How To Travel From Ho Chi Minh City To Halong Bay
Halong Bay is about as far away from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) as you can go. Ho Chi Minh City is in the most southern part of the country whereas Halong Bay is in the most northern part, close to the border. The distance between the two is a whopping 1700 kilometers (around 1050 miles).
- 1700 km is the distance between Ho Chi Minh city to Halong bay.
- Taking a 2 hour non-stop flight to Van Don airport is the most convenient and fastest way to get to Halong bay.
As we look ahead to 2026, there are several efficient options to traverse the distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Halong Bay.
Option 1: Fly Direct to the Nearest Airport to Halong Bay
The quickest option to reach Halong Bay (Van Don Airport) from Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat Airport) is by airplane, taking approximately two hours. Daily flights are available from Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways. One-way tickets generally start at around $70, with multiple early morning flights and one in the early afternoon.
Keep in mind that pricing can vary significantly between airlines, as higher-priced options often include beverages and meals, along with checked luggage. Always verify luggage allowances and whether food service is included in your fare.
Vietjet Air currently offers competitive fares from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don, starting from 1,650,000 VND.
Flight Timetable:
Airlines |
Departure |
Arrival |
Fares |
|---|---|---|---|
Vietjet Air |
SGN - 06:45 |
VDO - 09:05 |
VND 709,041 |
Vietjet Air |
SGN - 07:05 |
VDO - 09:20 |
VND 1,600,000 |
Vietnam Airlines |
SGN - 18:40 |
VDO - 20:50 |
VND 1,878,000 |
Option 2: Travel to Hanoi, Then Halong Bay
Consider traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and then arranging transport to Halong Bay. Visit our Hanoi to Halong Bay page for additional information.
Motorbike
For adventurous travelers with time to spare, journeying by motorbike is a unique way to experience Vietnam. Bikes can be rented in Ho Chi Minh City for about $12 per day or $300 monthly (Honda XR/CRF 150cc). Fuel is reasonably priced, typically around $1 per liter (0.26 gallons).
Reunification Train
The Reunification Express operates between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Trains depart several times daily, with the full journey lasting approximately 33 hours, so come prepared with ample supplies (water, snacks, etc.). Stops are available where food and beverages can be purchased, as well as service on board.
Keep in mind that service levels may not meet Western standards. It's advisable to stay close to the train during stops, as it may depart unexpectedly. You can find trains departing from the Saigon Railway Station located at 1 Nguyen Thong Street, Ward 9, District 3. Ticket prices start around $45, but consider paying an additional $20 for a berth to rest comfortably during the journey.
Sleeper Bus
The most economical option is the sleeper bus, with tickets priced around $45. The journey lasts approximately 25 hours. Although it's cheaper and faster, comfort may be sacrificed as the seats do not fully recline, and the view won't be as picturesque as from the train. Buses are typically a last resort when trains and flights are sold out. Be sure to check individual operators' websites for departure locations, which may vary by company.
Summary of Transport Options from Ho Chi Minh City to Halong
The most efficient and convenient option is flying to Van Don Airport, especially if you desire to reach Halong Bay promptly.
| Transport: | Plane | Bus | Train | Bike |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price: | 1,650,000 VND (Vietjet Air) | 1,050,000 VND (Via Bay Chay Station) | 1,060,000 VND (Via Hanoi) | 1,500,000 (Via highway 1, including rental fee) |
| Time: | 3 hours (including transfers) | 20-25 hours | 35-38 hours (including transfers from Hanoi to Halong Bay) | 35-40 hours |
