Train
Direct, reliable, comfortable seats or sleepers, most popular choice
Private car / taxi
Door-to-door, fastest option, flexible stops
Bus / minivan
Cheap and frequent, various comfort levels available
Motorbike
Long distance, tiring ride, safety risks
Quick answer: Traveling from Vinh to Ninh Binh can be done by train, bus/minivan or private car. The train is the best mix of cost and time, the bus/minivan is a budget-friendly option, and the private car offers door-to-door convenience. There are no flights between Vinh and Ninh Binh, travel by plane is not possible.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: ~200 km |
- ⏱️ Travel time: Train ~3.5-4 hours | Bus/minivan ~3‐4.5 hours | Private car ~3 hours
- 💰 Price range: Train US$7-15 per person | Bus/minivan US$13-38 per person | Private car US$120-170 per vehicle
- 🚆 Best for comfort & value: Train
- 🚌 Best for budget: Bus/minivan
- 🚖 Best for flexibility & convenience: Private car/taxi
Last updated in March 2026
From Vinh to Ninh Binh you can travel by train, sleeper bus or taxi/car.
-
- The travel distance from Vinh to Ninh Binh in Vietnam is approximately 200 km by land. When planning a trip to Ninh Binh, travelers typically opt for two popular modes of transportation: train or bus. Alternatively, traveling by private car or taxi is also feasible. Among these options, the preferred choice for reaching Ninh Binh from Vinh is to take a train operated by Vietnam Railway. Train journeys are known for their safety and comfort. The trip from Vinh Railway Station to Ninh Binh Railway Station usually lasts about 3.5-4 hours, with train tickets priced at approximately $7-15 per person. Booking a seat or a sleeper berth is recommended, with soft seats being the most economical and ideal choice.
- Another viable option for reaching Ninh Binh from Vinh is to travel by tourist sleeper bus or modern minivan. The bus journey typically takes about 3-4 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $13 to $38 per person. Although traveling by tourist bus is the most economical option, train travel is often considered superior due to its safety and comfort. Notably, there are no direct flights from Vinh to Ninh Binh as Ninh Binh lacks its own airport. Flights are only available to Hanoi – Noi Bai Airport, which is approximately 120 km north of Ninh Binh town. Travelers can easily search and book tickets to Ninh Binh from Vinh online. Additionally, from Ninh Binh, visitors can explore Halong Bay in Quang Ninh Province.
-
- Traveling by private car or taxi from Vinh to Ninh Binh is also an option. The Taxi Mai Linh private company operates private taxis for this route. The journey typically takes about 3 hours, and booking can be done online. The cost of transportation by private car or taxi to Ninh Binh ranges from $120 to $170 per vehicle. These three modes of transportation – train, bus, and taxi – offer flexibility for travelers between these cities.
-
- Ninh Binh is a highly appealing historical site in northern Vietnam, easily accessible from Hanoi, the capital. It boasts various captivating karst landscapes, boat trips, historical pagodas, and unique natural areas. Exploring this area by motorbike or bicycle is highly recommended. Among the must-visit sites are Trang An Scenic Complex, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Bai Dinh temple complex, Hang Mua Caves, and Van Long Nature Reserve. From Ninh Binh, travelers can conveniently travel to Hanoi by train, bus, or private car.
| Transfer Mode – Vinh to Ninh Binh | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Train by Vietnam Railways | 3.5-4 hours | $7-15 per person |
| Sleeper Bus / Minivan | 3-4 hours | $13-38 per person |
| Private Car | 3 hours | $120-170 per car |
How do I get from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
1. TRAIN from Vinh to Ninh Binh
👉 Train by Vietnam Railways is the most popular and cheapest way from Vinh to Ninh Binh.
- ✔️ Good for: budget travelers and comfortable direct travel
- ✔️ Duration: ~3.5–4 hours
- ✔️ Price: $7–15 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium to high (seats or sleeper berths)
- ✅ Best option: Vietnam Railways seat tickets for short-distance travel
- 💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
- ⭐ Extra tip: Choose a window seat for better views of the countryside.
The most popular and cheapest way to get from Vinh to Ninh Binh is by Vietnam Railways train. Every day you can use about 6 train connections, which offer you seats and sleeping beds on the trains. The number of these trains may change during the year. As it is not a very long route, it will be enough to reserve a comfortable seat, which is the cheapest option.
However, you can also choose a sleeper berth, these are in cabins for 4-6 passengers and are among the more expensive options, but will offer better comfort. These trains can also be used to continue the journey to Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam. Trains depart from Vinh Railway Station (1 Lê Ninh, Phương Quán Bău) and arrive at Ninh Binh Railway Station (1 Ngõ 41 Hoàng Hoa Thám), check the Vietnam railway map to know where these stations are located.
Ninh Binh train station is a short distance from the city center and from there it is only about 5 km to the popular tourist village of Tam Coc. So from there you can, for example, take a taxi straight to an interesting popular area and stay there. Train travel time from Vinh to Ninh Binh is about 3.5-4 hours and tickets range from $7-15/pp.
You can easily search and buy tickets to Ninh Binh online even in advance, no need to print them, just keep them in your smartphone. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the departure of the train. The train transfer is suitable for all types of travelers, it will offer sufficient comfort for a friendly ticket price.
BOOK TRAIN TICKETS to Ninh Binh ➜
| Train | Departure in Vinh | Arrival in Ninh Binh | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train SE12 (seat, sleeper) | 03:34 | 07:31 | From $6.00 |
| Train SE4 (seat, sleeper) | 22:31 | 02:29 | From $7.00 |
| Train SE8 (seat, sleeper) | 09:44 | 13:38 | From $6.00 |
| Train SE2 (seat, sleeper) | 23:19 | 03:20 | From $7.00 |
| Train SE6 (seat, sleeper) | 12:42 | 16:48 | From $6.80 |
| Train SE20 (seat, sleeper) | 05:09 | 09:04 | From $7.00 |
| Train SE18 (seat, sleeper) | 07:19 | 11:59 | From $7.00 |
| Train SE10 (seat, sleeper) | 20:55 | 02:03 | From $7.00 |
| Train SE24 (seat, sleeper) | 23:02 | 05:40 | From $7.00 |
2. BUS / MINIBUS from Vinh to Ninh Binh
👉 Bus or minibus is a budget alternative from Vinh to Ninh Binh.
- ✔️ Good for: budget travelers and flexible departure points
- ✔️ Duration: ~3–4.5 hours
- ✔️ Price: $13–38 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: medium (sleeper buses or minibuses)
- ✅ Best option: Limousine minibuses for better comfort
- 💡 Tip: Consider the train for comfort, but buses offer more flexible routes.
- ⭐ Extra tip: Choose a limousine minibus for more space and a smoother ride.
Another cheaper way to travel from the city of Vinh to Ninh Binh is a transfer by sleeper bus or modern comfortable minibus. This option is also used, but mainly by Vietnamese residents, tourists prefer a train transfer, which is more convenient. Companies such as Hieu Vien, Phu Quy, Binh Hoai Limousine, Hoang Long, Nam Quỳnh Anh, Phú Thành, Văn Minh, Thọ Như, Sao Nghệ Limousine and others operate bus services on this route.
They mostly offer travelers classic sleeper buses, but there are also smaller minibuses for a limited number of passengers. Buses can depart from various stations, e.g. Northern Vinh Bus Station, Ben Thuy 2 Bridge, Hung Nguyen, Bac Vinh Bus Station, Hong Son Market, or Western Vinh Bus Station, and arrive in Ninh Binh to various locations, mainly to the city center.
BOOK BUS TICKETS to Ninh Binh ➜
Transfer by bus or minibus from Vinh to Ninh Binh takes approximately 3-4.5 hours and tickets range from $13-38/pp. You can try looking for bus tickets online or you can buy them when you get on the bus at the departure stations.
If you are thinking whether to choose transport by bus or train, it is better to take the train, it will offer you good comfort at low prices and you will also arrive almost to the city center. Bus transfers are mainly suitable for low-cost solo travelers who want to visit less accessible places in Vietnam.
| Bus Company | Departs in Vinh | Arrives in Ninh Binh | Bus Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Binh Hoai | 00:00 | 03:00 | From $38.00 |
| Binh Hoai | 01:00 | 04:00 | From $38.00 |
| Binh Hoai | 02:00 | 05:00 | From $38.00 |
| Binh Hoai | 03:00 | 06:00 | From $38.00 |
| Binh Hoai | 04:00 | 07:00 | From $38.00 |
| Binh Hoai | 05:00 | 08:00 | From $38.00 |
| Binh Hoai | 06:00 | 09:00 | From $38.00 |
| Phu Quy | 00:30 | 05:00 | From $14.00 |
| Phu Quy | 08:00 | 12:30 | From $14.00 |
| Phu Quy | 10:40 | 15:10 | From $14.00 |
| Phu Quy | 13:20 | 17:50 | From $22.00 |
| Phu Quy | 22:30 | 03:00 | From $14.00 |
| Hong Vinh | 07:45 | 10:30 | From $15.00 |
| Hong Vinh | 11:00 | 13:45 | From $15.00 |
| Hong Vinh | 18:00 | 20:45 | From $15.00 |
| Hieu Vien | 21:35 | 02:00 | From $13.00 |
| Hieu Vien | 23:00 | 03:00 | From $13.00 |
| Nam Quynh | 11:20 | 15:15 | From $22.00 |
| Nam Quynh | 13:00 | 16:55 | From $22.00 |
| Nam Quynh | 15:50 | 19:45 | From $22.00 |
| Nam Quynh | 22:10 | 02:05 | From $22.00 |
3. PRIVATE TAXI / CAR from Vinh to Ninh Binh
👉 Private taxi/car is the fastest and most comfortable way from Vinh to Ninh Binh.
- ✔️ Good for: travelers seeking door-to-door convenience
- ✔️ Duration: ~3 hours
- ✔️ Price: $130–170 per car
- ✔️ Comfort: high (private car with driver)
- ✅ Best option: Reliable services like Mai Linh Taxi
- 💡 Tip: Book in advance and split the cost when traveling in a group.
- ⭐ Extra tip: Confirm the total price upfront to avoid unexpected extra charges.
Another option to go from Vinh to Ninh Binh, but significantly more expensive than traveling by train or bus, is traveling by private car/taxi. This option is also realistically possible, but you have to secure it in advance or possibly in the city. It has the advantage that you choose your departure point in Vinh and your arrival point in Ninh Binh.
Driving time by private car/taxi from Vinh to Ninh Binh is approximately 3 hours and the fare ranges from $130-170/car, and may vary throughout the year. Transfer by private car from Vinh to Ninh Binh can be offered, for example, by the verified and well-known company Mai Linh Taxi. If you would like to use such a service, it is best to contact this company directly with your request.
❓ FAQ – Travel route from Vinh to Ninh Binh:
1. What is the travel time from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
-
- Travel by train of Vietnam Railways from Vinh to Ninh Binh takes about 3.5-4 hours.
- Travel by tourist bus / modern minivan from Vinh to Ninh Binh takes about 3-4 hours.
- Travel by private car/taxi from Vinh to Ninh Binh takes about 3 hours.
2. How to book and buy tickets from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
-
- You can book train/bus tickets from Vinh to Ninh Binh on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜.
- You can also change your travel route, e.g. Vinh > Hanoi, Thanh Hoa > Ninh Binh…
3. What is the travel distance from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
-
- Travel distance from Vinh to Ninh Binh is about 200 km by train, bus or private car.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
-
- Travel by train of Vietnam Railways from Vinh to Ninh Binh costs about $7-15/pp.
- Travel by tourist bus / modern minivan from Vinh to Ninh Binh costs about $13-38/pp.
- Travel by private car/taxi from Vinh to Ninh Binh costs about $120-170/vehicle, car.
5. How to book a tour in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, Trang An Complex?
-
- You can search and book a tour to Ninh Binh and nearby area easily online with KLOOK ➜.
6. What is the best way of transfer from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
-
- The best and fast option of getting to Ninh Binh from Vinh is to travel by train. Trains are comfortable and safe.
7. What is the cheapest way of transfer from Vinh to Ninh Binh?
-
- The cheapest way of transfer to Ninh Binh from Vinh is to travel by tourist bus. The most cheapest bus ticket should cost about $5-7/pp.
8. Is there some flight from Vinh to Ninh Binh, is it possible to travel by plane?
-
- No, there is no direct flight to Ninh Binh from Vinh because there is no airport in Ninh Binh. There are only direct flights from Vinh to Hanoi – Noi Bai Airport. Noi Bai Airport is about 120 km north of Ninh Binh.
9. How to book a motorbike or bicycle in Ninh Binh?
-
- You can search and book motorbike / bicycle in Ninh Binh or other site in Vietnam online on Bikesbooking ➜.
10. Where you can go and travel from Ninh Binh?
-
- There are various travel routes in northern Vietnam. You can travel from Ninh Binh to Sapa via Hanoi, or you can travel by bus to Halong Bay. Halong Bay is one of the most visited tourist sites in northern Vietnam.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Vinh to Ninh Binh
Traveling from Vinh into the Ninh Binh region gives you a wonderful transition from coastal landscapes to serene river valleys and limestone karst scenery. Even though the distance isn’t huge, planning your time and activities well can make this leg of your journey much more memorable.
Timing Your Arrival
Try to arrive in Ninh Binh with at least one afternoon of daylight left, so you can walk or cycle through the rice fields and get a feel for the countryside without rushing straight to your accommodation. Early light is also great for photos of peaceful river scenes and reflections in the water.
Cash & Local Purchases
Carry some local currency in smaller denominations once you reach Ninh Binh. Many local eateries, market stalls, and small souvenir shops prefer cash and may not accept cards, especially in more rural areas or when taking boat tours.
Explore Beyond the Obvious
While the iconic river caves and boat rides are worth it, take time for lesser‑known experiences like cycling quiet village roads at sunrise to see farmers at work or stopping at a local tea house for a refreshing break amid rice fields.
Stay Hydrated & Prepared
The weather here can shift quickly — mornings are cooler, but midday heat and humidity are strong, especially if you plan on exploring on foot or by bike. Pack water, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring nature and outdoor activities, but the region has its own charm in every season. During wetter months, landscapes become lush green and dramatic, though some paths can be slippery or muddy.
Photography & Sunlight
If photography matters to you, aim for early morning or late afternoon excursions. Soft light at these times beautifully highlights limestone peaks, rice paddies, and river reflections, and also helps avoid harsh midday sun.
Respect Local Culture
Temples, pagodas and rural villages around Ninh Binh are active community spaces — dress modestly when visiting shrines and remain respectful around people at work or prayer. A small gift of thanks or smile goes a long way with local hosts.
Tip: Tours, river trips and guided cave excursions in Ninh Binh can be booked in advance, which helps secure your preferred time — especially useful on weekends and peak holiday periods when popular routes fill up quickly.