Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s crown jewels, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a destination that millions of travelers dream of seeing. If you plan to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi, you’re not alone. Hanoi is the capital city and the most common starting point, and thanks to new expressways and modern transport options, the journey has become faster and easier than ever.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need: routes, transportation options, the best time to visit, top things to do, suggested itineraries, practical tips, and FAQs. By the end, you’ll be ready to plan your perfect Halong Bay adventure.
Discover Halong Bay – Why It’s a Must-Visit
Best Time to Visit Halong Bay
No matter how you choose to travel, Halong Bay promises unforgettable experiences, from cruising past dramatic limestone cliffs to exploring hidden caves and floating villages. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, when the weather is clear and comfortable, allowing you to make the most of your journey.
-
Spring (March–May): Clear skies, calm waters, and pleasant weather make this season ideal for cruising and outdoor activities.
-
Autumn (September–November): Mild temperatures and blue skies. Many travelers say this is the best season to visit.
-
Summer (June–August): Lively atmosphere and bright sunshine, perfect for swimming and kayaking, but tropical storms may occasionally cause cruise delays.
-
Winter (December–February): Cool, misty, and atmospheric. It’s less crowded, which is great if you prefer a quieter and more romantic experience.
What is the first image of Halong Bay you can see?
Halong Bay is far more than just a beautiful landscape. Cruising through its limestone karsts, exploring mysterious caves, kayaking into hidden lagoons, and meeting fishermen in floating villages all combine into an experience that feels both adventurous and relaxing.
It’s perfect for everyone, whether families seeking a fun getaway, couples looking for romance, or groups of friends wanting to share a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
How to Get to Halong Bay from Hanoi
The distance from Hanoi ranges from 125 km to 170 km, depending on which route you take. Thanks to the expressway, you can now reach the bay in just 2.5 hours, making it one of the easiest natural wonders to access from Vietnam’s capital. This is the heart of your planning. Depending on your style, budget, and time, there are several ways to travel.
Expressway Shuttle or Bus
-
Travel time: 2.5–3 hours.
-
Why choose this: Affordable and frequent. Shuttles usually pick you up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and drop you directly at the cruise harbor.
-
Things to note: You’ll share the ride with others, and schedules are fixed, so flexibility is limited.
Private Car or Minivan
-
Travel time: 2.5 hours.
-
Why choose this: Door-to-door service, privacy, and flexibility. You can stop along the way for coffee or photos.
-
Best for: Families with kids, groups of friends, or travelers who value comfort and efficiency.
-
Our service: We provide modern cars with professional drivers to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Limousine Bus
-
Travel time: 2.5–3 hours.
-
Why choose this: More comfortable than standard buses, with wider seats, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
-
Best for: Couples and small groups who want comfort at a reasonable price.
By Train
-
Travel time: 6–7 hours.
-
Why choose this: A slow but scenic journey through the countryside.
-
Things to note: Trains are designed for locals, not tourists. You’ll still need a transfer from Halong station to the harbor, making this option less convenient.
By Seaplane
-
Travel time: 45 minutes.
-
Why choose this: A luxury experience with unbeatable aerial views of Halong Bay’s limestone peaks and turquoise waters. You’ll land directly on the water, a dramatic way to begin your cruise.
-
Our service: We arrange seaplane transfers that can be paired with private cruises, ideal for luxury seekers or honeymooners.
💡 Tip: If you’d rather skip the hassle of planning, we can arrange private transportation and customized tours for you. Whether it’s a transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay, a seaplane experience, or a tailor-made overnight cruise. Our service ensures you’ll enjoy the bay stress-free, leaving you free to simply relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Top Things to Do in Halong Bay
Cruise the Bay
The highlight of any visit is a cruise. You can choose a day cruise to see the main highlights or an overnight cruise to sleep on the water under the stars. Overnight cruises offer more activities like squid fishing, cooking classes, and sunrise tai chi.
Explore Caves & Grottos
Cave exploration in Halong Bay begins with short scenic hikes that reveal some of the bay’s most stunning formations. At Sung Sot (Surprise Cave), a forest-lined stone path and several hundred steps lead to a hidden entrance that opens into vast chambers filled with stalactites glistening under soft light. Nearby, Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave) welcomes visitors with a gentle climb through lush surroundings before revealing an interior of intricate limestone formations and natural artworks shaped over millions of years.
Caution: Paths inside both caves can be uneven and slightly damp, especially after rain. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and move carefully on the stone steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit
Visit Floating Villages
Some fishing villages, like Cua Van, give you a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of fishermen who live on the water. You can see floating schools, homes, and fishing boats, making it a cultural experience unlike any other.
Kayaking & Water Activities
Kayaking through quiet lagoons and hidden corners lets you connect with Halong Bay’s beauty up close. Many cruises provide kayaks, bamboo boats, or even swimming opportunities.
Island Hopping
Don’t miss Ti Top Island with its panoramic viewpoint after a short hike, or Cat Ba Island, famous for its beaches, hiking trails, and national park.
Suggested Itineraries Including Halong Bay
No matter how much time you have, there’s a way to enjoy Halong Bay that will leave you smiling. From a quick two-day escape to a full northern adventure, here are some options to inspire your journey:
2 Days – Halong Bay Escape
Set sail for an overnight cruise and wake up to the serene beauty of Halong Bay. Explore stunning caves, glide through quiet lagoons, visit friendly locals in floating villages, and start your morning with a peaceful sunrise Tai Chi session. It’s a short getaway filled with unforgettable moments, ideal for a family trip with kids or grandparents.
💡Dreaming of a Halong Bay escape that’s both luxurious and budget-friendly? Discover the perfect cruises amid limestone cliffs and emerald waters in our guide to the Best Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay for Travelers
8 Days – Tonkin Elegance Tour
Embark on a scenic journey through Northern Vietnam. Discover Hanoi’s charm, wander among Ninh Binh’s limestone landscapes, and end with a relaxing overnight cruise in Halong Bay. This tour is perfect for families who want a mix of cultural experiences and gentle adventure, with countryside villages, ancient temples, and tranquil waters at a comfortable pace. Explore the full itinerary with the Tonkin Elegance – 8 Days tour.
14 Days – Vietnam Cultural Highlights
Designed for travelers seeking comfort, culture, and exploration at a relaxed pace, this journey combines immersive experiences with worry-free travel. Families can enjoy personalized service and authentic encounters while discovering Vietnam’s rich heritage. Discover the full itinerary with the Vietnam Cultural Highlights – 14 Days tour.
Experience Halong Bay’s emerald waters with our Halong Junk Cruises or explore Northern Vietnam with our tailored Vietnam tours. With private transfers, overnight cruises, and fully customized itineraries, your journey is effortless and unforgettable. Contact us or email us at [email protected] to plan your perfect Halong Bay adventure.
Practical Travel Information
-
Costs at a glance
Traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay can suit every budget. Shared shuttles usually cost around $10–15 per person, private cars range from $60–100 per vehicle, while a seaplane transfer offers a luxury experience starting from $175 one way. -
-
Car or shuttle bus: 2.5–3 hours via expressway
-
Train: 6–7 hours through scenic countryside
-
Seaplane: 45 minutes with unforgettable aerial views
How long does it take?
-
-
Tips for first-time visitors
-
Book in advance: Cruises fill up quickly during spring and autumn.
-
Pack light: If staying overnight on a boat, you won’t need much luggage.
-
Pick your style: Luxury, boutique, or budget cruises each offer a different way to enjoy the bay.
-
Go private if you can: Private transfers save time, offer comfort, and let you travel at your own pace.
-
FAQs
How long does it take to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
With the expressway, it’s only 2.5 hours by car or shuttle.
What’s the best way to get there?
For comfort and convenience, a private car or limousine bus is recommended.
Can I do Halong Bay in one day from Hanoi?
Yes, but it will be rushed. An overnight cruise is more rewarding.
Is an overnight cruise worth it?
Definitely, you’ll experience sunsets, squid fishing, and sunrise on the water, things you’d miss on a day trip.
Are there flights from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
Yes, via seaplane. It’s the fastest and most scenic option, though also the most expensive.
