Complete guide: Traveling from Hue to Halong Bay
Traveling from Hue to Halong Bay offers an incredible opportunity to experience two of Vietnam’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
From the rich imperial history of Hue to the breathtaking limestone karsts of Halong Bay, this journey showcases the country’s cultural and natural diversity.
This article provides some suggestions to help you have a more complete and smoother exploration trip with travel options such as airplane, train, or limousine bus.
Why travel from Hue to Halong Bay
Before exploring the journey from Hue to Halong Bay, let’s take a look at some highlights of these two regions:
- Hue: Hue was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site on December 11, 1993, for its Imperial City complex, including the Citadel, Imperial City, Forbidden Purple City, royal tombs, and temples.
- Halong Bay: Ha Long Bay, a top destination in Vietnam, was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 1994 for its beauty and in 2000 for its geological value, featuring limestone islands and stunning caves.
A trip from Hue to Halong Bay offers a blend of imperial history and stunning natural beauty, with Hue’s architecture and traditions followed by Halong Bay’s seascapes, caves, and floating villages. Experiencing the transition from Hue to Halong Bay offers a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s diverse charm.
The best ways to get from Hue to Halong Bay
Sleeper Buses
For those who love traveling from Hue to Halong Bay with comfortable trips where they can rest and enjoy the most authentic natural scenery, traveling by sleeper bus will be the most suitable choice.
| Pros | Cons |
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Some reputable sleeper bus service companies that travelers can refer to:
| Bus Company | Price | Phone number |
| Viet Son Anh | 400.000 VND/person | 0914 156 246 |
| Hung Duc | 400.000 VND/person | 0971 576 576 |
| Van Luc Tung | 485.000 VND/person | 0915 363 377 |
Flights
Direct flights from Hue to Hanoi
If tourists do not like sitting in a car for a long time, traveling from Hue to Hanoi and then from Hanoi to Halong Bay by other means of transportation is also one of the options. Passengers can depart from Hue with Phu Bai International Airport and arrive at Noi Bai International Airport:
- Distance: 670 km
- Time: 1 hours 15 mins
Some budget airlines with good service quality that travelers can consider for their journey:
- Vietjet Air
- Vietnam Airlines
- Pacific Airline
When arriving in Hanoi, travelers can choose to take road transportation or a seaplane to continue directly to Halong Bay.
Seaplane tours from Hanoi to Halong Bay
If travelers choose to travel from Hue to Halong Bay via the Hanoi gateway, they should try the seaplane tours at least once. This is currently the fastest means of transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay:
- Price: from 9.000.000 VND/person
- Travel time:
- Transfer only: 45 minutes
- Transfer and 15-minute scenic flight: 60 minutes
Some companies are currently offering seaplane services that tourists can consider:
| Company | Link | Phone number |
| Hai Au Aviation | 0962 069 689 | |
| Bhaya | 0933 446 542 | |
| BestPrice Travel | 0904 699 428 |
Trains
Trains from Hue to Hanoi
Another interesting option for the journey from Hue to Halong Bay via Hanoi is to take the train. A suitable option for travelers who wish to admire the natural scenery along the route from Hue to Hanoi. This journey will start at Hue Station and end at Hanoi Station.
- Hue Station: 02 Bui Thi Xuan Street, Phuong Duc Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
- Hanoi Station: 120 Le Duan Street, Cua Nam Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
To get to Hue station, passengers can take the following bus routes:
| Bus route | Price | Frequency | Stopover |
| Bus route number 1 | From 5.000 VND/person | 15-20 minutes/trip | Passing through the central streets:
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| Bus route number 2 | From 5.000 VND/person | 15-20 minutes/trip | Passing through:
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| Bus route number 5 | From 5.000 VND/person | 15-20 minutes/trip | Running through the city center, there is a stop near Hue Station. |
Limousine buses from Hanoi to Halong Bay
After traveling from Hue to Hanoi, passengers can use limousine buses to continue directly to Halong Bay without having to stop along the way or change stations.
Limousine buses are one of the most chosen means of transportation for the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay due to their convenience and safety.
Some reputable companies providing limousine services that travelers can consider:
| Bus company | Price | Frequency | Schedule | Phone number |
| Hoang Phu | 240.000 VND/person | 16 trips/day | 04:00- 19:00 | 0333 161 718 |
| Duy Khanh | 260.000 VND/person | Every 1 hour | 05:00- 20:00 | 0886 323 535 |
| Ha Long Travel | 260.000 VND/person | Every 1 hour | 05:00- 21:00 | 0981 413 413 |
Comparison 3 options of transport
Based on the overall reviews below, travelers will easily compare and choose the most suitable means of transportation and travel plan for their journey from Hue to Halong Bay:
| Factors | Sleeper Bus | Flight | Train |
| Cost | Most affordable | More expensive, especially with transfers | Moderate, but requires additional transfers |
| Comfort | Less comfortable for long journeys | High comfort, especially on flights | Comfortable, but varies by class |
| Speed | Slow (about 15+ hours) | Fastest option (1-1.5 hours to Hanoi) | Moderate (about 14 hours to Hanoi) |
| Scenic Views | Enjoy natural scenery during the journey | Limited scenic views from the plane | Offers scenic views along the route |
| Additional Transfers | No transfers, direct travel | Requires transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay | Requires transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay |
Travel tips for a smooth journey
Book early during peak seasons
Planning a trip from Hue to Halong Bay during peak seasons requires early booking to secure the best deals on transportation and accommodation.
High demand during holidays and festivals, such as Tet, can lead to increased prices and limited availability.
You need to book the tickets about 2 months before the travel date to get the best price.
Some popular ticket-booking applications
| Website | Link | Pros |
| Traveloka |
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| Agoda |
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| Booking |
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Pack for long trips
When traveling from Hue to Halong Bay, it’s essential to pack wisely for the journey. A typical trip can take 12-15 hours, depending on the mode of transportation. Include essentials like
- Water
- Travel pillow for long-haul comfort
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Urgent medicine
- Identification documents
Choose the right transportation for your needs
Choosing the best transportation from Hue to Halong Bay depends on your budget and preferences.
Options include sleeper buses for affordability, trains for scenic views, or flights to save time.
A flight from Hue to Hanoi followed by a shuttle to Halong Bay is ideal for those with tight schedules.
Research your options to balance time and cost effectively.
Conclusion
Traveling from Hue to Halong Bay is a rewarding experience that combines Vietnam’s historical richness with its natural beauty.
By choosing the right mode of transport and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Whether you’re exploring Hue’s imperial past or cruising Halong Bay’s emerald waters, this trip will leave you with lasting memories.
