How Far Is It from Hanoi to Ninh Binh? 5+ Best Means of Transportation

With a distance of 93 km, travelers can choose from various ways to travel from the capital city of Hanoi to the tourist city of Ninh Binh. The article below will introduce in detail 5 popular means of transportation and helpful tips for a complete journey.

1. Distance from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

The distance from Hanoi to Ninh Binh ranges from 93 - 109 km, equivalent to 1 hour and 50 minutes - 2 hours and 17 minutes of travel time.

Main travel routes:

  • Hanoi - Ninh Binh Expressway: Phap Van - Cau Gie - Ninh Binh Expressway

  • The route via the old National Highway 1A: Giai Phong - Ha Tay - Phu Ly, Ha Nam - Ninh Binh (without turning onto the A1A expressway)

  • North-South railway: Hanoi Station - Ninh Binh Station (Ninh Binh City), Cau Yen Station (Hoa Lu district), Ghenh Station (Tam Diep City), Dong Giao Station (Tam Hiep City)

Before venturing into the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh, see more of the cultural richness that Hanoi offers. Consider exploring "what to visit in Hanoi" to complete your Vietnamese experience.

Ninh Binh's poetic and majestic mountain and river scenery.

Ninh Binh's poetic and majestic mountain and river scenery. - Photo Source: Freepik 

2. 5 Means of Transportation from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

To answer the question "How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi?", we provide readers with five options, each corresponding to a different means of transportation. 

Transportation Mode

Traveling Time

Advantages

Disadvantages

By coach

About 1 hour 30 minutes

Cost-effectivetand easy-to-book Safe travel with increasing comfort upgrade 

Some buses provide transfers to requested locations

Pick-up/drop-off along the way can cause fatigue

Limited seating space

Possible traffic congestion during peak hours

By motorbike

About 2 hours 17 minutes

Freedom in scheduling, stopping at will

Unique and exciting experience, suitable for backpackers

Requires a driver's license and knowledge of Vietnamese traffic laws 

Can easily cause fatigue from continuous travel

Weather-dependent (rain, sun, fog may affect travel conditions)

By private car

About 1 hour 25 minutes

Comfortable and private, ideal for families and groups

Full control over schedule and timing 

Ability to carry large amounts of luggage

High travel costs

Requires a valid driver's license

By train

About 2 hours 11 minutes

Safe with minimal traffic risks

Unaffected by traffic jams

Spacious seating for a relaxing journey

Opportunity to enjoy beautiful scenery along the way

Only a few trips per day, less flexibility

Longer travel time

By contract tourist vehicle

About 1 hour 30 minutes

Idea for large groups, companies, families 

Comes with a private driver while still ensuring privacy 

Various vehicle’s size available to suit different needs

Requires advance booking and involves complex contract procedures, especially during peak tourist seasons

Less flexible compared to self-driving options

Vehicle rental fees are quite high

Similarly, for those interested in exploring other destinations, understanding "how to get from Hanoi to Sapa" is essential for experiencing majestic mountain landscapes. Additionally, researching "Hanoi to Vientiane" travel options is crucial for travelers planning to venture into Laos.

2.1. By coach

Route: My Dinh Bus Station (Giap Bat, Nuoc Ngam) - Ninh Binh Bus Station (Nho Quan, Kim Son, Hoa Lu, Tam Diep)

Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Average cost: 70,000 - 150,000 VND/ticket ~ (2,76 - 5,92 USD)

Criteria

Hai Thang Coach Bus

Dong Chin Coach Bus

Cat Loi Coach Bus

Address

My Dinh Bus Station

Giap Bat Bus Station

Giap Bat Bus Station

Nuoc Ngam Bus Station

Giap Bat Bus Station

Ticket price

About 80,000 VND/ticket (3,16 USD)

About 80,000 - 90,000 VND/ticket (3,16 - 3,55 USD)

About 70,000 - 80,000 VND/ticket (2,76 - 3,16 USD)

Phone number

0912.811.079

0912.353.976

0912.491.587

0392.003.388

Limousine cars are widely chosen by tourists when traveling to Ninh Binh.

Limousine cars are widely chosen by tourists when traveling to Ninh Binh. - Photo source: Freepik 

Traveling tips: 

  • Choose reputable coach companies with reclining seats, known for safety and punctuality.

  • Confirm pick-up and drop-off locations with the coach company. In Ninh Binh, most companies drop passengers off in the city center or at major tourist attractions.

  • Bring a light jacket or scarf because the coach's air conditioner can be quite cold.

  • Avoid traveling during peak hours or close to those times, as Hanoi often experiences traffic congestion around 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM.

  • Pack light and keep your personal belongings secure.

  • Prepare extra drinking water and snacks for the journey.

  • Save the coach company's and driver’s phone numbers in case of emergencies.

2.2. By motorbike

Route: Use Google Maps to follow National Highway 1A

Duration: About 2 hours 17 minutes

Average cost: Approximately 300,000 - 500,000 VND (11,38 - 19,72 USD), including:

  • Motorbike rental fee: 80,000 - 250,000 VND/day (3,16 - 9,86 USD)

  • Fuel: 90,000 - 140,000 VND/trip (3,55 - 5,52 USD)

  • Additional costs: 50,000 - 500,000 VND (1,97 - 19,72 USD)

Criteria

Motogo Shop

Nguyen Tu Shop

Address

1081 Hong Ha, Chuong Duong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam  

112 Nguyen Van Cu, Bo De, Long Bien, Hanoi, Vietnam 

Ticket price

About 80,000 - 200,000 VND/day (3,16 - 7,89 USD)

About 100,000 - 150,000 VND/day (3,94 - 5,92 USD)

Phone number

0338.023.344

0942.467.674

Roads that are both adventurous and visually stunning when traveling by motorbike

Roads that are both adventurous and visually stunning when traveling by motorbike - Photo Source: Freepik

Traveling tips:

  • Choose a reputable shop and ensure the motorbike is well-maintained and has all necessary documents.

  • Travelers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a driving license recognized in Vietnam to be allowed to travel; always carry a copy of your passport and emergency contact details.

  • Prepare rain gear, gloves, sunglasses, and a light jacket to protect yourself. If traveling in the summer, also pack sunscreen and drinking water.

  • Vietnamese traffic can be chaotic and complex, so observe carefully and follow traffic safety laws.

  • Save emergency numbers, including motorbike rescue services and traffic police (113)

  • Download an offline Google Maps map in case of signal loss.

  • Rest for about 10-15 minutes every 1-2 hours of driving to avoid fatigue.

2.3. By private car

Route: Use Google Maps to travel on the Hanoi - Ninh Binh Expressway (Cau Gie - Ninh Binh)

Duration: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Average cost: Approximately 1,100,000 - 1,500,000 VND (43,39 - 59,17 USD)

  • Car rental fee: 550,000 - 1,200,000 VND/day (21,7 - 47,34 USD)

  • Fuel: 300,000 - 500,000 VND/trip (11,83 - 19,72 USD)

  • Other fees: 20,000 - 150,000 VND (0,79 - 5,92 USD)

Criteria

Hao Hung Self-Driving Car Rental

Duc Thanh Transport Service Company

Address

71 Chua Boc, Quang Trung, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam  

362B Xa Dan, Nam Dong, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam 

Ticket price

About 600,000 VND/day (23,67 USD) 

About 550,000 VND/day (21,7 USD)

Phone number

096.819.6668

0435.747.499

Renting a taxi is suitable for travelers with good finances.

Renting a taxi is suitable for travelers with good finances. - Photo Source: Joytime

Traveling tips:

  • Foreign travelers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a driving license recognized in Vietnam.

  • Choose a reputable car rental service, carefully review the contract (including insurance, rental terms, and vehicle condition), and ask staff to guide you on how to use the car.

  • Comply with traffic safety laws, drive on the right, fasten your seat belt, and adhere to speed limits: 100 km/h on the expressway, and 50-60 km/h in residential areas.

  • Prepare cash to pay expressway tolls.

  • Save emergency numbers, which can be the phone numbers of traffic police (113) and car rescue services.

2.4. By train

Route: Hanoi Station - Ninh Binh Station (Ninh Binh City), Cau Yen Station (Hoa Lu district), Ghenh Station (Tam Diep City), Dong Giao Station (Tam Hiep City)

Duration: Approximately 2 hours 11 minutes

Average cost: Approximately 130,000 - 250,000 VND/ticket (5,13 - 9,86 USD)

Train Type

Hanoi Station

Ninh Binh Station

Duration

SE7 Train

06:00 AM

08:14 AM

2 hours 14 minutes

SE5 Train

09:00 AM

11:17 AM

2 hours 17 minutes

SE35 Train

01:10 PM

03:35 PM

2 hours 25 minutes

SE9 Train

02:30 PM

05:13 PM

2 hours 43 minutes

SE3 Train

07:30 PM

09:44 PM

2 hours 14 minutes

SE19 Train

08:10 PM

10:22 PM

2 hours 12 minutes

Traveling by train will bring visitors many interesting experiences

Traveling by train will bring visitors many interesting experiences.- Photo Source: Freepik 

Traveling tips:

  • Book tickets a few days in advance if traveling during peak season.

  • Choose soft seats or sleeper berths for the most comfortable experience.

  • Arrive at the station 30-45 minutes early for check-in trip verification.

  • Keep hand luggage with you and always keep an eye on bags and valuables.

  • Bring food and drinks in advance, or buy from vendors on the train.

  • Ninh Binh station is about 2 km from the city center, visitors can take a ride-hailing service via Be or Grab.

2.5. By contract tourist vehicle

Route: Agreed upon with the rental company

Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Average cost: Approximately 1,300,000 - 4,800,000 VND/day (51,28 - 189,3 USD)

Criteria

Minh Duc Tourist Car

Sinh Tour

Address

No. 9 alley 1/267 Ho Tung Mau Street - Cau Dien - District, Nam Tu Liem, Hanoi, Vietnam  

14 Hang Manh, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam 

Ticket price

Approximately 1,300,000 - 2,300,000 VND/day

Approximately 1,800,000 - 4,800,000 VND/day

Phone number

0983.372.885

0243.999.8979

Tourist car service is an ideal choice for large groups of tourists

Tourist car service is an ideal choice for large groups of tourists. - Photo Source: Freepik

Traveling tips:

  • Review and sign a clear contract to avoid hidden costs.

  • Agree on a specific travel itinerary with the driver in advance.

  • Prepare the Google Translate app for cases where you need to communicate with locals.

  • Save the car rental company's hotline number for emergencies

  • In Vietnam, tipping in Vietnam is not mandatory, but if you're satisfied with the service, a tip of 50,000–200,000 VND is appreciated.

3. 3+ FAQs about How to Travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Joytime answers 3 of the most frequently asked questions on this journey.

3.1. What is the fastest route from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?

Answer: The Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway has a speed limit of up to 100 km/h.

3.2. What is the fastest means of transport from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?

Answer: Traveling by car is the most time-efficient, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes..

3.3. What is the cheapest means of transport from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?

Answer: Traveling by coach is the most budget-friendly option, with ticket prices ranging from 100,000 to 150,000 VND per person.

With the 4 means of transportation above, visitors travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh quickly, conveniently, and safely. Each vehicle has its own advantages, so visitors should consider it based on their actual needs. To learn more about attractions in the city, visitors can refer to Joytime's Ninh Binh tours. The tours have been scheduled in detail, with a variety of experiences, promising to bring visitors valuable moments.

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