Hanoi to Halong Bay: 5 ways to travel - The Best Travel Guide

Halong Bay, which is situated in Quang Ninh Province, is one of the must-go tourist attractions in Vietnam. With thousands of limestone rocks, which vary in shapes and sizes, as well as the deep blue water, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Halong Bay is situated in the northeast of Vietnam and 180 kilometers from Hanoi. Because of the increasing demand for traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay, the traffic system has been upgraded in recent years. Hence, there are a lot of choices if you want to have a trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
This article will provide you 5 options for transports to travel, which may help you out of the confusion when planning.

I. Getting from Hanoi to Halong bay by coach/shuttle bus - The cheap way

1. How to get a coach/shuttle bus ticket to Halong Bay?

Basically, there are 2 ways to get a coach/shuttle bus ticket from Hanoi to Halong Bay. The first one is purchasing the tickets directly from the bus station or the bus company. The other one is purchasing through the company's phone number or website, then give them your contact information such as name, seat priority, address (in case some buses provide the pickup services). There are different levels of price, depending on different bus brands and their involved services, but it should cost VND 160,000 on average.

2. Advantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by coach/shuttle bus 

There are reasons that many tourists choose coach/shuttle bus as their main means of transports. This is a budget-friendly option because it is cheap, which varies from VND 100,000 to VND 220,000. 

Moreover, shuttle bus is well-equipped with the air-conditioning system and other comfortable services, since its target customer is foreigners. 

3. Disadvantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by coach/shuttle bus

Although the coach/shuttle bus has a lot of upsides mentioned above, it is not completely an ideal choice to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay. First, if you are planning a one-day trip, this will be not suitable because you have to depart and leave the Bay early, which may seem to be uncomfortable for many tourists. In addition, the service of the coach/shuttle bus maybe not so good as other private options and seems to be disturbing to some people, especially who suffer from motion sickness. Hence, this option will not be the cup of tea to the tourists who long for a relaxing journey.

4. Contact information of coach/shuttle bus in Hanoi

Here is the contact information of some coach/shuttle bus companies in Hanoi:

5. Our recommendations when you travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by coach/shuttle bus

There is some advice for you to have an enjoyable trip by coach/shuttle bus. First, check the time and the name of bus carefully and try to be punctual, you should arrive at the station at least 15 minutes before departure time. During the journey, watch out your luggage. Because traveling by coach/shuttle bus is somehow boring, you should prepare something to entertain (books, mp3 players,..) and snacks (in case you may get hungry). For those who usually suffer from motion sickness, take the medicine at least 30 minutes before departure time.

II. Getting from Hanoi to Halong bay by private car the convenient way

1. How to rent a private car in Hanoi?

Hanoi is a tourist attraction to a great many foreigners, hence it is not too difficult to get a private car rental (both with drivers or not). Normally, there are 2 ways to get a car hired. The conventional one is going to the renting shop and directly arrange with the shop owners about the price, drivers, etc. 

The second one which is more convenient is calling the car service company, making a deal, and providing them your information such as pickup time, location and they will come to your place. But of course, the second way cost an extra amount of money.

It often costs from VND 1,500,000 to VND VND 5,000,000 for a car rental from Hanoi to Halong Bay. To be specific, these are the average prices for 4 types of car:

If you have already had an accommodation Hanoi, ask the receptionists whether they could arrange a private car for you.  It should cost almost the same price as the amount given above. 

2. Advantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by private car 

The private car option is comfortable in case you are traveling in a group of friends or family because it is available at any time and you can arrange with the driver if you want to. Privacy and convenience the most popular reasons why people choose private cars. This is because you will have the space talking with them or taking a rest without strangers' disturbance when traveling by public means of transports. By the way, some drivers know English and they can understand what you mean; therefore, don’t be worried about the language problem during the trip.

3. Disadvantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by private car

The first noteworthy downside of traveling by private car is the high involved fee, which is only suitable for those whose traveling budget is rather great or travel in a team because it costs an arm and a leg. By the way, this is not an optimum selection for those who suffer from motion sickness.

4. Contact information of private car rental in Hanoi

This is the information of some private car rental stores in Hanoi:

5. Our recommendations when you travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by private car

We advise you to take the contact information or business card of the rental store in case something unexpected happens. By the way, discuss carefully with the shop owner about the rental service and make sure the hire fee is not too much, normally it should be around the amount mentioned above. And finally, if you intend to pay a visit to some sites along the way, tell the drivers in order that they may need time to prepare.

III. Getting from Hanoi to Halong bay by taxi - The Carefree option

1. How to catch a taxi from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

It is really easy to get a cab from Hanoi to Halong Bay. You can call the taxi brand to make direct arrangements about the type of taxi and the involved fee. Normally, it costs around VND 11,000/km. However, this can be much cheaper for the discounts with the long distance. The price may vary from VND 900,000 to VND 1,000,000, depending on the cab’s size and the following services.

2. Advantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by taxi?

This is the option that you don’t need to make any prior arrangements a few days before the trip. Besides, traveling taxi is rather comfortable because of privacy and air-conditioning system, as well as the provided soft seats. Also, this means of transport allows you to stop to visit some sites along the way, which offers the flexibility and convenience to your journey.

3. Disadvantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by taxi?

Despite the advantages mentioned above, this option still has limits. The involved fee may be high if you go alone. In addition, this is not suitable for some people who suffer from motion sickness.

4. Contact information of taxi brands in Hanoi

Here is the contact information of some taxi brands in Hanoi:

5. Our recommendations when you travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by taxi

Make sure your driver knows where to take you to. The area of Halong Bay may not be familiar with some drivers from Hanoi and these drivers may end up driving round and round trying to find the destination. Also, you should choose a well-known taxi brand such as Mai Linh Taxi, Thanh Cong Taxi, Thang Long Taxi, ABC Taxi,.. (the ones that are already mentioned above on the table) to avoid scams.

IV. Getting from Hanoi to Halong bay by motorbike - An adventures way

1. How to rent a motorbike in Hanoi?

It’s comparatively easy to hire a motorcycle in Hanoi. Car rental services are available at almost every area, especially the Old Quarter and West Lake. Most of the owners know English and can understand what you want, plus give you suggestions which bike is suitable with your driving experience and aim. All you have to do is trying the bikes and then choosing the one will accompany you.

The average renting fee for a bike rental is VND 200,000/day. You will have to leave your ID or your passport (sometimes they accept a copy) at the rental shop in order to ensure the bike’s safe return. You can go directly to the shop or pay the extra money and they will bring it to your place.  Some shops will give you a discount for a longer hire. Make sure all functions are in good condition and take the shop’s contact and address in case you need help when something unexpected happens on your way. 

Some rental stores provide one-way pick-up and drop-off services, which allows you to ride in only one direction without giving the bike back to your starting point.

2. Advantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by motorbike 

Motorbike is an ideal choice for those who are in love with adventure for its flexibility with your schedule. Biking is the best way to enjoy the nature since the perfect view along the way. You can challenge yourself with the long drive and the flexibility to stop to do sightseeing, as well as take photos, or simply because you are tired. The involved fee is fairly cheap due to the low petrol’s fee and rental price. Moreover, traveling by motorbike is an effective way to run away from the hustle and bustle life for those who take individual trips or travel with friends.

3. Disadvantages of traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay by motorbike

Beside the upsides mentioned above, traveling by motorbike brings about some disadvantages. The first drawback of this option is danger, since the traffic circulation in Vietnam is really chaotic and the distance is quite long. Also, it requires good health and good driving skill. Otherwise, you will be tired when arriving in Halong Bay and then have no energy left for other activities.

Another downside is the weather, which may decide the quality of your trip. This is simply because it is risky and confusing to drive in bad weather condition. 

4. Contact information of motorbike rental in Hanoi

This is the information of some motorbike rental stores in Hanoi:

5. Our recommendations when you travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by motorbike

If this is the first time you have been to Vietnam and you did not drive so often before, we would not recommend you should choose this option because of its danger. But you are skillful enough, traveling by motorbike will be an unforgettable experience.

We suggest that you should research carefully and then find the most suitable bike in order to have a safe journey. Normally, there are 2 common kinds of motorbikes: manual and automatic transmission. Automatic bikes are easier to ride because all you have to do is just turning the throttle and then it will run. However, the manual one is more suitable to travel in case of a long route because you can control the torque manually, which helps you to go uphill easier.

Another thing you should bear in mind is checking the bike carefully before starting the trip. Make sure the functions including brakes, ties, horns, light and gear pedal are in good condition. And also, don’t forget to get the shop’s information in case you need help on the way. Last but not least, do a careful research of the route and prepare a map in case you may get lost and there are some problems with your phone.

V. Getting from Hanoi to Halong bay by seaplane - the awesome experience

1. How to get the flight in Hanoi?

Occasionally, there are 2 ways to book a flight by seaplane. The first one is to call the hotline of the company to directly make a deal. The other way is booking through other tourist agencies.

There are some types of flight, so think carefully what to choose. The cost may vary from VND to VND 7,500,000, depending on the season.

2. Advantages of traveling  from Hanoi to Halong Bay by seaplane

There are some certain benefits that may cross your mind when choosing to fly from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Firstly, this means of transport has a cool landing from water, as well as offers you an incredible view from above. Thanks to the small size of the plane, you will have the chance to get close and between stunning limestone pillars and have the close-up view of the heritage. 

Also, traveling by seaplane is time-saving since it is the fastest way to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi, which only takes you 1 hour on the whole. Especially, beside allowed to use all digital devices, you can use the 4G internet, or Wifi to share with friends, which is quite different and more convenient than traveling by the ordinary plane.

3. Disadvantages of traveling  from Hanoi to Halong Bay by seaplane

The only downside of this option is the high involved fee. A one-way typical flight may cost you about VND 3,500,000 to VND 7,500,000, which is fairly expensive and only suitable for those who have a great budget. But anyway, it is really worthy of its awesome experience.

4. Contact information of seaplane airlines in Hanoi

Hai Au Aviation

Address: Floor 9, 70-72 Ba Trieu Street, Hang Bai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Tel: (+84) 24 3943 9966 / (+84) 962 069 689

Email: rsvn.online@gmail.com

Website: rsvn@haiauaviation.com

Open hour: 08:00 - 20:00

5. Our recommendations when you travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by seaplane?

 Because the price is comparatively high, VND 3,500,000 - VND 7,500,000 with one-way flight and VND 7,000,000 with the round trip, we highly recommend you choose the round trip, which is more economical. In addition, you should bring along a camera to capture beautiful moments because digital devices are allowed.

VI. How to choose a suitable transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

1. What is your budget?

Budget is one of the first and foremost factors that decide which vehicle you will use to travel. If you don’t want to spend too much on transportation, an appropriate choice is taking the coach/shuttle bus and motorbike rental because they don’t cost you much. Otherwise, if your budget is greater, you should choose the private car or the seaplane.

2. Who do you go with?

The way you travel is also dependent on the number of your travel-mates and who they are. If you intend to take an individual trip, coach/shuttle bus and motorbike rental are highly recommended. But if you travel with friends, almost every option is suitable and is an unforgettable experience for you all.

3. When do you have your trip?

Normally, it is ideal that you should travel to Halong Bay from March to May and from September to November because of the nice weather in these periods, which is perfect to do sightseeing, as well as other sea activities. Hence, all kinds of vehicles are recommended at this time

But if you are a budget-minded traveler, it is highly recommended you should go between May and September. This is because it is considered as the low season and there are sales on the cabin, which can save much of your money. However, motorbike rental or the seaplane is not a smart option.

However, the best time to visit Halong Bay really depends on your own definition of a perfect trip.

4. How much luggage do you bring along?

If you intend to bring a pretty much luggage, private cars, and public transportations are better choices than others because they contain much space. But if you want to travel light, take it easy because every vehicle will match your choice.

VII. Brief summary of all vehicles

With the 5 means of transports provided above, we hope you have found the useful information. Transportation is just a part of a journey, but it is always noteworthy. Hence, think carefully and then make a smart decision which option to take in order to have the best memory. We wish you have an unforgettable trip, don’t forget to enjoy the stunning sightseeing in the sea breezes.