Ha Long Bay - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Ha Long Bay

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ha Long Bay, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ha Long Bay and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ha Long Bay, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Ha Long Bay for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Quang Ninh province of Vietnam, known for its scenic beauty and remarkable limestone formations rising out of emerald green waters. The name "Ha Long" means "descending dragon" in Vietnamese, and legend has it that the bay was created by a dragon that descended into the sea, causing the land to rise up and form the dramatic cliffs and islands that characterize the area. Ha Long Bay is home to over 1,600 islands and islets, many of them uninhabited, and visitors can explore the area by boat, kayak, or on foot. The bay is also known for its biodiversity, including several rare species of plants and animals, and its cultural significance, with several ancient fishing villages still inhabited by local residents.

What to visit in Ha Long Bay

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Ha Long Bay and some information about each: 1. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty and unique karst formations.
2. Sung Sot Cave: Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Ha Long Bay. The cave is filled with stalactites and stalagmites that are lit up by colorful lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
3. Titop Island: Titop Island is a small island that is popular with tourists for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and even climb up to the top of the island for panoramic views of the bay.
4. Cat Ba Island: Cat Ba Island is the largest island in the Ha Long Bay area and is home to a national park that is known for its biodiversity and unique ecosystem. Visitors can go hiking, kayaking, or even spelunking in the island's many caves.
5. Fishing Villages: There are several fishing villages in Ha Long Bay that offer visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. Visitors can see how the fishermen catch and prepare fish, or even take a ride on a traditional wooden boat.
6. Bai Tu Long Bay: Bai Tu Long Bay is a quieter and less touristy area of Ha Long Bay that is known for its pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat tour of the area or go kayaking to explore the many hidden coves and bays.
Overall, Ha Long Bay is a truly spectacular destination that offers something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of activities and attractions, it's no wonder that this area is considered one of the top tourist destinations in Vietnam.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ha Long Bay.

When to go on holiday to Ha Long Bay

The best time to go on holiday to Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is from March to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking. The temperature ranges from 18°C to 25°C, and the skies are generally clear, providing you with stunning views of the limestone cliffs and sea. June to August is the peak season but can be quite crowded and prone to heavy rainfall, while December to February can be chilly with occasional fog and drizzle.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ha Long Bay

There are several ways to reach Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. Here are some options: 1. By land: You can take a bus or private car from Hanoi to Ha Long City. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. From Ha Long City, you can take a boat tour to explore the bay.
2. By seaplane: A seaplane flight from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay takes around 45 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the bay.
3. By train: You can take a train from Hanoi to Halong City, which takes around 7 hours. However, this option is not as popular as the other two.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to plan ahead and book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from October to December.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ha Long Bay, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ha Long Bay

Sure, here are some typical foods of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam: 1. Cha Muc - Cha muc is a famous squid sausage in Ha Long Bay. The squid is ground and mixed with egg, garlic, chili and other spices before being wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.
2. Nem chua - Nem Chua is a popular Vietnamese dish made from ground pork and garlic. It is fermented, seasoned with local spices, and wrapped in banana leaves. It has a savory, slightly sour taste.
3. Bun Cha Ha Long - Bun Cha Ha Long is a dish of grilled pork and rice vermicelli noodles, served with herbs, lettuce, and a sweet and sour fish sauce. It is a favorite food of locals and tourists alike.
4. Banh Cuon - Banh Cuon is a traditional dish of steamed rice pancakes filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and onions. The dish is topped with crispy fried shallots, fresh herbs, and served with hot dipping sauce.
5. Ca Say – Ca Say is a specialty dish in Ha Long Bay made with a type of small fish, called sand goby. The fish is wrapped in banana leaves and grilled with herbs and spices, resulting in an aromatic and flavorful dish.
6. Coconut crabs - Coconut crabs are a yet luxurious seafood that are indigenous to several countries in the Asia Pacific region, including Vietnam. The crabs grow up to 4 kilograms in weight and are known for their juicy and succulent flesh.
7. Tofu - One of the most popular vegetarian dishes in Ha Long Bay, tofu is made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the curds into blocks. It can be served in many ways, including fried, boiled, steamed, or grilled.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods you can try in Ha Long Bay. Make sure to try as many as you can during your trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Ha Long Bay an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of traveling to Ha Long Bay, Vietnam can vary depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, and activities you choose. However, it is generally considered a bit more expensive compared to other destinations in Vietnam due to its popularity and demand.
For example, a budget hotel or hostel can cost around $10-20 USD per night, while a mid-range hotel could cost $40-80 USD per night. As for transportation, taking a bus or train from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay can cost around $10-20 USD, while a private car or taxi could cost $80-100 USD. Activities such as kayaking, cruising or exploring the caves of Ha Long Bay, can cost anywhere from $20-50 USD per person.
So, while Ha Long Bay might be considered relatively expensive in Vietnam, it is still attainable for many travelers with a variety of budgets.

Where to find accomodation in Ha Long Bay

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. Here are a few suggestions: 1. Ha Long City: This is the closest city to Ha Long Bay and a popular choice for travelers. You can find a range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels here.
2. Bai Chay Beach: This is a popular area for tourists and has several resorts for you to choose from. It's also close to Ha Long Bay and convenient for day trips.
3. Tuan Chau Island: The island is a bit further out but has more upscale resorts and hotels. It also has its own beach and offers a quieter atmosphere compared to Ha Long City.
4. Cat Ba Island: This is a great base for exploring not only Ha Long Bay but also nearby Lan Ha Bay and the Cat Ba National Park. You can find a range of accommodations here, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Ha Long Bay here:
Booking.com

Is Ha Long Bay a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it's always important to take basic safety precautions like avoiding walking alone at night, storing your valuables securely, and staying aware of your surroundings. It's also a good idea to follow any local customs or guidelines to help ensure your safety. Overall, Ha Long Bay is a beautiful and popular destination with a relatively low crime rate, so tourists can feel relatively safe while enjoying their visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ha Long Bay.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ha Long Bay the most?

Ha Long Bay in Vietnam is a place that will appeal to many types of travelers. It can be a great destination for couples as the stunning natural scenery can create a romantic ambiance. Young people looking for fun may enjoy activities such as kayaking or rock climbing, while families can enjoy the many attractions and activities the area has to offer.
There are plenty of things to do in Ha Long Bay, including scenic boat tours, hiking, exploring caves, and visiting local fishing villages. Additionally, the natural beauty of the bay makes it a great place to relax and unwind, providing a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
In conclusion, Ha Long Bay is a destination that will appeal to a wide range of travelers, and everyone can find something to enjoy there.

How to get around Ha Long Bay

The best way to move around Ha Long Bay is by boat. You have the option to choose between traditional wooden boats or bigger steel boats that offer cabins and amenities. Some boats offer day trips while others have overnight stays. There are also kayaks available for rent to explore the area more intimately.

What to see around Ha Long Bay

Sure, here are a few nice places to visit in a day trip from Ha Long Bay in Vietnam: 1. Bai Tu Long Bay - This is a quieter and less touristy alternative to Ha Long Bay, where you can take a boat trip, swim, and explore caves.
2. Co To Island - This is a beautiful island with sandy beaches, clear waters, and great seafood. You can take a speedboat from Cai Rong Port.
3. Yen Tu Mountain - This mountain has a beautiful pagoda complex and is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists. You can take a cable car up the mountain.
4. Cua Van Fishing Village - This is a charming fishing village near Ha Long Bay where you can experience the local way of life and see floating houses.
5. Quang Ninh Museum - This museum showcases the history and culture of Quang Ninh province where Ha Long Bay is located.
These are just a few options among many other options to consider. Depending on your interests and preferences, you could also visit nearby national parks, caves, waterfalls, and historical sites.
For every travel information about Vietnam you can click here.

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