Hanoi to Ha Long: Bus, Train, Ferry

There are 1 way(s) to get from Hanoi to Ha Long

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

🚌 Departure from Hanoi

📍The main departure point for buses to Hạ Long is Mỹ Đình Bus Station (Bến xe Mỹ Đình). Located in western Hanoi, it's a large, modern, and well-organized station serving numerous provincial destinations. It features ticket counters, waiting areas, small shops, and restaurants.

🚇From the city center (Hoan Kiem Lake/Old Quarter), you can take a taxi or a ride-hailing service (Grab) for approximately 200,000 - 250,000 VND, taking 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses (lines 16, 20, 34) are a more economical option (around 7,000 - 15,000 VND) but take longer (45-60 minutes).

⏰Buses to Hạ Long are frequent, with departures every 30 to 60 minutes, typically from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during weekends or public holidays.

🛣️ The journey experience

The journey from __Hanoi__ to __Ha Long__ is an essential gateway to the famous Ha Long Bay. For independent travelers like the bus is the most direct and popular option. Departures typically occur from My Dinh or Luong Yen bus stations in Hanoi, which are well-served and easily accessible.

Reputable operators such as __Ha Long__ Express, Phuc Xuyen, or Kumho Viet Thanh offer comfortable buses, often equipped with reclining seats and air conditioning. The route is smooth and well-maintained, showcasing typical Vietnamese countryside landscapes, from rice paddies to small villages. The trip takes approximately 2 hours, which is perfect for arriving mid-morning or afternoon, leaving plenty of time to settle in or start an excursion.

There are no night buses for this short journey, so no hotel night saving. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a seat and avoid unreliable street agencies. Traveling from __Hanoi__ to __Ha Long__ by bus is a simple and efficient experience, ensuring you reach your destination without stress.

Frequently asked questions — Hanoi → Ha Long

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✨ Why visit Ha Long?

✓ Memorable cruise on a traditional junk through thousands of iconic limestone karsts.
✓ Exploration of Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace) and Dau Go (Wooden Stakes) caves with their stunning stalagmite/stalactite formations.
✓ Kayaking or stand-up paddling in hidden lagoons and through rock-carved tunnels.
✓ Visiting a floating fishing village to discover the local way of life and pearl farming.
✓ Swimming and relaxing on secluded beaches like Titop Island, offering panoramic views from its peak.

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Recommended stay

2 to 3 nights — To fully enjoy cruises, water activities, and island exploration.

☀️ When to visit Ha Long?

October to April — Dry and sunny season, pleasant temperatures for cruises and outdoor activities.

What to do in Ha Long?

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.

Other trips from Hanoi

Hanoi → Bangkok 1h · From 14€ Hanoi → Buon Ma Thuot 1h 30min · From 18€ Hanoi → Cao Bang 4h 49min · From 14€ Hanoi → Cat Ba 1h · From 5€ Hanoi → Chiang Mai 1h 30min · From 18€ Hanoi → Da Lat 2h · From 18€ Hanoi → Da Nang 1h 30min · From 15€ Hanoi → Cat Ba 1h · From 8€ Hanoi → Dien Bien Phu 4h 33min · From 8€ Hanoi → Dong Hoi 1h · From 12€ Hanoi → Ha Giang 3h 22min · From 8€ Hanoi → Ha Long 1h 58min · From 5€

How to get from Hanoi to Ha Long

🗺️ Route & distance: Hanoi → Ha Long