Experience the Authentic Route: Taking the Train from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Halong Bay is famous as a tourist destination. With rolling mountains reflecting in the clear blue water. This place is favored by nature for its magnificent and poetic landscapes that are worth visiting once in a lifetime.

Halong Bay is in Quang Ninh Province, located in Northern Vietnam. There are many ways to get to Halong Bay, but the simplest and safest way is to choose the train from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. This trip will surprise you with the beautiful roads of this place.

Halong Bay with its beautiful landscapes is a place you should visit once in your life

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and limestone karsts. Experience the wonders of Halong Bay through a Halong Bay cruise, be it an overnight cruise or day tour. Discover Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, enjoy the beauty of the bay on a day trip. Choose the best time to visit and find the perfect option for your budget and preferences.

Hanoi to Halong Bay Map

Halong Bay, situated in the northeastern region of Vietnam, is conveniently located around 165 km away from the bustling capital city of Hanoi. When traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay, you have various transportation options such as a shuttle bus, private car, private taxi, luxury bus, and luxury limousine.

To travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay in the fastest way, there are two options available. Firstly, you can take a flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Van Don International Airport. This is a convenient and time-saving option.

Alternatively, you can choose to take a shuttle bus or a luxury bus by purchasing bus tickets through shuttle bus companies. Another option is to take a local bus from the bus stations in Hanoi to Bai Chay Bus Station. These buses are provided by various bus companies and operators, offering affordable bus tickets.

Additionally, you can consider taking a train from Hanoi to Halong Bay. If you choose to travel by train from Hanoi to Halong Bay, your journey will commence from Hanoi station and culminate at Halong station, with a travel duration of approximately 6-7 hours. Although please note that the train service from Yen Vien Station to Halong Station is currently suspended. Instead, you can take a train from Hanoi Station to Hai Phong Station to reach Halong. With such a wide range of transportation choices, you can easily find a suitable and convenient method to explore the beauty of Halong Bay.

To travel from the bus station, train station, or Halong City to visit Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island, you have various transportation options available. You can choose to hire a shuttle bus, luxury bus, local bus, private car, or private taxi for your transportation needs. These options provide flexibility and convenience in getting around and exploring the beautiful destinations of Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island. Whether you prefer a shared mode of transport or a more personalized experience, these transportation options cater to different preferences and budgets.

From Hanoi to Halong Bay, you can travel by many different means

Read More: When is the best time to cruise Vietnam Halong bay? Find Out Now!

About Hanoi to Halong Bay Train and reverse

Nowadays, traveling is easy. You can buy ticket online and arrive at the station before the train runs to best prepare. For a trip with a specific schedule, you can choose a round-trip ticket both at the time of departure and return to avoid the possibility of running out of tickets, or forgetting to book tickets,...

Traveling by train will bring you many interesting experiences

Read More: Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay - Enjoying Its Ideal Climate

Timetable and cost of trains from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Now we will provide you with complete information, schedule, ticket prices, and necessary procedures when traveling from Hanoi to Halong by train. Let's get started together.

The expense of the train from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

The ticket price will range from 3 to 5 dollars, depending on the type of seat you choose (soft seat or hard seat).

• The ticket price includes insurance.
• The price may change according to some conditions: the time of the ticket purchase, the object of the train, and the position of the carriage,...

Traveling by train is not too expensive

Read More: Top 15 Best Things to Do in Ha Long Bay - Exploring Its Beauty

Issues to keep in mind when booking tickets

Time and fee for ticket exchange:

• Change tickets: Individual tickets are exchanged 24 hours or more before the train runs; the fee is 20,000 VND per ticket; less than 24 hours will not change tickets; ticket exchange is not applicable for group tickets.
• Individual tickets: When paying tickets before the train runs, the fee is 10% of the fare; from 4 hours to less than 24 hours, the fee is 20% of the fare; under 4 hours, do not pay the ticket.
• Collective tickets: When purchasing tickets before the train's departure, the fee is 10% of the fare; from 72 hours or more, the fee is 20% of the fare; from 24 hours to less than 72 hours, the fee is 0% of the fare; and under 24 hours, no ticket is purchased.

Form of ticket payment.

• When passengers buy tickets and pay online via the railway's ticketing website, ticketing app, or train ticket purchasing applications of third parties, they can pay for their tickets online through the ticketing websites of the railway industry or go directly to the station.
• When passengers buy tickets in other forms and want to change tickets, return the passenger's ticket directly to the station, together with the original identification document of the train passenger or the person who bought the ticket, for the railway staff. At the same time, the information on the train pass must match the passenger's identification document.

Read More: A Romantic Getaway: Ha Long Bay Cruise for Couples

Train timetable from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Schedule 

Arrival at Hanoi station or Hai Phong station. The travel time frames that you can choose from are:

The train passes through the station: Ha Noi - Gia Lam - Hai Duong - Phu Thai - Thuong Thuong Ly - Hai Phong

• 6:00 AM - 8:25 AM

The train passes through the station: Ha Noi - Long Bien - Gia Lam - Cam Giang - Phu Thai - Thuong Ly - Hai Phong

•  9:20 AM - 12:00 PM
•  3:15 PM - 6:00 PM
•  6:10 PM - 8:55 PM

 Each trip will take an average of 2.25–2.45 hours.

There are many routes to go from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Each time frame will correspond to a different schedule. Therefore, you need to base your choice on the travel needs of the trip to choose the right time frame. The same applies to your other journeys when traveling by train.

Read More: Experience the Ultimate in Halong Bay Cruise Luxury

Disadvantages and Advantages of the Hanoi-Halong Railway

Advantages

Cost-effective and secure: Opting for the train is a budget-friendly choice, with tickets typically priced around US$4 per person for a one-way journey. Compared to shuttle buses or taxis, train fares are significantly cheaper.

Safety assured: The railway offers a secure mode of transportation as it has an exclusive and separate route, reducing the risk of accidents. You can embark on your journey with peace of mind, knowing that safety is prioritized.

Scenic delight: The train's leisurely pace allows you to savor the picturesque landscapes along the railway route. From Hanoi to Halong, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of countryside vistas, including serene rivers and charming rice fields. Additionally, the train attracts many locals, providing an opportunity to engage with them, listen to their stories, and gain insights into their daily lives. These unique encounters will create lasting memories.

Ideal for budget-conscious travelers: The train is a perfect choice for backpackers and tourists seeking to optimize their budget. With affordable fares and a chance to immerse in local experiences, it's an excellent option for those with limited funds or a relaxed itinerary.

Traveling by train is unique and new for those who want to see the scenery

If you don't mind enjoying sightseeing and relaxation, this safe means of transport can provide you with a beautiful view along the way. Only traveling by train can make you discover new lands with majestic mountains, endless fields, or vast seas like Vietnam.

Disadvantages

Time-consuming: Opting for the train as your mode of transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay is the lengthiest option. If you plan a short trip of one or two days, it's advisable to consider other means of travel. The 7-hour train journey may restrict your participation in and enjoyment of activities in Halong. However, if you're seeking a train experience, consider a longer trip lasting at least 4 days.

Outdated facilities: The train to Halong Bay is less popular compared to other modes of transport, primarily attracting local traders. Consequently, the train's facilities are not regularly maintained or upgraded. Additionally, modern conveniences like air-conditioning, free WiFi, and LCD screens are not available onboard. The only seating option is hard seats, which may become uncomfortable during long hours of travel.

Limited daily schedule: There is only one train per day from Hanoi to Halong, limiting flexibility in choosing departure times. Furthermore, the train departs from Hanoi in the early morning, which may be inconvenient for some passengers.

Additional transport costs: The Hanoi-Halong train departs from Yen Vien Station, approximately 11km away from the Hanoi Old Quarter. This necessitates arranging taxi transfers between your hotel and the train station. Similarly, you will need to arrange your own transportation from Halong Station to the cruise ports and vice versa.

How to book a train from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Booking train tickets from Hanoi to Halong Bay has become hassle-free with the availability of online booking platforms. Whether through train ticket booking applications on your phone or computer, or via agents with quick online payment, the process is now optimized for convenience. The advantage of taking the train lies in its simplicity: just present your ticket, find your seat, enjoy a nap, and disembark at the destination station before heading back home.

The process of booking train tickets is quite simple and involves the following steps:

1. Visit the homepage of Vietnam Railways at https://dsvn.vn/ and select the language at the top right of the page. 

Switch to your language here

Then choose the pickup point, destination, mode of transportation, time

2. Then fill in the appropriate information in the box.

• From: Type the place you want to depart from and select the Vietnamese name that appears in the list (e.g., Hanoi).
•  To: Type the destination and select the Vietnamese name that appears in the list (e.g., Halong).

• Additional information: Choose between one-way and round-trip travel.
• If "Return" is selected, the customer must enter the return date and time information.

3. When you click "Search," the system switches to a screen displaying detailed information about seats on each train for customers to choose from.

4. Choose a place.

Based on the customer's search criteria, the system will give a list of trains departing on the day of the passenger's departure. The system selects by default the train with the closest time compared to the search time. Customers can select other trains available on the screen. The selected train will be changed to green to distinguish it from the remaining trains.

If you click on a car on the train, a map of the seats in the car will be displayed below. You choose the empty seat you want to sit on. Tickets for this seat will be added to your cart and are awaiting payment.

Choose where you want to sit

5. Then click 'Buy Tickets' to go to the next page of booking information.

6. Enter passenger information.

• Enter passenger information, including full name, ID or passport number, date of birth, and customer object.

Note: The information needs to be entered correctly, as this information will be printed on the ticket and can be checked upon boarding.

• Enter booking information: Your full name, ID number/passport, email, and mobile number correctly.

• Enter invoice information (if you need an invoice).

Remember to fill in the information correctly and completely

7. Choose the appropriate payment method (prepaid or postpaid).

 If the transaction is successful, you will receive an email notification saying "successful ticket purchase". After some time, as prescribed by Vietnam Railways, you can bring your ID card to the station and provide a reservation code to print tickets and get train tickets.

8. After booking, you can check by accessing the Reservation Information section.

To look up information, please enter exactly 3 details below.

After all, you can double-check your ticket if you want

Please note

According to the regulations of the Vietnam Railways Corporation, passengers whose identity documents match the information on their e-tickets are eligible to enter the boarding station. To ensure the interests of passengers and avoid buying fake tickets or tickets that are not compliant with regulations, you can check your e-ticket by filling out the information below.

If you need more information, please visit here for more details.

1. Instructions for implementing regulations on ticket purchase and online payment on the website are available here; see details here.

2. Video tutorials

• Instructions to buy tickets and pay online
• Instructions for buying tickets and paying postpaid
• Instructions for queueing registration
• Instructions on the ticket payment process

Customer Support Call Center of Vietnam Railways

• Phone: 19006469
• Email: support1@dsvn.vn
•  support2@dsvn.vn

Take a shuttle bus from Hai Phong to Halong Bay

Travel conveniently between Hai Phong and Halong Bay by choosing a shuttle bus as your mode of transportation. The distance spanning Hai Phong City to Halong City is around 40km, and the journey typically takes about 45-60 minutes via the modern Expressway.

Shuttle buses offer an excellent transfer option between the two cities, with a range of vehicles available, from luxurious 9-seat shuttles to spacious 40-seat coaches. For a seamless door-to-door experience, we highly recommend opting for a luxury shuttle bus. These vehicles provide modern amenities such as air conditioning, comfortable seating with massaging chairs, free WiFi, mineral water, and charging ports for your mobile devices.

You can easily book your Hai Phong to Halong shuttle bus ticket with reputable transport companies. The travel schedule is flexible, with buses departing hourly from 5:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m every day. The ticket price for a one-way journey is approximately US$ 10 per person.

Shuttle buses typically arrive in the Halong City Center area. However, if you plan to embark on a cruise from Halong International Port or Tuan Chau International Port, you may need to arrange a taxi for transportation to the port.

FAQs about Hanoi to Halong Bay by train

Should I book train tickets in advance?

While you can purchase tickets at the train station, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance to save time and avoid the risk of sold-out tickets!

What other modes of transportation are available from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

In addition to the train, there are several other transportation options available from Hanoi to Halong Bay. These include shuttle buses, private cars, private taxis, luxury buses, and even seaplanes or helicopters for a more luxurious and scenic journey.

What are the must-not-miss experiences when traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

One of the unmissable experiences when traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay is taking a Halong Bay cruise. It offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of the bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and pristine turquoise waters. On a Halong Bay cruise, you can engage in various activities such as kayaking, swimming, visiting stunning caves, and enjoying stunning sunsets. The cruise provides a comfortable and luxurious way to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Halong Bay and create unforgettable memories.

Paradise Vietnam is one of the leading cruise companies in Halong Bay, offering a variety of Halong Bay cruises. With their exceptional services and stunning itineraries, they have become a top choice for travelers exploring Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island, and Lan Ha Bay. Experience the beauty of Halong Bay with Paradise Vietnam's unforgettable cruises.

Paradise Vietnam, one of the top cruise companies, offers a wide range of Halong Bay cruises including boat cruises, overnight cruises, cruise packages, and day tours. With their excellent services, competitive prices, and positive reviews from many travelers, Paradise Vietnam is highly recommended as the best option for exploring Halong Bay. Discover the different types of cruises they offer and find the best fit for your journey with the following information.

Above are some detailed instructions for you when taking the train from Hanoi to Hai Phong. Or you can apply anywhere. If you have any problems, please contact the station's direct information or https://paradisevietnam.com/. I hope you have a smooth trip and lots of fun.