1. Overview of Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh - a world natural heritage site, is the most attractive destination in Northern Vietnam. Famous for Ha Long Bay - a natural wonder of the world, Quang Ninh also owns beautiful beaches, pristine islands, Yen Tu spiritual tourist area and a series of other attractive attractions. Thanks to the strong development of transport infrastructure, traveling to Quang Ninh is becoming more and more convenient. Tourists have many options for means of transportation to Quang Ninh to suit their financial conditions and personal preferences.
2. Update on ways to travel to Quang Ninh
2.1 By road
Road transportation to Quang Ninh is very convenient thanks to the modern expressway system. From Hanoi, tourists can take the Hanoi - Hai Phong - Ha Long expressway, shortening travel time to only about 2-2.5 hours. In addition, national highways such as QL18 and QL10 help connect Quang Ninh with neighboring provinces such as Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Hai Duong. With developed infrastructure, traveling to Quang Ninh by private car, bus, or motorbike is easy, providing a flexible and convenient travel experience.
2.1.1 Traveling to Quang Ninh by bus
Bus are a popular and economical means of transport for those who want to travel to Quang Ninh from Hanoi, Hai Phong, Hai Duong, and neighboring provinces.
Popular bus routes:
Hanoi - Quang Ninh: Bus companies such as Ka Long, Phuc Xuyen, Hoang Cong,... operate continuously.
Hai Phong - Quang Ninh: Takes about 1-2 hours to travel.
Hai Duong - Quang Ninh: Buses run regularly, with reasonable fares.
Advantages:
✔Low cost, only from 100,000 - 300,000 VND/trip depending on the route.
✔Many options, flexible time.
✔Modern, comfortable sleeper bus, limousine.
Disadvantages:
❌ Depends on the departure time of the bus company.
❌ Can get motion sickness if traveling long distances.
2.1.2 Traveling to Quang Ninh by private car
With a modern highway system, driving yourself to Quang Ninh is very convenient.
Popular travel routes:
From Hanoi: Via Hanoi - Hai Phong - Ha Long expressway, it only takes about 2-2.5 hours.
From Hai Phong: Via Bach Dang bridge, shortening travel time to only 45 minutes.
From the southern provinces: Follow National Highway 1A and connect with the North - South expressway.
Advantages:
✔ Be proactive with time and route.
✔ Suitable for groups of friends and families.
✔ Freely stop along the way.
Disadvantages:
❌ High cost of gas and road tolls.
❌ Require long-distance driving skills.
2.1.3 Traveling to Quang Ninh by motorbike
Motorbikes are an ideal choice for those who like to experience backpacking and explore the beautiful scenery on both sides of the road.
Suitable routes:
From Hanoi: Follow National Highway 18 through Bac Ninh, Chi Linh, Dong Trieu, Uong Bi.
From Hai Phong: Go through Bach Dang Bridge or National Highway 10.
Advantages:
✔ Save costs.
✔ Be proactive with time and route.
✔ Experience beautiful scenery on the way.
Disadvantages:
❌ Takes a long time (3-5 hours from Hanoi).
❌ Can easily encounter bad weather, affecting the journey.
❌ Need to ensure good health and a steady hand.
2.2. Traveling to Quang Ninh by train
Currently, the railway line to Quang Ninh mainly serves freight transport, but there is still a passenger train route from Hanoi to Ha Long. The journey starts from Yen Vien station (Hanoi) and ends at Ha Long station, with a travel time of about 6 hours. Although the speed is not as fast as other means of transport, the train offers a safe, comfortable experience, helping visitors relax and enjoy the scenery along the way. However, due to the low frequency of trips and long travel time, this means of transport is not yet a popular choice for tourists.
2.3. Traveling to Quang Ninh by plane
Quang Ninh owns Van Don International Airport, making air travel quick and convenient. Currently, this airport operates flights from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and some other provinces, with a flight time of about 2 hours. From Van Don Airport, visitors can easily travel to Quang Ninh to visit Ha Long or nearby tourist attractions by bus, taxi or private car. Although airfare is higher than other means of transport, this is an ideal choice for those who want to save time and enjoy comfort when traveling to Quang Ninh.
Flights to Quang Ninh:
Ho Chi Minh City - Quang Ninh: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air operate flights to Van Don Airport (~2 hours flight).
Da Nang - Quang Ninh: Some airlines operate depending on the season.
Advantages:
✔Fast, time-saving.
✔Suitable for guests from far away.
Disadvantages:
❌ Ticket prices are higher than other means of transport.
❌ Tickets need to be booked in advance, limited flexibility.
3. Compare means of transport to Quang Ninh
Transportation | Time | Estimated fees | Pros | Cons |
Coach | 3-5 hours | 100.000 – 300.000 VND | Affordable, convenient | Depends on the fixed schedules |
Private car | 2-3 hours | Gas + tolls | Proactive, comfortable | Higher price |
Motorcycle | 3-5 hours | 100.000 – 200.000 VND | Freedom, experience | Tired, weather risk |
Train | 6 hours | 150.000 – 300.000 VND | Safe, no motion sickness | Long travel time |
Plane | 2 hours | 1.000.000 – 3.000.000 VND | Fast and convenient | High price, depends on flight schedule |
There are many options for traveling to Quang Ninh to suit everyone. If you need to be quick, airplanes are the best option. If you want to save money, buses and trains are reasonable options. For those who like to explore freely, private cars and motorbikes are ideal means of transport. Hopefully with the above instructions, you will have a smooth journey to Quang Ninh! Wish you a happy trip!
