Travel Guide From Hanoi To Halong Bay 2023 - Halong Dream Land From Hanoi

If you are planning to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay in 2023, there are a few things you need to know before you go. From the best transportation options to the must-see attractions and activities in Halong Bay, this guide will help ensure that your trip is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. We will discuss the different transportation options available for getting from Hanoi to Ha long Bay, what to see and do while there, and how best to plan your trip so that it fits within your budget. With this information in hand, you can rest assured that your journey from Hanoi to Ha long Bay will be an unforgettable one!

 

Halong Bay, located in the Gulf of Tonkin in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique landscape. The bay covers an area of approximately 1,500 square kilometers and features over 1,600 limestone cliffs and islands that rise from the emerald waters. This majestic scenery has earned Halong a place on UNESCO's World Heritage List.    

                                                                                                                          Halong Bay View From Cave 

What makes Halong Bay truly unique is how it was formed. Millions of years ago, geological forces caused the land to sink and sea levels to rise, creating the dramatic karst landscape that we see today. The islands are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles.

Visitors can explore Halong by taking a boat tour or kayaking through the islands' hidden caves and lagoons. They can also visit floating fishing villages where they can learn about local cultures and customs while enjoying fresh seafood dishes. Whether you're a nature lover or simply seeking adventure, Halong is an excellent destination worth exploring during your trip from Hanoi in 2023.

Is it worth staying in Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is renowned worldwide for its diverse complex of limestone islands, pristine beaches, and wonderful cave system. The city center is also scattered with entertainment venues where you can take part in thrilling games or simply wander around.

Halong Bay can be visited almost all year round and plentiful seasonal cuisine options make it hard to skip. In addition, as a big tourism hub, it has developed various high-quality services like seaplane flights and snorkeling or scuba diving at affordable prices. The only problem to keep in mind is that the bay is usually touristy and especially overcrowded in the peak domestic tourist season from June to August so you need to book services further in advance and prepare for price rises.

 

                                Heavenly Paradise Cave From Halong Bay One Day Trip

So, is Halong Bay really worth it? Halong should truly be on everyone's bucket list. With its unique landscape of rock formation over an emerald body of water and impressive biodiversity, Halong Bay will easily be your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In case you are still wondering whether to visit Halong Bay, here are 12 reasons why you should pay a visit there.

Halong Bay - A renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site

 Halong Bay is included in many tourists' bucket lists when traveling to Vietnam. It is because the site is well-known worldwide as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

A journey to Halong will take you through some of the most picturesque scenery in the world. Halong allures visitors with outstanding features including thousands of limestone islands and islets rising above jade-green waters, unique geological and cultural values, and quaint floating fishing villages dating back thousands of years ago.

 Primitive nature of Halong Bay

Halong Bay is definitely a go-to destination if you are a nature lover. From untouched beaches to ancient floating villages, secluded islands, and an amazing system of natural caves and grottoes, natural beauty is what the bay draws your attention to. Notably, a vast majority of islands on Halong Bay are uninhabited and thus have no human footprints. Moreover, it is also home to Cat Ba Island which is filled with dense jungles and fauna and flora richness. A trekking tour through the national park allows you to see many endangered species like langurs or Golden-headed langurs and soak up the rustic, fresh atmosphere.

 

 One-of-a-kind geological formations

Thanks to an extensive system of marvelous caves, grottoes, and towering limestone karsts, Halong is a top destination for sightseeing. Natural geological movements formed millions of years ago have created numerous stalactites and stalagmites in different shapes and sizes. Surprise Cave is the largest and most beautiful cave on the bay. Besides, you should not miss a visit to Heaven Grotto, Luon Cave, Dark & Bright Cave, and Thien Canh Son Cave. Here you can combine a kayaking trip or leisurely sit on a bamboo boat and admire the picturesque scenery.

 

            

Fighting cocks islet - the symbol of Halong Bay!

 Diverse seafood and local cuisine in Halong Bay

Consider yourself a seasoned traveler, you cannot miss a refined culinary journey full of super-fresh seafood and regional dishes in the land of descending dragons. The best local specialties can be found in Ha Long Bay night market and restaurants along Bau Chay Road. The best food you should try in Halong are nodding cake, Australia corrugated, Tien Yen hill chicken, grilled chopped squid, sipunculid nudes, horseshoe crab, noodles with mantis shrimp, and so on.

 

                                                                                 Lunch On Cruise Halong Bay Day Trip 

 Multiple activities that suit different types of travelers in Halong

Halong boasts a big tourism hub in northern Vietnam where you can find many forms of entertainment. Apart from cruising, you and your families or groups of friends can get entertained in the Bay Entertainment complex, and take part in many interesting games. Meanwhile, if you are looking for adventurous experiences, trekking through jungles and hiking to the mountain are highly recommended.  Moreover, Halong is also a famous religious site for pilgrims. You can take a pilgrimage to Yen Tu Mountain or Ba Vang Pagoda and join many religious festivals and activities here.

 Easy accessibility

Diverse means of transportation enable you to transfer to Halong effortlessly. Options vary from the bus, D-car limousine, and private car to seaplane and train. From Hanoi, you can easily take a car, a private D-car, or a tourist coach to Halong Bay following new, high-quality highways. The total transfer time is around 3 - 3.5 hours. Meanwhile, the shortest and most convenient way to transfer from Hanoi to Halong is to take a 45-minute seaplane flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Tuan Chau Marina. The price is from US$175 to US$385/pax. The train is the cheapest and least common option if you are not pressed for time and expect to admire a scenic drive through the delta.

 Various types of accommodation in Halong

Visiting Halong Bay, you can experience a variety of accommodations. The most popular option is to spend a night sleeping on a cruise ship. In addition, hotels and resorts are available with different styles and price ranges. For instance, you can stay at Vinpearl Halong Resort & spa idyllically on Reu Island. Besides, rustic-style resorts on  Island are ideal options if you want to soak up the tranquility and be close to nature. Also, contemporary-style hotels abound in the city center that can help you save a great amount of budget.

 Affordable prices

Halong Bay is a budget-friendly tourist destination for a majority of domestic visitors as well as foreigners. Inclusive overnight cruise packages normally cost from US$100/pax if you take a 2d1n mid-range overnight cruise while the price for a premium cruise ranges from US$160 - US$300/pax. The package usually includes meals, activities onboard, and entrance tickets to sightseeing spots. Moreover, if you stay in the city center, accommodation prices and services are also very reasonable. 

Besides, transportation costs from nearby areas to Halong are inexpensive. The ticket prices for tourist coaches to Halong Bay are from US$5-US$10/pax/one way while it is much higher when you take D-car Limousine or seaplane flights.

 Developed services in Halong Bay

Apart from typical activities like cruising, kayaking, swimming, or mountain climbing, visitors to Halong Bay have numerous chances to participate in exciting and thrilling activities. For instance, a 25-minute seaplane tour takes you over Halong admiring its marvelous structures from a low altitude. Additionally, you can book a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to contemplate colorful coral reefs and the diverse marine system.

 A fantastic overnight cruise experience on Halong

 

                                                              View Inside Paradise Cave One Day Trip 

Whether you spend 2days or 3days on an overnight cruise ship, there are various typical activities awaiting you to explore onboard.  In the late afternoon, you will join a sunset party drinking, listening to live music performances, and chilling out in a relaxing atmosphere followed by a hearty dinner or BBQ. Afterward, you can take part in board games, squid fishing, or singing karaoke upon your preferences. Overnight onboard is also an extraordinary experience as you will have an indulgent night's sleep, being embraced by the serenity and peace in the anchor area. Moreover, early birds can also experience a lot of morning activities like practicing tai chi, yoga class, and taking stunning photos at dawn.

 It can be visited almost all year round

Featuring a tropical climate weather pattern with four distinct seasons, Halong Bay, in fact, can be visited at any time during the year except for the stormy season from June to August. Its peak tourist season is from October to April when the temperatures are endurable and there is a low amount of rainfall. With a high number of sunshine hours, the visibility is also clear for you to enjoy outdoor activities.

 Plenty of nightlife activities in Halong

Halong Bay is known as a safe and friendly city for experiencing nightlife activities. Although it is not as vibrant and bustling as big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, nightlife in Halong Bay still has its own unique features. Instead of sleeping overnight onboard, you can spend a night doing various things such as wandering around the night market, watching the Water Music show on Tuan Chau Island, and taking a street food tour.

 

            Kayaking in Halong Bay to Discover Underground Cave Halong Bay One Day Tour

How far away from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

 Located about 170 kilometers east of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, Halong Bay is easily accessible by road and boat services from Hanoi.

How long does it take to get from Hanoi to Halong?

Planning a trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi? The journey can take anywhere from 2,5-3 hours depending on the mode of transportation you choose. There are various modes of transportation available, including buses, minivans, private cars, and trains. The most popular way to get there is by coach or minivan and private car. Each option offers its own unique advantages and drawbacks when it comes to time and cost.

How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

You can get from Hanoi to Halong Bay by the 6 main types of transport, which includes motorbike, coach, shuttle, private car, train, helicopter, and waterway transport (in Hai Phong).

This little article will provide the most up-to-date (2022) guide on these 6 main types of transport to Halong from Hanoi (or vice versa) and help you find the cheapest and fastest option.

For each transport, we will also show you every step of how to book.

Hanoi To Halong Bay Map

 

 

Halong Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province. Previously, it took 4 hours to get there, now it only takes 2.5 hours to move from one city to another.

Noi Bai International Airport- 30 km (19 miles) away from Hanoi. This is also the most popular international airport to Halong Bay. Recently, there are other options that can be more convenient for foreign visitors: Van Don International Airport, which is 50 km away from Halong City; and Cat Bi International Airport, which is 44 km away from the city.

Most travelers will spend a day and explore the capital and travel to Halong Bay the next day.

However, after the new highway came into operation at the end of 2018, beginning of 2019, the distance between Hanoi and Halong is shortened from 175km to 125km. The traveling time from the capital to Halong reduces from 4 hours to 2-2.5 hours by car.

So travelers who have limited time still can visit Ha Long Bay from Hanoi and return on the same day.

Let's take a look at the chart below, it will show you the pros and cons, and also the price of each transport option.

Motorbike- The Adventure Choice

 Cost: Around 100,000 to 2,000,000 VND ($5-50/trip)

For adventurous, budget travelers who wish to explore local life and scenery, there is no better way than driving a motorbike to Halong.

There are different routers for your choices, like

How To Rent A Motorbike in Hanoi?

It is easy to rent a motorbike in Hanoi.

You can find many rental stores in the Old Quarter (or the West Lake area) served by English-speaking staff and owners. 

Depending on the duration of your stay in Vietnam, you can stay between monthly, weekly, and daily rental services.  

These rental shops provide various types of automatic, semi-automatic, manual, and touring bikes with brand names such as Honda, Yamaha, Attila, Air Blade, etc.

Here are a number of motorbike rental shops in Hanoi for your reference:

To rent, you will need to pay a deposit and some rental fee. 

Generally, the rental shop will request a copy of your passport. 

If you are required to provide your original assortment, try to negotiate because you may need your passport for other occasions.

Pros & Cons of the Motorbike Option

Pros

• Affordable
• Flexible to enjoy the landscapes whenever and where ever

Driving a motorbike is obviously a cheap and convenient option for free spirits who love to explore Vietnam as how they prefer. 

The daily rental and gasoline costs are quite affordable; plus you can start your journey whenever you want.

Cons

• Dangerous
• Time-consuming
• Uncomfortable
• Inconvenient

On the other hand, it is quite dangerous to engage in traffic in Vietnam, so make sure you are willing to take some risks and have good driving skills. 

Plus, it is easy to get lost, especially if this is your first trip to Vietnam. 

Even if you pay attention to the weather forecast before your trip, it can rain heavily all of a sudden, or your bike breaking down along the way. 

Last but not least, a 3-hour drive can be time-consuming and tiring.  

If you insist on this option, have a good motorbike and protection gear, a map, and a phone that can connect to the internet to google your way. 

It is best to go with a friend so that you have someone to rely on in case of an emergency. 

And remember that as a foreign visitor, you have no Vietnamese driving license so actually it is not legal to drive a motorbike around. 

Generally, local traffic officers do not make things hard for you but you need to wear a helmet and follow traffic signals to avoid any trouble.

Local Coach - The Budget Choice

 Cost: Around 200,000 to 1,000,000 VND ($10-50/trip)

For those who travel on a budget, this is an attractive option as it costs as low as 100,000 VND (less than $5).  

This means of transport usually has a lot of seats (the 45-seat type is quite common). 

It took only 3 hours to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by bus, thanks to the new Highway.

Sometimes it took longer since local buses have to go around bus stops to pick up their customers.

If you want a premium to the luxury bus (7-9 seats, air-conditioner, wifi), there are also a variety of options for you. Of course, the price could be double or triple compared with a budget bus.

So, how to go from Hanoi to Halong Bay by bus?

Firstly, choose a bus station and provider

You will want to choose the route that will stop closest to where your Ha Long cruise company port (please check with the one that you book with).

Here are some main local coach stations that run Hanoi to Quang Ninh Province: 

1. Book Directly At The Station in Hanoi

For example: If you decide to pick Kumho Viet Thanh provider in My Dinh coach station.

You can call the direct number of the Hanoi representative office in My Dinh Station to book a ticket or go to My Dinh Bus Station, ticket box numbers 8 and 9 right at the entrance.

The staff doesn't speak English, so it's best if you have prepared some simple Vietnamese phrases.

Here is the list of some reliable bus companies that you can consider:

 2. Book Online

To book a ticket online, go to https://vexere.com/en-US, put Hanoi as your location, and Halong as the destination.

Note: There are fewer online choices than the ones in the station. 

Depending on where your cruise port is, you should pick the nearest bus stop to the port. 

Most of the buses will stop at the city center in Quang Ninh. You can then take a taxi to the port.

If you go with a premium bus or a limousine van, they will have more drop-off stops that are closer to many port locations. 

 Select your date of departure and you will see a long list with details of coach provider, departure time, coach station, seat available, and ticket price. 

After clicking view seat, can proceed with booking your ticket.

The site is available in both Vietnamese and English.

If you don't want to worry about all the hassle of buying a ticket and taking extra transport to go between stations to where your cruise port is, the shuttle bus option below might be a better choice.

Next, get off at the station in Halong Bay

After getting off the bus, you need to catch a taxi, xe om (a kind of motorbike taxi), or simply order Grab with your smartphone. 

It costs you around VND 100,000 for a taxi and 50,000 or 70,000 vnd (~ $3/person) for xe om. 

This rate is for those who get off at Bai Chay station, which is 5 km from Tuan Chau Gate (Cruise Port). 

If you can speak with the coach driver, you should tell him to drop you off at Tuan Chau Gate. 

From here it takes you half of the taxi rate.

Is the Local Coach Option A Good Choice?

Pros

• Affordable

Yes, this option is cheap and convenient to find coach providers but it has many disadvantages.

Cons

• Language Barrier
• Time-Consuming
• Not Flexible
• Not Really Uncomfortable

The staff at the coach station don't speak English, so prepare yourself with body language and some simple Vietnamese phrases, or else you may miss your stop.

Coach stations are not located near the Old Quarter or West Lake where many visitors live so you need to catch a taxi, city bus, xe om, or Grab to the station.

Coaches often depart early so if you sleep in, you have to wait for the next coach in a very crowded and noisy coach station.

The traveling time is long, up to 3.5 hours. And the bus will go around to fill up customers along the road.  

Or maybe you will find some choices below that are more suitable for you.

Shuttle Bus- A Convenient Means Of Transportation from Hanoi

 When booking a cruise, you can ask the agent or a Halong Bay cruise company for a shuttle bus service. They normally will offer a combo package, which is cheaper than you book them separately.

Sometimes, cruise companies will run special promotions and offer free transfers if you book a cruise with them. 

The cost will vary among different companies and different types of buses. But the normal price will be around 250-500,000VND ($10-20) for a one-way ticket. 

In general, it is great because you don't have to worry about pick-up and drop-off points. 

The bus will pick you up at your hotel on request and take you to the cruise center where your cruise ship ports.

After your Halong Bay trip, the shuttle bus will wait outside the cruise center and take you back to Hanoi.

Previously, it took about 3.5 hours to get to Halong Bay the traveling time has now been reduced to 2.5 hours with the opening of the new Hai Phong to Hanoi High-way on 15th October 2018.

Pros & Cons of Shuttle Bus Options

Pros

• More Comfortable & Convienient
• Suitable For Family & Group
• Not Too Expensive

It offers more comfort and convenience than a local coach with normally 7-16 seats only.

The bus goes straight to Halong City and might have only a break within a short time (~15 mins). It will not welcome new customers along the way.

Besides air-conditioners, Wi-Fi and water bottles are also served on the bus. Drivers can usually communicate in basic English so this can reduce the language barrier.

You won't have to worry about buying bus tickets or taking an extra vehicle from the bus station to the port. 

Cons

• More expensive compared with a coach or motorbike
• Unable to enjoy the landscape like riding a motorbike

Private car - the utmost privacy

 If you do not want to share the trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay with strangers or wish to be totally flexible with your schedule, a private car is your best option. 

Whether you are a busy businessman on holiday or going on a vacation with your family, a private transfer will ensure the best privacy for you.

The price is often observed to be from 3,000,000 vnd ($150+) for a one-way trip. 

You can ask your tour or cruise operator to arrange this service for you or simply book a taxi. 

Here are some big taxi brands available in Hanoi.

Is it necessary?

If comfort, flexibility, and privacy really matter to you, then yes, you should consider a private transfer.  

If you want to take a taxi to Halong Bay, make sure to confirm the total cost with the taxi driver. They may charge you more and take a longer route than necessary.

Or check with your cruise providers, they might have a private car at airport services packaged with their cruise tour.

Seaplane- Breathtaking Halong Bay View

 Seaplane is the only option if you want to fly from Hanoi to Halong Bay. 

This is also the fastest way to travel from Halong and also the most expensive way. 

it takes only 45 minutes to travel from Hanoi to Halong by seaplane.

Traveling by seaplane you will get an amazing view of Halong from above, which a normal transfer or cruise cannot provide.

To book a seaplane, you can contact directly with the company that operates the seaplane. 

Hai Au Aviation is the only service provider in Halong Bay with a cost of around $400/person/round trip.

Bhaya Cruises also does offer a combo package with seaplane transfer and cruise at a very affordable price. 

Train - For A Slow But Safe Ride

 There is only one train that goes directly from Hanoi to Halong Bay with a ticket fare of about $4.5 per person

The train departs from Yen Vien Station in Hanoi go to Halong City Station at 4:55 am & returns at 13:50 pm every day. 

For those who only have a day to visit Halong, the long traveling time of 6 hours by train is definitely not a good choice.

From the Halong station, you will need to catch a taxi to get to the city center so that will add to the cost.

On the other hand, if you do not mind the long traveling hours and love the sound of the train whistle, this safe means of transport can offer you a lovely view of the scenery along the way.

If you prefer a more comfortable journey with flexible travel times, hiring a private car or minivan may be your best bet. Our company supplies private car services costs 120 USD for a round trip via Expressway, contact us via Whatsapp number: +84979703898

Is there a train from Hanoi to Halong?

The only train from Hanoi to Halong Bay is train No. 50501, which has operated for many years. Compared to other means of transport such as shuttle bus, car, motorbike, etc., the train is a more traditional way for Hanoi to Halong travel. It has become more popular with local people than foreign visitors.

In fact, the train has been mainly taken by small traders who sell products in markets around Quang Ninh and surrounding areas. As a result, the quality of tourism services may be less professional but it can bring tourists a chance to communicate with the locals!

The train No. 50501 journey takes passengers about over 7 hours to transfer from Hanoi to Halong. It departs from Yen Vien Station (the Northeast of Hanoi) at 4:55 a.m.; arrives at Halong Station (the East of Bai Chay City) at 12:00 p.m. every day. From Halong, the train leaves at 1:45 p.m. and reaches Hanoi at 8:30 p.m.

Climate Considerations: Suitable time to travel to Halong Bay

If you're planning to visit Halong Bay from Hanoi in 2023, it's essential to consider the climate. The best time to travel is during the dry season from October to April when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is low. However, this peak tourist season can lead to crowded boats and higher prices. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower fares, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October.

Regardless of when you decide to visit, be sure to pack accordingly with lightweight clothing for warm weather and a waterproof jacket for sudden rain showers.

Where to Stay: Hotels, Hostels in Ha Long Bay

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam in 2023, you won't want to miss the stunning beauty of Halong Bay. Located just a few hours from Hanoi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising out of the emerald waters. To help you plan your visit, we've put together a travel guide from Hanoi to Halong Bay that includes recommendations on where to stay.

When it comes to accommodations in Halong Bay, travelers have several options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. For those looking for a bit of pampering during their stay, there are plenty of high-end resorts offering incredible views and top-notch amenities. Some popular choices include Paradise Suites Hotel, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong Bay and Wyndham Legend Halong Hotel.

Food & Drinks: Local Cuisine, Seafood

 One of the best things about traveling in this part of the world is the abundance of delicious food and drinks waiting for you at every turn. From local cuisine to fresh seafood dishes, your taste buds will be in for a treat as you explore these stunning locations.

When it comes to food in Hanoi, there are countless options to choose from. Street food is a big part of Vietnamese culture, so be sure to try some pho (noodle soup) or banh mi (a type of sandwich). For those looking for something more upscale, there are plenty of restaurants offering traditional Vietnamese dishes like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) or ca kho to (caramelized fish in clay pot).

What to See: Caves and Islands

Hanoi and Halong Bay are two of the most popular travel destinations in Vietnam. Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Vietnamese culture. On the other hand, Halong Bay is known for its stunning natural beauty, consisting of thousands of limestone islands and caves.

One must-visit attraction in Halong Bay is exploring its numerous caves and islands. Some notable ones include Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave which are both breathtakingly beautiful. Kayaking through the bay's calm waters while surrounded by towering cliffs will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. The use of bamboo boats to explore some areas adds to the charm.

Another island worth visiting is Chicken Island - named after its resemblance to a chicken's head!

How long do you need in Halong Bay?

When planning a trip to Halong Bay, it's important to consider how many days you want to spend exploring the area. While it is possible to do one day Halong cruise from Hanoi, most travelers opt for at least one or two nights on a boat in the bay. This allows for more time to experience the beauty and tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For those with limited time, a day trip from Hanoi can still provide a taste of what Halong Bay has to offer. However, if you have more time and want to fully immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and activities available in Halong Bay, we recommend staying overnight on a boat. This will allow you ample opportunities for kayaking, swimming, hiking, and exploring local fishing villages.

Ultimately, how long you stay in Halong Bay depends on your personal preferences and travel itinerary. A 2-3 day trip is ideal if you want to take your time seeing everything that this stunning location has to offer but even just one night can give you enough time for an unforgettable experience.

Halong Bay Day Trip

Pros

• Suitable for travelers with limited time but keen on visiting Halong Bay
• One day tour to Halong  are offered at reasonable rates
• Offers panoramic views and a brief but wonderful experience of Halong Bay 

Cons

• Travelers may feel rushed due to limited cruising time, which can be as short as 4 hours
• Passengers will miss the opportunity of seeing the beauty of Halong Bay at night 
• There isn't sufficient time to explore everything in Halong Bay 

Halong Bay 2-Day Tours

Pros

• Suitable for travelers who want more time to enjoy Halong Bay 
• The overnight cruise offers a trip to less touristy routes such as Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay
• Considered by many as the best way to see and experience Halong Bay
• This cruise offers more activities to make sure the time you spend in Halong Bay is worth your money

Cons

• More expensive than the Day Cruise and the rate may change depending on the time of the year
• Still somewhat restricted in terms of how many Halong Bay attractions can be visited. This is when compared with the 3 days 2-night trip

Halong Bay 3-Day 2-Night From Hanoi

Pros

• Ideal for those on extended vacations and who want the ultimate experience in Halong Bay
• Passengers have more time to relax and engage in different on and off-board activities
• Offer more time for shopping and witness the local life in Halong and Quang Ninh

Cons

• 3 Days cruises are generally more expensive than the first two options 
• Some travelers may find it boring to do repeated sessions of Tai Chi and squid fishing

The pristine beauty of Halong is definitely worth an additional day. A lifetime experience, for sure! Source: Flo Shih

Key Take away: To explore the beauty of Halong, 2 days cruise is fairly necessary, but 3 days is a sufficient amount for the ultimate experience. 2 days in Halong Bay can only bring you to near and too-often-crowded attractions. So, if your time and budget permit, an additional day will get you to farther and untouched destinations with more activities and more time to spare!

Again, the decision of going on a 2 or 3 days cruise totally relies on your personal preference. If you have a hefty budget and lots of spare time, then why not go for a fully spectacular 3 days tour? On the other hand, you can always go for the 2-day tour if your time and money are somewhat limited.

Before we finally end this post, we would like to share a few more commonly asked questions

What is the best time to visit Halong Bay - The Halong Bay Weather?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It all depends on your concept of a perfect trip. It depends on whether you are after the best deal or the best time to come when the weather is at its finest. If you are concerned about the weather, schedule your visit from September to November or from March to May. These periods are ideal for a memorable trip to Halong Bay. If you are traveling on a budget and wish to get the best possible deal, then book your trip from May to September. This is considered the off-season and most cruise companies offer huge discounts on cabin accommodation. You may want to read our related post on the best time to visit Halong Bay if you wish to know more about this topic.

How many days should I stay in Hanoi?

Two to three days are enough to take in all the sights and sounds of this colorful, 1000-year-old city. You will have ample time to see all the major attractions including the Old Quarter and North Hoan Kiem, Ngoc Son Temple, Hoa Lo Prison the Hanoi Hilton, Van Mieu (Temple of Literature), Vietnam Army Museum, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Nha Tho Cathedral. You will also be able to try the local coffee, cat

Can you visit Halong Bay on a day trip from Hanoi?

 Visiting Halong Bay as a day travel from Hanoi is possible. There are plenty of tour operators that offer full-day tours departing from Hanoi. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, a boat cruise around the bay, lunch onboard, and visits to popular attractions such as the Thien Cung Cave or Sung Sot Cave.

Day Trip Activities: Kayaking and Bamboo boat in Ba Hang floating village, Discover the Thien Cung Cave

Ba Hang floating village, located in the beautiful Ha Long Bay, offers a unique opportunity to explore its waters and discover the hidden beauty of Thien Cung Cave. Kayaking and bamboo boat trips offer a great way to experience the stunning views of this area. With experienced guides, you can explore this hidden gem and enjoy kayaking underground tunnels, exploring caves, and admiring the stunning rock formation. One Day cruise to Ba Hang floating village is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

You may be interested: Day Trip to Halong Bay From Hanoi

How to book a tour before you arrive in Vietnam? Can I book Halong tour from Hanoi?

When planning a visit to Halong Bay, it's essential to book your tour in advance. This way, you can ensure that you get the best deals and avoid any last-minute disappointments. There are several ways to book a tour before arriving in Vietnam, including online bookings, travel agents, and hotel concierges.

One of the most convenient ways to book a tour is through an online booking platform. These platforms allow you to compare prices from various tour providers and choose the one that fits your budget and preferences. You can also read reviews from other travelers who have taken the same tours and get an idea of what to expect.

 It's important to do some research beforehand so that you know what type of experience you're looking for and what price range is reasonable for that experience. With proper planning, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning beauty of Halong Bay without worrying about logistics or costs.

Conclusion: Spectacular Beauty

To sum up, making a trip to Halong Bay tour is a rewarding experience that offers breathtaking natural beauty along with cultural insights. By keeping these tips in Love Vietnam Travel's blog in mind for your Halong Bay coming trip in 2023, you will have an enjoyable adventure that you will cherish forever!