Best Ways to Travel from Hoi An to Halong Bay

Hoi An and Ha Long Bay are two of Vietnam’s most captivating and well-known destinations. From the picturesque streets of Hoi An to the breathtaking limestone formations of Ha Long Bay, this trip will take you deep into Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Join with Vietnam Dope Travel on this magical journey as we explore the best ways to travel from Hoi An to HaLong Bay.

Where are Ha Long Bay and Hoi An located in Vietnam?

Hoi An is a charming seaside town found in central Vietnam. It lies within Quang Nam Province, positioned on the eastern coastline and bordering the South China Sea. In contrast, Halong Bay is an awe-inspiring natural marvel in northern Vietnam. 

Located in Quang Ninh Province, it sits about 170 kilometers (105 miles) east of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital. Renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a favorite among travelers for its emerald waters, towering limestone formations, and scenic islands.

Though in separate parts of Vietnam, both Hoi An and Halong Bay offer visitors distinct and enchanting experiences, highlighting the nation’s rich natural and cultural landscapes.

Distance between Hoi An and Halong Bay

The distance from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay is around 500 kilometers if you’re traveling by road. Thanks to modern transportation infrastructure, there are now multiple ways to get between these two destinations, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your itinerary. 

Whether you’re planning a road trip, flying, or combining different forms of transport, the trip from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay offers breathtaking views and remarkable experiences. While the route between the two locations is straightforward, some advance planning is necessary. Despite being in separate regions of Vietnam, various transport options make the journey accessible and easy.

A journey from Halong Bay to Hoi An

While the distance between Hoi An and Ha Long Bay may seem extensive, with careful planning and various transportation options, traveling between these two renowned Vietnamese destinations is feasible and manageable.

Traveling from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay

Taking a bus from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay is a common option for budget-conscious travelers. Although there are limited bus services operating on this route, a few buses run daily, with a journey time of roughly 18 hours. 

The cost for a one-way ticket generally falls between 520,000 and 550,000 VND. Alternatively, you could travel from Hoi An to Hanoi first, and then use another mode of transport to reach Ha Long Bay, similar to the flight or train routes mentioned earlier.

Traveling from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay

For a quicker and more comfortable journey, flying is the best option, though it is more expensive than other forms of transport. You can fly from Da Nang International Airport to Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, followed by a shuttle bus to Ha Long Bay, covering a distance of around 170 km in 3 to 4 hours. 

The flight from Da Nang to Hanoi takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with one-way economy tickets costing between 700,000 and 900,000 VND.

Traveling from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay 

Although there is no direct train route from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay, you can take a train from Da Nang, located about 30 km from Hoi An, to Hanoi. 

From Hanoi, you can continue to Ha Long Bay using a bus or private transfer. There are two main train routes to consider:

• Hoi An – Da Nang – Hanoi – Ha Long: Take a train from Da Nang to Hanoi, then transfer to a bus or car to reach Ha Long Bay. Train fares from Da Nang to Hanoi range from 300,000 to 900,000 VND, and the bus from Hanoi to Ha Long costs between 120,000 and 260,000 VND.
• Hoi An – Da Nang – Ninh Binh – Ha Long: Instead of going to Hanoi, you can take a train from Da Nang to Ninh Binh, then continue by bus or car to Ha Long Bay. The train fare from Da Nang to Ninh Binh costs between 300,000 and 850,000 VND, while the bus from Ninh Binh to Ha Long typically costs 200,000 to 250,000 VND.

FAQs

To help you easily decide on transportation from Hoi An to Halong Bay, let’s dive into some common questions below.

What is the cost of traveling from Hoi An to Halong Bay?

The price varies depending on the transport method you choose. Private transfers are typically the most expensive but provide a tailored, convenient service. Shuttle buses are a more economical choice, offering a comfortable and budget-friendly way to reach Halong Bay.

• Bus fares range between 453,000 VND and 830,000 VND.
• Flight tickets typically cost from 570,000 VND to 2,400,000 VND.
• Train tickets are priced between 690,000 VND and 1,980,000 VND for a one-way trip.

How many daily trips are available between Hoi An and Halong Bay?

There are several daily connections between Hoi An and Hanoi, using various forms of transportation:

• Flights: On average, around 27 flights operate daily between Hoi An and Hanoi, though the number can vary based on the airline and season. You can choose a flight that suits your schedule, needs, and budget.
• Trains: Typically, there are around 10 daily trains traveling from Hoi An to Hanoi. It’s recommended to check the schedule in advance to pick the most suitable one.
• Buses: Approximately 21 buses run from Hoi An to Hanoi every day. These range from standard to luxury buses, providing a convenient and affordable option. Bus frequency can change depending on the company and demand.

Which is the best transport option for this route?

Choosing the best transportation depends on your needs and budget. If speed is a priority and you’re willing to pay more, flights are the quickest and most efficient choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option and don’t mind a longer journey, buses or trains offer a cost-effective alternative, letting you enjoy the scenic route along the way.

Conclusion

Selecting the best travel option from Hoi An to Halong Bay can significantly improve your trip. Whether you prefer the speed of flying or the relaxed pace of a bus ride, each option provides its own set of benefits and experiences. Be sure to plan in advance and pick the mode of transport that aligns with your schedule and personal preferences for a seamless and pleasant journey to one of Vietnam’s most stunning locations.