Quang Ninh – Journey Through the Magnificent Historical and Natural Heritage Region

1. General introduction

Quang Ninh is a province located in the Northeast region of Vietnam, has both a land border with China and a long coastline adjacent to the Gulf of Tonkin. The province has an important strategic position, being the gateway to international trade and the connection center between the Red River Delta and the northern mountainous provinces. 

The North of Quang Ninh borders China, the West borders the provinces of Lang Son, Bac Ninh (former Bac Giang), Hai Phong (former Hai Duong), the South borders Hai Phong city and the East is the Gulf of Tonkin. With a coastline of about 250km and more than 2,000 large and small islands, Quang Ninh is considered "miniature Vietnam" thanks to the convergence of many unique terrain types and ecosystems. 

2. Outstanding destination

2.1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a symbolic tourist destination not to be missed in the Northeast region. This place has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage since 1994 thanks to the system of hundreds of limestone islands with strange shapes and winding caves amidst the calm sea. Tourists coming to Ha Long often experience boating, visiting caves or spending the night on a yacht to watch the sunrise and sunset on the water - a romantic and unforgettable experience. 

2.2. Yen Tu tourist area

Yen Tu tourist area is located at Yen Tu mountain, Thuong Yen Cong ward, Uong Bi city, Quang Ninh province. This is a scenic complex that combines spiritual tourism with a system of ancient pagodas, green mountain paths and sacred spaces that are very suitable for those who seek tranquility and experience Buddhist culture. Every year at the beginning of the year (around January to March of the lunar calendar), Yen Tu welcomes many tourists and Buddhists to make pilgrimages, participate in pagoda festivals, sightsee and contemplate in a majestic and pure atmosphere. 

2.3. Tuan Chau Peninsula

Tuan Chau peninsula in Ha Long city, Quang Ninh province, is a place that attracts tourists thanks to its clear blue beach, fine white sand and many modern amenities. This is not only a place to relax and swim, but also a vibrant entertainment area with shows, water music, beach games such as windsurfing, canoeing, parasailing... Visitors to Tuan Chau often visit the surrounding small islands, have fun with night art shows to fully enjoy their vacation.

3. Outstanding historical sites

3.1. Bach Dang historical site 

Bach Dang relic area is located along the Bach Dang river, stretching across Uong Bi city and Quang Yen town. This place is associated with the glorious victory in 1288 of the Tran Dynasty's army and people against the Mongol invaders. The ancient piles, Tran Hung Dao temple and preserved relics still tell the story of a golden page of the nation's history.

3.2. Tran Dynasty relic area  

The Tran Dynasty relic site is located in An Sinh, Trang An, Binh Khe and Thuy An communes of Dong Trieu town. This is the land of the Tran Dynasty with many works such as An Sinh temple, Quynh Lam pagoda and the tombs of the Tran kings. The relic complex bears a strong historical mark, reflecting the development and proud spirit of a prosperous dynasty.

3.3. Cua Ong Temple 

Cua Ong Temple is located on a high hill overlooking Bai Tu Long Bay, in Cua Ong ward, Cam Pha city. The temple worships Hung Nhuong Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tang and Tran Dynasty generals who contributed to keeping the Northeast Sea calm. The solemn temple space, blending with the scenery of sea and sky, creates a sacred and poetic destination.

4. The best time to travel

Quang Ninh is an ideal destination all year round, but the most beautiful period usually falls from April to September. At this time, the sky is clear, the sun is warm and the sea is calm, very suitable for visiting Ha Long Bay, swimming at Bai Chay beach or exploring islands such as Co To and Quan Lan. Those who love outdoor activities can comfortably kayak, watch the sunrise or enjoy fresh seafood by the beach.

From October to March next year, Quang Ninh has a more quiet and magical beauty. The weather is cold, sometimes with light fog, making the landscape hazy, suitable for pilgrimages to Yen Tu or visiting historical relics. 

5. Travel information

5.1  Buses 

Buses are an economical and convenient means of transportation for tourists who want to explore Quang Ninh. Currently, the province has 7 bus routes in operation, connecting areas such as Ha Long, Cam Pha, Uong Bi and Van Don. A popular route is route number 01: Bai Chay - Cai Rong, helping tourists move to the high-speed boat station to go to the islands.

5.2. Taxi 

Taxi is the right choice for those who want to move quickly and comfortably during their trip to Quang Ninh. Taxi services are present in most major cities of the province such as Ha Long, Cam Pha, and Uong Bi. Some popular companies include Mai Linh Taxi, Thanh Cong Taxi, and Ha Long Taxi.

5.3. Motorbikes for rent in Quang Ninh

Renting a motorbike is an ideal way for those who love freedom and want to actively explore destinations. Car rental prices range from 100,000 - 200,000 VND/day, depending on the type of car and rental period. Many stores provide good quality cars, delivering them to tourists in Ha Long.

6. Accommodation information

6.1. Wyndham Legend Halong – No. 12 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward

Wyndham Legend Halong is an outstanding 5-star hotel with a prime location on the banks of Ha Long Bay. The hotel has 217 luxurious rooms, modern design with views of the sea or city. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, two multi-cuisine restaurants, a bar and a relaxing lounge. This place is also very convenient to move to famous tourist destinations such as Sun World Ha Long and Queen Cable Car.

Regarding room prices, the average price at Wyndham Legend Halong ranges from 1,500,000 to 3,500,000 VND/night for standard room categories (Superior or Deluxe). Higher-end rooms such as Executive Suite or Grand Suite can reach 5,000,000 - 7,000,000 VND/night, depending on length of stay, view and whether breakfast is included or not. During peak season (May–August), prices can increase by about 20–30%.

6.2. Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long – Reu Island, Bai Chay Ward

Located entirely on a private island, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long offers a peaceful and luxurious resort space in the middle of the blue sea. The resort features classic European architecture, three private beaches and large indoor and outdoor swimming pools. A professional spa system and high-end restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine help visitors have a complete experience. Each room has a balcony facing the sea, providing beautiful views of Ha Long Bay.

Regarding room prices, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long has quite diverse prices:

Deluxe room: about 2,200,000 - 2,800,000 VND/night.  

Deluxe sea view room: about 3,000,000 - 3,500,000 VND/night.  

Executive Suite room: about 4,000,000 - 4,500,000 VND/night.  

Family Suite room: about 5,500,000 - 6,000,000 VND/night.  

Presidential Suite: has special prices, up to over 90,000,000 VND/night.  

The above price includes buffet breakfast for 2 adults, taxes, and basic service fees. Vinpearl regularly has promotions or 3-day-2-night combos with preferential prices of only 2,300,000 - 4,000,000 VND/person depending on the time of booking.

6.3. The Bay Homestay – No. 2 Mac Dinh Chi, Bai Chay ward, Ha Long city

The Bay Homestay has a youthful, gentle look with lots of green space and airy balconies. You can hear the waves and feel the ocean breeze when you open the windows, while the interior is warmly and comfortably arranged. The location is just a few minutes walk from Bai Chay beach, making it easy for you to explore beach activities and amusement parks nearby. Small, beautiful but inspiring space, very suitable for relaxing after a whole day of wandering.

Regarding room prices, The Bay Homestay has very affordable prices, ranging from 300,000 to 500,000 VND/night for a standard double room. Some large rooms or with sea views and private balconies can cost up to 600,000 - 800,000 VND/night. During the peak tourist season, prices may increase slightly but are still in the group of good priced homestays in the Bai Chay area.

6.4 Ha Long Lily Homestay – No. 30 Hoang Thi Hong Chiem Street, Hong Hai Ward, Hon Gai Port District

Lily Homestay is located in the heart of Hon Gai Port, in an area with easy access to many famous attractions. The homestay's design is neat and bright, many rooms have balconies overlooking the sea or city. This place stands out for its cleanliness, cozy atmosphere and friendly service, which guests often appreciate. In the morning here you will wake up to gentle sunlight and gentle sea breeze - a pleasant start for your journey to discover Ha Long.

Room prices at Ha Long Lily Homestay range from 700,000 to 1,000,000 VND/night for double or deluxe rooms. Some large rooms with balconies facing the sea, or rooms for families of 3-4 people cost 1,200,000 - 1,500,000 VND/night. On weekends or peak seasons, prices may increase slightly by about 10–20%.

7. Local cuisine and festival culture

7.1. Famous restaurant

Cua Vang Restaurant: 32 Phan Chu Trinh, Bai Chay, City. Ha Long

If you like fresh seafood and want to try special dishes like braised crab with bamboo shoots or signature crab hotpot, Cua Vang will be a choice worth trying. The restaurant is located not far from Bai Chay pier, has a spacious multi-storey space with modern interior. The food is served quickly, the staff is enthusiastic and the price is reasonable. Reference price is about 250,000 - 550,000 VND/person, seafood dishes are calculated by kg or by fish, depending on the type of seafood and preparation method; Specialties such as crab hotpot or braised crab may cost more.

Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant: Do Si Hoa Street, Cai Dam Urban Area, Bai Chay, Ha Long

Ngoc Phuong Nam impresses with its location facing the sea on three sides, providing a wide view of Ha Long Bay and Reu Island. The diverse menu includes shrimp, crab, oysters, geoduck... imported directly from local fishermen and skillfully processed to preserve the natural flavor. The space is delicately designed, with VIP rooms, gardens and high balconies creating a comfortable and romantic feeling. Reference prices range from 200,000 - 500,000 VND/person, depending on the type of seafood, number of dishes and service method (a la carte or set menu).

7.2. Famous specialties

Ha Long squid patties

Ha Long squid patties are made from freshly caught squid, pounded or pureed so that the mixture still retains its chewiness and natural aroma. When fried, the outer crust is golden and crispy, the inside is soft, and the patties have a light sea scent and sweet taste when bitten. Local people often eat squid rolls with rice rolls, white rice or simply dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce to highlight the flavor.

Quang Ninh sand worm

Sea worms are known as the "precious specialty" of Quang Ninh waters, often living along sandy shores and are very difficult to exploit. When preparing, sea worms can be stir-fried, steamed or made into porridge - each way brings out the natural sweetness and firm, non-fishy meat. Dried sea worms are also a valuable gift that many tourists choose to bring home, because they are easy to preserve and still retain the typical flavor of the sea.

7.3. Unique festival

Yen Tu Festival The festival is opened 

from January 10 and lasting for three spring months, attracting a large number of Buddhists and tourists from everywhere. Among the prominent rituals are the incense offering ceremony, the prayer opening ceremony and the pilgrimage to Dong Pagoda on the top of the high mountain. The scenery filled with flowers, clouds covering the mountains and the echoing sound of temple bells create a space that is both solemn and airy. Every year, people come to Yen Tu to find some peace of mind and pray for a peaceful and wholesome new year.

Tra Co communal house festival 

The festival takes place from around May 30 to June 3 of the lunar calendar in Tra Co ward, with sacrificial rituals, god procession and traditional boat procession. During the festivals, there are cultural and artistic activities, cooking competitions, and folk games for everyone to participate. Tra Co Communal House, an ancient structure that has existed for more than 500 years, is the center of activities on this occasion. The festival is an opportunity for local people to remember their ancestors and preserve the cultural beauty of the border coastal community.

8. Play area

8.1. Ha Long Dragon Park

Dragon Park is located in the Sun World Ha Long Complex, an attractive entertainment spot for both families and groups of young people who love thrills. This place has more than 30 diverse games, from roller coasters, free fall towers to areas specifically for children. The atmosphere in the park is always vibrant, especially on weekends and festivals. Visitors can comfortably take photos in beautiful landscapes such as the giant roundabout or fairy tale castle.

Reference ticket price:

High season (from late April to early September): Adults: 300,000 VND/ticket – Children (1m - 1.4m): 200,000 VND/ticket – Children under 1m: free.  

Outside peak season: Adults and children 1m or more: about 150,000 VND/ticket.  

There are also combo packages (Dragon Park + Water Park + Queen Cable Car) with prices ranging from 500,000 - 650,000 VND/adult ticket, depending on the time and promotion.

8.2. Entertainment area on Tuan Chau island

Tuan Chau Island is only a few kilometers from the center of Ha Long, featuring a modern entertainment area combined with a resort. There is an outdoor park, a dolphin and seal performance area and many thrilling games. Visitors can visit the dinosaur model at the King Kong area, walk around the lake and enjoy the cool green space. From Tuan Chau, you can also easily board a boat to visit Ha Long Bay during the day.

Reference ticket price:

Package ticket (including dolphin and seal performances, thrilling games, 5D movies, children's play area...): about 250,000 VND/ticket.  

Tuan Chau amusement park ticket price (outdoor games): 180,000 - 250,000 VND/ticket.  

King Kong area ticket price: 100,000 VND/adult ticket, children under 1 meter free.  

Tickets to Tuan Chau Island (excluding shows and games): about 280,000 VND/person.  

8.3. Bai Chay Old Town

Bai Chay Old Town is a neighborhood designed in a nostalgic style, reminiscent of the atmosphere of ancient Hanoi and Hoi An. The street is brightly lit in the evening, attracting many tourists to walk, take photos and enjoy local cuisine. The architecture here is warm yellow, with ancient tiled roofs and high hanging lanterns creating a very poetic feeling. Evening is the ideal time to admire the scenery, drink coffee and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Ha Long.

In particular, Bai Chay Old Town does not collect entrance tickets. Visitors can freely visit, check-in, or visit cafes, souvenir shops and specialty restaurants along the street. Costs only arise if you use food services or participate in folk games, so this is a suitable destination for everyone - from groups of young people to families with young children - to enjoy the bustling and unique atmosphere of Ha Long at night.

9. Suggested tours

9.1. Ha Long cruise during the day - departing from Tuan Chau

The tour takes tourists from Tuan Chau wharf to explore the majestic beauty of Ha Long Bay. The itinerary includes activities such as kayaking, swimming and visiting limestone caves. Guests can enjoy a seafood lunch right on the boat amidst the blue sea and rocky mountain scenery.

Reference price: Ranging from 1,000,000 VND to 2,500,000 VND/person, depending on boat type (3-star, 4-star or 5-star) and accompanying services such as kayaking, shuttle bus from Hanoi or tour guide. The most popular average price for a 1-day tour departing from Tuan Chau is about 1,400,000 VND/person (including lunch and sightseeing tickets).

Organizer: Local Tours (Local Tours Vietnam).

9.2. Tuan Chau tour 2 days 1 night - relax and explore Ha Long Bay

The tour is suitable for travelers who want to enjoy a short vacation by the sea. The itinerary includes an overnight stay at a hotel on Tuan Chau island and a tour of Ha Long Bay by boat. Outstanding activities are swimming, watching the sunset and enjoying local cuisine.

Reference price:

Group tour (weekend departure): 1,900,000 - 2,000,000 VND/person.  

Private tour for large groups (40 guests or more): about 1,600,000 VND/person.  

With overnight cruise packages on the bay (4–5 stars), prices range from 2,900,000 - 3,300,000 VND/person, including private cabin, 3 meals and activities such as kayaking and night squid fishing.

Organizer: Eco Travel Vietnam.

9.3. Tuan Chau - Ha Long Bay tour 2 days 1 night

The tour offers a combination experience between relaxation and nature exploration. Visitors can visit famous caves, kayak, walk on Tuan Chau beach and enjoy fresh seafood feast in the evening.

Reference price:

3-star standard tour: about 2,500,000 VND/person.  

4-star tour: ranges from 3,000,000 - 3,500,000 VND/person.  

High-end 5-star tour (for example luxury cruise ships such as Era, Doris, Heritage): from 3,800,000 VND/person or more, including private cabin, English tour guide, 4 meals and experiential activities.

Organizer: LuxTour.

10. Support information and other information

10.1. Department of Tourism of Quang Ninh province 

Address: 15th Floor, Inter-Agency Headquarters Building No. 2, Hong Ha Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

Contact phone: 0203 3 838 882 Function:

State management of tourism activities in the province.

Licensing, inspection, and handling of violations in the fields of travel, accommodation, and tour guides.

Receive feedback and complaints from tourists about tourism services and service attitudes.

10.2. Quang Ninh Provincial Police

Address: Group 6, Area 9B, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

Contact phone: 069.2808.100 Function: 

Receive denunciations and information about crimes.

Management of residence, passport, citizen identification, security and order.

Receiving citizens and handling emergency security and order situations 24/7.