How to travel from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh in 2026?
After exploring the limestone islands and emerald waters of Halong Bay, many travelers continue their journey south to Ninh Binh — often called “Halong Bay on land”.
Whether you’re traveling independently, finishing a cruise, or planning your next destination after Halong Bay, this guide explains all realistic transport options between Halong Bay and Ninh Binh — clearly, honestly, and with updated 2026 information.
This article focuses on how to get there, not selling tours or rushing itineraries, so you can choose the option that truly fits your travel style.
Halong Bay to Ninh Binh – Distance & Travel Overview
- Distance: 170–210 km (depending on route)
- Average travel time: 3–5 hours
- Fastest options: Private car, limousine van
- Cheapest option: Local bus
- Best overall value: Limousine van
- Best for families: Private car
🔍 Best Route (2026 Updated):
Halong → Hai Phong Expressway → Nam Dinh → Ninh Binh
→ Fast, smooth, fewer traffic bottlenecks.
Departure Points in Halong Bay:
- Bai Chay center
- Tuan Chau Port
- Hon Gai / Sun Premier area
- Halong International Cruise Port (see Cruise Port module below)
Drop-off Points in Ninh Binh:
- Tam Coc
- Trang An
- Ninh Binh City
- Bai Dinh
👉 Planning what to do after arrival? See: Things to do in Ninh Binh
5 Best Ways to Travel from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh
Below are the most practical transport options, ranked by comfort, speed, and suitability for different travelers.
Limousine Van – Most Popular (Comfort + Value)
The Limousine Dcar vans (9–17 seats) are the top choice for most travelers looking for a clean, comfortable, and efficient transfer.
- Travel time: 3.5 – 4 hours
- Price: 350,000 – 550,000 VND/person
- Pick-up: Bai Chay, Hon Gai, Tuan Chau
- Drop-off: Tam Coc, Trang An, Ninh Binh City
- Facilities: Leather seats, AC, Wi-Fi, USB ports, bottled water
- Why choose: Comfortable + affordable + direct
✅ Best for: Solo travelers, couples, small groups
✅ Best value for money
💡 Pro Tip: Limousines are often fully booked on weekends — reserve 24h in advance via WhatsApp for guaranteed seats.
👉 Planning a day trip after arrival? Consider: Ninh Binh Day Tour
Private Car – Fastest & Most Convenient
For travelers who want privacy, flexibility, and door-to-door comfort, a private car is the fastest way from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh.
- Travel time: 3 – 3.5 hours
- Price: from 3,000,000 VND/car (~130 USD)
- Vehicle: Sedan / SUV / 7-seat
- Pick-up: Any hotel or cruise port in Halong
- Includes: English-speaking driver, tolls, fuel, water
✅ Perfect for: Families, groups, travelers with luggage or limited time
✅ Zero waiting, zero hassle
Why choose a private car?
- Fastest route
- Total flexibility
- Ideal for connecting from cruise → Ninh Binh
- Safer and more comfortable than local buses
Local Bus – Cheapest (But Slowest)
The local bus is the best budget option — but expect a slower, less comfortable journey.
- Travel time: 5–6 hours
- Price: 160,000 – 200,000 VND
- Pick-up: Bai Chay Bus Station
- Drop-off: Ninh Binh Bus Station
- Makes multiple village stops → slower travel
⚠ Warnings:
- Avoid unofficial vendors around stations
- Protect your belongings
- Expect a more basic service
✅ Recommended only for budget travelers with flexible time.
Train (Indirect Route via Hanoi)
There is no direct train from Halong to Ninh Binh.
You must transfer via Hanoi:
- Halong → Hanoi Train – around 6 hours
- Hanoi → Ninh Binh Train – 2–2.5 hours
- Total: 8–9 hours
✔ Good for travelers who enjoy slow journeys
✖ Not recommended for tight schedules
👉 If you choose this route, read full guide:
- How to Get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
- Ha Long Bay to Hanoi – Complete 2026 Guide for International Travelers
Motorbike – Scenic but for Adventurers Only
For thrill-seekers, the route offers countryside views and a sense of freedom.
- Travel time: 5–6 hours
- Cost: 200,000 – 300,000 VND/day
- Route: QL18 → Hai Phong → Thai Binh → Ninh Binh
⚠ Safety notes:
- Heavy traffic near Hai Phong
- Avoid driving at night
- Wear full protective gear
- Check brakes, tires, lights before departure
✅ Best for backpackers, vloggers, adventure travelers.
Quick Comparison – Which Option Fits You Best?
| Option | Duration | Price (VND) | Comfort | Best For |
| 🚐 Limousine Van |
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| 🚘 Private Car |
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| 🚍 Local Bus |
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| 🚆 Train + Bus |
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| 🏍️ Motorbike |
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★★★☆☆ |
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Sample Itineraries & Booking Tips
🕐 1-Day Transfer + Cruise Connection
If you’re ending a Ha Long Bay cruise and heading straight to Ninh Binh:
- Book a 7:30–8:00 AM limousine.
- Arrive in Ninh Binh around 12:00 PM, perfect for an afternoon Trang An boat tour.
- Stay overnight in Tam Coc for sunset views.
🕓 2-Day Scenic Route Suggestion
- Day 1: Depart Ha Long → stop for lunch in Hai Phong → arrive in Ninh Binh by afternoon.
- Day 2: Explore Trang An, Mua Cave, and Bai Dinh Pagoda before heading to Hanoi or Hue.
🚢 Cruise Transfer Sync
- Ask your cruise operator for direct transfer options from the harbor (e.g., Tuan Chau or Hon Gai) to Ninh Binh.
- Many premium cruises now offer door-to-door limousine transfers.
👉 If you plan a short stopover, consider a Ninh Binh Day Tour — perfect for travelers coming from Ha Long or Hanoi.
👉 You can also extend your trip with a full Ninh Binh Tour Package to explore Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Cave comfortably.
Practical Travel Tips
🕗 Best departure time: Morning before 8:00 AM for clear traffic.
💼 Luggage: Keep valuables close; use backpacks or small suitcases.
🌦 Weather: Avoid heavy rain season (July–September).
💰 Money: Prepare small VND notes for food stops or restrooms.
📶 Connectivity: Buy a Vietnamese SIM card (Viettel or Mobifone) for GPS and WhatsApp.
🛡 Safety: Wear seatbelts, check reviews before booking transport.
👉 Travel Tip: The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from late January to May, when rice fields turn golden and weather is dry and pleasant.
FAQ – Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh Travel (2026 Update)
How far is it from Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh?
- The distance is around 170–210 km, depending on your route. It takes 3.5–5 hours by car.
What’s the fastest way to get to Ninh Binh?
- A private car or limousine van is the fastest and most comfortable option (around 3.5 hours).
Is there a direct train from Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh?
- No, you’ll need to transfer via Hanoi if you want to travel by train.
Can I travel from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh?
- Yes! You can take a speedboat to Hai Phong, then a limousine or bus to Ninh Binh (≈4.5 hours total).
👉 Read full guide: How to get to Ninh Binh from Cat Ba island
How much is a private car from Ha Long to Ninh Binh?
- Around 3,000,000–3,500,000 VND per vehicle (fits 3–4 people).
Do limousines pick up at Tuan Chau port?
- Yes, most limousine companies offer hotel or cruise-port pickup from Tuan Chau, Bai Chay, or Hon Gai.
What’s the best time to travel?
- Early morning departures are best to avoid congestion and reach Ninh Binh before noon.
Conclusion & Final CTA
Traveling from Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh is not just a transfer — it’s a journey from the sea to Vietnam’s heartland of limestone peaks and rice fields.
Whether you choose a comfortable limousine, a private car, or an adventurous motorbike ride, the route promises unforgettable views and local charm.
📞 Ready to plan your journey? Chat now on WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 or +84 914 815 535
