Are you planning a trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long Bay? This journey will take you from the vibrant southern metropolis to the majestic and serene bay of the North. To ensure a smooth and cost-effective trip, you need to understand the transportation options, estimated costs, ticket booking methods, and a reasonable itinerary. This article will help you fully prepare for an unforgettable adventure to Ha Long.

Transportation Options from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long

By Airplane

Flying from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Van Don Airport takes about 2 hours. If you fly to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), the flight time is also around 2 hours, followed by a 3 - 4 hour car journey to Ha Long. Airfare typically ranges from 1,500,000 to 3,500,000 VND/one-way, depending on the airline and booking time. A taxi or shuttle from Van Don Airport to Ha Long costs approximately 200,000 – 300,000 VND. The main advantage of flying is time-saving - it’s convenient and comfortable, ideal for busy travelers. You can also enjoy scenic views of Ha Long Bay via seaplane or helicopter for a unique experience. There are many flight times available, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

By Overnight Train

If you choose the overnight train, the journey from Saigon Station to Hanoi Station takes about 19 - 20 hours, followed by an additional 3 - 4 hour car ride to Ha Long. Train tickets typically cost between 400,000 and 800,000 VND, depending on the seat or sleeper class. The bus from Hanoi to Ha Long costs around 100,000 – 150,000 VND. This mode of transport is budget-friendly, allows you to enjoy scenic views, and experience Vietnam’s iconic railway culture. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed journey. Train stations are usually located in city centers, making transfers more convenient.

By Self-Driving Motorcycle

For more freedom to explore, riding a motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long can be an adventurous experience. Travel time is approximately 30–35 hours depending on your route, speed, and number of rest stops. Motorbike rental costs about 150,000 to 250,000 VND/day, and fuel expenses for the 1,700 km distance are around 600,000 – 800,000 VND. Food and lodging costs along the way vary depending on personal needs. This method offers flexibility and the chance to discover interesting stops along the way. It’s ideal for those who enjoy challenges and exploring nature up close.

How to Book Plane and Train Tickets

Booking Flights

Booking flights is now very simple and convenient. You can visit the official websites of airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, or use trusted booking platforms such as Traveloka, Vntrip, Skyscanner, or Booking.com.

To make your trip to Ha Long more convenient, choose Van Don Airport (VDO) as your destination instead of Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), as Van Don is closer to Ha Long. When booking, fill in your personal information, select a suitable flight time, and proceed with payment.

After successful payment, you will receive an e-ticket via email. Make sure to save and double-check the details before your trip. Also, watch for promotional offers and book early to get the best fares, especially during peak travel seasons.

Booking Train Tickets

You can buy train tickets in several ways:

• Directly at major railway stations such as Saigon Station or Hanoi Station.
• Online via the official website of Vietnam Railways Corporation: https://dsvn.vn. 
• Or through reputable ticket booking apps like VnRailway, Momo, VNPay, etc.

When booking, you can choose your preferred seat type, air-conditioned sleeper berth, train car, and departure time to suit your travel plans. It is advisable to book early, especially during holidays, Tet (Lunar New Year), or peak tourist seasons to avoid sold-out tickets and price increases.

Itinerary Planning and Recommended Attractions

When planning a trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long, you should create an itinerary that harmoniously combines nature exploration, cultural and historical experiences, and local culinary enjoyment. Below is a suggested 3 - day itinerary to help you optimize your time and enjoy a well - rounded experience.

Day 1: Travel – Rest – Light Sightseeing

After traveling to Ha Long (typically takes half a day including flights and car transfers), choose a hotel or homestay in the Bai Chay area for convenient rest and travel. In the afternoon, you can stroll along Bai Chay Beach, visit Ha Long Market, or, if you have the energy, explore Sun World Ha Long Complex – a popular entertainment park in the area. Keep your schedule light on the first day to allow your body to adjust and get adequate rest.

Day 2: A Full Day Exploring Ha Long Bay

The second day should be fully dedicated to joining a cruise tour to explore Ha Long Bay – an unmissable highlight of the trip. Depending on your schedule, you can choose either a day tour or an overnight 2-day-1-night cruise. Popular stops on these tours typically include Thien Cung Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Trong Mai Islet (Fighting Cock Islet), and Ga Choi Islet. Kayaking or taking a bamboo boat to explore water caves are also my favorite activities. Many tours also include visits to Cua Van fishing village and allow guests to swim at Titop Island or Soi Sim Beach. It's recommended to book your tour at least one day in advance and to prepare necessary items such as sunscreen, comfortable clothing, swimwear, a hat, and suitable footwear.

Day 3: Extend the Journey – Explore Nearby Destinations

If you have additional time, consider visiting one of two notable destinations near Ha Long: Ninh Binh or Hanoi. Ninh Binh is about a 3 - hour drive from Ha Long and is famous for attractions such as the Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. It’s an ideal option for nature lovers or those interested in spiritual experiences. Hanoi, about 2.5 to 3 hours from Ha Long by car, is perfect for exploring Northern Vietnam’s culture, architecture, and cuisine. Notable spots in Hanoi include Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter. You can get there by bus, rent a private car, or join a day group tour for convenience.

Recommended Cuisine to Try

Cuisine is an essential part of every journey. In Ha Long, be sure to try Cha Muc (grilled squid cake) – a local seafood delicacy. Other dishes worth sampling include seafood noodle soup, Sa Sung (peanut worms), grilled oysters with scallion oil, and steamed clams. If your trip includes stops in Hanoi or Ninh Binh, don’t miss iconic dishes like beef Pho, Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles), fried spring rolls, Com Chay (crispy rice), and traditional sweet Che. To ensure quality and safety, it's best to dine at well-reviewed eateries or ask locals for recommendations.

Estimated Costs for a 2 - 3 Day Trip

The estimated cost for a 2–3 day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long varies depending on your choice of transport, accommodation, and activities. A common option – including round-trip airfare, mid-range hotel, a day cruise tour, and basic expenses – typically ranges from 6,000,000 to 9,000,000 VND per person. If you opt for budget-friendly choices like homestays, simple meals, and travel with a group to split costs, you can manage with around 5,000,000 – 6,000,000 VND. On the other hand, if you stay in upscale hotels, join private tours, or include additional destinations like Ninh Binh or Hanoi, the total cost may exceed 10,000,000 VND.

To save money, it’s advisable to book flights and hotels early, look for seasonal promotions, or travel in a small group to reduce the costs of tours, transportation, and accommodation.

Budget-Friendly and Safe Travel Tips

To enjoy a safe and cost-effective trip to Ha Long, be flexible with your travel dates to find good deals on flights or train tickets. Signing up for price alerts on trusted booking platforms helps you catch promotions in time. When booking accommodation, prioritize reputable websites or professional travel companies such as Travel Authentic Asia to ensure reliable service. If you choose to travel by motorbike, prepare your health, check the vehicle carefully, bring proper safety gear, and plan rest stops to stay safe throughout the journey. Additionally, always carry your ID, follow traffic laws, and adhere to local regulations for a smooth and memorable trip.

A journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long offers a chance to experience the vibrant pace of Southern Vietnam along with the majestic natural beauty and rich culture of the North. By carefully preparing your transport, budgeting properly, planning a reasonable itinerary, and following important travel tips, you’ll enjoy a more seamless, affordable, and fulfilling trip. Choose the most suitable travel option, book your tickets and tours early, and immerse yourself in nature, local culture, and cuisine for a truly unforgettable experience.

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