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How to get from Luang Prabang to Ninh Binh
The fastest way from Luang Prabang to Ninh Binh is to fly to Hanoi (about 1 hour) and continue by car, bus or train to Ninh Binh (about 1 h 30 to 2 hours). Overland buses from Luang Prabang to Hanoi take about 20–26 hours over mountain roads.
Best option: Flight. A short flight to Hanoi saves a very long and tiring bus journey.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| flight Luang Prabang (LPQ) to Hanoi (HAN), with Lao Airlines or Vietnam Airlines, then road or train to Ninh Binh | about 4–5 h door to door | about 1–2 flights a day | about US$100–250 for the flight | Hanoi airport to Ninh Binh is about 2 h by car. |
| bus Overnight bus Luang Prabang – Hanoi, then bus or train to Ninh Binh | about 22–28 h total | about daily | about US$40–60 | Long and rough; border formalities on the way. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Check Vietnam visa rules or apply for an e-visa in advance.
- Ninh Binh trains leave from Hanoi station in the old quarter area.
- Book Hanoi–Ninh Binh transfers in advance.
- The overland bus is uncomfortable; flying is strongly recommended.
Common questions
Is there a direct flight to Ninh Binh?
No. Ninh Binh has no airport. Fly from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, about an hour, and then take a car, bus or train to Ninh Binh, which takes about 1 h 30 to 2 hours. Many hotels in Ninh Binh can arrange transfers.
Can I go by bus?
Yes, but it takes about 20 to 26 hours from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, crossing the Laos–Vietnam border. Then add the trip to Ninh Binh. The roads are mountainous and the bus is tiring. Pack food and water for the trip.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Many nationalities need a visa. Vietnam offers an e-visa for most nationalities. Check current requirements before travelling. The e-visa is usually issued within a few working days, so apply well before your trip. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
What is the cheapest way?
The bus is cheapest, but the flight saves a day or more. Flights booked early can be reasonably priced. Airfares from Luang Prabang can be higher than from Vientiane, so compare both if you are travelling through Laos. Booking a few weeks ahead usually helps.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.