Thai Binh by Car: Ultimate Guide to Driving from Hanoi & Eco-Tours in Hung Yen

A Scenic Drive to a Cultural Haven

Thai Binh, now a vibrant ward of Hung Yen province following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative reform, is a cultural and coastal gem 110 km southeast of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, drawing over 50,000 visitors annually. Accessible via a scenic 2-hour drive, Thai Binh spans 1,500 hectares of rice fields, historic sites like Keo Pagoda, and beaches like Dong Chau, with entry fees at $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND). It’s perfect for road trippers seeking authentic Vietnamese heritage and sustainable tourism.

Driving to Thai Binh offers flexibility to explore its cultural festivals, culinary specialties like banh cay and canh ca khoai, and coastal charm at your own pace. Eco-friendly practices, such as solar-powered homestays and biodegradable materials, align with Hung Yen’s green initiatives, preserving its rural allure. The temperate climate (dry season: November–April, 15–26°C or 59–78.8°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–33°C or 71.6–91.4°F) ensures year-round road trips. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours enhance your car journey with guided experiences. Book via the links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s 2025 reform merged Thai Binh province into Hung Yen, with Thai Binh City now a ward. This simplifies navigation, making Thai Binh a key tourism hub in Hung Yen, easily reached by car using maps referencing “Thai Binh, Hung Yen.”

Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism with over 17 years of experience, offers eco-friendly tours in Thai Binh, ideal for drivers seeking authentic cultural and culinary experiences. Our tours complement your car trip with low-impact activities like cycling or guided visits, led by English-speaking locals sharing Thai Binh’s heritage. Supporting local communities, we align with Hung Yen’s green goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make your journey seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Thai Binh responsibly!

Thai Binh, 110 km from Hanoi, is a cultural and agricultural heartland, established as a tourism site in the 1990s. Its 1,500-hectare expanse includes rice paddies, fishing villages, and landmarks like the 400-year-old Keo Pagoda. Handicraft villages, such as Nguyen Xa’s banh cay workshops and Dong Xam’s silver engraving, thrive alongside coastal attractions like Con Vanh’s mangroves. Sustainable practices, including recycled materials and local staffing, make Thai Binh a model of eco-tourism. A car trip allows you to explore cultural festivals, beaches, and culinary delights at your leisure, with ample parking and scenic routes.

Thai Binh, in Hung Yen, is 110 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, reachable in 2–2.5 hours by car via the Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway and Thai Ha Bridge. Here’s how to plan your eco-conscious car journey:

1. Private Car with Driver (Recommended)

Hiring a private car with a driver is the most convenient option, costing $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Professional drivers navigate Vietnam’s roads, ensuring safety and comfort.

• Cost: $40–$60 round-trip; $10–$15/person for 4.

• Duration: 2 hours.

• Route: Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway (CT04) to Hung Yen, then Thai Ha Bridge to Thai Binh ward.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Request hybrid or electric vehicles to reduce emissions.

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group 24–48 hours ahead; confirm inclusions (fuel, tolls ~$2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND, driver meals ~$2 or 50,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.60–$1 (15,000–25,000 VND) at Keo Pagoda, Dong Chau Beach, or village centers.

2. Self-Drive Car Rental

Rent a car for flexibility, costing $20–$40/day (500,000–1,000,000 VND) plus $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) fuel round-trip. Popular rental agencies in Hanoi include trusted local providers.

• Cost: $35–$60 round-trip; $9–$15/person for 4 (excluding insurance).

• Duration: 2–2.5 hours.

• Route: Same as above; follow signs for Thai Binh, Hung Yen from Thai Ha Bridge.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Choose fuel-efficient or hybrid cars (e.g., Toyota Corolla, VinFast VF e34).

• Requirements: International Driver’s Permit (IDP), domestic license, 21+ years old, 1+ year driving experience.

• Tip: Hanoi traffic is chaotic; self-driving suits experienced drivers. Book via apps like Klook or local agencies in Hanoi’s Dong Da or Cau Giay wards.

Car Rental and Driving Tips

• Inspect Vehicle: Photograph the car, check fuel levels, tires, brakes, and test-drive before departure. Verify registration, insurance, and bank documents (if mortgaged).

• Documents: Carry IDP, passport copy, rental contract, and insurance papers. Ensure insurance covers third-party liability.

• Road Conditions: Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway is modern with 4–6 lanes, but rural roads near Thai Binh are narrower; drive cautiously.

• Traffic Rules: Speed limit 60–80 km/h on highways, 40–50 km/h in Thai Binh. Honking is common; yield to motorbikes. Fines for violations (e.g., no helmet on motorbikes, speeding) up to $40 (1,000,000 VND).

• Fuel: Gas stations (Petrolimex, VinFast) are frequent; fuel costs $0.80–$1/liter (20,000–25,000 VND). Fill up in Hanoi or Nam Dinh.

• Navigation: Save “Thai Binh, Hung Yen” in offline maps (Maps.me or Google Maps); follow signs from Nam Dinh or Thai Ha Bridge. GPS apps like Vietmap are reliable.

• Safety: Avoid night driving due to unlit rural roads; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit and emergency contacts.

• Toll Fees: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) round-trip; cash or mobile apps accepted.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Carpool with friends to reduce emissions; avoid idling to save fuel.

From Noi Bai Airport by Car

• Private Car with Driver: $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND), 2.5 hours, 140 km via Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway.

• Self-Drive Rental: $25–$45/day (625,000–1,125,000 VND) plus $20–$25 (500,000–625,000 VND) fuel, available at airport agencies.

• Tip: Book airport transfers via Legend Travel Group for convenience; confirm parking at Thai Binh sites ($0.60–$1).

These eco-friendly activities ($0–$5) offer cultural and culinary immersion:

1. Explore Keo Pagoda

Visit the 17th-century Keo Pagoda, best at 9:00 AM, for free (donations $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND), admiring its intricate wooden architecture.

• Cost: Free; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Park responsibly; walk to the site to minimize impact.

• Tip: Dress modestly; included in Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

2. Join a Banh Cay Workshop

Learn to make banh cay in Nguyen Xa, best at 8:00 AM, for $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND), crafting sticky rice cakes with local artisans.

• Cost: $3–$5; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses biodegradable tools; supports artisans.

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group; included in Thai Binh Culinary Tour ($50–$80).

3. Watch Water Puppetry

Enjoy traditional water puppet shows, best at 5:00 PM, for $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND), celebrating Thai Binh’s folklore.

• Cost: $2–$4; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Weekends, 4:00 PM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Venues use solar lighting; supports performers.

• Tip: Book front-row seats; included in Thai Binh Overnight Tour ($90–$140).

4. Relax at Dong Chau Beach

Unwind at Dong Chau Beach, best at 10:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND), exploring its pristine shores and clam fields.

• Cost: $1–$2; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid littering; supports local aquaculture.

• Tip: Bring sunscreen; included in Thai Binh Coastal Tour ($60–$90).

5. Taste Canh Ca Khoai

Savor hot canh ca khoai (cream fish soup), best at 11:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) at local eateries, ideal from October to March.

• Cost: $1–$2; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Eateries use solar power; supports fishers.

• Tip: Pair with rice ($0.30 or 7,000 VND); included in Thai Binh Culinary Tour ($50–$80).

Drive from November to April for cool, dry weather (15–26°C or 59–78.8°F), ensuring smooth roads and clear visibility. The rainy season (May–October) may cause slippery rural roads, requiring cautious driving and rain gear. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see less traffic and fewer crowds (100–200 daily visitors) than weekends (400–600), especially during Lunar New Year or Nguyen Xa’s lunar October festival. Early mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) offer lighter traffic for the drive and calm exploration, while afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) suit relaxed activities.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable road trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for villages; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/Vietmap apps, offline maps, car charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Driving Gear: IDP, rental contract, insurance papers, first-aid kit, emergency contacts.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Cash for tolls ($2–$3), parking ($0.60–$1), and vendors; notebook for tour notes.

Costs for Visiting Thai Binh by Car

Entry and Activity Fees

• Entry: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) adult; free for children under 1.3m.

• Banh Cay Workshop: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Water Puppet Show: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Dong Chau Beach: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Canh Ca Khoai Meal: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Homestay: $12–$18/night (300,000–450,000 VND).

• Drinks (Tea, Water): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Banh Cay Packs): $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND).

• Guided Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Car Transportation Costs (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Private Car with Driver: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Self-Drive Car Rental: $35–$60 (875,000–1,500,000 VND), including $15–$20 fuel.

• Tolls: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.60–$1 (15,000–25,000 VND).

• Airport to Thai Binh (Private Car): $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND).

• SIM Card for Navigation: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Car-Based)

• Budget: $12–$22 (self-drive, entry, meal).

• Mid-range: $30–$50 (private car, activities, guided tour).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (private car, homestay, premium tour).

• Tip: Budget for entry ($0.50–$1), activities ($1–$5), and car costs ($35–$80); carry cash for tolls, parking, and vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Depart Hanoi at 7:00–9:00 AM to avoid peak traffic; November–April for dry roads. Weekdays for less congestion and crowds (100–200 vs. 400–600 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter roads.

• Booking: Reserve private cars 24–48 hours ahead via Legend Travel Group; book rentals via trusted Hanoi agencies. Pre-book activities like puppet shows or workshops at village centers.

• Sustainability: Carpool to reduce emissions; use fuel-efficient vehicles. Support locals with meal ($1–$2) or souvenir ($1–$4) purchases.

• Navigation: Save “Thai Binh, Hung Yen” in offline maps; follow Thai Ha Bridge signs. Ask locals in Nam Dinh if lost. Avoid night driving due to rural road conditions.

• Safety: Check car condition (tires, brakes, fuel); secure valuables. Drive defensively around motorbikes; carry emergency contacts and first-aid kit.

• Weather: Dry season for safe driving; rainy season needs wiper checks and rain gear ($2–$5) for stops. Monitor AccuWeather for road conditions.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at Keo Pagoda; say “xin chào” to locals. Park considerately to avoid blocking village paths.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer for stops.

Enhance your car trip with our eco-friendly tours showcasing Thai Binh’s highlights:

• Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Meet your guide in Thai Binh for Keo Pagoda, banh cay workshops, and water puppetry, with local lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, activities.

• Hung Yen Coastal Escape ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Thai Binh, Dong Chau Beach, homestay ($12–$18/night), and Nguyen Xa. Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Hung Yen Cultural Adventure ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Thai Binh, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ninh Binh’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-activities.

• Prices include guides, activities, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Thai Binh Province, a Red River Delta gem enchanting over 50,000 visitors yearly with entry fees at $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), lies just a 2-hour drive (110 km) from Hanoi. From Keo Pagoda’s timeless architecture to hands-on banh cay workshops in Nguyen Xa and the wild shores of Dong Chau Beach, its cultural and coastal allure shines, preserved by sustainable practices like solar-powered homestays. Driving via private car or eco-friendly rentals offers flexibility to explore at your pace, enhanced by proximity to Hung Yen’s cultural sites. Legend Travel Group’s Thai Binh Tours elevate your road trip with immersive, sustainable Thai Binh Travel experiences, blending visits to Keo Pagoda, local cuisine like canh cá Quynh Coi, and village cycling. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to drive to Thai Binh Province? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an authentic Red River Delta road trip adventure

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Thai Binh Travel Information: vietnamtourism.org.vn, thaibinh.gov.vn, asiakingtravel.com