Vinh Ha Long - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Vinh Ha Long

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Vinh Ha Long, 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 Vinh Ha Long 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 Vinh Ha Long, 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 Vinh Ha Long for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Vinh Ha Long

Vinh Ha Long is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Quang Ninh province of Vietnam. It is known for the stunning natural scenery of thousands of limestone islands and islets, which rise from the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. The name "Ha Long" means "descending dragon", and according to legend, the bay was created by a great dragon that lived in the mountains. Visitors can take a cruise around the bay to admire the unique and breathtaking beauty of the landscape, visit the floating villages, or participate in activities like kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking. There are also many caves and grottos to explore, and tourists can learn about the local culture through visits to fishing villages and markets.

What to visit in Vinh Ha Long

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Vinh Ha Long, Vietnam: 1. Ha Long Bay: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. The bay features thousands of limestone karsts and isles in various shapes and sizes that rise up from the emerald waters. Visitors can take a cruise to explore the bay and its many caves, or go kayaking and rock climbing.
2. Bai Tu Long Bay: Bai Tu Long Bay is a lesser-known but equally stunning version of Ha Long Bay. It lies to the northeast of Ha Long and is home to many unspoiled beaches and fishing villages. Visitors can also explore the bay's caves, and enjoy kayaking and swimming in the crystal clear waters.
3. Sung Sot Cave: Also known as Surprise Cave, Sung Sot Cave is located in Bo Hon Island and is one of the most popular caves in Ha Long Bay. The cave is divided into two chambers, with the first chamber featuring stalactites and stalagmites of various shapes and sizes, and the second chamber housing a large dome with a central peak covered in algae.
4. Ti Top Island: Ti Top Island is a small island located in the center of Ha Long Bay and named after the Russian astronaut, Gherman Titov. The island has a magnificent beach and visitors can climb the steps to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the bay.
5. Cua Van Fishing Village: Cua Van Fishing Village is a traditional floating village located in a sheltered bay within Ha Long Bay. It's home to around 700 residents who live on floating houses and make their living from fishing. Visitors can take a boat tour and observe the local way of life in the village.
6. Tuan Chau Island: Tuan Chau Island is a leisure paradise situated on the southwest part of Ha Long Bay, with a variety of exciting activities such as water sports, amusement parks, dolphin shows, and an artificial beach. It's a perfect stop for travelers looking for some fun and adventure during their trip to Vinh Ha Long.
Hope this helps in organizing your trip to Vinh Ha Long!
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 Vinh Ha Long.

When to go on holiday to Vinh Ha Long

The best time to go on holiday to Vinh Ha Long, Vietnam is from October to March. During this time, the weather is cooler with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, and there is little to no rainfall. This makes it the ideal time for outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and sightseeing. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season and therefore, prices may be higher and attractions may be more crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to October. During these times, the weather is still pleasant with fewer crowds and lower prices. It is advisable to avoid visiting Vinh Ha Long during the summer months of July and August as it tends to be hot and humid, with occasional heavy rains and tropical storms.

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

How to get to Vinh Ha Long

To get to Vinh Ha Long in Vietnam, you have several transportation options: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Vinh Ha Long is the Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong City, which is about 40 km from Vinh Ha Long. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a hired car to Vinh Ha Long.
2. By Bus: You can take a bus from Hanoi to Vinh Ha Long, which will take around 4 hours. There are several bus companies that offer this route, such as Hoang Long, Queen Cafe or Kumho Viet Thanh. You can easily book a ticket from the bus station or online.
3. By Private Car: You can also rent a private car to Vinh Ha Long from Hanoi, which will take around 3 hours. This is a more expensive option but will give you more flexibility and comfort during your trip.
4. By Tourist Boat: Another great way to get to Vinh Ha Long is by taking a tourist boat tour, especially if you want to explore the beautiful landscape of the bay. Many travel agencies in Hanoi offer tours that include transportation, accommodation, and guided tours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Vinh Ha Long, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Vinh Ha Long

Vinh Ha Long is a coastal city located in Quang Ninh Province in Vietnam. Here are some of the typical foods you can expect to find in the city: 1. Ha Long Seafood: As a coastal city, Ha Long is famous for its fresh seafood. You can find a variety of fish, shrimp, crab, and squid dishes here, all cooked in different styles.
2. Banh Cuon: This is a dish made of steamed rice rolls filled with seasoned ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, and minced shallots. It is served with dipping sauce and herbs.
3. Cha Muc: Cha Muc is a type of grilled squid sausage. It is made from minced squid mixed with spices, egg yolk, and flour. It is then grilled on hot charcoal and served with dipping sauce.
4. Nem Chua: Nem Chua is a type of Vietnamese sausage made from ground pork, garlic, and chili. The mixture is fermented for several days before being served with herbs and sliced cucumber.
5. Bun Ca Ha Long: This is a fish noodle soup made with fresh fish, vegetables, and rice noodles in a flavorful broth.
6. Xoi Xeo: This is a sticky rice dish flavored with turmeric and topped with fried shallots and mung bean paste.
7. Banh Goi: Banh Goi is a type of deep-fried pastry filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and noodles. It is similar to a small empanada or samosa.
8. La Vong grilled fish: This is a famous dish in Ha Long. It is made with grilled catfish marinated with turmeric, galangal, and dill. It is served with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Vinh Ha Long an expensive destination for tourists?

Vinh Ha Long can be quite expensive for tourists, but it ultimately depends on the choices you make and your overall budget. Cruises and tours to explore the stunning landscape of the Ha Long Bay can be quite pricey, especially if you opt for a luxury option. However, you can also find more affordable tours and boat trips if you opt for a smaller vessel or during low season. Accommodation and dining options also vary in price, with luxury resorts and restaurants on the higher end and budget-friendly hostels and street food vendors on the lower end. Transportation costs and entrance fees to attractions should also be factored into your budget. Overall, while it is possible to have an affordable trip to Vinh Ha Long, it is important to plan ahead and research your options to ensure you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Vinh Ha Long

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Ha Long Bay in Vietnam are: 1. Ha Long City: This is the nearest city to Ha Long Bay and offers plenty of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and luxury resorts.
2. Tuan Chau Island: Located within Ha Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island is a popular tourist spot with many resorts and hotels that offer stunning views of the bay.
3. Cat Ba Island: Cat Ba Island is a bit further from Ha Long Bay but still offers beautiful scenery and a range of accommodation options, including beach resorts and guesthouses.
4. Bai Chay: This is another popular area to stay in Ha Long City, located near the water and offering a range of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Vinh Ha Long here:
Booking.com

Is Vinh Ha Long a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Vinh Ha Long is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, it is always a good idea to take some safety precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended in public places, being aware of your surroundings, and following any local customs or regulations. It is also recommended to book tours and activities through reputable companies and to always have emergency contact information on hand. Overall, Vietnam is a safe country for tourists and its people are friendly and welcoming.
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 Vinh Ha Long.

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

Vinh Ha Long in Vietnam is a place that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. Here are some suggestions based on the type of traveler: 1. Couples: Vinh Ha Long's natural beauty and romantic atmosphere make it an ideal destination for couples. A romantic boat ride at sunset, staying in a cozy cabin or beachside resort, and dining on fresh seafood are experiences that couples would definitely enjoy.
2. Young People: Vinh Ha Long also offers activities that are perfect for the adventurous spirit of young travelers. These activities include cave exploration, kayaking, and rock climbing.
3. Families: Vinh Ha Long is a family-friendly destination that offers activities suitable for all ages. The family can have fun climbing rock walls together or enjoy a relaxing boat ride. The beaches in Vinh Ha Long are also perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Overall, Vinh Ha Long is an ideal destination for everyone, and each traveler can experience something unique to their interests.

How to get around Vinh Ha Long

There are various modes of transportation available for moving around Vinh Ha Long in Vietnam. The most common ones are: 1. Boats: As Vinh Ha Long is a coastal city, boats are a popular means of transportation for sightseeing, exploring nearby islands, and reaching beaches.
2. Taxis: Taxis are easily available in Vinh Ha Long and can be hired for short or long journeys around the city.
3. Motorbikes: Motorbikes can also be rented in Vinh Ha Long for self-guided tours around the city. However, it is important to be cautious while riding as traffic can be chaotic.
4. Shuttle buses: Shuttle buses are also available for transportation between different parts of the city and nearby destinations.
5. Bicycle: Bicycles can be rented from local vendors to explore the city at a slower pace. It is an eco-friendly option and a great way to experience the local culture.

What to see around Vinh Ha Long

Sure, here are some lovely places to consider for a day trip from Vinh Ha Long in Vietnam: 1. Yen Tu Mountain: This is a great place for a nature hike. The gorgeous peaks and spectacular views from the top will take your breath away.
2. Bai Tu Long Bay: Bai Tu Long Bay is a quieter and less touristic alternative to Ha Long Bay. It is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
3. Quang Ninh Museum: If you're interested in learning about the history and culture of Vietnam's Quang Ninh Province, then this museum is a must-visit.
4. Tuan Chau Island: This island is situated in the Gulf of Tonkin and offers great views of the sea. It has many restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities such as rock climbing and kayaking.
5. Cua Ong Temple: Cua Ong Temple is a historic temple located in Quang Ninh Province. It is a beautiful monument and a must-visit place for history lovers.
6. Co To Island: Co To Island is known for its tranquil beaches and nature reserves. This place is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.
I hope this list helps you plan your day trip!
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