How to get to Ha Long Bay? – A FULL guide for first-timers

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The exquisite natural settings of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam (Source: Collected)

The world-renowned Ha Long Bay beckons with its mystical beauty and rich heritage. Let’s unlock the gateway to paradise with our guide on how to get to Ha Long Bay Vietnam. Various transportation options are available, offering the utmost comfort and convenience as you venture to this enchanting wonderland. 

1. Where is Ha Long Bay?

Nestled in Quang Ninh Province, just 165 kilometers away from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay captivates with its enchanting landscape of emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. Spanning 1,553 square kilometers, it boasts 1,969 karst formations, creating a mesmerizing seascape. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay promises an enchanting retreat into nature, inviting travelers to discover its timeless beauty. Visitors can embark on boat cruises, exploring hidden caves, secluded beaches, and picturesque floating villages along the way.

2. How to get to Ha Long Bay from other countries?

Reaching Ha Long Bay from other countries is most commonly done through air travel. Travelers typically arrive at one of the three airports near Ha Long Bay: Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, Van Don Airport in Quang Ninh Province, or Cat Bi Airport in Hai Phong City. From these airports, visitors can easily arrange transportation to Ha Long Bay via taxis, motorbikes, or buses.

Air travel is the most convenient way to get to Ha Long from abroad (Source: Collected)

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): This is the largest airport in Northern Vietnam, situated in the capital city of Hanoi. 

• Van Don International Airport (VDO): This is Vietnam’s first private airport, located about 60 kilometers away from Ha Long City.

• Cat Bi International Airport (HPH): This is another transportation hub for Northern Vietnam, located in the port city of Hai Phong.

>>> Explore: Things to do in Ha Long Bay: 27 incredible ideas to include in your trip

3. How to go to Ha Long Bay from other parts of Vietnam?

3.1. How to get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi?

To cover the approximately 165-kilometer distance from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, travelers have several transportation options:

• Coach: Departing from various bus stations in Hanoi, coaches offer a budget-friendly means for covering the Hanoi to Ha Long Bay distance.

• Motorbike/car: Renting a motorbike or car provides flexibility, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace and stop at scenic points along the way.

• Limousine bus: This is a convenient option for those booking Ha Long tours. Pickups are widely available in Hanoi Old Quarter and other central districts.

• Seaplane: This is the perfect answer for how to get from Hanoi airport to Ha Long Bay for a unique experience. Departing from Noi Bai Airport, this short flight provides stunning aerial views of Northern Vietnam in general and Ha Long Bay in particular.

How long from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay? – It takes about 2.5 hours to travel by car (Source: Collected)

3.2. How to go to Ha Long Bay from Sapa?

Ha Long Bay and Sapa, two renowned destinations in Northern Vietnam, are 475 kilometers apart. To get from Sapa to Ha Long Bay, travelers can choose among the following options:

• Sleeper bus: There are many sleeper buses that can take you directly from Sapa to Ha Long. They are typically a bigger and better version of coaches.

• Motorbike/car: Again, renting a motorbike or car provides flexibility and the opportunity to witness the scenery along the way.

• Train: The train station in Ha Long is no longer in operation. If you are still fond of train rides, you can take a train to Hanoi first, then transfer to Ha Long by other means. This is a viable option in case you want to make a stop at Hanoi before going to Ha Long.

>>> Discover: Ha Giang to Ha Long Bay: A complete guide for travelers

3.3. How to get from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay?

Ninh Binh is another prominent destination in Northern Vietnam, which is roughly 200 kilometers away from Ha Long. To get to Ha Long Bay from Ninh Binh, options are the same as with departing from Hanoi:

• Coach

• Motorbike/car

• Limousine bus 

How to get to Ha Long Bay? – Limousine bus is a popular option (Source: Collected)

3.4. How to go to Ha Long Bay from Hai Phong?

Hai Phong is a city adjacent to Quang Ninh Province. Thus, there are more transportation options regarding how to get to Ha Long Bay from Hai Phong:

• Motorbike/car

• Limousine bus

• Taxi: Taxis offer a direct and efficient way to reach Ha Long Bay, albeit at a higher cost compared to other options.

• Cruise: Cruising from Hai Phong to Ha Long Bay is a scenic option. Travelers can enjoy onboard amenities while experiencing the bay’s beauty.

>>> Read more: Cat Ba to Ha Long Bay: A detailed guide on transportation

3.5. How to get to Ha Long Bay from Da Nang?

Da Nang is a city in Central Vietnam, a considerable distance away from Ha Long Bay in Northern Vietnam. There are multiple means of transportation for tourists wishing to get from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay:

• Sleeper bus: You will need to take a sleeper bus from Da Nang to Hanoi first, then transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long by other means.

• Plane: Travelers can take connecting flights from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay, with a layover in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The airports of arrival can either be Van Don or Cat Bi.

• Train: You will need to take a train from Da Nang to Hanoi first, then transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long by other means.

You can get from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay by air (Source: Collected)

3.6. How to get to Ha Long Bay from Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City is located in Southern Vietnam, which is even further away. There are numerous means of transportation from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long Bay:

• Sleeper bus: You will need to take a sleeper bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi first, then transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long by other means.

• Plane: How to get to Ha Long Bay from Ho Chi Minh City? Flying is the fastest way. There are direct flights from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Van Don Airport or Cat Bi Airport.

• Train: You will need to take a train from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi first, then transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long by other means.

3.7. How to get to Ha Long Bay from Phu Quoc Island?

The most common way to travel to Ha Long Bay from Phu Quoc is by air. However, as there are no direct flights from Phu Quoc to Van Don Airport or Cat Bi Airport, travelers often opt for connecting flights. Airfares typically average at 160 USD per one-way ticket. The flight duration is approximately 7 hours, including layovers.

*Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for reference purposes only and is subject to change over time.

How to get to Ha Long Bay from Phu Quoc? – Flying! (Source: Collected)

>>> Read more: Hotels in Ha Long Bay: Find your ideal stay for an unforgettable getaway

4. Tips for a smooth trip to Ha Long Bay

• Book your tickets in advance to secure the best options.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Consider joining a guided tour to maximize your experiences.
• Secure your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Familiarize yourself with the local customs for an enjoyable experience.

Knowing how to get to Ha Long Bay ensures visitors embark on their exploration confidently. Various transportation options cater to diverse preferences. Each allows travelers to experience the wonders of this iconic destination with ease.

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Beyond Ha Long, Vietnam boasts a myriad of other enchanting destinations, including Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Each place provides a distinct insight into Vietnam’s vibrant culture, history, and natural landscapes, guaranteeing a joyful journey brimming with cherished moments and remarkable encounters.

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