WhereWeGo
Representative view of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Coast
🇻🇳 Vietnam · Southeast Asia

Ha Long Bay

Thousands of limestone karst islands, usually seen on an overnight boat.

Budget level
Affordable
Best months
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Ideal stay
1–2 days
Best for
Nature, Romance, Adventure

Overview

A vast karst seascape northeast of Hanoi. Most visitors take a one- or two-night cruise; neighbouring Lan Ha Bay is a quieter alternative.

Plan & book

Stays, activities and transport for Ha Long Bay will be bookable here soon.

Where to stayComing soon

Curated stays by area and budget will appear here once hotel partners are connected.

Tours & activitiesComing soon

Bookable experiences will appear here once activity partners are connected.

Car rentalComing soon

Rental pickup options will appear here once car partners are connected.

Why go to Ha Long Bay

  • Overnight cruises through the karst islands
  • Kayaking and cave visits
  • Easy add-on from Hanoi

Budget

Ha Long Bay is affordable by Vietnam standards. Across Vietnam, mid-range travellers typically spend about $55–$90 per person per day.

Country-level planning estimate, excluding flights. See the full Vietnam budget breakdown.

Practical information

  • Cruises can be cancelled in storm conditions — leave buffer days

When to go to Ha Long Bay

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan 1–2 days here. Highlighted months are the best fit for most travellers.

Getting around

  • Cheap domestic flights make the long north–south axis practical on a two-week trip
  • The north–south railway is slow but scenic, with sleeper services between the main cities

Suggested itineraries

  • North to south classic

    15 days

    Hanoi, karst country, the central coast and the delta.

    Route: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hội An & Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City

  • Northern Vietnam

    9 days

    Capital, karst valleys and the far-north mountains.

    Route: Hanoi → Ninh Bình → Sapa & Ha Giang

Vietnam guides