HANOI Airport to CAT BA — Bus, Taxi, Train, Boat? ☀️
13 min readJun 3, 2020
Cat Ba Island - How to go there from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi?
- Cat Ba Island, located in Quang Ninh province, stands as one of northern Vietnam’s prime destinations. Offering a plethora of services and activities tailored for foreign tourists, it boasts easy accessibility from Hanoi City. Visitors can partake in boat trips around Cat Ba or Lan Ha Bay, or opt for a leisurely beach retreat at one of the island’s hotels. Indulging in local seafood is a must, with floating restaurants dotting the bayfront town. Among the island’s highlights is Cannon Fort, situated approximately 3 km from Cat Ba town.
- Various travel options exist from Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island in Halong Bay. The most efficient route involves taking a tourist bus, which includes a transfer by boat or ferry, directly from Hanoi City to Cat Ba Island — a journey spanning about 4 to 5 hours. Private transport services are also available, with some operating directly from Noi Bai Airport. Hanoi City itself is easily accessible by public bus or taxi, providing convenient connections for travelers.
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From Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island by taxi/bus + boat or bus/train + boat.
- The distance between Hanoi Noi Bai Airport and Cat Ba Island spans approximately 185 km, passing through Hanoi and Hai Phong City. Optimal transportation involves taking a taxi or bus + ferry, coupled with a boat ride operated by a private company directly from the airport. This route typically costs around $23 per person, with a travel time averaging 4.5 to 5 hours.
- Alternatively, travelers can catch Express bus №86 (or utilize a taxi) to reach Hanoi City, then transfer to a private tourist bus bound for Cat Ba Island — an efficient and straightforward option.
- For those seeking alternatives, trains to Hai Phong and speedboats from Hai Phong to Cat Ba provide additional transportation avenues. Train fares from Hanoi to Hai Phong are notably economical. Another viable option is the bus and boat combination from Hanoi City to Cat Ba Island, priced between $11 and $17 per person, with a travel duration of approximately 4 to 4.5 hours.
- Furthermore, travelers can journey to Tuan Chau Island from Hanoi, then proceed to Cat Ba Island via boat to its northern region. It’s advisable to carefully review the transportation instructions for traveling from Hanoi Airport to Cat Ba Island to ensure a smooth journey.
How do you get from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island?
1. BUS / TAXI + FERRY from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island
- For travelers seeking an affordable and efficient route from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to the picturesque shores of Cat Ba Island, a combination of taxi, bus, and ferry offers a perfect solution. This budget-friendly journey not only provides a cost-effective option but also allows travelers to experience the beauty of Southeast Asia’s longest sea-crossing bridge and the charming island scenery along the way.
- The first step in this adventure begins with a taxi ride from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to the nearest bus station offering services to Cat Ba Island. This leg of the journey typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, ensuring ample time to soak in the sights and sounds of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.
- Several reputable bus companies operate routes from Hanoi (including the airport) to Cat Ba Island, including Goodmorning Cat Ba, Cat Ba Express, Daichi Travel, Grouptour, Full Moon, Cat Ba Discovery, and others. These companies offer join tickets at a reasonable price, averaging about $23 per person, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- The buses follow a scenic route, crossing the impressive Tan Vu — Lach Huyen bridge, which spans across sparkling waters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Upon reaching Cat Hai Island, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas as the bus winds its way towards the main town on Cat Ba Island.
- Upon arrival at Cat Ba town, passengers undergo a short boat transfer from the Got Port (Bến phà Gót) to the Cái Viềng port, a journey lasting approximately 15 minutes. This seamless transition adds an element of adventure to the trip, allowing travelers to experience the island’s charm firsthand.
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- there are also various tourist buses from Hanoi City to Cat Ba Island, so you can take a bus №86 to Hanoi City and from Hanoi City by bus+boat to Cat Ba Island
2. TRAIN + SPEEDBOAT from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island (via Hai Phong)
For adventurers seeking a seamless journey from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene shores of Cat Ba Island, a combination of train and speedboat offers an efficient and picturesque route. Here’s how to navigate your way from the capital to the captivating island paradise:
Step 1: From Hanoi to Hai Phong
Upon arriving at Noi Bai Airport, travelers have several options to reach Hanoi city center. Opt for a taxi for a swift one-hour journey, or hop on Express bus №86 for an affordable 1 to 1.5-hour ride. Taxi fares typically hover around $15, while the bus ride costs a mere $1.50, conveniently dropping passengers off at Hanoi Railway Station on Le Duan street.
From Hanoi Railway Station, board a train bound for Hai Phong. The journey spans approximately 2.5 hours, allowing travelers to relax and soak in the scenic vistas. Train tickets range from $2 to $4 for seats, offering a budget-friendly mode of transportation. Train arrives to Hai Phong Railway Station (75 Lương Khánh Thiện).
Step 2: From Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island
Upon arriving at Hai Phong Railway Station, venture to Pha Binh port (4 Bến Bính) where speedboats await to whisk you away to Cat Ba Island. The exhilarating speedboat ride spans approximately one hour, offering panoramic views of the shimmering waters along the way. You can also go to Bến Phà Got via Tan Vu-Lach Huyen bridge and take a ferry to Cat Ba.
The speedboat docks at Cat Ba Pier on the island, where travelers can disembark and immerse themselves in the island’s natural splendor. Tickets for the boat/ferry ride from Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island typically cost around $9, providing an affordable and efficient means of island-hopping.
3. Travel on motorbike from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island
- For thrill-seekers and adventurous souls, there’s another exciting way to journey from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island — by renting a motorbike and hitting the open road. While it offers a sense of freedom and flexibility, it’s essential to consider the challenges and prerequisites before embarking on this exhilarating expedition.
- Renting a motorbike in Hanoi is relatively straightforward, with numerous rental shops offering a variety of bikes and scooters to suit different preferences and budgets. Prices typically range from $5 to $20 per day, depending on the type and condition of the vehicle. It’s essential to select a reliable rental provider and ensure the bike is in good working condition before setting off.
- Once equipped with a trusty steed, the journey begins with a ride from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Island, where travelers can board a boat to transport their motorbike across the water to Cat Ba Island. This option provides a unique and memorable experience, allowing riders to soak in the breathtaking views and coastal scenery along the way.
- However, it’s crucial to note that navigating the roads in Vietnam can be challenging and potentially hazardous, particularly for inexperienced riders. With chaotic traffic patterns, narrow lanes, and unpredictable road conditions, motorbike travel requires a high level of skill and caution. Additionally, possessing an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for legal compliance while operating a motor vehicle in Vietnam.
- While this mode of transportation offers unparalleled freedom and the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, safety should always be the top priority. Experienced motorbike drivers who are comfortable navigating Vietnam’s roads may find this option exhilarating and rewarding. However, for those less confident or unfamiliar with the local driving culture, alternative modes of transportation may be preferable.
Crossing to Cat Ba Island:
To reach Cat Ba Island from Halong City, you have two options:
- Ferry: Take a ferry from Tuan Chau Island or Hon Gai Port in Halong City to Cat Ba Island. The ferry ride takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Bridge: Alternatively, you can take the newly built Tan Vu — Lach Huyen Bridge, which connects Halong City directly to Cat Hai Island, followed by a short ferry ride to Cat Ba Island.
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4. Book a Private Tour / Cruise from Hanoi to Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island
Booking a private tour or cruise to Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island can be an excellent way to personalize your experience and enjoy the stunning landscapes at your own pace. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to book a private tour or cruise to these destinations:
- Research Tour Operators: Start by researching reputable tour operators or cruise companies that offer private tours to Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island. Look for companies with positive reviews, reliable customer service, and a range of itinerary options to suit your preferences.
- Decide on Your Itinerary: Determine your preferred itinerary, including the duration of the tour, activities you’d like to do, and any specific sights you want to visit. Consider whether you want to explore Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island, or both destinations during your private tour.
- Contact Tour Operators: Reach out to the tour operators or cruise companies that you’re interested in booking with. You can contact them via their website, email, or phone to inquire about private tour options, availability, and pricing.
- Customize Your Tour: Work with the tour operator to customize your private tour according to your preferences. This may include choosing the type of boat or cruise vessel, selecting optional activities such as kayaking or cave exploration, and arranging for special requests such as onboard dining or accommodation.
- Confirm Booking Details: Once you’ve finalized the details of your private tour, confirm your booking with the tour operator. Make sure to review all the terms and conditions, including payment policies, cancellation policies, and inclusions/exclusions of the tour package.
- Receive Confirmation: After making your payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of your booking from the tour operator. This typically includes a detailed itinerary, information about meeting points or pickup locations, and any other relevant instructions for your tour.
- Prepare for Your Tour: In the days leading up to your private tour, make sure to pack any essentials you’ll need for your trip, such as sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable clothing, and camera equipment. Double-check your booking details and confirm any pickup arrangements with the tour operator.
FAQ + Tips - Travel route from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island:
How to book and buy tickets from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island?
⭐⭐⭐ Search and book e-tickets from Hanoi (+Airport) to Cat Ba Island online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can also search and book another tickets, e.g. Hanoi > Hai Phong, Hai Phong > Cat Ba…)
How long does it take from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island?
- Travel by taxi/bus+ferry from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island takes about 4,5–5 hours.
- Travel by train+boat from Hanoi to Cat Ba Island (via Hai Phong) takes about 4–5 hours.
- Travel by plane (Hai Au Aviation) from Hanoi to Tuan Chau takes about 1 hour.
How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi — Noi Bai Airport?
- Travel by taxi/bus+ferry from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island costs about $23. Bus tickets from Hanoi City to Cat Ba Island costs about $11–17/pp.
- Travel by train of VR+speedboat from Hanoi City to Cat Ba Island (via Hai Phong) costs about $10–15.
- Travel by plane (Hai Au Aviation) from Hanoi to Tuan Chau costs about $30–110.
What is the travel distance from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island?
- The travel distance from Hanoi — Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island spans approximately 185 kilometers. This distance can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen, such as taxi, bus, train, or ferry. While the journey may involve multiple transfers, including a combination of land and water transportation, it offers travelers the opportunity to witness the diverse landscapes of northern Vietnam en route to the serene shores of Cat Ba Island.
From which bus stations buses to Cat Ba Island depart?
- Buses to Cat Ba Island depart from various bus stations in Hanoi and airport. Check carefully these informations on Baolau or 12go.asia, you will see this information before you book your tickets online.
Is it possible to travel by bus back from Cat Ba Island to Hanoi?
- Yes, it is possible to travel by bus (+speedboat) from Cat Ba Island to Hanoi. The same way how you came to the island.
How to explore Cat Ba Island?
- The best way is to rent a motorbike or scooter. In summary, Cat Ba Island presents a myriad of transportation choices, including motorbike rentals for independent exploration, boat tours for scenic adventures, bicycles and taxis for convenient travel. With these options, visitors can effortlessly traverse the island’s diverse terrain, uncovering its natural beauty, cultural treasures, and historical landmarks at their own pace, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.
Searching for a cruise experience in Ha Long Bay? Take your time to carefully assess the available boat options.
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Where to stay, where to find some hotels in Cat Ba Island?
- You can stay and find various hotels and guesthouses in Cat Ba town in the south of the island. Read this > 15 Best Hotels in Cat Ba Island.
How long to stay in Cat Ba Island?
- It depends what do you want to see and visit. You can explore this island or you can take a beach relax or boat trip to Lan Ha Bay. So in my opinion 4–5 days are optimal.
What is the closest airport to Cat Ba Island?
- The closest airport to Cat Ba Island is Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong. Cat Bi is about 25 km from the island. From this airport you can travel to various places in Vietnam, e.g. by plane to Da Nang.
Is there an railway on Cat Ba Island?
- No, there is no railway, it is not possible to travel by train on Cat Ba. You can only travel by train from Hanoi to Hai Phong.
What is the best way of getting from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island?
- The best way of transport from Hanoi Airport to Cat Ba Island is to travel by taxi or bus/minivan+ferry via Hai Phong. Tickets are cheap and it is the most fastest way how to reach Cat Ba Island from Hanoi Airport
What is the cheapest way of getting from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Cat Ba Island?
- The cheapest way how to get from Hanoi Airport to Cat Ba Island is to travel by bus+ferry via Hanoi City. You can take a bus №86 from the airport to the city and from Hanoi City another bus+boat via Hai Phong.
How to travel from Cat Ba Island to Hanoi?
- You can also travel by bus+ferry from Cat Ba to Hanoi via Hai Phong or via Tuan Chau. There are various bus companies on this travel route. Read and check this article and book bus tickets online > Cat Ba Island to Hanoi - Bus Schedule.
How to go from Tuan Chau Island to Cat Ba Island?
- If you want to travel from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Island and then you would like to get to Cat Ba Island, you can take a boat transfer from Tuan Chau (Bến phà Tuần Châu) to Cat Ba Island (Gia Luan pier), it takes about 1 hour. You can also transport your motorbike by boat from this port. From Gia Luan pier you can travel by local bus to Cat Ba town in the south.
