Island in Hai Phong, Vietnam
Getting around Cat Ba
How to get around Cat Ba
From Hanoi, a bus-and-ferry combo reaches Cat Ba town in about 3.5–5 hours. On the island, walk the town, rent a scooter or take taxis and electric shuttles.
Ways to get around Cat Ba
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi–Cat Ba bus-and-boat ticket | About 250,000–400,000 VND | 3.5–5 h via Hai Phong; book through hostels or operators |
| Local bus and taxi | About 10,000–30,000 VND by bus | Buses run ferry terminal to town; taxis for beaches |
| Scooter rental | About 120,000–200,000 VND a day | Best for the national park and Cat Co beaches |
Taxis in Cat Ba
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No reliable ride apps; use metered taxis, electric shuttles or hotel-arranged drivers. Agree boat tour prices and inclusions in writing.
Arriving in Cat Ba
Cat Bi International (Hai Phong) (HPH)
Taxi or bus to the ferry terminal, then ferry and bus to Cat Ba, about 2.5–3 h and 150,000–300,000 VND. Many arrive from Hanoi instead.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rental is widespread and the island is a pleasant ride, but hills and wet roads cause crashes. A valid motorbike licence is required.
- Driving: on the right. Only 1968-Convention IDPs are valid (US ones aren't); unlicensed scooter riding is common but voids most insurance.
- Onward travel in Vietnam: Cheap flights (Vietjet, Vietnam Airlines) link Hanoi, Da Nang and Saigon; the coastal North–South railway and sleeper buses are slower, scenic alternatives.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Cat Ba?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No reliable ride apps; use metered taxis, electric shuttles or hotel-arranged drivers. Agree boat tour prices and inclusions in writing.
What's the best way to get around Cat Ba?
From Hanoi, a bus-and-ferry combo reaches Cat Ba town in about 3.5–5 hours. On the island, walk the town, rent a scooter or take taxis and electric shuttles.
How do I get from the airport to Cat Ba?
Taxi or bus to the ferry terminal, then ferry and bus to Cat Ba, about 2.5–3 h and 150,000–300,000 VND. Many arrive from Hanoi instead.
Is Cat Ba walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Cat Ba
Going to Cat Ba solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Cat Ba meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- Vietnam Railways
- Vietnam Airlines
- Vietjet Air
- Vietnam National Authority of Tourism
- Vinmec International Hospital
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.