Bac Giang is a working city in the Red River Delta, not a flashy tourist hub—which is exactly why it's worth visiting if you want to see how northern Vietnam actually runs. The province is known for litchi farming, textile factories, and "banh cay" (a local sticky rice cake), and it sits only 50 km from Hanoi, making it an easy day trip or overnight detour. Here's how to get there.
From Hanoi by Bus
This is the cheapest and most direct option for most travelers. Bac Giang has a central bus station (Bac Giang Bus Station, also called Ben Xe Bac Giang) that receives buses from several Hanoi terminals.
From Giap Bat Bus Station (south Hanoi, near Ho Tay) is your best bet. Buses depart every 20–30 minutes from roughly 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Fare: 40,000–60,000 VND per person. Buy a ticket at the station window or ask your hotel to book one for you the day before—no need to book weeks ahead.
From My Dinh Bus Station (west Hanoi) also has regular services to Bac Giang, roughly the same cost and duration. My Dinh tends to be busier and more chaotic, so Giap Bat is marginally easier for tourists.
Buses are standard sleeper or sitting coaches, rarely luxury. Expect a cramped ride if the bus is full, no toilet onboard, and a few stops along the way. Arrive 20 minutes early to secure a seat.
From Hanoi by Train
There is a local railway line connecting Hanoi and Bac Giang, but it's rarely used by travelers and service is infrequent. Trains, when they run, are slower than buses and less comfortable. Unless you're specifically interested in the railway experience, skip this option. Journey time is around 3–4 hours, and schedules change seasonally.
From Hanoi by Motorbike
If you're comfortable riding or renting a scooter, Bac Giang is a straightforward 50 km ride northeast on the National Road 5 (Quoc Lo 5). The highway is busy but in decent condition. Travel time is 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Rent a motorbike in Hanoi for 100,000–150,000 VND per day from a rental shop in the Old Quarter or via Airbnb. Fuel will cost another 20,000–30,000 VND for the round trip. You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent legally, though enforcement is inconsistent; some shops ask, others don't.
The ride is straightforward—follow Road 5 northeast, don't take random turns into villages, and watch for trucks. Stop in small towns along the way if you want to eat "pho" or grab coffee. This is the best option if you want flexibility and want to stop at side attractions.
Photo by HONG SON on Pexels
From Da Nang or Saigon
From Da Nang: No direct bus. You'd need to fly or train to Hanoi first (roughly 2 hours by air, 16–20 hours by sleeper train), then onward to Bac Giang by bus. Not practical for a quick visit.
From Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City): Same situation. Fly to Hanoi (2–2.5 hours), then bus to Bac Giang (1.5–2 hours). Total door-to-door time is 5–7 hours if you catch convenient connections.
Bac Giang is really a Hanoi-region trip, not a detour if you're in the south.
Where to Base Yourself
Bac Giang city center is compact. The main commercial street is Tran Hung Dao, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and most guesthouses. Hotels range from budget (150,000–300,000 VND for a basic room) to mid-range (400,000–700,000 VND for something cleaner with air-con). A few reliable options:
- Bac Giang Hotel (government-run, central, no-frills but reliable)
- Friendly Backpackers (if it's still operating; check ahead)
- Local guesthouses on Tran Hung Dao (ask at the bus station or Hanoi travel agents)
For a day trip from Hanoi, you don't need to stay overnight—catch a morning bus, spend 4–5 hours in the city and nearby litchi orchards or temples, then return on an afternoon or evening bus.
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels
What to Do in Bac Giang
If you're heading out this way, you're likely visiting for litchi season (May to July) or to explore quieter temples like Bao Thang or Vat Thiền. The lychee markets in the countryside are more authentic than tourist-aimed experiences, though you'll need your own transport to get there—renting a motorbike or hiring a taxi driver (100,000–150,000 VND for a few hours) works well.
Cost Recap
- Bus from Hanoi: 40,000–60,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours
- Motorbike rental + fuel: 120,000–180,000 VND round trip, 1–1.5 hours each way
- Guesthouse: 150,000–700,000 VND per night
- Meals: 20,000–50,000 VND for a full meal at local restaurants
Practical Notes
Bac Giang is most rewarding if you come during litchi season or have a specific reason to visit—temple interest, rural exploration, or a day-trip break from Hanoi. The city itself is functional rather than scenic. Buses are frequent and reliable; there's no need to overthink transport. If you're renting a motorbike elsewhere, the ride from Hanoi is straightforward and gives you the most control over timing and stops.
Last updated · Jun 2, 2026 · independently researched, never sponsored.
