Halong Tours from Hanoi: Travel Time, Prices & How to Go

Quick Overview: Distance & Costs

The distance from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is 130–180 km, depending on your route and drop-off pier. With new highways, road travel takes 2 to 4 hours, or just 45 minutes by seaplane from Noi Bai International Airport.

Prices vary based on the transport medium:

• Public buses: $4 (bargain)
• Limousine bus: $10–$20 (comfortable, good for groups)
• Private cars: $50–$100 (flexible, fast)
• Seaplane: $275–$450 (truly luxury aerial experiences)

Here’s a handy guide:

Transport	Time	Cost (USD)	Best For
Bus from Hanoi	3.5 – 4 hrs	$4 – $10	Budget travel, local vibes
Limousine bus	2.5 – 3.5 hrs	$10 – $20	Comfort, small groups
Private cars	2 – 3 hrs	$50 – $100	Families, business travelers
Seaplane	45 mins	$275 – $450	Luxury, fast views

Most Popular Routes: What You Need to Know

Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway (CT.04 / 5B)

This is the fastest and smoothest route for travelers using limousine buses, shuttle buses, or private cars. Spanning around 150 km, it cuts your travel time to just 2–2.5 hours, especially outside peak hours. This expressway passes through Hai Phong, so if you’re exploring nearby areas, check our full route from Hai Phong to Ha Long Bay.

• Ideal for: Families, tour groups, business trips
• Shared by: Bus Hanoi to Halong Bay, taxis, and airport transfers from Noi Bai International Airport

QL18 via Bac Ninh – The Scenic Ride

Motorbike riders, this is the original Hanoi to Ha Long drive. It takes you through Bac Ninh, Uong Bi, and some of the rural towns, giving you a more relaxed but incredibly scenic drive. This will take around 4–5 hours, depending on traffic and if you have any breaks.

• Recommended for: Backpackers, solo riders
• Not recommended in bad weather or for inexperienced drivers

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by Shuttle Bus (Most Booked Option)

Top Shuttle & Limousine Bus Services from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

1.Ha Long Travel Limousine

• Pickup locations: Hanoi Old Quarter, Cu Khoi – Long Bien, Pho Vong – Hai Ba Trung
• Drop-off: 207 Cao Thang, Thanh Pho Ha Long
• Departure times from Hanoi: Every hour from 5:00 to 20:00
• Departure times from Ha Long: Every hour from 3:00 to 19:00
  Ticket prices:
  • 200,000 VND (2 front seats)
  • 220,000 VND (3 rear seats)
  • 240,000 VND (4 middle seats)
• Booking hotline: 1900 0381 – 024 7300 4383

2.Phuc Xuyen Limousine

• Pickup points in Hanoi: 19 Mac Thai To (Cau Giay), Ben xe My Dinh, 121 Lang Yen (Hai Ba Trung)
• Drop-off: 239 Nguyen Van Cu, Cot 8  – Ha Long
• Departure times: From 2:30 to 19:00 daily, every 60 minutes
• Ticket prices:
  • Middle seats: 260,000 VND
  • Rear seats: 240,000 VND
  • Front seats: 200,000 VND
• Booking hotline: 0983 827 827 – 0888 827 827

3.Ha Thanh Limousine

• Office in Hanoi: Toa HH1- 562 Nguyen Van Cu, Long Bien
• Departure times from Hanoi: 7 trips/day at 05:00, 06:00, 07:00, 09:00, 11:00, 12:30, 15:30
• Departure from Ha Long: 04:30 to 18:30 daily
• Ticket price:
  • 220,000 VND from Hanoi
  • 210,000 VND from Ha Long
• Hotline: 0913 078 333 – 0978 495 353

4.Ha Vy Limousine

• Drop-off in Ha Long: To 6, Khu 8, Phuong Hong Thai, Ha Long
• Departure: Every hour from 4:30 to 19:00 (Hanoi), 3:00 to 19:00 (Ha Long)
• Ticket prices:
  • Front seats: 200,000 VND
  • Middle seats: 240,000 VND
  • Rear seats: 220,000 VND
• Hotline: 0969 255 255 – 0799 255 255

5.Hung Duc Ket Doan

• Pickup in Hanoi: Ben xe My Dinh, Tran Khat Chan, Nguyen Van Linh (Long Bien)
• Drop-off: 809 Le Thanh Tong, Ha Long
• Frequency: 12 trips/day in each direction
• Ticket price: 140,000 VND
• Hotline: 024 8589 8333 – 0899 233 288

6.Dream Transport Limousine

• Pickup: Old Quarter and 4 central districts in Hanoi
• Drop-off: Hotels on Tuan Chau Island and Bai Chay
• Time: Departure around 7:00–7:30 from Hanoi, return around 12:00–12:30
• Ticket price: 280,000 VND
• Hotline: 0961 707 176 – 0334 383 888

7.KumHo Viet Thanh

• Office in Hanoi: 20 Pham Hung, Tu Liem
• Office in Ha Long: 451 Le Loi
• Frequency: Every 15 minutes from 05:00 to 18:45 daily
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND
• Hotline: 0948 890 033 – 024 3533 3888

8.Hoang Long

• Pickup in Hanoi: 28 Tran Nhat Duat- Hoan Kiem
• Drop-off: 2 Nguyen Van Cu – Ha Long
• Departure times: Multiple daily trips (5:20, 7:20, 11:20, 13:20)
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND
• Hotline: 0313 920 920

9.Luxury (Private Shuttle)

• Pickup: Garden City – Thach Ban, Long Bien
• Drop-off: Số 1, Bai Chay – Ha Long
• Pricing: 1.300.000 VND per car per trip (not per seat)
• Hotline: 090 129 1290

Pros & Cons of Shuttle Buses

Pros	Cons
Affordable, fast, and easy to book	Slightly cramped with luggage on limousine vans
Frequent daily departures, even on short notice	Peak weekends may require booking 1–2 days in advance
Convenient hotel pickup in Hanoi	Not ideal for travelers with extra-large luggage
Direct access to cruise piers like Tuan Chau Marina	Fixed schedules, less flexible than private transfers

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by Private Car

Pricing by Vehicle Size

The costs vary depending on car model, route, and vendor. The following is a rough breakdown for one-way travel:

• 4-seater sedan: 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 VND
• 7-seater SUV (e.g., Innova, Fortuner): 1,500,000 – 1,900,000 VND
• 16-seater minivan (Ford Transit): 2,200,000 – 2,800,000 VND

Note: All these rates generally include toll fees, gasoline, and driver. Multi-day, round-trip trips are negotiable with travel agencies or direct car providers.

Why Choose a Private Car for Your Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Journey?

• Total flexibility of departure time – no waiting around, no rushing.
• Direct hotel-to-harbor pick up from anywhere in Hanoi, return at Tuan Chau Marina or Ha Long International Port.
• Suitable for groups – keeps cost per person competitive.
• English-speaking drivers available – especially with bookings from major tour operators or high-end car rental apps.
• Flexible stops – need to have lunch, break, or take photos along the way? No problem.

GrabCar vs. Traditional Private Hire

GrabCar (via the Grab app) is available in Hanoi and is a decent option within city limits, but note:

• Very limited supply for longer trips to Ha Long Bay.
• App prices vary dramatically based on demand.
• Frequently no English-speaking drivers, and restricted customization.

Private hire cars reserved through local travel agents or hotel concierge services continue to be the most dependable option for this route, particularly for tourists unfamiliar with local transport networks.

Pros & Cons of Private Car Travel

Pros	Cons
Door-to-door comfort and total flexibility	Higher cost compared to buses or shuttle vans
Option to stop anywhere along the route	Must book in advance during peak seasons
No crowds, no stress	Some local drivers may speak limited English
Ideal for families, business travelers, and groups	Not suitable for solo travelers on a budget

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by Public Bus

Departure Points and Routes

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay regular buses typically leave from My Dinh, Giap Bat, or Nuoc Ngam bus stations. Bai Chay Bus Station in the city of Ha Long is the busiest terminal.

They run 30-60 minutes apart from early morning to late afternoon. The bus journey takes from 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and how many bus stops are made.

Top Bus Companies (Public Routes)

KumHo Viet Thanh

•  Hotline: 0948 890 033
• Departure every 15 minutes from My Dinh. 
• Price: 120,000 VND

Phuc Xuyen

•  Hotline: 0983 827 827
•  Departure from My Dinh and Giap Bat 
• Price: 100,000–200,000 VND, depending on seat type

Hung Duc Ket Doan

•  Hotline: 024 8589 8333
•  Departure every hour. 
• Price: 140,000 VND

Pros & Cons of Public Buses

Pros	Cons
Very affordable	No hotel pickup or drop-off
Frequent departures from Hanoi	Limited luggage space
Great cultural experience	Language barrier and fewer amenities than shuttle buses
Available at multiple bus stations	Longer travel time due to frequent stops

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by Seaplane

Flight Details

• Route: Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) to Tuan Chau Marina (Ha Long)
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Price range: From 275 USD per person
• Weight limit: 7 kg hand-carry luggage (strictly enforced)
• Availability: Daily flights (subject to weather conditions)

The highlight? An optional 15-minute scenic flight over Ha Long Bay, from where you’ll admire stunning aerial views of limestone karsts, including emerald waters and cruising vessels beneath you. It’s like being in a nature documentary, but live! 

Pros & Cons of Seaplane Travel

Pros	Cons
Fastest and most scenic route	Expensive compared to land travel
Breathtaking aerial photography opportunities	Subject to weather-related delays or cancellations
VIP-style experience, great for honeymooners or media	Strict luggage limits and limited daily seats

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay by Motorbike (For Adventurers)

Scenic vs. Practical Routes for Hanoi to Ha Long Travel

Two roads exist that travel primarily between Hanoi and Ha Long Bay:

• Along Bac Ninh – QL18 (Approx. 155 km): It is the most beautiful and favorite route for motorbike riders. From Nga Ba Sai Dong, take a ride through Dong Trieu, Sao Do, Pha Lai, Dong Trieu, and Bac Ninh, and onto Uong Bi before reaching Ha Long Bay. Expect rolling hills, roads, rice fields, and villages along the way.
• Via Hai Duong – QL5B + 183 (Approx. 170 km): A more direct and practical route, with better road conditions but heavier traffic, especially near industrial zones. You’ll pass Hai Duong city before connecting to the coastal route leading to Ha Long.

Suggested Stops & Refueling Points for Hanoi to Ha Long

• Pha Lai – Great for a coffee break and fuel.
• Dong Trieu – Midway stop with restaurants and garages.
• Uong Bi – Final stretch into Ha Long, fill up on water or photo stop.

Vietnam has plenty of petrol stops, but don’t risk it—fill up when it’s safe to do so, especially on rural stretches.

Legal Requirements for Hanoi to Ha Long Travel

Before strapping on your motorbike, ensure you’re roadworthy:

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, as is a genuine home license that carries motorcycle cover.
• Helmets are legally obligatory.
• Consider insuring motorbike use.

Essential Safety Tips & Gear Checklist for Hanoi to Ha Long

• Visor helmet
• Rain poncho (weather may change in an instant)
• Phone mount + offline maps
• Protective jacket & gloves
• Emergency contact + basic repair kit

Best Options for Hanoi to Ha Long Based on Travel Style

Every traveler has their style, and your perfect trip from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay should reflect your style, pace, and needs. Let’s find the best match for your next adventure to Halong Bay!

Solo Backpackers for Exploring Hanoi to Ha Long

Looking for the best value? Take a public bus from Hanoi at My Dinh or Gia Lam bus terminals for just $5–10. It’s cheap, local, and perfect for those who like the thrill of independent travel from Hanoi. A bit more comfort needed? Take a limousine bus for better seats and onboard Wi-Fi without breaking the bank.

 Couples for the Hanoi–Ha Long Experience

Romance escape? The hotel pick-up limousine bus in the Old Quarter is cozy, reliable, and lets you stay together while gliding to Ha Long Bay. Need more room for yourself? Rent a private car for door-to-door comfort. Booking in advance? Book an add-on extra trip with a 2D1N cruise or go from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh for a fantastic loop.

Families with Kids for Exploring Hanoi to Ha Long

Nothing compares to the ease of having a personal car while traveling as a family. You decide when to halt, AC is in full swing, and children sleep whenever they desire! Do not miss pre-booking via credible tour agents, especially during festive holidays when traveling time may last hours, depending on the traffic status.

Luxury Travelers for the Hanoi–Ha Long Experience

Looking for something beyond the ordinary? Fly by seaplane from Noi Bai International Airport straight to Tuan Chau Marina. You’ll soar above limestone karsts and arrive in just 45 minutes. It’s premium, exclusive, and worth it. After arrival, enjoy a 3D2N Halong cruise or plan your next leg via Ho Chi Minh City to Halong Bay for seamless travel.

Day-Trippers for Hanoi to Ha Long

Short on time? Get out early (7:00 AM!) and catch a shuttle bus from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay on the Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway. It’s the fastest overland route. Your best option? A return bus Hanoi to Halong Bay trip including pickup, drop-off, and a cruise.

Conclusion

No matter your travel style—luxury jet-setter, motorbike adventurer, or budget-conscious traveler—there is an ideal way to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. For the rest of you, the limousine bus is your best value of convenience, comfort, and affordability. Still in doubt about your next leg? Don’t miss our Hai Phong to Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City to Halong Bay, or continue to Ninh Binh to Halong Bay guides. Book ahead, pack smart, and experience unforgettable Halong Tours your way!

FAQ 

1. How can I get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
   You can go by the limousine bus, public bus, private vehicle, motorbike, or seaplane from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. The most convenient and popular one is a limousine bus, with hotel pickup in the Old Quarter and drop-off at the cruise port. If you prefer speed and glamour, then the seaplane flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Tuan Chau Marina is just 45 minutes!
2. How much is a taxi from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
   A taxi or private car from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay will cost between 1,500,000 VND and 2,500,000 VND ($60–100 USD) based on vehicle size (4–16 seats) and your exact drop-off point. It is ideal for groups, families, or those who want privacy and flexibility with departure times.
3. Can you fly from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
   Yes! You may fly from Hanoi to Halong Bay aboard a seaplane operated by Hai Au Aviation. It’s a 45-minute scenic flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Tuan Chau Marina that features sweeping aerial views of limestone karsts, perfect for high-end travelers and photographers.
4. What’s the best way to visit Halong Bay?
   Best of all, in your style! For most visitors, the most popular choice is a limousine bus from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay: cheap, comfortable, and fast. Adventure seekers can go motorbike, and luxury enthusiasts, seaplane. Then, either take a day cruise or overnight 1–2 nights aboard to see the wonder of Ha Long Bay.