The Comprehensive Guide on How to Take a Bus to Ha Long Bay

Transportation to Halong

Find out the quickest and most convenient way to get to Halong Bay if you want to see the magnificent natural marvel that is Halong Bay. The amount of time it takes to get somewhere depends on the route and the vehicle. Many tourists choose and trust the following cars and the bus to Ha Long Bay as their preferred modes of transportation

Hanoi To Halong Bay Map

Millions of local and international tourists visit Halong Bay each year because it is one of the most well-known and stunning bays in the world. There are several different modes of transportation you can use to get from Hanoi to Halong City. Halong Bay is situated 60 kilometers from Hai Phong City and 50 kilometers northwest of Hanoi. The Mong Cai border gate, which is 184 kilometers away and links to the South China Sea, is located to the east.

Halong City is one of the lands in Vietnam with the longest history of formation, with a diverse and complex topography that includes hills, valleys, coastal areas, and islands. It has created an appealing destination with valuable attractions by combining geological, cultural, and historical values.

Hanoi To Halong Bay Map

Halong Bay is a breathtaking destination that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty. Embarking on a cruise through the bay is the fastest way to explore this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. Within just 45 minutes, travelers can reach the bay from the nearby city of Hanoi. 

The route from Hanoi to Halong Bay will differ depending on the mode of transportation you choose.

• If you fly from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay, the distance is 160 kilometers, and you will pass through Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) - Bac Ninh - Ha Long.
• If you travel by road, you can take the 155-kilometer Hanoi - Bac Ninh - Ha Long route, the 170-kilometer Hanoi - Hai Duong - Hai Phong - Ha Long route, or the 160-kilometer Hanoi - Hai Duong - Hai Phong - Ha Long route.
• You can also take the train from Hanoi to Halong Bay, which takes about 7 hours.

Types of Shuttle Bus Hanoi to Halong Bay

At the moment, the traffic routes to Halong Bay have formed a fairly complete network and have been largely upgraded; the project of renovating and upgrading National Highways 18, 10, and 183 has been completed. The inner city road system, including the sidewalk and drainage system, has also been upgraded and expanded. The density of major roads is 5.6 kilometers per square kilometer. The density of main roads reaches 5.6 km/Km2. In addition to service vehicles, now there is a system.

Standard shuttle bus to Halong Bay

This prevalent kind comes in a variety of sizes ranging from a 16-seat minivan to a 45-seat bus. They all meet the fundamental necessities of tourist transportation, such as air conditioning, bottled water, hygiene, and so on, while also providing a reasonably safe and courteous driving service.

• 16-seat minivan: Minibus Toyota Hiace, Hyundai Solati, and Mercedes Sprinter are commonly used for this type of bus.
• Vehicles seating 29 to 30 passengers: For larger groups of passengers, Hyundai County and Isuzu Samco are frequently used.
• Prominent brands for 35-seat buses include Hyundai Aero Town, Thaco Town, Truong Hai, and Isuzu.
• 45-seat car: Hyundai Universe, Hyundai Aero Hi-class, or Hyundai Space automobiles are sometimes used to carry big groups of visit Halong Bay, up to 45 persons. This type of bus is less popular than minibusses since huge vehicles find it difficult to transfer in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

Standard shuttle bus to Halong Bay

Read More: Cruise from Hanoi to Halong Bay - A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience You Can't-Miss

Shuttle buses of the cruise company

In addition to transportation firms, several cruises also provide shuttle services in order to provide the finest experience possible for their passengers. It is much simpler and less time-consuming to go back and forth because there is a diverse selection of cruises from which to pick, and all of them include transfer services; this eliminates the need to search for a reputable bus company.

Door-to-door service will be provided for you so that you do not need to worry about the pick-up or drop-off location during your transfer from the hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter to the cruise pier.

Paradise Vietnam is one of the shipping lines that provide a variety of Buses for passengers. You will be advised to choose the best bus from the company based on cost, number of passengers, privacy and many other personal factors.

Buses for passengers

Luxury shuttle bus to Halong Bay

The most popular types of luxury buses to Ha Long Bay are limousines (9 seats) and Fuso (19 seats). This is a new style of bus, usually operated by tour companies that promise to provide their passengers with complete premium services from start to finish.

Compared with regular buses, luxury buses offer more advanced experiences such as spacious, comfortable seats, massage systems, chargers, DVDs, lights, water bottles, air conditioning, wi-fi, etc.

Shuttle Bus Hanoi to Halong Bay Bus Schedule & Price 2023

If you are interested in taking one of the buses to Halong Bay, the following piece of information will ensure that your trip goes off without a hitch.

Time Schedule & Ticket Price

Buses leaving Hanoi for Halong City typically begin picking up passengers throughout the Hanoi Old Quarter between the hours of 8:00 and 9:00 am and drop off passengers at 11:30 am at the hotel or cruise pier in Halong Bay trip. 

Those customers who embark on a cruise but live in locations that are quite remote from the old quarter are required to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point at the Hanoi Opera House (No 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi). The timing of bus departures during the day is typically scheduled to occur every half an hour.

The ticket fee for one way per person might range from 5 USD to 10 USD depending on the transportation and cruise companies. It is the most cost-effective option to transfer for the route because it does not include additional expenses for traveling between your lodging and the pick-up/drop-off point.

Price list of luxury shuttle buses

Read More: Unforgettable Moments on a Halong Bay Cruise Luxury

Book the shuttle transfer

Hire the shuttle bus along with your Halong Bay cruise. If you are unsure which unit can provide the right shuttle service, Paradise Vietnam's service for tourists visiting the Halong Bay cruise is an excellent option.

For a more personalized experience, consider reserving a private luxury bus. When booking the bus separately, make sure to coordinate your travel schedule with the designated pick-up and drop-off times and locations. This allows for a tailored and seamless journey. Upgrade to a private vehicle for added comfort and a smooth ride throughout your trip.

Transfer bus to Halong Bay

Read More: When is the best time to cruise Vietnam Halong bay? Find Out Now!

Local Bus (Coach) - The Budget Choice

You can take the coach or local bus to Halong Bay if you want to experience a journey that is both cost-effective and leisurely in terms of time. This is an alternative to taking one of the shuttles that have been described above.

Choose a bus station and a bus provider

Before the ride, you need to be sure that you have confirmed the location of the drop-off place with the transportation company. Keep in mind that the vast majority of buses will pick up passengers in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. If the location of the pick-up is considered to be too far away, an additional fee may be assessed. So, if you intend to ride the bus, it would be in your best interest to pick a hotel that is located within the Hanoi Old Quarter.

In the event that you decide to go on a cruise, there are several large piers in Halong Bay Cruise for you to choose from. They include Tuan Chau Port, Vinashine Harbor, Bai Chay, Gave Pier, and Halong City International Port.

Choose a bus station convenient for you

Read More: Capture Breathtaking Views on a Halong Bay Cruise

Leave the station in Halong Bay.

Conversely, you can take a bus from Halong to Hanoi. Inquire with locals or transit authorities about the times and itineraries of these routes according to your needs. Typically, the bus stations routes of the bus to Halong Bay from Hanoi are round trips. If you want to use another shuttle bus, get guidance from a travel time agency or expert transportation units.

Arrive in Ha Long from Hanoi by taxi

Read More: Halong Bay Day Cruise: A  Journey to Remember

Is the bus option a wise decision?

Taking a coach or bus is a generally safe and inexpensive mode. But, if you have specific needs for interior space and want the use of additional services such as wifi, cold towels, mineral water, etc., buses are not the ideal option.

Public Bus to Halong Bay

Instead, you can select the mode of transportation provided by professional transportation companies or the sorts of shuttles provided by travel firms. Paradise Vietnam is a well-known tourism agency in Halong Bay, currently offering shuttle services such as:

• Shared luxury limousine: Customer comments said premium transportation exceeded expectations. With its attractive décor, comfy seating, and convenient facilities, this option will delight even the pickiest customers. Paradise The Vietnam limousine includes ambient lighting, free WiFi, and mineral water for eight people.
• Private transportation with driver: Toyota Innovas, Ford Transit Luxurious, Mercedes-Benz Vans, and others are available. For a pleasant trip, we recommend 2 - 3 passengers for a 4 - 7 seater car and 8 passengers for a minivan. Book a private car by emailing or calling the salesperson who confirmed your trip.

Tips for a Smooth Bus Journey

To make the most of your bus journey to Halong Bay, here are a few essential tips:

Book Tickets in Advance and Check Schedules

It is highly recommended to book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays. By doing so, you ensure that you secure a seat on the desired bus and your preferred departure time. Additionally, always double-check the bus schedules to avoid any last-minute changes or delays that may occur.

Pack Essentials for a Comfortable Trip

To ensure a comfortable journey, consider packing a few essential items. Bringing a light jacket or shawl, as the bus temperature might feel cooler than expected. This way, you can easily adjust your clothing to maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout the trip. Additionally, carrying a neck pillow or a small blanket can provide added comfort, allowing you to relax and rest during the journey.

Ensure Proper Hydration and Snacks

Stay hydrated throughout the bus journey by carrying a refillable water bottle. Additionally, pack some snacks to keep yourself energized during the trip. However, remember to be mindful of cleanliness and dispose of any waste responsibly.

Keep Necessary Documents and Valuables Secure

Carry your identification documents, such as passports, and keep them in a safe and easily accessible place. It's advisable to use a money belt or a secure bag to store your valuables, ensuring peace of mind throughout the journey. Remember, the key to a successful journey is preparation, comfort, and safety.

Other Transportation Options

While buses are a popular and convenient option for traveling to Halong Bay, it's worth considering other modes of transportation to ensure a well-rounded and personalized experience. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on your preferred mode of transportation:

Private Cars: You can customize your departure time, make stops at scenic viewpoints along the way, and have the freedom to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Private cars provide a more direct and comfortable journey, with the convenience of door-to-door transportation. However, it's important to consider the cost implications, especially if you're traveling solo or in a small group.

Boats and Cruises: Cruises typically include accommodations, meals, and guided tours, providing a comprehensive experience. You can leisurely sail through the emerald waters, visit remote islands, explore hidden caves, and indulge in various activities such as kayaking or swimming. 

Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of Halong Bay. For additional information, please contact Paradise Vietnam through email or phone. View the price list and alternative modes of transportation available here: https://www.paradisevietnam.com/en/transportation