Ha Long Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province, about 170 km east of Hanoi. Covering an area of over 1,500 km² and including around 1,969 islands of various sizes, Halong Bay is recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site due to its unique aesthetic and geological values. Visitors are attracted not only by the beautiful limestone islands but also by the various sea activities and experiences available.

Ha Long City, located in northern Vietnam, experiences four distinct seasons. From April to June, the weather is warm and relatively dry, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. June to August can be hot and rainy, with a peak in tourism and crowded conditions, especially on weekends. From September to December, the weather becomes cooler, suitable for enjoying a more tranquil Ha Long Bay, outdoor activities, and exploring entertainment options. Each season offers a unique beauty to Ha Long Bay.

From Hanoi: Travellers have several options to reach Halong Bay from Hanoi, with average travel times ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the chosen mode of transportation:

– Bus from My Dinh Bus Station: A popular and budget-friendly choice. Buses depart from My Dinh Bus Station, with ticket prices ranging from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per person, depending on the bus quality and services. Buses usually follow the Hanoi-Haiphong-Quang Ninh highway, significantly shortening travel time.

– Limousine: A more premium option, offering door-to-door service and luxurious amenities. The average ticket price for a seat on a limousine is around 200,000 to 350,000 VND per person. Limousines also use the highway, providing a more comfortable and faster experience.

– Private Car Rental: Ideal for groups or families, renting a private car is the most flexible option. The cost for a 4-7 seat car typically ranges from 1,500,000 to 3,000,000 VND per trip, depending on the car type and services. Travelers can request a custom itinerary and make stops as desired.

From Other Cities: You can fly to Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh), Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), or Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong), and then continue by road to Halong Bay.

Ha Long Bay is not only famous for its majestic landscapes but also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury to budget, catering to all budgets and preferences:

–  Luxury Hotels: For a high-end experience, Halong Bay offers many 5-star hotels with stunning sea views. Hotels such as Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong, FLC Grand Hotel Halong, and Royal Lotus Hotel provide upscale accommodations with amenities like spas, swimming pools, fine dining restaurants, and special services.

–  Mid-Range Hotels: If you seek comfort at a reasonable price, 3-4 star hotels like Halong Plaza Hotel, Novotel Halong Bay, and Muong Thanh Luxury Quang Ninh are excellent choices. These hotels offer good service, clean rooms, and often views of the bay or the city centre.

– Homestays and Hostels: For a cosy and immersive experience, Halong Bay also offers various homestays and hostels with diverse designs, from modern to traditional. Notable homestays include Deja Vu House, Banana and Rose Homestay, or HaLong Ginger Homestay. These options are generally affordable, with friendly atmospheres and attentive service, ideal for young groups or small families.

– Cruise-Stay (Luxury Cruise): For a unique experience, staying on a cruise is an excellent option. Many 1-5 star cruises like Grand Pioneers Cruise, Heritage Cruises, and Paradise Cruise offer luxurious accommodations and high-end services, combined with activities like sightseeing, kayaking, night squid fishing, and other exciting experiences.

– Explore famous caves and islands

+ Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): One of the largest and most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, featuring two main chambers with hundreds of uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites.

+ Ti Top Island: Known for its white sandy beach and clear blue water, it’s ideal for swimming and hiking to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the bay.

+ Thien Cung Cave: A large cave with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, creating a magical scene.

– Visit Traditional Fishing Villages

+ Vung Vieng Fishing Village: Explore the village by local bamboo boat, learn about the fishermen’s way of life, and enjoy fresh seafood.

+ Cua Van Fishing Village: One of the oldest fishing villages in Halong Bay, renowned for its peaceful beauty and traditional fishing culture.

– Visit recreation centres

+ Sun World Halong Park: A large amusement park with thrilling rides, a water park, and the Queen Cable Car, which takes you to the top of Ba Deo Mountain for a view of the city.

• Ticket Prices:

  Adults (1.4m and above): 300,000 VND on weekdays, 350,000 VND on weekends and holidays.

  Children (1m – 1.4m): 200,000 VND on weekdays, 250,000 VND on weekends and holidays.

  Children under 1m: Free entry.

  + Quang Ninh Museum: Showcases many artifacts and images related to Quang Ninh Province’s culture and history. The museum’s unique architecture is also a highlight. Ticket prices are 40,000 VND for adults, 20,000 VND for students, and 10,000 VND for children.

  – Experience a seaplane ride in Ha Long Bay

  A special and luxurious experience not to be missed in Halong Bay is a seaplane ride. The seaplane will take you up to about 300 meters, allowing you to view the entire Halong Bay with thousands of limestone islands amid the blue sea.

  Scenic Flight over Halong Bay (25 minutes): Ticket prices range from 2,000,000 to 2,500,000 VND per person.

  Scenic Flight over Halong Bay (40 minutes): Ticket prices range from 4,000,000 to 5,000,000 VND per person.

Halong Bay is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its rich and diverse cuisine. If you’re looking for must-try local specialties during your trip, here are some standout dishes and restaurant recommendations in Halong Bay:

– Cù Kỳ Noodles: A standout local specialty combining noodles with cù kỳ, a type of crab unique to this region. Cù kỳ has firm, sweet meat and is often prepared with a delicious broth, served with fresh noodles and vegetables. Recommended restaurant: Bún Cù Kỳ Hường Béo, 20 Tấn Mài, Bãi Cháy, Halong City, Quang Ninh.

– Rice paper rolls with squid cake: This dish features soft rice paper rolls with crispy squid cake made from freshly ground squid, retaining its oceanic flavor. It’s usually served with dipping sauce and fresh vegetables. Recommended restaurant: Chả Mực Giang, 25 Bai Chay Road, Bai Chay, Ha Long. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and good service.

– Sam Bà Tỵ: A unique snack made with sam (a type of sea creature) prepared using a traditional recipe, which can be stir-fried, grilled, or deep-fried. It’s usually served with fresh vegetables and a special dipping sauce for a delicious and enticing flavor. Recommended restaurant: Sam Bà Tỵ, 123 Ha Long Road, Hon Gai, Ha Long. The restaurant has a spacious setting and friendly service, ideal for enjoying this dish.

– Yogurt with tapioca pearls: A sweet and refreshing dessert combining delicious yogurt with soft tapioca pearls, creating a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch. Recommended places:

+ Sữa Chua Trân Châu Cô Nghi: A popular spot for yogurt with tapioca pearls in Halong. You can enjoy fresh yogurt with tapioca pearls at 10 Văn Lang, Hòn Gai, Halong. The small shop is always busy due to its quality and friendly service.

+ Sữa Chua Trân Châu “Cơ sở 00”: Another favorite spot for tasty yogurt with tapioca pearls. Address: C107-108-109, Zone C, Bai Chay Old Quarter,  Bai Chay, Ha Long. The shop has a pleasant ambiance and serves yogurt with various toppings.

Enjoy your culinary journey in Ha Long Bay with these local specialties and don’t forget to visit renowned restaurants for a complete gastronomic experience!