3N2D tour to the world famous Bay Area, where nature paints landscape masterpieces
Detailed 3-day, 2-night self-guided Ha Long travel itinerary, including Ha Long Bay attractions, Cat Ba Island, local cuisine, cost-saving tips and convenient ways to get around.
Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO world natural heritage, is a dream destination for many tourists with thousands of limestone islands, mysterious caves and emerald green water.
A 3-day, 2-night trip is the ideal time to explore the beauty of Ha Long, from cruising the bay, kayaking in Cat Ba Island, to enjoying fresh seafood.
This article will provide detailed, easy-to-follow itineraries, along with practical tips to make your trip both economical and memorable. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned traveler, join me in planning an emotional journey!
Why is Ha Long a must-see destination?
Ha Long is not only famous for its majestic landscape but also offers diverse experiences: from cave exploration, mountain climbing, to relaxing on the beach.
With more than 1,600 large and small islands, Ha Long Bay is where you can feel the magic of nature, immerse yourself in coastal culture and enjoy relaxing moments with family and friends.
Imagine standing on the deck of a ship, watching the limestone pillars rising from the water, or enjoying seafood with your loved ones on the beach – these are unforgettable experiences that Ha Long brings.
Pre-Trip Preparation: What You Need to Know
To have a smooth independent trip to Ha Long, you need to prepare carefully. Here are the specific steps:
- Personal profile:Bring your ID card to book a room, rent a car or buy tickets.
- Transportation:From Hanoi (160km from Ha Long), you can take a bus (price 100,000-200,000 VND/way, companies such as Kumho, Phuc Xuyen), motorbike (about 3-4 hours), or private car (price 1,500,000-2,000,000 VND/day for a group of 4-6 people).
- Accommodation:Choose a hotel or homestay in Bai Chay or Tuan Chau area. The price of a 3-star hotel like Halong Bay Hotel is about 600,000-1,200,000 VND/night, a homestay like Cat Ba Island Resort is 300,000-500,000 VND/night.
- Weather:April-June and September-November are ideal times, with cool weather and little rain. Avoid the storm season (July-August) as it may affect cruise tours.
- Useful applications:Download Google Maps, Foody (find restaurants), and Klook to book cruise tickets or shuttles.
- Skin:Bring sneakers, sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Don’t forget a raincoat or umbrella if you go during the rainy season.
Book your transport tickets and accommodation 1-2 months in advance through platforms like Traveloka or Klook. Bring water and snacks to avoid overpriced purchases at tourist spots.
Detailed itinerary 3 days 2 nights in Ha Long
Day 1: Halong Bay Cruise and Cave Exploration
Morning:Depart from Hanoi at 7am to arrive in Ha Long around 10:30am. Check-in hotel in Bai Chay, then start the journey withHalong Bay Cruise Tour. Book a 4-6 hour tour through reputable companies (price 500,000-1,200,000 VND/person, including lunch). The tour will take you through highlights such as Ga Choi Islet, Dinh Huong Islet, and Sung Sot Cave - one of the most beautiful caves in the bay with magical stalactites.
Move:From Bai Chay center to Tuan Chau port (where the cruise departs) is about 10km, take a taxi or Grab (50,000-100,000 VND/way). If you go by motorbike, rent it at the hotel for 150,000 VND/day.
Noon:Lunch on the cruise with seafood dishes such as shrimp, squid, grilled fish (usually included in the tour price). If you want to save money, you can eat at a restaurant near the port before boarding the boat (price 50,000-100,000 VND/meal).
Afternoon:Continue the cruise tour with kayaking or bamboo boating at Ba Hang fishing village. This is an opportunity for you to explore the small corners of the bay, watching the life of fishermen. Then, return to Tuan Chau port and rest at the hotel.
Evening:Dinner atHa Long night market(Bai Chay Street), where you can find fresh seafood dishes such as grilled oysters, scallops, and squid rolls – Ha Long specialties (prices 50,000-150,000 VND/dish). Then, take a walk in the park or try the thrill of the Queen cable car (ticket 350,000 VND/person).
Tips:Book your cruise in advance through Klook for a good price and choose a boat with a Vietnamese speaking guide. Bring sunscreen and a hat when kayaking.
Day 2: Cat Ba Island and beach
Morning:After breakfast at the hotel (usually buffet price 50,000-100,000 VND), move toCat Ba Islandby ferry from Got wharf (40km from Bai Chay, ferry ticket 80,000 VND/person, 100,000 VND/motorbike). The ferry takes about 45 minutes, taking you through Lan Ha Bay - a "miniature Ha Long" with peaceful scenery.
Noon:Lunch at a restaurant on Cat Ba Island, with seafood dishes such as lobster, sea crab (price 100,000-200,000 VND/dish). If you want to save money, try the cheap eateries with squid vermicelli or crab rice noodles (30,000-50,000 VND/serving).
Afternoon:SightseeingCat Ba National Park(ticket 80,000 VND/person) to explore the primeval forest and climb to Ngu Lam peak to see the whole island. If you are traveling with children, choose Cat Co 1 or Cat Co 2 beach to swim and relax. You can also rent a bicycle (50,000 VND/day) to explore Cat Ba town.
Evening:Have dinner at a beachside restaurant or Cat Ba night market, enjoy grilled squid or seafood hotpot. Then, stay overnight at a homestay or hotel on the island (price 300,000-600,000 VND/night).
Tips:Book your ferry tickets early on weekends as they get very busy. Wear sneakers if trekking in Cat Ba National Park, and bring a swimsuit for Cat Co beach.
Day 3: Explore the cave and return
Morning:After breakfast, sightseeingMilitary Hospital(ticket 40,000 VND/person), a historic cave that was once a field hospital during the war. Next, visitCannon Fort(ticket 60,000 VND/person) to see the whole view of Lan Ha Bay and take check-in photos.
Noon:Have lunch in Cat Ba town, then take the ferry back to Ha Long (departure before 13:00). When arriving at Bai Chay, stop byQuang Ninh Museum(ticket 30,000 VND/person) to learn about the culture and history of the mining area.
Afternoon:Buy souvenirs such as squid rolls, dried squid, or Cat Hai fish sauce at Ha Long market. Then, depart for Hanoi (around 3-4pm to arrive before 7pm).
Tips:Check the ferry schedule from Cat Ba to Ha Long to avoid delays. Buy gifts at Cai Dam market for better prices than in the tourist area.
Compare means of transportation in Ha Long
| Vehicle | Advantage | Disadvantages | Cost (VND) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorbike | Flexible, easy to move around the city | Tired if traveling far, not safe at night | 150,000-200,000/day |
| Taxi/Grab | Comfortable, convenient for large groups | Costs more than motorbikes | 15,000-20,000/km |
| Ferry (to Cat Ba) | Beautiful view, cheap price | Depends on ferry schedule, crowded on weekends | 80,000/person, 100,000/car |
| Private car | Convenient, safe, fixed price | Reservation required | 1,500,000-2,000,000/day |
Frequently asked questions when traveling to Ha Long
1. When should I go to Ha Long?
April-June and September-November are ideal with cool weather and little rain. Avoid July-August because of the risk of storms, which can affect cruise tours.
2. How much does a 3 day 2 night trip cost?
One person needs about 2,500,000-4,000,000 VND (including transportation, food, entrance tickets, accommodation). Traveling in a group will save you money by sharing the cost of transportation and accommodation.
3. Do I need to book a cruise tour in advance?
Book in advance through Klook or directly with reputable companies to secure a spot and get a good price. Weekends and peak seasons often sell out early.
4. Are there any activities suitable for children?
Yes! Kayaking in Ba Hang, swimming in Cat Co, and visiting Sung Sot Cave are all suitable. Sun World Halong Complex also has a children's play area.
Ha Long 3 days 2 nights is an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the majestic natural beauty, explore coastal culture and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
From cruising through limestone islands, kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, to enjoying squid rolls at the night market, every moment is worth it. Plan today, pack your bags and explore this world natural heritage site your way!