Planning a trip from the scenic landscapes of Ninh Binh to the historic charm of Hoi An? This journey from North to Central Vietnam can be both scenic and straightforward with options that fit every type of traveler. This guide covers the best ways to travel the 700 kilometers (435 miles) between these two iconic destinations. Read on to find the best way to travel from Ninh Binh to Hoi An, complete with travel times, costs, and insider tips for a smooth and memorable trip.

4 Ways to Travel from Ninh Binh to Hoi An

There are 4 ways to cover the 700 kilometers (435 miles) from Ninh Binh to Hoi An: by bus (13 to 17 hours), train (14 hours 30 minutes to 18 hours 30 minutes), flight (5 hours 30 minutes), and private transfer. Here's a breakdown of the travel options, including popular operators, ticket prices, and essential details to help you pick the best journey. 

Ninh Binh to Hoi An Bus

Duration: 13 to 17 hours

Cost: Starting at $17 USD

Traveling by bus from Ninh Binh to Hoi An is a straightforward, budget-friendly option, though it’s also the longest in terms of travel time. With direct Ninh Binh to Hoi An sleeper buses available, you can save on both time and accommodation costs by booking an overnight bus. Prices start from $17 USD, and some reliable bus operators for this route are

Queen Cafe VIP Open Bus: Known for its evening departures, Queen Cafe offers a comfortable ride with spacious sleeper seats. Tickets start at $20 USD, and the bus arrives in Hoi An early the next morning.

Camel Travel: Camel Travel is another good choice if you want a bit more comfort during the journey. Their sleeper buses are clean, and you can book tickets for around $22 USD.

Booking Tips: For ease of booking, use platforms like BookAway, which offer multiple options for comparing fares and ensuring a hassle-free reservation experience. Book a few days in advance, especially in peak travel seasons, to secure a seat. Buses in Vietnam often stop for short breaks and meals, so you can stretch your legs during the trip.

Ninh Binh to Hoi An Train

Duration: 14h30m - 18h30m

Cost: From $27 USD

For those who enjoy a scenic, comfortable journey, the train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An is a solid choice. Though there is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Hoi An, you can travel to Da Nang by train and then continue to Hoi An by minibus or taxi. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Ninh Binh to Da Nang By train

Journey time: 13h30m - 16h30m

Cost: $27 USD

The train journey from Ninh Binh to Da Nang takes around 13h30m - 16h30m. The good thing is that most trains on this route run at night, so you won't be awake most of the time.

The 4-berth sleeper cabins offer more privacy and comfort, making them an ideal choice for a long journey, though 6-berth options are cheaper if you don’t mind sharing.

We recommend booking your tickets online via BookAway. Their site gives a clear idea of what you can expect and offers excellent customer service. If you're on the lookout for the best deals, you can sometimes find slightly cheaper tickets on Baolau.

Trains depart from Ninh Binh station in the city center. If you're coming from Tam Coc, you can take a cab to the station for around 120,000 VND (€4.76).

Step 2: Da Nang Station to Hoi An

Duration: 45m - 2h

Cost: Minibus tickets start at $4.50 USD, and taxis cost around $17 USD.

It takes about 1 to 2 hours by minibus or taxi to get from Da Nang railway station to the center of Hoi An.

After arriving in Da Nang, continue to Hoi An by minibus or taxi. The minibus is an affordable option with regular service from Da Nang Railway Station to Hoi An’s center, while taxis provide more flexibility and drop you directly at your hotel. Minibus tickets can be booked in advance on platforms like BookAway to ensure a convenient pickup.

Minibuses are available daily from 07:00 to 21:00 with drop-off in the center of Hoi An.

If you prefer to be dropped off at your hotel door, taxis are also available from 440,000 VND ($17).

Ninh Binh to Hoi An Flight

Travel time: 5h30m

Cost: VND 1,530,000 ($58 USD)

For the fastest travel option, you can fly from Hanoi to Da Nang and take a short shuttle bus or taxi to Hoi An. Though neither Ninh Binh nor Hoi An has an airport, this option involves a short transfer to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport, where regular flights depart to Da Nang. But if you still want to fly, then keep reading for a step-by-step guide.

TIP: If you do decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon offset tax to reduce your impact on the environment.

Step 1: Ninh Binh to Hanoi Noi Bai Airport by Minibus

Duration: 3 hours

Cost: 475,000 VND ($18 USD)

The most convenient way to get from Ninh Binh to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport is by direct minibus. You can buy your ticket at any minibus office in Ninh Binh or book online at BookAway and wait to be picked up at your hotel.

Alternatively, you can opt for a van to downtown Hanoi and switch to an express bus to the airport. Combined fares start at 220,000 VND ($8) and travel time is 3.5 to 4 hours. You can save around 255,000 VND ($9) by taking this alternative route. But bear in mind that it will take you a little longer, depending on the availability of your connecting bus. We recommend this option only if you can leave Ninh Binh at least 6 hours before your flight.

For an even cheaper alternative, you can also take a combined train and express bus from Ninh Binh to Noi Bai Airport. The disadvantage of this option is that train journeys are limited. You can only take this option if it is compatible with your flight schedule.
 

Step 2: Flight from Hanoi to Da Nang

Duration: 1.5 hours

Cost: 900,000 VND ($34 USD)

With several daily flights between Hanoi and Da Nang, you can find flexible options. Consider booking an afternoon flight to allow enough time for your transfer from Ninh Binh. Flight booking sites such as VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines frequently offer discounted fares, so keep an eye out for deals.
 

Step 3: Da Nang to Hoi An by Shuttle Bus

Duration: 1 hour

Cost: From $6 USD for a shuttle bus, or around $13 USD for a taxi.

From Da Nang airport, there are two ways to get to Hoi An: by shuttle bus for around 155,000 VND ($6) or by taxi for 320,000 VND ($13).

Shuttle buses are practical if you’re traveling solo or don’t mind a shared ride, while taxis offer a direct transfer to your accommodation.

Via a Local Travel Agency

Duration: Flexible

Cost: Varies by package

For a hassle-free travel experience, booking through a local agency such as Vietnam Original Travel can be a smart choice. There are a few reasons why you should consider booking a transfer with us:

• We’ll handle all transportation arrangements, from booking tickets to organizing pickups and transfers. 
• We will arrange your journey based on your preferences, ensuring you won’t need to worry about scheduling or ticket availability. 
• We also offer tailor-made travel itineraries that include stops along the way, providing a unique and customizable travel experience.
• We cater to special requests, ensuring a smooth, well-organized trip without the need for constant coordination or planning on your end.

FAQs

Ninh Binh to Hoi An Distance

The distance from Ninh Binh to Hoi An is approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles) by road. The journey can take anywhere from 13 to 18 hours by bus or train, while traveling by plane via Hanoi and Da Nang can cut the total travel time to around 5.5 hours (excluding wait times).

How Many Days in Ninh Binh is Enough?

For a well-rounded experience in Ninh Binh, 2 to 3 days is usually ideal. This timeframe allows you to explore popular attractions like the Tam Coc boat ride, the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Caves, and the scenic viewpoints in Van Long Nature Reserve. With a little extra time, you can also enjoy a slower pace, discovering local specialties or cycling through peaceful villages.

Is it Worth Staying in Ninh Binh?

Yes, Ninh Binh is definitely worth staying in for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and less crowded atmosphere compared to places like Halong Bay. Known as the "Ha Long Bay on land," Ninh Binh offers breathtaking limestone karsts, river caves, ancient pagodas, and local hospitality. Staying here overnight lets you explore at your own pace and catch the beauty of sunset and sunrise over the rice fields, making it a peaceful escape that’s still packed with adventure.

How to Get from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh

To travel from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh, you can take either a bus or a private transfer. Here are your main options:

Bus: Direct buses from Halong City to Ninh Binh run daily and typically take about 4.5 to 5 hours. The journey is affordable, with prices ranging from $12 to $15 USD. Booking platforms like BookAway can help you secure tickets in advance.

Private Transfer: For a quicker and more comfortable option, book a private car. A private transfer takes around 4 hours and offers flexibility with stops along the way. Prices vary, starting at around $70 USD depending on the provider and vehicle type.

Either option will bring you through scenic countryside, making this route a pleasant addition to your Vietnam itinerary.

With multiple ways to travel from Ninh Binh to Hoi An—by bus, train, flight, or through a local agency—you have plenty of options to suit your itinerary and comfort level. Ready to make your journey unforgettable? Book your preferred route, pack your bags, and prepare for the beauty of Hoi An’s ancient town awaiting you at the end of your travels. Safe journey!

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