How to Get to Halong Bay

1. Motorbike

If you’re considering an adventure in Vietnam, one of the most thrilling ways to explore the countryside is by motorbike! Cruising through Vietnam's stunning landscapes on your own motorcycle is an unforgettable experience. A motorbike journey allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, taking breaks at your convenience in the quaint towns scattered throughout Northern Vietnam.

Motorbikes are the most popular mode of transport in Vietnam. 

Renting a motorbike is a favorite choice among travelers, providing a cost-effective way to explore the sights without emptying your wallet. Fuel is affordable, and you can typically rent a motorbike at a reasonable price from local hotels or hostels. If that’s not an option, a quick search online can connect you with trustworthy motorbike rental services. Just remember that a deposit is usually required in addition to the rental fee.

When traveling from one city to another, expect several hours on the road. Be sure to take ample breaks to stretch and enjoy local snacks and refreshments. However, this form of transport is recommended for seasoned riders familiar with the chaotic traffic conditions typical in Vietnam. A lengthy motorbike trip is not ideal for novice riders.

• Pros: Enjoy the freedom to travel at your preferred pace, stopping whenever you wish, making it a fantastic option for budget-minded individuals, with fuel costs being low in Vietnam. Riding a motorbike allows for a rich experience, immersing yourself in the beautiful scenery.
• Cons: Navigating traffic in Vietnam can be hazardous for inexperienced drivers. Long journeys might become uncomfortable. Additionally, the region's weather is unpredictable, and sudden rainstorms could affect your travel plans.

Motorbike Rentals

Distance

Below are the average distances between major cities in Vietnam and Halong Bay, which may assist in planning your road trip.

Cities	Distance	Mileage	Est. Time (Road trip)
Hanoi	175 km	108 miles	2 hrs 30 mins
Ninh Binh	210 km	130 miles	3 hrs 30 mins
Hai Phong	65 km	40 miles	1 hr 30 mins
Sapa	503 km	313 miles	7 hrs 30 mins
Hue	790 km	491 miles	14 hrs 30 mins
Da Nang	885 km	550 miles	16 hrs
Hoi An	915 km	569 miles	16 hrs 40 mins
Nha Trang	1407 km	873 miles	24 hrs 45 mins
Dalat	1535 km	853 miles	28 hrs 15 mins
Ho Chi Minh City	1805 km	1120 miles	33 hrs 15 mins
Phu Quoc	1750 km	1087 miles	31 hrs 45 mins

2. Public Bus

Inside a sleeper bus in Vietnam. 

Traveling by bus remains a budget-friendly option in Vietnam. There are several types of buses available for long-distance journeys, including local buses, luxury buses, and private shuttle buses. The pricing for each option varies based on the company, but all are relatively affordable. Local buses operate similarly to coaches, stopping occasionally for breaks, which offer chances to purchase snacks. However, given the length of many trips, it's wise to carry your own refreshments and water.

If you're planning an overnight journey, sleeper buses are available that allow passengers to recline fully. Comfort can vary significantly based on the bus company you choose. Tickets are typically purchased at the station prior to boarding. While local buses are ideal for budget travelers, keep in mind that lower costs may come with trade-offs in comfort. For more amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and spacious seating, consider opting for a luxury bus, which comes at a slightly higher price.

Private shuttle buses are typically minivans and can offer a more comfortable experience for shorter rides. They are usually more expensive than local buses but provide quicker service and often include pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, which is convenient. Reservations for private shuttle services can often be arranged through your hotel or hostel.

• Pros: Buses are affordable and relatively fast. Paying slightly more can provide amenities like Wi-Fi. Private shuttle buses often include pickup and drop-off services, along with perks like bottled water.
• Cons: Buses generally offer limited privacy. The availability of restroom facilities may be inadequate or nonexistent. Some buses may make unscheduled stops to pick up additional passengers, which can extend travel time.

Bus Timetables

Route	Bus Company	Time	Price
Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Ninh	Hoang Long Bus (38-seater)	18:30 to 08:30 (+1 day or 14 hours)	840,000 VND (To book: 028 3920920)
Da Nang to Bay Chay Bus Station (for Halong)	Vạn Lục Tùng (46-seater)	15:00 to 07:30 (+1 day or 16 hours 30 minutes)	420,000 VND (To book: 097 536 33 77)
Hanoi to Halong Bay (See our bus guide)	Various operators	Multiple departures available	Approx. 250,000 VND

3. Reunification Express Train

Trains from South to North, via Hai Van Pass 

Traveling across Vietnam by train remains one of the most cherished experiences for locals and tourists alike in 2025. The country boasts an extensive railway system that allows passengers to fully appreciate the stunning vistas at a more relaxed pace than bus or motorbike travel. Train fares continue to be quite affordable, with options for soft or hard seats, as well as sleeper cabins, catering to various budgets and preferences. While train journeys can take longer than other means of transportation, they often serve as a unique and comfortable way to see the country.

You can easily book train tickets through the Vietnam Railways official website (https://dsvn.vn), where you have the option to print your tickets or collect them at the station. Additionally, if you prefer assistance, many hotels and hostels can help arrange your train tickets.

• Pros: Train travel is considered one of the safest transport options available, offering remarkable views of Vietnam's landscapes. It's also budget-friendly and provides a comfortable journey!
• Cons: Travel times can be lengthy, making train transportation less suitable for those with tight schedules.

Timetable

Currently, there are no direct trains to Ha Long Bay. Therefore, travelers must take a train to Hanoi and then transfer to a bus or another train bound for Ha Long.

Trains	Route	Time	Price
SE8	Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi	06:00 - 15:33 (+1 day or 33h)	1,220,000 VND (Soft-Sleeper)
SE2	Nha Trang - Hanoi	03:21 - 04:50 (+1 day or 25h)	1,430,000 VND (Soft-Sleeper)
SE6	Da Nang - Hanoi	03:04 - 19:58 (16h 54m)	1,570,000 VND (Soft-Sleeper)

4. Private Car

Renting a private car (either self-drive or with a driver) remains an accessible option in Vietnam. Remember that the country adheres to right-hand traffic (RHT).

For those seeking an unparalleled travel experience, hiring a private car to Halong Bay is an excellent option. This choice stands out as the quickest and most luxurious way to reach the destination, albeit at a higher cost. Opting for a private vehicle also offers considerable flexibility, allowing for pickup and drop-off at preferred locations, adherence to your schedule, and the ability to make impromptu stops along the way. Private cars can generally be booked via a local taxi service or directly through your cruise provider.

• Pros: Utilizing a private car provides a high level of privacy. It is one of the most comfortable travel methods and also the swiftest route to Halong Bay. Some services may include amenities such as Wi-Fi and complimentary bottled water.
• Cons: This mode of transportation tends to be among the more expensive options for reaching Halong Bay.

Pro tip: Always negotiate and finalize the fare before embarking on your journey to avoid unexpected price increases.

How to book: For services in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, consider contacting VN Rent A Car Co., Ltd at +84 964 058 978.

Additionally, as of 2025, other reputable car rental services include Hanoi Transfer Service at +84 98 19 23 139, and VietCar at +84 91 550 95 95, which provide competitive rates and various vehicle options to suit your travel needs.

5. Airplane

Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Daily non-stop flights are available from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don Airport.

If you're traveling from locations beyond Hanoi, you can opt for a flight to Van Don Airport in Quang Ninh Province. Opened in December 2018, Van Don Airport is situated approximately 53 km (31 miles) from Halong City. Thanks to the newly constructed expressway connecting the airport to Halong City, the travel time via car or bus is only about one hour. Currently, the only direct flights to Van Don Airport are from Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers from other cities can catch flights to Ho Chi Minh City and then connect to Van Don with a layover. During the off-peak season, direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City may cost as low as $44. Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways are the airlines currently operating flights to Van Don Airport.

• Pros: If traveling to Halong Bay from across Vietnam, taking a flight can significantly reduce your travel time. The flight is both quick and comfortable.
• Cons: For travelers coming from cities other than Ho Chi Minh City, expect a layover there. Flying might not be the most economical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Check out our guide on Airports near Halong Bay for the latest flight schedules to Van Don Airport, the closest airport to Halong Bay.

6. Seaplane

Seaplane Aircraft at Noi Bai Airport (Photo credit: Seaplanes.vn)

If you're looking for a thrilling way to reach Halong Bay, consider taking a seaplane from Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport to Tuan Chau Marina, where you can board your cruise or head directly to your hotel. This mode of transportation offers a swift, enjoyable ride and presents a unique opportunity to capture unforgettable views of Halong Bay. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes, and it is exclusively available from Hanoi.

Prices may vary significantly based on the season, with demand surging during peak times. Additionally, you have the option to enhance your experience with a 15-minute scenic tour of Halong Bay included in your flight.

• Pros: The quickest way to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay. The seaplane experience is extraordinary and provides stunning aerial views of Halong Bay.
• Cons: Traveling by seaplane can be quite expensive compared to other modes of transport.

Scheduled Flight Information

Route	Time	Price
Hanoi - Halong (HAI601)	09:00-10:00 (Low season) - 60 minutes with scenic 09:20-10:20/10:05-11:05 (High season) - 60 minutes with scenic	VND 8,500,000 (Low season) VND 10,300,000 (High season)
Hanoi - Halong (HAI603)	14:00-14:45 (Low season) - 45 minutes no scenic 14:30-15:15 (High season) - 45 minutes no scenic	VND 5,000,000 (Low season) VND 5,000,000 (High season)

Notes: Low season runs from April 16 to September 30, while high season is from October 1 to April 15.

How to book: Hai Au Aviation - +84 962 069 689. Address: 11th Floor, 70-72 Ba Trieu Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam.