Ninh Binh is often referred to as the “Halong Bay on Land” due to its stunning natural scenery of towering limestone mountains and tranquil rivers. It offers a peaceful and rural atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience a more authentic and traditional side of Vietnam.

There are also many historical and cultural attractions in the area, such as ancient temples and pagodas, providing a unique blend of natural and cultural experiences.

There are three main options to travel from Hue to Ninh Binh:

  1. By Train: Take a train from Hue to Ninh Binh, which involves a transfer at Dong Hoi. The journey takes around 12 hours.
  2. By Bus: Take a bus from Hue to Ninh Binh, which takes around 10-11 hours.
  3. By Private Car: Rent a private car or book a private transfer from Hue to Ninh Binh, which takes around 8-9 hours.
Cheapest

Bus

Fastest

Private car

Recommended

Train

How to get From Hue to Ninh Binh

Your options for traveling From Hue to Ninh Binh

Train

To travel from Hue to Ninh Binh by train, you can take a train from Hue Railway Station to Ninh Binh Railway Station. There are both regular and express trains available, and the journey takes around 10-12 hours depending on the type of train. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability.

Pros
  • Train travel is generally safe and comfortable.
  • The train journey from Hue to Ninh Binh offers scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside.
  • Trains have restrooms and food and beverage services on board.
Cons
  • Train schedules may not be as flexible as other modes of transportation.
  • Train stations may be located far from your final destination, requiring additional transportation.
  • Delays and cancellations can occur, potentially affecting your travel plans.

Bus

To get from Hue to Ninh Binh by bus, you can take a bus from Hue to Hanoi, and then transfer to another bus or take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. There are several bus companies that offer daily services from Hue to Hanoi, including The Sinh Tourist, Hoang Long, and Queen Cafe. The journey takes around 12 hours and costs between 200,000 and 300,000 VND (9-13 USD). From Hanoi, you can take a local bus or a taxi to Ninh Binh, which is around 100 km south of Hanoi.

Pros
  • Cheaper than other options.
  • Buses run frequently throughout the day.
  • Can be a good way to meet other travelers.
Cons
  • Longer travel time compared to other options.
  • Buses can be crowded and uncomfortable.
  • Possible issues with safety and security of personal belongings.

Private car

To get from Hue to Ninh Binh by private car, you can hire a car or taxi service in Hue. The journey takes approximately 10 hours, and you can choose to take the Ho Chi Minh Highway or the coastal route. It's also possible to arrange for a private driver to take you directly to your destination in Ninh Binh.

Pros
  • Flexibility to make stops along the way and set your own schedule.
  • Can be faster and more comfortable than taking public transportation.
  • Ability to travel with a larger group or with more luggage.
Cons
  • Can be more expensive than taking public transportation.
  • Requires driving in Vietnam, which can be challenging for some drivers.
  • Responsibility for finding parking and navigating unfamiliar roads.

FAQ about traveling From Hue to Ninh Binh

Yes, Ninh Binh is definitely worth a visit! It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including limestone mountains, rivers, caves, and rice paddies, which make it a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boating. Ninh Binh also has a rich cultural heritage, with historic temples, pagodas, and ruins to explore.
There is no airport in Ninh Binh, so it is not possible to take a flight directly from Hue to Ninh Binh. The closest airport is in Hanoi, which is about a 2-3 hour drive from Ninh Binh. From Hue, you can take a flight to Hanoi and then continue by bus, train or private car to Ninh Binh.
Yes, there are several places worth seeing on the way from Hue to Ninh Binh if you’re driving by private car, such as: Thanh Toan Bridge: an ancient and picturesque bridge in the countryside of Hue. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning karst scenery and boat tours. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: the former capital of Vietnam with historic temples and ruins. Tam Coc: another beautiful karst landscape with boat tours and biking trails. These are just a few examples, as the route between Hue and Ninh Binh is quite scenic and there are many other interesting stops along the way.
The cost of traveling from Hue to Ninh Binh by private car can vary depending on factors such as the type of car, distance, and additional services. Generally, it can cost anywhere from $80 to $150 for a one-way trip. However, it’s recommended to check with different car rental companies to get a better estimate.
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