📍For a bus and ferry trip from Hai Phong to Ha Long, the main departure point is Lach Tray Bus Station (Bến xe Lạch Tray). It is the largest and best-connected station in Hai Phong, serving numerous regional routes, including the one towards the ports for Ha Long.
🚇From Hai Phong city center, you can take a taxi or a 'xe ôm' (motorbike taxi) to get to Lach Tray Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes and costs between 50,000 and 100,000 VND, depending on traffic and the chosen mode of transport.
⏰Buses to Tuan Chau or ferry ports typically depart every 30 to 60 minutes, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Ferries have regular departures, often hourly or more frequently during peak season.
Traveling from Hải Phòng to Hạ Long is a key step for many Vietnam explorers, and like you, seeks clarity. Forget the uncertainty: you have two main options, both direct and affordable. The fastest is the bus, which takes you there in just 1 hour for about 4€.
Modern buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and typically depart from Hải Phòng's central bus station, which is easily accessible. The landscapes you'll pass through are typical of rural Vietnam, offering an authentic glimpse of local life. Another option is the ferry (around 10€, 1h), providing a more scenic approach by water.
For who wants to maximize his time, the bus is often preferred for its frequency and speed. There are no night buses for this short journey. You'll find reliable operators directly at the bus station or through online booking platforms, allowing you to secure your spot stress-free and without fear of scams, ensuring a smooth transition to the majestic Hạ Long Bay.
Frequently asked questions — Hai Phong → Ha Long
For most independent travelers like Thomas, the bus is the most recommended option. It's fast (about 1h), economical (around 4€), and offers frequent departures. The ferry is a more scenic alternative but less direct if you are not going to an island in the archipelago.
The bus journey typically takes 1 hour. The average bus ticket price is around 4€ (about 100,000 VND). If you choose the ferry, the journey also takes about 1 hour but costs a bit more, around 10€.
No, due to the short distance between Hải Phòng and Hạ Long (about 50-60 km), there are no night buses for this route. A day bus is the only option and is more than sufficient for this short trip, allowing you to arrive in Hạ Long during daylight hours.
✨ 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
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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
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Feb
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Mar
😊
Apr
😊
May
😐
Jun
😞
Jul
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Aug
😞
Sep
😐
Oct
😊
Nov
😊
Dec
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In Ha Long — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
INCONTOURNABLE
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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.
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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).
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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).
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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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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