Bus Ninh Binh to Halong Bay: How to Get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay (with Insider Tips)
Crisscrossing Northern Vietnam’s postcard-perfect landscapes, the journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is more than just a transfer — it’s a scenic adventure between two of the country’s most iconic destinations. From the serene rice paddies and karst peaks of Trang An and Tam Coc to the surreal limestone seascape of Halong Bay, how you get there can be as memorable as the destinations themselves.
But what’s the best way to go — especially if you’re considering taking a bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?
Whether you’re after comfort, budget-friendly options, or full-on freedom, here’s your local-style guide to every transport method — with pro tips you won’t find in brochures.
Limousine Van – The Smart Choice for Most Travelers
If you’re looking for a hassle-free ride that combines comfort and affordability, skip the regular bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay and hop on a limousine van. These premium minivans are the go-to choice for cruise-bound travelers thanks to wide leather seats, solid air conditioning, and extras like Wi-Fi and USB ports.
Why It’s Great:
Direct hotel pickup/drop-off
Shorter travel time (3.5–4 hours)
More spacious than local buses
💰 Price: 250,000 – 350,000 VND (~$10–$14)
🕘 Departures: Daily, mornings and midday
📍 Pick-up: Ninh Binh city or Tam Coc hotels
📍 Drop-off: Halong hotels or Tuan Chau Marina
🚐 Recommended Operators:
Ninh Binh Car Limousine – Clean, punctual, easy to book
👉 From 300,000 VND ($12)Halong Bay Lux Limousine – Smooth ride, cruise coordination
👉 From 250,000 VND ($10)
💡 Local Tip: Sit on the left side for sunrise views when heading east.
Best For: Couples, solo travelers, and small groups wanting comfort and ease.
🚌 Local Bus – Cheapest Way to Get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay
For travelers counting every dong, a local bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is the most budget-friendly choice. You’ll trade frills for authenticity, and while the journey is longer and less predictable, it’s light on the wallet.
🕒 Duration: 4.5 – 5.5 hours
💰 Price Range: 100,000 – 160,000 VND (~$4–$7)
📍 Drop-off: Mostly Bai Chay Bus Station (not near the cruise ports)
🚌 Popular Bus Options:
Hung Duc Sleeper Bus – Basic beds, fair price
👉 From 140,000 VNDDuc Giang Car – Cheapest but least comfy
👉 From 100,000 VNDQuang Muoi Bus – Decent seats, friendlier staff
👉 From 150,000 VND
⚠️ Note: From Bai Chay, take a Grab/taxi (~15–30 mins) to Tuan Chau Marina or your hotel.
Best For: Backpackers, slow travelers, and budget seekers.
🚗 Private Car Transfer – Easiest Door-to-Door Option
Prefer a direct, private ride without strangers or stops? Booking a private car from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is the fastest, smoothest route — especially if you’re heading straight onto a cruise or traveling with family.
🕒 Duration: 3.5 – 4 hours
💰 Price Estimates:
Sedan (1–3 pax): ~1,900,000 VND ($75)
SUV (4 pax): ~2,100,000 VND ($83)
Minivan (up to 12 pax): ~2,500,000 VND ($99)
Perks:
Door-to-door service
English-speaking driver (optional)
Wi-Fi, bottled water
💡 Tip: Ask for scenic or cultural stopovers along the way.
Best For: Families, groups, and those prioritizing comfort.
🛵 Motorbike – For the Adventurous Route from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay
Love the open road? The motorbike ride from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay offers rugged charm and stunning backroads. Best for experienced riders with time and gear.
🕒 Ride Time: 5–6 hours (excluding breaks)
💰 Rental: $7–$20 per day
Route: Ninh Binh → Nam Dinh → Thai Binh → Hai Phong → Halong
🔧 Essentials:
Valid license + IDP
Helmet, gloves, rain cover
Travel insurance (very important!)
⚠️ Be cautious during rain or low visibility. Avoid night riding.
Best For: Confident riders seeking adventure and freedom.
🚆 Train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay – Not Worth It
Train fans, this one’s a miss. There’s no direct train connecting Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, making the journey time-consuming and inefficient. You’d need to detour via Hanoi or Hai Phong — not worth it unless that’s already your route.
🕒 Duration: 8+ hours with multiple changes
📌 Verdict: Better to skip.
✨ Pro Travel Tips for Your Ride from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay
🎟️ Book Early – Especially during weekends and high season (Oct–Apr).
📱 Use Trusted Booking Sites – 12Go, Klook, Baolau, or verified local agents.
🧳 Pack a Cruise-Day Bag – If you’re transferring straight onto a boat.
🛡️ Don’t Skip Travel Insurance – Especially for motorbike travelers or tight schedules.
🧭 Which Bus Ninh Binh to Halong Bay Option Is Right for You?
| Travel Style | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Value | Limousine Van | Fast, comfy, and includes hotel pickup |
| Budget Backpacker | Local Bus | Cheapest route, but longer ride |
| Group or Family | Private Car | Door-to-door and flexible |
| Adventurous Explorer | Motorbike | Scenic, immersive, and thrilling |
| Train Enthusiasts | Skip This Time | Too many changes, not worth it |
🚍 Booking a Bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay? We Can Help
Need help booking your bus from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay — or want to bundle your ride with a Halong Bay cruise? Let us help you find the best deals and routes, so you skip the stress and start your adventure right.
The Best Cruise Recommended in Halong Bay
Hotline | WhatsApp: +84.978.358.422
Phone | WhatsApp: +84.962.261.687
Email: halongbayluxcruises@gmail.com
vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com
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