Cat Ba to Cao Bang – Complete Guide (Bus + Limousine via Hanoi)

Getting from Cat Ba Island to Cao Bang isn’t complicated, but it does involve a couple of transfers. There is no direct bus, so the usual way is to travel from Cat Ba to Hanoi first, then continue to Cao Bang by limousine. Most travelers follow this route because it’s the most reliable and the least tiring.

If you’re planning the trip for the first time, the guide below sums up the route, travel time, the exact pickup points, and how to book a ticket without confusion.

Quick Guide for Traveling from Cat Ba to Cao Bang 

The easiest way to travel from Cat Ba to Cao Bang is to go via Hanoi. You’ll take a tourist bus and a short speedboat to the capital, then switch to a 9–11-seat limousine for the mountain leg. The full journey takes around ten hours and costs 32 USD. 

Overview: How to Travel from Cat Ba Island to Cao Bang

The journey from the island to Cao Bang by bus spans roughly 450 kilometers and typically involves a quick layover in Hanoi. The trip is divided into two main segments:

Timetable & Ticket Price Cat Ba → Cao Bang

Price:

• 32 USD per passenger
• (Includes tourist bus, speedboat ticket, and limousine bus)

Schedule

Route	Departure Times	Duration
Cat Ba → Hanoi	08:30, 12:30	3–3.5 hours
Hanoi → Cao Bang	12:30, 16:00	6–7 hours
Total	—	~10–11 hours

Fast Booking (WhatsApp):

• +84 913 096 281
• +84 888 000 896

Cat Ba to Hanoi (Tourist Bus + Speedboat)

This part of the journey is usually undertaken by a tourist bus 35 or 45 seats, combining a speed boat crossing from Cat Ba Island to the mainland, followed by a bus ride to Hanoi.

Hanoi to Cao Bang (Limousine Bus)

From Hanoi, you switch to a limousine bus 9 to 11 seats, offering a more comfortable and premium travel experience, heading towards the mountainous terrain of Cao Bang.

Segment 1: Cat Ba to Hanoi by Tourist Bus

Timetable and Duration

• Departure Times: Tourist buses generally depart from Cat Ba in the early morning. Common departure times are around 8:30 AM and 12:30 PM to ensure you reach Hanoi.
• Total Duration: The journey from Cat Ba to Hanoi typically takes about 3-3.5 hours, including the speed boat crossing.

Pickup Points on Cat Ba Island

• Cat Ba Town: Most tourist buses pick up passengers from central locations in Cat Ba Town, especially from hotels in Cat Ba town.
• Ben Beo Pier: Another common pickup point is Ben Beo Pier.

Itinerary Details

Cat Ba Town to Cai Vieng Pier

• Start your journey from your hotel or a central pickup point in Cat Ba Town.
• The bus service will take you to Cai Vieng Pier, where you board the Speed boat to Got pier in Cat Hai Island – Hai Phong.
• Speed boat crossing from Cat Ba to Cat Hai Island – Hai Phong
• The speed boat ride from Cat Ba to the mainland typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Cat Hai Island – Hai Phong to Hanoi:

• Upon arrival at the Got pier speed boat, transfer to a tourist bus heading to Hanoi old quarter.
• The bus ride from Hai Phong to Hanoi takes about 2.5 hours, traversing the picturesque Red River Delta.

Segment 2: Hanoi to Cao Bang by Limousine Bus

Timetable and Duration

• Departure Times: Limousine buses to Cao Bang usually have multiple departures throughout the day, with popular times being afternoon (around 12:30 PM and 16:00 PM).
• Total Duration: The journey from Hanoi to Cao Bang takes approximately 6-7 hours.

Itinerary Details

Pickup in Hanoi:

• Pickup Points in Good Morning Cat Ba on google map: Office at 122 Tran Nhat Duat, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
• Board the limousine bus from your chosen pickup point, either in the Old Quarter.
  Enjoy the premium amenities offered by limousine buses, including reclining seats, air conditioning, Wi-Fi.

Bus Hanoi to Cao Bang

• The route takes you through the stunning landscapes of Northern Vietnam, with views of rolling hills, lush valleys, and traditional villages.
• Expect a few short stops along the way for refreshments and restroom breaks.

Booking Information (WhatsApp)

Direct Booking with Bus Company: Good Morning Cat Ba offer direct booking options via their websites or customer service

• Hotlines/WhatsApp: +84913096281/ +84888000896
• Email: info@goodmorningcatba.com

Practical Tips for the Journey

• Advance Booking: Given the popularity of these routes, especially during peak travel seasons, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance.
• Comfort Essentials: Bring a neck pillow, earplugs, and a light blanket or jacket for added comfort during the long bus ride.
• Snacks and Water: While both tourist and limousine buses offer some water is always a good idea.
• Motion Sickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand, especially for the winding roads towards Cao Bang.
• Travel Documents: Keep your identification and booking confirmations handy, as you may need to show them at various points during the journey.

Highlights of Cao Bang

• Upon reaching Cao Bang, you’ll find yourself in a region rich with natural beauty and historical significance. Some must-visit attractions include:
• Ban Gioc Waterfall: One of the most stunning waterfalls in Vietnam, located on the border with China.
• Pac Bo Cave: A historical site where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during the early days of the revolution.
• Quay Son River: Offering tranquil boat rides with beautiful views of the surrounding limestone mountains.

FAQ – Cat Ba → Cao Bang Route

Is there a direct bus from Cat Ba to Cao Bang?

No-there isn’t a straight-through bus on this route. Travelers usually go from Cat Ba to Hanoi first, then change to a limousine bus heading to Cao Bang. It’s the most dependable way to make the trip.

How long does the whole journey take?

If the connections line up, you’re looking at roughly 10 to 11 hours from Cat Ba to Cao Bang, including the speedboat crossing and the Hanoi transfer.

What’s the ticket price?

The full journey costs 32 USD per person, and that already includes the tourist bus, the speedboat ticket, and the limousine from Hanoi.

Where do I get picked up in Hanoi?

Most travelers meet the limousine at 122 Tran Nhat Duat, Hoan Kiem District, right on the edge of the Old Quarter. It’s easy to find, and the area is convenient for food and coffee while you wait.

How do I book the trip?

The quickest way is to message the operator on WhatsApp:
+84 913 096 281 or +84 888 000 896.
They confirm instantly and send your e-ticket right away.

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Traveling from Cat Ba to Cao Bang by bus via Hanoi is a memorable journey that allows you to experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

By combining a tourist bus and a VIP Luxury limousine bus, you can enjoy a comfortable and scenic trip across the country. Ensure you plan ahead, book your tickets in advance, and prepare for a long but rewarding travel experience.