{"id":7057,"date":"2026-06-02T17:52:55","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T10:52:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/?p=7057"},"modified":"2026-06-02T17:52:55","modified_gmt":"2026-06-02T10:52:55","slug":"ninh-binh-to-halong-bay","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/","title":{"rendered":"Ninh Binh to Halong Bay: How to Get There in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #003458;color:#003458\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #003458;color:#003458\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#How_Far_Is_Ninh_Binh_from_Halong_Bay\" >How Far Is Ninh Binh from Halong Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Transport_Options_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\" >Transport Options from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Limousine_Bus_Most_Popular_Option\" >Limousine Bus (Most Popular Option)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Private_Car_Transfer\" >Private Car Transfer<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Public_Bus_or_Train_via_Hanoi\" >Public Bus or Train via Hanoi<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Planning_Your_Ninh_Binh_and_Halong_Bay_Itinerary_Together\" >Planning Your Ninh Binh and Halong Bay Itinerary Together<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Experience_Both_Destinations_on_One_Journey_The_Au_Co_3-Day_Tour\" >Experience Both Destinations on One Journey: The Au Co 3-Day Tour<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#How_long_does_it_take_to_get_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\" >How long does it take to get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Is_there_a_direct_train_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\" >Is there a direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#How_much_does_it_cost_to_travel_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\" >How much does it cost to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#How_do_I_get_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Lan_Ha_Bay\" >How do I get from Ninh Binh to Lan Ha Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Can_I_book_a_private_transfer_that_connects_directly_to_my_cruise_embarkation\" >Can I book a private transfer that connects directly to my cruise embarkation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#What_is_the_best_time_to_depart_Ninh_Binh_for_Halong_Bay\" >What is the best time to depart Ninh Binh for Halong Bay?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/ninh-binh-to-halong-bay\/#Does_booking_a_Halong_Bay_cruise_include_a_Ninh_Binh_tour\" >Does booking a Halong Bay cruise include a Ninh Binh tour?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<div id=\"bsf_rt_marker\"><\/div><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ninh Binh and Halong Bay are two of northern Vietnam&#8217;s most celebrated destinations, and most travelers want to see both. The limestone karsts rising above the rice paddies of Tam Coc are a natural prelude to the towering formations that emerge from the water further north. The two places share a geological kinship, and pairing them on the same trip makes excellent sense.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide covers every realistic way to make that trip, helps you choose the right option for your travel style, and introduces a seamless itinerary that lets you explore both destinations without arranging a single separate transfer.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Far_Is_Ninh_Binh_from_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>How Far Is Ninh Binh from Halong Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The road distance from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is roughly 200 km (124 miles). By limousine bus or private car, you can expect to arrive in approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic near Hanoi and road conditions along the Quang Ninh expressway.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travelers who choose to route through Hanoi by public bus or train should allow 5 to 6 hours in total, as the journey requires at least one connection. There is no direct train service between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay as of 2026. Ha Long train station is no longer in operation, which makes road travel the practical standard for this route.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" style=\"border: 0;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m28!1m12!1m3!1d588141.9730178752!2d106.23641882211876!3d20.619286165616103!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!4m13!3e0!4m5!1s0x313679f0d9f25fd3%3A0x2df5442da5a00929!2sHoa%20Lu%2C%20Ninh%20Binh%2C%20Vietnam!3m2!1d20.267606699999998!2d105.9582372!4m5!1s0x314a5796518cee87%3A0x55c6b0bcc85478db!2sH%E1%BA%A1%20Long%20Bay%2C%20Vietnam!3m2!1d20.910051199999998!2d107.1839024!5e1!3m2!1sen!2s!4v1780397444549!5m2!1sen!2s\" width=\"900\" height=\"450\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The table below summarizes the main options at a glance.<\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #c8dce8; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #003458; color: #ffffff;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold;\">Transport Mode<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold;\">Approx. Travel Time<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 14px 16px; font-weight: bold;\">Approx. Cost (per person)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #f2f9fc;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">Limousine bus (direct)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">3\u20133.5 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">350,000\u2013400,000 VND (~$14\u201316 USD)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">Private car (4-seater, whole vehicle)<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">3\u20133.5 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">$60\u201390 USD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"background-color: #f2f9fc;\">\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">Public bus via Hanoi<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">5\u20136 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">~$5\u201310 USD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">Train to Hanoi + onward bus<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">5\u20136 hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #c8dce8; padding: 13px 16px; color: #333333;\">~$7\u201315 USD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All prices and travel details are for reference only and may be subject to change. Please confirm with your operator before booking.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Transport_Options_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>Transport Options from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Four options cover the route reliably. The right choice depends on your group size, budget, and whether you have a cruise embarkation time to meet.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Limousine_Bus_Most_Popular_Option\"><\/span><b>Limousine Bus (Most Popular Option)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The limousine bus is the most practical choice for solo travelers and couples. Operators pick you up directly from your hotel in Ninh Binh and drop you off at the cruise port or Bai Chay area in Halong City, without requiring you to navigate public transport connections.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seats are reclining and air-conditioned. Travel time is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. As of 2026, a one-way ticket costs approximately 350,000 to 400,000 VND per person (~$14\u201316 USD). Schedules typically run in the morning to align with afternoon cruise embarkation, so book at least 24 to 48 hours in advance through your accommodation or a registered local operator.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This option works best for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Solo and couple travelers without oversized luggage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travelers on a budget who still want door-to-door comfort<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Those with a flexible cruise boarding window (afternoon check-in)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3883 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Alisa-Cruise-Limousine-Shuttle-Bus.jpg\" alt=\"Bhaya-Cruise-Limousine-Shuttle-Bus\" width=\"810\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Alisa-Cruise-Limousine-Shuttle-Bus.jpg 810w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Alisa-Cruise-Limousine-Shuttle-Bus-300x211.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Alisa-Cruise-Limousine-Shuttle-Bus-768x540.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Private_Car_Transfer\"><\/span><b>Private Car Transfer<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A private car is the right choice when reliability matters most. If your cruise has a fixed embarkation time, a private vehicle lets you set the departure to match it, without waiting at a shared pick-up point or adjusting to a fixed schedule.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For a standard 4-seater car, expect to pay roughly $60 to $90 USD for the whole vehicle. A 7-seater is slightly higher. For groups of three or more, the per-person cost becomes competitive with a limousine bus seat.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arrange your private transfer through your cruise operator or a licensed travel agency. Many operators can coordinate pick-up from your Ninh Binh hotel on the morning of your departure. Ask your cruise operator directly about transfer packages when you book your cabin.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This option works best for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Families and groups of three or more<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travelers with large luggage or equipment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anyone with a strict cruise check-in deadline<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Honeymooners and anniversary travelers who prefer door-to-door privacy<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-2476 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/private-car.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"758\" height=\"532\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/private-car.jpg 758w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/private-car-300x211.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 758px) 100vw, 758px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Public_Bus_or_Train_via_Hanoi\"><\/span><b>Public Bus or Train via Hanoi<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Budget travelers with time to spare can make the journey via Hanoi at a lower cost, though the route requires careful coordination.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Ninh Binh, take a public bus or train to Hanoi (approximately 2 hours). From Hanoi, catch a Halong-bound bus from My Dinh Bus Station or Gia Lam Bus Station to Bai Chay Bus Station in Halong City. Total journey time runs 5 to 6 hours under normal conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This route is not recommended for travelers with a cruise embarkation deadline. A delay at any connection point can mean missing your boarding window.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Steps for this route:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take the public bus or train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi (depart early morning)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer by taxi or city bus to My Dinh or Gia Lam station<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Board a Halong-bound bus to Bai Chay (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a taxi from Bai Chay to your cruise pier<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3183 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/local-bus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"421\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/local-bus.jpg 600w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/local-bus-300x211.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Planning_Your_Ninh_Binh_and_Halong_Bay_Itinerary_Together\"><\/span><b>Planning Your Ninh Binh and Halong Bay Itinerary Together<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most travelers allocate one to two days in Ninh Binh before continuing to Halong Bay. One full day covers the Trang An landscape complex and Bich Dong Pagoda comfortably. Two days allow you to add Cuc Phuong National Park or a bicycle ride through Tam Coc.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A morning departure from Ninh Binh between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. gives you the best chance of reaching the pier by midday. Most overnight and multi-day cruises begin boarding in the early afternoon, typically between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Departing after 10:00 a.m. adds meaningful risk during peak season, when traffic between Hanoi and Quang Ninh can slow noticeably.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A practical note on luggage: if you plan to spend two nights aboard a cruise, consider leaving heavier bags at your Ninh Binh accommodation. A compact bag for the cruise makes boarding and onboard living considerably more comfortable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The classic northern Vietnam loop runs Hanoi to Ninh Binh to Halong Bay, before returning to Hanoi. If you are weighing one destination against the other, the guide<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/halong-bay-or-ninh-binh\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Halong Bay or Ninh Binh: Which Should You Visit in 2026?<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers a side-by-side comparison based on travel style, season, and time available.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Experience_Both_Destinations_on_One_Journey_The_Au_Co_3-Day_Tour\"><\/span><b>Experience Both Destinations on One Journey: The Au Co 3-Day Tour<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For travelers who want to see Ninh Binh and Halong Bay without arranging separate transfers, The Au Co&#8217;s 3-day signature tour connects both destinations in a single booking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The tour, &#8220;Highlights of Halong Bay \u2013 Lan Ha Bay and Ninh Binh,&#8221; brings together three of northern Vietnam&#8217;s most celebrated landscapes over three days and two nights. Guests sail across Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay aboard The Au Co, exploring limestone caves, paddling through hidden lagoons, and cycling through Viet Hai village on Cat Ba Island.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The itinerary also includes a dedicated visit to Ninh Binh, where the river valleys and ancient citadel of Hoa Lu provide a quieter contrast to the open-water days on the bay.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfers between destinations are included in the package, so there is no separate bus to book, no schedule to align, and no time lost navigating connections between two distinct legs of your trip.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For couples planning a combined northern Vietnam journey, or for any traveler with a limited holiday window, this format makes both destinations genuinely achievable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Full details, including the day-by-day programme and cabin options, are available on<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/halong-bay-cruises\/3-day-2-night-tour\/halong-bay-ninh-binh-tour-unveil-the-beauty-of-northern-vietnam-in-3-days\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Au Co 3-Day Ninh Binh and Halong Bay Tour page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-6776 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"The Au Co Cruise\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1704\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/The-Au-Co-cruise-in-Halong-Bay-2048x1363.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The journey from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay is well-served, practical, and manageable for any travel style. A limousine bus gets most independent travelers there within three to four hours at modest cost. A private car gives families and groups the schedule control that cruise travel requires. And for those who would rather spend their time experiencing northern Vietnam than organizing separate transfer legs, a combined tour removes the question entirely.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning your northern Vietnam journey? Whether you want a quiet wellness retreat at sea or a cultural voyage across Halong and Lan Ha Bays, explore Bhaya&#8217;s boutique cruise collection to find the itinerary that fits the pace you have in mind.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_it_take_to_get_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>How long does it take to get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By limousine bus or private car, the journey takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. The route via Hanoi by public bus or train requires at least one connection and typically takes 5 to 6 hours in total.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_there_a_direct_train_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>Is there a direct train from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No. As of 2026, there is no direct train service between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Ha Long train station is no longer operational. Travelers who prefer rail must take the Ninh Binh to Hanoi leg first, then continue to Halong Bay by bus or private car, which adds roughly two to three hours to the total journey time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_it_cost_to_travel_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>How much does it cost to travel from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A limousine bus seat costs approximately 350,000 to 400,000 VND per person (~$14\u201316 USD) one-way as of 2026. A private car ranges from roughly $60 to $90 USD for the whole vehicle, depending on size. Budget bus options via Hanoi are lower in cost but require at least one connection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_get_from_Ninh_Binh_to_Lan_Ha_Bay\"><\/span><b>How do I get from Ninh Binh to Lan Ha Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most direct route is by limousine bus or private car to Halong Bay, then by cruise vessel to Lan Ha Bay. Some cruise operators include transport as part of their packages. The Au Co&#8217;s 3-day Ninh Binh and Halong Bay tour covers both destinations in a single connected itinerary, which removes the need for a separate transfer arrangement.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_book_a_private_transfer_that_connects_directly_to_my_cruise_embarkation\"><\/span><b>Can I book a private transfer that connects directly to my cruise embarkation?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Many cruise operators and travel agencies offer private transfer packages that coordinate hotel pick-up in Ninh Binh with your cruise check-in time. This is the recommended option for travelers with a fixed boarding window. Contact your cruise operator directly when booking to ask about transfer coordination, since timing requirements vary by vessel and pier location.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_best_time_to_depart_Ninh_Binh_for_Halong_Bay\"><\/span><b>What is the best time to depart Ninh Binh for Halong Bay?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A departure between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. is generally recommended. Most overnight and multi-day cruises begin boarding between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., and a morning departure gives you a comfortable arrival buffer. During peak season (April to June and September to November), traffic between Hanoi and Quang Ninh can extend journey times, so earlier departures carry less risk.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_booking_a_Halong_Bay_cruise_include_a_Ninh_Binh_tour\"><\/span><b>Does booking a Halong Bay cruise include a Ninh Binh tour?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most standard Halong Bay cruises do not include a Ninh Binh visit by default. The two destinations require separate itineraries. One exception is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/halong-bay-cruises\/3-day-2-night-tour\/halong-bay-ninh-binh-tour-unveil-the-beauty-of-northern-vietnam-in-3-days\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Au Co&#8217;s 3-day combined package<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which covers Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Ninh Binh in a single booking. For a standalone Ninh Binh day tour, join-in group options typically cost $30\u201355 USD per person, while private tours range from approximately $100\u2013180 USD per group, depending on group size. All prices are approximate and subject to change.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ninh Binh and Halong Bay are two of northern Vietnam&#8217;s most celebrated destinations, and most travelers want to see both. The limestone karsts rising above the rice paddies of Tam Coc are a natural prelude to the towering formations that emerge from the water further north. The two places share a geological kinship, and pairing [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":6232,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7057","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-guide"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7057","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7057"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7057\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7059,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7057\/revisions\/7059"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6232"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7057"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7057"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bhayacruises.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7057"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}