

The Ha Long Bay to Hanoi distance is approximately 178 kilometers (Source: Collected)
1. Ha Long to Hanoi: Distance and travel time
Ha Long Bay and Hanoi are two prominent tourist destinations in northern Vietnam. The Ha Long Bay to Hanoi distance is approximately 178 kilometers. Traveling by road via the Ha Long – Hai Phong Expressway takes about 2.5 hours.
2. Best ways to travel from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi
Given the relatively short distance, there are several transport options to go from Ha Long to Hanoi, including seaplanes, coaches, and private vehicles. Each means of transport has its own advantages.
2.1. By seaplane
The seaplane is a unique option that offers the quickest ride from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi Airport (Noi Bai International Airport). Instead of a 2.5-hour drive, you can reach your destination in just 45 minutes. During the flight, you can enjoy the fabulous aerial views over the Red River Delta, with limestone karsts jutting up from jade-green waters.

A unique option for Ha Long Bay to Hanoi Airport transfer is the seaplane (Source: Collected)
This exclusive seaplane experience in Vietnam is provided by Hai Au Aviation. Details are as follows:
| Route | ETD – ETA | Duration | Itinerary | Fare (VND) |
| Ha Long – Hanoi | 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | 60 minutes (including a 15-minute scenic ride over Ha Long) |
Tuan Chau – Noi Bai | 10,800,000 |
| Ha Long – Hanoi | 4 PM – 4:45 PM | 45 minutes | Tuan Chau – Noi Bai | 8,400,000 |
*Note that these details are for reference purposes only. Contact Hai Au Aviation for the latest updates on schedules and fares.
Some important notes for seaplane travel from Ha Long to Hanoi:
- Bring an ID card or passport.
- Wear comfortable clothing for the flight.
- Ensure your luggage complies with safety regulations (no liquids or prohibited substances).
- Check-in counters open 1 hour and close 20 minutes before departure.
- Passengers can take photos and videos during the flight.
2.2. By coach
Taking a bus from Ha Long to Hanoi is a popular choice of the locals. There are two types of buses: the coach and the limousine bus. Coaches have cheap fares (around 100,000 VND) but longer travel time (about 5 hours). Meanwhile, limousine buses have higher fares (around 270,000 VND) but shorter travel time (about 2.5 hours). A reputable coach company that goes from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi is Kumho Viet Thanh. For limousine buses, there are Phuc Xuyen, Hoang Phu, Ha Long Travel, etc.

The Ha Long Bay to Hanoi bus route has about 460 trips daily (Source: Collected)
2.3. By private vehicle
Private vehicles are a great option for those seeking privacy and flexibility in their schedule. Adventurous travelers can opt for a motorbike, with daily rental fees around 150,000 VND. For group travel, you can rent a car and drive yourself, or hire a driver. If you want to drive yourself, ensure you have a valid driving license and are familiar with the local traffic laws. Otherwise, renting a car with a driver is suitable for those without a driving license or unfamiliar with the roads. Car rental fees range from 1,500,000 VND to 2,500,000 VND, depending on the type of vehicle (4-seater, 7-seater, or 16-seater).
In case you choose to drive yourself, the route will differ depending on whether you go by motorbike or car. For motorbikes, you will follow National Road 18. For cars, you will follow Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway, which does not allow motorbikes. Either way, Google Maps will be your best friend regarding navigation. The motorbike journey takes about 4 hours, while the car journey takes around 3 hours.

If you prefer privacy and flexibility in your schedule, rent a motorbike or car (Source: Collected)
More on: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay: Things to know to create a perfect itinerary in 2025
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3. Which transport option suits you best?
Below is a summary of the pros and cons of each option to help you choose the most suitable means of transport from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi, ensuring a smooth, safe, and memorable journey.
| Transport option | Pros | Cons |
| Seaplane |
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| Coach |
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| Private vehicle |
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Whether you choose the scenic seaplane, the convenient coach, or the flexible private vehicle, traveling from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi offers a range of options to suit your preferences. This journey ensures a memorable start to your exploration of Vietnam’s vibrant capital city.
In Hanoi, there are a myriad of cultural attractions to explore, such as Hanoi Old Quarter, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, etc.
For a youthful and dynamic experience in Hanoi, you can venture to Ocean City, a new, popular urban area located to the east of the city. Here, you can enjoy thrilling water games at VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, which is perfect for a summer holiday. After splashing around, you can come to the nearby Grand World to shop, dine, and take photos.

Grand World is an expensive hub for entertainment to the east of Hanoi
Book VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park ticket now
Book tickets of Grand World for a one-of-a-kind trip
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