Key hubs
Cat Ba airport and railway station
- Airport
- Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) at Hai Phong is the nearest, mostly domestic; Hanoi Noi Bai (HAN) is the usual gateway for flights from India. There is no airport on the island
- Railway station
- None on the island. The nearest is Hai Phong station, reached from Hanoi Long Bien station by train in just over 2.5 hours, then road and ferry to Cat Ba
- Getting around
- Short taxi rides, hotel cars and motorbike taxis within the town; boats for Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island and Cai Beo. Agree prices before you start
How to reach Cat Ba by air
There is no airport on Cat Ba. Hai Phong's Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) is the nearest, mostly with domestic flights and a few international routes, about 50 km away by road and ferry. Most Indian visitors fly to Hanoi Noi Bai (HAN) and continue by road; verify direct flights from your Indian city before booking.
How to reach Cat Ba by train
There is no railway on the island. Trains run from Hanoi's Long Bien station to Hai Phong station in just over 2.5 hours, about four a day when we checked. From Hai Phong you continue by taxi or bus to a ferry terminal, then on to Cat Ba.
How to reach Cat Ba by road
The usual routes are a direct tourist bus or minibus from Hanoi, about 3.5 hours including the ferry, or a private car with driver. From Hai Phong, ferries and hydrofoils cross to Cat Ba, and a ferry runs from Tuan Chau near Ha Long. Confirm current ports and timetables before you travel.
Getting around Cat Ba
In town, walk, or use taxis and hotel cars. For the national park, forts and beaches, use a car with driver. Boats for Lan Ha Bay, Monkey Island and Cai Beo leave from the harbour. Agree prices before setting off, and use licensed operators.
For parents and senior travellers
Easy transfers to and in Cat Ba
- Take a taxi or hotel car to Cannon Fort and the national park, and walk only the short sections. The viewing peak trail is muddy after rain and is best left to fit walkers.
- Carry a rain layer and a hat; the island can switch from sun to heavy rain within an hour, especially from May to September.
- Travel insurance with medical cover and evacuation matters here. We could not verify the capacity of hospitals on the island, so assume serious care means Hai Phong or Hanoi.
- Ask the airline or railway for wheelchair or porter assistance when you book, not on the day.
- Pre-book the pickup from the airport or station, so nobody has to negotiate with drivers after a long journey.
- Choose arrivals in daylight where you can, and keep the first afternoon free to rest.