How to get from Ninh Binh to Hanoi

Heading from Ninh Binh back to Hanoi? This guide walks you through every realistic option—from local trains and comfy limousine vans to private transfers and even motorbikes—so you can choose the route that fits your time, budget, and travel style.

At A Glance (Ninh Binh to Hanoi)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚆 Train (Ninh Binh → Hanoi)	~2–2.5h station-to-station	Reliable schedules, budget, relaxed travel
🏷️ Cost: Roughly 100,000–250,000 VND one-way in soft seat or sleeper, depending on train and class. Compare times and prices on 12Go (Ninh Binh → Hanoi trains) or check official fares on Vietnam Railways online.
🚌 Limousine / Tourist Bus (Hotel Pickup → Hanoi)	~2–2.5h door-to-door (traffic-dependent)	Most travelers, hotel pickup/drop-off, comfort
🏷️ Cost: About 150,000–300,000 VND per person. Check real-time schedules and reviews on 12Go bus & limousine listings, shared limos on Klook, or tourist buses such as the Ninh Binh → Hanoi bus transfer.
🚕 Private Transfer / Taxi	~1.5–2h door-to-door	Families, groups, lots of luggage, late arrivals
🏷️ Cost: From roughly 750,000–1,600,000 VND per vehicle one-way (25–60 USD), depending on size and season. Compare pre-booked cars on GetTransfer, limousine and private cars on GetYourGuide, or private city transfers between Hanoi and Ninh Binh on Klook. In Vietnam, ride-hailing apps like Grab, Gojek, and Be are handy alternatives for shorter hops at each end.
🏍️ Motorbike / Self-Drive	~2–3h riding time	Experienced riders, scenic & flexible routes
🏷️ Cost: Scooter or motorbike rental from about 150,000–350,000 VND per day plus fuel. Compare scooter and motorbike rentals in Hanoi on BikesBooking or similar local rental shops.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most convenient: If you want to minimise hassle and don’t mind stations, choose the direct train between Ninh Binh and Hanoi. It’s predictable, cheap, and avoids traffic.
• Cheapest / Most economical: Prices are similar for trains and limousine vans, but promo deals on trains can be the absolute lowest. If you value hotel pickup/drop-off more than a tiny saving, go for a limousine van.
• Simplest with luggage or kids: A private transfer or taxi is worth the extra cost if you have bulky bags, are travelling as a family, or need a guaranteed late-evening ride straight to your Hanoi hotel or Noi Bai Airport.
• Most scenic / Most flexible: Confident riders who like to stop for viewpoints, roadside cafés, or random temples will love the motorbike / self-drive option. Only choose this if you’re fully comfortable with Vietnamese traffic.
• Combining with flights: If you’re flying into or out of Hanoi on the same day, consider a private transfer or limousine that can drop you either in the Old Quarter or directly at Noi Bai Airport, and book your flights on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book trains a few days in advance in high season: For weekends and public holidays, reserve seats early through the official Vietnam Railways online system or trusted agencies. Aggregators like 12Go and rail products on Klook make booking in English easier.
• Limousine vans run frequently but still fill up: During weekends and peak months, reserve your Ninh Binh → Hanoi seat the day before. You can compare departure times and companies on 12Go route pages, shared limousines on Klook, or transfers on GetYourGuide.
• Use ride-hailing apps for station and hotel hops: In both Hanoi and Ninh Binh, apps such as Grab, Gojek, and Be are widely used. They’re ideal for short rides to the station, bus office, or your hotel at transparent, metered-style prices.
• Store luggage if you have awkward gaps: If you’re checking out in Ninh Binh late morning but taking an evening train or bus to Hanoi (or vice versa), you can use staffed storage points in the capital via Radical Storage in Hanoi or their dedicated Hanoi Central Station location.
• Reserve accommodation around your schedule: If you arrive in Hanoi late at night or leave early, it’s convenient to stay near the Old Quarter or close to Hanoi Railway Station. You can filter hotels and homestays by check-in times and location on Booking.com or look for stays in Tam Coc / Trang An on Booking.com Ninh Binh.
• Check weather and visibility: Heavy rain or fog can slow down buses and motorbikes. If conditions are bad, trains and private cars are generally safer and more predictable.
• Respect local rules for motorbikes: Vietnam officially requires an appropriate driving licence and, for many travellers, an International Driving Permit. Travel insurance often excludes motorbike accidents if you don’t meet licence rules—consider public transport instead if you’re unsure.

🚆 Option #1 — Direct Train (Classic, Relaxed & Budget-Friendly)

Budget-friendly Scenic countryside Fixed timetable

• Overview: Trains between Ninh Binh and Hanoi run several times a day, typically taking around 2–2.5 hours. You’ll travel in air-conditioned carriages with assigned seats or bunks, passing rice fields and karst landscapes on the way.
• How to book (with price): Soft seats and hard/soft sleepers usually range from about 100,000–250,000 VND depending on train type and class. You can check real-time schedules and book online via the official Vietnam Railways e-ticket site or use English-friendly platforms like 12Go and train products on Klook.
• Pros: Comfortable seats, fixed departure and arrival times, toilets onboard, and less affected by highway traffic. Easy to read or nap as you go.
• Cons: You need to get yourself to and from the stations; popular departures may sell out during holidays; limited departures at night.
• Official info: For official timetables, ticket rules, and railway news, see Vietnam Railways (VNR) and the online booking portal at dsvn.vn.

Step-by-step: Train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi

1. Choose your departure time: Check Ninh Binh → Hanoi schedules on the Vietnam Railways site or on aggregators like 12Go. Note the train number (for example, SE or NA lines) and departure time that fits your plans.
2. Book your seat: Reserve online via dsvn.vn, through travel agents, or on platforms like 12Go. Keep a digital copy or printout of your ticket and your passport handy for station checks.
3. Get to Ninh Binh Railway Station: Most travellers stay in Tam Coc or Trang An, about 6–8 km from the station. Use a taxi or a Grab car/bike to reach the station 30–40 minutes before departure so you have time to find your platform.
4. Board and find your seat: Check the coach number on your ticket, then match it with the numbers on the carriages. Stow big bags on the luggage racks or under seats; keep valuables on you.
5. Enjoy the ride: Settle in with a book or podcast while the train passes rice paddies and villages. Simple snacks and drinks may be available onboard, but it’s wise to bring your own water and light food.
6. Arrive at Hanoi Railway Station: On arrival, follow signs out of the station. Use Grab, Gojek, Be, or a metered taxi to reach the Old Quarter, West Lake, or your hotel. If you’re staying nearby, you can often walk.

Getting to the main embarking points (Ninh Binh & Hanoi Stations)

• Ninh Binh Railway Station: Located just north of the city centre, it’s a short taxi or Grab ride from Tam Coc, Trang An, Hang Mua, or most homestays. Aim to arrive 30 minutes before departure, a bit more during busy periods.
• Hanoi Railway Station: The station sits on Le Duan Street, roughly 10–15 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing app from the Old Quarter, depending on traffic. There are cafés, ATMs, and convenience stores nearby.
• Connecting to Noi Bai Airport: From the station or Old Quarter, you can take the official airport bus, Grab, or a pre-booked transfer to Noi Bai if you’re catching a flight the same day. Private airport rides are easy to pre-arrange on GetYourGuide or via services like Welcome Pickups Hanoi.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Limousine / Tourist Bus (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Hotel pickup Traffic-dependent

• Overview: Limousine vans and tourist buses shuttle travellers between Ninh Binh (often Tam Coc / Trang An) and Hanoi all day long. Most include hotel pickup in Ninh Binh and drop-off around Hanoi Old Quarter, taking about 2–2.5 hours depending on traffic.
• How to book (with price): Expect fares around 150,000–300,000 VND per person, with comfortable seats, air-con, and sometimes Wi‑Fi. You can compare companies and departure times via 12Go limousine listings, shared vans on Klook (Duy Khang Limousine, etc.), or book a branded tourist bus transfer such as the Ninh Binh → Hanoi coach.
• Pros: Door-to-door convenience from homestays in Tam Coc / Trang An; no need to handle your bag on public transport; frequent departures throughout the day.
• Cons: Subject to Hanoi traffic; schedules can slip at rush hour; pick-up windows aren’t always exact; legroom varies by company.
• Official info (terminals): If you’re using provincial buses instead of tourist limos, Hanoi’s official bus stations and interprovincial services are managed by Hanoi Bus Station authorities.

Step-by-step: Limousine / Tourist Bus Ninh Binh → Hanoi

1. Pick your departure window: Decide whether you want a morning, midday, or afternoon ride. Factor in hotel check-out and check-in times so you’re not stranded with luggage.
2. Compare operators and inclusions: On platforms like 12Go, Klook, or GetYourGuide, check whether your chosen service includes hotel pickup in Tam Coc / Trang An, luggage limits, and exact drop-off locations in Hanoi.
3. Reserve your seat: Book and pay online; you’ll receive a voucher with pick-up time window, contact number, and meeting instructions.
4. Be ready for pickup: On the day, be in your lobby 10–15 minutes before the earliest stated time. Vans may collect multiple passengers from different homestays, so be patient if they’re slightly early or late.
5. Ride to Hanoi: Settle into your seat, keep essentials in a small daypack, and enjoy the scenery. Most vans stop once for a restroom/snack break on the highway if needed.
6. Arrive and transfer to your hotel: Many services drop around Hanoi Old Quarter or a central office. From there, it’s a short walk or a quick Grab/Gojek ride to your exact accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Ninh Binh Tourist Areas)

• Tam Coc: Many limousines start or stop in Tam Coc village, where most guesthouses are within walking distance of the main street. Confirm whether your provider offers door-to-door pickup or a central meeting point.
• Trang An / Bai Dinh: Some operators pick up at larger resorts and hotels near Trang An and Bai Dinh; others require you to reach Tam Coc or Ninh Binh city. Ask your hotel or host which companies serve them directly.
• Hanoi drop-off points: Common drop points are in or near the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem area, or at specific bus company offices. Double-check the exact address so you can plan a short walk or a ride-hailing trip to your final hotel.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #3 — Private Transfer / Taxi (Door-to-Door)

Door-to-door Great with luggage Higher cost

• Overview: A private car with driver (or taxi-style transfer) picks you up at your Ninh Binh hotel and drops you exactly where you need to be in Hanoi—Old Quarter, West Lake, or even Noi Bai Airport. Travel time is usually 1.5–2 hours in normal traffic.
• How to book (with price): Expect roughly 750,000–1,600,000 VND per vehicle depending on car type, time of day, and season. You can request quotes and book online via GetTransfer, browse transfer options between Hanoi and Ninh Binh on GetYourGuide, or use private transfer products on Klook.
• Pros: Maximum comfort and privacy; best for groups with luggage or limited mobility; no mid-stops unless you request them; easy to combine with airport pickups and drop-offs.
• Cons: Costs more than shared buses or trains; you’ll want to confirm details (flight times, hotel addresses) carefully; traffic conditions in Hanoi can still slow you down.
• Official tourism help: For general safety and travel advice, you can cross-check guidance from the official Vietnam tourism transport page and the Ninh Binh Department of Tourism.

Step-by-step: Private Car / Taxi Ninh Binh → Hanoi

1. Decide your destination in Hanoi: Are you heading to the Old Quarter, a specific hotel, or Noi Bai Airport? Knowing this helps you choose the right vehicle size and pick-up time.
2. Request a quote and book: On sites like GetTransfer, Klook, or GetYourGuide, enter your exact pick-up and drop-off addresses, date, time, and group size. Compare vehicle options (sedan, minivan, etc.) and total price before confirming.
3. Confirm pick-up details: Make sure your booking shows your homestay or hotel name and a working phone/WhatsApp number. Some drivers message you in advance with their plate number.
4. Meet your driver in Ninh Binh: On the day, be ready in your lobby 10–15 minutes early. The driver may call or message when arriving.
5. Enjoy the ride: Sit back and enjoy the scenery. If you’d like to stop for coffee or a photo, ask the driver in advance—brief breaks are often fine on private transfers.
6. Arrive in Hanoi and settle in: Your driver will drop you at your door. From there you can explore by foot, taxi, or ride-hailing app.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel Pickups & Airport)

• From Tam Coc / Trang An / Ninh Binh city: Most private transfers collect you directly from your hotel or homestay—just ensure the lane is accessible for cars or minivans.
• Hanoi city hotels: If you’re heading to the Old Quarter or central districts, your car can usually drop you right at the entrance, but some narrow alleys may require a short walk.
• Noi Bai Airport connections: Many companies offer combined Ninh Binh → Hanoi → Noi Bai (or reverse) transfers. You can also pair a Ninh Binh → Hanoi ride with a pre-booked airport transfer on Welcome Pickups or GetYourGuide airport rides.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🏍️ Option #4 — Motorbike / Self-Drive (Most Scenic & Flexible)

Adventure Flexible stops Experienced riders only

• Overview: Confident riders can cover the 90–100 km between Ninh Binh and Hanoi by motorbike in about 2–3 hours, depending on the route and stops. You’ll share the road with everything from scooters to trucks, so this option is only for those comfortable in busy Southeast Asian traffic.
• How to book (with price): Daily scooter rentals in Hanoi often start from around 150,000–350,000 VND, depending on model and rental length. You can compare scooter rentals in Hanoi on BikesBooking or rent directly from reputable local shops.
• Pros: Total flexibility; you can stop for photos, roadside cafés, or viewpoints whenever you like; easy to explore villages and side roads near Ninh Binh and Hanoi.
• Cons: Requires a proper licence and solid riding experience; weather and visibility matter a lot; traffic can feel chaotic near Hanoi; higher risk in case of accidents and possible insurance limitations.
• Official guidance: For general transport and safety context, you can review tips from the official Vietnam tourism transport guide.

Step-by-step: Riding Between Ninh Binh and Hanoi

1. Check your documents and insurance: Make sure you have a valid licence (and, if required, an International Driving Permit) and that your travel insurance covers motorbike riding in Vietnam.
2. Choose a reputable rental shop: In Hanoi or Ninh Binh, pick a well-reviewed rental provider, inspect the bike carefully, test brakes and lights, and ensure you receive good-quality helmets.
3. Plan your route: Use offline maps to choose either the faster highway-style route or a combination of quieter national roads. Avoid riding after dark or in heavy rain if possible.
4. Ride with local habits in mind: Expect unpredictable moves from other road users. Keep your speed moderate, use your horn when overtaking, and maintain a safe distance from trucks and buses.
5. Refuel and rest: There are plenty of fuel stations and small eateries along the way—stop regularly to rest, hydrate, and check the bike.
6. Arrive in Hanoi: As you enter the capital, traffic becomes denser. Take your time, follow the flow, and park in designated areas near your accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental Shops & Scenic Areas)

• Hanoi rental hubs: Many motorbike rental shops cluster around the Old Quarter and Tay Ho (West Lake). You can compare scooter rental options online via BikesBooking or book directly with reputable local shops.
• Ninh Binh / Tam Coc rentals: Guesthouses and homestays in Tam Coc and Trang An often rent scooters by the day. Ask about helmets, insurance, and whether the bike is allowed for intercity travel.
• Returning your bike: Some rentals must be returned to the same city, while others allow one-way drop-offs for an extra fee. Clarify this before departing so you don’t end up paying unexpected penalties.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Ninh Binh to Hanoi)

How long does it take to travel from Ninh Binh to Hanoi?
For most travellers, expect about 2–2.5 hours whether you go by train, limousine van, or private car in normal conditions. Motorbikes cover a similar time if you ride steadily and don’t stop too often.

Is it better to take the train or a limousine van?
Trains are smoother and run on fixed schedules, which many people like for predictability. Limousine vans can feel more convenient if you value door-to-door pickup from your homestay in Tam Coc or Trang An. Prices for both are fairly similar; choose based on whether you prefer stations or hotel pickup.

Can I book Ninh Binh → Hanoi tickets on the day?
Outside peak holidays, same-day bookings are usually possible, especially for limousine vans. However, popular trains and buses can sell out. It’s safer to book at least a day ahead during weekends, national holidays, or high season.

Is it safe to ride a motorbike between Ninh Binh and Hanoi?
Many locals and experienced travellers ride this route daily, but it’s only recommended if you’re fully comfortable with Vietnamese traffic and have the correct licence and insurance. If you’re not a confident rider, choose the train, a limousine van, or a private transfer instead.

Which area of Hanoi should I stay in after arriving from Ninh Binh?
Most first-time visitors choose the Old Quarter or nearby Hoan Kiem for easy access to food, sights, and pick-up points for other tours. If you prefer a quieter base, West Lake (Tay Ho) has more space and greenery. You can compare neighbourhoods, filters, and guest reviews on Booking.com before you book.

What should I do with my luggage if I have many hours between check-out and departure?
If your hotel can’t hold your bags, you can store them at staffed locations around Hanoi via services like Radical Storage, including spots close to Hanoi Railway Station and the Old Quarter. This lets you explore cafés, lakes, and museums hands-free.