What is the schedule for the Hanoi to Halong Bay train, how long does the journey take, and is there still a direct train available? These are common questions among travelers looking for a budget-friendly, safe, and scenic way to reach Halong Bay. In this article, Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong will provide the latest updates and essential travel information for this route.
Is There a Hanoi to Halong Bay Train?
Currently, there are no passenger trains operating directly between Hanoi and Halong Bay.
In the past, there was a train service running on the Yen Vien – Halong route as part of the Yen Vien – Cai Lan railway project. However, due to low passenger demand, the service was completely suspended around 2020 – 2021.
Recently, construction on the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway project has officially begun. However, the new railway line is expected to be completed and operational by 2028.
While waiting for the new railway to open, travelers can still take a train from Hanoi to Hai Phong, then continue to Halong Bay by limousine bus, coach, or taxi. The total travel time for this combined journey is approximately 4 – 5 hours.
Hanoi to Halong Bay Distance & Travel Map
The distance from Hanoi to Halong Bay ranges from approximately 150 – 170 km, depending on the route you take. As there is currently no direct Hanoi to Halong Bay train, travelers choosing this option will need to split the journey into two stages:
- Hanoi → Hai Phong: around 102 km by train.
- Hai Phong → Halong Bay: around 50 – 55 km by bus, limousine, or taxi.
Google Maps: Here
Hanoi to Halong Bay Train Route Explained
If you choose to travel by train from Hanoi to Hai Phong and then continue by road to Halong Bay, the journey will be divided into two stages:
Stage 1: Hanoi to Hai Phong by Train
- Travel time: Approximately 2.5 to nearly 3 hours, depending on the specific train and the number of stops along the route.
- Typical route:
Most trains from Hanoi to Hai Phong currently stop at the following stations: Hanoi – Gia Lam – Hai Duong – Phu Thai – Thuong Ly – Hai Phong.
Some services may also stop at Long Bien or Cam Giang before reaching Hai Phong.
- Popular departure schedules:
- 6:00 AM – 8:25 AM
- 9:20 AM – 12:00 PM
- 3:15 PM – 6:00 PM
- 6:10 PM – 8:55 PM
Stage 2: From Hai Phong to Halong Bay
Traveling from Hai Phong city center to Halong Bay is now very convenient thanks to the Hai Phong – Halong expressway. This part of the journey is relatively quick, taking only around 1 to 1.5 hours.
From Hai Phong, travelers can choose from several popular transportation options to reach Halong Bay:
- Limousine Van: Services run frequently, usually every hour. Ticket prices range from approximately 150,000 – 230,000 VND per person. Popular operators include Hoang Phu, Hai Phong Travel, Quang Muoi, and Son Hai.
- Regular Coach / Public Bus: You can travel to Lac Long Bus Station in Hai Phong and take a bus to Quang Ninh, getting off at Bai Chay Bus Station in Halong. This is the most budget-friendly option, costing around 50,000 – 70,000 VND per person, though waiting times may be longer compared to limousine services.
- Private Car or Taxi: This option is ideal for families, groups, or travelers with a lot of luggage. Prices typically range from 500,000 – 700,000 VND for a 4 – 7 seat vehicle.
Overall, the total travel time for the full Hanoi – Hai Phong – Halong Bay journey is approximately 3.5 to over 4 hours, excluding waiting time for transfers between the train and road transport in Hai Phong.
Is the Hanoi to Halong Bay Train Worth Taking?
The Hanoi to Halong Bay train is not the most ideal option if you want to save time, as the combined train-and-road journey usually takes around 3.5 – 4 hours. However, if you enjoy slow travel, scenic views, and budget-friendly transportation, it can still be an interesting experience.
Advantages
- Affordable cost: The combined price of train tickets and connecting buses is usually 3 – 4 times cheaper than hiring a private car or taking a luxury limousine service.
- High level of safety: Train travel is generally stable and less affected by traffic congestion or weather conditions.
- Scenic countryside views: The route passes through the beautiful Northern Delta region, featuring rice fields, rivers, and traditional Vietnamese villages.
- Local cultural experience: Traveling by train offers a closer look at local life, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy a slower and quieter travel style.
Disadvantages
- No direct train to Halong Bay: Travelers must transfer from Hai Phong to Halong Bay by limousine, coach, or taxi.
- Longer travel time compared to direct limousine services: A direct limousine from Hanoi to Halong Bay usually takes only 2.5 – 3 hours, while the train-and-transfer option often takes 3.5 – 4 hours or longer.
- Limited flexibility: There are not many train departures each day, so travelers need to plan carefully to match connecting transportation.
- Basic onboard facilities: Hanoi – Hai Phong trains mainly serve standard transportation needs, so the amenities are more basic compared to premium limousine services.
Other Ways to Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay
If you prefer not to take the Hanoi to Halong Bay train, there are currently five popular transportation options to reach Halong Bay. Depending on your budget and travel preferences, you can choose one of the following methods:
Limousine Van
This is one of the most popular choices thanks to its convenience and fast travel time.
- Travel time: 2 – 2.5 hours via the Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway (CT.5B)
- Ticket price: Around 200,000 – 300,000 VND per person
- Highlights: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off service from Hanoi city center to hotels in Halong Bay or Bai Chay
Coach Bus
A suitable option for travelers looking to save money and have flexible departure times.
- Travel time: 3 – 4 hours depending on the route and traffic
- Ticket price: Around 120,000 – 170,000 VND per person
- Departure points: My Dinh, Giap Bat, and Gia Lam bus stations
- Highlights: Frequent departures every 15–30 minutes. However, buses usually stop at Bai Chay Bus Station, so you may need an additional taxi ride to your hotel.
Private Car or Taxi
Ideal for families, groups, or travelers carrying a lot of luggage.
- Price: Approximately 1,200,000 – 1,800,000 VND per trip for a 4 – 7 seat vehicle
- Highlights: Flexible departure times, optional stops along the way, and comfortable door-to-door service
Seaplane
Perfect for travelers who want to admire Halong Bay from above.
- Flight time: Around 45 minutes departing from Noi Bai International Airport
- Ticket price: From 4,000,000 – 9,000,000 VND per person depending on the season and flight time
- Highlights: Operated by Hai Au Aviation, this experience offers stunning aerial views of Halong Bay’s limestone islands from an altitude of 150 – 2,000 meters.
Motorbike
Best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy road trips.
- Route: Usually follows National Highway 18 (Hanoi – Bac Ninh – Chi Linh – Halong)
- Travel time: Around 4 – 5 hours
- Note: This route has many large trucks and coaches, so it requires confident riding skills and strict adherence to traffic rules. It is not recommended for inexperienced riders.
Important note
Many Halong Bay cruise operators such as Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong already provide round-trip transfer services from Hanoi. If you have booked a cruise tour, it is recommended to check with your cruise operator in advance for pickup arrangements.
What to Do in Halong Bay?
Ha Long is a travel paradise featuring highlight activities: bay cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves (Sung Sot, Thien Cung). Enjoy Sun World Halong Complex, relax at Bai Chay Beach, and visit the iconic Quang Ninh Museum. Don’t miss out on local specialties like squid cake, stone crab, and fresh seafood
Explore Halong Bay by Cruise
A cruise experience is considered the most iconic and worthwhile activity when visiting Halong Bay. Travelers can choose between a day cruise or an overnight cruise to admire breathtaking sunsets and sunrises among thousands of limestone islands.
Many cruise itineraries also include activities such as:
- Kayaking through Luon Cave and peaceful lagoons.
- Visiting famous caves such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave.
- Swimming at Ti Top Island or Soi Sim Island.
- Enjoying fresh seafood cuisine onboard the cruise.
Enjoy Entertainment at Bai Chay Tourist Area
Bai Chay is home to many modern entertainment attractions suitable for families and young travelers. Popular highlights include:
- Sun World Halong Complex featuring Dragon Park, Typhoon Water Park, and the Queen Cable Car
- Bai Chay Beach, a spacious artificial beach perfect for swimming and seaside walks
- Halong Old Quarter, inspired by the architecture of Hoi An and Hanoi Ancient Town
Discover Local Culture & Scenic Check-in Spots
If you enjoy photography and cultural experiences, consider visiting:
- Quang Ninh Museum with its striking modern black-glass architecture
- Tran Quoc Nghien Coastal Road, ideal for walking and sightseeing
- Bai Tho Mountain for panoramic views of the city and Halong Bay
Experience Halong Bay at Night
Halong Bay becomes lively in the evening with many relaxing activities such as:
- Exploring Halong Night Market
- Enjoying cafés or beachside bars
- Admiring the illuminated Bai Chay Bridge at night
Why Is a Cruise the Best Way to Explore Halong Bay?
Rather than passing through Halong Bay in a matter of hours, an overnight voyage invites guests to experience the heritage seascape at its natural rhythm – slowly, intimately, and with a depth that day excursions rarely allow.
At Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong, the journey is not measured by how many sites are visited, but by how deeply each moment is felt.
Guests awaken to soft morning light spilling across their private balcony, with limestone silhouettes emerging quietly from the mist. Days unfold gently through curated experiences — from kayaking across tranquil waters and discovering secluded corners of the bay, to moments of stillness that allow the landscape to reveal its quieter beauty.
Life onboard reflects the refined spirit of Emperor Bao Dai. Fine dining at Can Chanh Restaurant becomes a royal ritual, where each course is thoughtfully presented. Traditional Ngu Than ao dai prepared in-suite invites guests to step into Vietnam’s cultural elegance, while discreet butler service ensures every detail unfolds effortlessly.
There is no need to rush, repack, or follow crowded schedules.
Only time to slow down, breathe deeply, and discover Halong Bay as it was meant to be experienced – as a living heritage, and as a memory that lingers long after the voyage ends.
Whether you choose the Hanoi to Halong Bay train or other transportation options, the ultimate goal remains a memorable getaway at this UNESCO World Heritage site. For travelers seeking a truly luxurious experience, Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong is a premier choice. Inspired by the royal lifestyle of Emperor Bao Dai, the cruise offers exceptional privacy, bespoke service, and refined dining experiences in the heart of Halong Bay. Contact us at (+84) 88 603 66 68 to plan your dream journey today!