Best Ways: How to Get from Hanoi to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh
Are you looking for the best ways to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh? Ninh Binh is one of the best destinations in Vietnam, so don’t miss it on your Vietnam Itinerary.
Tam Coc is a small village in Ninh Binh province, which is the best base to enjoy the spectacular scenery of limestone peaks, rice fields, and huge valleys, take boat trips, visit temples & pagodas, and get an insight into traditional village life. Ninh Binh province is home to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getting to Ninh Binh may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are several ways to get there. You can easily get to Ninh Binh by bus, train, taxi, or minivan.
In this ultimate guide, you will find all the ways to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, such as the cheapest and quickest way to travel, journey times, and how much a bus ticket or private transfer will cost.
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Hanoi to Ninh Binh Distance
The distance between Ninh Binh and Hanoi is about 95 km, which is 1.5-3 hours, depending on traffic and mode of transport.
Scroll down for more information about which transport is the best for you, how long the journey takes, and how much a taxi or bus ticket will cost.
Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh by Taxi, Private Transfer
One of the easiest and fastest ways to get to Ninh Binh is by taxi. The journey time takes 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.
A taxi cost from Hanoi Airport to Ninh Binh starts from 40 USD, depending on the number of passengers, time of day, etc. If you are not traveling alone, the price is affordable.
Before you get in the taxi, be sure to agree on a price with the driver. The taxi drivers do not accept card payments, so you should bring local money!
Alternatively, book a private transfer to Ninh Binh, which starts from 69 USD per person, and 5 pax are allowed. The journey takes 2 hours.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh Day Trip
The nickname of Ninh Binh is “Halong Bay on Land”, so visit it, and you won’t be disappointed. During your tour, you can enjoy a boat trip to Tam Coc, see the fascinating caves, and visit Hoa Lu, the first ancient capital of Vietnam. Experience local life while cycling through traditional villages, enjoying picturesque views, discovering ancient temples, and enjoying a delicious Vietnamese lunch.
The tour price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, roundtrip transportation by bus, a boat trip to Tam Coc, an English-speaking guide, lunch, water, bike rental, 1 traditional hat, and entrance fees.
Book this top-rated Ninh Binh day trip via GetYourGuide or Viator.
Are you spending limited time in Vietnam but want to make the most of your visit? For the ultimate experience, book a 3-day Luxury Ninh Binh & Halong Bay 5-Star Cruise tour HERE.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh by Train
One of the best ways to get to Ninh Binh is by train. Hanoi train station is just a 30-minute walk or 10-minute taxi ride from the Old Quarter. You can easily reach Hanoi railway station from the airport by bus, minivan, or taxi.
The train journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes 2.5 hours. As trains only run five times a day, tickets sell out quickly. Therefore, we recommend buying them days in advance online (especially in high season).
The train tickets cost between 6-8 USD, depending on the type of train.
Check train timetables and availability HERE.
TIP
After arrival, rent a motorbike to explore Ninh Binh.
Tam Coc by Minivan
One of the best and most popular ways to get to Ninh Binh is by air-conditioned Limo minivan, which allows 20 kg of luggage per passenger. It is safe for solo female travelers.
A shuttle minivan to Ninh Binh starts from 7 USD. The journey time takes 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh by Bus
The cheapest way to reach Ninh Binh is by bus. The travel time is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. Buses run several times a day.
Many bus companies offer buses to Ninh Binh. Each company has different departure stations, and you can travel to Ninh Binh or Tam Coc.
The bus tickets start from 4 USD, depending on the type of bus (standard, tourist, express, luxury).
TIP
Buy your bus tickets online through 12Go or Bookaway.
Where to Stay in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh City has some luxury resorts, but accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.
Best hotels in Ninh Binh, Vietnam
- Mid-Range: Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort
- Budget: An’s Eco Garden Resort or Tam Coc Holiday Hotel & Villa
TIP
Alternatively, stay in the small village of Tam Coc, which offers a more authentic Vietnamese atmosphere.
More Travel Guides about Vietnam
- 9 Best Things to Do in Hoi An, Vietnam
- Best Ways: How to Get from Hanoi to Sapa
- Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam for 3 Days
We hope our post on how to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh will help you plan your next trip to Vietnam. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Train/Transfer – 12Go