Train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Train times & tickets

Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a wonderful experience that carries you through the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam. Train travel is the most enjoyable option for seeing the breathtaking scenery and experiencing the local way of life. Seen from the train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh route offers views of peaceful rivers, lush rice terraces, and towering mountains.

An extensive revision of the rail timetable from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

 Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Hanoi to Ninh Binh

The train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh hugs the busy North-South railway route, with regular departures to suit your itinerary to the letter. This is a summary of the usual itinerary, laced with observations from regular travelers:

SE Trains Express trains known as SEs are the speed demons of the line; they may get you to Ninh Binh in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your speed. Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Ha Noi) departures usually take place in the morning and afternoon. The SE19, which departs Hanoi at 9:05 am and arrives in Ninh Binh at 11:10 am, is highly recommended by travelers. It’s ideal for people who want to make the most of their sightseeing time in Ninh Binh (more time to visit those historic temples).
HA Trains The HA trains provide a slower, more picturesque travel option for people who would rather take their time; the trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Because departures are spaced out throughout the day, they’re a fantastic choice for tourists with erratic schedules. According to a traveler we talked with, the HA NOI, which leaves Hanoi at 2:15 pm, is highly recommended because of the breathtaking vistas of rice farms that spread out along the route like a verdant carpet (it looks like something out of a painting!).
SP Trains Special trains like the SP1 and SP3, which are primarily intended for tourists, offer a pleasant and picturesque ride on the Hanoi – Ninh Binh train. Wider chairs, air conditioning, and occasionally even onboard refreshments are among their features. Even while the tickets may be a little more expensive, the improved amenities can be a pleasant perk, particularly on longer trips.

The most recent train ticket prices between Hanoi and Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh

The kind of train, seat class, and any current Vietnam Railways specials all affect how much your Hanoi to Ninh Binh train ticket will cost. Below is a summary of prices accompanied by sage advice from travelers on a tight budget:

Hard Seat: The least expensive choice; it starts at about VND 167,000, or USD 7.20. For individuals traveling short distances or on a small budget, this class on the train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is ideal. To guarantee a more comfortable ride, several seasoned travelers advise choosing a somewhat more costly seat class on lengthier flights.

Soft Seat: Regular costs vary from VND 190,000 to VND 250,000 (about USD 8.20 to USD 10.70), and they offer greater legroom and comfort than hard seats. When looking for a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh that strikes a balance between budget and comfort, this is a popular option for many tourists.

Hard Berth: These bunks, which are shared with other passengers in the Hanoi to Ninh Binh train cabin, are perfect for overnight trips. Depending on how many people are traveling in each compartment, fares can change, but they typically begin at VND 280,000 (about USD 12.00). On the train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a seasoned backpacker we spoke with suggested booking a hard berth in a 4-person compartment for a more social experience. For increased privacy (less snoring symphony), solo travelers might prefer a 2-person compartment.

Soft Berth: Costing between VND 350,000 and VND 443,000 (about USD 15.00 to USD 19.00), soft berths offer the utmost luxury and seclusion for overnight travel. For those looking for a plush and comfortable train ride from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, these berths are great.

Pro Tip: Travel demand will soar over the summer vacation. When traveling by rail from Hanoi to Ninh Binh at this time, be prepared for increased prices and perhaps full trains. If you are going to be traveling during this period, think about purchasing your tickets well in advance.

Read more: Where to Stay in Ninh Binh: 10 exceptional hotels & bungalows to fit any budget

How can one purchase tickets for the train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?

Train tickets for the Hanoi to Ninh Binh line can be purchased in some ways. The following are some options to think about:

Online Booking: Making a reservation straight through Vietnam Railways’ official website is the most practical choice. The website is user-friendly for foreign visitors organizing their train trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh since it is available in both Vietnamese and English. To speed up the booking process, an experienced traveler we spoke with suggested making an account on the website in advance. Next, choose your desired train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, the date, and the class of your seat, and safely pay with a debit or credit card.

Train Station Booking: Reservations for trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh can also be made in person at the Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Ha Noi), which is situated at 120 Le Duan Street in the Hoan Kiem District of Hanoi. Arriving early can help you avoid last-minute rushes at the busy station, especially on weekends and holidays when it’s busiest. A regular traveler advises becoming acquainted with Vietnamese rail classes in advance to make sure you select the ideal seat when buying tickets at the station for your train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.

Travel Agents: A lot of Hanoi-based travel agents can help you reserve train tickets for your trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. For individuals who are not familiar with the booking procedure or who face language problems, this might be a helpful choice. Booking through agencies, nevertheless, might result in a service charge.

Important Information to Consider When Riding a Train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

 Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Drawing from the experiences of seasoned passengers, the following are some essential points to keep in mind for a seamless and pleasurable train ride from Hanoi to Ninh Binh:

  • Make travel plans in early: Especially during the busiest travel season, train tickets for well-traveled routes, such as Hanoi to Ninh Binh, tend to sell out rapidly. To minimize any tension at the last minute, it is thus a good idea to plan your vacation and purchase your train tickets in advance.
  • Get to the train station early: To guarantee that you have enough time to find your platform and board the Hanoi to Ninh Binh train, arrive at the train station at least thirty minutes before the planned departure time.
  • Be aware of your possessions: Pay close attention to your possessions, particularly when the train is stopping, and you are boarding and alighting. It is advisable to always carry your valuables with you.
  • Discover the natural beauty of Ninh Binh: Beautiful natural settings including Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Mua Caves, and Trang An Landscape Complex can be found in Ninh Binh. To truly enjoy the area’s natural splendor, take a boat trip through the limestone caverns and along the meandering rivers.

In addition to being a sensible option, traveling by train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is an unforgettable experience. The Hanoi – Ninh Binh train route provides passengers with a unique view of Vietnam’s beauty and culture, from the breathtaking landscape along the way to the ease of transit. Whether you are traveling alone or with loved ones, using the train is a fantastic way to experience the culture and create lifelong memories. With Vietnam Allure Travel, embrace a stress-free and rewarding discovery of Ninh Binh. Get in touch with us right now to start your own Vietnamese journey!

Read more: Things to do in Ninh Binh: 10 must-do activities