Hanoi to Ha Long Guide: Travel Options & Hanoi Tours

Overview: Compare All Transport Modes at a Glance

Transport Option	Duration	Price (VND/USD)	Best For	Highlights
Private Car	2.5–3.5 hours	1,500,000–4,500,000 (65–190 USD)	Families, VIPs, flexible travelers	Custom schedule, door-to-door pickup, and drop
Motorbike	3–4 hours	150,000–300,000 (6–12 USD)	Adventurers	Scenic roads, freedom to explore Northern Vietnam
Shuttle Bus	2.5–3 hours	300,000–600,000 (12–25 USD)	Solo travelers, couples, small group tours	Comfortable shuttle buses, Wi-Fi, and hotel pick-up
Public Bus	3–4 hours	100,000–250,000 (4–10 USD)	Budget travelers	Reliable, frequent, great for authentic travel from Hanoi
Seaplane	45–60 minutes	8,000,000–10,000,000 (350–450 USD)	Luxury seekers, short on time	Fastest route with aerial views of Ha Long Bay
Train (via Hai Phong)	~7 hours total	80,000–150,000 (3–6 USD)	Scenic lovers, slow travelers	Peaceful ride through the countryside near Ninh Binh

Option 1: Hanoi to Ha Long by Private Car

Duration & Cost

• Travel time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic and pick-up location.
• Price: Between 1,500,000 – 4,500,000 VND (~$65/ –USD 190) depending on the vehicle you choose (sedan, SUV, or minivan), time of day, and extra services.

Top Trusted Car Rental Providers in Hanoi

Below are 3 good private car rental companies offering direct service from Ha Noi to Ha Long Bay:

1.Rong A Chau Car Rental (Thue Xe Rong A Chau)

• Address: 45 Nguyen Khang, Cau Giay, Hanoi
• Hotline: 0961 82 82 20
• Vehicles: Cars from 4 to 45 seats, with or without air conditioning, modern Vans
• Driver: Professional, enthusiastic, knowledgeable of the Northern route in Vietnam
• Sample Price: 7-seat car (Toyota Innova) to Ha Long Bay around 2,000,000 – 2,500,000 VND one way

2.Hanoilux – Private Car Hanoi

• Address: 116 Nguyen Khanh Toan, Cau Giay, Hanoi
• Hotline: 0986 427 002
• Vehicles: Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, Hyundai Solati (limousine is provided by the company too.
• Services: Provides singles and returns Hanoi to Ha Long and Halong to Hanoi service
• Sample Price: SUV (7-seat Fortuner): around 2,200,000 – 2,700,000 VND

3.Xe Anh Viet

• Address: 46 Tran Duy Hung, Cau Giay, Hanoi
• Hotline: 0936 343 886
• Vehicles: 16-seat Ford Transit and VIP Limousine available
• Add-ons: Rest and snack stops, group-share versions
• Sample Price: 2,500,000 – 3,500,000 VND, depending on the number of participants

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

Advantages:

• Full privacy and comfort – all to ourselves, away from the crowds.
• Loose travel itinerary – stop for lunch, attractions, or a breather in spots like Ninh Binh.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop off – right from your hotel or airport, to your Ha Long cruise terminal.
• Great for groups – especially for families with kids or travelers with an abundance of luggage.

Disadvantages:

• It is more expensive than other options, such as the bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay or a shuttle bus.
• Bookings are essential, particularly for weekends and public holidays
• Others may attempt to tack them on as hidden fees – always ask for a full breakdown

Option 2: Hanoi to Ha Long by Motorbike

Route Breakdown: Your Scenic Path to Ha Long Bay

This is a classic ride and the distance is approximately 160–190 km depending on your bike and your actual route. So, how far is Halong Bay from Hanoi by bike? Far enough to feel the wind, but close enough for a one-day’s ride.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the most scenic and efficient motorbike route:

1. Leave central Hanoi and travel east on Nguyen Van Cu towards Gia Lam
2. Do the QL5 (National Highway 5) that goes through Hai Duong – where it is worth it for you to refuel, stretch, and let your two-wheeler percolate you.
3. On to Hai Phong, and some local food or a coffee by the river
4. Join QL18 and drive onto Bai Chay, the center of the tourist industry in the Ha Long Bay area.

Gear Checklist & Safety Advice

Before you ride two wheels from Hanoi to Ha Long, ensure you’re prepared. Here’s what you need for a safe and easy ride:

• A valid driving license (International Driver’s License preferably)
• Also, need another helmet (DOT or ECE-rated)
• Rain gear – weather can change quickly in northern Vietnam
• Protective clothing: coat, gloves, and closed shoes.
• Phone mount & offline maps (for dead zone areas)
• Fuel money – cards are no good in small towns
• Reflective tape or vest – great for nighttime visibility

And most importantly: ride cautiously. Vietnamese streets offer a mix of scooters, trucks, and animals. You never know what you will see!

Recommended Motorbike Rental Shops for Hanoi to Ha Long Ride

1.Tigit Motorbikes Hanoi

• Address: 13 Hang Tre, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Contact: +84 90 144 0192
• Highlights:
  • Favored by ex-pats and Brevet riders
  • Provides manual (Honda Win), semi-auto and automatic motorcycles
  • Best for: Cyclists tackling a long trip through Ninh Binh, Ha Long and beyond
  • Deposit required but refundable
• Rental Price: From 200,000 VND/day (~$8.5), discounts for long-term

2.Style Motorbikes Hanoi

• Address: 40 Hang Tre, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Contact: +84 34 843 0202
• Highlights:
  • Provides everything from city scooters to long-distance motorbikes.
  • Proper bikes with phone holders, rain covers, helmets Full Review Sunscreen!
  • Popular with backpackers, they route Hanoi to Ha Long, Hue, Hoi An etc.
• Rental Price: From 150,000–300,000 VND/day ($6–$12)

3.Phung Motorbike Rental

• Address: 13 Ngo Huyen, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Contact: +84 93 634 0286
• Highlights:
  • Family-owned shop with personalized service
  • To-the-point agreements, good for short jaunts or longer loops
  • Free maps & travel advice included
• Rental Price: From 120,000 VND/day (~$5), includes helmet and lock

Option 3: Hanoi to Ha Long by Shuttle Bus (Limousine)

What to Expect

• Travel time: Typically 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your drop-off and pick-up
• Capacity: 9-seat, 11-seat, or 17-seat limousines
• Departure points: Hotel pick-up service in the Old Quarter, bus stops by request
• Arrival: Drop-off at cruise terminals in Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay, or near hotels

Onboard Amenities

This is not your typical Hanoi to Halong bus. These are cars designed to upgrade your ride with:

• Leather seats that recline comfortably
• Free Wi-Fi
• USB charging ports
• Bottled water and wet wipes
• Air-conditioned, clean interior, and luggage storage space
• English-speaking drivers (optional with some operators)
• Top Shuttle Operators You Can Trust

1.Phuc Xuyen Limousine

• Main Office: No. 16, Le Thanh Tong Street, May To Ward, Ngo Quyen District, Hai Phong
• Hotline: 0203 366 8668
• Hanoi Pick-up Area: Hotels and addresses within the Old Quarter and city center
• Vehicles: 9- and 11-seat limousines, equipped with leather seats, air-conditioning, and bottled water
• Why pick them: Phuc Xuyen is a well-established transport brand with extensive experience serving the Hanoi to Ha Long route. Their professionalism and timeliness make them a favorite among locals and tourists.

2.Dream Transport Limousine

• Office Address: Alley 35, Pham Tuan Tai Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
• Hotline: 0961 632 632
• Pick-up Zone: Available for pick-up in Hoan Kiem, Cau Giay, and along Ring Road 3
• Vehicles: Premium 9- and 11-seater limousines with Wi-Fi, charging ports, and comfortable legroom
• Why use them: Dream Transport is the preferred choice of local and international passengers for clean vehicles, courteous drivers, and flexible routes. They’re often displayed on online channels like 12Go and Traveloka.

3.Ha Vy Limousine

• Office Address: No. 22, Alley 79, Cau Giay Street, Hanoi
• Hotline: 0987 898 777
• Pick-up Options: Hotel pick-up in central Hanoi, with frequent stops in Kim Ma and Nguyen Chi Thanh areas
• Vehicles: 9-seater limousines with reclining leather seats, free water, Wi-Fi, and light blankets
• Why use them: Ha Vy is famous for its timely schedules and straight routes on the expressway, saving traveling time and stopping fewer times.

Option 4: Hanoi to Ha Long by Public Bus

Departure Stations & Routes

There are three central bus terminals in Hanoi with daily buses going to Ha Long Bay:

• My Dinh Bus Station (most convenient for western Hanoi and the airport zone)
• Gia Lam Bus Station (near Long Bien and Old Quarter)
• Giap Bat Bus Station (south of the city, most convenient for people coming from Ninh Binh or even farther south)

Buses here are run by reputable companies like Hoang Long, Viet Thanh, and Phuc Xuyen.

Travel time varies from 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and bus type.

Types of Public Buses: What’s the Difference?

Whether you’re after a quick ride or a local experience, there’s a bus that suits your travel plans. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Bus Type	Features	Travel Time	Ticket Price
Local Bus	Basic seating, more stops, frequent departures	3.5–4 hours	100,000–150,000 VND ($4–$6)
Sleeper Bus	Reclining beds, air conditioning, limited pick-up/drop	3–3.5 hours	150,000–200,000 VND ($6–$8)
Express Bus	Faster service via highway, fixed route, fewer delays	2.5–3 hours	180,000–250,000 VND ($7–$10)

Most public buses don’t offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrive at the station early, preferably 15–30 minutes before departure.

Pros & Cons of Taking the Public Bus

Pros:

• Extremely cost-effective
• Schedules from many different bus stations
• Solid local culture experience—interact with other Vietnamese travelers
• Ideal for spontaneous travel out of Hanoi

Cons:

• Less convenient than private cars or shuttle buses
• Could be short on bag service or in-seat comforts
• Schedules are changeable at any time without prior notice, so confirm your ride with the travel agents or the station staff
• Pick-up and drop-off options are limited

Travel Tips for Public Bus Riders

• Book tickets in advance from the bus stations, or through 12Go online
• Bring your valuables with you and label your luggage clearly
• Ask the bus assistant or the driver to double-check that you are going in the direction of Ha Long Bay
• Have some small cash ready; a few operators might not accept a card
• Attempt sleeper or express buses where possible for greater comfort, especially for longer trips

Option 5: Hanoi to Ha Long by Seaplane

What to Expect on Board

Your 45-minute seaplane journey from Hanoi to Ha Long includes:

• Premium, leather-trimmed seating for a group of up to 12 passengers
• Panoramic bird’s-eye views over Northern Vietnam, from rolling hills to the glinting coastline
• A stunning water take-off and landing at Tuan Chau Marina
• Onboard commentary to indicate to you the best views along the route
• Friendly, English-speaking crew trained to international standard

It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that honeymooners, photographers, and luxury adventurers simply sing about.

Flight Schedule, Travel Time & When to Book

• Travel time: Just 45–60 minutes from Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) to Tuan Chau (Ha Long Bay)
• Flight frequency: 1–2 flights per day, depending on weather and demand
• Booking tip: Reserve your seat at least 5–7 days in advance of departure, especially during peak seasons (March-May, October–December)

The Northern Vietnam climate is also a major consideration. Flights get rebooked or delayed due to fog, wind, or rain, so book only 24 hours ahead and have a flexible itinerary.

Who Is It For?

This mode of travel is best for:

• Time-starved tourists who need to pack as much into their vacation as possible
• Romantic couples or photographers who want awesome, once-in-a-lifetime pictures of Ha Long Bay
• Business travelers who combine efficiency with seclusion
• Luxury travelers offering their travel from Hanoi

Safety & Baggage Guidelines

Hai Au Aviation complies with severe Vietnamese and global aviation safety regulations:

• Pilots are licensed and qualified both for land and water operation
• Aircraft are serviced and checked routinely by licensed engineers
• Each passenger is limited to 7 kg of hand luggage
• Excess bags can be transported by road (via partner facilities)

Always carry your passport and booking receipt on arrival at Noi Bai Airport, and check in at least 30–45 minutes before departure.

Option 6: Hanoi to Ha Long by Train (via Hai Phong)

Train + Taxi Route Breakdown

The trip goes in two stages:

1. Hanoi → Hai Phong by Train
2. Hai Phong → Ha Long by Car or Taxi

Here’s how it breaks down:

Leg	Time	Cost (VND)	Notes
Hanoi → Hai Phong (Train)	~2.5 hours	80,000–100,000	Soft seats, fans, local vibe
Hai Phong → Ha Long (Taxi)	~1.5–2 hours	400,000–600,000	Book Grab, Xanh SM, or local taxi services
Total time	~4 to 4.5 hours	~500,000–700,000	Comfortable & affordable

Current Train Schedule from Hanoi to Hai Phong (2025)

Trains depart daily from Hanoi Railway Station (120 Le Duan) or Long n Station. The most common options are:

• LP3 – Departs 9:20 AM from Hanoi → Arrives Hai Phong 11:45 AM
• LP5 – Departs 3:20 PM from Hanoi → Arrives Hai Phong 5:45 PM
• HP2 – Departs 6:00 AM from Hai Phong → Arrives Hanoi 8:25 AM
• LP6 – Departs 6:10 PM from Hai Phong → Arrives Hanoi 8:35 PM

Note: Schedules may vary slightly by season. Always confirm exact times on the official Vietnam Railways site or via local travel agents 24 hours prior.

Pros & Cons Recap

Pros:

• Low cost and scenic views
• Comfortable ride, perfect for photo ops
• Great way to see how far is Halong Bay from Hanoi,  you’ll feel every kilometer!

Cons:

• Requires a taxi transfer after Hai Phong
• Less flexible on timing compared to shuttle buses
• Not ideal for rushed travel planning

Best Hanoi to Ha Long Transport by Traveler Type

Traveler Type	Recommended Transport Option	Why It Works
Budget Travelers	Public Bus / Standard Shuttle Bus	Lowest cost, reliable service from major bus stations, authentic experience
Families	Private Car / Limousine Shuttle	Flexible stops, comfort for all ages, room for luggage & strollers
Business/Comfort Seekers	Private Car / Seaplane (Hai Au Aviation)	Privacy, direct route, fast, perfect for busy schedules or relaxation
Adventure Seekers	Motorbike	Scenic ride, full freedom, best for exploring northern Vietnam independently
Cruise Travelers	Shuttle Bus with Cruise Drop-off	Hotel pick-up and drop-off align with cruise times, stress-free connection
Limited-Time Travelers	Seaplane	Fastest option, under 1 hour travel time, incredible aerial views

Conclusion

No matter what kind of travel you choose, your trip from Hanoi to Ha Long will be an unforgettable one. From budget bus Hanoi to Halong Bay travel to luxury seaplane adventures, there’s a way for every traveler. Want something more out of your transfer? Book your trip with one of our expertly curated Hanoi Tours to complete your experience. For comfort, value, and flexibility, don’t forget to explore our full Halong Hanoi transfer guide, and let your next great escape begin!

FAQ

What is the best way to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

The best way to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long depends on your budget, time, and style. For convenience and ease, a limousine shuttle bus or private car is a good option, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. In a hurry or not? Fly by seaplane with Hai Au Aviation, the fastest at 45 minutes. Tight budget? Take the bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay from Giap Bat station or My Dinh for an affordable ride.

How can I get to Halong Bay?

You can get to Ha Long Bay in several ways from the capital. The most popular Hanoi to Ha Long routes are:

• Shuttle buses (perfect for single or small group travelers)
• Private car rental (suitable for families or comfort seekers)
• Motorbike (perfect for adventure seekers)
• Public buses from major bus stations like My Dinh
• Seaplane through Hai Au Aviation for a luxurious, bird’s eye perspective

What is the best way to visit Halong Bay?

The best way to visit Halong Bay is to combine your Hanoi to Ha Long transfer with an overnight cruise. Most tourists take a shuttle bus or private transfer directly to Bai Chay Pier or Tuan Chau Marina, where the cruises depart. A 1 or 2-night cruise will help you view the limestone karsts, the hidden caves, and floating villages in depth.

How do I go to the Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi?

To take a cruise from Hanoi to Ha Long, book a transfer with cruise drop-off. There are numerous shuttle buses and limousine companies available that offer hotel pick up and drop in Hanoi and will transport you straight to your cruise terminal at Ha Long Bay,  no stress, no confusion. Simply inquire when you book with your travel agency or cruise line. Or, go by private car for total flexibility with time and stops.