1. Overview of the journey from Hanoi to Mong Cai
1.1. Where is Mong Cai? Reasons to plan a trip here
Mong Cai is located at the northeasternmost point of Quang Ninh province, bordering Dongxing city of China via an international border gate. This area has a special geographical location with rich scenery and trading activities. Highlights include Tra Co beach with its clear blue sea, the always bustling Ka Long market, and a prosperous commercial area system. Upon arrival, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the intersection of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures right at the international border gate, where shopping for unique items and enjoying characteristic border region dishes frequently takes place.
The vibrant atmosphere of the trading area blends with the fresh natural scenery, making Mong Cai an attractive choice for both leisure and business trips. Tra Co beach boasts a long stretch of white sand and clear blue waters, making it an ideal place to relax after exploring the border market. Additionally, visitors can spend time exploring Tran Quoc Nghien temple to learn more about the historical and traditional values of the land at the northernmost tip of the homeland.
Mong Cai is located at the northeastern tip of Quang Ninh province, bordering Dong Hung city of China through an international border gate. (Source: Collected)
1.2. Distance, actual travel time
The distance from Hanoi to Mong Cai via the new highway has an actual travel time of only 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours. This time applies to modern vehicles such as limousine cars, personal cars, or new model coaches on the highway. Previously, without the highway system, this journey often took 7-8 hours because it had to go through national highways with many winding, difficult sections.
The change in travel time has brought a new breeze to the journey of exploring the border region. Currently, famous limousine car companies operate regularly with 15-16 trips per day with an accurate travel time of about 3 hours 57 minutes. This allows tourists to comfortably depart from Hanoi early in the morning, having enough time to explore the highlights in Mong Cai during the day, and then return to Hanoi in the evening.
1.3. Why Hanoi to Mong Cai is becoming popular
The advent of the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long – Van Don – Mong Cai highway has created a significant advancement for tourism in the Northeast. This route is nearly 600 km long and is considered one of the leading modern transportation systems in the country, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing the tourist experience. From Hanoi to Mong Cai is now convenient, no longer a concern about the long distance.
In addition to the highway system, the plan to develop the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway is also being implemented, expected to be completed in 2028 with a maximum speed of 350 km/h. Upon completion, this railway will shorten the travel time to about 1 hour 30 minutes. The combination of modern infrastructure and diverse tourism potential has made Mong Cai a chosen destination for many family tourist groups, adventure lovers, and business travelers on their trips.
The emergence of the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long – Van Don – Mong Cai expressway has created a major step forward for the tourism sector. (Source: Collected)
2. Updated routes from Hanoi to Mong Cai
2.1. Latest Hanoi – Mong Cai expressway
The throughout expressway from Hanoi to Mong Cai includes modern road sections: Hanoi – Hai Phong expressway, Ha Long – Van Don expressway, and Van Don – Mong Cai expressway. The specific route will travel through Hanoi, to the Phap Van interchange, entering the Hanoi – Hai Phong expressway. Continue to the Hai Phong interchange then merge onto the Ha Long – Mong Cai expressway and finally reach the center of Mong Cai city. On these sections, the maximum allowed speed ranges from 80 to 120 km/h, ensuring safety and saving time.
This expressway is highly rated for its flat, good quality road surface, which helps vehicles move stably and smoothly. The rest stop system is reasonably located in Ha Long and Van Don, offering a variety of services such as dining, fuel, and restrooms. The completion of the entire expressway in 2025 has greatly contributed to promoting tourism development in the Dong Bac region and enhancing trade activities at the border gate.
2.2. Route via National Highway 18
National Highway 18 remains a favorite choice for many tourists who enjoy admiring nature and experiencing the "road trip" feeling. This route passes through Hanoi, Hai Duong, Kinh Mon, Uong Bi, Ha Long, Cam Pha, Mong Duong, Tien Yen, Dam Ha, and finally reaches Mong Cai. Throughout the journey, tourists will pass by many outstanding attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Yen Tu Mountain, and the majestic mountains of Dong Bac.
Compared to the expressway, traveling via National Highway 18 takes about 6-7 hours but offers a rich experience with diverse scenery. Tourists can easily stop at attractions such as Thien Cung Cave, Yen Tu Pagoda, or enjoy local specialties in Ha Long and Cam Pha. This route is very suitable for those traveling by motorbike, with ample time to stop and explore.
3. Transportation from Hanoi to Mong Cai
3.1. Passenger cars, Limousines
Duc Trong Limousine is one of the trusted companies with 16 trips per day from 4:30 AM to 8:00 PM, with ticket prices of 450,000 VND per passenger. This line of vehicles is equipped with massage seats, two-way air conditioning, and a modern entertainment system. Flexible pick-up points at Noi Bai airport, My Dinh bus station, and central districts of Hanoi, supporting easy online booking via phone or app.
Loi Vu Limousine also serves with similar frequency, ticket price of 450,000 VND, standing out with its new fleet and dedicated customer service. Ka Long (Hoang Kien) serves the route from Hanoi to Mong Cai by sleeper bus departing at 10:00 PM from Pham Hung, arriving around 3:36 AM the next morning, suitable for those who want to save daytime travel time.
Buses and limousines are two types of vehicles chosen by many tourists. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Motorbike
The journey to conquer from Hanoi to Mong Cai by motorbike, about 300 km long, is an interesting challenge for exploration enthusiasts. This route combines sections of highways where traffic is allowed, and passes through National Highway 18 with scenery stretching from the Northern Delta to the Northeastern mountains. Reasonable resting points include the Hai Phong area (suitable for breakfast), Ha Long (enjoy the bay, rest) before continuing towards Mong Cai.
Some notes for the trip: you need to check the motorbike carefully before departure, prepare basic repair tools and spare fuel. It is advisable to start the journey around 5:00 to 6:00 AM, to take advantage of the cool weather and avoid the harsh sun. Divide the journey into stages of 80-100 km to combine rest, meals, ensuring health and safety throughout the trip.
3.3. Personal Car
Driving a car from Hanoi to Mong Cai offers flexibility in choosing stops, controlling the schedule, and comfortably transporting luggage. The total toll fee for the round trip is about 500,000-700,000 VND, depending on the vehicle type and can be paid by VETC card or directly at the toll station. It is essential to prepare all necessary documents such as a driver's license, valid vehicle registration, and civil liability insurance. Additionally, before the trip, proactively check tire pressure, engine oil, and coolant.
The rest stop in Ha Long is an ideal place for meals, restrooms, and refueling. In Van Don, tourists can spend time resting at high-class resorts before continuing their journey. The advantage of self-driving is the ease of carrying more luggage and flexibility in moving between attractions in Mong Cai.
3.4. Combination of Airplane – Car/Taxi
Van Don Airport is about 60 km from the center of Mong Cai, facilitating the combination of travel by plane and car. Flights from Hanoi to Van Don usually depart in the morning, arriving around 8:30-9:00 AM. From the airport, you can choose a taxi for about 800,000-1,000,000 VND or a limousine for 300,000-400,000 VND to travel to Mong Cai within 1 hour.
A reasonable itinerary is to depart from Hanoi at 7:00 AM, arrive in Van Don at 8:30 AM, and continue traveling to reach Mong Cai by 10:00 AM to start sightseeing. This option is suitable for business travelers or those who want to optimize their time at the destination. When returning, you can choose an afternoon flight from Van Don at 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM or take a car back to Hanoi to travel while enjoying the sunset scenery on the highway.
Flights from Hanoi to Van Don usually depart in the morning. (Source: Collected)
4. Ideal Departure Time and Travel Plan
4.1. Early Morning Departure, Avoiding Traffic Jams, Practical Experience
The ideal time to start from Hanoi to Mong Cai is between 5:00 AM and 6:30 AM. This helps you avoid traffic congestion on key routes such as Thanh Tri Bridge or the Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway. An early departure also ensures you arrive in Mong Cai around 9:00-10:00 AM, a suitable time to visit areas like the border market or Tra Co Beach in pleasant weather conditions.
Many frequent travelers on this route share that using applications like Google Maps or VOV Traffic helps proactively grasp the traffic situation and adjust schedules promptly. Duc Trong limousine company usually has the first trip of the day at 5:00 AM, ensuring a punctual schedule and completing the entire expressway route. On weekends or holidays, it is advisable to depart a little earlier to guard against unforeseen circumstances.
4.2. Suggested 1-Day, 2-Day Itinerary for Experiencing Mong Cai
1-Day Itinerary: Start the journey at 5:00 AM by limousine from Hanoi, arrive in Mong Cai at 9:00 AM, visit Ka Long Market to buy specialties and imported goods. At 11:00 AM, move to Tra Co Beach for swimming and enjoying seafood at beachfront restaurants. At 2:00 PM, continue visiting Mong Cai International Border Gate to learn about border trade activities. At 4:00 PM, board the car back to Hanoi, expected to arrive in the capital at 8:00 PM.
2-Day Itinerary: The first day follows the Day 1 plan, but stay overnight in Mong Cai to experience more evening activities such as enjoying street food, strolling through the city center, or participating in local entertainment.
On the second morning, you can visit Tran Quoc Nghien Temple, explore the Mong Cai Museum, experience spa or massage services before departing for Hanoi. If desired, you can combine a stop in Ha Long on the way back to visit the famous world natural heritage site.
5. Experience Traveling from Hanoi to Mong Cai
5.1. What to Prepare? Documents, Luggage, Cash
The list of documents to bring includes ID card/Citizen ID card or passport (if planning to go to China), driver's license if driving yourself, along with vehicle-related documents such as registration and insurance. When traveling from Hanoi to Mong Cai in the summer, prepare light clothing, high SPF sunscreen, hats or caps for sun protection as the coastal area has quite hot weather. In winter, bring warm clothing as temperatures at night and early morning can drop to 10-15°C.
Regarding finances, carrying cash for use at Ka Long Market or local services is necessary. If you intend to buy Chinese goods, you should exchange some Chinese Yuan in advance at reputable currency exchange points in Mong Cai for convenient shopping. Prepare personal medications, especially motion sickness medicine if you are prone to seasickness, and a power bank for communication or taking photos throughout the journey.
List of documents to bring includes identity card/citizen identification card or passport (if planning to go to China). (Source: Collected)
5.2. Weather updates, traffic forecasts during holidays and festivals
Websites like AccuWeather.com or applications from the National Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting Center provide detailed weather forecast information for the Mong Cai – Quang Ninh area. When traveling from Hanoi to Mong Cai on stormy days, pay attention to warnings about storms of level 8 or higher and proactively postpone the schedule if necessary. The rainy season (approximately June to September) usually has showers in the afternoon/evening, while the dry season (from October to April of the following year) has quite stable weather, ideal for tourism.
Updated traffic information can be looked up via the website of the Vietnam Road Administration, the VOV Traffic application, or the "Quang Ninh Traffic" fanpage. During major holidays such as Tet Nguyen Dan, April 30th - May 1st, the number of vehicles on the Hanoi – Hai Phong expressway and the Ha Long – Mong Cai route usually increases significantly. Therefore, you should proactively depart 1-2 hours earlier than usual and book bus tickets 2-3 days in advance to get your desired seat.
6. Combine exploration
Sun World Ha Long is located right on the route from Hanoi to Mong Cai , making it a great choice to combine with additional sightseeing on your trip. This complex boasts the most modern cable car system in Vietnam, taking you to the top of Bai Tho mountain to admire the panoramic view of Ha Long Bay at an altitude of 200 m. Additionally, there is Typhoon Water Park and many thrilling games at Queen Cable Car Station to experience.
A small tip to maximize enjoyment is to choose a 2-day itinerary: the first day from Hanoi to Ha Long, play at Sun World and rest at resorts along the bay; the next morning, travel to Mong Cai for sightseeing then return to Hanoi. This arrangement helps you fully enjoy both outstanding destinations of Quang Ninh without rushing.
Sun World Ha Long is located right on the route from Hanoi to Mong Cai, making it a great choice to combine with further sightseeing on your trip.
7. Frequently Asked Questions when traveling from Hanoi to Mong Cai
7.1. How long does it take to travel? Should I drive myself?
The actual travel time from Hanoi to Mong Cai by expressway is about 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the vehicle you choose and the traffic conditions on the day. Limousine cars and personal cars have similar travel times, while motorbikes will take an additional 1-2 hours due to limited speed and the need for frequent stops. Self-driving is suitable for those who are accustomed to long-distance driving, have a stable vehicle, and want to be proactive about their time.
The benefits of self-driving include flexible stops, easy carrying of more luggage, and cost savings if traveling in a group. However, you also need to consider the fatigue after a 4-hour continuous drive, as well as road tolls and fuel costs. If you want to relax while traveling without worrying about driving, a limousine car is a reasonable choice with a price of 450,000 VND, quite competitive compared to the total cost of self-driving if all additional expenses are considered.
7.2. What are the import-export procedures at Mong Cai border gate?
At Mong Cai border gate, immigration procedures are applied according to modern processes that meet international standards, ensuring quick and convenient operations for tourists. Vietnamese visitors wishing to cross to the Chinese side need to prepare a passport valid for at least 6 months and a valid Chinese visa, except for cases exempt from visa requirements under specific policies. Procedures include checking personal documents, declaring goods carried, and undergoing basic health quarantine. Additionally, if you are returning on the same day, you only need to obtain a Border Pass without requiring a passport and visa. However, this method only allows tourists to re-enter Vietnam before 7 PM (Vietnam time).
The border gate is open every day, with immigration procedures taking an average of 15 to 30 minutes depending on the number of visitors. For the latest information, you should check the official website of the Quang Ninh Provincial Police or contact the hotline before your trip. For tourists visiting only attractions on the Vietnamese side, no other procedures are required besides personal identification to purchase tickets for attractions within Mong Cai city.
The journey from Hanoi to Mong Cai today is not only convenient but also offers a rich travel experience with a perfect combination of modern infrastructure and unique border culture. Save this article to best prepare for your upcoming exploration of the Northeast region!
