There are several options for traveling from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay, including by bus, private car, or train. Once in the city of Hai Phong, you can take a ferry or speedboat to Cat Ba Island, where you can then access Lan Ha Bay by boat tour. The travel time can range from 2-4 hours depending on the mode of transportation chosen.

If you’re short on time, taking a private car or hiring a transfer service can be the fastest and most convenient option.

Cheapest

Bus

Fastest

Private car

Recommended

Bus

How to get From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your options for traveling From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Bus

To get from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay by bus, you can first take a bus from Hanoi to Hai Phong City, which takes around 2-3 hours depending on traffic.

From Hai Phong, you can take another bus to Cai Vieng Pier, where you can then catch a ferry or speedboat to Cat Ba Island. Once on Cat Ba Island, you can take a boat tour to explore the beautiful Lan Ha Bay.

It's important to note that bus schedules and routes may vary, so it's best to check with local travel agencies or bus companies to confirm the most up-to-date information.

The bus ticket from Hanoi to Hai Phong costs around 100,000 - 150,000 VND (4-6 USD) per person. From Hai Phong to Cai Vieng Pier, the bus fare is around 50,000 - 70,000 VND (2-3 USD) per person.

Pros
  • Cost: bus travel can be cheaper than private car
  • Flexibility: Buses run frequently throughout the day, offering flexibility with departure times
  • Environmentally friendly: Taking the bus is a more eco-friendly option compared to taking a private car or taxi.
Cons
  • Uncomfortable and cramped
  • Time-consuming
  • Limited space: Buses have limited space for luggage and personal belongings

Train

Although there is no train station directly in Lan Ha Bay, it is still possible to travel from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay by train. You can take a train from Hanoi to Hai Phong City, and then take a bus or taxi to the ferry or speedboat terminal to get to Cat Ba Island, which is located in Lan Ha Bay. From there, you can then take a boat tour to explore the stunning Lan Ha Bay.

Pros
  • Comfortable: Trains offer more legroom and spacious seats than buses or cars.
  • Scenic views: Train journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong City offers beautiful countryside views.
  • Convenient: Fixed train schedules make planning easier.
Cons
  • No direct route: Need to take bus or taxi from Hai Phong City to ferry or speedboat terminal for Cat Ba Island.
  • More expensive: Train travel is pricier than bus travel (depending on service class).
  • Limited schedules: There may be limited train schedules to Hai Phong City, reducing trip flexibility.

Private car

Taking a private car from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay can be a good option for those who prioritize convenience and comfort. The journey takes about 2.5-3 hours and the cost varies depending on the type of car and number of passengers. However, it is more expensive than taking a bus and may not offer as much flexibility in terms of schedule. Ultimately, it depends on your travel preferences and budget.

Pros
  • Comfortable: More comfortable and convenient than taking a bus or train.
  • Comfort: More comfortable than long bus or car rides
  • Speed: Faster than taking a bus or train.
  • Private experience

 

Cons
  • Cost: More expensive than taking a bus or train.
  • Traffic: Heavy traffic and road conditions may cause delays.

FAQ about traveling From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

The cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay is by taking a combination of bus and ferry. You can take a local bus from Hanoi to Hai Phong, then transfer to a ferry to reach Cat Ba Island, and finally take another local bus to reach Lan Ha Bay. While this option may take longer and require multiple transfers, it is generally more affordable than taking a private car or a speedboat.
Yes, it is definitely worth going to Lan Ha Bay. With its pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and stunning limestone cliffs, Lan Ha Bay offers a more tranquil and less crowded alternative to the nearby and more popular Ha Long Bay. You can also explore the many small islands and fishing villages in the area, and experience the local culture and cuisine. Overall, Lan Ha Bay is a must-see destination for anyone visiting northern Vietnam.
The cost of a private car from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay can vary depending on the type of car and the company you choose, but on average it can cost around 2,000,000 to 4,000,000 VND (approximately $85 to $170 USD) for a one-way trip. However, prices can be higher during peak travel season or if you book with a luxury car service. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different companies to find the best deal.
The distance from Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay is approximately 135 kilometers (84 miles).
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