Cat Ba to Ninh Binh Bus (Cat Ba Express recommend)​

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus, provided by a partner of Cat Ba Express - is a high-quality transportation service with a shuttle bus and limousine bus.

We provide a bus service from Cat Ba Island to Tam Coc - Ninh Binh daily with a comfortable bus.

With one combo package, including sharing a shuttle or limousine bus and ferry, we will take care of all the logistics of your journey from Cat Ba to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh.

The bus was founded with the motto Journey in comfort and luxury to meet the increasing need for tourism services of high quality.

Cat Ba to Ninh Binh Bus

Ninh Binh is renowned for Tam Coc, Trang An, Hoa Lu, Van Long, Cuc Phuong, especially after the Hollywood film "Kong Island" showcased its mythical beauty.

Our bus will take you to the center of Ninh Binh; from there, you can easily go to every corner of the city.

You can also book:

1. Round-trip bus Hanoi to Cat Ba tickets
2. Halong Bay to Hanoi bus
3. Hanoi to Halong Bay bus
4. Halong Bay to Cat Ba bus
5. Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus
6. Hanoi to Sapa bus
7. Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus
8. Ninh Binh to Cat Ba island bus
9. Ninh Binh to Halong Bay bus
10. Halong Bay to Ninh Binh bus

Why choose Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus?

The route from Cat Ba Island to Tam Coc – Ninh Binh is one of the most beautiful travel journeys in Northern Vietnam.

With our combo package including bus + ferry, you won’t have to worry about transfers, luggage, or tickets — everything is perfectly organized from your hotel in Cat Ba to your destination in Ninh Binh.

Read what people say about Cat Ba Express on Tripadvisor before booking.

Itinerary Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus

1. Hotel pick-up if you stay in Cat Ba Town or on the way to Cai Vieng port (travel time: 40 minutes).
2. Travel from Cai Vieng port to Got port by ferry.
3. Travel via Highway 10 to Ninh Binh City. Drop-off at Hoa Lu Hotel.
4. Travel to Tam Coc, Drop-off at Duc Tuan Hotel or Tam Coc boat station.

Timetable Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus

Travel time ~ 4,5 - 5 hours

How to book?

1. Book online with the booking box on this website. Click book ticket.
2. Hotline: +84 84 824 4999 (WhatsApp/ Call).
3. Send your request to info@catbaexpress.com.

Shuttle Bus Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh Picture

FAQs about Cat Ba to Ninh Binh Bus

1. How long does it take to travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh by bus?

The total travel time from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh by bus is around 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the ferry schedule between Cai Vieng Port and Got Port.

The journey includes three main segments:

1. A hotel pick-up in Cat Ba Town, where passengers board the shuttle or limousine bus.
2. A ferry transfer across the bay (about 30 minutes) connecting Cat Ba Island to the mainland.
3. A smooth drive through Highway 10 towards Ninh Binh City and Tam Coc.

During the trip, you can relax, enjoy free Wi-Fi, and admire the peaceful countryside of Northern Vietnam. Many travelers describe this as one of the most scenic transfers in Vietnam, especially when traveling with a Cat Ba Express partner bus.

2. Where does the bus drop passengers off in Ninh Binh?

The Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus conveniently drops passengers at central Ninh Binh, including popular tourist spots such as Tam Coc, Trang An, or Hoa Lu.
Most commonly, drop-off points include:

• Duc Tuan Hotel or Tam Coc Boat Station for travelers joining boat tours.
• Hoa Lu Hotel for those staying in the city center.

This strategic drop-off location allows easy access to Ninh Binh’s most iconic attractions like Trang An Grottoes, Mua Cave (Hang Múa), and Bai Dinh Pagoda, saving you time and extra transfer costs.

3. Is the ferry ticket included in the bus fare?

Yes, the Cat Ba to Ninh Binh transfer package already includes both the bus and ferry tickets. That means you won’t need to buy separate ferry passes or worry about changing vehicles midway.

Our team will organize all transfers - from your hotel in Cat Ba to the ferry port, across the sea, and then to Ninh Binh.

The seamless combo makes this Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus service one of the most convenient and hassle-free options available.

4. Can I book a return ticket from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba?

Absolutely! You can easily book a round-trip Cat Ba – Ninh Binh – Cat Ba ticket directly through Cat Ba Express or its trusted partner.

Booking a return ticket not only guarantees your seat but also helps you save money compared to one-way bookings. The Ninh Binh to Cat Ba bus follows the same route and comfort level, including ferry transfer and hotel drop-off.

It’s an ideal choice for travelers planning to stay a few nights in Ninh Binh before heading back to Cat Ba Island.

5. What is the difference between the shuttle bus and limousine bus?

The main difference lies in comfort, space, and service level:

Shuttle Bus:

• Affordable and suitable for budget travelers.
• Standard soft seats, air-conditioning, and bottled water.
• Ideal for solo travelers or backpackers.

Limousine Bus:

• Fewer seats (9–17 seats only), giving passengers more personal space.
• Equipped with leather massage chairs, USB charging ports, Wi-Fi, and cold towels.
• Perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking a more luxurious travel experience.

No matter which type you choose, both buses are modern, clean, and operated by professional drivers ensuring a safe Cat Ba to Ninh Binh travel experience.

6. When is the best time to travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

The best time to take the Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus is during the dry season, from September to April.

During these months, the weather is pleasant — cool air, clear skies, and ideal for outdoor sightseeing in Tam Coc, Trang An, or Cuc Phuong National Park.

If you travel between May and August, expect warmer weather with occasional light rain, but this period offers lush green rice fields and fewer crowds.

No matter the season, the Cat Ba Express bus service ensures comfort and safety throughout your journey.

7. Can I bring luggage on the Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus?

Yes, you can! Each passenger is allowed to bring one large suitcase (up to 20kg) and one small handbag or backpack on the bus.

For larger items like bicycles, surfboards, or musical instruments, please inform us in advance when booking so we can arrange additional space.

Our Cat Ba to Ninh Binh limousine buses are equipped with spacious luggage compartments, and the staff will help you load and unload your bags carefully at every stop.

8. Are there rest stops along the way?

Yes. The bus makes a short rest stop midway between Got Port and Ninh Binh for passengers to use restrooms, buy snacks, or stretch their legs.

This break usually lasts around 10–15 minutes, ensuring everyone remains comfortable throughout the 4.5-hour trip.

The rest area is clean, with local snacks, drinks, and souvenirs — a nice touch on your Cat Ba to Ninh Binh travel experience.

9. Can I book the Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus last minute?

While last-minute booking is possible (especially during low season), we highly recommend reserving your seat at least one day in advance, particularly if you prefer the limousine bus.

During weekends or holidays, buses tend to sell out quickly due to the high number of tourists traveling between these two destinations. Booking early ensures you get your preferred departure time and seat type.

10. Is it safe to travel by bus from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh?

Yes, absolutely. The Cat Ba to Ninh Binh bus is operated by experienced local drivers trained for long-distance and ferry connections. All vehicles are maintained regularly and follow strict safety standards.

Additionally, passengers are fully covered by travel insurance during the trip — making this one of the safest and most reliable ways to travel between Cat Ba Island and Ninh Binh.

Read more →

1. → Cat Ba Island, Vietnam - an unforgettable holiday
2. → The top 15 hotels in Cat Ba Island
3. → Lan Ha Bay – the forgotten paradise