Ha Long Bay is 150 km from Hanoi, and your journey choice can shape your entire cruise experience. Choosing the wrong route or pickup time can lead to missed cruises, long delays, or unexpected costs. Let’s plan it right from the start.
Why Planning Your Transfer Matters
If you’re planning a trip to Ha Long Bay, one of the first questions you’ll face is:
👉 “What’s the best way to get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?”
The answer depends on your budget, comfort needs, time, and whether you’re booking a day cruise or an overnight trip.
In this detailed guide, we’ll compare:
- Travel time & cost for each option
- Pickup convenience from hotel or airport
- Comfort level
- Recommendations based on traveler type
Have a look at:
Distance from Hanoi & Noi Bai Airport to Ha Long Bay
- Hanoi Old Quarter → Tuan Chau Marina: ~150 km
- Noi Bai International Airport → Ha Long Bay: ~170 km
Average Travel Time:
- Expressway: 2.5–3 hours
- Older route via Bac Ninh (QL18): 3.5–4 hours (avoid if possible)
- Best Route: Hanoi → Expressway CT04 → Hai Phong → Ha Long
- Expressway tolls (~240,000 VND) may be charged separately if you’re booking a private car.
Where will you arrive? (Pier & Route Guide)
- Tuan Chau Harbor – most overnight cruises
- Hon Gai Port – for Bai Tu Long itineraries
- Got Pier (Hai Phong) – for Lan Ha Bay
➡️ Check out:
- Halong Bay International Cruise Port
- Hanoi to Ha Long Bay distance: BEST travel guide & transportation tips
What’s the best way from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?
Looking for the most convenient way to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Quick Comparison – All Transfer Options from Hanoi
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Option 1: Private Car – Best for Flexibility & Comfort
If you want to avoid crowds and travel on your own schedule, a private car is the best way to get to Ha Long Bay.
✅ Pros:
- Hotel or airport pickup/drop-off
- Comfortable for families or groups
- Can include stopovers (ex: ceramic village, café)
💰 Price:
- Sedan (1–3 pax): ~$95
- SUV (up to 5 pax): ~$115
- Minivan (up to 10 pax): ~$120
📌 Ideal for:
- Airport pickups from Noi Bai International Airport
- Traveling with luggage or kids
- Early morning cruise departures
Need help booking a reliable transfer to Ha Long Bay? 👉 📞 Call/WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
Option 2: Limousine Van – Most Popular Choice
Limousine vans are a shared yet luxurious option that balances cost and comfort.
✅ Pros:
- Spacious leather seats, A/C
- Free hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter
- Affordable pricing
💰 Price: ~$18–25 (one way)
⏱️ Travel Time: ~2.5–3h via expressway
📌 Best for:
- Solo travelers or couples
- Travelers joining shared cruises
🔍 Should I take a limousine or private car to Ha Long Bay?
- If budget is not a concern and you value privacy → Private Car
- If you want comfort at lower cost → Limousine
➡️ Recommended brands:
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Need help booking a reliable transfer to Ha Long Bay? 👉 📞 Call/WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
Option 3: Shuttle Bus – Budget but Slower
Shuttle buses are affordable but basic. Often used by backpackers or large tour groups.
✅ Pros:
- Cheapest option
- Hotel pickup in Old Quarter
⛔ Cons:
- Crowded, limited luggage space
- Slower travel time (3.5–4h)
💰 Price: ~$10–15 one-way
🚫 Not recommended for travelers with tight schedules or airport transfers.
There are three main bus stations where you can catch the Hanoi bus to Ha Long Bay, including: My Dinh station, Gia Lam station…
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👉 Read more:
Option 4: Seaplane – Scenic & Time-Saving (Luxury Only)
Want to see Ha Long Bay from the sky? Seaplanes by Hai Au Aviation offer a 45-minute scenic flight from Hanoi.
💰 Price: $185–275
✅ Includes:
- Aerial view over limestone karsts
- Ha Long Bay landing on water!
📌 Only 2–3 flights per day. Must book early.
➡️ Read more:
Final Tips – Choose Transfer Based on Your Cruise Type
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FAQs – Planning Your Transfer to Ha Long Bay
Round-Trip vs One-Way – What to Choose?
- If you’re doing an overnight cruise or heading to Ninh Binh or Sapa after Ha Long, book one-way.
- If you’re returning to Hanoi the same day, ask for round-trip deals (usually $25–30/person via limo).
📌 Some cruises offer free return transport if booked in advance.
Can I go from Hanoi to Ha Long and back in one day?
- Yes, but start early (around 6:30 AM) and take a 4–6 hour day cruise. Limousine transfer is recommended.
How do I get to Ha Long from the airport?
- Book a private transfer or seaplane. No direct bus/train from Noi Bai to Ha Long.
Is there a train from Hanoi to Ha Long?
- There is, but it’s slow (7+ hours) and not recommended for tourists.
Can I book transfers together with cruise?
- Yes! Many cruise providers offer package with transfer.
Book Your Cruise Transfer With Ease
Need help booking a reliable transfer to Ha Long Bay?
We offer safe, affordable, and verified private cars & limos.
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
📧 Email: info@hanoiexploretravel.com
