Detailed Guide on How to Get to Ha Long Bay (Updated 2025)

"How to get to Ha Long Bay" depends on your departure location, distance, and schedule. You can choose from flights, trains, buses, or personal vehicles. Once you arrive in the city, a 25-minute drive will take you to Ha Long Bay, where you can board a boat or cruise to explore every corner of this stunning destination. Let’s dive into the details in the guide below!

1. Where is Ha Long Bay?

Location: Ha Long Bay located in the Northeast of Vietnam, in Quang Ninh province. 

Location of Ha Long Bay (Photo source: Google Maps)

Ha Long City, located along the northern coast of the bay, is approximately 16.8 km from Ha Long Bay itself. Travelers can reach the bay by road from Ha Long City and then continue their exploration by boat.

Distance from Ha Long city to Ha Long bay (Photo source: Google Maps)

>> After exploring its breathtaking limestone islands, you might wonder how to get from Ha Long Bay to Hoi An. Our article provides all the travel options to help you continue your journey smoothly.

2. How to Go to Ha Long Bay? Detailed Travel Guide!

The journey to Ha Long Bay consists of two main stages:

• Traveling from your location to Ha Long City.

• Continuing from Ha Long City to Ha Long Bay by road.

2.1. Traveling from Your Location to Ha Long City

There are four main ways to reach Ha Long City: Air travel, train, road, or waterway, depending on your starting point, travel needs and budget.

2.1.1. By plane

When should you choose this option?

• If you are traveling from a distant location and want to minimize travel time.

• If you have a tight schedule and need to reach Ha Long Bay quickly.

• If you prefer the utmost comfort and convenience.

Routes:

• First, tourists need to arrive at one of the three airports below:

Then, tourists travel from the airport to Ha Long city by means of transportation such as taxi, airport shuttle bus or motorbike rental,... depending on your departure point, needs and budget.

To save maximum travel time, you can choose a plane (Image source: Freepik)

>> Vinpearl Halong is a luxury resort offering stunning bay views and world-class amenities, making it a top choice for travelers. If you're wondering how to travel to Vinpearl Halong, our article provides all the details on transportation options to help you plan a seamless trip.

2.1.2. By train

When should you choose this option?

• When your initial starting point is near the train station.

• When you have a limited budget and want to save costs compared to flying.

• When you want to relax and enjoy the beautiful countryside along the way.

Routes:

Trains give visitors the opportunity to see the idyllic rural scenery of Vietnam (Image source: Freepik)

2.1.3. By road

When should you choose this option?

• When you have flexible time during the trip.

• When you want to optimize moving costs.

• When you want to freely explore beautiful roadside scenery.

Supported means of transportation: Passenger car, limousine, taxi, self-driving car, motorbike depending on the starting point, distance, preferences and budget of the traveler.

• If you are traveling from Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh and other destinations in Northern Vietnam, a private shuttle or limousine service is a great choice. With this service, you will enjoy convenience, comfort and safety throughout the journey. You can refer to the options Premium shuttle service by Joytime.

• If you depart from Central and Southern Vietnam, a bus is the optimal choice to ensure comfort on a long journey.

You can choose Joytime's shuttle services if departing from the Northern provinces of Vietnam (Photo source: Joytime)

2.1.4. By waterway

When should you choose this option?

• When you want to see the river and sea scenery of Vietnam.

• When you are on the island, there is a ferry/boat connection to Ha Long Bay.

• When you want a relaxing and different travel experience.

Supported means of transportation: Ship

You can experience Vietnam's river and sea scenery when choosing to travel by waterway (Image source: Freepik)

2.2. Traveling from Ha Long City to Ha Long Bay

By road: After arriving in Ha Long city, you will need to transfer a short distance to reach the Bay. There are two main road routes for you to choose from: 

• Through Highway 18 and Tran Quoc Nghien: The distance is 16.8 km long, and takes 24 minutes to travel.

• Through Highway 18: Distance 16.2 km with 25 minutes of travel.

Supported means of transportation: Taxi, motorbike (motorbike taxi)

After arriving in Ha Long Bay, to truly admire the majestic beauty of this world natural heritage, you should rent a boat or yacht to visit the islands, caves and enjoy the peaceful space on the bay. Experience a memorable journey on Ha Long Bay with Joytime's classy cruise services. 

After arriving in Ha Long Bay, you can choose cruise services from Joytime to fully explore the beauty of the bay (Photo source: Joytime)

3. Notes When Traveling to Ha Long Bay

To plan a trip to Ha Long Bay, you need to prepare carefully. Here are some important notes to ensure you have a fantastic experience:

• Choose the right transportation method based on your departure point, budget, preferences, and schedule.

• During peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to book flights, trains, or buses 2 - 4 weeks in advance to secure your seat and avoid last-minute unavailability. Early booking can also help you save on costs.

• Stay updated on the latest schedules, ticket prices, and travel regulations.

• Bring all necessary personal documents, such as your citizen ID, passport, and other required papers.

• Check the weather forecast to pack appropriate clothing. Don’t forget to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and hats if you plan to go swimming or participate in outdoor activities. 

• Pack lightly and carry essential items like personal medications, a power bank, and hygiene products.

• Help protect the environment by avoiding littering and following environmental regulations at Ha Long Bay.

Booking Ha Long Bay travel services in advance will help you receive more attractive incentives (Photo source: Joytime)

Ha Long Bay is a magnificent destination with breathtaking natural scenery and a variety of exciting activities. If you're wondering how to get to Ha Long Bay Vietnam, we’ve got you covered with all the details. Whether you're searching for the best travel options or specifically wondering how to get to Ha Long from Hanoi, there are multiple convenient ways to reach this stunning UNESCO-listed site. We hope the information in this article helps you plan your trip easily and conveniently.

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Ha Long Bay? Let Joytime be your companion! With a diverse selection of cruise tours, from budget-friendly to luxury options, along with professional services and a dedicated team, Joytime will bring you the best experiences at this world-famous natural wonder.