💰 Price: $15–$20/person

🪑 Features: Leather seats, WiFi, bottled water

🏷️ Popular brands:

Duy Khanh Limousine
Phuc Xuyen Limousine
Cuong Phat Limousine
Hoang Phu Limousine

👉 Check out: Private Car vs Limousine to Ha Long Bay

Affordable Coach and Limousine Transfers Ha Long Bay to Hanoi Airport — Limousine bus is a Quick and Affordable Coach Transfers from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi. (Source: Collected)

Getting to Noi Bai International Airport from Ha Long Bay

If you’re flying out of Vietnam, you’ll need a transfer directly to Hanoi Airport – Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).

Best Options:

Transfer Type	Time	Cost	Best For
Private Car	2.5–3h	$90	Direct to departure terminal
Limousine van	3h	$20–$25	Shared, may not stop at airport gate
Seaplane or Helicopter	~45 minutes	$175–250 USD per person	Luxury travelers, honeymooners, or those short on time

👉 Read more guide:

A seaplane offers a unique and quick way to reach Ha Long Bay, providing stunning aerial views — Taking a seaplane is a fast option that grants you amazing views of the bay. (Source: Collected)

Comparison Table: Travel Options

Option	Time	Cost	Best For
Private car	2.5–3h	$95–$115	Families, door-to-door
Limousine	2.5–3h	$15–$25	Solo, mid-range comfort
Public bus	3.5–4h	$10–$14	Backpackers, low-budget
Taxi	2.5–3h	$115–$130	Urgency only