15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
15 Ng. 100 Đ. Nguyễn Xiển, Thanh Xuân Nam, Thanh Xuân, Hà Nội 100000
Travelers visiting northern Vietnam are frequently curious about the best ways to reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi. Among all transportation options, taking the Hanoi to Ninh Binh train stands out as one of the most peaceful, scenic and culturally rich ways to experience the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside. Whether you’re a backpacker, a photographer, a slow-travel lover or simply someone who appreciates a comfortable and picturesque journey, this train route offers a unique travel experience.
The train ride is not only affordable and relaxing but also a great introduction to rural landscapes, rice fields, quiet villages and local life. It’s an excellent choice for travelers heading to Ninh Binh for boat rides at Trang An or Tam Coc, photography adventures at Mua Cave, cultural explorations at Hoa Lu or spiritual visits to Bai Dinh Pagoda.
In this complete guide, you will learn everything you need to know about traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by train, including travel times, ticket types, schedules, tips, itineraries and how to make your journey even smoother with local tourism experts such as Golden Trail Travel (https://goldentrailtravel.com/).
This is your full travel guide, packed with expert insight and written to help you plan the perfect trip.
Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by train is one of the most enjoyable ways to slow down and take in the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside. As the train leaves the bustling capital, the scenery gradually transforms:
From city streets to open fields
From modern buildings to small homes and pagodas
From traffic noise to the gentle rhythm of railway travel
From dense urban zones to peaceful rice paddies
You’ll watch farmers tending crops, water buffalo grazing, and villages passing by out the window. For photographers, this journey is a goldmine for vibrant rural life.
The train ride lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect short-distance travel experience. You don’t need to worry about traffic, navigation or sudden stops. Simply board the train, sit back and relax.
Trains in Vietnam offer:
Soft seats
Hard seats
Air-conditioned cabins
Sleeper options (for connecting journeys)
Clean and safe conditions
This is especially ideal for families, older travelers or anyone who prefers comfort over adventure.
Compared to private cars or limousine buses, the Hanoi to Ninh Binh train is usually the most economical mode of transportation. While ticket prices vary depending on the type of seat, overall the train gives you excellent value at a lower cost.
It’s a favorite choice among backpackers and long-term travelers exploring Vietnam on a budget.
Train travel has a significantly lower carbon footprint than private cars or motorbikes. If you are a traveler who prioritizes sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, choosing the train is a responsible way to reach Ninh Binh.
Upon arrival at Ninh Binh Train Station, you can seamlessly join a pre-arranged tour with Golden Trail Travel, ensuring a stress-free continuation of your journey.
You can explore their Ninh Binh tours at
https://goldentrailtravel.com/
Their team can arrange:
Pickup from Ninh Binh train station
Full-day Ninh Binh itineraries
Private or group tours
Custom itineraries for photography, families or adventurers
Booking ahead makes your train-to-tour transition simple and efficient.
The distance between Hanoi and Ninh Binh is around 95 to 105 km. By train, the journey usually takes between:
2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes
Factors influencing travel time:
Type of train (SE trains are faster than slower regional trains)
Number of stops
Weather conditions
The entire journey is direct, with no transfers needed.
While schedules may vary throughout the year, these are typical durations:
SE5, SE7: Around 2 hours 15 minutes
SE19, SE35: Around 2 hours
Slower trains: Up to 2.5 hours
Travelers who prefer comfort tend to choose SE-class trains.
A very popular option among tourists. Soft seats provide:
Comfortable cushioned seating
Air conditioning
Spacious windows
Smooth ride quality
Ideal for families, couples and older travelers.
These seats are simpler but still comfortable, and budget-friendly. Best suited for backpackers or short-term travelers who prioritize cost savings.
Some trains have sleeper berths, commonly used for long overnight routes such as Hanoi to Hue or Hanoi to Da Nang. They are less necessary for the short Hanoi–Ninh Binh route but still available on certain trains.
For most travelers, the best option is:
Soft seat, air-conditioned
It provides the perfect balance of comfort and affordability.
There are several ways to buy your train tickets:
At Hanoi Train Station ticket counters
Through authorized local travel agencies
Through tour operators such as Golden Trail Travel
Via online Vietnamese train booking services
For visitors who want a hassle-free experience, the easiest and safest option is to book through a trusted local tour operator like Golden Trail Travel.
They can arrange:
Tickets based on your preferred class
Hotel pickup
Post-train tours in Ninh Binh
Explore their services at
https://goldentrailtravel.com/
If you choose to buy at the station, arrive early. Hanoi Railway Station can be busy during holidays and weekends, and lines can be long.
Advantages:
Direct communication with staff
Ability to choose your seat category on-site
Disadvantages:
Possible language barrier
Risk of sold-out seats
Time-consuming
Because Ninh Binh is a major destination, trains can fill up quickly—especially during weekends and high travel seasons.
Booking multiple days in advance ensures:
Better seat choices
Stress-free travel
Smooth coordination with tours
Most trains to Ninh Binh depart from:
Hanoi Railway Station, 120 Lê Duẩn, Hoàn Kiếm District
Features include:
Waiting lounges
Snack shops
Clean restrooms
Large signboards for train numbers
Easy taxi and Grab access
Arrive at least 30 minutes to 1 hour early to avoid rushing.
The station sits close to:
Ninh Binh city center
Trang An
Tam Coc
Mua Cave
Hoa Lu
Bai Dinh Pagoda
From the station, you can easily connect to taxis or pre-arranged tours. Golden Trail Travel can arrange pickup directly from the station to your preferred attractions or hotel.
Book in advance at:
https://goldentrailtravel.com/
Most travelers head directly to the region’s iconic attractions. Here are the top stops:
A breathtaking boat trip through:
Limestone caves
Clear emerald rivers
Hidden shrines
Towering cliffs
Famous for:
Golden rice fields
Peaceful rivers
Dramatic karst scenery
Perfect for photography.
The best viewpoint in Ninh Binh, known for:
500-step climb
Dragon statue ridge
Views of river valleys and rice fields
A cultural highlight featuring:
Temples of King Dinh and King Le
Ancient gates
Historic courtyards
One of Vietnam’s largest religious sites, with:
Giant Buddha statues
Panoramic mountain views
Peaceful gardens
Ride through:
Rice paddies
Rural villages
Narrow pathways
Beautiful countryside views
Cycling is often included in Golden Trail Travel’s tour packages.
Morning:
Take an early train from Hanoi
Arrive at Ninh Binh station
Meet your Golden Trail Travel guide
Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Midday:
Lunch at a local restaurant
Boat ride at Trang An or Tam Coc
Afternoon:
Cycle through rice paddies
Climb Mua Cave viewpoint
Evening:
Return to Hanoi by limousine (optional)
Or stay overnight in Ninh Binh
Day 1:
Morning train from Hanoi
Trang An boat ride
Mua Cave viewpoint
Overnight in Tam Coc
Day 2:
Tam Coc boat ride
Cycling
Bich Dong Pagoda
Return to Hanoi by train or car
Perfect for slow travelers or photography enthusiasts.
Golden Trail Travel is a trusted local operator providing exceptional, reliable and customizable tours.
Professional English-speaking guides
Comfortable vehicles
Flexible schedules
Custom itineraries
Family-friendly options
Station pickup available
Easy online booking
They offer a wide range of Ninh Binh tour packages you can explore at:
https://goldentrailtravel.com/
Arrive early at the train station
Keep your passport handy
Bring snacks and water
Wear comfortable clothing
Keep your valuables secure
Book your tour ahead of arrival
Choose a soft seat for maximum comfort
“A peaceful way to reach Ninh Binh”
“The train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh was surprisingly relaxing. Golden Trail Travel picked us up right from the station, and the tour was unforgettable.”
— Melissa, Australia
“Best day trip during our Vietnam journey”
“The scenery was amazing. After arriving by train, we explored Trang An and Mua Cave. The guide from Golden Trail Travel was fantastic.”
— Anthony, United Kingdom
“Smooth, easy and beautiful”
“I prefer trains over buses, and this was perfect. Booking through Golden Trail Travel made everything simple.”
— Joanna, United States
How long does the train take from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
Around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Is the train comfortable?
Yes, especially the soft seat air-conditioned options.
Where does the train arrive in Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh Train Station, close to major attractions.
Can Golden Trail Travel pick me up from the station?
Yes. Book at https://goldentrailtravel.com/.
Do trains run daily?
Yes, with multiple departures each day.
Is the train better than bus travel?
It depends. The train is scenic and comfortable. The bus can be faster.
The short answer is yes. The Hanoi to Ninh Binh train is an excellent, tranquil and budget-friendly way to reach one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, the train offers:
Comfort
Scenic countryside views
Relaxation
Affordable pricing
Easy transfers to local tours
When paired with a well-organized Ninh Binh itinerary from Golden Trail Travel, your journey becomes even more seamless and enriching.
Book your Ninh Binh adventure with Golden Trail Travel at:
https://goldentrailtravel.com/
