Round Trip: Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay – 3 Convenient Travel Options

PLANNING A TRIP FROM HANOI AIRPORT TO HALONG BAY?

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Hey there, traveler! Ready to explore the stunning Halong Bay? But wait, you’re at Hanoi Airport, right? No worries, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you plan your journey from Hanoi Airport to the breathtaking Halong Bay. Trust us, a little planning goes a long way!

Understanding the Distance from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

First things first, let’s talk about distance. Hanoi Airport, also known as Noi Bai International Airport, is approximately 190 kilometers away from Halong Bay via New Highway 5B. This is the faster route but you need to pay the toll fees. 

If you opt for National Road 18, the distance shortens to approximately 160 kilometers. However, it might take you around 3.5 hours due to traffic. 

So, pick your route wisely!

Read also: Getting from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Transportation Options from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

Embarking on a journey from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay? We’ve got you covered!

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you have several options to reach Halong Bay.

The most common way to travel from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay area is by road. You can either hire a private car or take a shuttle bus. There is no direct bus from Hanoi airport to Halong Bay so look for buses heading towards towns near Halong Bay, such as Bai Chay or Tuan Chau. These towns are located close to Halong Bay and serve as popular entry points for tourists.

Once you reach your designated town, you can easily find transportation options, such as taxis, local buses, or shared mini-busses, that can take you directly to Halong Bay. These services are commonly available at transportation hubs or nearby tourist areas.

Book a Ticket from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

Bus, Van, or Limousine: Popular Choice

Traveling by bus from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay is a popular choice due to its affordability and convenience. Travel takes about 3-4 hours.

You can opt for a luxury bus, such as Co To Limousine or Tam Bao Anh Limousine, which offers comfortable leather seats and high-end audio systems. 

Alternatively, you can choose a larger 45-seater bus like Anbasco Noi Bai Services for a more budget-friendly option. However, keep in mind that larger buses may not provide the same level of service as luxury buses.

Bus/Van	Pick up	Destination	Cost
Anbasco Noibai Services	Terminal 2, Column 10	Halong city center	~15 USD
Co To Limousine	Arrival Hall A, Terminal 1	Tuan Chau, Bai Chay, Hon Gai	~20 USD
Tam Bao Anh Limousine	Arrival Hall A, Terminal 1	Tuan Chau, Bai Chay, Hon Gai	~15 USD

Bus Schedule from Hanoi/Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

Halong City Center (~17 km to Halong Bay)

To get from Halong city center to Halong Bay, you have several options:

• By Taxi or Grab: This is the most convenient way to travel. The distance between the city center and Halong Bay is approximately 20 kilometers, and the journey should take around 30 minutes. The cost will depend on the exact distance and the taxi company, but it should be relatively affordable.
• By Bus: There are local buses that run between the city center and Halong Bay. This is a cheaper option, but it may take longer due to multiple stops.
• By Motorbike or Bicycle: If you’re comfortable riding, you can rent a motorbike or bicycle. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but be aware of traffic rules and conditions.
• By Boat: Some hotels and tour companies offer boat transfers directly to Halong Bay. This can be a scenic and enjoyable way to travel, but availability and cost will vary.

Tuan Chau (~30 km to Halong Bay)

Tuan Chau is an island located in the southwest of Halong Bay and is connected by both land and sea to Halong City. 

The island spans an area of about 220 hectares (2.2 square kilometers) and is characterized by multiple sloping hills. It’s a popular destination for tourists due to its natural beauty and range of activities.

Tuan Chau Island is actually the main gateway to Halong Bay. The majority of cruises and tours to Halong Bay depart from Tuan Chau Marina.

So, if you’re already on Tuan Chau Island, you’re essentially already at Halong Bay. Just head to the marina and board your cruise or tour boat.

Bai Chay (~18 km to Halong Bay)

Bai Chay is a coastal town in Halong Bay, known for its stunning beach and vibrant nightlife. It has over 300 accommodation facilities and more than 300 boats visiting the bay. The Bai Chay Bridge connects Bai Chay and Hon Gai area. 

The distance from Hanoi to Bai Chay is about 150km, making it a convenient destination for travelers from the capital.

Here’s how you can get to Halong Bay from Bai Chay:

• By Taxi or Grab: It’s a short distance from Bai Chay to Tuan Chau Marina (around 10 km). You can easily take a taxi or Grab car. The journey should take around 20 minutes depending on traffic.
• By Bus: There are local buses that run from Bai Chay to Tuan Chau. The bus number 14 runs this route. It’s a cheaper option, but it will take a bit longer.
• By Bike or Motorbike Rental: If you’re comfortable on two wheels, you could rent a bike or motorbike. It gives you the freedom to move around at your own pace.

Hon Gai (~17 km to Halong Bay)

Hon Gai, also known as Hong Gai, is located on the other side of Cua Luc, across the Bai Chay Bridge. 

Unlike Tuan Chau or Bai Chay, which are major tourist centers, Hon Gai has a rich history of formation and development of Halong City. It’s a tourist area that offers a different perspective of Halong Bay.

Hon Gai is the local area of Halong City and it’s located quite close to Bai Chay (about 5 km). You can use the same methods as above to get from Hon Gai to Halong Bay. The Bai Chay Bridge connects Hon Gai and Bai Chay, and it’s a short journey across.

Taxi: Quick and Convenient

Looking for a faster option? A taxi might be your best bet. Here’s what you need to know:

• Taxis are readily available at Hanoi Airport.
• The fare to Halong Bay starts at VND 1,300,000 (USD 55).
• Duration: 2-2.5 hours

While taxis offer a quicker and more comfortable journey, be wary of drivers who might try to overcharge. Always insist on using the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

A better option is to book online for a taxi to take you to Ha Long city center.

Private Car: Personalized and Comfortable

If you value privacy and convenience, a private car is an excellent option. The journey takes around 2.5 hours via the New Highway, and the cost starts from 89 USD for a one-way trip in a 4-seater car. 

This option allows you to enjoy a flexible schedule and the comfort of a private vehicle.

Seaplane: Fast and Scenic

For a unique and speedy journey, consider taking a seaplane. Hai Au Aviation offers a 45-minute flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay, providing stunning aerial views of the landscape. 

However, this option is the most expensive, with prices ranging from 175 USD to 385 USD depending on the season and time of day.

Transportation from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi Airport

Private Vehicle, Taxi and Limousine

Comfort and Privacy Advantages: Imagine this – you’re in a car, AC on, playing your favorite tunes, and no strangers around. Just you and the open road. Sounds dreamy, right? That’s the beauty of a private vehicle. It’s just you, your pals, and the journey.

• Route Options: So, you’ve got two main choices here:
  • Old Highway: Rice paddies, local markets, and the real Vietnam. It’s a bit longer, but oh, the views!
  • New Expressway: Need speed? This is your go-to. Faster, smoother, and gets you to the airport in less than 3 hours.
• When It’s Worth the Splurge: If you’re traveling with a big group or heaps of luggage, taxis or limos might just be your best bet. Plus, door-to-door service? Yes, please!
• Safety Tips and Trusted Companies: Always go with reputable companies. And remember, if the meter’s not on, speak up! Safety first, always.
• Estimated Fare Range: It’s a bit of a range, but think $50-$100, depending on the ride and traffic. And always have some cash on hand, just in case.

Bus Services

• Luxury Buses: Companies like Anbasco Noibai Services and Grouptour offer buses equipped with AC, Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and even snacks. Perfect for those who want to travel in style without breaking the bank.
• Local Buses: For the adventurers out there, local buses give you a raw, unfiltered taste of Vietnam. They might lack some comforts, but the local interactions and sights make up for it. Just be prepared for a no-frills journey!

Pickup and Drop-off Points:

Most buses start from Tuan Chau Harbor or Bai Chay Bus Station. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure your seat and stow away your luggage.

Booking and Schedules:

• Where to Book: You can book tickets at local travel agencies in Ha Long Bay, at the bus stations, or even online on platforms like Bookaway or 12Go Asia.
• Schedules: Buses run from early morning (around 6 am) to late evening (up to 7 pm). However, schedules can vary, so always double-check a day before your journey.

Pricing:

• Expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $25, depending on the type of bus and amenities offered.

Pro Tip: Always keep some Vietnamese Dong (VND) handy. While many buses accept online payments or USD, local buses often prefer cash in VND.

Bus Schedule from Halong Bay to Hanoi/ Hanoi Airport

Halong Bay Day Tours

Wrapping Up Your Journey: Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

So, there you have it! We’ve explored various ways to get from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay – from the budget-friendly bus and ferry combo, the quick and convenient taxi, the luxurious limousine, to the adventurous private car option. 

Each method has its pros and cons, so choose what suits your travel style and budget the best. Remember, the journey is part of the adventure, so make the most of it!

Frequently Asked Questions