Travel experience from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa

1. Overview of the journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa

1.1 Geographical location and distance

Quang Ninh is located in the Northeastern region of Vietnam, serving as an international trade gateway with a coastline of over 250 km. Quang Ninh boasts Ha Long Bay, a world natural heritage site, along with thousands of rocky islands and a unique marine ecosystem. Meanwhile, Thanh Hoa is likened to the “heart of the North Central Coast,” being both a heritage land and a bridge between the North and the Central region.

The distance from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa is about 270 km. (Source: Compiled)

The distance from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa varies depending on the starting point:

From Ha Long to the center of Thanh Hoa: about 270 km, equivalent to 4.5 - 5 hours of travel by car.

From Mong Cai to the center of Thanh Hoa: about 420 km, suitable for long journeys or tours exploring many northern provinces.

Most tourists often depart from Ha Long, as it is the tourist and economic center of Quang Ninh. At the same time, Ha Long connects directly to the Ha Long - Hai Phong - Nghi Son - Thanh Hoa expressway, making the journey faster, more convenient, and safer than ever.

1.2 Average travel time

Thanks to the completion of the Eastern North-South expressway system, the distance from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa has been significantly shortened. When traveling by car or limousine, the average time is only about 4.5 - 5 hours, depending on traffic density and rest stops along the route.

For motorbikes or personal vehicles, the journey takes 7 - 8 hours, suitable for those who love road trips, want to admire the coastal scenery, and stop at tourist attractions such as Hai Phong, Ninh Binh, or Sam Son before reaching the center of Thanh Hoa.

The journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa usually takes 4-5 hours. (Source: Collected)

The most ideal time to travel is the dry season (from October to April next year), when the weather is cool, with little rain, and good visibility. This period makes driving or exploring the journey safer and more comfortable.

The journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa is not just a route connecting two heritage lands but also opens up an experience throughout, from magnificent islands to a land of ancient culture, bearing the strong Vietnamese identity.

2. Main routes from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa

2.1 The fastest route: Ha Long - Hai Phong and Ninh Binh - Thanh Hoa expressways

Considered the most modern and convenient route, the Ha Long - Hai Phong - Ninh Binh - Thanh Hoa expressway is the top choice for tourists on the journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa. From the center of Ha Long, you travel along the Ha Long - Hai Phong expressway, then merge onto the Hanoi - Hai Phong route, continue with Phap Van - Cau Gie - Ninh Binh, and finally head straight into Thanh Hoa province.

Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway with modern infrastructure. (Source: Collected)

The total length of the route is about 280 km, with an average travel time of 4 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic volume. The road surface is designed to be wide, flat, with few intersections and a modern signage system, helping drivers feel comfortable, safe, and in control of their speed. Along the way, there are many rest stops, gas stations, and convenient service points, fully meeting passengers' needs for food, drink, and rest.

The toll fee for a 4-seater car ranges from approximately 180,000 to 220,000 VND, depending on the section. Although this fee is higher than national highways, the travel time is significantly reduced, the road is flat, safe, and less stressful - very suitable for those who prioritize fast, smooth, and comfortable travel.

2.2 National Highway 10 - National Highway 1A

If you prefer a slow journey with many cultural experiences, National Highway 10 - National Highway 1A is a worthwhile option. This route starts from Ha Long, passes through Uong Bi - Hai Phong - Thai Binh - Nam Dinh - Ninh Binh, and then continues along National Highway 1A to reach Thanh Hoa city center.

The total length of the route is about 262 km, with a travel time of 6 to 7 hours. This road passes through many residential areas and urban centers, especially Hai Phong and Nam Dinh, so it may take extra time during peak hours. Nevertheless, the fuel costs and tolls are significantly lower compared to the expressway, suitable for those who want to save costs and enjoy the local pace of life.

The biggest advantage of this route is the opportunity to explore regional culture and cuisine. Along the journey, visitors can stop to enjoy Hai Phong's 'bun ca' (fish vermicelli) and 'banh da cua' (crab noodle soup), Ninh Giang's 'banh gai' (thorn leaf cake), or Thanh Hoa's 'nem chua' (fermented pork roll), dishes rich in Northern Vietnamese identity.

3. Popular Means of Transport

3.1 Buses / Limousines

The bus and limousine system on the Quang Ninh - Thanh Hoa route is currently well-invested, offering many convenient options for tourists. Departures are regular every day from Ha Long, Cam Pha, Uong Bi, with a frequency of 1-2 trips per hour.

Thanh Trung bus company operates the Quang Ninh - Thanh Hoa route. (Source: Collected)

Some reputable bus companies chosen by many passengers include: Thanh Trung, Hoang Long, Hai Phuong, Duc Phuc….. The average travel time is from 5 - 6 hours, depending on the type of vehicle and traffic conditions.

Ticket prices range from 200,000 - 450,000 VND:

Standard sleeper bus: 200,000 - 250,000 VND.

VIP Limousine: 280,000 - 350,000 VND.

High-class Limousine (massage seats, Wi-Fi, snacks): about 400,000 - 450,000 VND.

Popular departure points are Bai Chay Bus Station, Ha Long Bus Station, or the bus companies' offices in the city center. Upon arrival in Thanh Hoa, buses usually drop off passengers at the North Bus Station, South Bus Station, the Big C Thanh Hoa area, or the city center.

3.2 Personal Car

Traveling by personal car is a preferred option for many tourists due to its flexibility and privacy. The Ha Long - Hai Phong and Ninh Binh - Thanh Hoa expressways are currently the optimal routes, reducing travel time to just over 4 hours if traveling continuously.

Many tourists choose private cars for the journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collected)

The average total cost for the journey is about 600,000 - 700,000 VND, including:

Fuel (4-seater car): 400,000 - 500,000 VND.

Highway tolls: 180,000 - 220,000 VND.

The biggest advantage of self-driving is the flexibility to stop, rest, or explore local cuisine along the way, such as Hai Phong's crab rice crackers to Thanh Hoa's fermented pork rolls.

3.3 Motorbike

For those who love backpacking and exploring freely, the approximately 260 km journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa is an experience worth trying. The average travel time is 7-8 hours, so it's advisable to divide the journey into 2-3 smaller segments for rest and refueling.

Fuel costs are only about 150,000 - 200,000 VND, depending on the type of vehicle. Along the way, you can stop at Do Son beach (Hai Phong), Tran Temple (Nam Dinh), or Hoa Lu ancient capital (Ninh Binh). These are all ideal stopping points for both rest and further exploration of regional culture.

4. Tips and Notes for Travel

To ensure the journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa is smooth, tourists can consider the following practical tips:

Choose the highway route when booking bus or limousine tickets, as it saves time and ensures a smoother, less bumpy journey compared to national roads.

Book tickets 1-2 days in advance during holidays, Tet, or weekends to avoid sold-out situations. If possible, choose middle seats on the bus to minimize motion sickness and bumpy sensations.

Depart early between 5 AM - 7 AM if driving a car, to avoid peak hours and arrive in Thanh Hoa before noon, making it easier to arrange sightseeing schedules.

Thoroughly check the vehicle's condition before departure: tires, brakes, cooling system, and fuel. Prepare extra drinks, snacks, and power banks for long journeys.

Monitor the weather forecast before the trip, especially during the rainy season (July - August), to have a more flexible and safer plan.

5. Combining Tourism in Thanh Hoa

5.1 Nghi Son Beach

Nghi Son Beach is an attractive destination for tourists who love a peaceful seaside atmosphere and natural scenery. The stretch of fine white sand embraces clear blue waters, with gentle waves lapping the shore, creating a relaxing scene, separate from the urban hustle and bustle.

The area around the beach is well-planned with many resorts and high-class villas, suitable for both family vacations and couples. Here, you can swim, fish, watch the sunrise, take wedding photos, or enjoy fresh seafood right at the pier. Notable specialties include charcoal-grilled lobster, steamed crab with beer, stir-fried sea snails with tamarind, and fish grilled in banana leaves, all carrying the rich flavors of the Central Vietnamese coast.

5.2 Pu Luong

Pu Luong is known as the "miniature Sapa" of Thanh Hoa thanks to its pristine beauty and year-round fresh climate. It features winding terraced fields, ancient Thai villages, and cool streams flowing through the valley.

Golden rice season in Pu Luong. (Source: Collected)

The ideal time to visit is May-June (planting season) and September-October (golden rice season). Popular activities include trekking through forests, cycling to explore Don village - Hieu village, camping in nature, and experiencing local culture with the local people.

5.3 Nui Nua - Am Tien Mountain

Nui Nua - Am Tien Mountain is one of the sacred sites in Thanh Hoa. It is associated with the legend of Ba Trieu, the proud heroine of the Vietnamese nation. The mountain is about 150 m high, surrounded by a system of natural caves, clear streams, and lush green forests year-round, creating a rare tranquil atmosphere.

The world's largest Buddha statue is being built at the “Legend of Am Tien” project. (Source: Collected)

Currently, this relic area is being oriented for development by Thanh Hoa province within the “Legend of Am Tien” project. The large-scale project is expected to become a leading spiritual tourism center in the North Central Coast region in the near future. The project combines ecological landscape and prominent spiritual space, offering a unique spiritual experience combined with resort relaxation.

The journey from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa in 2025 is not just a journey but also an opportunity to experience two regions with rich cultural identities. When you prepare thoroughly and choose suitable transportation, your trip will leave many meaningful memories.