Finding the best way for how get to Ninh Binh from Ha Noi is a top priority for travelers finishing their northern Vietnam adventure. Since Ninh Binh is a province located just 90 kilometers south of the capital city, the return trip is quick and full of variety.
Whether you prefer a luxury limousine, a scenic train ride, or a budget-friendly public bus, the journey typically has a duration of 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Most routes follow National Highway 1A, passing through the quiet landscapes of Ha Nam before reaching the bustling streets of Hanoi.
How far from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
The distance from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is approximately 90 to 100 kilometers (about 56 to 62 miles) south of the capital. Depending on your chosen mode of transport and the traffic conditions leaving the city, the journey typically takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
To cover this stretch, we have several convenient transport options that suit different travel styles. If you prioritize comfort and flexibility, a private car is the top choice, offering a direct duration of just 1.5 to 2 hours with door-to-door service.
For solo travelers, a limousine shuttle or the train from Ga Hà Nội provides a relaxing journey, while the public bus remains the most budget-friendly way to reach Ninh Binh City. For those seeking a bit of adventure, riding a motorbike along National Highway 1A allows us to enjoy the changing scenery at our own pace.
Best Ways to Travel from Ninh Binh to Ha Noi: A Complete Comparison
Private Car and Taxi Transfers for Ultimate Flexibility
When we travel in a large group or with lots of luggage, we find that a private car provides flexibility that other methods lack. HuraCars provides private cars transfer with high quality service, professional driver and very affordable price. A private car has a cost of 1,500,000 to 2,200,000 VND, but since you can split this among four or more people, it becomes quite reasonable.
We love that the driver will pick you up directly from your hotel after you explore the scenic boat routes in the region. There is no waiting for other passengers and no fixed schedules. You are the boss of the journey. This is the best way for a transactional traveler who values time over everything else.
Our most popular private transfer routes to Ninh Binh include:
Enjoy flexible departure times, professional drivers, comfortable vehicles, and direct hotel pick-up for a smooth journey to Ninh Binh. Contact Huracars via WhatsApp +84 9348 99900 for more details.
Traveling by Limousine and Shuttle Bus for Maximum Comfort
We absolutely love the limousine for this route because it offers luxury seating that makes the two hours fly by. A high-quality limousine has a price ranging from 180,000 to 350,000 VND, which is a great value for the level of service provided. These vans are not your average buses; a limousine provides WiFi, USB charging ports, and chilled bottled water.
Because these services focus on comfort, they usually pick up passengers from central spots in Tam Coc or Trang An and drop them off in Hoan Kiem District. We recommend this for anyone who wants a “set it and forget it” experience.
Just remember that tickets often need to be booked in advance, especially on weekends when everyone is heading back to the city. It is a neutral fact that while they are comfortable, they have fewer stops than a local bus.
Taking the Train: A Scenic and Relaxing Journey
If you want to stretch your legs, the train is a fantastic choice. Vietnam Railways operates SE trains that run daily between the two cities. We find the train has a schedule that is very reliable, with options like the Train SE7 having a departure time of 06:10 from the Ninh Binh Railway Station.
Prices for the train are quite reasonable, often between 100,000 to 230,000 VND. We like that you can choose between sleeper beds or air-conditioned seats. The train allows for a relaxed journey where you can watch the Red River Delta scenery through the window. Here is a sample of the daily departures:
- SE7 06:10 – 08:26
- SE5 15:30 – 17:46
- SE3 19:20 – 21:31
- SE19 19:50 – 21:59
- SE1 21:10 – 23:25
While we enjoy the views, a neutral point is that the total travel time may be longer due to the time spent getting to and from the stations.
Budget Travel via Public Bus from Local Stations
For the ultimate local experience, we often see travelers heading to the main road to catch a public bus. A public bus has a starting point at the Ninh Binh bus station and typically stops at Nuoc Ngam Station or Giap Bat Station in southern Hanoi.
The public bus is a very budget-friendly choice, costing only about 100,000 to 150,000 VND. We don’t particularly like the lack of WiFi or the potential for crowding, but we respect the frequency of the service. These buses run almost every 15 to 30 minutes. It is a sample of how locals move between provinces. Just keep an eye on your belongings, as security can be a concern in very crowded spaces.
An Adventurous Motorbike Ride via National Highway 1A
For the “Easy Riders,” traveling by motorbike is the ultimate thrill. A motorbike fuel cost is 150,000 to 300,000 VND including the rental fee. We start from Giai Phong Road and follow the National Highway 1A, which links Hanoi and Ninh Binh. This motorbike journey requires an International Driving License and a good amount of physical stamina.
The Motorbike has a main road designated as National Highway 1A. While the weather affects motorbike travel, riding through the countryside allows you to see the “real” Vietnam. We recommend using a navigation app to track your GPS location so you don’t miss the turn-offs toward the limestone mountains.
Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey to Ninh Binh
Before you leave, we have a few tips to ensure everything goes well. First, always check the latest train schedule Hanoi to Ninh Binh as times can shift. Second, the transportation you choose should match your luggage size.
- Book your ticket early if you are traveling at weekend.
- Ninh Binh is a category of tourist destination that is very busy during the Lunar New Year.
- The weather affects motorbike travel, so bring a raincoat even if it looks sunny.
- A navigation app is your best friend on the road.
Connecting to Top Attractions Upon Arrival in Ninh Binh
Once you arrive, the real fun begins. Ninh Binh features Trang An, a UNESCO site that is breathtaking. Most travelers head straight to the Trang An Landscape Complex or the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. If you are looking for the best hidden gems and activities in Tam Coc, you will find that most transport options drop you close enough to rent a bicycle or take a short taxi ride to the docks.
We also suggest visiting the Mua Caves for a panoramic view and the Bai Dinh Pagoda for its massive scale. For a quieter time, the Van Long Nature Reserve is a beautiful alternative to the more crowded spots.