How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi – Transport Guide (2025)
Planning a trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh? Whether you want to travel by train, bus, private car, or limousine van, this up-to-date guide has you covered! Find out the pros and cons of each option, prices, booking advice, travel times, and local tips to make your journey easy and stress-free.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Distance & How Long Does It Take?
Ninh Binh is located about 90 km (56 miles) south of Hanoi. Most travelers take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and transport mode. You can go directly from central Hanoi, Hanoi Airport (Noi Bai), or from other parts of the city.
- Train: 2–2.5 hours
- Bus / Limo Van: 1.5–2 hours
- Private Car: 1.5–2 hours
- Motorbike: 2.5–3 hours (for the adventurous!)
Option 1: By Train – Comfortable & Scenic
Taking the train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is popular with both locals and tourists. The train is safe, affordable, comfortable, and offers beautiful countryside views along the way. Trains depart from Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Hà Nội, 120 Lê Duẩn, Hoàn Kiếm) and arrive at Ninh Binh Station in the city center.
- Journey time: 2–2.5 hours
- Departure times: Multiple departures daily (morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening)
- Ticket price: $4–$10 (soft seat, air-con carriage)
- How to book: Buy at the station, on Vietnam Railways’ official website, or via trusted hotel/travel agent
Local tip: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views as you leave Hanoi.
- Downsides: Trains don’t stop at Tam Coc or Trang An, so you’ll need a taxi (15–20 mins) or pre-arranged pick-up from Ninh Binh Station to your accommodation.
Bonus: Overnight sleeper trains connect Ninh Binh with Hue, Danang, and even Ho Chi Minh City—great for long-distance travel!
Option 2: By Bus – Public & Tourist Coaches
Taking the bus is the cheapest and most flexible way to reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi. You can choose between regular public buses or more comfortable “tourist” buses that include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Public bus: Departs from Giap Bat Bus Station or My Dinh Bus Station in Hanoi. Tickets from $3–$5, buses leave every 30–60 minutes, daily from 5:00am–7:00pm.
- Tourist bus: Smaller, air-conditioned, often direct to Tam Coc or Trang An (not just Ninh Binh City). Tickets $7–$12, can be booked online, through hotels, or travel agents.
- Journey time: 2–2.5 hours (can be longer in traffic)
- How to book: Buy tickets at the station, or book online via reputable providers. Some companies: Good Morning Cat Ba, The Long Travel, Queen Cafe.
Tip: Always confirm your drop-off point—some buses only go to Ninh Binh City, not Tam Coc/Trang An!
Option 3: Limousine Van – Fast & Comfortable
Limousine vans are the most comfortable and popular choice for travelers who want door-to-door service. These luxury mini-vans (9 or 16 seats) offer plush seats, air-con, free water, and fast WiFi. Most depart from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels and go direct to Tam Coc, Trang An, or your homestay.
- Price: $10–$18 per person (one way)
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
- Book online or via hotel, seats are limited—reserve in advance!
- Companies: Trang An Limousine, Duy Khang Limousine, Ninh Binh Limousine
Pros: Clean, direct, fast, best for families and those with luggage.
Cons: Slightly higher price, peak times book out quickly.
Option 4: Private Car or Taxi – Flexibility & Comfort
For groups, families, or those who want total comfort and flexibility, a private car transfer is ideal. Door-to-door service, direct to your hotel or homestay at any time you choose. Good for airport pick-ups, late-night arrivals, or those traveling with lots of luggage or young kids.
- Price: $60–$100 per car (one way, up to 4–7 people)
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
- How to book: Online transfer service, hotel front desk, or trusted Hanoi travel agencies.
- Tip: Confirm all details in advance and ask about pick-up at Hanoi Airport if needed.
Heera Travel offers private transfer booking, plus custom Ninh Binh tours. Contact us for a quote or advice!
Option 5: By Motorbike – Adventure Route
Experienced riders and those craving adventure can rent a motorbike and ride the scenic highways and rural backroads to Ninh Binh. Expect winding countryside, local villages, and photo stops along the way.
- Rental cost: $10–$15 per day
- Travel time: 2.5–3 hours
- Bring your license, helmet, and international insurance!
- Pack rain gear and plan rest stops in advance.
Tip: Check weather before your ride and avoid main highways if possible—rural roads are safer and more beautiful.
Booking & Local Travel Tips
- Book train and limo van seats 2–3 days in advance, especially on weekends
- Ask your hotel in Hanoi or Ninh Binh to help with reliable booking
- For families, limo van or private car is best for comfort and luggage
- Always confirm the exact drop-off/pick-up point before paying
- Don’t forget to bring small cash for bus/train tickets, snacks, and taxis
- If you arrive late at night, pre-arrange a pick-up with your accommodation
- Traveling during Tet (Lunar New Year) or major holidays? Book early, as all transport fills up fast!
Why Travel with Heera Travel?
Heera Travel is your local expert for all things Ninh Binh! We help you choose the best transport, arrange private transfers, book trusted drivers, and create custom tours so you don’t waste time or money. From solo travelers to families, our English-speaking team ensures a smooth, fun journey with zero hassle.
- Expert advice on every transport option
- Private car and airport pick-up booking
- Custom day tours or multi-day itineraries
- 24/7 support and insider travel tips
Contact Heera Travel for booking help
Plan Your Ninh Binh Journey