Halong City is definitely worth visiting for a number of reasons! The city is home to the breathtaking Halong Bay, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. The bay is dotted with thousands of towering limestone formations, creating a stunning landscape that will leave you in surprise. You can explore the bay by boat, kayak, or take a seaplane tour for a unique perspective.
Halong city from above
Halong City translates to "descending dragon" and is derived from a legend that describes a dragon who descended into the bay and created the islands with its thrashing tail. Apart from Halong Bay, the city offers a rich cultural experience that is both unique and fascinating. You can visit local fishing villages to learn about traditional ways of life, explore ancient caves with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and immerse yourself in the history and culture of the area by visiting museums and landmarks.
Another reason to visit Halong City is the delicious local cuisine. Fresh seafood is abundant in the city, and you can sample a variety of dishes that are unique to the area. The city also offers a bustling night market where you can try local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
Finally, Halong City is a great place to relax and unwind. The city boasts beautiful beaches where you can soak up the sun, and there are plenty of spas and resorts where you can pamper yourself and rejuvenate your mind and body.
There are so many amazing places to visit in Halong City that it can be tough to decide where to start! So we will share with you our top 8 places to visit in this city:
1. Ha Long Bay
About Halong Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Halong City. The bay is located in the Gulf of Tonkin and is home to thousands of limestone karsts and islets that jut out of the emerald green waters, creating a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
Halong Bay from above
Halong Bay is home to a variety of caves that are worth exploring. Some of the most popular caves include Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and Dau Go Cave, all of which boast impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Aside from its natural beauty, Halong Bay is also rich in history and culture. The bay is home to a number of floating fishing villages, where you can see how locals live and work on the water. You can also visit some of the bay's many islands, each with its own unique charm and history.
Things to do in Halong Bay
There are so many activities to do in Halong Bay that it can be tough to decide where to start! Here are some of the top activities to consider when visiting this stunning natural wonder:
Boat Tours
One of the best ways to explore Halong Bay is by taking a boat tour. You can choose from a variety of different tours, ranging from small wooden boats to large luxury cruisers. Most tours will take you to some of the bay's most famous attractions, including floating villages, limestone caves, and stunning beaches.
Some exciting boat tours that you can experience are:
Halong Bay luxury cruise tour
Kayaking
Kayaking is another popular way to explore Halong Bay. Renting a kayak provides the opportunity to paddle through the bay's towering limestone cliffs at your own pace, allowing you to soak up the scenery and admire the breathtaking views. Alternatively, taking a guided tour allows you to discover some of the bay's more hidden corners while being provided with insights into the area's unique ecosystem and history.
If you are interested in kayaking, these are the places that provide renting services:
Kayak rental in Hang Luon area - Nam Tung One Member Limited Liability Company
Kayak rental in Ba Hang area - Kayaking Ba Hang
Kayak rental in Cua Van area - Hai Phong Ha Long Joint Stock Company
For travelers seeking a seamless and stress-free way to explore Halong Bay, VietnamStay provides guided kayak tours that cater to your every need. Our knowledgeable guides will take you to the most scenic spots and share insights into the bay's rich culture and history, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Rock Climbing
Halong Bay is home to some of the best rock climbing in Vietnam, with routes for all skill levels. Whether you are an experienced climber or a beginner, there are plenty of places to climb in the bay.
Swimming and Snorkeling
With its crystal-clear waters, Halong Bay is a great place to swim and snorkel. Many boat tours will make stops at some of the bay's best swimming spots, where you can cool off in the refreshing water or explore the underwater world with a snorkel.
Seaplane Tours
For a unique perspective on Halong Bay, consider taking a seaplane tour. You'll get a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape, and the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
2. Cat Ba Island
About Cat Ba island
Cat Ba Island is the largest island in Halong Bay and is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty and culture of the region. The island is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including lush forests, pristine beaches, and towering limestone cliffs.
One of the most popular activities on Cat Ba Island is hiking. The island has a number of hiking trails that wind through its forests and mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One of the most famous hikes is the trail to Ngu Lam Peak, which offers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands.
Cat Ba Island overview
Cat Ba Island is also known for its beaches, with some of the most popular being Cat Co Beach and Tung Thu Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores, making them the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
In addition to its natural beauty, Cat Ba Island is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The island has a rich history and is home to a number of ancient temples and pagodas, such as the Cat Ba Temple and the Quan Y Cave Temple.
Another popular attraction on Cat Ba Island is the Cat Ba National Park. The park covers a large portion of the island and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn about its unique ecosystem and see some of its incredible wildlife.
Things to do on Cat Ba island
Cat Ba Island is a treasure trove of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do on the island:
Hiking
With its lush forests and mountains, Cat Ba Island is a hiker's paradise. There are numerous trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the trail to Ngu Lam Peak and the hike to Frog Lake.
Beaches
Cat Ba Island is home to several stunning beaches, such as Cat Co Beach and Tung Thu Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Cat Ba national park
Cat Ba National Park
The Cat Ba National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife and offers numerous hiking trails for visitors to explore.
Visit Fishing Villages
Cat Ba Island is home to several traditional fishing villages, such as Viet Hai Village and Cai Beo Village. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the daily lives of the locals and sample some of the fresh seafood caught in the bay.
3. Tuan Chau Island
About Tuan Chau island
Tuan Chau Island is a small island located off the coast of Halong City in Vietnam. It is a popular destination for travelers due to its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and diverse range of activities.
One of the main attractions on Tuan Chau Island is its stunning beaches. The island has several stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water sports, such as kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing.
Tuan Chau island overview
Tuan Chau Island is also home to a number of luxurious resorts and hotels, offering visitors a comfortable and relaxing stay. Many of these resorts have their own private beaches, swimming pools, and other amenities, making them the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
In addition to its natural beauty and luxurious accommodations, Tuan Chau Island is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The island has a traditional Vietnamese village, where visitors can learn about the local culture and sample some of the delicious food.
Another popular attraction on Tuan Chau Island is Tuan Chau Park. The park features a range of activities, including a water park, a dolphin show, and a cultural performance center. Visitors can also take a cable car ride from the park to the top of a nearby hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Things to do on Tuan Chau island
Tuan Chau Island is a beautiful destination in Vietnam that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do on Tuan Chau Island:
Water Park
Tuan Chau Island's water park is a fun-filled destination for families and thrill-seekers alike, featuring a range of exciting water slides and attractions.
Dolphin Show
The dolphin show is a popular attraction on Tuan Chau Island, where visitors can watch trained dolphins perform a variety of tricks and stunts.
Dolphin show in Tuan Chau island
Cable Car Ride
Visitors can take a cable car ride from Tuan Chau Park to the top of the island's nearby hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Cultural Performance Center
Tuan Chau Island's cultural performance center offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and theater.
Jet Skiing
Tuan Chau Island is a popular destination for jet skiing, with several rental options available for visitors looking for an adventure sport.
Luxury Resorts
The island is home to several luxurious resorts, where visitors can indulge in a range of spa treatments, fine dining, etc
4. Bai Tu Long Bay
About Bai Tu Long bay
Bai Tu Long Bay is a stunning destination located in northeastern Vietnam, adjacent to the famous Halong Bay. Although less visited than its neighbor, Bai Tu Long Bay is known for its pristine natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
The bay is dotted with thousands of limestone islands and islets, creating a breathtaking natural landscape that visitors can explore by boat. Many of these islands are uninhabited, giving visitors a sense of being in a truly remote and untouched destination.
Inside Bai Tu Long Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay is also home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the underwater world of the bay.
The bay is also rich in cultural heritage, with several floating villages that have been inhabited by local fishermen for generations. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the daily lives of the villagers and sample some of the fresh seafood caught in the bay.
Things to do in Bai Tu Long bay
Bai Tu Long Bay offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Bai Tu Long Bay:
Boat Tours
Boat tours are a popular way to explore the bay's stunning natural beauty and visit some of the nearby islands and floating villages.
Kayaking on Bai Tu Long Bay
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to get up close and personal with the limestone islands and islets, as well as the bay's diverse marine life.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The clear waters of Bai Tu Long Bay offer great opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving to discover colorful coral reefs and marine life.
Cultural Tours
Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the daily lives and traditions of the local fishing communities and explore the floating villages.
5. Quang Ninh Museum and Library
About Quang Ninh museum and library
The Quang Ninh Museum and Library is a modern cultural complex located in the heart of Halong City. The museum and library aim to preserve and showcase the cultural heritage of the Quang Ninh province and promote education and research.
The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia displays that showcase the history, culture, and natural resources of the region. Visitors can learn about the province's geological formations, traditional customs, and economic development over the years. The museum also features interactive exhibits and activities for children, making it a fun and educational destination for families.
Quang Ninh museum and library
The library houses a vast collection of books, documents, and multimedia materials, including a dedicated section for the visually impaired. It also provides public access to computers and the internet, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers.
The complex also features a spacious outdoor park and lake, providing visitors with a peaceful and scenic space to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The Quang Ninh Museum and Library is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the region and is a great place to spend a day with the family.
Exhibits to see in Quang Ninh museum and library
The Quang Ninh Museum and Library has a wide range of exhibits showcasing the cultural, historical, and natural resources of the region. Here are some of the top exhibits to see:
Geological Formation
Visitors can learn about the geological history of the region and the formation of the famous Halong Bay.
Historical Exhibition
This exhibit showcases the history of the Quang Ninh province from prehistoric times to the present day, highlighting key events and significant figures.
Halong Bay geological & history
Culture Exhibition
The cultural exhibit showcases the rich customs and traditions of the region, including folk art, music, and dance.
Marine life
Visitors can learn about the diverse marine life of Halong Bay and the surrounding waters.
Virtual Reality Experience
The museum offers a virtual reality experience that takes visitors on an immersive journey through Halong Bay, allowing them to explore the stunning scenery and learn about the geological and cultural significance of the area.
Interactive exhibits
The museum also has several interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages, including a simulated traditional market and a virtual reality game where visitors can experience life as local fishermen.
6. Yen Tu Mountain
About Yen Tu mountain
Yen Tu Mountain is a beautiful and historically significant mountain located in the northeastern part of Vietnam. The mountain stands at an elevation of 1,068 meters and is surrounded by lush forests, making it a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.
The mountain is also home to several historic temples and pagodas, many of which were built during the Tran dynasty in the 13th century. The most famous temple on the mountain is the Dong Pagoda, which sits at the peak of the mountain and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
On top of Yen Tu Mountain
The Yen Tu Mountain area is considered a sacred site for Vietnamese Buddhists and attracts many pilgrims each year. The mountain is also known for its connection to the founding of the Truc Lam Zen school of Buddhism in Vietnam, established by the famous monk, Tran Nhan Tong, in the 13th century.
Visitors to Yen Tu Mountain can hike along the scenic trails, visit the historic temples and pagodas, and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The mountain is a peaceful and spiritual destination, offering a unique glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural and religious history.
Activities on Yen Tu Mountain
Yen Tu Mountain offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and exploring historic temples to taking in stunning natural scenery. Here are some of the top activities to do on Yen Tu Mountain:
Hiking
Yen Tu Mountain has many hiking trails that wind through the lush forests and up to the historic temples and pagodas on the mountain. The trails range in difficulty, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visiting historic temples and pagodas
Yen Tu Mountain is home to several historic temples and pagodas, many of which date back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore these beautiful buildings, learn about their history and significance, and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Giant Buddha statue on Yen Tu mountain
Enjoying the natural scenery
Yen Tu Mountain is surrounded by beautiful forests, and visitors can take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the mountaintop. The area is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Learning about Buddhism
Yen Tu Mountain is an important site for Vietnamese Buddhism, and visitors can learn about the history and teachings of this ancient religion through the many temples and pagodas on the mountain.
7. Cua Van Fishing Village
About Cua Van fishing village
Cua Van fishing village is a charming and picturesque fishing village located in the heart of Halong Bay, Vietnam. The village is built on stilts over the water, giving it a unique and fascinating appearance.
The village is home to around 700 residents, most of whom are involved in fishing and aquaculture. Visitors to Cua Van Fishing Village can learn about the traditional fishing methods used by the villagers, and even take a ride on one of the colorful fishing boats that line the water.
Cua Van fishing village
The village is also known for its beautiful scenery, with stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs and clear blue waters. Visitors can take a boat tour of the village and the surrounding area, taking in the beautiful landscape and learning about the local way of life.
In addition to fishing, the villagers also engage in a range of other activities, such as farming and crafting. Visitors to Cua Van Fishing Village can sample the local cuisine, which includes a range of fresh seafood dishes and purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs from the village's artisans.
Things to do in Cua Van fishing village
Cua Van Fishing Village offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in the village:
Learn about traditional fishing
Fishing is the main occupation of the villagers in Cua Van Fishing Village, and visitors can learn about the traditional fishing methods used by the locals. They can even try their hand at fishing and see if they can catch a fish for dinner.
Explore the village
Visitors can take a stroll through the village and admire the unique architecture of the stilt houses built over the water. They can also visit the local school and learn about the education system in the village.
Daily life in Cua Van fishing village
Sample local cuisine
The villagers in Cua Van Fishing Village are known for their delicious seafood dishes, which are made using fresh catch from the bay. Visitors can sample a variety of seafood dishes at local restaurants and enjoy the unique flavors of the region.
Purchase handmade souvenirs
The villagers in Cua Van Fishing Village are also skilled artisans, and visitors can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs from the local shops. These make great gifts and are a unique reminder of the village's traditional way of life.
8. Sun World Halong Park
About Sun World Halong Park
Sun World Halong Park is a popular amusement park located in Halong City, Vietnam. The park covers an area of over 214 hectares and features a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Queen Cable Car, which offers stunning views of Halong Bay and the surrounding landscape. The cable car takes visitors from the base of the park up to the top of Ba Deo Hill, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the city.
Sun World Halong Park
The park also features a range of thrilling rides and attractions, such as the Dragon Swing, the Sun Wheel, and the Rhinoceros and Hippopotamus water ride. These attractions are perfect for adrenaline junkies and families with kids looking for a fun day out.
Things to do in Sun World Halong Park
Sun World Halong Park is a vast amusement park in Halong City, Vietnam, featuring a wide range of attractions and entertainment options. Here are some of the top attractions to see and experience in the park:
Queen Cable Car
The Queen Cable Car is the main attraction of the park, taking visitors from the base of the park up to the top of Ba Deo Hill. The ride offers breathtaking views of Halong Bay and the surrounding landscape.
Dragon Swing
The Dragon Swing is a thrilling ride that swings passengers high up in the air. It is a popular attraction among adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers.
Dragon Swing in Sun World Halong Park
Sun Wheel
The Sun Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of Halong City and the surrounding area.
Rhinoceros and Hippopotamus
This water ride is a fun and refreshing way to cool off on a hot day. Visitors ride on a raft through a jungle landscape, encountering obstacles and water features along the way.
Live entertainment
Sun World Halong Park features a variety of live entertainment options, including music and dance performances, cultural activities, and more.
Final words
Halong City in Vietnam is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural wonders, and exciting attractions. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Halong City is a destination you won't want to miss. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to one of Vietnam's most stunning and diverse destinations.
Thank you for reading our top 8 Must-Visit places in Halong city. We hope it has provided you with helpful ideas for your special occasion. To discover more about tourism in Vietnam, please feel free to explore our blogs here.
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