About Quang Ninh
Located in northeastern Vietnam, Quang Ninh is a province known for its diverse topography, ranging from emerald seas and limestone karsts to lush forests and mountainous terrain. It is home to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Bai Tu Long Bay, often described as Halong’s quieter, less touristy neighbor. The province’s rich natural beauty makes it one of Vietnam’s most scenic destinations.
Historically, Quang Ninh played a significant role in Vietnam’s development. During the feudal era, Van Don was a thriving commercial port attracting merchants from across Asia, and the nearby Bach Dang River was the site of three pivotal victories over foreign invaders. Later, the French colonial period transformed the area into Vietnam’s first industrial center with coal mining in Cam Pha and Hon Gai. Today, Quang Ninh is a blend of history, culture, and natural splendor, offering visitors a wide variety of things to do in Quang Ninh.
Best time to visit Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh is located in northern Vietnam, sharing similar weather patterns with Hanoi and other northern provinces. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: a hot, rainy summer and a cooler, drier winter. Unlike central or southern Vietnam, winters in Quang Ninh can get quite cold, especially in December and January.
The dry season, from October to April, offers the most pleasant weather, with the best time to visit being between October and December when temperatures are mild, skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal—perfect for exploring Halong Bay and other outdoor attractions.
The rainy season, from May to September, brings higher humidity and frequent showers, with the risk of typhoons in late summer. While this period sees fewer tourists and lush landscapes, it’s less ideal for boat trips and outdoor activities due to potential disruptions.
How to travel to Quang Ninh
Getting to Quang Ninh depends on where you plan to visit. For many, it means heading to a cruise port in Halong City, but it could also involve reaching one of the islands in Bai Tu Long Bay or exploring the off-the-beaten-path mountain areas near the Chinese border. Here’s a guide to the key transportation hubs and options for reaching this diverse province.
Airports in and around Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh has its own airport, but it may not always be the most convenient option. Here’s a quick guide:
Van Don International Airport
Van Don International Airport is located in Quang Ninh but is relatively small, with only one domestic route to Ho Chi Minh City. It’s over an hour’s drive to Halong City’s cruise ports, making it less ideal for most visitors. However, it’s a good option if you’re heading to the islands of Bai Tu Long Bay, as it’s close to Cai Rong Port, where ferries to the islands depart.
Cat Bi International Airport
Situated in Hai Phong, Cat Bi International Airport is closer to Halong City and better connected, offering flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Dalat, Can Tho, and Phu Quoc, as well as international routes to China and Korea.
Noi Ba International Airport
Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport is about 2.5 hours from Halong City and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. From this airport, you can book direct buses to Halong City or arrange a taxi or private transfer.
Getting to Halong City & Tuan Chau Harbour
Halong City is the main gateway for Halong Bay cruises, with Tuan Chau Harbour being the most commonly used port. Tuan Chau is an island connected to the mainland by a long land bridge and serves as the departure point for most cruises.
Cruise arranged transfers
Most Halong Bay cruises include transfers from Hanoi as part of their package or offer it as an optional extra. These transfers, typically by bus or van, are convenient and budget-friendly, often departing from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Buses
If you’re traveling independently, buses are a reliable option for reaching Halong City. While most cruise packages offer shared transfers from Hanoi, they often don’t provide options from other destinations, making buses a practical choice if you’re not joining a cruise or arriving from elsewhere.
- Hanoi to Halong City: This is the most common route, with multiple daily departures. Travel time is about 2.5–3 hours, depending on the service. Options range from budget sleeper buses to more comfortable limousine vans.
- Ninh Binh to Halong City: A popular route for travelers connecting two iconic destinations. The trip takes approximately 4.5–5 hours.
- Hai Phong to Halong City: This short route, about 1 hour, is ideal for those flying into Cat Bi International Airport and heading to Halong Bay.
Bus connections to other parts of Quang Ninh
For destinations beyond Halong City, road travel is often the only option. Most bus routes to smaller or remote towns in Quang Ninh originate in Hanoi, as these areas are not large enough to have direct connections with other destinations in Vietnam. From Hanoi, you can access key towns in Quang Ninh via the following routes:
- Hanoi to Cam Pha: A 3-hour trip to a town with ferry connections to islands in Bai Tu Long Bay.
- Hanoi to Mong Cai: A 4-5 hour journey to the Chinese border town.
- Hanoi to Binh Lieu: A 4-hour trip to the mountainous areas of Quang Ninh, though bus options are limited.
Private car
Hiring a private car is the most hassle-free way to travel in Quang Ninh. Unlike taxis, private cars work with fixed prices, which are agreed upon in advance. This option is ideal for:
- Transfers from Hanoi, Ninh Binh, or other destinations to your cruise port or hotel.
- Customized itineraries, including sightseeing stops along the way.
- Multi-day trips to explore remote areas.
Things to do in Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh offers an incredible variety of experiences, from exploring the world-famous Halong Bay to discovering lesser-known gems like Bai Tu Long Bay and the mountain scenery of Binh Lieu. Whether you’re here for stunning natural landscapes, cultural insights, or unique local experiences, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Quang Ninh that cater to all kinds of travelers.
1. Halong Bay
Halong Bay is Quang Ninh’s crown jewel and one of the most iconic destinations in Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its emerald-green waters and thousands of limestone karsts and islands, creating an otherworldly seascape. Recognized as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it’s not only the highlight of Quang Ninh but a must-see for anyone visiting Vietnam.
Cruises
The best way to experience Halong Bay is by joining a cruise, as it’s impossible to explore the bay on your own. Cruise options range from budget-friendly boats to luxurious vessels offering high-end amenities. A typical cruise itinerary includes stops at caves, floating villages, islands with beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Most cruises also handle transportation from Hanoi, providing a hassle-free experience.
Scenic Flight
For a truly breathtaking view of Halong Bay, consider a scenic seaplane flight. These flights typically last about 25 minutes and offer a bird’s-eye perspective of the bay’s unique topography. While not an alternative to a cruise, it’s a fantastic way to complement your trip, either before boarding your cruise or after returning to the harbor.
2. Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay, located northeast of Halong Bay, offers a quieter alternative with similar stunning limestone karsts and islands. Its more remote location and lesser-known name mean fewer tourists, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more tranquil experience. Like Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long is best explored by cruise, with plenty of options ranging from budget to luxury.
Islands of Bai Tu Long Bay
One unique feature of Bai Tu Long Bay is its larger islands, some of which have accommodations and small fishing towns. Notable islands include:
- Co To Island: Known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere, Co To is a great place to escape the crowds.
- Quan Lan Island: Offers a mix of unspoiled beaches and local fishing village life, making it perfect for those seeking a more authentic experience.
Getting to these islands requires a combination of road travel and ferries, so they’re better suited for longer trips rather than short visits.
3. Halong City
Halong City is primarily a transit point for visitors heading to Halong Bay cruises. While it’s not a must-visit destination, it has several attractions and conveniences for those who need to spend some time here. The city offers a variety of restaurants, shopping options, and even a bit of nightlife.
Tuan Chau Island
Tuan Chau Island is where most Halong Bay cruises depart. Besides its harbor, the island features resorts, beaches, and a water park. While it’s not an authentic cultural destination, it can be a convenient place to stay if you prefer to be close to your cruise departure point.
Quang Ninh Museum
This modern museum in Halong City showcases the history, culture, and natural heritage of Quang Ninh Province. Its striking architecture and well-curated exhibits make it worth a visit if you’re spending time in the city.
4. Binh Lieu
While Quang Ninh is best known for its coastline, the mountainous area of Binh Lieu offers a completely different experience. Known for its scenic border road and lush landscapes, Binh Lieu is home to some of northern Vietnam’s most stunning mountain scenery and unique ethnic cultures.
The area is inhabited by ethnic minorities such as the Dao, who are recognized for their traditional long red hats and colorful clothing. Visitors can explore local markets, trek through picturesque hills, and experience rural life. However, traveling here can be challenging for foreigners, as permits are required to access the scenic border road.
5. Van Don Island
Van Don is officially an island within Bai Tu Long Bay, but its large size and connection to the mainland via bridges make it feel more like part of the mainland. The southern part of the island is more developed, centered around Cai Rong town, which serves as a hub for ferries heading to smaller, more remote islands in Bai Tu Long Bay, such as Co To and Quan Lan.
Beyond Cai Rong, Van Don remains relatively untouched, with small fishing villages, mountains, forests, and a rugged coastline featuring rocky cliffs and a few beaches. While not a typical tourist destination, it offers opportunities for short hikes, visits to local pagodas, and glimpses of authentic island life.
6. Mong Cai Border Town
Mong Cai is located at the northeastern tip of Quang Ninh, right on the border with China. While it’s not a must-visit destination, Mong Cai plays an important role as one of the few official border crossing points for foreigners between Vietnam and China.
The town itself is a bustling trading hub, with large markets selling everything from local Vietnamese goods to imported Chinese products. Mong Cai also has a beach, which, though not ideal for a traditional beach holiday, offers a unique experience, particularly with its luxury hotel catering to travelers crossing the border.
7. Yen Tu Mountain
Known as the “Buddhist capital of Vietnam,” Yen Tu Mountain is a sacred site located in Uong Bi City. It has been a center for Buddhist pilgrimage for centuries and is associated with King Tran Nhan Tong, who abdicated his throne to become a monk here.
Visitors can hike to the summit or take a cable car for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The journey includes stops at ancient pagodas, temples, and stone steps winding through lush forests. Yen Tu is an excellent destination for those interested in Vietnamese culture and history.
8. Dong Rui Mangrove Forest
Located near Van Don, Dong Rui Mangrove Forest is one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in northern Vietnam. It’s an important biodiversity hotspot and an off-the-beaten-path destination for nature lovers.
Visitors can explore the mangroves by boat, learn about the local ecosystem, and even see migratory birds during certain seasons. While facilities are basic, the experience offers a unique and peaceful escape from the more touristy areas of Quang Ninh.
