Fastest way from Hai Phong to Hanoi: Bus, about 1h 30min – 2h 30min (from €9). Cheapest: Train, from €7 (about 1h 55min – 2h 20min). Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): Cat Ba Express, Daiichi Travel, VietNam Travel Bus; main departure point: Cai Beo Ferry Terminal and Dock.
There are 2 ways to get from Hai Phong to Hanoi
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Companies selling this route on 12Go
Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.
| Company | Mode | Departs from | From | Offers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnam Rail | Train | Hai Phong | €7 | 20 |
| Vietnam Railway | Train | Hai Phong | €9 | 2 |
| Daiichi Travel | Bus | 217 Mot Thang Tu | €9 | 29 |
| Ninh Binh Travel | Bus | Tung Quang Hotel | €10 | 3 |
| Cat Ba Express | Bus | Cai Beo Ferry Terminal and Dock | €11 | 48 |
| Bang Phan | Bus | Cat Ba Town | €11 | 3 |
| VietNam Travel Bus | Bus | 548 Pham Van Dong | €12 | 28 |
| Amazing Vietnam Travel | Bus | 53 Nui Ngoc | €12 | 4 |
| Good Morning Cat Ba Bus | Bus | Cat Ba Oasis Bar | €13 | 8 |
| Daily Limousine | Bus | Cat Ba New Horizon Hotel | €13 | 23 |
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Practical tips
For this short and frequent route, buying your bus ticket directly at the station just before departure is usually the easiest and cheapest option. Online booking isn't always necessary for such a short hop.
While many companies operate, look for those with newer, well-maintained buses. Ask your hotel or a local for recommendations to ensure a comfortable journey and avoid any potential issues.
Though it's a short trip, having your phone, water, and perhaps a small snack in a day pack is always a good idea. Your main luggage will be stowed underneath.
Some operators might offer 'express' or 'limousine' services that, while slightly pricier, can offer more comfort and potentially a slightly faster journey, especially if they have fewer stops.
While the journey itself is quick, getting into Hanoi's city center can add time due to traffic, especially during peak hours. Factor this into your overall travel plan.
The journey experience
Heading from Hai Phong to Hanoi? This short hop is a common leg for travellers exploring northern Vietnam, especially after a visit to Cat Ba Island or Ha Long Bay. You might be wondering if a bus is truly the best way, or if there are other hidden gems like a quick train or even a flight for such a short distance. We've got you covered with the practicalities, ensuring you pick the most efficient and comfortable option to get you back to the capital, ready for your next adventure.
For this specific route, the bus is overwhelmingly the most straightforward and cost-effective choice. You can expect to pay around €4-5, and the journey typically takes just over an hour. Various operators ply this route frequently throughout the day, ensuring you won't be stuck waiting long. There are no direct train connections that make sense for this short distance, and flying would be entirely impractical, saving neither time nor money.
Vietnam's transport network can seem complex, but for routes like Hai Phong to Hanoi, it's about simplicity and efficiency. Don't waste time looking for alternatives; the bus is your go-to. It's a quick, comfortable, and cheap ride that gets you directly into the heart of Hanoi, allowing you to maximize your precious travel time without the stress of deciphering complicated schedules or booking platforms. You'll be settled in Hanoi before you know it.
Frequently asked questions — Hai Phong → Hanoi
For the Hai Phong to Hanoi route, a regular bus is by far the best option. It's a short journey of just over an hour, making sleeper buses, trains, ferries, or flights completely unnecessary and inefficient. The bus is direct, frequent, and offers the best balance of speed and cost.
The bus journey typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, especially as you approach Hanoi. It's a straightforward trip, and buses usually operate throughout the day, not overnight.
A bus ticket for this route is very affordable, usually costing from €9 (up to €15). Prices are fairly consistent across operators, and there's generally no need to book far in advance.
For this popular and frequent route, booking in advance is generally not necessary. You can easily purchase a ticket at the bus station just before your desired departure. However, if you prefer peace of mind, platforms like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn do offer online booking.
Why visit Hanoi?
- ✓ Explore the historic Old Quarter on a cyclo or walking tour, with its narrow streets and traditional shophouses.
- ✓ Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, a tranquil oasis in the city center.
- ✓ Discover the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university.
- ✓ Savor authentic street food like Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee at local eateries.
- ✓ Attend a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique Vietnamese art form.
When to visit Hanoi?
HUMID SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE
October to April — cooler, drier weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What to do in Hanoi?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
How long to visit Hanoi?
For an independent traveler, 3 to 5 days is ideal. You can comfortably explore the Old Quarter, historical sites, and enjoy the local food scene. Extend to 7 days if you plan day trips to Ninh Binh or Halong Bay.
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