Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Are you curious about the route from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh? We’ll outline the two routes and contrast them in terms of length, cost, and comfort level in this post. We’ll present thorough analyses of each choice to assist you in selecting the transportation provider and ticketing location.

Experiencing Ninh Binh: What to expect 

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh

In the north of Vietnam is a natural wonderland called Ninh Binh. The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, located near the sleepy village of Tam Coc, is located in the province.

Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to breathtaking views, limestone peaks, pagodas, and temples. The most well-liked activity is a boat cruise down the Trang An River, which offers a look into traditional rural life. Ninh Binh is breathtaking, with karst mountains and paddy terraces as a backdrop.

Ways to get from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

There are two ways to go from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh, which is 125 kilometers (78 miles) away: bus (3 hours 50 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes) and ferry + bus (4 hours 30 minutes). The fastest method is via bus, which takes 3 hours 50 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes. For the bus, the cheapest tickets start at 246,000 VND ($9.70).

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh by Bus

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh by Bus

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh by Bus

  • Duration: 3h 50m – 4h 30m
  • Starts from: 246,000 VND ($9.70)

One easy method to go straight from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh is to take a bus and boat together. Daiichi Travel and The Long Travel are two well-known businesses that travel this route.

From Cat Ba to Ninh Binh, the combination bus and boat often travels along this route:

  • The northeast shore of the island’s Cai Veng Port is reached by bus from Cat Ba town center.
  • After that, you’re taken to Benh Binh Harbor in Hai Phong via ferry or speedboat.
  • A bus is ready to transport you to Tam Coc or Ninh Binh from this dock.

The trip takes between three and four hours, and tickets start at 246,000 VND ($9.70).

Still, having trouble deciding where in Ninh Binh to stay? For information on why we believe you should visit Tam Coc rather than Ninh Binh, see our destination page for Ninh Binh.

Departure and arrival station:

Buses leave from Cat Ba town center; if you make a reservation with Daiichi Travel, you can also be picked up at your hotel.

The Long Travel also makes stops to drop off passengers in Ninh Binh City, although both companies park in the Tam Coc town center.

TIPS: In case you want to stay in Ninh Binh City, make sure the bus company stops there! We have heard stories of bus drivers who refused to stop in Ninh Binh City and argued that they were going to Ninh Binh province instead of the city.

Read more: Train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Train times & tickets

Bus + Ferry schedules from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Ferry from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Ferry from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

  • Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Starts from: 420,000 VND ($16.50)

About 30 kilometers distant, directly across Cat Ba, is the seaside city of Hai Phong. When traveling from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh, some visitors would rather stay briefly at Hai Phong before continuing on.

Are you among those travelers? If so, continue reading for a thorough tutorial!

Step 1: Cat Ba to Hai Phong by Ferry

  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Costs: 160,000 VND ($6.30)

You must take a 1.5-hour boat from Cat Ba Island to Hai Phong. One ticket costs $6.30, or 160,000 VND.

The best thing about these boats is that they leave from Cat Ba Pier, which is conveniently close to a lot of the town’s hotels.

About a kilometer north of the center of Hai Phong, near Benh Binh Harbour, is where ferries dock. You may take a quick cab journey or walk to your desired location within the city.

Step 2: Hai Phong to Ninh Binh by Bus

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Costs: 260,000 VND ($10.20)

You may easily catch a bus to Ninh Binh Province after seeing Hai Phong to your heart’s content.

Tam Coc and Hai Phong city center are served by two daily buses run by The Long Travel. Bus tickets are priced at 260,000 VND ($10.20) for a three-hour trip.

Buses leave from the Hai Phong city center’s Nha Hat Lon. In the heart of Tam Coc, they park at The Long Hotel.

Ask the driver in advance whether he may stop in the city to drop you off if you’re going to Ninh Binh City.

Frequently Asked Questions about CatBa to Ninh Binh

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

Q1: How can I book tickets for the journey from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

You can book tickets through various methods:

  • Online Booking: Many transportation companies offer online booking through their websites or through travel booking platforms.
  • Travel Agencies: You can book tickets through local travel agencies in Cat Ba.
  • Hotels/Hostels: Many hotels and hostels in Cat Ba can help arrange transportation and book tickets for you.

Q2: What is the best time to travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

The best time to travel is during the dry season, typically from October to April when the weather is more favorable. However, transportation services run year-round, so you can travel at any time of the year.

Q3: Are there any stops or attractions to visit along the way?

While the journey itself is relatively direct, some routes may pass through scenic areas. If you have time, you might consider stopping in Hai Phong to explore the city before continuing to Ninh Binh.

Q4: What should I bring for the journey?

For a comfortable journey, consider bringing:

  • Water and Snacks: Especially if you are traveling during a meal time.
  • Comfortable Clothing: The journey can take several hours.
  • Entertainment: Books, music, or other forms of entertainment to pass the time.
  • Travel Documents: Make sure to have your identification and any necessary tickets or reservations.

Q5: Is it possible to hire a private car or taxi from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

Yes, you can hire a private car or taxi for a more personalized and flexible travel experience. This option is more expensive, typically costing between 100 USD to 150 USD, but it offers convenience and comfort.

With Vietnam Allure Travel, set off on an incredible tour from the tranquil island of Cat Ba to the stunning scenery of Ninh Binh. This picturesque path combines amazing natural beauty, vibrant cultural events, and gorgeous coastline vistas. You’ll have a convenient and comfortable journey whether you opt for a direct bus service or a bus + boat combo. Come along for a seamless experience that highlights the most beautiful and varied scenery in Vietnam.

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