Traveling from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay is a journey that connects two of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, one known for its lively coastal charm, the other for its breathtaking UNESCO-listed limestone karsts. Although the distance between them is quite significant, reaching Ha Long is entirely manageable with the right planning. Whether you prefer flying, taking the train, traveling by sleeper bus, or embarking on a scenic road trip, each option offers a different balance of convenience, time, and experience. This guide breaks down every route clearly so you can choose the method that fits your schedule, budget, and travel style.
How far is Ha Long Bay from Da Nang?
Ha Long Bay is located quite far from Da Nang, with an aerial distance of approximately 550–600 km. When traveling by road, the actual distance becomes longer due to the number of provinces you must pass through while moving from Central Vietnam to the Northeast.
In terms of travel time, the journey can range from about 3–4 hours for the fastest options that involve air travel, to half a day or more for overland routes or longer connecting trips. Because the distance is significant, travelers should consider their schedule carefully and choose a transportation option that fits both their timing and travel style.
Read more: Where is Ha Long Bay in Vietnam? Full location guide
Best ways to travel from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay
The journey from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay is not overly complicated, but due to the considerable distance and the lack of direct routes, you need to choose the right mode of transportation based on your time and budget. Most travelers follow a “connecting route” model: flying to Northern Vietnam and then continuing by car, or choosing longer overland options to save money. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and the guide below will help you clearly understand which option suits your travel style best.
Flying From Da Nang to Northern Vietnam
Most travelers prefer flying because the flight time is relatively short and the major northern airports offer convenient onward connections to Ha Long Bay. Airfare varies depending on the season, travel date, and fare flexibility, but booking early generally helps keep costs low. When combined with a short car transfer, flying becomes a quick and efficient option for families and business travelers alike.
Da Nang → Hai Phong (Cat Bi Airport)
Hai Phong is the closest airport to Ha Long Bay, making it the best choice if you want to minimize total travel time. Flights usually take just over 60 minutes, and fares typically range from 800,000 to 2,000,000 VND per one-way ticket when booked a few weeks in advance. After landing, the transfer to Ha Long takes about 1–1.5 hours by taxi or private car, costing around 300,000–600,000 VND/person for shared vehicles or 700,000–1,200,000 VND for a private car.
Thanks to the short distance and light traffic, this option is ideal if you want to reach Ha Long Bay on the same day and make it in time for your cruise departure.
Da Nang → Hanoi (Noi Bai Airport)
If you want more flight choices, Hanoi is the most flexible transit point with a large number of daily flights. The flight takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, with fares typically ranging from 700,000 to 1,800,000 VND one-way, depending on date and promotions. From Noi Bai Airport or central Hanoi, you can take a limousine or private car to Ha Long, a 2.5–3 hour journey on modern highways. Limousine fares generally fall between 250,000–400,000 VND per person, while private cars usually cost 1,200,000–2,000,000 VND per vehicle.
This option works well if you want to visit Hanoi briefly or need flexible flight schedules.
Da Nang → Van Don (Quang Ninh Province)
If you can book a suitable flight to Van Don Airport, this is one of the quickest ways to reach Ha Long Bay by road. The drive takes only 45–60 minutes, making the transfer exceptionally easy. Airfares on this route typically range between 900,000 and 2,500,000 VND, depending on the season and flight availability. Because the flight schedule is not always consistent, this option especially suits travelers who can plan early or adjust their travel dates.
Traveling by train From Da Nang to Hanoi → Connecting to Ha Long Bay
The train is an appealing option for travelers who enjoy slow travel and want to admire the scenery along Vietnam’s coastline. The Da Nang – Hanoi railway takes 13–18 hours, depending on the train type and departure time. Ticket prices usually range from 500,000 to 1,200,000 VND per person, depending on whether you choose a seat or a sleeper cabin.
Once in Hanoi, you continue by limousine or private car to Ha Long Bay, typically costing 250,000–550,000 VND per person. This route works particularly well if you take an overnight train and arrive in Ha Long the following morning.
Sleeper Bus From Da Nang to Ha Long Bay
Sleeper buses are the most budget-friendly option for travelers who don’t mind long journeys. The trip takes 12–16 hours, depending on the operator and number of stops. Ticket prices usually fall between 450,000 and 900,000 VND, varying by bus type and service level.
If you depart at night, you can sleep through most of the journey and arrive in Ha Long the next morning, an efficient choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Self-driving or renting a private car from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay
Self-driving is ideal for groups of friends, families, or anyone who wants to turn the trip into a road adventure. The route generally follows National Highway 1A or the North–South expressway system, covering about 850–900 km. Driving continuously takes 14–16 hours, but many travelers split the trip into two days and stop at scenic destinations such as Hue, Quang Binh, or Ninh Binh.
Fuel costs for the journey usually range from 1,500,000 to 2,000,000 VND, with an additional 500,000–800,000 VND for tolls and highway fees. If you rent a car with a driver, the daily rate typically falls between 3,000,000 and 5,000,000 VND, depending on the vehicle type. This option gives you full control over your schedule and the freedom to stop wherever you like.
Best routes based on arrival airport
Once you arrive in Northern Vietnam, the final transfer to Ha Long Bay is the key step that determines whether you reach your destination comfortably and on time, especially if you plan to board a cruise. Each airport offers different advantages in terms of distance, travel time, and transport availability. The guide below outlines the most practical and traveler-friendly routes based on your chosen arrival airport.
From Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) to Halong Bay
If you land at Noi Bai Airport, the most common route is to travel to Ha Long via the modern expressway system, which usually takes around 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic and your exact drop-off point. The most convenient option is to book a limousine or private car directly from the airport, or from Hanoi’s Old Quarter if you prefer to rest or have a meal before continuing your journey. When making a reservation, it’s helpful to specify whether your destination is Bai Chay, Hon Gai, or a specific cruise port so the driver can take the correct route.
If you plan to board an overnight cruise, it’s best to choose a morning or early-afternoon transfer, giving yourself a comfortable buffer in case your flight arrives late. If your flight lands in Hanoi in the evening, staying overnight in the city and traveling to Ha Long the next morning is often a safer and more relaxed option.
If you are joining Grand Pioneers Cruises, you can take advantage of the cruise’s premium shuttle service departing from Hanoi. Modern limousine vehicles pick up guests in the Old Quarter or at a confirmed meeting point, ensuring a smooth and worry-free trip to Ha Long. Upon arrival, you will be taken directly to Grand Pioneers’ private waiting lounge, where you can relax in an air-conditioned space with refreshments and seating while waiting for boarding time. This is an ideal option for travelers who want a seamless, punctual, and comfortable transfer without navigating multiple transportation steps.
From Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) to Ha Long Bay
Cat Bi is one of the most convenient arrival airports thanks to its proximity to Ha Long. The drive typically takes only 1–1.5 hours, making it a quick and pleasant route with minimal traffic congestion. You can easily book a taxi, ride-hailing car, or private transfer directly at the airport. The road to Ha Long is smooth and straightforward, making this option especially suitable if you need to reach your cruise on the same day.
If your cruise departs from Tuan Chau or Hon Gai, it’s helpful to confirm the correct pier in advance, as the two areas lie in different directions within Ha Long City. Overall, landing at Cat Bi significantly reduces travel risks, offering one of the most predictable and time-efficient connections to Ha Long Bay.
From Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh) to Ha Long Bay
Van Don is the closest airport geographically, offering the shortest road transfer to Ha Long, usually around 45–60 minutes. This makes it an exceptionally comfortable option for travelers who want to avoid long car journeys after their flight. Private transfers are the most reliable way to travel from the airport, especially if you arrive during off-peak hours when shared vehicles are limited.
The only consideration is that flight schedules to Van Don are not always frequent, so this option is best for travelers who can plan ahead or adjust their travel dates. Once you arrive, simply clarify your final destination (Bai Chay, Hon Gai, or a specific cruise terminal) so the driver can take you directly to the correct area.
Tips for traveling From Da Nang to Ha Long Bay
The journey from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay is quite long and usually requires at least one connection, but with the right preparation, it can be smooth and stress-free. A few practical tips can help you avoid delays, stay comfortable, and ensure you arrive on time, especially if you are joining a cruise.
Allow buffer time if you have a cruise check-in
If you are boarding a cruise on the same day, aim for a morning or early-afternoon arrival in Northern Vietnam. Flight delays, baggage wait times, or traffic can happen, so avoid scheduling your transfer too close to the cruise check-in time. Leaving at least 2–3 hours of buffer is the safest choice.
Confirm your exact destination in Ha Long when booking transportation
Ha Long Bay has several different areas, Bai Chay, Hon Gai, and cruise ports such as Tuan Chau or Hon Gai International Harbor. If you simply say “Ha Long,” the driver may take you to the wrong area, costing extra time to reroute. Always confirm your hotel name or pier location when arranging your pickup.
Pre-book your transfer, especially if arriving late or traveling in groups
If your flight lands in the evening or you’re traveling with family and luggage, pre-booking your car is much more convenient. It helps you avoid last-minute price increases and ensures you get a direct, comfortable vehicle. For groups of three to five people or more, a private car is often more cost-effective than buying individual seats.
Travel light and choose luggage that’s easy to handle
Since traveling from Da Nang to Ha Long often involves multiple transfers, oversized luggage can slow you down and cause unnecessary hassle. A compact suitcase or backpack is ideal, along with a small personal bag for documents and essentials. If you’re joining a cruise, keep a small day bag ready with items you may need before check-in.
Prepare for Northern Vietnam’s weather, especially in winter and transition seasons
Northern Vietnam, including Ha Long Bay, can be significantly cooler and more humid than Da Nang, particularly from late autumn to the end of winter. Bring a light windbreaker, packable raincoat, and non-slip footwear for boarding boats, walking around ports, or visiting caves. In the summer, sun protection is essential due to strong UV exposure on the bay.
Ask about pickup/drop-off details and rest stops when booking limousines or buses
Some limousine services pick up in multiple locations within Hanoi and drop off at different points in Ha Long, which can affect total travel time. Confirm whether the vehicle picks up at the airport, whether it drops off directly at your cruise port, and whether it makes rest stops. Knowing this helps you manage meals, bathroom breaks, and cruise check-in time more efficiently.
A useful tip if you’re joining a premium cruise
If your cruise offers a shuttle service, such as Grand Pioneers Cruises, it can greatly simplify your journey. Their transfer service takes you directly to the correct port, and most importantly, provides access to a comfortable private waiting lounge before boarding. This is especially helpful for families, seniors, or anyone who wants a smooth, well-managed arrival without dealing with multiple transport arrangements.
In conclusion, the journey from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay is more than just a transfer between two famous destinations in Vietnam. It offers travelers a chance to combine diverse experiences in a single trip, from the vibrant coastal atmosphere of Central Vietnam to the dramatic limestone scenery of the North. With the right choice of transportation and a well-planned itinerary, traveling from Da Nang to Ha Long Bay can be smooth, time-efficient, and truly memorable for anyone exploring Vietnam.