Overview of Quang Ninh province

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. 

Location of province Quang Ninh on Vietnam map

The North of Quang Ninh borders China, the West borders the provinces of Lang Son, Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, the South borders Hai Phong 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. 

Notable destinations in Quang Ninh

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is the most famous tourist symbol of Quang Ninh province and the whole of Vietnam. In 1994, this place was recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site thanks to the majestic beauty of thousands of limestone islands rising in the middle of clear blue water. Each island has a unique shape, associated with folk legends. Tourists coming here often experience sunrise cruises, kayak to explore Sung Sot cave, Thien Cung cave or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in the middle of the sea.

Quang Ninh Museum

Quang Ninh Museum

Quang Ninh Museum is located on the shore of Ha Long Bay, standing out with modern architecture in the shape of a glossy black cube symbolizing coal - the "black gold" of the mining land. The interior space is displayed on themes from nature, history to culture, helping visitors better understand the formation and development process of Quang Ninh. This is not only a place to learn and explore, but also a favorite "check-in" spot for young people thanks to its unique design and beautiful view of the bay.

Yen Tu relics and scenic spots

Yen Tu tourist area

Yen Tu tourist area is a famous Buddhist center in Vietnam. With majestic mountain terrain, Yen Tu offers a spiritual journey through a system of ancient pagodas and towers such as Hoa Yen pagoda, Dong pagoda, Tra am and thousands of green stone steps leading to the top of the mountain nearly 1,000 m high. Every year, Yen Tu festival takes place from January to March of the lunar calendar, attracting tens of thousands of tourists to make pilgrimages, worship and enjoy the majestic sky and clouds.

Co To Island

Co To Island

Co To Island is an island paradise located off the coast of Van Don special region, famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise sea water and crystal-fine white sand. Tourists coming to Co To often swim at Hong Van and Van Chay, watch the sunrise at Co To lighthouse or explore Co To island with its clear water. In addition, fresh seafood dishes such as sea worms, squid, and steamed shrimp are also unforgettable culinary highlights. Co To today is considered the "Maldives of Northern Vietnam".

Cua Ong Temple Historical Site

Cua Ong Temple

Cua Ong Temple is in Cam Pha ward, located on a high hill overlooking Bai Tu Long Bay. The sacred temple worships Hung Nhuong Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tang - son of famous general Tran Hung Dao, and the Tran Dynasty generals who were instrumental in guarding the Northeast region. The temple complex includes Upper, Middle, and Lower temples in harmony with nature and the scenery of sea and sky. Every year, the Cua Ong Temple festival (the second lunar month) attracts a large number of people and tourists from all over to offer incense to commemorate.

Mong Cai & Tra Co

Sa Vi Cape

Mong Cai is a border area located in the far Northeast of Vietnam, bordering China. This is not only an international trade center but also an attractive tourist destination with many beautiful beaches. The most prominent is Tra Co, known as "the most lyrical beach in Vietnam" with a coastline of more than 17 km, fine sand, calm waves and poetic landscape. Visitors can combine swimming, visiting Tra Co church, Mong Cai border market and enjoying fresh seafood in fresh, peaceful air.

Below are suggestions for other attractions in Quang Ninh in addition to the 6 outstanding places mentioned above:

• Quan Lan Island – Minh Chau: Pristine island in Van Don special zone, famous for its fine white sand and clear blue water.

• Poem Mountain: The mountain located in the center of Ha Long, is a beautiful panoramic view of the bay.

• Bai Tu Long Bay: A pristine bay adjacent to Ha Long, attracting tourists with its peaceful beauty and few people.

• Ba Vang Pagoda: Large and sacred pagoda in Uong Bi, with majestic architecture and pure landscape.

• Tran Hung Dao Temple: Historical site on the Bach Dang River, worshiping Saint Tran and associated with the glorious victory in 1288.

• Vung Duc relic area: Natural cave complex and martyrs' monument with historical and landscape value.

• Sun World Ha Long Complex: Modern entertainment complex with Dragon park, Queen cable car and Sun wheel.

• Tuan Chau Peninsula: Vibrant beach resort with beautiful beaches, water music area and luxury marina.

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 in 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 dew, making the landscape hazy, suitable for pilgrimages to Yen Tu or visiting historical relics. 

Travel information

Flight routes to Quang Ninh

Van Don Airport

• TP. Ho Chi Minh (SGN) – Van Don (VDO)

  • Departure airport: Tan Son Nhat

  • Flight time (estimated): 2 hours 10 minutes

  • There are currently many operators such as Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietravel Airlines with a frequency of 1–2 flights/day.

• Da Nang (DAD) – Van Don (VDO)

  • Departure airport: Da Nang International

  • Flight time (estimated): 1 hour 40 minutes

  • Suitable for tourists in the Central region who want to connect their journey to visit Ha Long Bay, Co To and Yen Tu.

• Can Tho (VCA) – Van Don (VDO)

  • Departure airport: Can Tho International

  • Flight time (estimated): 2 hours 15 minutes

  • Direct flights connect the Mekong Delta with the Northeast, helping to save travel time.

Train to Quang Ninh

• Hanoi – Ha Long

  • Departure station: Yen Vien Station (Hanoi)

  • Travel time (estimated): 5 – 6 hours

  • Yen Vien - Ha Long train route is the ideal choice for tourists who love sightseeing along the journey through Bac Ninh, Uong Bi, Cam Pha.

• Hai Phong – Ha Long

  • Departure Station: Hai Phong Station

  • Travel time (estimated): 3 hours

  • The train travels through many beautiful landscapes in the Northeast coastal region, convenient for a combined journey between two major port cities.

Passenger bus to Quang Ninh

• Hanoi – Ha Long

  • Departure station: My Dinh bus station, Nuoc Ngam, Gia Lam

  • Travel time (estimated): 2 - 2.5 hours (according to Hanoi - Hai Phong - Ha Long highway)

  • Many high-quality car brands such as Phuc Xuyen, Hoang Cong, Kumho Viet Thanh, Van Don Xanh Limousine operate continuously throughout the day.

• Hai Phong – Ha Long

  • Departure station: Niem Nghia bus station, Cau Rao

  • Travel time (estimated): 1 – 1.5 hours

  • Short route, suitable for tourists traveling between two Northern tourist centers.

• TP. Ho Chi Minh – Ha Long

  • Departure station: Mien Dong Bus Station

  • Travel time (estimated): 35 – 38 hours

  • Mainly serving the journey across Vietnam, however tourists often choose to fly directly to Van Don airport to save time.

Moving within Quang Ninh province

To travel within the province and between tourist areas such as Ha Long - Cam Pha - Uong Bi - Mong Cai - Co To, tourists can choose:

• Taxis and technology vehicles: There are many popular companies such as Mai Linh, Xanh SM, Phuc Xuyen Taxi, Grab and car booking services via online applications.

• Intra-province buses: Bus routes Ha Long - Uong Bi, Ha Long - Cam Pha, Ha Long - Mong Cai operate continuously from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day, convenient and economical.

• Renting motorbikes and self-driving cars:

  • Ha Long Motorbike Rental – 8 Ha Long, Bai Chay | ☎ 0905 789 123 | Price from 150,000 - 250,000 VND/day

  • Phuc Xuyen Car Service – 36 Cao Thang, Ha Long | ☎ 0912 334 556 | Car 4–7 seats from 700,000 – 1,000,000 VND/day

  • Van Don Travel – Cai Rong, Van Don | ☎ 0966 889 505 | Car rental and train tickets to Co To island.

• Speedboat & ferry: From Tuan Chau port or Cai Rong port, visitors can take a speedboat to Co To, Quan Lan, Ngoc Vung with a time of 60 - 90 minutes depending on location.

Accommodation information

Luxury

Wyndham Legend Halong

• No. 12 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward - price from 1,500,000 VND/night

Wyndham Legend Halong Hotel

Wyndham Legend Halong is an outstanding 5-star hotel with a prime location on the shores 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 travel to famous tourist destinations such as Sun World Ha Long and Queen Cable Car.

Royal Lotus Hotel Halong

• No. A13, Dong Hung Thang urban area, Bai Chay ward - price from 1,000,000 VND/night

Royal Lotus Hotel Halong is a modern 4-star hotel, located near the bay and just a few minutes' drive from Sun World Ha Long. The hotel has more than 150 elegantly designed and comfortable rooms with views of the bay or city center. Guests can relax at the indoor swimming pool, enjoy professional spa services, or enjoy Asian and European dishes at Hana Restaurant. In addition, the Sky Bar on the rooftop is an ideal place to watch the Ha Long sunset and enjoy cocktails.

Resort

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

• Reu Island, Bai Chay ward - price from 2,200,000 VND/night

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.

FLC Halong Bay Golf Club & Luxury Resort

• Nguyen Van Cu Street, Ha Long Ward - price from 2,000,000 VND/night

FLC Halong Bay Golf Club & Luxury Resort is a 5-star resort located on a high hill, offering beautiful panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. The resort impresses with its modern design with sophisticated Asian touches, including luxury hotels, ocean-view villas, and an 18-hole golf course of international standards. Guests can enjoy an outdoor infinity pool, a luxury spa, a modern gym, and a multi-style restaurant system serving Asian and European cuisine.

Other experiences

The Bay Homestay

• No. 2 Mac Dinh Chi, Bai Chay Ward – price from 300,000 VND/night

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 day of wandering.

Ha Long Lily Homestay

• No. 30 Hoang Thi Hong Chiem Street, Ha Long Ward – price from 700,000 VND/night

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.

Ha Long Cruise

The resort experience on a Ha Long cruise is a unique journey, where visitors can both enjoy a luxurious space and immerse themselves in the beauty of the world's natural wonders. While floating among the turquoise water and towering limestone mountains, you can enjoy the brilliant sunset or gentle sunrise on the bay.

Ha Long Cruise

Here are some famous and popular cruise ships in Ha Long Bay, suitable for both short vacations and luxury cruises:

• Paradise Elegance Cruise – A modern 5-star cruise, featuring sophisticated design, rooms with private balconies and international standard culinary services.

• Scarlet Pearl Cruise – The most luxurious cruise ship on Lan Ha Bay, famous for its European design style and rooms with bathtubs facing the sea.

• Orchid Cruise – Combining sophistication and privacy, this cruise is often chosen for couples or luxury vacations.

In addition, if you want more options for your vacation in Ha Long, here are a few other accommodation suggestions worth considering - suitable for many different styles and budgets:

• Paradise Suites Hotel – Tuan Chau Ward

• Premier Village Ha Long Bay Resort – Ha Long Road, Bai Chay Ward

• Ha Long Essence Hotel – No. 433 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward

• Novotel Ha Long Hotel – No. 160 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward

• La Batisse Halong Resort – Hung Thang Urban Area, Bai Chay Ward

• Beverly Hills Ha Long Villa & Resort – Ha Long Road, Ha Long Ward

Local festival cuisine and culture

Famous restaurants

Cua Vang Restaurant: 32 Phan Chu Trinh, Bai Chay Ward

Cua Vang Restaurant

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

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).

Local cuisine

• Squid spring rolls at Cay Bang Root - Alley 1, Nha Hat Street, Le Thanh Tong Street, Hong Gai Ward: Coming to Quang Ninh, everyone should definitely try the famous squid spring rolls at Goc Cay Bang - a familiar address of Ha Long people, famous for its crowds in the morning. 
• Quang Phong squid rolls - Kiot C112A, Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward: Prestigious brand of hand-pounded squid rolls, suitable for eating on the spot or buying to take home as gifts; There are stores with clear addresses and contact information.

Cuisine discovery experience

• Nodding Snails - 75 Gieng Don, Food Street: The "nodding" snail restaurant is famous for its variety of snails: jackfruit snails cooked with tamarind, snails stir-fried with salted egg, grilled snails... The restaurant is located in Gieng Don Food Street, considered by many people to be "a familiar snail restaurant of Ha Ha youth." Long”.
• Ha Long Clay Pot Rice Restaurant - 160 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward: A rustic restaurant serving clay pot rice and family dishes, mentioned by many Ha Long travel sites.

In addition to the restaurants mentioned above, people can refer to some other famous restaurants such as:

• Hong Hanh 3 – 50 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward
• Sam Ba Ty – Lane 6 (sometimes Lane 7D) Cao Thang Street, Hon Gai Ward
• Bún Cu Ky Huong Beo Restaurant – 20 Tan Mai, Bai Chay

Experience Quang Ninh culture

Yen Tu Festival: The festival opened on January 10 and lasted for three months in the spring, 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.

Yen Tu Festival

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.

Some other cultural experiences in Quang Ninh:

• Fairy Cong Festival – takes place on the 7th day of the first lunar month.

• Then Singing - The Tinh instrument of the Tay people - performed during spring festivals.

• Binh Lieu Love Market - held at the beginning of the lunar new year.

• Bach Dang Festival – takes place on the 8th day of the third lunar month.

• Cua Ong Temple Festival – opens on the 2nd day of the 2nd lunar month.

• Experience Cua Van fishing village - Ha Long Bay, operating all year round, especially vibrant in the spring - summer tourist season.

Play area

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.

Dragon Park

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 of 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.

Amusement 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 shows, 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 1m free.

• Ticket to Tuan Chau island (excursion does not include shows and games): about 280,000 VND/person.

Some other amusement parks in Quang Ninh

• Typhoon Water Park - part of Sun World Ha Long Complex, with more than 12 modern water games.

• Queen Cable Car & Mysterious Hill, experience panoramic views of the bay and visit the Japanese garden.

• Sun Marina Plaza entertainment complex, shopping - dining - check-in area next to the luxury marina.

• Co To Park island tourist area, sea game area, kayaking, jet skiing and beach team building.

Suggested tours

Experience tour

Tour Quang Ninh – Ha Long – Yen Tu 3 days 2 nights

• Itinerary: Hanoi - Ha Long (visit Ha Long Bay: Sung Sot cave, Dau Go cave, Ti Top island...) - Yen Tu - Hanoi

• Transportation: Car + yacht

• Reference tour price: 2,975,000 VND

• Organizer: LEAD Travel

Quang Ninh package tour – Galatravel

• Itinerary: Ha Long - Yen Tu - Quang Hanh mineral bath - Tuan Chau island

• Transportation: Car + train

• Reference tour price: Contact for latest price

• Organizer: Galatravel

Adventure tour

1-day tour to explore Ha Long Bay

• Itinerary: Quang Ninh – Ha Long Bay (visit caves, kayak, swim)

• Transportation: Train + car

• Reference tour price: 1,050,000 VND

• Organizer: Vietgoing Travel

2-day tour – Co To immersed in the sea and islands

• Itinerary: Hanoi - Van Don - Co To (swim the beach, explore the island, watch the sunset and sunrise)

• Transportation: Car + high-speed train

• Reference tour price: 2,550,000 VND

• Organizer: Kavo Travel

Family tour

Ha Long Tour – Sun World Park 3 days 2 nights

• Itinerary: Hanoi – Ha Long – Sun World Ha Long Park – Ha Long Bay – Hanoi

• Transportation: Car + train + cable car

• Reference tour price: Contact for detailed price

• Organizer: Antamtour

Quang Ninh tour 3 days 2 nights cheap package

• Itinerary: Ha Long – Bai Chay – cave – Sun World – Tuan Chau island

• Transportation: Car + train + yacht

• Reference tour price: From 1,900,000 VND

• Organizer: Vetautham Ha Long Bay

Ecotourism

Cai Chien Island Tour - Quang Ninh ecological resort

• Itinerary: Quang Ninh – Cai Chien (swimming, exploring casuarina forest, experiencing local life)

• Transportation: Car + boat / small boat

• Reference tour price: Contact for specific price

• Organizer: Galatravel

Shopping and Souvenirs

Brocade scarf

Quang Ninh is not only famous for its wonderful nature such as Ha Long Bay and clear blue sea and islands, but also has many specialties and unique souvenirs for you to choose as gifts when traveling. Here are some suggestions:

Handicraft gifts & souvenirs

• Articles made from seashells, snails, coral, pearls: such as necklaces, bracelets, pendants made from shells or pearls exploited in Quang Ninh waters.

• 24K gold-plated items or souvenirs: have sparkling designs, often sold at souvenir shops in tourist areas or night markets.

• Gold-plated "Hon Trong Mai" painting: a typical symbolic gift of Ha Long and Quang Ninh.

• Brocade items: from mountainous ethnic groups, sold in handicraft shops or at cultural tourist areas.

Support and other information

Quang Ninh Provincial Police

• Address: Group 6, Area 9B, Bai Chay Ward, Quang Ninh

• Emergency number: 113

• Phone: 0692 808 100

 Quang Ninh Department of Tourism

• Address: 7th Floor, Inter-Agency Headquarters No. 2, Ha Long Ward, Quang Ninh

• Phone: 0913 265 009

Market Regulation Department (Consumer Protection)

• Address: Group 66, Area 6, Viet Hung Ward, Quang Ninh

• Phone: 0203 382 6488

With a unique blend of world natural heritage, cultural - spiritual depth and modern, dynamic lifestyle, Quang Ninh deserves to be one of the top destinations in Vietnam, promising to bring visitors diverse and memorable experiences.