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How to travel from Hanoi city to Halong bay: A complete guide
The journey from Hanoi city to Halong Bay offers some convenient travel options including buses, limousines, trains, private cars and seaplanes. This guide will help you get the best way to reach the bay, whether you’re looking for comfort, speed or scenic views.
01 Jul, 2025
Traveling from Hanoi city to Halong Bay is one of the most popular routes in northern Vietnam, offering a scenic transition from the lively capital to the serene beauty of one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Whether you’re drawn by the bay’s towering limestone cliffs, peaceful waters, or famous cruises, getting there is the first step to an unforgettable adventure.
This complete guide covers everything you need to know about traveling from Hanoi city to Halong Bay, including buses, limousines, trains, private cars, and seaplanes. You’ll also find useful travel tips, travel times, cost comparisons, and suggestions to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Make your journey from Hanoi city to Halong Bay smooth and worry-free—with Hanoi Voyages, you’re in expert hands every step of the way.
Table of Contents
Hanoi City to Halong Bay: Distance and travel time
The distance from Hanoi to Halong Bay is approximately 155 to 170 kilometers, depending on your departure point in Hanoi and your destination within the Halong area (such as Bai Chay Port, Tuan Chau Harbor, or Hon Gai).
From Hanoi City Center to Halong Bay: approximately 155–160 km
From Noi Bai International Airport to Halong Bay: around 170–180 km
Travel time from Hanoi to Halong Bay varies depending on the mode of transportation. For more details, keep reading to find out which mode of transport suits you best for the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
How to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi: Transportation options
For most travelers taking a Vietnam trip, figuring out how to get to Halong Bay is an essential part of their itinerary. Fortunately, there are several convenient and flexible transportation options that cater to every budget and travel style. Let’s find out!
By private car
Average time: about 2 - 2.5 hours
Cost: Round-trip Hanoi to Halong Bay and return (same day or next day): From $150–$200 USD, but it can vary depending on vehicle type, seats or other services
Traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by private car is one of the most convenient and comfortable options - perfect for families, small groups, or travelers who value flexibility. With a private car, you can choose your own departure time, stop along the way, and enjoy a stress-free ride directly to your hotel or cruise port.
For the return trip from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi, you can easily pre-arrange your private car pickup with the same provider or through your hotel in Halong. The travel time and cost are generally the same as the outbound trip.
Advantages and disadvantages of taking a private car:
ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
Flexibility: You can choose your own departure time, make rest stops, and travel at your own pace. Comfort: Private cars offer air-conditioned, quiet, and spacious seating - ideal for families or small groups. | Higher cost: This way is one of the most expensive options, especially for solo travelers. Needs advance booking: Private cars may not be available on short notice during peak season. |
By local bus
Average time: about 4 - 5.5 hours
Cost: One-way ticket: Approximately 100,000 – 250,000 VND (around $3.8 –$9.6 USD) per person. Prices vary slightly depending on the bus company and departure point.
For budget-conscious travelers wondering how to get to Halong from Hanoi, taking a local bus is one of the most affordable options. While not the most comfortable or fastest way to travel, it’s a great choice for those looking to experience local life and save on transport costs.
Hanoi to Halong bay bus usually departs from: Gia Lam Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station, Giap Bat Bus station. It's best to arrive early, as seats can fill up quickly - especially during weekends and holidays.
To return from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi, you can catch a local bus from Bai Chay Bus Station back to the same stations in Hanoi. Travel time and cost are similar to the outbound trip.
Advantages and disadvantages of taking a local bus:
ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
Low cost: The cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay, with tickets as low as $3–$9 USD. Frequent departures: Buses run regularly throughout the day from several major bus stations. Local experience: A chance to observe how locals travel and explore everyday Vietnamese transportation culture. | Longer travel time: Slower than other options (4–5.5 hours) due to multiple stops and occasional delays. Less comfort: Basic seating, no air-conditioning on some older buses, and limited space for luggage. Language barrier: Drivers and staff often speak little or no English, which can be challenging for foreign travelers. |
By shuttle bus
Average time: about 2.5 - 3.5 hours
Cost: One-way fare: Around 300,000 – 500,000 VND (approximately $11.5 – 19 USD). Prices depend on the company, level of comfort, and pickup location.
Shuttle buses - also known as tourist buses - are a popular and practical option for travelers heading from Hanoi to Halong Bay. They offer more comfort than local buses at a reasonable price, with services tailored for tourists rather than daily commuters.
Shuttle buses typically pick up passengers at hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or designated central points in the city. Upon arrival in Halong, they usually drop passengers off at key tourist areas such as Bai Chay, Tuan Chau Harbor, or directly at cruise terminals, making it convenient for those heading straight onto a Halong Bay cruise.
Advantages and disadvantages of taking a shuttle bus:
ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
Affordable: More comfortable than local buses but still budget-friendly Direct drop-off: Often drop you near cruise ports like Tuan Chau or Bai Chay, reducing the need for extra transfers. Tourist-friendly: Designed for travelers, with better service quality and a smoother booking process. | Fixed schedules: You must stick to the bus company’s departure times Shared service: Traveling with a group of strangers may not suit those seeking privacy or peace. Possible delays: Traffic or waiting for other passengers during hotel pickups may extend the total travel time. |
By seaplane
Average time: about 45 minutes
Cost: Operated mainly by Hai Au Aviation, departing from Noi Bai Airport and landing at Tuan Chau Marina with price ranging from $350 - $450 per person for a one-way ticket.
If you're looking for a fast and unforgettable way to travel, taking a seaplane is one of the most scenic choices for you. This premium option offers not only speed but also stunning aerial views of Halong Bay’s limestone islands and emerald waters.
You can book seaplane tickets online via the official website of the airline (e.g., Hai Au Aviation) or through travel agencies like Hanoi Voyages. Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited seats and high demand during peak seasons.
Advantages and disadvantages of taking a seaplane:
ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
Fastest option: The flight takes only around 45 minutes, saving 2–3 hours compared to road travel. Scenic experience: Offers breathtaking aerial views of Halong Bay - perfect for photography lovers or a wonderful experience. Luxury travel: Comfortable seating, professional service, and a smooth, premium travel experience. | Limited availability: Few flights per day, with limited seating - advance booking is essential. No departure from city center: Flights depart from Noi Bai Airport, so you’ll need to travel from your hotel to the airport. Weather dependent: Flights can be delayed or canceled due to poor weather conditions. |
Note: For those seeking a premium travel option, you can drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay, then take the seaplane for a scenic flight. This experience offers a 25-minute journey to admire the breathtaking aerial views of Halong Bay, with its thousands of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.
You can also refer: Transportation in Vietnam: Best options for getting around
Travel to Halong Bay: Must-see attractions for travelers
After a scenic trip from Hanoi city to Halong Bay, travelers are greeted with a breathtaking seascape of limestone karsts and emerald waters. Halong Bay is home to a variety of must-see attractions - each offering a different glimpse into the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)
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One of the largest and most impressive caves in the bay, Sung Sot Cave is known for its dramatic rock formations and spacious interior chambers. It's a highlight on most cruise itineraries.
For more details: Discover 7 most beautiful caves in Halong Bay
Ti Top Island
Famous for its panoramic viewpoint and small beach, Ti Top Island is perfect for hiking and swimming. A short climb rewards you with one of the best aerial views of Halong Bay.
Luon Cave
Accessible only by kayak or bamboo boat, Luon Cave leads to a peaceful lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs - ideal for nature lovers and photographers. The calm, emerald water reflects the dramatic rock formations above, creating a peaceful and surreal atmosphere.
Bai Tu Long Bay
Located to the northeast of the main Halong area, Bai Tu Long Bay offers a quieter, less touristy experience with equally stunning scenery. Many luxury cruises include this area on their route.
Cua Van Floating Village
Experience traditional life on the water at this historic fishing village. Visitors can interact with locals, see floating houses, and learn about the cultural heritage of Halong’s fishing communities.
You can also read: Halong Bay 2-3 day itinerary:A perfect travel guide
Some suggested tour packages from Hanoi to Halong Bay
Planning your journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay can be overwhelming with so many tour options available. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve selected some of the most popular and well-rated tour packages - from day trips to luxurious overnight cruises.
 |  |  |
High-end North Vietnam 12 days High-end North Vietnam tour 12 days, featuring a seaplane ride over stunning Halong Bay and luxurious regional experiences | Discover UNESCO sites and the stunning Pu Luong Reserve. Enjoy a diverse adventure that's perfect for all ages | Vietnam 15 days beach extension Vietnam tour 15 days, featuring a relaxing beach extension in Phu Quoc. Discover stunning landscapes, and serene shores |
If you're still unsure which transportation option to choose, don’t worry. Our team at Hanoi Voyages offers fully arranged itineraries with transportation, meals, and guided activities included – so you won’t have to plan a thing. Just pack your bags and enjoy the journey. Let us take care of the rest!
In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!
Practical travel tips before your trip from Hanoi to Halong
Before embarking on your journey from Hanoi, it’s helpful to plan smartly - especially when considering how to get to Halong Bay in the most efficient and comfortable way. This section covers everything from when to book tickets for the best prices, what to prepare before departure, to how to choose the right transportation based on your travel style and budget.
Best time to book a ticket for better deal
High season in Halong Bay is from October to April, especially around holidays like Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and Christmas. During this time, prices for cruises, limousine vans, and hotels often surge - so it’s best to book at least 2–4 weeks in advance to secure better rates and availability.
The low season from May to September sees fewer tourists due to warmer weather and occasional rain, but many operators offer special promotions or bundle deals during this time.
Choose the right transportation for every travelers
With so many ways to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay, the best option depends on who you are and how you like to travel. Whether you're a solo backpacker, a family with kids, or a couple looking for romance, here are some transportation choices tailored to different types of travelers
For families with children: The best option is a private car or limousine van. These offer spacious seating, air-conditioning, and door-to-door service from Hanoi to Halong Bay - perfect for carrying extra luggage and making stops when needed.
For couples and honeymooners: Choose a seaplane flight or a private transfer with overnight cruise package. A seaplane lets you enjoy breathtaking views of the bay from above, while a smooth, private car ride adds a touch of luxury to your getaway.
For budget travelers and backpackers: If you're keeping costs low, go for a local bus or motorbike. Buses from major stations in Hanoi to Halong Bay are cheap and run frequently. If you’re adventurous, riding a motorbike gives you full control over your route - but only if you're confident navigating Vietnam’s roads.
For luxury travelers: Opt for a seaplane or a high-end private car with a professional driver. These services offer speed, privacy, and maximum comfort, ideal for those on tight schedules or who want a premium experience right from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
Travel transportation options summary
Transport Mode | Average Time | Cost (One-way) | Departure/Arrival Points | Best For |
Private Car | 2 – 2.5 hours | $80–$120 (one-way); $150–$200 (round-trip) | Hotel in Hanoi ↔ Hotel/cruise port in Halong | Families, groups, business travelers |
Local Bus | 4 – 5.5 hours | $3.8–$9.6 | Gia Lam / My Dinh / Giap Bat ↔ Bai Chay Bus Station | Budget travelers |
Shuttle Bus (Tourist Bus) | 2.5 – 3.5 hours | $11.5–$19 | Hotel pickup in Old Quarter ↔ Tuan Chau / Bai Chay | Most tourists, solo travelers |
Seaplane | ~45 minutes (flight only) | $350–$450 | Noi Bai Airport ↔ Tuan Chau Marina | Luxury travelers, couples |
Traveling from Hanoi city to Halong Bay is easier than ever, with a wide range of transportation options to suit every type of traveler. Whether you prefer speed and comfort or are traveling on a budget, there’s a way to get there that fits your needs.
We hope this guide helps you choose the route that fits you best- so you can focus on what really matters: experiencing the stunning beauty of Halong Bay.
Ready to plan your journey? Let Hanoi Voyages help you with seamless transport arrangements and unforgettable tour packages. Contact us today for expert support and personalized travel advice.
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