Top 05 Best Ways To Travel From Hanoi To Ninh Binh

Luckily for those travelers who would like to visit Ninh Binh where is the sanctuary, there are many ways to go from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.

1. By Train

Train is by far the most popular option of transport as it can provide you with comfort and relaxation, without having to worry about the crazy Vietnam traffic. Not only that, it is also great for those who suffer from motion sickness as the train ride is much smoother than that with a car.

Thong Nhat Train

Even with significant enhancements in cargo quality, the train experience still manages to conjure the sensation of embarking on a journey through Vietnam reminiscent of the post-Doi Moi era, much like the adventures shared by Anthony Bourdain. The timeless melody of the classic diesel engine and the picturesque vistas that unfurl before your eyes are quintessentially Vietnamese, an experience truly unique to this enchanting land on your trip to Ninh Binh.

When choosing a train, remember that most have similar quality and routes. With six trains operating across different time frames from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you can easily find a schedule that suits your preferences. The journey covers approximately 115 km of railway, taking between 2 hours and 12 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes.

To cater to a diverse range of customers, ticket prices vary, ranging from 130,000 VND (around 5 USD) for a standard AC hard seat to approximately 500,000 VND (about 20 USD) for a VIP single room for two (excluding the cost of additional seats).

• Train label: SE7

• Depart from Hanoi: 06h00 a.m
• Arrived at Ninh Binh: 08h14 a.m
• Price range: 123,000 VND - 237,000 VND (5.04 USD - 9.72 USD)

• Train label: SE5

• Depart from Hanoi: 09h00 a.m
• Arrived at Ninh Binh: 11h17 a.m
• Price range: 112,000 VND - 237,000 VND (4.59 USD - 9.72 USD)

• Train label: SE35

• Depart from Hanoi: 13h10 p.m
• Arrived at Ninh Binh: 15h35 p.m
• Price range: 160,000 VND - 232,000 VND (6.56 USD - 9.51 USD)

• Train label: SE9

• Depart from Hanoi: , 14h30 p.m
• Arrived at Ninh Binh: 17h13 p.m
• Price range: 110,000 VND - 233,000 VND (4.51 USD - 9.55 USD)

• Train label: SE3

• Depart from Hanoi: 19h30 p.m
• Arrived at Ninh Binh: 21h44 p.m
• Price range: 129,000 VND - 183,000 VND (5.29 USD - 7.50 USD)

• Train label: SE19

• Depart from Hanoi: 20h10 p.m
• Arrived at Ninh Binh: 22h22 p.m
• Price range: 130,000 VND - 443,000 VND, (5.33 USD - 18.16 USD)

These trains only depart once per day so even though you can buy the ticket at the station, we recommend that you pre-order them through the Vietnamese railway corporation’s website: https://dsvn.vn/#/ or through our travel agency.

>> Take a look at Top 10 things to do in Ninh Binh

2. By Private Car

Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by renting a private car is a wise choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient journey. Opting for a private car rental grants you a remarkable level of freedom, allowing you to make impromptu stops wherever you desire along the way. Moreover, you have the flexibility to select the ideal vehicle to match your preferences, whether it be a compact car, sedan, SUV, or even a luxurious model.

Ninh Binh private car

The approximate car trip to Ninh Binh typically ranges between 2 to 2.5 hours, contingent upon traffic conditions and the specific route undertaken. The most frequently traversed route is via the direct connection of National Highway 1A, linking the two cities seamlessly. Alternatively, you can opt for the Thang Long Highway (Highway 1B), which offers a faster and more modern pathway. To ensure the most suitable route based on your starting point and destination, it is advisable to utilize navigation applications or consult a reliable map.

In terms of cost, this type of rental generally amounts to around 2.5 million VND (100 to 150 USD). It is important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as rental duration, vehicle type, and the specific company or service chosen.

3. With Shuttle Bus

An Phu Quy Bus

A more adventurous yet potentially chaotic alternative to transport Hanoi to Ninh Binh is to opt for travel by shuttle bus. Ticket prices can vary quite significantly. On average, you can expect to pay between 80,000 to 150,000 VND, approximately 3.5 USD to 6.5 USD per person. While this option is somewhat more budget-friendly than the train, it does come with the occasional challenge of dealing with crowded buses.

Cuong Hung Bus

Securing a ticket is a relatively straightforward process, with major stations like Giap Bat or Nuoc Ngam accessible via city buses. However, it's essential to act swiftly, as the demand for seats can be high. With numerous buses operating throughout the day, it's a bit of a race against time, and a touch of luck might come in handy to secure your spot for your Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi.

Dong Chin Bus

4. Limousine

Trang An Limousine

In contrast to bus hopping, the limousine option offers a more heightened level of comfort and quality for your Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi. A premium choice suitable for small groups, providing both comfort and the freedom to travel at your own pace. Equipped with Wi-Fi, luxurious seating, and ample legroom, it ensures the utmost relaxation and privacy, thanks to the complete separation of the driver's cabin from the passenger area.

Binh Minh Limousine

When you opt for a limousine, many companies offer a convenient pick-up and drop-off service from the Old Quarter, eliminating the need to travel to stations. Prices typically range from 250,000 VND to 300,000 VND (approximately $10.24 to $12.28), depending on the specific company of your choosing.

Duy Khang Limousine

Below are our choices of reputable companies that can surely satisfied your needs:

• Xe Trang An

• Web: https://xetrangan.vn/

• Duy Khang Limousine

• Web: https://xeduykhang.vn/

• Binh Minh Limousine

• Web: https://binhminhlimousine.com.vn/

>> Take a look at: Top 07 best luxury Hotel in Ninh Binh

5. By Motor-bike

The Vietnamese are famous for manythings: Their food, their culture, their history. But nowaday it is the Vietnamese traffic that makes the foreigners confused and flabbergasted, mainly because of the sheer number of scooters on the street at any given moment.

Tigit Motorbikes

This wild card is getting more and more popular among the young Vietnamese and the foreign traveler as it gives you the freedom to visit wherever your heart desires. Up the mountains, down the rice fields, the feeling of true liberty is an experience on its own. While it is quite tiring and unusual, travel by motor does give you a more immersive experience and a better view of the people’s life and the changes of towns as you pass by on your trip to Ninh Binh. The true Vietnamese experience as we like to call it.

Rentals cost between 150,000 to 400,000 VND ( 6.15 USD - 16.40 USD ) per day. The journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes only 2.5 hours, allowing for further exploration in the province. Prior motorbike experience and a valid license are strongly recommended due to the inherent risks. Returning the motorbike may require a trip back to Hanoi. Here is a list of reputable rental companies and their websites for your convenience:

Opting for this choice may require a journey back to Hanoi to return the motorbike. Below, you'll find a curated list of companies and their websites, recognized for their trustworthiness:

• Tigit Motorbikes

• Web: https://www.tigitmotorbikes.com/

• Style Motorbikes

• Web: https://stylemotorbikes.com/

• Rent A Bike Vietnam

• Web: https://rentabikevn.com/

• Motorvina

• Web: https://motorvina.com/vi

While this is a great option to traverse Vietnam, it is not really the safest for the novice. So to compensate for this situation, we highly recommend that you ride with a Vietnamese guide.

>> It is advisable to refer to Ninh Binh Tam Coc cruise by Sampan.

6. Some tips for booking transport from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Here are some tips for booking your transport Hanoi to Ninh Binh. I hope these tips help you book your transport safely and easily.

• Book your transport in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. This will ensure that you have a guaranteed ride and avoid paying higher prices.
• Compare reviews of different providers before you book. This will help you choose a reputable company with good customer service.
• When booking a private car, agree on a price with the driver before you get in the car. This will help you avoid any disputes after your journey.
• Be aware of common scams. There have been reports of drivers overcharging tourists for rides from Hanoi to Ninh Binh To avoid this, be sure to agree on a price with the driver before you get in the car.
• If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, or if you have young children, consider booking a private car. Private cars are more comfortable and spacious than shuttle buses, and they offer more flexibility.
• If you are on a tight budget, consider taking the express bus. It is often the cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, but they are also the most crowded and uncomfortable
• Remember to check your bike and helmet thoroughly before renting.
• Download an offline map to make sure you can always know where you are since there are some places in Vietnam that do not have connections at all.
• Remember to follow the traffic rules.
• Don't forget to bring your license if you choose to rent your vehicle.

Numerous transportation choices await those traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, each catering to varying budgets, convenience levels, comfort preferences, and personal tastes. We trust that this guide has provided valuable insights, and we eagerly anticipate that your voyage to this breathtaking destination will unfold as a truly memorable and enchanting experience.

Bich Dong pagoda in Ninh Binh province

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>> Take a look at: Ninh Binh Travel Guide