How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi? If you are searching for magnificent limestone peaks, idyllic rice fields, and enchanting boat journeys in Tam Coc, then this tour is exactly what you need! Located around 100 km south of the capital city, Ninh Binh is a relief from the urban bustle. Getting from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is quick and easy—depending on your vehicle and travel style, you can take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, take a Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus, hire a private taxi, or even fly straight from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh. Here in this guide, we will show you all the top options, prices, and itineraries to enable you to travel wisely and comfortably from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, and back from Ninh Binh to Hanoi!
The rough distance is around 93 to 100 kilometers, depending on where you’re departing from in Hanoi and what you’re heading to in Ninh Binh—Tam Coc, Bai Dinh Pagoda, or the popular Mua Cave.
Travel time varies depending on your preferred mode of transportation. Here’s a summary:
|
Transport Method |
Estimated Time |
|
Private Car / Limousine |
1.5 – 2 hours |
|
Train Hanoi Ninh Binh |
2 – 2.5 hours |
|
Hanoi to Ninh Binh Bus |
2.5 – 3 hours |
|
Motorbike |
2.5 – 3 hours |
|
From Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh |
2 – 2.5 hours |
Phap Van – Cau Gie Expressway + National Highway 1A (Fastest route)
National Highway 1A (Old Road)
Scenic backroads and local village routes
National Highway 1A (Sours: vietnamplus)
How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi is not that hard at all, with limousines topping the list for several reasons:
Let’s dive into the most trusted limousine operators for the Hanoi – Ninh Binh route, based on comfort, punctuality, and local knowledge.
X.E Vietnam Limousine – Professional & Fast
Trang An Limousine – Ideal for Scenic Routes
Duy Khang Limousine – Premium Experience
Ninh Binh Excursion Limousine – Consistent Daily Transfers
Limousine Service (Sours: vietnamtransports)
Traveling by train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh would usually take 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the train and traffic near the stations. Although not the fastest means, it’s a picturesque, relaxing trip without the highway hustle.
There are six daily trains from Hanoi – Ninh Binh with different classes of seats like hard seat, soft seat, AC cabins, and even VIP sleeper beds (if continuing further on).
Below are the suggested options for visitors:
|
Train |
Departure (Hanoi) |
Arrival (Ninh Binh) |
Duration |
Price (VND) |
|
SE7 |
06:00 |
08:14 |
~2h15m |
123,000 – 237,000 |
|
SE5 |
09:00 |
11:17 |
~2h17m |
112,000 – 237,000 |
|
SE3 |
19:30 |
21:44 |
~2h15m |
129,000 – 183,000 |
|
SE19 |
20:10 |
22:22 |
~2h10m |
130,000 – 443,000 |
Tip: Choose soft seats or air-conditioned cabins for the best comfort. If you’re going directly from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, this may not be the best option unless you change to Hanoi city first (about 30 minutes by taxi).
Booking is easy! Here’s how:
Train (Sours: a21tours)
If comfort, privacy, and punctuality are high on your agenda, this is the mode of transport that ticks all those boxes. Here’s why it’s ideal:
Private transfer costs typically fall between 1,300,000 and 1,900,000 VND per car (not per person), based on:
Share the cost with 3–5 travelers, and not only is it luxurious, it’s budget-friendly as well!
Book in advance, especially if you’re arriving by air. Here’s booking like a pro:
If you are flying in, please include your flight number and arrival time so that the driver can track delays and meet you accordingly at the terminal. That is one of the benefits of traveling by private transfer from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh.
The fastest route is via the Phap Van – Cau Gie Expressway, which directly connects to QL1A, and you’ll arrive in Ninh Binh city in 1.5–2 hours. For a more rural drive, ask your driver to take local roads through country villages and lush rice fields.
Taxi (Sours: vietnamtrips)
Buses are 2 to 3 hours, give or take, depending on traffic and where you’re coming from in Hanoi. They won’t provide the speed of a limo or private car, but they’re regular and dependable. This is especially useful for those coming into the city center and not necessarily from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, though it’s simple enough to get from the airport to the bus stations using taxis or ride-hailing apps.
Let’s split the two bus varieties you’ll be traveling on this Hanoi to Ninh Binh excursion:
To catch a Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus, head to one of the following stations:
These bus stations are within 30 minutes or less by taxi ride from the Old Quarter. If coming from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, 45–60 minutes to reach these terminals by car or Grab.
Several decent companies are operating daily services between Ninh Binh and Hanoi with regular departures throughout the day:
|
Operator |
Type |
Ticket Price (VND) |
Notes |
|
Hoang Long |
Sleeper bus |
120,000 – 150,000 |
Runs from Nuoc Ngam Station |
|
Cat Loi |
Express/Sleeper |
100,000 – 140,000 |
Known for punctuality and clean buses |
|
Cuong Hung |
Express |
90,000 – 130,000 |
Good option from Giap Bat |
|
Dong Chin |
Sleeper |
100,000 – 150,000 |
Budget-friendly with decent comfort |
Hanoi to Ninh Binh Bus (Sours: vinpearl)
This is the best way to get around for:
Motorbike rentals in Hanoi are also affordable, around 120,000 to 350,000 VND/day, depending on the model (semi-auto, manual, or touring bikes).
Here are some reputable rental companies:
|
Rental Agency |
Starting Price |
Website |
|
Tigit Motorbikes |
~200,000 VND |
tigitmotorbikes.com |
|
Rent A Bike Vietnam |
~150,000 VND |
rentabikevn.com |
|
Style Motorbikes |
~170,000 VND |
stylemotorbikes.com |
|
Motorvina |
~150,000 VND |
motorvina.com |
The fastest route would be the QL1A highway, but come on—it’s busy, dusty, and not what this ride is about.
For real countryside charm, DT491C is your wanderlust road! This scenic backroad:
Pro tip: Start early morning to avoid the heat and see sunrise over the Red River Delta. And when you return from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, ride an alternate scenic route back and see it from a different angle!
Motorbike (Sours: hanoiexploretravel)
From Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, the distance is roughly 120 kilometers, and the average travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your choice of transport. You’ll bypass the city center altogether, heading straight for limestone peaks, quiet rivers, and lush landscapes in Tam Coc, Trang An, and Mua Caves.
So whether you’re flying in early morning or touching down at sunset, getting from Hanoi to Ninh Binh directly from the airport is not only possible—it’s convenient and increasingly popular!
Let’s break down the different ways to travel from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, tailored to fit your needs, comfort level, and budget.
Private Car (Top Recommended)
Most services also include English-speaking drivers and 24/7 service. Booking in advance ensures your driver’s availability at the arrival gate even if your flight is delayed.
Limousine Van
It’s a comfortable yet budget-friendly way to start your trip in style, if you want a shared but superior ride.
Taxi
There you go—how to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh made easy! If you desire the affordable Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus, the scenic train Hanoi to Ninh Binh, or a convenient ride from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh, there’s a perfect option for every traveler. Each one is unique with something to offer depending on your comfort, time, and adventure factor.
And what do you do when you arrive? Don’t miss the magic—take a look at our top-rated Ninh Binh Tours to get you deeply immersed in this stunning landscape of limestone karsts, ancient temples, and peaceful rivers. See you on the road!
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour will deepen your interesting history, starting with a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was the 10th-century capital and once the heart of Vietnam’s first centralized feudal state. You will be walking through the ancient temples dedicated to King Đinh Tiên Hoàng and King Lê Đại Hành, marveling at the intricate architecture and listening to stories that have shaped the nation’s legacy.
Next, step into the grandeur of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex: Bai Dinh Pagoda, from the colossal bronze Buddha statues to its serene courtyards. In its way, Bai Dinh offers spiritual solace and a lifetime feeling of awe. These heritage landmarks make the Ninh Binh Tours very important to any history enthusiast.
Tam Coc (Sours: vietnamtravel)
Get ready to be charmed by the outstanding landscapes that define the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour. Reputed as “Halong Bay on Land," Tam Coc fascinates its travelers with its dramatic limestone karsts majestically rising from emerald rice fields. Travel along in a boat on the quiet waters of the Ngo Dong River and explore the mystical “Three Caves" (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba) while taking in the unspoiled beauty of the area.
Another highlight of Ninh Binh Tours is Trang An. This place is honored by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, featuring labirynth rivers, and caves paired with rich greenery. These few wonders together show the unmatched panorama that makes Ninh Binh one of the best options to visit in Vietnam.
That includes stories and connections, not purely a sightseeing Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour because interacting with the friendly locals from other parts of the world comes along in the sharing of their customs, daily life, or even culinary secrets. You will surely know that once these ancient or ancient sites, which have played a very predominant role in Vietnam’s bygone era, take off for a visit from Hoa Lu to a spiritual depth at the Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Enjoy the local food to your heart’s content with traditional Vietnamese dishes, including goat meat and crispy rice, both regional specialties and a way of life. This layer of culture will make this journey far more than just a tour-it will be an experience.
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour offers endless opportunities to the camera of photography enthusiasts: from golden rice fields in Tam Coc to peaceful waters in Trang An, from majestic architecture in Bai Dinh Pagoda, each corner of Ninh Binh is perfect for a picture.
From iconic places like the Ngo Dong River to ancient temples in Hoa Lư, you’ll have breathtaking backdrops for lifelong memories. We don’t just let you go away with great memories but also some spectacular snapshots to share and keep as mementos.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (Sours: https://www.agoda)
07:30 – 08:00: Pick you up at your hotel in Old Quarter and depart for a full-day Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour on the southeast of Hanoi to the province of Ninh Binh. It’s around 90 kilometers taking one and a half hours to get there then see Vietnam’s peaceful countryside-golden rice fields and limestone rock formation rising majestically from the ground.
10:00 – 11:30: Arrive in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which is the cradle of the very first centralized feudal state of Vietnam. You will visit the temples dedicated to Emperor Đinh and Emperor Lê and listen as your guide relates the stories of these Emperors and the dynasties that once ruled here. If you’re into history, then this is a must.
12:00 – 13:00: Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a nearby restaurant. Regional dishes will be served, including goat meat with crispy rice and fresh seasonal vegetables. The quiet atmosphere allows for an even better taste of this meal.
13:30 – 15:30: The highlight of the day is to take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. Travel through lush rice fields and dramatic limestone formations as you explore the “Three Caves" (Hang Cả, Hang Hai, Hang Ba). The serene atmosphere and natural beauty of Tam Coc are unforgettable, offering countless opportunities for photography.
16:00 – 16:30: Arrive in Ninh Binh at a cozy hotel. This is a perfect opportunity for you to retreat and refresh after such a long day with full exploration.
Evening Activity (Optional): Stroll through the quiet evening streets of Ninh Binh, or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Bai Dinh Pagoda (Sours: https://www.tripadvisor)
07:30 – 08:00: Have a healthy and delicious breakfast at the hotel.
08:30 – 11:00: Start visiting Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex Bai Dinh Pagoda. Marvel at its magnificent bronze Buddha statues, peaceful courtyards, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. An optional electric car service around the area is recommended to save time in exploring this big area.
11:30 – 12:30: Have lunch at a local restaurant serving stewed goats, freshwater fish, and other dishes that will reflect the culinary achievement of Ninh Binh.
13:00 – 15:30: Take another different Trang An boat ride for fantastic trips to the world nature reserve. The small booths up and downstream rows wind through caves: Hang Sáng, Hang Tối; and Hang Nấu Rượu. There you gain deep insight into the beauty and marvel of nature in light reflected together with green forest’ plants and towering cliffs; during the journey, some telling by your guide can intrigue your interest in rich stories both in history and tradition associated with Trang An so that you could treasure Trang Anmore valuably.
16:00: Depart for the back to Hanoi. Feeling relaxed onboard while comfort stimulates you to ponder over beautiful memories and experiences during a day spent at Ninh Binh Tours.
18:30: Arrive in Hanoi to end a wonderful tour of history, culture, and nature in 2 days.
Trang An (Sours: https://www.agoda)
Moreover, the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour is offered to customers for $178 per person for a premium experience without breaking your wallet. Is this a family getaway, or are you traveling with children? Well, we have special discounts for children and families so nobody misses this unforgettable adventure.
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour will cover everything you need to make your journey smooth and memorable:
With this full package, you can enjoy the entire magic of Ninh Binh hassle-free.
The following are not included in the tour to maintain flexibility:
Why choose the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour? This is a package that holds the perfect balance of luxury and affordability necessary for every traveler to offer value to their investment-from the time you step into our comfortable transport to the last scenic boat ride in Trang An, every little detail contributes to a rich, truly immersive experience. From history enthusiasts to nature lovers and from cultural immersion, seekers-the lot-this is a travel package that will deliver it in one incredible journey.
Ninh Binh (Sours: bucketlistly)
If there’s anything to be said about the time of the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour, let it be to enhance this experience even more. This is during the rice harvest season from May to June, when the magic comes out of these surrounding fields in every direction, truly breathtakingly so. At the same time, Ninh Binh Tours makes for year-round beauty. From the appeal of the lush green landscape in spring to the quiet, misty mornings of winter, there is never a wrong time to visit this wonderland.
Pack these essentials to make the most of your adventure:
These items will keep you prepared at every step of the tour, from hiking up temple steps to gazing out over the serenity of the waterways.
Our Ninh Binh Tours are suitable for all ages. For families with children, the program is easy and enjoyable; for elderly participants, it is also comfortable because of the air-conditioned transportation and electric car services available at Bai Dinh Pagoda. The boat cruises in Tam Coc and Trang An are serene and require minimum effort; thus, they are suitable for all participants.
Here’s how to make your Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour even more memorable:
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour is the ultimate getaway from Hanoi, comprising historical, cultural, and, of course, natural wonders. Take serene river rides, explore ancient temples, and enjoy real Vietnamese food on this 2-day journey. Experience the magic of Ninh Binh Tours and create memories to last a lifetime. Book now for an unforgettable journey!
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is one of the most amazing & authentic package tour in the North Vietnam. Our tours lead the paths you to explore cultural and historic relics of Vietnam such as ancient citadel named Hoa Lu and pagoda, temples. Furthermore, to be immersive by natural landscape such as Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Trang An, Van Long natural Reserve. We will take part in the experienced activities well as cycling visa the rural countryside of particular Red River Delta to be impressed by local life along the paths. The a bamboo boats sail crossing along the emerald green rice field among limestone cliffs, stopping at spectacular caves through which visitors can be appealed, viewing impressive, centuries-old formations.
You will take an experience of stunning scenery, to obtain the active venture for cycling via the rural countryside and sailing bamboo boat on the green rice paddy among the limestone mountain.
You will not merely see many fantastically scenery and animals of wild life in the national park, and rescue center. Additionally learn more about its history and locals and join to homestay activities.
Authentic paths to explore the northern part of Vietnam. The imposing scenery of mountain, hill, green valley, and rice terraces. The idyllic hill-tribe villages from Mai Chau - Pu Luong and Ninh Binh rural countryside.
Luxurious services for Hanoi, Halong tour destinations until to the authentic Ninh Binh rural countryside journey of active venture to explore the imposing scenery of limestone mountain, and tour to explore culture and history from national relics.
