How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay Hon Gai

How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay (Hon Gai) step-by-step, including bus, limousine, private transfer, public bus and seaplane options, plus how to book and which route to choose for different budgets and travel styles.

At A Glance (Hanoi to Halong Bay Hon Gai)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚐 Limousine Van & Tourist Bus (Hanoi → Hon Gai / Ha Long)	~2.5–3.5 h via expressway (incl. hotel pickup if included)	Most travelers, comfort & value
🏷️ Cost: ~VND 200,000–450,000 per person one-way » compare buses & vans | shared transfers
🚗 Private Car / Taxi (Door-to-door)	~2.5–3 h via expressway	Families, groups, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~US$80–150 per car one-way (1–7 passengers) » sample private transfer | quote custom ride
🚌 Public / Local Bus (Hanoi Stations → Ha Long / Hon Gai)	~3–4 h (incl. station transfers)	Cheapest fares, flexible schedule
🏷️ Cost: ~VND 150,000–250,000 per person one-way » bus timetables
🛩️ Seaplane (Hanoi→Ha Long) + Short Transfer	~45 m flight + ~15–30 m road to Hon Gai	Scenic splurge, tight schedules
🏷️ Cost: from ~US$170–250+ per person one-way (flight only) » see seaplane options | bundled cruises & transfers

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient: Choose Option #2 – Private Transfer / Taxi if you want door-to-door travel from your hotel or from Noi Bai Airport, especially with kids, big luggage, or odd flight times.
• Best balance of price & comfort: Go for Option #1 – Limousine Van & Tourist Bus; hotel pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter, comfy seats and a quick run on the expressway are ideal for most visitors.
• Cheapest / most economical: If you’re on a strict budget and don’t mind getting to the bus station yourself, Option #3 – Public / Local Bus is usually the lowest-cost way to reach Ha Long / Hon Gai.
• Most scenic or special-occasion: If you want aerial views of the limestone karsts and bay and are okay with a high price tag, Option #4 – Seaplane + Transfer is a memorable splurge, especially when combined with an overnight cruise.
• Already booking a cruise or day tour: Many cruises and day trips from Hanoi include shuttle or limousine transfers in the package; compare options on curated platforms like Halong Bay day tours with transfers to see if this is easier than organizing transport separately.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book limousines & buses online in advance: For popular dates (weekends, public holidays, summer), reserve seats 1–3 days ahead via comparison sites such as 12Go, or shared vans on Klook or Trip.com.
• Use ride-hailing apps within cities: In both Hanoi and Ha Long, apps like Grab (car/bike), Gojek and Be are ubiquitous and often cheaper and easier than street taxis; combine them with pre-booked transfers, or use them as an alternative to services like Welcome Pickups and GetTransfer if you prefer on-demand rides.
• Choosing where to stay: If you want to be close to Hon Gai harbor or the local market, pick accommodation on the Hon Gai side of the city; for beaches and most big cruise piers, Bai Chay/Tuan Chau may suit better. You can filter and compare options around both areas on Booking.com (Ha Long Bay region).
• Landing in Hanoi and going straight to Ha Long: If you fly into Noi Bai and head directly to the bay, consider a pre-arranged private transfer (see Option #2) or airport pickup services on GetYourGuide or Klook airport transfers. Avoid tight connections; give yourself buffer time for immigration and traffic.
• Luggage logistics: If you have hours between hotel checkout and your bus/transfer, use left-luggage at your hotel or short-term storage services such as Radical Storage in Hanoi so you can sightsee hands-free before departure.
• Self-driving & motorbike rental: Driving yourself requires confidence in Vietnamese traffic and, ideally, local experience. If you have the right license and insurance, you can rent a scooter or motorbike in Hanoi through services like BikesBooking, but for most visitors, a limousine van or private car is safer and less stressful.
• Booking flights and car rentals to start from Hanoi: If you are still arranging your inbound flight to Hanoi or considering renting a car from the city, you can search and compare on Booking.com Flights and check car rental options via Booking.com’s car rental portal.

🚐 Option #1 — Direct Limousine Van & Tourist Bus (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Comfortable Hotel pickup available

• Overview: Shared limousine vans (9–12 seats) and tourist buses run frequently between Hanoi and Ha Long via the modern expressway, taking around 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic and pickup/drop-off patterns. Many services offer hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter and drop-off near Bai Chay or, on some routes, Hon Gai.
• How to book (with price): Expect to pay roughly VND 200,000–450,000 per person one-way, depending on comfort level and inclusions. You can compare specific operators and departure times on 12Go (Hanoi → Halong Bay Hon Gai route), or look for luxury limousines and minivans on Klook’s Hanoi–Ha Long limousine listings and shared transfers on Trip.com.
• Pros: Good value, frequent departures, comfy reclining seats, onboard Wi‑Fi/USB on many vans, hotel pickup available, no need to navigate bus stations.
• Cons: Pickup rounds in Hanoi can add time; schedules may change slightly on short notice; some services only drop at Bai Chay or Tuan Chau, requiring a short taxi ride to Hon Gai.

Step-by-step: Using a Direct Limousine Van or Tourist Bus

1. Decide whether you prefer hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter or starting from a central office (often in Hoan Kiem or Hai Ba Trung districts).
2. Browse schedules and reviews on a booking platform such as 12Go, Klook shared transfers, or Trip.com limousine transfers, then pick a departure that fits your cruise check‑in or hotel check‑in time in Ha Long.
3. Book online, providing your hotel address if pickup is included. Check your voucher for the exact pickup window (often a 20–40 minute time range) and any WhatsApp/Zalo contact for the operator.
4. On travel day, be ready in your lobby at least 10–15 minutes before the start of the pickup window. If pickup is from an office, use Grab, Gojek, Be or a metered taxi to reach the office 20–30 minutes before departure.
5. Ride the expressway; most trips include one restroom/snack stop halfway. Keep valuables with you in a small daypack.
6. Arrive in Bai Chay, Tuan Chau, or (on some services) Hon Gai. If you’re dropped on the Bai Chay side but staying in Hon Gai, catch a short taxi or Grab car across the bridge (usually 10–20 minutes).
7. For your return, either book a round-trip ticket at the same time or reserve separately once you’ve confirmed your plans in Ha Long.

Getting to the main embarking points

• Hanoi Old Quarter hotels: If hotel pickup is included, simply wait in the lobby. Confirm the vehicle’s plate number via message so you recognize it when it arrives.
• Operator offices in central Hanoi: Offices are often near Hoan Kiem Lake or in the French Quarter. From other parts of the city, order a Grab/Be/Gojek car or hail a metered taxi using your hotel to help with directions.
• Drop-off in Ha Long / Hon Gai: Many vans stop near Bai Chay or at cruise harbors; check the exact stop name on your voucher. From there, use a local taxi or Grab car for the final few kilometers to your Hon Gai hotel or pier.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #2 — Private Transfer / Taxi (Most Convenient Door-to-Door)

Door-to-door Flexible schedule Higher cost

• Overview: A private car or minivan picks you up at your hotel (or directly from Noi Bai Airport) and drives you via the expressway to your accommodation or pier in Hon Gai, usually in 2.5–3 hours. You choose the departure time, ideal for families or groups.
• How to book (with price): Prices typically range from US$80–150 per car one-way for 1–7 passengers, depending on vehicle size and pickup point. You can request instant quotes and book online via platforms like GetTransfer, browse set-price transfers on Trip.com’s private Hanoi–Halong transfer listings, or arrange an airport pickup through services such as Welcome Pickups in Hanoi.
• Pros: Fully private, no waiting for other passengers, custom departure time, space for bulky luggage, easiest with kids and elderly travelers, direct drop at your cruise pier or hotel in Hon Gai.
• Cons: Higher cost than shared limousines; you need to coordinate meeting points and driver contact details; limited English with some local drivers (message-based communication works well).

Step-by-step: Booking a Private Transfer

1. Confirm your Hanoi pickup location (Old Quarter hotel, another district, or Noi Bai Airport) and your exact destination in Ha Long / Hon Gai (hotel or pier name).
2. Request quotes on a platform such as GetTransfer or browse preset options on Trip.com or GetYourGuide. Compare vehicle types, luggage allowance and reviews.
3. Choose a pickup time that allows margin for Hanoi traffic and, if connecting to a cruise, reach the pier at least 30–60 minutes before check‑in closes.
4. Share your flight number (if airport pickup), hotel address and WhatsApp/Zalo number so the driver can reach you. Take a screenshot of the booking and vehicle plate if provided.
5. On the day, meet your driver at your hotel lobby or airport arrival hall. If you can’t find each other, use app messaging or call the operator; staff usually speak at least basic English.
6. Enjoy a non‑stop ride via the expressway. Ask the driver for a restroom stop if needed (they’re used to this request).
7. Arrive directly at your Hon Gai hotel, cruise office, or pier check‑in desk without needing an extra taxi.

Getting to the main embarking points

• From Hanoi center: Your driver will collect you at your hotel or a landmark you choose (e.g., in the Old Quarter). If your hotel is in a small alley, staff may walk you to the nearest accessible street.
• From Noi Bai Airport: For airport pickups, agree on a meeting point (often outside the arrivals gate, near a specific column or café). If flights are delayed, many services track arrivals, but still message your driver once you land.
• Drop-off in Hon Gai: Provide the exact name and address of your hotel or pier. If you haven’t booked yet, you can reserve a property in Hon Gai or Bai Chay area through Booking.com’s Ha Long city listings and send the hotel address to your driver.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Public / Local Bus from Hanoi Bus Stations (Cheapest)

Budget-friendly Frequent departures Less comfort

• Overview: Standard intercity buses connect Hanoi’s main bus stations (such as My Dinh or Gia Lam) with Ha Long. Travel time is usually 3–4 hours, with limited legroom but frequent departures from early morning to late afternoon. Some routes go to Hon Gai directly; others stop in Bai Chay.
• How to book (with price): Tickets are often VND 150,000–250,000 one-way. You can buy directly at the station or, to keep things simpler, pre-book selected routes via 12Go’s Hanoi–Halong bus page, which shows timetables, operators and reviews.
• Pros: Lowest cost, many daily departures, no need to coordinate hotel pickup; good for experienced, flexible travelers.
• Cons: Less comfortable than limousines, staff may speak limited English, more confusing for first-time visitors, and you need to get yourself to and from bus stations at both ends.

Step-by-step: Taking a Public / Local Bus

1. Decide which Hanoi station is most convenient (My Dinh is common for northern routes; Gia Lam also has buses towards Quang Ninh). Ask your hotel which station is best for your date and time.
2. Check approximate timetables on 12Go or ask your hotel/hostel reception for current departure times and recommended companies.
3. Use Grab, Gojek, Be or a metered taxi to reach the bus station at least 30–45 minutes before departure, especially during holidays.
4. Buy your ticket at the official ticket counter (avoid touts pushing you to unmarked buses). Keep your ticket and seat number handy.
5. Board the bus; staff may store larger luggage in the hold. Expect one or two stops en route for restrooms and snacks.
6. On arrival in Ha Long, check whether you’re in Bai Chay, Hon Gai, or another part of town. If not already in Hon Gai, use a local taxi or Grab to reach your final destination.

Getting to the main embarking points

• My Dinh Bus Station: Located in western Hanoi, reachable by taxi or ride-hailing app from most central neighborhoods in ~20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
• Gia Lam Bus Station: East of the Red River; convenient if you are staying on the Long Bien side or near the French Quarter, again easiest via Grab or taxi.
• Ha Long / Hon Gai arrival bus stops: Local buses may terminate at Ha Long city bus stations or roadside stops; ask staff in advance where you’ll be dropped so you can plan a short onward ride to your hotel or pier.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🛩️ Option #4 — Seaplane from Hanoi + Short Road Transfer (Most Scenic)

Aerial views Fast travel time High cost

• Overview: A seaplane flight from Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport to Ha Long’s Tuan Chau Marina lets you soar over the Red River delta and limestone karsts before landing on the water. Flight time is about 45 minutes. From Tuan Chau, you transfer by taxi or car (~15–30 minutes) to Hon Gai.
• How to book (with price): One-way fares usually start from around US$170–250 per person, depending on season and promotions. Some operators and cruise companies also sell flight + cruise packages; you can discover options through aggregators such as 12Go’s Hanoi–Halong route overview or curated cruise portals, or by browsing Halong Bay day trips and luxury cruises with transfers on GetYourGuide and similar platforms.
• Pros: By far the most scenic and fastest option, great photo opportunities, avoids highway traffic, often includes commentary.
• Cons: Expensive, luggage limits may apply, schedules can be more weather-sensitive (fog or storms), and you still need a short transfer from Tuan Chau to Hon Gai.

Step-by-step: Seaplane + Transfer

1. Check seaplane flight schedules that fit your overall itinerary and any cruise check‑in time. Allow enough time at Noi Bai for check‑in and security.
2. Book your ticket online via the operator or a trusted booking site, and note luggage restrictions and weight limits.
3. On the travel day, get to Noi Bai Airport using a taxi, ride-hailing app, or an airport transfer booked on Klook or similar services.
4. Check in, enjoy the short scenic flight over Ha Long Bay, and land at Tuan Chau Marina.
5. From Tuan Chau, take a taxi or Grab car to Hon Gai (usually under an hour, depending on traffic and your exact drop-off).
6. If you’re connecting straight onto a cruise, look for packages that bundle the seaplane flight with pier transfers and cruise boarding to minimize logistics.

Getting to the main embarking points

• Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi): Reach the airport 1.5–2 hours before your seaplane check‑in using Grab, a local taxi, or pre-booked services such as Welcome Pickups or airport transfers via Klook or Trip.com.
• Tuan Chau Marina (Ha Long): After landing, follow crew/staff directions to the dock and terminal area, then either board your cruise or transfer by taxi/Grab towards Hon Gai or Bai Chay.
• Hon Gai hotels and piers: Because Hon Gai is across the bridge from Bai Chay/Tuan Chau, plan for a taxi ride of roughly 10–30 minutes; keep your hotel or pier address ready in Vietnamese to show the driver.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Hanoi to Halong Bay Hon Gai)

How long does it take to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay (Hon Gai)?
Most shared limousines and tourist buses take around 2.5–3.5 hours via the expressway, depending on pickup rounds and traffic. Private cars are similar or slightly faster. Public buses may take 3–4 hours, and seaplanes take about 45 minutes of flight time plus a short road transfer.

Is it better to stay in Hon Gai or Bai Chay?
Hon Gai is more local and convenient for the old town, markets and some piers, while Bai Chay has more resorts, theme parks and easy access to big cruise marinas. Many travelers stay in Bai Chay for classic bay views and visit Hon Gai for a more local feel; if your cruise departs from a specific pier, choose accommodation on the same side to reduce transfer time.

Can I travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay on the same day as my international flight?
It is possible but not recommended to schedule tight connections. If you land in the morning and head straight to Ha Long, allow generous buffer time for immigration, baggage claim and traffic, and consider a private transfer for flexibility. If you have an evening or late-night flight out of Hanoi, try to return from Ha Long earlier in the day or spend the final night in Hanoi to reduce stress.

Do I need to book transport in advance?
For peak seasons, weekends and public holidays, booking limousines, buses or private transfers at least a few days in advance is wise. Last-minute tickets may still be available from Hanoi bus stations, but you will have fewer choices of departure times or comfort levels. Cruise and day-trip packages that include transfers should also be reserved ahead of time.

Are there luggage limits on buses and limousines?
Most limousine vans and tourist buses will accept at least one suitcase and one small carry-on per passenger, but space can be tight on smaller vehicles. If you have oversized luggage or sports gear, confirm with the operator in advance. Consider storing excess bags in Hanoi through your hotel or a luggage storage service before heading to the bay.

Can I drive or ride a motorbike from Hanoi to Ha Long / Hon Gai?
Yes, but the route involves busy highways and Vietnamese traffic norms that may feel intense if you are not experienced locally. Only attempt self-driving by car or motorbike if you have the correct license, insurance and feel confident. For most visitors, shared limousines or private cars are safer and more relaxing.