As you know, Halong Bay is the number 1 attraction in Vietnam and is situated in the north of the country. There are several means of transportation available for the Hanoi – Halong Bay ride.
1. Halong Bay Bus
Distance: 160km-4 hours drive
It is the most convenient way to reach Halong Bay from Hanoi. To choose a bus for Halong, you have to know exactly how you want to travel to Halong Bay.
If you want to cruise and then spend the night on a boat in Halong Bay, normally the boat company also offers the shuttle between your hotel in Hanoi to the pier in Halong. If you plan to visit Halong Bay individually, you can book the bus to Halong Bay at your hotel in Hanoi or on the internet.
If you want to visit another bay that is still beautiful but less touristy than Halong Bay, you should note that:
Junks for Bai Tu Long Bay depart from Hon Gai Harbor (20km from Tuan Chau Harbor, taxi is available).
Junks for Lan Ha Bay depart from Cat Ba Island.
2. Hanoi – Halong Bay by train
The train is the cheapest way to get to Halong Bay. The train is slow though; the journey lasts more than 7 hours. Moreover, the station is far from the boat dock. As a result, very few travelers choose this option.
3. Hanoi – Halong Bay by private car
The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes about 4 hours because the road is not very wide and the traffic density is dense. The speed limit is 40km / h. Patience is important!