By Evelyn Nguyen, Sep 4, 2024
As two of the most iconic destinations in Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay shine as the jewels of Vietnam's travel landscape. Many visitors, after arriving in Hanoi, make their way on a journey that takes them from the tranquil landscapes of Ninh Binh to the breathtaking cruise of Halong Bay.
If you're looking for the best way to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, you've come to the right place to get to and around Halong Bay and Ninh Binh. Incredible Asia Journeys is here to cover all the info you need for your journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay nothing short of extraordinary.
Ninh Binh in lotus season in summer
The Ninh Binh to Halong Bay distance is approximately 200 kilometers (about 124 miles). Typically, the Halong Bay tour from Ninh Binh can take anywhere from 3.5 to 5 hours. This route takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes of the Red River Delta in Northern Vietnam such as Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam), Cat Ba (Hai Phong),...
The most common route from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is via National Highway 10 or the newer Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway, which then connects to the Halong-Hai Phong Expressway. If you wonder how to travel from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh, swipe up to see the options for transportation.
Ninh Binh shuttle bus
How to get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay? Shuttle buses and limousines from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay vans are popular choices for travelers looking for comfort and convenience. These vehicles typically follow the expressway route, reducing travel time to around 3.5-4 hours.
Prices for a one-way trip range from 250,000 - 300,000 VND for pickup at Tam Coc Center (extra price of +50,000 VND in outside center) (approximately $10-14), depending on the service and vehicle type. Limousine vans offer plush seating, air conditioning, and sometimes even Wi-Fi and refreshments for a pleasant Ninh Binh - Halong Bay journey.
For budget travelers, the local bus in Ninh Binh is a viable option. These buses also take the highway route, though the journey may be slightly longer, around 4.5-5 hours, due to frequent stops.
The cost is generally between 150,000 to 200,000 VND (approximately $6-9). While local buses lack the luxury of shuttle services, they provide basic amenities like air conditioning and space for luggage, however, there is a language barrier between foreign tourists and drivers.
16-seat Ninh Binh to Halong private car
Hiring a Ninh Binh to Halong Bay private car is the perfect choice for travelers who prioritize comfort, convenience, and flexibility taking around 3.5-4 hours. A 4-seater car from Ninh Binh-Tuan Chau Harbor (Halong Bay) is priced at about 2,000,000 VND ($85) for an intimate and comfortable experience for couples or small groups.
For slightly larger groups, a 7-seater car is available for nearly 2,100,000 VND ($90) with more space while maintaining a similar level of comfort. If you’re traveling with a larger group, a 16-seater van can be rented for about 2,800,000 VND ($120), ensuring that everyone can travel together in comfort.
What will you explore in a Ninh Binh - Halong Bay itinerary? Below are the top places to visit in Ninh Binh and Halong Bay that you shouldn’t miss.
Tam Coc Boat Tour
Often sticking its name as the “Halong Bay on land”, Tam Coc in Ninh Binh is famous for its Tam Coc boat tour along the stunning limestone karsts, caves, and serene waterways. As you cruise along the Ngo Dong River, you'll be treated to amazing views of the mountains and lush rice paddies. This peaceful and picturesque setting makes Tam Coc a perfect stop to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
As the sister site to Tam Coc, Trang An is a stunning complex of rivers, caves, and towering limestone cliffs that has earned its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A boat tour through Trang An takes you on a journey through a network of caves and ancient temples. Whether you choose to explore Tam Coc or Trang An, both destinations are well worth a visit on your journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay.
Hoa Lu Ancient Town in night
Hoa Lu, once the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties, is home to several well-preserved temples and monuments, including the temples dedicated to emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh.
On the Ninh Binh City tour, visitors can enhance their experience by engaging in activities such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) to witness the sunset on Ky Lan Lake.
Sung Sot Cave in Halong Bay
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay. Located on Bo Hon Island, this two-chambered cave system is renowned for its vast and awe-inspiring formations. As you enter the cave, you'll be greeted by an expansive interior filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites that create a magical and otherworldly atmosphere. You can book a Halong Bay overnight cruise to add this site to the itinerary.
Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave) is another remarkable natural attraction in Halong Bay. Known for its elaborate stalactite and stalagmite formations, Thien Cung Cave is celebrated for its stunning and surreal interior. Inside the cave, you'll find different areas with big chambers filled with colorful rock formations that look like mythical creatures and scenes from a fantasy world.
Eco resort in Trang An Ninh Binh
If you stay in Ninh Binh and prepare for the Halong Bay tour, we will recommend some places to stay overnight in different regions in Ninh Binh.
In Ninh Binh’s city center, you’ll find many hotels that have easy access to local amenities and transportation options. Staying in the city center makes it straightforward to arrange travel to Halong Bay and explore other nearby attractions, you can refer to some hotels such as Ninh Binh Legend Hotel, The Vissai Hotel,...
For a more scenic and tranquil stay, you can stay near Tam Coc. Accommodations in this area often include homestays and boutique hotels, such as Tam Coc Garden Resort, Nham Village Resort, Tam Coc River View Homestay, Tam Coc Bungalow, Emeralda Resort - Tam Coc,...
And if you choose to stay near Trang An Complex, this destination often offers a serene environment with guesthouses and boutique hotels. Some recommended places to stay include Trang An Eco-Lodge, Mua Caves Ecolodge, Trang An Retreat,...
The traditional atmosphere in Ninh Binh homestay
8:30 AM: Begin your Halong Bay boat tour as our tour guide and driver pick you up from your hotel for a Ninh Binh day trip to the breathtaking Trang An landscape. Here, you'll board a traditional sampan boat, drifting through serene rivers and passing through caves like Hang Toi (Dark Cave), which stretches 320 meters, Hang Sang (Light Cave) at 90 meters, and Hang Nau Ruou (Cooking Wine Cave) at 250 meters.
You’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling some of the region's delicious cuisine.
In the afternoon, we’ll travel to explore the Thien Ha Cave (Galaxy Cave). Upon arrival at Nha Le Pier, you'll have a 30-minute boat ride under the stars. Afterward, explore the 200-meter-long dry cave on foot, then return by sampan through the Water Cave.
Finally, you'll be transported back to your hotel for an overnight stay in Ninh Binh.
Trang An Complex
8:00 AM: Start your Halong Bay tour from Ninh Binh with a scenic drive from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay. As you journey through the Northern Vietnam countryside, you'll take in beautiful landscapes that showcase the region's natural beauty.
11:30 AM: Upon arriving at Tuan Chau Harbor, you'll check in and transfer to V’Spirit Cruises via a tender boat.
12:00 - 12:30 PM: Transfer to V’Spirit Cruises, where you'll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and a brief orientation.
1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at The Dawn Restaurant while the cruise navigates through the stunning seascapes of Halong Bay, moving toward the lesser-known Lan Ha Bay.
2:45 PM: The afternoon brings an exciting kayaking adventure in the Tra Bau area, where you can paddle close to rocky islands and, weather permitting, pass by a hidden temple used by local fishing villagers.
4:15 PM: Cool off with a swim or simply relax on a float in the bay's emerald waters.
5:00 PM: Participate in a cooking demonstration to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and create your special flavors.
5:30 - 6:30 PM: Enjoy a sunset party on the deck, with complimentary drinks and a stunning view of twilight over the limestone islands.
7:00 PM: Dine at the restaurant, where a fine dining experience awaits, creating memorable moments of the day.
9:00 PM: After dinner, unwind on the top deck, participate in a game show at the bar, or try your luck with squid fishing. Optional activities include a relaxing spa treatment or simply enjoying the views from your cabin.
Enjoy lunch at The Dawn Restaurant
6:15 AM: Start the day by practicing a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the bay.
7:00 AM: A light breakfast is served at The Dawn Restaurant.
8:00 - 8:30 AM: Transfer to a day tour cruise that takes you deeper into Lan Ha Bay.
9:00 AM: Arrive at the pier and choose between a bicycle or electric car ride to Viet Hai Village. This 6-kilometer journey offers scenic views of a beautiful lagoon and a lovely cave, leading you to the hidden village of Viet Hai.
11:30 AM: Return to the day tour cruise for lunch.
2:00 PM: Continue your adventure by kayaking through the fish farms at Viet Hai pier, then head to Ba Trai Dao for a relaxing swim or simply unwind on a pristine beach.
4:30 PM: Return to the cruise to enjoy the sunset, perhaps with a cocktail in hand.
5:30 - 6:30 PM: Take time to relax, whether by taking a refreshing shower or lounging in the bathtub. Also, you will enjoy the "Happy Hour" at the top deck bar in the view of the sunset over the bay.
7:00 PM: Have a delicious dinner at the restaurant. Afterward, enjoy drinks at the open bar on the top deck, try squid fishing, or unwind with a spa treatment before retiring to your cabin.
Cycling in Viet Hai Village
6:15 AM: Begin your morning with another peaceful Tai Chi session on the sundeck.
7:00 AM: Enjoy a light breakfast as you take in the morning views.
7:30 - 8:45 AM: Explore Bright Cave, a hidden gem, aboard a traditional bamboo boat rowed by locals.
9:00 AM: Return to the cruise, where you'll check out of your cabin.
9:30 AM: Relish a luxurious set-menu brunch at the restaurant while the cruise makes its way back to Tuan Chau port.
11:00 AM: At the Tuan Chau port, your driver will be waiting to take you back to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, check into your hotel and reflect on the incredible journey you've just experienced through Ninh Binh to Halong Bay cruise.
Kayaking in Hoa Lu Ancient Town
If you're thinking about Vietnam tour packages, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay are a great duo. They're both UNESCO World Heritage sites, not too far from each other, and they show off Vietnam's natural beauty and history in a big way. Seriously, don't miss out on these spots when you're planning your Vietnam trip. Contact Incredible Asia Journeys to put together your own customized itinerary and get a free quote.
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