Getting Around Haiphong
Haiphong is Vietnam's third-largest city and offers several options for moving around as a visitor. The city is served by road, rail, and water transport, with taxis and ride-hailing services available alongside public buses. Most neighborhoods are accessible by a combination of these methods, though you may find walking practical for exploring specific districts.
Public Buses
Buses operate within Haiphong and connect to nearby destinations. To reach Đồ Sơn Beach, located southeast of the city, you can board a bus marked "Đồ Sơn" from Lạch Tray Street. Bus fares are affordable, making this a budget-friendly option for getting around.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available throughout Haiphong for point-to-point travel within the city. They also serve as a convenient option from Cat Bi International Airport to your destination. If you prefer a private vehicle for longer distances, a taxi or private car from Hanoi to Haiphong typically costs around US$80 one way, though travel taxi companies may offer cheaper rates.
Water Transport and Ferries
As a coastal city, Haiphong has ferry services connecting to nearby islands. The main ferry terminal is located at Phà Bình (3 Phà Bình) on Cù Chính Lan Street at the northern end. Fast hydrofoils run several times daily to and from Cat Ba Island. Fares to Cat Ba Island can reach up to 100,000 dong. Be cautious of unofficial vendors at ferry terminals who may attempt to sell inflated tickets; use the official terminal for reliable pricing.
Ferries also depart from the city center dock on Ben Binh Street at the port to Cat Ba Island.
Rail Network
Haiphong Railway Station is served by trains connecting to Hanoi's Long Bien station. Four trains operate daily on this route, with journey times just over two and a half hours. Air-conditioned soft-seat tickets are an affordable option for comfortable travel. Train travel offers a relaxed alternative to bus or car for reaching Hanoi.
Arriving from Cat Bi International Airport
Cat Bi International Airport is located just south of the city and has been recently modernized. Taxis are readily available at the airport for transport into the city center. Public transport options also serve the airport, providing budget-conscious visitors with an alternative to taxis. The airport is served by three main airlines—Jetstar, VietJetAir, and Vietnam Airlines—with mostly domestic routes and some international flights to Bangkok and Seoul.
Walkability
While no detailed walkability information is provided in the source material, Haiphong's city layout allows visitors to explore central neighborhoods on foot. The port area near the city center and districts accessible by Highway 356 offer pedestrian-friendly zones for exploring local attractions and dining.