Vietnam

How to get from Da Nang to Ha Long

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
1h
💶
From
18€
📍
Distance
557 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 2 way(s) to get from Da Nang to Ha Long

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Da Nang
📍For departures from Da Nang to Ha Long, the flight option leaves from Da Nang International Airport (DAD), a modern hub located close to the city center. It is one of Vietnam's three major international airports, offering comprehensive facilities for travelers.
🚇From Da Nang city center, the airport is easily accessible by taxi or Grab (VND 60,000-100,000, 10-15 min) or by motorbike taxi (VND 30,000-50,000, 15-20 min). There isn't a very convenient public bus option directly to the airport from the city center.
Flights from Da Nang to Hai Phong (the nearest airport to Ha Long) typically have multiple daily departures, especially in the morning and afternoon, with high frequency on major airlines. Intercity buses from Da Nang bus station are also frequent.
💸 Transport from 18€ per person
Fastest: 1h
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

🛣️ The journey experience

Traveling from Đà Nẵng to Hạ Long means crossing a significant part of __Vietnam__, and for independent traveler the choice of transport is crucial for optimizing time and budget. Two main options are available: bus or plane. The bus is an economical solution, with an average cost of 18€ for approximately 9 hours of travel. Sleeper buses are very popular in Vietnam, offering individual berths, sometimes a bit narrow for taller individuals but generally comfortable for an overnight journey. The passing landscapes provide an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese rural life.

Reliable companies like Futa Bus Lines (Phương Trang) or Hoang Long operate this route. Departing from Đà Nẵng bus station and arriving near Hạ Long city (often Tuan Chau or Bai Chay) allows you to save a night's accommodation and arrive in the early morning, ready to explore the bay. The plane, although more expensive (around 35€), is incomparably faster, with only a 1-hour flight. This is the ideal option for those who want to maximize their exploration time. You will depart from Đà Nẵng Airport (DAD) and land at Cat Bi Airport (HPH) in Hai Phong, which is the closest airport to Hạ Long Bay.

From there, a short taxi or shuttle transfer is required to reach the cruise departure ports. Choosing to fly avoids the fatigue of a long land journey and saves an entire day. Both options can be booked online through secure platforms like 12Go. asia or directly on airline or bus company websites, ensuring transparent pricing and helping you avoid scams.

Frequently asked questions — Da Nang → Ha Long

✨ Why visit Ha Long?

  • Memorable cruise on a traditional junk amidst thousands of limestone karsts
  • Exploration of majestic caves like Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) or Thien Cung Cave
  • Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in hidden lagoons and under natural arches
  • Visiting floating fishing villages such as Cua Van to discover local way of life
  • Tasting fresh seafood and local specialties directly on your junk boat
🌙
Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — For a full immersion with a relaxing cruise and island exploration.

☀️ When to visit Ha Long?

TROPICAL HUMID CLIMATE

September to November and March to May — Pleasant weather, clear skies and comfortable temperatures for cruising.

Jan 😐
Feb 😊
Mar 😊
Apr 😊
May 😐
Jun 😞
Jul 😞
Aug 😞
Sep 😐
Oct 😊
Nov 😊
Dec 😐
📍
In Ha Long — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Ha Long
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Ha Long?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
Junk boat cruise — Ha Long Bay
2,000 limestone islands rise from the emerald green water of Ha Long Bay, twice listed as UNESCO heritage. A 2-day/1-night junk cruise lets you sail between karst pinnacles, explore caves and kayak into lagoons. Cruises from €60/night all-inclusive.
🛶
Kayaking through caves and lagoons
Paddle through karst tunnels to reach hidden lagoons inaccessible to large boats. Bo Nau Cave and Ti Top Island beaches are the must-see spots. Included in most cruises, or as a day trip from Cat Ba (~€25).
🏝️
Cat Ba Island — hiking and beach
The bay's largest island hosts a national park with golden langurs (endemic species), hiking trails and unspoilt beaches. Less touristy than standard cruises, Cat Ba is perfect as a 2-3 day base for kayaking and cycling. Ferry from Haiphong (~€3).
🦑
Night squid fishing
On cruises, light-line squid fishing is organised in the evenings from the deck. Local fishermen show the technique — be prepared to eat your catch cooked on board. A convivial and authentic activity included in most cruises.
🕳️
Thien Cung Cave — giant stalactites
Heavenly Palace Cave, accessible from the bay, is one of Ha Long's most impressive. Its stalactites and stalagmites form fantastic shapes lit by coloured spotlights. Included in most cruises or as a day excursion (~€3 entry).
🌅
Sunrise over the karsts
Rising at 5:30am on the junk deck to watch the sun gradually redden the limestone pinnacles in the bay's silence. Morning mist, perfect reflections and no crowds — the most contemplative moment of a Ha Long Bay cruise. Free, included in any cruise.
🧗
Rock climbing on limestone cliffs — Cat Ba
Ha Long and Cat Ba are recognised climbing destinations in Southeast Asia. Vertical limestone cliffs offer routes of all levels above turquoise water. Local schools offer beginner sessions from €30 with guide and equipment.
🍜
Cua Van floating fishing village
One of the world's most beautiful floating villages according to UNESCO. Hundreds of moored houses float between limestone pinnacles, home to fishermen for generations. Accessible by kayak or rowboat on cruises — a glimpse of aquatic life few travellers truly experience.

⏱️ How long to visit Ha Long?

1 to 3 days

For a comprehensive exploration of Ha Long Bay, 2 days and 1 night are ideal, allowing for an overnight cruise. If you have less time, a day trip from Hanoi is feasible but more intense. For those who want to combine with Cat Ba Island, plan for 3 days.

Related searches

bus Da Nang Ha Long flight Da Nang Ha Long how to get from Da Nang to Ha Long ticket price Da Nang to Ha Long travel time Da Nang to Ha Long travel to Vietnam

Other trips from Da Nang