Planning your journey from the lively city of Hanoi to the peaceful scenes of Ninh Binh might seem a bit tough. But don’t worry! In this handy guide from Asia Legend Travel, we’ll outline all the transport options from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and share some useful tips to make your journey easy and enjoyable.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Routes & Time
Ninh Binh is approximately 94 kilometers south of Hanoi, accessible via the Hanoi – Ninh Binh Highway (CT01). Usually, the journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes around 2 hours by car. With such a reasonable distance, Ninh Binh is an attractive destination for a day trip or even a longer stay.
Below is a useful reference for the distances between Hanoi and some of the most famous tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. Let’s explore some of these:
| Route | Distance (km) | Time (driving by car) |
| Hanoi – Trang An Vietnam | 99 | 1 hour 54 minutes |
| Hanoi – Tam Coc Ninh Binh | 105 | 1 hour 58 minutes |
| Hanoi – Thung Nham Bird Park | 108 | 2 hours 05 minutes |
| Hanoi – Bai Dinh Pagoda | 97 | 2 hours 04 minutes |
| Hanoi – Cuc Phuong National Park | 128 | 3 hours 06 minutes |
Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Best Transport Options for Your Trip
With a reasonable distance and a well-developed road system, there are several transportation options available for travelers going from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Here are the top four methods that travelers often choose.
Bus / Limousine
Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours | Cost: from $4
There are many transportation options to travel to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, with buses and limousines being the most popular choices due to their cost-effectiveness and convenience. Although buses do not provide door-to-door service, limousines do, albeit at a slightly higher price.
If you choose to travel by bus, you’ll need to find your way to the pickup locations. There are a bunch of bus companies running nice sleeper or seated buses from stations like Giap Bat, My Dinh, and Nuoc Ngam. Just select the one that’s most convenient for you!
Motorbike / Private Car
Duration: 2 hours 20 mins for motorbike, 2 hours for private car | Cost: from $5 daily rental for motorbike, from $24 daily rental for private car
If you’re the adventurous type who enjoys the freedom of travel, motorcycles and private cars make for an excellent choice to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. When traveling by these means, you will have the opportunity to explore stunning routes at your own pace. Don’t forget to bring your driving permit and follow all local traffic regulations to make your Vietnamese journey enjoyable and hassle-free!
Taxi
Duration: 2 hours | Cost: from $60
Taking a taxi is a practical choice for small groups of 2-7 people, such as friends or families, who want to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The door-to-door service offers convenience and control over your schedule. You can explore the beauty of Ninh Binh at your own pace without needing to worry about driving, as taxi drivers will take you anywhere you’d like. While the cost of this service may be higher compared to others, it becomes quite budget-friendly when divided per person.
Train
Duration: 2 hours 15 mins | Cost: from $ 4.7
Taking a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a great option, especially if you’re a fan of picturesque views. There are up to 9 trains every day from Hanoi to Ninh Binh city and 6 trains from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, with journeys taking between 2.5 to 3 hours. Even if you’re riding the train for the first time, you may still find it easy and convenient.
Moreover, the train ride won’t break the bank. It’s quite comfortable, well-equipped with toilets, and features a snack cart for your munchies. If you plan to travel during peak season, weekends, or holidays, make sure to book your Hanoi to Ninh Binh train tickets early to avoid missing out.
Tour services
Duration: full-day or multiple days | Cost: from $50
For travelers seeking a simple, stress-free way to see many sights in one trip, an organized tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is your best choice. On most of these day trips, you’ll get to check out Tam Coc Ninh Binh, a mini, inland version of Ha Long Bay, and Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
Also, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring limestone karst landscapes of Trang An Vietnam from a boat, and visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest structure of Buddhist temples in Vietnam. Moreover, you’ll be able to take in the stunning mountain vistas from the viewpoint at Mua Caves Ninh Binh. It’s a lot of bang for your buck!
Comparing the Transportation Options from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Below are some differences among the various transport choices from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
| Factors | Bus / Limousine | Motorbike / Private Car | Taxi | Train | Tour services |
| Cost | Reasonable | Reasonable | High | Reasonable | Depending on your option |
| Benefits | – Cost-effective | – Travel at your own pace | – No worry about driving
– Super convenient |
– Cost-effective
– Safe – Breathtaking views of Vietnam’s landscapes |
– Offers an easy way with minimal preparation
– Offers day to multi-day options |
| Drawbacks | – No door-to-door service | – Driving permit required
– Risk of getting lost for first-timers |
– A little bit expensive | – Necessary to book in advance | – Travel in a fixed itinerary
– Seem a bit mundane for some |
| Best for | Backpackers, or large groups | Adventurers and explorers | Small groups from 2-7 | Adventurers and explorers | First-timers, or large groups |
Tips for a Smooth Journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Here are some key tips when deciding on how to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh:
For those traveling by bus, limo, or train
- Buy your bus tickets early, either online or through a travel agent, to ensure you have a seat.
- Arrive at the station 30 – 45 minutes early to locate your gate and get comfortable.
- Pick a seat in the middle or back for less bumps.
- Bring small snacks and a reusable water bottle for the trip, which will last approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Keep an eye on your belongings and keep your bags close to avoid theft.
For taxi travel
- Find a trustworthy taxi company or book a personal driver.
- Provide the driver with your hotel address in Ninh Binh.
- Ask the driver about their knowledge of the route and recommended stops.
- Save the driver’s contact details for the journey.
For motorbike or private car travelers
- Carry a driving permit.
- Plan your route in advance.
- Travel in company to help each other in unexpected situations.
Transportation Options for Getting Around Ninh Binh
When visiting Ninh Binh, there are several transportation options available for getting around the area. Here are some of the options you can consider:
- Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike is a popular way to tour Ninh Binh. Local lodgings often provide this service, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
- Bicycle Rental: Also, you might consider renting a bicycle. This allows you to appreciate the scenic countryside landscapes of Ninh Binh at a slower pace.
- Taxi or Mototaxi: If you prefer not to drive, taxis and mototaxis are a good option. They are ideal for short trips or if you’d prefer not to navigate by yourself. These transport options are usually found at transport stops, or your hotel can arrange one for you.
Alternatively, consider letting Asia Legend Travel handle your trip. We provide comprehensive Ninh Binh tours that cover all aspects, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and captivating culture of the region. Known for our excellent services and competitive pricing, we are dedicated to making your Ninh Binh trip a memorable experience. Leave the planning to us and enjoy the marvels of Ninh Binh!
Hopefully, if you’re planning a trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, the guide of “Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Best Transport Options” provides a simple method for travel. With its short distance and numerous transportation options, Ninh Binh should be on your bucket list when exploring Northern Vietnam. So, grab your backpack and let’s get ready to explore Ninh Binh together!
