How to get there?
The journey to Mong Cai has been revolutionized by the completion of the comprehensive expressway system. As of 2026, traveling from the major hubs of Northern Vietnam is faster and more comfortable than ever before, thanks to the seamless connection of the Hanoi – Hai Phong and Hai Phong – Van Don – Mong Cai expressways.
1. From Hai Phong to Mong Cai
Being the closest major city to Mong Cai, Hai Phong offers the quickest transit times.
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By Private Car:
- Route: Take the CT.06 (Hai Phong – Ha Long – Van Don – Mong Cai Expressway). This route is "smooth as silk" and allows for a design speed of 120 km/h.
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Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Price: A 4-seater private car costs around 2,600,000 VND ($104 USD), while a 7-seater SUV is approximately 2,900,000 VND ($116 USD).
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By Bus / Limousine:
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Service: Several high-quality limousine vans and local coaches operate this route daily.
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Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.
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Price: Tickets range from 304,000 VND to 350,000 VND ($12 - $14 USD).
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Pick-up: Often from Vinh Niem Bus Station or central Hai Phong hotels.
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2. From Hanoi to Mong Cai
Hanoi serves as the primary departure point for international travelers, offering the widest variety of luxury transport.
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By Private Car:
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Route: Via the CT.04 (Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway) and then continuing onto the CT.06 to Mong Cai.
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Travel Time: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.
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Price: A one-way private SUV transfer averages 3,500,000 VND to 4,500,000 VND ($140 - $180 USD), inclusive of all expressway fees.
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By Limousine (Highly Recommended):
- Service: Premium 9-seater Dcar Limousines (like Duc Trong or Anh Tung) provide door-to-door service.
- Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours to 4 hours 40 minutes.
- Price: Standard rate is 450,000 VND ($18 USD) per seat.
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Pick-up: Inner-city Hanoi, My Dinh Bus Station, or Long Bien District.
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By Sleeper Bus:
- Service: Ka Long and other traditional bus lines.
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Travel Time: 6 to 8 hours (often overnight).
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Price: Approximately 375,000 VND ($15 USD).
3. From Ninh Binh to Mong Cai
For those finishing a tour of the "Halong Bay on Land," heading to the border is a straightforward southward-to-northeast journey.
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By Private Car:
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Route: Follow the QL10 toward Hai Phong, then merge onto the Hai Phong – Mong Cai Expressway.
- Travel Time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours.
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Price: Expect to pay between 4,500,000 VND and 5,500,000 VND ($180 - $220 USD) for a private SUV.
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By Bus:
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Service: Several operators like Ninh Binh Travel or Ninh Binh Excursion provide connections. Some routes may require a short transfer in Hai Phong or Ha Long.
- Travel Time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
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Price: Prices typically start from 400,000 VND to 550,000 VND ($16 - $22 USD).
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