Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Tho Xuan Airport (THD) to Ninh Binh is by pre-booked private transfer or taxi, taking 1.5 to 2 hours and costing ~$35-$50 USD. For budget travelers, the cheapest option is a combination of local bus to Thanh Hoa and then train to Ninh Binh, costing under $10 USD but taking 3-4 hours. There is no direct rail or airport shuttle connecting the two points.
Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh: Journey Overview
Tho Xuan Airport (IATA: THD) serves Thanh Hoa province and is the closest airport to the popular tourist destination of Ninh Binh, located approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) to the north. Unlike major international hubs, THD has limited integrated transport, requiring planning. Your choice depends on budget, time, group size, and comfort.
Key Challenge: There is no single direct public transport route. All journeys involve at least one mode change or a direct road transfer.
Option 1: Taxi or Private Transfer (Most Convenient)
This is the most recommended method for most travelers, especially those with luggage, families, or arriving on late flights.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Pre-book Online (Highly Advised): Use platforms like Klook or GetTransfer to book a car in advance. Drivers meet you at arrivals with a sign.
- Airport Taxi Counters: Official counters (like Mai Linh, Taxi Xanh SM) are inside the terminal. Agree on a fixed price or ensure the meter is used.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab operates in the area. However, connection and driver availability at THD can be inconsistent.
Detailed Costs & Providers:
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Cost (VND) | Approx. Cost (USD) | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 4-seat Taxi (Metered) | 800,000 - 1,100,000 | $35 - $48 | 1.5 - 2 hrs | Couples, solo travelers |
| Pre-booked Private Sedan | 900,000 - 1,200,000 | $40 - $52 | 1.5 - 2 hrs | Preference for fixed price |
| 7-Seater Private Minivan | 1,500,000 - 2,000,000 | $65 - $87 | 1.5 - 2 hrs | Families (4+), groups |
Route: The driver will take you via QL1A/CT.01 highway or DT477, a straightforward road journey.
Pros: Door-to-door service, 24/7 availability, comfortable, fast. Cons: Highest cost, dependent on traffic on QL1A.
Option 2: Public Bus & Intercity Coach (Most Economical)
This is the budget-friendly choice, ideal for solo backpackers or those not pressed for time.
Two Practical Bus Strategies:
A) Local Bus to Thanh Hoa, then Coach to Ninh Binh
- Airport to Thanh Hoa City: Exit the airport and walk ~10 mins to the main road (QL47) to catch a local bus (like Route 05) to Thanh Hoa Central Bus Station. Fare: ~15,000 VND. This leg can be unpredictable.
- Thanh Hoa to Ninh Binh: At Thanh Hoa bus station, board a frequent intercity coach (operators like Hoang Long, Duyen Ha) heading north to Ninh Binh. Fare: ~70,000 - 100,000 VND. Travel time: ~1.5 hours.
Total: ~2.5-3.5 hours | ~85,000 - 120,000 VND ($3.50 - $5 USD).
B) Direct(ish) Mini-Bus/Shuttle (If Available)
Sometimes shared minivans operate from near the airport directly to Ninh Binh, but they are not official or scheduled. Ask at airport information or look for drivers soliciting passengers. Caution: Negotiate price firmly before getting in.
Bus Travel Insights:
- Luggage: Space is limited. Large backpacks are usually stored below, but keep valuables with you.
- Frequency: Buses from Thanh Hoa to Ninh Binh run every 20-30 mins from ~5:30 AM to ~6:00 PM.
- Arrival Point: You'll arrive at Ninh Binh Central Bus Station (Ben Xe Ninh Binh), from where you can take a local taxi or “xe om” (motorbike taxi) to your final hotel.
Option 3: Train via Thanh Hoa City (Scenic but Complex)
This method involves combining road and rail. It's not the most efficient for this route but offers a cultural experience and scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside.
The Journey Broken Down:
- THD Airport to Thanh Hoa Railway Station (Ga Thanh Hoa): First, you must cover the ~45 km gap. Take a taxi (~600,000 VND / 50 mins) or local bus (complex, as above) to the train station in Thanh Hoa city.
- Train from Thanh Hoa to Ninh Binh Station (Ga Ninh Binh): Purchase a ticket for the Reunification Express (North-South railway line). Multiple classes available:
- Hard Seat: Basic, cheap (~80,000 VND).
- Soft Seat: More comfortable (~120,000 VND).
- Hard/Soft Sleeper: Not necessary for this short leg.
Train Schedule & Booking:
Trains run multiple times daily. Check current schedules on the official Vietnam Railways website or use booking portals like Baolau or 12Go.Asia. The train journey itself is about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Total Door-to-Door Time: 3.5 - 4.5 hours. Total Cost: ~680,000 - 800,000 VND ($29 - $35 USD) if using taxi for the first leg.
Verdict: Only recommended for train enthusiasts or if you have a very long layover in Thanh Hoa.
Cost & Time Comparison: Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Cost (VND) | Travel Time | Comfort / Convenience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer / Taxi | $35 - $50 | 800k - 1.2M | 1.5 - 2 hrs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Door-to-door) | Most travelers, families, groups |
| Intercity Bus (via Thanh Hoa) | $3.50 - $5 | 85k - 120k | 2.5 - 3.5 hrs | ⭐⭐ (Multiple changes) | Solo budget travelers |
| Train (via Thanh Hoa) | $29 - $35* | 680k - 800k* | 3.5 - 4.5 hrs | ⭐⭐⭐ (Scenic but complex) | Train enthusiasts, scenic travel |
| Rental Car (Self-drive) | $40 - $70/day + fuel | N/A | 1.5 - 2 hrs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Flexibility) | Experienced drivers planning to explore region |
*Cost assumes taxi from airport to Thanh Hoa station. Significantly cheaper if using local bus for that leg, but time increases.
Winner for Convenience: Private Transfer. Winner for Budget: Public Bus.
Traveler Tips & Insider Insights for the Journey
Essential Pre-Trip Advice:
- Currency: Have plenty of small Vietnamese Dong (VND) notes. Taxi drivers and bus conductors often lack change for large bills.
- Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card (Viettel, Vinaphone) at the airport for data to use maps and ride-hailing apps.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have heavy bags, just take a taxi. The cost savings from buses are negated by the hassle.
- Traffic Awareness: Road travel time can double during Vietnamese holidays (Tet, Reunification Day). Plan accordingly.
Navigating Tho Xuan Airport (THD):
THD is small. After collecting bags, you'll exit directly into the arrivals hall. Official taxi desks are on your left. For public transport, you must exit the terminal and walk to the main road.
Upon Arrival in Ninh Binh:
Ninh Binh city is spread out. If your hotel is in Tam Coc or Trang An (the main tourist areas, ~7km from the city center), you'll need an additional 15-20 minute taxi ride from the bus station or train station. Factor this into your total cost and time.
FAQs: Getting from Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh
What is the cheapest way to get from Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh city center?
The cheapest option is the local public bus (Route XX), costing only around 25,000 - 40,000 VND ($1 - $1.70 USD). However, it involves a walk from the airport to the main road and may have limited schedule and space for luggage.
Is there a direct train from Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh?
No, there is no direct train. Tho Xuan Airport (THD) does not have a train station. The most common route is to take a taxi or bus from the airport to Thanh Hoa Railway Station (approx. 45km away), then catch a train to Ninh Binh Station. This journey takes 3-4 hours total.
How much is a taxi from Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh and how long does it take?
A metered taxi or pre-booked private car takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs between 800,000 to 1,200,000 VND ($35 - $50 USD). It's the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for families or groups with luggage.
Can I use a Vietnam Railway Pass for the journey from Tho Xuan to Ninh Binh?
The Vietnam Railway Pass is not commonly used or practical for this specific short leg. It's more cost-effective to book a single train ticket from Thanh Hoa to Ninh Binh, which costs only about 80,000 - 150,000 VND ($3.50 - $6.50 USD).
What is the best way to get to Ninh Binh if my flight arrives late at night?
For late-night arrivals (after 9 PM), your only reliable option is a pre-booked private transfer or taxi. Public buses and trains from Thanh Hoa will have stopped running. Pre-booking is highly recommended to ensure availability.
Is it better to fly into Tho Xuan Airport or Noi Bai (Hanoi) for visiting Ninh Binh?
For efficiency and cost, flying into Tho Xuan Airport is better if you find a direct flight, as it's only ~90km from Ninh Binh. Flying into Hanoi's Noi Bai (HAN) is more common but involves a 2-3 hour drive south to Ninh Binh, which can be more tiring after a long flight.
Where do buses from Tho Xuan Airport to Ninh Binh depart and arrive?
Most intercity buses do not enter the airport. You need to take a short taxi (5-10 mins) to the Thanh Hoa Central Bus Station. Buses from there arrive at Ninh Binh Central Bus Station (near the city center). The total journey takes about 2.5-3 hours.
What are essential tips for first-time travelers making this journey?
1. Pre-book private transfers for hassle-free arrival. 2. Have small Vietnamese Dong notes for bus/taxi. 3. Use the Grab app for reliable taxi fares. 4. If taking the train, allow ample time for the 45km transfer from airport to Thanh Hoa station. 5. Keep luggage light for easier public transport use.