Limousine / shuttle bus
Best balance of comfort, price, and hotel pickup
Train
Cheapest and reliable, good for budget travelers
Private car / taxi
Door-to-door transfer, ideal for groups
Local public bus
Less convenient, no hotel pickup, extra transfers needed
Quick answer: Travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is easy and quick. Limousine buses and minivans are the most popular (fast, comfortable, affordable). The train is a reliable budget option, while a private car offers the most comfort and flexibility. The journey takes about 1.5–3 hours, and tickets or transfers can be easily searched and booked online in advance.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: ~90–100 km
- ⏱️ Travel time: 1.5–2 h (limousine/taxi) | 2–2.5 h (train) | up to 3 h (bus)
- 💰 Cost: Train $3–6 | Bus $6–14 | Private car $35–170
- 🚕 Best comfort: Limousine bus or private car (door-to-door)
- 🚆 Best budget: Train by Vietnam Railways (cheap, reliable)
Last updated April 2026
How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
1. TRAIN from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
👉 Train is the cheapest and easiest way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
- ✔️ Good for: budget travelers and solo travelers
- ✔️ Duration: ~2.5 hours
- ✔️ Comfort: good (seats, scenic ride)
- ✅ Best option: Regular Vietnam Railways train (cheap, reliable, central arrival)
- 💡 Tip: Choose a daytime train for better countryside views.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Book tickets online in advance to secure your seat easily.
The train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a cheap and reliable option. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and trains arrive directly in Ninh Binh city center (see Vietnam Railway Map).
Train tickets cost around $2.80–6.00 per person, with about 5–6 departures daily. It is a good choice for budget travelers and those who prefer a quiet and comfortable ride.
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Trains depart from Hanoi Railway Station and arrive at Ninh Binh station in the city center, close to Tam Coc and Trang An Scenic Complex. From the station, you can continue by taxi or motorbike taxi.
| Train | Departs in Hanoi | Arrival in Ninh Binh | Train Ticket – Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train SE11 (soft seat, sleeper) | 21:25 | 23:40 | From $3.90 |
| Train SE3 (soft seat, sleeper) | 19:20 | 21:32 | From $3.90 |
| Train SE7 (soft seat, sleeper) | 06:00 | 08:14 | From $4.50 |
| Train SE9 (soft seat, sleeper) | 12:50 | 15:05 | From $4.50 |
| Train SE5 (soft seat, sleeper) | 08:55 | 11:08 | From $4.50 |
| Train SE1 (soft seat, sleeper) | 20:50 | 23:04 | From $4.50 |
| Train SE19 (soft seat, sleeper) | 19:45 | 21:52 | From $7.50 |
| Train QB1 (soft seat, sleeper) | 20:05 | 22:13 | From $6.50 |
2. BUS / MINIVAN from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
👉 Bus or van is the best option for direct transport to tourist areas (Tam Coc, Trang An, Hoa Lu).
- ✔️ Good for: comfort and door-to-door travel
- ✔️ Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- ✔️ Comfort: medium to high (best with minivan)
- ✅ Best option: Modern minivan / limousine (faster, more comfortable, hotel drop-off)
- 💡 Tip: Minivans often include hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Book in advance as minivans fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
Another popular and affordable way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is by bus, minivan or minibus. Modern minibuses are often faster and can take you directly to places like Tam Coc, Trang An or Bai Dinh. A bus trip costs about $6–14 per person and tickets can be easily booked online in advance.
Private companies such as XE Vietnam, Trang An Limousine or Duc Duong operate on this route, offering comfortable buses and minivans. Minivans are usually the best choice thanks to better comfort and similar prices.
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Most buses go to Ninh Binh city or Tam Coc, while some minibuses continue to Trang An Complex or Bai Dinh. Tickets are usually accepted on mobile, but it is better to have a printed copy.
Minivans and buses also depart from Noi Bai Airport, making them a convenient option if you want to travel directly from the airport without entering Hanoi city center.
🚐 My experience – minibus from Hanoi to Tam Coc (Ninh Binh)
I personally used a modern shared minibus to travel from Hanoi to Tam Coc, which is part of the Ninh Binh province. The ride was smooth, comfortable, and departed from the Hanoi Old Quarter. The bus was clean, air-conditioned, and offered enough space for legs and small luggage.
It took around 2 hours to reach Tam Coc directly, without needing to transfer in Ninh Binh city. This saved time and effort, especially if you’re staying near the river or exploring the famous limestone scenery.
💡 My tip: Book a minibus with departure in Hanoi city center and drop-off in Tam Coc – it’s the most convenient and scenic way to reach this area. Bring a bottle of water and a power bank if you’re planning to explore right after arrival.
| Bus | Departs in Hanoi | Arrival in Ninh Binh |
|---|---|---|
| Truly Ha Giang | 06:30 | 07:55 |
| Truly Ha Giang | 07:30 | 09:00 |
| Truly Ha Giang | 08:30 | 10:00 |
| Truly Ha Giang | 13:30 | 15:00 |
| Truly Ha Giang | 14:30 | 15:55 |
| Trang An Limousine | 07:00 | 08:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 08:00 | 09:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 09:00 | 10:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 10:00 | 11:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 11:00 | 12:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 12:00 | 13:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 13:00 | 14:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 14:00 | 15:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 15:00 | 16:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 16:00 | 17:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 17:00 | 18:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 18:00 | 19:20 |
| Trang An Limousine | 19:00 | 20:20 |
| Grouptour | 07:10 | 09:10 |
| Grouptour | 08:15 | 11:15 |
| Grouptour | 09:10 | 11:10 |
| Grouptour | 10:10 | 12:10 |
| Grouptour | 11:10 | 13:10 |
| Grouptour | 12:10 | 14:10 |
| Grouptour | 13:10 | 15:10 |
| Grouptour | 14:10 | 16:10 |
| Grouptour | 15:10 | 17:10 |
| Grouptour | 16:10 | 18:10 |
| Grouptour | 17:10 | 19:10 |
| Grouptour | 15:45 | 18:45 |
| Binh Minh | 06:30 | 08:30 |
| Binh Minh | 07:30 | 09:30 |
| Binh Minh | 08:30 | 10:30 |
| Binh Minh | 09:30 | 11:30 |
| Binh Minh | 10:30 | 12:30 |
| Binh Minh | 11:30 | 13:30 |
| Binh Minh | 12:30 | 14:30 |
| Binh Minh | 13:30 | 15:30 |
| Binh Minh | 14:30 | 16:30 |
| Binh Minh | 15:30 | 17:30 |
| Binh Minh | 16:30 | 18:30 |
| Binh Minh | 17:30 | 19:30 |
| Binh Minh | 18:30 | 20:30 |
| Sapa Dragon | 08:00 | 11:00 |
3. PRIVATE TAXI / CAR from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
👉 Private taxi/car is the best option for maximum comfort and door-to-door transfer.
- ✔️ Good for: families, groups, or private travel
- ✔️ Duration: ~1.5–2 hours (fastest option)
- ✔️ Comfort: very high (private car, no stops)
- ✅ Best option: Private car with driver (flexible departure, hotel-to-hotel transfer)
- 💡 Tip: Ideal for groups — the price per person can be similar to a minivan.
- 🌏 Extra tip: Agree on pickup time and exact address in advance to avoid delays.
The most comfortable and fastest way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is by private taxi or car. You can book a modern vehicle with driver and travel directly from your hotel or from Noi Bai Airport after arrival.
Private companies such as Saigon DMC, Booking Car, Dichung Taxi or Ouros Travel offer standard cars, SUVs and minivans. A minivan is a good option for groups who want to share the cost and have the whole vehicle for themselves.
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Private transfers cost about $35–170 per car, depending on vehicle type. The main advantage is door-to-door service and flexible departure time.
Most providers have good reviews, so it is recommended to choose based on recent customer ratings when booking online.
| Taxi Company | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|
| Saigon DMC | 02:00 | From $34.00 |
| Viet Techn. Travel | 01:30 | From $34.00 |
| Ouros Travel | 02:15 | From $36.00 |
| Hanoi VIP Transfer | 01:30 | From $54.00 |
| Travel Holic Bus | 02:00 | From $70.00 |
| Mui Ne Go Travel | 01:30 | From $130.00 |
| Trang An Limous. | 02:30 | From $85.00 |
| April Adventure | 02:00 | From $100.00 |
| Halong Transport. | 02:00 | From $40.00 |
| APT Travel | 02:00 | From $60.00 |
| Mui Ne Sky Travel | 01:30 | From $59.00 |
| Dichung Taxi | 02:00 | From $80.00 |
| GoAir Travel | 02:30 | From $44.00 |
| Grouptour | 01:40 | From $90.00 |
| Muine Express | 02:30 | From $70.00 |
| Cat Ba Express | 02:00 | From $80.00 |
4. TRAVEL BY MOTORBIKE to Ninh Binh
👉 Motorbike is the best option for adventure and flexible travel experience.
- ✔️ Good for: experienced riders and independent travelers
- ✔️ Duration: ~2–3 hours (depending on stops)
- ✔️ Comfort: low to medium (depends on riding skills)
- ✅ Best option: Rent a motorbike in Hanoi and travel at your own pace
- 💡 Tip: Only choose this option if you have riding experience and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- 🌏 Extra tip: Start early to avoid traffic and enjoy quieter roads.
Dreaming of an authentic Vietnamese adventure? Look no further than a motorbike journey to Ninh Binh. With its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable experience for those with a taste for adventure. However, traveling by motorbike is not suitable for every traveler and requires certain driving skills.
Easy Travel Route to Ninh Binh:
Traversing the route to Ninh Binh on a motorbike is not just a journey; it’s an experience. The roads are well-maintained, and the scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, offering travelers a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty at every turn.
Must-Visit Stops:
Along the way, be sure to make pit stops at iconic landmarks such as the Perfume Pagoda (Chùa Thiên Trù) or the tranquil Van Long Nature Reserve. These destinations offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry and provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.
Convenient Motorbike Rentals:
For those starting their journey from Hanoi, motorbike rentals are readily available, with options to suit every budget. Prices typically range from $7 to $15 per person per day, making it an affordable and convenient mode of transportation.
Experience Required:
While the allure of the open road may be tempting, it’s essential to note that this journey is best suited for experienced motorbike drivers. Familiarity with navigating varying terrains and traffic conditions is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Legal Preparations:
Before hitting the road, make sure to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP), as it’s a legal requirement for driving in Vietnam. This ensures that you’re authorized to operate a motorbike during your travels.
How to get from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
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- from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi to Ninh Binh you can travel by van/minivan or private car
- Noi Bai International Airport is about 30 km north of Hanoi
- travel by van/minivan from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes about 2.5-3 hours
- transport company from Noi Bai Airport to Ninh Binh: XE Vietnam, Daiichi Travel, Techbus VN, Ninh Binh Excursion Company
- one-way ticket from Noi Bai Airport to Ninh Binh costs about $15-30/pp
- there are also some private taxi companies, private car costs about $35-170/pp
- Book tickets from Noi Bai International Airport to Ninh Binh (Tam Coc, Trang An) on 12go.asia ➜
Hanoi to Ninh Binh by bus, train, van, taxi or motorbike.
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- Embarking on a journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a charming destination in Vietnam, is a breeze as the distance between the two is approximately 85 km. Various transportation options are available, ensuring a hassle-free transfer. Whether you prefer train travel, tourist buses, limousines / minivans, private taxis, or even motorbikes, there are plenty of ways to reach Ninh Binh. The best way how to travel and get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is to travel by train of Vietnam Railways or tourist bus/van (train and bus tickets are very cheap).
- Private minivans have the advantage that they often go to popular places such as Tam Coc, Trang An or Ninh Binh city, or they will take you directly to your hotel or accommodation. And these minivans or minibuses are a relatively cheap option of transport, for which they offer great comfort. In my opinion – transfer by train from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh is the best and also cheapest solution how to reach Ninh Binh town.
The train is the most popular and cheapest way to get to Ninh Binh.
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- Travel by train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes about 2.5 hours and train tickets start already at $3.00/pp. Bus tickets from Hanoi to Ninh Binh costs about $6-14/pp. There are also private modern comfortable minivans to Tam Coc, Trang An Ecotourism Site, Mua Caves or Hoa Lu (book and search them with Baolau). So, if you want to skip Ninh Binh town you can use these minivans. Private taxi to Ninh Binh is also available and you can book private taxi or car from Hanoi to Ninh Binh online. Private taxi/car to Ninh Binh from Hanoi costs about $35-140/vehicle.
- Yes, sure, you can also travel by motorbike – if you are a good motorbike driver (and IDP in Vietnam is necessary). It is not really a big problem to find an accommodation (Discount up to 60%) in Ninh Binh town and nearby places. Book and buy train+bus e-tickets from Hanoi to Ninh Binh online.
Ninh Binh is one of the most popular tourist places in northern Vietnam.
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- Ninh Binh is also a good place also for the one day trip from Hanoi, but you can spend in Ninh Binh also about 3 days, because there are many interesting sites. Ninh Binh is a good and easily accessible place for stop, when you travel to central or southern Vietnam. Many travelers from Hanoi want to visit Ninh Binh town and places close to the town (Tam Coc, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park..).
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- There are no flights to Ninh Binh from Hanoi because Ninh Binh has no airport. Read all the instructions how to reach Ninh Binh below. Book and buy your train tickets from $2.80/pp (hard seat) or bus/minivan tickets online. From Ninh Binh you can travel by train or bus to Hue, or you can travel to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
Practical Travel Tips for Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is one of the most popular short travel routes in northern Vietnam. You can travel by train, tourist bus, limousine van or private car.
- Best Option: Tourist buses and limousine vans are fast, cheap and very popular.
- Train Travel: Trains are comfortable and arrive at Ninh Binh Railway Station near the town center.
- Best Departure: Morning departures are usually less crowded and more punctual.
- Avoid Cheap Offers: Use trusted companies and avoid unofficial minibuses in Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Rainy Season: Heavy rain from May to October can occasionally slow road transport.
- Book Early: Tickets can sell out quickly during weekends and holidays.
Tip: Bus, train and private transfer tickets can be searched and booked online in advance.