1. Quang Ninh Tourism Overview – Leading Island and Sea Destination in the North
1.1. Geographical Location
Quang Ninh, a land at the northeastern frontier, bordering China to the north and the Bac Bo Gulf to the south, is an unmissable destination for nature lovers. With its prime location, only about 150km from Hanoi, Quang Ninh easily welcomes visitors for both short and long trips.
Prime geographical location attracts many tourists (Source: Collected photos)
This place boasts a coastline of over 250km, winding around hundreds of large and small islands. Among them are Ha Long Bay - a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, the mystical Bai Tu Long Bay, or the pristine Co To and Quan Lan islands. The blend of sea, mountains, and historical and cultural relics has made Quang Ninh a top comprehensive destination in the North, offering visitors unforgettable experiences.
1.2. Modern infrastructure, gathering all types of transportation:
In recent years, Quang Ninh has invested heavily in transportation infrastructure, making it easier and faster for tourists to travel.
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Van Don International Airport: As the first private airport in Vietnam, Van Don International Airport holds a strategic trading position in the northern region and meets the 4E standard of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The airport is equipped with modern infrastructure, including a 3.6 km long, 45 m wide runway, capable of accommodating advanced aircraft like the Boeing 787. This project not only provides a development boost for Van Don island district but also contributes to attracting investment and promoting the economy and tourism of the entire Quang Ninh province.
Van Don International Airport with modern facilities (Source: Collected photos)
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Ha Long – Van Don and Van Don – Mong Cai Expressways: The expressway has a total length of 80.23 km, designed with a maximum speed of 120 km/h - the highest for expressways in Viet Nam. Upon operation, the route has shortened the travel time from Ha Noi to Mong Cai to just over 3 hours. This expressway connects synchronously with the Van Don - Ha Long - Hai Phong - Ha Noi - Lao Cai route, forming the longest expressway network in the country. Thanks to this, Quang Ninh has become the province with the most kilometers of expressway in Viet Nam, with a total of 176 km.
The highway stretches endlessly, wide and convenient for travel (Source: Collected photos)
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Ha Long International Passenger Port: Located right in the center of Bai Chay, near the Sun World Halong entertainment complex, Ha Long International Passenger Port is a special-class port and also the first specialized international tourist passenger port in Vietnam. The port consists of two functional areas: an international area for large ships and luxury yachts, and an domestic area serving sightseeing trips. The space here harmoniously combines unique architecture and modern facilities, offering visitors a complete experience from culture, cuisine to high-class shopping right while waiting to buy tickets or depart for their journey.
1.3. Province owning the natural world wonder Ha Long Bay
Located in the Northeast region of Vietnam, in Quang Ninh province and about 165 km from the capital Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous landscapes in the world. The bay has an area of 1,553 km² with 1,969 large and small islands, of which 980 islands have been named. The World Heritage area recognized by UNESCO alone has an area of 434 km², including 775 islands, of which 411 islands have official names.
Ha Long Bay - the most famous scenic spot (Source: Collected photos)
The uniqueness of Ha Long Bay lies in the dense concentration of limestone islands and a system of magical caves, pristine beaches, and impressive natural rock formations such as Kissing Rocks (Hon Trong Mai), Stone Dog Islet (Hon Cho Da), and Incense Burner Peak (Dinh Lu Huong). It is also a place that preserves precious geological and geomorphological values, a testament to the hundreds of millions of years of Earth's formation and development. Not only is it a rare 'open-air geological museum', Ha Long Bay is also an ideal destination for tourists to experience cruising, kayaking, watching the sunset over the bay, or enjoying fresh seafood amidst the majestic sea and island space.
1.4. Precious hot mineral spring source
Located in Cam Pha city, Quang Hanh hot spring is one of the rare and precious mineral sources in Vietnam, with an average temperature of 60-70°C. The mineral water here contains many minerals beneficial for health, especially useful for relaxation, therapy, and body recovery.
Relaxing at Quang Hanh hot springs is an ideal activity (Source: Collected photos)
In Quang Ninh, a particularly prominent destination is Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh – the first Japanese-style hot spring resort in Vietnam, invested and developed by Sun Group in Cam Pha city. The name “Yoko” (Sunshine) evokes abundant energy and a symbol of good fortune from the sun, carrying a message of vitality, warmth, and peace that this place brings.
Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh bathed in sunlight amidst majestic mountains (Source: Collected photos)
Nestled amidst majestic mountain cliffs, located by the sea and surrounded by a poetic natural landscape, Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh possesses a rare prime location, converging all the elements to become an ideal hot spring resort.
The highlight of Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh also lies in its space design imbued with ancient Japanese architectural style, harmoniously combined with the natural landscape. The resort integrates accommodation, mineral baths, therapy areas, dining, and high-class entertainment services, all operated under the supervision of Japanese experts and a Japanese Director, ensuring a complete and refined 'Japanese standard' experience for visitors.
1.5. Possessing vibrant border gates
Quang Ninh currently has 3 border gate economic zones with a total area of over 144 hectares, including Mong Cai, Hoanh Mo - Dong Van, and Bac Phong Sinh. Among them, Mong Cai border gate economic zone is one of the largest border economic zones in the country, identified as a dynamic, national key area.
Mong Cai International Border Gate is already famous for import and export (Source: Collected photos)
Taking full advantage of this advantage, the Mong Cai Border Gate Economic Zone has attracted over 120 projects with a total capital of nearly 2 billion USD and 24,000 billion VND. This is also the economic zone contributing the largest budget to the province, with total state budget revenue estimated for the whole year reaching over 5,000 billion VND (2024). Not only a "hotspot" for trade, Mong Cai is also an important gateway for international tourists, especially for cross-border tours between Vietnam and China, contributing to promoting both the economy and tourism of Quang Ninh province.
2. Ideal time to travel to Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh is a destination that can be explored in four seasons, with each time of the year bringing its own beauty and charm.
In spring, the weather is cool and the air is fresh, making it an ideal occasion for tourists to welcome spring, visit pagodas, attend traditional festivals, and enjoy the tranquility of the heritage region.
In summer, the blue sea - white sand - brilliant yellow sun has turned Quang Ninh into a "paradise" for island resort trips, yachting to admire the bay, kayaking, or snorkeling.
Cruise ships are a preferred means of vacation for many tourists (Source: Collected photos)<\/em> <\/p>
In autumn, the weather is mild and dry, with gentle sunlight spreading golden over the islands and bays, making it very suitable for relaxing vacation trips, sightseeing, and photography. <\/p>
When winter comes, Quang Ninh offers a different experience with hot springs like Quang Hanh, camping activities amidst forests and mountains, mountain climbing, or exploring the pristine beauty of deserted islands. No matter when you visit, Quang Ninh always knows how to please tourists with its scenery, experiences, and unforgettable moments. <\/p>
3. Getting to Quang Ninh and Getting Around the Province <\/h2>
3.1. Traveling from Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Northern Provinces <\/h3>
Traveling from Hanoi to Quang Ninh: Diverse options to suit every need<\/p>
From Hanoi to Quang Ninh (Ha Long City), tourists can choose many routes with a distance ranging from 155 to 170 km depending on the route passing through Bac Ninh and Hai Phong. Travel time usually takes about 3.5 to 4 hours by car or coach. However, with the appearance of the Ha Long - Hai Phong expressway, the journey has been significantly shortened, taking only 1.5 - 2 hours from Hai Phong to Ha Long. <\/p>
The route is surrounded by rolling mountains (Source: Collected photo)
Passenger bus: Popular and economical, departing from My Dinh, Gia Lam, or Luong Yen bus stations, stopping at Bai Chay bus station with ticket prices from 100,000 - 200,000 VND, travel time from 2.5 - 4 hours. This is a suitable option for those who want to experience local culture.
Tourist bus: Departing from Kim Ma bus station, this route runs continuously with a frequency of 15 minutes per trip, travel time is about 3 - 4 hours, suitable for small groups or international tourists.
Motorcycle: With a route length of 155 - 160 km and travel time of about 4 - 5 hours, this is an adventurous but suitable option for those passionate about exploration and backpacking.
Private car or rental car: Helps tourists be more flexible in terms of time and personal space, rental prices range from 1.5 - 2.5 million VND depending on the type of car and number of people, travel time from 3 - 4 hours
Yen Vien - Pha Lai - Ha Long - Cai Lan Railway Project: A New Future for Quang Ninh's Transportation
The Yen Vien - Pha Lai - Ha Long - Cai Lan railway project has been "dormant" for many years due to issues with planning and capital. Initiated in 2004, the project was approved with the goal of transporting goods from the Yunnan region (China) to Cai Lan port, spanning 131 km with a total investment of over 7,600 billion VND. However, in 2011, due to policies to cut public investment, the project was temporarily postponed, leaving great expectations for future regional connectivity development.
Railway project connecting many locations is being restarted (Source: Collected photos)
Recently, the Ministry of Construction has restarted the project with a new orientation: shifting focus to passenger transport, to meet the increasing demand in Quang Ninh - projected to reach 7-8 million passenger trips per year by 2050. Total estimated investment is nearly 10,000 billion VND, expected to be completed and put into operation by 2031, promising to create a turning point for transportation in the Northern region
3.2. Moving from the Central and Southern regions to Quang Ninh
From the Central and Southern provinces, tourists can fly directly from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Phu Quoc... to Van Don International Airport (Quang Ninh) or Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong). From here, travel by car on the most modern and convenient highway system in Vietnam to reach the center of Ha Long city, taking only about under 30 minutes.
Various means of transport for tourists to travel to Quang Ninh (Source: Collected photos)
If departing from Ho Chi Minh City, there are two main modes of transport to Ha Long:
Car: The distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long is about 1,721 km, taking about 33 hours of travel via National Highway 14, National Highway 1A, passing through the Tay Nguyen, Bac Trung Bo, and Dong Bac Bo provinces.
Airplane: The flight route from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don International Airport is operated by all domestic airlines with a flight time of about 2 hours and 5 minutes. This is a quick, convenient, and time-saving option to start your Quang Ninh trip.
Where to stay when traveling to Quang Ninh?
4.1. Oakwood Ha Long
Oakwood Ha Long is a top choice for tourists who want to enjoy a modern, comfortable resort space with a poetic view of Ha Long Bay. The hotel boasts a luxurious design, professional service, and a diverse room system suitable for both business and leisure travelers.
Oakwood Ha Long owns modern, high-class resort facilities (Source: Collected photos)
4.2. Muong Thanh Hotel
Muong Thanh Hotel is located right in the city center, extremely convenient to travel (Source: Collected photos)
Muong Thanh Luxury Quang Ninh Hotel is located right in the center of Bai Chay tourist area, Ha Long city, offering a beautiful panoramic view of the picturesque landscape of the bay. With a total of 508 rooms designed delicately and modernly, the hotel is like an architectural masterpiece blending with the majestic natural watercolor painting surrounding it.
Muong Thanh Hotel has a large area and number of rooms catering to the needs of diverse travelers (Source: Collected Photos)
Muong Thanh Luxury Quang Ninh is an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers thanks to its convenient, friendly space and professional service. Its prime location allows guests to easily travel to famous attractions such as Bai Chay tourist area, Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay Bridge, or Bai Chay tourist wharf, offering a complete experience for your journey to explore Quang Ninh.
4.3. Antus Homestay
Nestled right next to the poetic Bai Bien Tinh Yeu (Love Beach), Antus Homestay is the perfect stop for those who want to explore the pristine beauty of Co To. Here, guests will enjoy a cozy, comfortable resort space and a relaxing feeling as if they were in their own home.
Antus Homestay with a warm design, creating a feeling of being at home (Source: Collected photos)
The homestay provides full services from a 24/7 reception, guest pick-up, restaurant to air-conditioned rooms and private terraces. Imagine waking up every morning, guests can take a few minutes' walk to breathe in the sea breeze at the nearby Love Beach (Bai Bien Tinh Yeu) or Van Chai Beach (Bai Tam Van Chai), then return to enjoy a sumptuous breakfast buffet. Antus Homestay will surely bring guests a memorable holiday filled with wonderful moments.
4.4. Wyndham Legend Halong
Wyndham Legend Ha Long is the first international 5-star hotel in Bai Chay, belonging to the reputable Wyndham Group. Located right on the beautiful coast of Ha Long, the hotel boasts a wide panoramic view overlooking the World Natural Heritage Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay Bridge, the city center, and the Sun Wheel.
Wyndham with sea view is very popular with many tourists (Source: Collected photos)
Modern, convenient, and user-friendly design, Wyndham Legend Ha Long offers spacious conference space, diverse culinary styles, professional services, and high-class equipment. With a total of 450 rooms from standard to luxury, spread across two towers of 22 and 17 floors, the hotel is committed to providing an international-class accommodation experience that meets all guest needs.
4.5. La Paloma Minh Chau Hotel
Nestled amidst lush green mountains, Minh Chau Quan Lan hotel appears as a neoclassical oasis, full of sophistication and charm. From here, guests only need a few steps to reach Minh Chau beach with its fine white sand and crystal-clear sea water.
La Paloma Minh Chau is built to the standard of a high-class resort (Source: Collected photos)
Every corner of the hotel is meticulously cared for to provide the best experience. With 50 3-star standard bedrooms, a restaurant serving a variety of dishes, and especially a romantic Bar Cafe where guests can enjoy drinks while admiring the panoramic view of Bai Tu Long Bay.
4. Must-visit experience and entertainment spots when traveling to Quang Ninh
4.1. Sun World Ha Long - an entertainment paradise in the heart of the coastal city
Spanning an area of 214 ha, Sun World Ha Long is an international-class entertainment complex, offering unforgettable experiences. The complex is divided into two main areas: the vibrant Bai Chay coastal entertainment area and the fascinating Ba Deo peak entertainment area, connected by a unique 2km-long sea-crossing cable car system.
Sun World Ha Long with a giant wheel offering panoramic sea views
At the Bai Chay coastal area, visitors can explore Dragon Park with thrilling games, challenge yourself on Vietnam's largest roller coaster. Or enjoy a refreshing experience at Typhoon Water Park and relax on the fine white sand of Ha Long beach.
Continuing the journey, the cable car will take visitors to Ba Deo Hill. Here, visitors can admire the serene beauty of the Japanese Garden, explore the Mysterious Castle, and enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from Sun Wheel - one of the world's tallest Ferris wheels.
Modern cable car system at Sun World Ha Long
Invested by Sun Group Corporation, a leading unit in the entertainment sector, Sun World Ha Long promises to meet all the needs of tourists.
4.2. Bai Chay Old Town - a vibrant, bustling space day and night
Bai Chay Old Town is likened to a “miniature Vietnam,” an unmissable destination when visiting Quang Ninh. Here, the image of Hoi An Ancient Town is vividly recreated with ancient yellow houses, vibrant bougainvillea, and colorful lanterns, creating a unique nostalgic space right in the heart of Ha Long. Two rows of adjacent houses with varying shades of yellow along with winding small alleys create an interesting feeling, both bustling and intimate, making it easy for tourists to feel the traditional culture with strong Vietnamese identity.
Bai Chay Old Town evokes a sense of antiquity (Source: Collected photos)
Besides architecture inspired by Hoi An Ancient Town, Bai Chay Old Town also features a citadel gate inspired by the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, adding solemnity and antiquity to the area. At night, bright red lanterns illuminate the entire street, creating a shimmering, magical space that captivates all eyes.
Bai Chay Old Town is not only a place to preserve culture but also a vibrant community space with many traditional activities such as making to he toys, folk games, and unique art events. This is also an ideal destination for those who love taking check-in photos in a space imbued with the ancient Hoi An atmosphere, with colorful and sophisticated street corners.
The cuisine in the old town is also diverse and rich, featuring many delicious specialties of Quang Ninh such as hand-pounded squid cake, ngan (shellfish), sa sung (sea worm), sam bien (sea horseshoe crab), steamed shrimp, ca ba gai (three-spine fish)… which are sure to satisfy even the most discerning diners.
4.3. Ha Long Bay - a natural wonder of the world with a luxurious cruise experience
Ha Long Bay has long been a symbol of Vietnamese tourism, famous for its majestic scenery, rich ecosystem, and unique travel experiences. Twice recognized as a World Natural Heritage site by UNESCO, it not only captures the hearts of domestic tourists but is also a dream destination for millions of international visitors.
The Rooster and Hen Islets (Hon Trong Mai) - a symbol of Ha Long Bay (Source: Collected photos)
The attraction of Ha Long Bay comes from over 1,600 large and small limestone islets with unique shapes, each islet like a work of art skillfully created by nature. Famous caves such as Sung Sot, Thien Cung, and Me Cung possess a mysterious beauty, making anyone who visits marvel.
Experience cruising along the clear blue waters of the Bay (Source: Collected photos)
Besides sightseeing, visitors can also participate in a series of attractive activities such as sunset cruises, kayaking to explore caves, swimming, or night squid fishing amidst the vast sea and sky. Overnight cruises on Ha Long Bay offer a luxurious resort experience with private, well-equipped rooms like 4-5 star hotels, along with restaurants serving meals. There are 3 main types:
Steel-hulled cruise ship: modern, with over 20 rooms, 4-5 star standard.
Wooden-hulled cruise ship: traditional style, with fewer than 20 rooms, 3-4 star standard, popular with foreign tourists.
“6-star” cruise ship: superiorly luxurious such as Essence Grand, Catherine, Sea Star, Elite of the Sea.
4.4. Minh Chau Island - the peaceful "raw gem" of Quang Ninh's islands
Minh Chau Island, located in Minh Chau commune, Van Don district, Quang Ninh province, about 15km from Quan Lan island, is a famous destination with a 1.5km long beach, fine white sand, and clear blue water year-round. It still retains its wild beauty, with gentle waves, safe for both the elderly and children, making it very suitable for a vacation. When visiting Minh Chau, tourists cannot miss Minh Chau beach - the "gem amidst the sea" with blue waters, white sand, and rocky outcrops extending into the sea, ideal for team building activities, water sports, or virtual photography.
Minh Châu Island brilliant with cliffs embraced by the coast (Source: Collected photos)
Gót Beo Wind Pass offers a view from the lush green mountain peak to the vast sea, a place to watch the brilliant sunrise. Along the road connecting Minh Châu - Quan Lạn are scorched grass fields, most beautiful in the afternoon when the golden sunlight blends with the brown color of the grass and the white of the sand. Crystal Sand Dunes, formed from the currents of Cửa Đối and Cửa Mai, possess a sparkling beauty under the sun, soft and smooth, suitable for walking barefoot.
Additionally, Sá Sùng beach is a unique destination, nicknamed the "gold mine" of the local people, most beautiful in the afternoon from 4 PM - 5:30 PM, where tourists can experience digging for sá sùng and enjoy the sweet and fragrant flavor of this specialty.
4.5. Coto Island - a blue sea paradise for an ideal summer vacation
Coto, an island district located in the East of Quang Ninh, about 80km from the mainland, possesses nearly 50 large and small islands with pristine scenery and blue sea, white sand. The ideal time to visit Coto is from April - May with light sunshine and calm seas, or September - October for those who prefer a quiet atmosphere and cheaper service prices.
Co To appears as a poetic touch amidst the sky and earth (Source: Collected photos)
To get to Co To, visitors travel to Cai Rong port then take a high-speed boat or a wooden boat. On the island, visitors can rent motorbikes, electric cars, bicycles, or take a taxi to explore.
Must-visit destinations include: Hong Van beach, Van Chay, Shipwreck, Nam and Dong beaches on Little Co To, Mong Rong rock beach with its unique sedimentary rock system, Co To lighthouse - a point for admiring the beautiful panoramic sea view, pristine choi forest full of flowers in April, Uncle Ho statue complex and the historical relics of Don Cao, along with the lively Ky Con pedestrian street at night. Co To is the perfect choice for a vacation that combines relaxation and exploration of Vietnam's islands and seas.
4.6. Van Don - Northern island and marine ecological tourism capital
Van Don, an island district located in the East and Southeast of Quang Ninh province, embracing Bai Tu Long Bay and adjacent to the natural world heritage site of Ha Long Bay, is an ideal destination for those who love islands, seas, and nature exploration. Amidst the vast blue sea, Van Don possesses over 600 large and small islands, a diverse system of rocky and earthen mountains, lush green primeval forests, and beautiful beaches such as Son Hao, Ngoc Vung, Quan Lan, Minh Chau, or Phuong Dong.
Van Don is an ideal destination with golden sand and clear blue sea (Source: Collected photos)
Coming to Van Don, visitors will have the opportunity to fully experience the beauty of nature and culture through a series of outstanding destinations: pristine Bai Dai beach with a wooden bridge leading to the sea, Quan Lan island with its turquoise waters and romantic Eo Gio, serene Cai Bau pagoda overlooking the bay, magnificent Bai Tu Long National Park with its primeval forest and beautiful caves, Ngoc Vung island with its smooth white sandy beach, pristine Ba Mun island in the middle of the sea; or the modern Phuong Dong tourist area with a long beach, water park, musical fountain square, and food street.
6. Quang Ninh Specialties: Essence of Sea and Mountain Cuisine
6.1. Fresh Seafood: swimming crab, mantis shrimp, horseshoe crab, sea worm
Quang Ninh cuisine is a delicate blend of sea and mountain flavors, creating a unique culinary identity hard to find elsewhere. Thanks to the advantage of a long coastline and abundant seafood resources, visitors here can enjoy fresh and delicious seafood such as swimming crabs, mantis shrimp, horseshoe crabs, or sea worms.
Cu Ky - a unique and famous seafood specialty in Ha Long (Source: Collected photos)
These dishes are often prepared immediately after being caught, preserving their natural sweetness and distinctive oceanic flavor. Just one taste, and visitors will notice a clear difference compared to seafood from many other regions.
6.2. Renowned specialties: fried squid paste, banh tai long ep, pearl yogurt, steamed rice rolls with squid cake
Ha Long squid cake, chewy and fragrant, is a dish that makes many diners willing to buy as gifts.
Tai Long Diep cake, chewy and fragrant with rice, unforgettable after one bite (Source: Collected photos)
Tai Long Diep cake, chewy and fragrant from glutinous rice flour, unique squid roll cake with rich flavor, or cool and creamy Ha Long pearl yogurt are all must-try dishes. Each dish carries the skill and dedication of the maker, contributing to affirming the culinary position of Quang Ninh on Vietnam's tourism map.
6.3. Street snacks: everything is appealing
Besides famous main dishes, Quang Ninh's street food is also a highlight attracting tourists. Just strolling around night markets, food streets, or coastal roads, tourists will encounter a series of attractive snacks such as gat guu cake, fermented pork roll, steamed snails, grilled clams... and you cannot miss the novel variations of Ha Long pearl yogurt sold at many small roadside stalls.
Ha Long cuisine is rich and diverse (Source: Collected photos)
Each dish is prepared according to traditional recipes, carrying the strong local flavor but still creative enough to conquer the taste buds of tourists. It is this diversity, familiarity, and colorfulness that has turned Quang Ninh cuisine into an impressive experience, captivating anyone who has visited.
7. Must-try eateries when traveling to Quang Ninh
7.1. Taiyo Restaurant - Unique combination of Vietnamese - Japanese cuisine at Sun World Ha Long
Amidst numerous famous seafood eateries in Ha Long, Taiyo Restaurant at Sun World emerges as a “new breeze”, offering a unique culinary journey combining Vietnamese and Japanese essences. Located on the 3rd floor of the Mystic Castle, Ba Deo amusement area within Sun World Halong Complex, this place is not only a spot to enjoy delicious food but also an ideal location to gaze upon Ha Long Bay and Bai Chay Bridge from above.
Taiyo Restaurant with many attractive dishes (Source: Collected photos)
Entering the Taiyo space, diners will immediately feel the blend of luxury and intimacy. Large glass windows open up to the vast sea view, prominent yellow-toned tables and chairs are arranged harmoniously, interspersed with bamboo partitions and green potted plants creating subtle accents. With a total of 20 table areas, each serving about 10 people, the restaurant can accommodate up to 200 diners at once, making it an ideal choice for families and large groups.
Regarding cuisine, the dishes here are extremely rich, from fresh seafood characteristic of the coastal region, specialties from the three regions to exquisite Japanese dishes and attractive snacks. The restaurant currently has four set menus with prices of 150,000 VND, 200,000 VND, 250,000 VND, and 300,000 – 350,000 VND/person, each set offering different flavors and preparation methods to suit various tastes. Among them, the 200,000 VND and 250,000 VND sets are most popular with diners thanks to the balance between quality and value.
7.2. Cua Vang Restaurant
Coming to Ha Long without trying fresh seafood is like missing a part of the trip's excitement. The seafood here is famous for its sweet, slightly salty characteristic taste, but if prepared yourself, it's easy to lose its original flavor. The simple solution is to visit seafood specialty restaurants, among which Cua Vang in Bai Chay is a name loved by many tourists. Located facing the bay, here, diners can enjoy bubbling hot pot while watching the fiery sunset over the sea.
Cua Vang Restaurant with a prime location (Source: Collected photos)
A big plus for Cua Vang is its fresh seafood, kept in tanks at the restaurant and only cooked when ordered. The spacious two-story space can accommodate about 700 guests, suitable for tour groups. Notably, this is the only restaurant in Vietnam serving the famous Cua Vang hot pot, combining fresh mud crabs with geoduck, squid, fish, shrimp... cooked in an earthenware pot that retains heat and enhances flavor. The dish is a combination of family secrets and the freshest ingredients from Ha Long Bay.
7.3. Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant
Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant is one of the prominent culinary addresses in Ha Long, established in 2012 with the aim of developing into a leading seafood restaurant chain in the region. From April 2023, Phuong Nam Ha Long Restaurant officially changed its name to Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant, marking a new development in its journey of over 11 years of serving and improving the quality of Quang Ninh cuisine.
Event rooms and dining at Ngoc Phuong Nam restaurant are decorated extremely luxuriously (Source: Collected photos)
Located on the shore of Ha Long Bay, Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant boasts a spacious, airy space, designed in harmony with nature. The restaurant is fully equipped with sound, lighting, projector systems… meeting the needs for organizing parties, conferences, birthdays, class reunions, or welcoming tourist groups. The menu here is diverse, featuring fresh seafood, specialties from the three regions, along with forest and sea dishes prepared by an experienced team of chefs.
With professional service quality, a rich menu, and luxurious space, Ngoc Phuong Nam Restaurant has the honor of being included in the “Top 100 ASEAN Golden Brands”, becoming an ideal destination for tourists visiting Ha Long.
7.4. Hong Hanh Restaurant
Hong Hanh Restaurant is the oldest and most famous seafood chain in Ha Long, with over 20 years of serving diners. The system currently has 6 branches stretching from the city center, Bai Chay to Van Don, convenient for tourists to visit and enjoy. The space at all branches is spacious, modern, suitable for parties, conferences, birthdays, or family meals.
Restaurant Hong Hanh not only has delicious cuisine but also a spacious area (Source: Collected photos)
Hong Hạnh is known for its rich menu, highlighting fresh seafood dishes such as lobster, crab, scallops, sea urchins, snails, fish… processed immediately after being caught, preserving the full flavor of Quang Ninh sea. Besides, the sweet and sour seafood hot pot, beef dipped in vinegar, Ha Long fish cake, shrimp with tamarind sauce, or stir-fried snails with garlic are also popular choices among many diners.
With fresh ingredients, skillful preparation, and unforgettable flavors, Hong Hạnh has become a familiar culinary destination for tourists visiting Ha Long.
8. The most chill cafes with beautiful views in Quang Ninh
8.1. Rooftop Cafe & Bar
Amidst countless high-view cafes in Ha Long, Rooftop Cafe & Bar still stands out as a special stop. It's not just a cafe, but also a place where visitors can gaze at the entire city from above.
Rooftop Cafe & Bar with a million-dollar view (Source: Collected photos)
The establishment is located on the 10th floor of a building, opening up a spacious area and a vast view embracing the whole Ha Long. During the day, it is an ideal place for visitors to find a quiet corner, chat with friends, or relax after stressful working hours. When night falls, the city scene sparkling with lights, cars following each other through the streets will make visitors clearly feel the vibrant yet poetic rhythm of life.
Just a drink that suits your taste, a beautiful seating spot, and a few hours to let your soul drift with the scenery, visitors will feel as if they have recharged their energy and spirit.
Address: No. 1, 25/4 Street, Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh
Phone: 020 3362 5789
8.2. Sun Hill Ha Long
Opened in 2022, Sun Hill Ha Long has quickly become a favorite meeting point for tourists and young people thanks to its prime location, "million-dollar" view, and diverse service complex: cafes, restaurants, and vibrant entertainment events. This place is not only a spot for enjoying beautiful scenery but also a "haven" for emotionally charged music nights.
Sun Hill Ha Long has many floors to serve tourists who want to chill and take photos (Source: Collected photos)
Located on Dang Ba Hat pass, Sun Hill offers a panoramic view of the picturesque Ha Long Bay, with lush green pine hills and the brilliant Sun Wheel behind. The space at Sun Hill carries a strong romantic Mediterranean vibe, highlighted by warm milky orange tones, pristine white umbrellas, and graceful potted plants.
The three spacious floors, largely open-air and breezy, allow visitors to enjoy drinks while watching the sunset over the bay. When night falls, twinkling yellow lights transform the place into an unforgettable romantic scene. Inside, wooden furniture and natural materials create a cozy and friendly atmosphere.
Address: Dang Ba Hat Street, Hong Gai Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh
Phone: 079 979 1900
8.3. La Luna Coffee Ha Long
Perched on the high and airy Monaco Hill, La Luna Coffee (780 Ha Long, Bai Chay, Ha Long City) is a million-dollar view cafe that locals and tourists alike want to visit at least once. Open daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, La Luna impresses at first sight with an area of over 1 hectare, covered in greenery, flowers, and a series of unique miniature landscapes such as wooden bridges, wooden houses, flower gardens…
La Luna Coffee with its romantic outdoor seating areas (Source: Collected photos)
From any corner of La Luna, visitors can gaze out at spectacular scenery: vast blue sea view, romantic pine hill view or the sparkling panorama of Ha Long city. This is the perfect stop to relax amidst fresh nature and capture "million-like" virtual living moments with family and friends.
La Luna Coffee's menu is quite diverse, from rich coffee, refreshing tea, colorful fruit juices to attractive cakes. This is an ideal space to chat with friends, enjoy delicious drinks, and quickly "hunt" for some pretty photos.
Address: Monaco Hill, 780 Ha Long, Bai Chay, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh
Phone number: 0889 776 886
8.4. Thong Zeo
Nestled on a high hill overlooking Ha Long Bay, Thong Zeo is an ideal rendezvous for those seeking a space that is both quiet and "chic" to sip coffee and enjoy the cool sea breeze. From early morning when the sun rises until the moment the sunset paints the water golden, each moment here has its own charm, making anyone want to capture many memorable photos.
Cafe Thong Zeo is too famous for its sea view (Source: Collected photos)
Previously, Thong Zeo was known as a "miniature Da Lat" in the heart of Ha Long with lush green pine forests surrounding it. After a few storms, the number of pine trees decreased, but in return, the panoramic view embracing the sea and sky here is still enough to "steal the hearts" of all tourists. The natural scenery and prime location help Thong Zeo become one of the most beautiful hillside cafes in Ha Long.
Address: Hai Quan Area B Guesthouse - Hai Quan Street, Ha Long, Quang Ninh
Phone: 037 362 9398
9. What to buy as gifts when traveling to Quang Ninh?
9.1. Ha Long Squid Cake
Speaking of Quang Ninh, especially Ha Long, one cannot miss squid cake - a dish that has created the culinary brand of this coastal region. Ha Long squid cake is made from fresh, delicious squid with thick, meaty bodies, just caught from the clear blue sea.
Ha Long squid cake, though simply processed, has an unforgettable delicious taste (Source: Collected photos)
The squid is cleaned, hand-pounded until sticky, mixed with just the right seasoning, and fried golden in hot oil.
A standard piece of squid cake will be golden yellow, with a slight crispness when bitten into, followed by the rich sweet taste of fresh seafood. Squid cake can be eaten with sticky rice, banh cuon dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce, or hot rice, all of which are delicious. Currently, squid cake is vacuum-packed, making it very convenient to bring home as a gift, preserving its flavor for a long time.
9.2. Dried Sea Worm, One-sun Dried Squid
Dried sea worm is a "treasure" of the Quang Ninh sea, rare and highly valuable. This is a type of seafood that fishermen dry after cleaning, often used to make a clear, naturally fragrant, and nutritious broth. Sea worm is considered a "secret" ingredient that makes pho, bun, or congee dishes much richer.
Besides that, one-sun dried squid is also a popular gift among tourists. Fresh squid is dried under the sun only once to remove excess water while retaining the meat's sweetness and tenderness. When grilled, the squid releases an alluring aroma, its meat is chewy and naturally sweet, and dipping it with chili sauce is "top-notch". These are all premium seafood gifts, suitable for gifting or enjoying with family.
9.3. Dried Shrimp Floss
Quang Ninh dried shrimp floss is a delicious and convenient dish, suitable for many quick meals. Shrimp are carefully selected, usually fresh sea shrimp, peeled, boiled, dried by stir-frying, then pounded or ground. This floss retains the salty-sweet taste of the sea, is fragrant, savory, and rich in protein. Simply sprinkle a little shrimp floss on hot rice, sticky rice, congee, or bread for a delicious meal. Being compact and easy to store, dried shrimp floss is a practical gift that embodies the essence of the sea.
Dried shrimp paste eaten with rice is very appetizing (Source: Collected photo)
9.4. Sea souvenirs and local products
Besides specialty dishes, Quang Ninh also has many unique souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Tourists can find handicraft products made from shells, conch shells, coral, or colorful sand paintings inspired by the sea.
Souvenir shops with a strong Ha Long essence (Source: Collected photos)
Especially, the mining region of Quang Ninh is also famous for products made from coal, meticulously crafted into statues, paintings, or compact decorative items. These gifts are not only beautiful but also carry commemorative value, helping to preserve the image of Vietnam's most unique coastal and mining land.
10. Important Notes for Traveling to Quang Ninh
When traveling to Quang Ninh, to ensure a complete and smooth trip, visitors should note some important tips. Firstly, follow the weather forecast and choose a suitable time, as outdoor activities such as visiting Ha Long Bay, swimming, or hiking will be significantly affected by weather conditions. The summer from April to June is the ideal time for sightseeing and swimming, therefore, visitors should book boat tickets, hotels, and tour services in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure accommodation and a convenient experience.
How to enjoy a complete trip? (Source: Collected photos)
Besides, when traveling between tourist attractions, research the distance, transportation, and prices in advance to be proactive in your itinerary. If you want to enjoy Quang Ninh specialties, choose reputable restaurants or those recommended by locals to ensure quality and reasonable prices. For activities at sea, follow the staff's instructions and always wear a life jacket when traveling by boat to ensure safety.
Finally, don't forget to prepare necessary personal items such as sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, suitable footwear, and some common medicines. Respecting the culture and maintaining environmental hygiene at tourist attractions is also important, helping tourists have a complete experience and contribute to preserving the beauty of Quang Ninh for future visitors.
