How to get to Ninh Binh: Your compact guide on the 5 best options to choose.

Planning a trip to "Ha Long Bay on land"? Ninh Binh is a must-see destination located just 90-100 km south of Hanoi, making for an easy 1.5 to 2.5-hour trip. This proximity makes it an easy excursion, but choosing the right transport is key to starting your adventure smoothly. From scenic train rides to private luxury vans, this guide details the five best ways to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.

The Scenic Route: Traveling by Vietnam Railways

The train is a classic Vietnamese travel experience, offering a safe and relaxing journey through the countryside. The main North-South railway line runs through Ninh Binh, making it easily accessible from major hubs.

The journey from Hanoi, for example, departs from Ga Hà Nội and arrives at Ninh Binh station in about 2-2.5 hours. This method is highly affordable, with soft seats from Hanoi costing between 100,000 - 200,000 VND ($4 - $8). The main advantage is comfort and scenic views, but the primary disadvantage is that the station is in Ninh Binh city, requiring a 10-15 minute taxi ride to the main attractions in Tam Coc or Trang An.

The Budget-Friendly Option: Taking a local bus

For travelers on a strict budget, the local bus is the most economical way to reach Ninh Binh, with tickets often as low as 80,000 - 120,000 VND ($3 - $5) from nearby cities. Buses connect Ninh Binh to many parts of the country, with frequent departures from Hanoi's southern stations (like Giap Bat and Nuoc Ngam). However, this option comes with drawbacks: bus stations can be chaotic, buses may be less comfortable, and the journey can be slower due to multiple stops.

The Comfort Class: Booking a limousine van

The limousine van has become the most popular and recommended option for tourists seeking a balance of comfort and price. These luxury vans, often equipped with Wi-Fi and plush, reclining seats, operate on a direct shuttle-style service on high-traffic routes. This service is most developed in Hanoi, where companies offer door-to-door pickup from the Old Quarter and drop-off directly at your hotel in Tam Coc or Trang An, all for a reasonable 250,000 - 350,000 VND ($10 - $14).

The Private Transfer: Hiring a taxi or private car

For those prioritizing privacy and a flexible schedule, hiring a private car or taxi is the most direct door-to-door option from any starting point. You can pre-arrange a driver for a fixed price, which is often more reliable than using a meter taxi for a long-distance trip. This is the most expensive method; as a benchmark, a one-way trip from Hanoi costs between 1,200,000 to 1,600,000 VND ($48 - $64). It is ideal for families or small groups who want to leave at a specific time and have their luggage handled seamlessly.

The Adventurous Ride: Renting a motorcycle or car

For the truly adventurous, riding a motorcycle to Ninh Binh offers the ultimate freedom, but it is only recommended for experienced riders with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). The primary disadvantage is safety, as Vietnam's highways can be dangerous, and you are exposed to weather and pollution. A more comfortable alternative is hiring a private car with a driver for the day, which combines the freedom of a private vehicle with the safety of a local expert, though this is a tour package rather than a simple transfer.

At a Glance: Comparing Your Travel Options

Here is a simple comparison to help you decide which option is best for your trip. The prices and times are based on the most common route: traveling from Hanoi (approx. 100km).

(On mobile, you may need to scroll horizontally to see the full chart.)

Transport	Avg. Price (VND)	Time	Advantage	Disadvantage
Train	100k - 200k	2 - 2.5 hrs	Scenic, comfortable, no traffic, safe.	Station is 7km from tourist spots.
Local Bus	80k - 120k	2 - 2.5 hrs	Cheapest option available.	Crowded, chaotic stations, less comfort.
Limousine	250k - 350k	1.5 - 2 hrs	Very comfortable, fast, hotel pickup/dropoff.	More expensive than public transport.
Taxi/Private Car	1.2M - 1.6M	1.5 - 2 hrs	Private, flexible schedule, direct.	Most expensive option.
Motorcycle	150k - 300k	2.5 - 3.5 hrs	Total freedom, adventurous.	Dangerous, requires IDP, weather-dependent.

Choosing how to get to Ninh Binh depends entirely on your budget, schedule, and travel style. Whether you prefer the scenic, rustic charm of the train or the modern convenience of a limousine van, the destination is more than worth the short journey. Plan your transport in advance, and you'll be set to enjoy the stunning landscapes of this "Ha Long Bay on land."