The Utimate Traveler's Guide to Halong Bay Vietnam

Halong Bay is a natural wonder that will take your breath away. Imagine thousands of limestone islands rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, creating a spectacular seascape of shapes and colors. Halong Bay is not only a stunning sight, but also a place of rich history, culture and biodiversity. It is one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. Whether you want to relax on a cruise, kayak through caves, visit floating villages or enjoy the local cuisine, Halong Bay has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to planning and experiencing a trip to Halong Bay. You will learn how to get there, how to choose the best cruise, what to see and do, what to eat and drink, and when to visit. By the end of this article, you will be ready to book your trip to Halong Bay with trip.com, which offers great deals on flights, hotels, cruises and tours. Let’s get started!

How to Get to Halong Bay

Halong Bay is located in the northeast of Vietnam, about 170 kilometers from Hanoi, the capital city. There are several ways to reach Halong Bay from Hanoi or other major cities in Vietnam, such as by bus, car, train, helicopter or seaplane. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your budget, time, convenience and comfort. Here are some tips and recommendations on how to get to Halong Bay:

Bus

Taking a bus is the cheapest and most common way to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi. There are many bus companies that offer daily services from Hanoi to Halong Bay, with different departure times and locations. The bus journey takes about 4 hours and costs around 10 USD per person. However, taking a bus can also be uncomfortable, crowded and unpredictable, as the buses may stop frequently, have poor facilities or encounter traffic jams. To avoid these problems, you should book your bus tickets in advance, choose a reputable bus company, and check the reviews and ratings of the buses online.

Car

Taking a car is another option to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi. You can either rent a car and drive yourself, or hire a private driver or a taxi. Taking a car gives you more flexibility, privacy and comfort, as you can choose your own route, schedule and stops. The car journey takes about 3 hours and costs around 100 USD per car. However, taking a car can also be more expensive, risky and stressful, as you may have to deal with unfamiliar roads, traffic rules and parking fees. To avoid these problems, you should book your car rental or driver service in advance, choose a reliable car company or agency, and check the license and insurance of the car or driver.

Train

Taking a train is another option to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi. The train departs from Gia Lam Station in Hanoi at 4:55 am and arrives at Ha Long Station in Halong Bay at 11:45 am. The train journey takes about 7 hours and costs around 15 USD per person. However, taking a train can also be slow, inconvenient and boring, as the train only runs once a day, has limited facilities and offers little scenery along the way. To avoid these problems, you should book your train tickets in advance, choose a comfortable seat or cabin, and bring some snacks and entertainment for the long ride.

Helicopter

Taking a helicopter is another option to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi. There are several helicopter companies that offer charter flights from Hanoi to Halong Bay, with different departure times and locations. The helicopter journey takes about 45 minutes and costs around 500 USD per person. Taking a helicopter gives you the fastest, most convenient and most scenic way to get to Halong Bay, as you can avoid the traffic jams, save time and enjoy the aerial view of the bay. However, taking a helicopter can also be very expensive, limited and weather-dependent, as you may have to pay a lot of money, book well in advance and cancel your flight if the weather is bad. To avoid these problems, you should compare the prices and availability of different helicopter companies online, choose a reputable helicopter company with good safety records, and check the weather forecast before your flight.

Seaplane

Taking a seaplane is another option to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi. The seaplane departs from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi at various times throughout the day and lands on Tuan Chau Island in Halong Bay. The seaplane journey takes about 45 minutes and costs around 300 USD per person. Taking a seaplane gives you a similar experience as taking a helicopter, but with more options and lower prices. You can also opt for a 15-minute scenic flight over Halong Bay for an additional 100 USD per person. However, taking a seaplane can also be expensive, limited and weather-dependent, as you may have to pay a lot of money, book well in advance and cancel your flight if the weather is bad. To avoid these problems, you should book your seaplane tickets online, choose a reputable seaplane company with good safety records, and check the weather forecast before your flight.

How to Choose the Best Cruise for Halong Bay

Cruising is the most popular and recommended way to explore Halong Bay. There are hundreds of cruises available, ranging from day cruises to overnight cruises, from luxury cruises to budget cruises, from traditional wooden junks to modern steel vessels. Each cruise offers a different itinerary, facilities, services, food, entertainment and price. How do you choose the best cruise for your trip to Halong Bay? Here are some tips and recommendations on how to find and book the best cruise for your budget, preferences and expectations:

Decide on the duration of your cruise

The first thing you need to decide is how long you want to stay on the cruise. You can choose between a day cruise or an overnight cruise. A day cruise usually lasts for 4 to 6 hours and covers the main highlights of Halong Bay. An overnight cruise usually lasts for 2 days and 1 night or 3 days and 2 nights and covers more areas and activities of Halong Bay. A day cruise is cheaper, faster and more convenient, but you will miss out on the sunset, sunrise and night views of the bay. An overnight cruise is more expensive, longer and more immersive, but you will have more time to enjoy the scenery, relax and have fun on board.

Decide on the type of your cruise

The next thing you need to decide is what kind of cruise you want to join. You can choose between a luxury cruise or a budget cruise, a traditional junk or a modern vessel, a large group or a small group, a standard itinerary or a customized itinerary. A luxury cruise offers more comfort, quality and service, but also costs more money. A budget cruise offers more affordability, flexibility and adventure, but also has less facilities, safety and hygiene. A traditional junk has more charm, character and authenticity, but also has less space, amenities and stability. A modern vessel has more space, amenities and stability, but also has less charm, character and authenticity. A large group offers more socializing, entertainment and diversity, but also has less privacy, quietness and personalization. A small group offers more privacy, quietness and personalization, but also has less socializing, entertainment and diversity. A standard itinerary follows the common route and schedule of most cruises in Halong Bay, which covers the most popular attractions and activities. A customized itinerary allows you to choose your own route and schedule according to your interests and needs.

Compare the features and benefits of different cruises

The last thing you need to do is compare the features and benefits of different cruises that match your criteria.You should pay attention to the following aspects when comparing different cruises:

• Itinerary: Check what attractions and activities are included in each cruise’s itinerary. Some of the most famous attractions in Halong Bay are Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Luon Cave, Dau Go Cave, Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. Some of the most fun activities in Halong Bay are kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, biking, fishing, cooking class, tai chi class and squid fishing.
• Facilities: Check what facilities are available on each cruise’s boat. Some of the most common facilities are cabins, bathrooms, sundecks, restaurants, bars, lounges, spas, gyms and jacuzzis.
• Services: Check what services are provided by each cruise’s staff. Some of the most common services are transfers, guides, meals, drinks, entertainment, security and customer care.
• Food: Check what food is served on each cruise’s boat. Some of the most common food items are seafood, rice noodles, spring rolls, pho (noodle soup), coffee and beer.
• Entertainment: Check what entertainment is offered on each cruise’s boat. Some of the most common entertainment options are karaoke, games, movies, music and cultural shows.
• Price: Check what price is charged by each cruise’s company. The price usually depends on the duration, type, features and benefits of each cruise. The price usually includes taxes, fees, insurance and tips. The price usually excludes drinks, personal expenses, optional activities and extra services.

What to See and Do in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. There are so many things to see and do in Halong Bay that you will never get bored. Here are some of the most famous and beautiful islands, caves, beaches and viewpoints in Halong Bay that you should not miss:

Sung Sot Cave

Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay. It is located on Bo Hon Island and has two chambers with different sizes and shapes. The first chamber is like a theater, with a high ceiling and a wide floor. The second chamber is like a fairyland, with stalactites and stalagmites of various colors and forms. The cave is well-lit and has wooden walkways for visitors to explore. You can also see some paintings of ancient people and animals on the cave walls.

Ti Top Island

Ti Top Island, also known as Titov Island, is one of the most popular islands in Halong Bay. It is named after a Russian astronaut who visited the island with Ho Chi Minh in 1962. The island has a crescent-shaped beach with white sand and clear water. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. The island also has a peak that offers a panoramic view of Halong Bay. You can climb up the 400 steps to reach the peak and enjoy the scenery.

Luon Cave

Luon Cave, also known as Tunnel Cave, is a unique cave in Halong Bay. It is located on Bo Hon Island and has a circular opening that leads to a tranquil lake surrounded by limestone cliffs. The cave can only be accessed by kayaking or rowing through the opening at low tide. The cave is home to many monkeys, birds and plants. You can kayak or row around the lake and admire the natural beauty of the cave.

Dau Go Cave

Dau Go Cave, also known as Wooden Stakes Cave, is another impressive cave in Halong Bay. It is located on Dau Go Island and has three chambers with different themes. The first chamber is like a palace, with huge columns and arches. The second chamber is like a garden, with flowers and trees made of stone. The third chamber is like a heaven, with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is also famous for its historical significance, as it was used as a hiding place for wooden stakes that were used to defeat the Mongol invaders in 1288.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay, also known as Little Halong Bay, is a less crowded and more pristine area of Halong Bay. It is located in the northeast of Halong Bay and covers about half of its area. It has hundreds of islands, caves, beaches and fishing villages that are less visited by tourists. You can enjoy a more peaceful and authentic experience of Halong Bay in Bai Tu Long Bay. Some of the best attractions in Bai Tu Long Bay are [Thien Canh Son Cave], [Vung Vieng Fishing Village], [Ban Chan Beach] and [Cong Dam Area].

Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay, also known as Hidden Halong Bay, is another less crowded and more pristine area of Halong Bay. It is located in the south of Halong Bay and covers about a quarter of its area. It has hundreds of islands, caves, beaches and fishing villages that are less visited by tourists. You can enjoy a more adventurous and ecological experience of Halong Bay in Lan Ha Bay. Some of the best attractions in Lan Ha Bay are [Monkey Island], [Cat Ba Island], [Dark and Bright Cave] and [Ba Trai Dao Beach].

These are some of the most famous and beautiful attractions in Halong Bay that you should not miss. However, there are many more things to see and do in Halong Bay that you can discover on your own or with your guide. Here are some of the most fun and exciting activities that you can do in Halong Bay:

Kayaking

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore Halong Bay. You can paddle through the calm waters, admire the limestone formations, enter the hidden caves, visit the floating villages and get close to nature. You can rent a kayak from your cruise or join a guided tour with an instructor. Kayaking is suitable for all ages and levels of experience.

Swimming

Swimming is another great way to enjoy Halong Bay. You can jump into the clear water, cool off from the heat, relax your muscles and have fun with your friends or family. You can swim at any beach or island that you visit on your cruise or tour. Swimming is safe and refreshing in Halong Bay.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is another amazing way to discover Halong Bay. You can dive into the water, see the colorful coral reefs, observe the marine life and feel the underwater world. You can rent a snorkel and mask from your cruise or join a guided tour with an instructor. Snorkeling is easy and enjoyable in Halong Bay.

Hiking

Hiking is another wonderful way to experience Halong Bay. You can climb up the hills, see the panoramic views, breathe the fresh air and challenge yourself. You can hike at any island or peak that you visit on your cruise or tour. Hiking is rewarding and exhilarating in Halong Bay.

Biking

Biking is another fantastic way to explore Halong Bay. You can ride along the coast, see the rural scenery, meet the local people and learn about their culture. You can rent a bike from your cruise or join a guided tour with an instructor. Biking is fun and adventurous in Halong Bay.

Fishing

Fishing is another relaxing way to enjoy Halong Bay. You can catch some fish, cook them on board, taste the local flavor and share them with your companions. You can fish at any spot that you visit on your cruise or tour. Fishing is simple and satisfying in Halong Bay.

These are some of the most fun and exciting activities that you can do in Halong Bay. However, there are many more things to do in Halong Bay that you can try on your own or with your guide. You can also join some classes or shows that are offered by your cruise or tour, such as cooking class, tai chi class, squid fishing, karaoke, games, movies, music and cultural shows.

What to Eat and Drink in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the taste buds. There are many delicious and authentic dishes and drinks that you can try in Halong Bay, especially seafood. Here are some of the most mouthwatering and refreshing dishes and drinks that you should not miss in Halong Bay:

Seafood

Seafood is the star of Halong Bay cuisine. You can find a variety of fresh and tasty seafood in Halong Bay, such as crabs, shrimps, squids, oysters, clams, snails, fish and more. You can enjoy seafood in different ways, such as grilled, steamed, fried, boiled or raw. You can also dip seafood in different sauces, such as salt, pepper, lemon, chili or vinegar. You can order seafood from your cruise or from local restaurants on the islands or mainland. Seafood is nutritious and delicious in Halong Bay.

Rice Noodles

Rice noodles are a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. You can find different types of rice noodles in Halong Bay, such as pho (noodle soup), bun (vermicelli), banh da (flat noodles) and banh cuon (rice paper rolls). You can eat rice noodles with different toppings, such as beef, chicken, pork, eggs, vegetables or herbs. You can also add different seasonings, such as fish sauce, soy sauce, vinegar or lime juice. You can order rice noodles from your cruise or from local restaurants on the islands or mainland. Rice noodles are filling and satisfying in Halong Bay.

Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a popular snack or appetizer in Vietnamese cuisine. You can find different kinds of spring rolls in Halong Bay, such as nem ran (fried spring rolls), nem cuon (fresh spring rolls) and nem chua (fermented spring rolls). You can fill spring rolls with different ingredients, such as meat, seafood, vegetables or noodles. You can also wrap spring rolls with different wrappers, such as rice paper, wheat flour or banana leaves. You can eat spring rolls with different sauces, such as peanut sauce, hoisin sauce or fish sauce. You can order spring rolls from your cruise or from local restaurants on the islands or mainland. Spring rolls are crispy and refreshing in Halong Bay.

Pho

Pho is a famous dish of Vietnamese cuisine. It is a noodle soup that consists of rice noodles, broth, meat and herbs. You can find different types of pho in Halong Bay, such as pho bo (beef pho), pho ga (chicken pho) and pho hai san (seafood pho). You can customize your pho with different toppings, such as bean sprouts, lime wedges, chili peppers or basil leaves. You can also adjust your pho with different seasonings, such as salt, sugar, vinegar or fish sauce. You can order pho from your cruise or from local restaurants on the islands or mainland. Pho is warm and comforting in Halong Bay.

Coffee

Coffee is a beloved drink of Vietnamese people. You can find different kinds of coffee in Halong Bay, such as ca phe sua da (iced coffee with milk), ca phe den da (iced black coffee) and ca phe trung (egg coffee). You can make coffee with different methods, such as drip filter, French press or percolator. You can also add different ingredients to your coffee, such as condensed milk, sugar, egg yolk or whipped cream. You can order coffee from your cruise or from local cafes on the islands or mainland. Coffee is strong and aromatic in Halong Bay.

Beer

Beer is a popular drink of Vietnamese people. You can find different kinds of beer in Halong Bay, such as bia hoi (draft beer), bia lon (bottled beer) and bia ruou (rice wine beer). You can drink beer with different snacks, such as peanuts, dried squid or roasted corn. You can order beer from your cruise or from local bars on the islands or mainland. Beer is cold and refreshing in Halong Bay.

These are some of the most delicious and authentic dishes and drinks that you can try in Halong Bay. However, there are many more dishes and drinks that you can discover on your own or with your guide. You can also join some cooking classes that are offered by your cruise or tour, such as learning how to make spring rolls, pho or coffee.

When to Visit Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a beautiful destination that can be visited all year round. However, the weather and climate can affect your travel experience in Halong Bay in different ways. Depending on the season or month, you may encounter different temperatures, rainfall, visibility, crowds, prices and events in Halong Bay. Here are some tips and recommendations on how to choose the best time to visit Halong Bay based on your preferences and expectations:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Halong Bay, as the weather is warm, dry and sunny. The average temperature is around 20°C and the rainfall is low. The visibility is high and the water is calm, which is ideal for sightseeing, cruising, kayaking and swimming. The spring is also the peak season for tourism in Halong Bay, which means that there are more cruises, tours, activities and events available. However, it also means that there are more crowds, noise and pollution in Halong Bay. The prices are also higher and the availability is lower, so you should book your trip in advance and be prepared to pay more.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is another good time to visit Halong Bay, as the weather is hot, humid and sunny. The average temperature is around 30°C and the rainfall is moderate. The visibility is medium and the water is warm, which is suitable for sightseeing, cruising, kayaking and swimming. The summer is also the off-season for tourism in Halong Bay, which means that there are fewer cruises, tours, activities and events available. However, it also means that there are fewer crowds, noise and pollution in Halong Bay. The prices are also lower and the availability is higher, so you can find some good deals and discounts.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another best time to visit Halong Bay, as the weather is cool, dry and sunny. The average temperature is around 25°C and the rainfall is low. The visibility is high and the water is calm, which is perfect for sightseeing, cruising, kayaking and swimming. The autumn is also the shoulder season for tourism in Halong Bay, which means that there are some cruises, tours, activities and events available. However, it also means that there are some crowds, noise and pollution in Halong Bay. The prices are also moderate and the availability is medium, so you should book your trip early and be flexible with your dates.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the worst time to visit Halong Bay, as the weather is cold, wet and foggy. The average temperature is around 15°C and the rainfall is high. The visibility is low and the water is rough, which is not favorable for sightseeing, cruising, kayaking or swimming. The winter is also the low season for tourism in Halong Bay, which means that there are few cruises, tours, activities and events available. However, it also means that there are few crowds, noise and pollution in Halong Bay. The prices are also low and the availability is high, so you can find some cheap and easy options.

Visit Halong Bay Vietnam Today!

Halong Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. It is a place where you can see the stunning beauty of thousands of limestone islands, caves, beaches and viewpoints. It is also a place where you can do the fun and exciting activities of cruising, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, biking and fishing. It is also a place where you can taste the delicious and authentic dishes and drinks of seafood, rice noodles, spring rolls, pho, coffee and beer. Halong Bay is a place that will give you an unforgettable experience of Vietnam.

If you are ready to book your trip to Halong Bay, you should visit my.trip.com (the client’s website), which offers great deals on flights, hotels, cruises and tours. You can find the best prices, availability and quality for your trip to Halong Bay on trip.com. You can also get more information and tips on how to plan and enjoy your trip to Halong Bay on trip.com.

Don’t wait any longer. Book your trip to Halong Bay with trip.com today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!