Things To Do
in Hạ Long
Hạ Long, Vietnam is famous for its stunning natural beauty, with thousands of limestone islands dotting the emerald waters of Hạ Long Bay. Visitors can cruise through the bay on traditional wooden junks and enjoy breathtaking views of the towering karst formations. The area is also home to various caves, grottoes, and floating villages, offering unique cultural experiences for tourists.
Hạ Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting travelers from around the world seeking a glimpse of its magical landscapes.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat tour of Ha Long Bay, admiring the stunning limestone karsts. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest caves in the area.
Enjoy a seafood lunch on the boat while cruising through the bay. After lunch, take part in water activities like kayaking or swimming in the serene waters.
Return to your hotel and freshen up before exploring the local night market. Savor some street food while shopping for local crafts and souvenirs.
Begin with a visit to the fishing village to learn about the local lifestyle. Engage with the fishermen and take a small boat tour around the village.
Enjoy lunch on a floating restaurant with freshly caught seafood. Then embark on a hike to the viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of Ha Long Bay.
Head back for a cozy dinner at a seaside restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquility of the bay at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural beauty with thousands of limestone islands and islets.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with ancient caves and fishing villages.
- Popular tourist destination with a variety of activities such as cruising, kayaking, and swimming.
- Great seafood and local cuisine to enjoy.
- World Heritage Site recognition by UNESCO.
- Can be overcrowded with tourists, especially during peak seasons.
- Environmental concerns due to pollution and over-tourism.
- Limited infrastructure in some areas, affecting accessibility and comfort.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with rain and fog impacting visibility.
- Higher prices during peak tourist seasons can make it more expensive for travelers.
Best Activities in Hạ Long
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a cruise to explore the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Paddle through the limestone karsts and hidden lagoons for an up-close experience of Hạ Long Bay's natural beauty.
Explore the mysterious caves and grottoes that dot the limestone islands in Hạ Long Bay, such as Thien Cung Cave and Sung Sot Cave.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing on the limestone cliffs of Hạ Long Bay, offering unique views of the bay from above.
Unwind on the beautiful beaches of Hạ Long Bay, such as Ti Top Island, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and unique scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hạ Long with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hạ Long
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the bay and city skyline
Popular for its panoramic views of Hạ Long Bay and great photo opportunities
Provides various picturesque spots around the bay for photography
Food in Hạ Long
Hạ Long Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory dish featuring tender fish braised in a fragrant pepper sauce, typically served with steamed rice. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants along the Hạ Long Bay waterfront.
Must-Try!
Crab meat mixed with vegetables and spices, wrapped in rice paper and deep-fried to crispy perfection. Sample this delicious street food at the Hạ Long Night Market.
Delicate steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots, served with dipping sauce. Look for small local eateries or street vendors for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hạ Long better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market comes alive at night, offering a wide array of street food stalls serving everything from fresh seafood to traditional Vietnamese snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local flavors amidst a vibrant atmosphere.
A vibrant local market where you can explore an assortment of fresh produce, seafood, and local culinary delights. Engage with friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the authentic food culture of Hạ Long.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hạ Long, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language and gestures such as bowing or offering to help them.
When entering someone's home or certain establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
When dining in Hạ Long, it is polite to wait for the eldest or the most senior person to start eating before beginning your own meal. It is also customary to leave a little food on your plate to show that you are full without wasting the entire meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hạ Long with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hạ Long
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Vietnam, including Hạ Long. In most situations, tipping is not expected or required. However, in some higher-end restaurants and hotels, a 5-10% service charge may be added to the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
Payment in Hạ Long, Vietnam is predominantly done in cash, especially for small purchases and in more local establishments. Larger hotels, restaurants, and some tourist attractions may accept credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash. ATMs are widely available in tourist areas for withdrawing cash in the local currency (Vietnamese Dong).
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hạ Long.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather and blooming flowers. Expect crowded tourist spots and higher prices.
Hot and humid weather, with occasional heavy rain. Popular time for beach activities and water sports.
Mild weather and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities and cruising in Hạ Long Bay.
Cool and dry weather, suitable for exploring caves and hiking. Fewer tourists and lower prices, but occasional foggy days.
Hạ Long at Night
Hiking in Hạ Long
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning views and challenging trails, Trạm Tấu Mountain offers an engaging hiking experience amidst lush greenery.
This national park features a variety of hiking trails through stunning landscapes, including forests, mountains, and coastline.
Located on Cat Ba Island, this park boasts diverse trails, rich wildlife, and breathtaking views of the surrounding waters.
Offers serene hiking paths with beautiful beach views and the chance to explore local flora and fauna.
A spiritual site with a range of hiking options, famed for its temples and stunning mountainous scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hạ Long through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hạ Long by plane.
Located about 165 kilometers northwest of Hạ Long, this is the main airport serving Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. It handles a considerable amount of international air traffic.
Situated approximately 70 kilometers from Hạ Long, this airport serves Hai Phong and the surrounding areas, offering both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 50 kilometers from Hạ Long, this is a newer airport that mostly caters to domestic flights with some international routes.
About 150 kilometers to the south of Hạ Long, this airport serves Huế and the central region of Vietnam, providing both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, making up a significant portion of Hạ Long's population.
An ethnic minority group primarily found in northern Vietnam, including in Hạ Long.
Another ethnic minority group, known for their distinct culture and traditions.
A minority group with a rich cultural heritage, located primarily in northern Vietnam.
An ethnic group primarily found in southern Vietnam, with a smaller presence in Hạ Long.
Includes various smaller ethnic communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Hạ Long.
The Soul of Hạ Long
Discover the essence of Hạ Long through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Hạ Long, with many local clubs and enthusiastic fans supporting both local and national teams.
Badminton is widely played recreationally and competitively, with numerous courts available in community centers and schools.
Basketball has been gaining popularity among the youth in Hạ Long, with schools and parks providing facilities for playing.
Given Hạ Long's coastal location, swimming is a popular activity, both for leisure and as a competitive sport.
Various forms of martial arts, particularly traditional Vietnamese styles, are practiced widely, with many local schools and competitions.
Volleyball is played both on the beach and in indoor venues, enjoying popularity among locals and tourists alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hạ Long.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prevalent in the local cuisine, many restaurants and street food vendors in Hạ Long offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as fresh spring rolls, flavorful stir-fried vegetables, and tofu-based dishes.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy rice-based dishes, seafood, and dishes made with rice paper, which are commonly available across Hạ Long. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly, and many establishments will accommodate accordingly.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hạ Long with these cultural adventures.