After exploring the peaceful landscapes of Ninh Binh, many travelers continue their journey back to Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital.
Because the distance is short and transport options are plentiful, traveling from Ninh Binh to Hanoi is simple — once you know which option suits your schedule and budget.
This guide explains distance, travel time, and the most common transport options to help you return to Hanoi smoothly and stress-free.

How far is it from Ninh Binh to Hanoi?
Ninh Binh is located approximately 95–100 kilometers south of Hanoi.
Depending on traffic conditions and transport choice, the journey usually takes:
- By car or limousine: ~1.5 hours
- By train: ~2–2.5 hours
- By local bus: ~1.5–2 hours
- By motorbike: ~2–2.5 hours
For travelers who only need mileage details, you can check our distance-only overview here.

How to get from Ninh Binh to Hanoi: Transport options overview
Thanks to a well-developed transport network, travelers can easily return to Hanoi using several convenient options.
Ninh Binh to Hanoi by Limousine Bus (Most Popular Choice)
- Best for: Comfort & convenience
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
- Price: ~250,000 – 450,000 VND/person
Why Limousine Buses Are Preferred by Tourists
- Comfortable leather seats
- Air-conditioning & Wi-Fi
- Frequent daily departures
- Door-to-door service
Limousine buses usually offer hotel pickup in Tam Coc, Trang An, or Ninh Binh city, and drop passengers directly in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or major districts.
Common operators include Trang An Limousine, Khanh An Limousine, X.E Vietnam, and Duy Khang Limousine.
If you plan to travel the opposite route later, see our guide for travelers starting from Hanoi.
Ninh Binh to Hanoi by Local Bus (Cheapest Option)
- Best for: Budget travelers
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Price: ~90,000 – 150,000 VND
Local buses depart from Ninh Binh Bus Station or Nho Quan and arrive at major Hanoi terminals such as Giap Bat, My Dinh, or Gia Lam.
⚠️ Note: Buses usually stop at bus stations, not hotels. A taxi or Grab ride may be needed afterward.

Ninh Binh to Hanoi by Train (Scenic & stable)
- Duration: ~2–2.5 hours
- Price: ~90,000 – 455,000 VND
Why Choose the Train for This Route?
- Fixed daily schedules
- Comfortable seating options
- Scenic countryside views
Trains connect Ninh Binh Station with Hanoi Railway Station on Le Duan Street.

Ninh Binh to Hanoi by Private Car / Taxi (Fastest & flexible)
- Best for: Families, groups, airport transfers
- Duration: ~1.5 hours
- Price: Higher than shared transport
Private cars offer maximum flexibility, hotel pickup, luggage space, and direct transfers — including to Noi Bai International Airport.
This is the fastest and most convenient option for travelers with tight schedules.
Traveling by Motorbike (For experienced riders)
- Best for: Adventure travelers
- Duration: ~2–2.5 hours
Motorbikes usually follow National Highway 1A. While scenic, this option is recommended only for experienced riders due to traffic and long riding time.

Which option should you choose?
- Most comfortable: Limousine bus
- Cheapest: Local bus
- Most relaxing: Train
- Fastest & private: Private car
- Most adventurous: Motorbike
Your choice depends on luggage, travel time, budget, and final destination in Hanoi.
Useful tips for traveling back to Hanoi
- Leave early to avoid traffic near Hanoi
- Confirm hotel pickup times for limousine services
- Carry small cash for buses and taxis
- Allow extra buffer time if heading to the airport
Planning more routes? Start with our Ninh Binh transport hub connecting other cities.
Conclusion
Traveling from Ninh Binh to Hanoi is fast and flexible, with options ranging from budget buses to comfortable limousines and scenic trains.
With a distance of just 95–100 km, most travelers can reach Hanoi in under two hours — making Ninh Binh a perfect stop before continuing your Vietnam journey.