Halong city - Best things to do & travel guide

About Halong City

Located in the breathtaking Quang Ninh Province, approximately 160 km from Hanoi, Halong City continues to gain popularity among travelers eager for authentic cultural experiences. Following a stunning cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture of Halong City, where they can engage with its rich customs and traditions.

This charming destination boasts bustling markets, lively seafood restaurants, and a diverse cultural environment. Guests can explore numerous historical and cultural landmarks, including museums, churches, and intriguing entertainment venues. With significant improvements in accommodations, services, and transportation, Halong City ensures a delightful travel experience for all.

Experience the enchanting essence of Halong City, where every moment contributes to a memorable journey.

Best Things to See

Sun World Halong Complex

Situated in the heart of Halong City, the expansive Sun World Halong encompasses approximately 214 hectares and serves as a premier entertainment destination for visitors of all ages. This remarkable theme park is one of Vietnam's top amusement centers, featuring a range of thrilling rides and leisure activities.

The complex is divided into three captivating zones, each offering unique experiences:

• Dragon Park: A thrilling area featuring 30 exciting rides with intriguing names like Mysterious Search, Pirate Ship, and Furious Rhino. Families with younger children can enjoy gentler attractions such as The Spinning Cups and the Halong Railway.
• Water Park: As the name suggests, this area is dedicated to thrilling water adventures suitable for everyone. Recommended attractions include The Miraculous Island Kingdom, Non-stop Tornado, and Turbulence Rapids.
• Queen Cable Cars & Sun Hills: This section features more relaxing activities, designed for family enjoyment. The cable car systems and breathtaking views invite visitors to unwind and take in the stunning scenery over Halong.

Bai Tho Mountain

At a height of 200 meters, Bai Tho Mountain provides an enjoyable hiking experience, rewarding climbers with sweeping views of Halong Bay from its summit. The trek is enhanced by lush greenery, unique rock formations, and the soothing sounds of nature.

Having remained closed to ensure public safety since 2017, Bai Tho Mountain is expected to reopen in 2025, promising unforgettable experiences for eager trekkers.

Travel tips:

• Check the weather forecast before your hike to avoid rain, and dress comfortably.
• Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Plan your visit before 4:00 PM to ensure safety and maximize enjoyment.
• Pack snacks and ample water for your hike.
• Consider hiking in groups for enhanced safety.

Quang Ninh Museum

Artfully showcasing coal—the main mineral of Quang Ninh—within a unique architectural property, the Quang Ninh Museum illustrates not only the area’s vibrant culture and history but also represents the province's spirit and character. This museum comprises three floors, each offering distinct attractions.

The ground floor presents stunning artwork celebrating nature and the sea, while the second floor immerses visitors in prehistoric times with a remarkable collection of well-preserved artifacts. The journey concludes on the third floor, featuring valuable historical documents that highlight Quang Ninh's notable achievements.

Entrance fees:

• Adults: VND 60,000/person
• Students: VND 30,000/person
• Children: VND 15,000/person

Bai Chay Beach

Bai Chay Beach attracts thousands of visitors annually with its expansive white sandy shore meeting the clear waters. Renowned as one of Vietnam's best artificial beaches, this idyllic spot offers an ideal atmosphere for swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports. The vibrant surroundings provide excellent opportunities for savoring local seafood, exploring nearby accommodations, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Travel information:

• Nearby restaurants: Phuong Nam Restaurant, Linh Dan Restaurant, Thien Anh Restaurant, Hong Hanh 3 Restaurant, Cua Vang Restaurant.
• Nearby hotels: Muong Thanh Luxury Ha Long Centre Hotel, Premier Village Ha Long Bay Resort, Novotel Halong Bay, Starlight Hotel.

Long Tien Pagoda

Nestled at the base of Bai Tho Mountain, Long Tien Pagoda holds the title of Halong City's largest pagoda, featuring stunning architectural design and deep spiritual significance. Visitors to this sacred site can appreciate the unique designs inspired by the Nguyen Dynasty while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Travel information:

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Dress Code: Modest clothing is preferred; avoid tight-fitting attire and skirts.
• Essentials: Bring water, hats, and sunscreen for a pleasant visit.

Map of Things to See

Best Things to Do

Entertain at Sun World Halong Complex

For a day filled with excitement and unforgettable activities, Halong City offers thrilling experiences at the Sun World Halong Complex. As one of Vietnam's top entertainment hubs, it caters to guests of all ages looking for adventure or relaxation alike.

Address: 9 Ha Long, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City

Explore Local Cultures with Cultural and Religious Attractions

Beyond its stunning natural landscapes and thrilling entertainment venues, Halong City is known for its enriching culture and historical heritage. The city is home to various museums, such as the Quang Ninh Museum, where visitors can delve into the timeless beauty and cultural values of the region.

The area also showcases several revered spiritual sites, including Long Tien Pagoda and Loi Am Pagoda, offering peace and tranquility amid verdant surroundings.

Explore Bai Chay Old Quarter

A stroll through the Bai Chay Old Quarter provides an immersive glimpse into the lively atmosphere of Halong City. This charming area is filled with restaurants, hotels, cafes, and bars, ensuring an enjoyable visit. As visitors wander through, they will notice delightful architectural elements reminiscent of Hoi An and Hanoi, featuring iconic golden-yellow walls and historical structures.

Popular activities in this quarter include sightseeing, tasting local delicacies, relaxing at quaint cafes, and capturing stunning photographs against picturesque backdrops.

Shopping & Enjoy Local Delicacies at Seafood Markets

Visitors to Halong City should immerse themselves in the vibrant ambiance of its seafood markets, where they can enjoy a variety of delicious local dishes and shop for fresh seafood. This lively environment offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen and their families.

Notable seafood markets in Halong City include:

• Halong I Market: Bach Dang Street, Halong City
• Halong II Market: 433 Le Loi, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Halong City
• Cai Dam Market: Tien Ong, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City
• Hung Thang Market: Hung Thang, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City

What to Do at Night

Sightseeing at Bai Chay Bridge

While in Halong, be sure to experience the night views from Bai Chay Bridge. Although stunning during daylight, the bridge transforms into a colorful spectacle at night with its dazzling LED lights, creating a romantic ambiance enhanced by passing vehicle lights.

• With its elegant design, the bridge serves as an iconic symbol of Halong City, functioning as both a vital transportation link and a striking architectural feature.
• From the bridge, visitors can enjoy breathtaking nighttime views of the city and the bay, guaranteeing a memorable experience.

Explore Halong Night Market

Halong Night Market is a lively evening destination boasting a variety of colorful souvenir shops, irresistible street food, and vibrant lights. Simply strolling through the market allows visitors to experience the rich customs and culture of the city, creating a delightful evening adventure.

• Address: Hoang Quoc Viet, Hung Thang Ward, Halong City.
• Must-try street foods: seafood, “gat gu” cake, seafood vermicelli, Halong bubble yogurt, grilled squid rolls.

Marvel at Sparkling Bay Views from the Sun Wheel

The Sun Wheel Halong is an iconic attraction within the Halong Sun World complex that offers stunning panoramic views of the entire city and bay. Taking a ride on the Sun Wheel during the evening allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking cityscape illuminated by LED lights, presenting a striking sight.

Operating hours:

• Monday - Friday: 14:00 – 21:00
• Saturday - Sunday: 09:00 – 21:00

Relax at Bars & Nightclubs Along Bai Chay Beach

For those who prefer a more leisurely evening, enjoying the atmosphere at local cafes, bars, or nightclubs provides an excellent opportunity to unwind. Bai Chay Beach is dotted with inviting bars and nightclubs offering picturesque beach views and relaxed environments, ensuring a delightful night out.

• Highly recommended spots: Halong View Club, H Club, Valley Beach Club, Square Bar, Chill Beach Bar.

Where and What to Eat

Cha Muc (Squid Cake)

Cha muc is Halong City’s signature dish, recognized for its golden exterior and succulent, chewy texture bursting with flavor. Made from fresh ingredients, these squid cakes are expertly seasoned, delivering an exceptional taste. They are often served with rice or vermicelli, but are best enjoyed alongside lemon garlic chili sauce.

• Where to buy: DASAVINA Squid Cake, Thoan Squid Cake, Hien Nhung Squid Cake, Ong Ba Seafood, Phuc Squid Cake.

Sa Sung (Sipunculus Nudus)

Sa sung is a unique seafood delicacy from Halong City, known for its distinct texture and rich taste. These marine worms are high in nutrients and can be enjoyed raw, grilled, or fried, often served with various sauces including garlic and chili.

• Where to eat: Available in numerous restaurants and street food stalls throughout Halong City.

Ngan (Austriella Corrugata)

Ngan, a type of hard clam, is famous for its distinctive rich flavor. This versatile seafood can be prepared in many ways—grilled, steamed, stir-fried, or even made into soup. Ngan can also be brewed into Ngan Wine, showcasing its exceptional flavor. Though considered a delicacy due to its rarity, it is a must-try for a memorable culinary experience.

Sam (Horseshoe Crab)

Halong Bay provides an ideal environment for horseshoe crabs, called "sam." Dishes prepared with sam are exclusive to this region, ranging from crab salad with sweet and sour flavors to tender steamed crab meat paired with chili and lemongrass, alongside delectable crab meat served with noodles.

Hau (Oyster)

Oysters, abundant and flavorful, are another must-try dish in Halong City. Locals typically enjoy oysters grilled with onions and cheese, steamed with herbs or ginger, or served fresh with lemon, mustard, and chili sauce. The oysters from Halong are tender and provide a delicious and nutritious dining experience.

• Where to eat: Widely available throughout Halong City.

Highly-recommended Restaurants

Here’s a list of restaurants celebrated for their authentic local seafood and exceptional cuisine:

• Cua Vang Restaurant: 32 Phan Chu Trinh, Group 9, Area 9, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City
• Hong Hanh Restaurant: 442 Nguyen Van Cu, Group 3, Area 8, Hong Ha Ward, Halong City
• Thien Anh Restaurant: 11 Phan Boi Chau, Group 5, Area 9A, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City
• Sen A Dong Restaurant: 1 Ha Long, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City
• Huong Duyen Restaurant: 66 Tran Hung Dao, Cao Thang, Halong City

Where and What to Buy

Dried Seafood & Local Delicacies

As a coastal city, Halong presents a variety of seafood specialties that make ideal souvenirs. Notable items include squid cakes, dried "sa sung," and dried squid. Additionally, unique beverages such as Ba Kich wine and Yen Tu apricot wine offer a taste of the region.

• Where to buy: Cai Dam Market, Halong I Market, Halong II Market, Ong Ba Seafood, Dong Trieu Market.

Pearls

Pearl jewelry makes for a luxurious gift option, renowned for its striking beauty and intrinsic value. Halong pearls, being saltwater pearls, possess a unique allure that distinguishes them from freshwater varieties. Tourists frequently have the chance to visit pearl farms while cruising Halong Bay, where they can witness the meticulous cultivation process and admire these magnificent treasures.

• Where to buy: HaLong Pearl JSC

Seashell Jewelry

Seashell jewelry found throughout Halong City makes a charming and unique souvenir choice, featuring a variety of styles and colors. Visitors can find distinctive bracelets, keychains, necklaces, and earrings, allowing them to take a piece of Halong City home with them.

• Where to buy: Available at souvenir shops across Halong City.

Exclusive Handicrafts

Halong's markets are brimming with vibrant handicrafts made from various materials such as wood, coal, ceramics, and textiles. These unique items often showcase imagery of Halong, serving as perfect souvenirs that capture the city’s essence. Affordable and easily accessible, these gifts are ideal for friends and family.

• Where to buy: Available at souvenir shops throughout Halong City.

Suggested Itinerary

For an optimal Halong City experience, tourists should consider starting with a 2-night, 1-day or 3-night, 2-day cruise on Halong Bay, followed by a thoughtfully planned day tour that delves deeper into the city’s highlights. This combination allows for an enriching experience of the region’s stunning scenery and cultural heritage.

Here is a suggested itinerary for a day tour in Halong City:

Morning

- Check in and visit Quang Ninh Museum (approximately 1 hour).

- Choose one of the following options:

• Visit Long Tien Pagoda (approximately 1 hour).
• Visit Hon Gai Church (approximately 1 hour).

- Lunch: Relish renowned local seafood dishes such as squid cake, “sa sung,” “sam,” and oysters.

Afternoon

- Choose one of the following options:

• Enjoy exciting attractions at Sun World Halong Complex (approximately 2 hours).
• Relax at Bai Chay Beach with swimming and sunbathing (approximately 2 hours).

- Stroll through Bai Chay Old Quarter: take photos, explore the area, or unwind at a local cafe (approximately 1 hour).

Evening

- Dinner: savor delightful local dishes at restaurants along Bai Chay Street.

- Choose one of the following options:

• Browse and shop at Halong Night Market (approximately 1 hour).
• Relax at a local café/bar/nightclub along Bai Chay Beach (approximately 1 hour).

This day tour of Halong City typically lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on visitors' preferences and agendas.