Your Guide: Getting from Van Don Airport to Ha Long Bay

Van Don International Airport (VDO) serves as a convenient gateway for travelers looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of Ha Long Bay. Located approximately 50 kilometers (around 31 miles) from the main tourist hub of Ha Long Bay (Bai Chay area), transferring from the airport to your destination requires a bit of planning. This guide will walk you through the various transportation options available to make your journey from Van Don Airport to Ha Long Bay smooth and hassle-free.

1. Overview of Van Don Airport and Ha Long Bay

Van Don International Airport is a modern airport located in Van Don Economic Zone, Quang Ninh province. It's the closest airport to Ha Long Bay, making it an ideal entry point for many international and domestic travelers. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its thousands of limestone karsts and islands rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. The main tourist area in Ha Long Bay is the Bai Chay ward, where most hotels, restaurants, and cruise departure points are located.

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2. Transportation Options from Van Don Airport to Ha Long Bay

Upon arrival at Van Don Airport, you have several transportation options to reach Ha Long Bay:

2.1. Taxi

Convenience: Taxis are readily available outside the arrival terminal at Van Don Airport, offering a direct and convenient transfer to your hotel in Ha Long Bay.

Cost: This is generally one of the more expensive options, with fares typically ranging from 400,000 to 600,000 VND (approximately 17 - 26 USD) depending on the taxi company, the exact location of your hotel in Ha Long Bay, and the time of day.

Travel Time: The journey by taxi takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Tips:

• Choose reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh (green and white) or Vinasun (white).
• Agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running.
• Have the address of your hotel in Ha Long Bay ready to show the driver.

Upon arrival at Van Don Airport, taxis are conveniently located just outside the terminal, offering a direct route to your accommodation in Ha Long Bay. - Photo source: Pexels

2.2. Private Car Transfer

Convenience: Booking a private car transfer in advance offers a comfortable and stress-free journey. A driver will meet you at the airport with a sign displaying your name.

Cost: The cost for a private car transfer is usually comparable to or slightly higher than a taxi, ranging from 500,000 to 800,000 VND (approximately 21-34 USD) depending on the type of vehicle and the transfer company.

Travel Time: Similar to a taxi, the journey takes around 45-60 minutes.

Tips:

• Book your private transfer through your hotel, a reputable online transfer service, or a local travel agency.
• Confirm the price and the type of vehicle before booking.
• Provide your flight details and hotel address when making the booking.

2.3. Airport Shuttle Bus (Van Don Xanh)

Convenience: Van Don Xanh is the official airport shuttle bus service connecting Van Don Airport with various locations in Quang Ninh province, including Ha Long City.

Cost: This is a more budget-friendly option compared to taxis or private cars. Ticket prices are typically around 150,000 to 200,000 VND (approximately 6.50 - 8.50 USD) per person.

Travel Time: The shuttle bus usually takes around 1 hour to reach Ha Long City (Bai Chay area), with potential stops along the way.

Tips:

• Look for the Van Don Xanh counter or boarding area at the airport.
• Check the shuttle bus schedule in advance to align with your arrival time.
• The shuttle bus usually drops off passengers at designated points in Ha Long City, so you might need to take a short taxi ride to your specific hotel.

As the official airport shuttle bus service, Van Don Xanh provides a route connecting Van Don Airport to various locations within Quang Ninh province, notably Ha Long City. - Photo source Pexels

2.4. Grab or Other Ride-Hailing Apps

Convenience: Ride-hailing apps like Grab are popular in Vietnam and can be a convenient option if you have internet access upon arrival at the airport.

Cost: The cost can be similar to or slightly lower than a regular taxi, depending on demand and traffic.

Travel Time: The journey time is similar to a taxi or private car (45-60 minutes).

Tips:

• Ensure you have a local SIM card or reliable Wi-Fi to book a ride.
• Confirm the driver's identity and vehicle details before getting in.
• Be aware that the availability of Grab drivers at the airport might vary.

2.5. Public Bus (More Budget-Friendly, Less Direct)

Convenience: Taking a public bus is the most budget-friendly option but also the least direct and can be more time-consuming. You might need to take multiple buses or transfer.

Cost: This will be significantly cheaper than other options, likely costing under 100,000 VND (approximately 4.50 USD).

Travel Time: The travel time can be longer, potentially taking 1.5 to 2 hours or more, depending on the route and transfers.

Tips:

• Inquire at the airport or local information centers about the specific bus routes and numbers that go towards Ha Long City.
• Be prepared for a less comfortable journey and potential language barriers.
• This option is generally recommended for budget-conscious travelers familiar with the local transportation system.

Opting for a public bus is the most economical choice, but it's also the most indirect and time-consuming method of transportation. - Photo source: Pexels

3. Choosing the Best Option for You

The best transportation option from Van Don Airport to Ha Long Bay depends on your individual needs and preferences:

• Budget Travelers: The airport shuttle bus (Van Don Xanh) or public bus are the most cost-effective choices.
• Comfort and Convenience Seekers: Taxis, private car transfers, and Grab offer the most convenient and direct journeys.
• Families or Groups: A private car transfer can be a comfortable and efficient option for families or larger groups with luggage.

Consider factors like your budget, the amount of luggage you have, your desired level of comfort, and the time of day you are arriving when making your decision.

4. Tips for a Smooth Transfer

• Book in Advance: If you prefer a private car transfer, it's highly recommended to book it in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
• Confirm the Price: Always confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey, especially if taking a taxi without a meter.
• Have Local Currency: It's advisable to have some Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand to pay for taxis, buses, or smaller vendors.
• Know Your Destination: Have the full address and phone number of your hotel or desired drop-off point in Ha Long Bay readily available.
• Allow Sufficient Time: The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes, but factor in potential traffic, especially during rush hour.
• Stay Connected: Having a local SIM card or ensuring you have internet access can be helpful for booking ride-hailing services or looking up information.

5. Things to Do Upon Arrival in Ha Long Bay

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Once you arrive in Ha Long Bay, you can start exploring the numerous attractions and activities the region has to offer, such as:

• Checking into your hotel in the Bai Chay area.
• Exploring the Bai Chay Beach and promenade.
• Booking a cruise to explore the stunning islands and caves of Ha Long Bay.
• Visiting Sun World Halong Complex for amusement park thrills.
• Enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants.

When you arrive in Ha Long Bay, you can immediately begin your exploration of the many sights and things to do the region boasts. - Photo source: Pexels

Halong Bay offers something for everyone — even families with young children. Discover how to make your trip stress-free and fun in our article on  Halong Bay with Kids Itinerary.

Getting from Van Don Airport to Ha Long Bay is relatively straightforward with the various transportation options available. By considering your budget, comfort level, and travel style, you can choose the best way to begin your unforgettable adventure in one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders. Enjoy your trip!