1. Overview of the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Many Southern tourists often feel bewildered when planning for the first time from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long . The long distance and differences in terrain make choosing transportation more important than ever.

1.1. Why choose Ha Long for a vacation from Ho Chi Minh City.

Ha Long possesses a completely different beauty compared to familiar southern beach destinations. Ha Long Bay is recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site with thousands of limestone islands dotted on the deep blue water. The cool climate year-round creates a pleasant feeling, especially during the hot summer months in Ho Chi Minh City.

The most attractive thing when traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long is the cultural contrast between the two regions. Tourists will enjoy seafood cuisine rich in Northern flavors, explore magnificent caves, and experience world-class entertainment activities at Sun World Ha Long. This is a great opportunity for tourists to relax after stressful working days in the city.

Ha Long Bay, a natural wonder of the world, seen from above. (Source: Bao Quang Ninh)

1.2. Distance and total travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

The aerial distance from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long is about 1,670 km, but the actual journey depends heavily on the chosen mode of transport. Flying is the fastest option with a flight time of 2 hours and 10 minutes to Van Don Airport, followed by a taxi or limousine ride of about 45 - 60 minutes to reach the center of Ha Long.

If choosing the train, travelers need to spend 30 - 37 hours traveling from Saigon Station to Hanoi Station, then continue the journey by bus for about 3 more hours. Interprovincial buses take a similar amount of time, about 32 - 38 hours of travel, with some cases requiring continuous transfers. Each mode of transport has its own advantages and disadvantages, suitable for different groups of travelers and specific budgets.

2. Popular ways to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long nowadays.

The choice of transport from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long depends on many factors such as time, budget, and desired comfort level. Currently, there are 4 main options that travelers often choose.

2.1. Traveling by plane from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Flying is the most popular choice for the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long thanks to significant time savings. Currently, travelers can fly to Van Don Airport (VDO), about 53 km from Ha Long, or Cat Bi Airport (HPH) in Hai Phong, about 43 km from Ha Long.

Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air both operate flights from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Van Don and Hai Phong. The flight time is about 2 hours, with schedules usually focusing on early morning and late afternoon. From Van Don Airport, travelers can take a taxi for 500,000 - 700,000 VND or choose a shared limousine for 200,000 - 300,000 VND/person to reach the center of Ha Long.

Airfare ranges from 1,098,000 VND to 1,800,000 VND/way during the low season, and can increase to 2,500,000-3,700,000 VND/way during holidays and Tet. Vietjet Air often has the most competitive prices with many attractive promotions.

Airplanes are the optimal choice for the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long thanks to time savings. (Source: Collected)

2.2. Traveling by train from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Trains offer a slow and relaxing travel experience for those who want to admire the beautiful scenery along the way. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long by train starts from Saigon station in District 3, with 6 North-South trains daily departing between 6:00 AM and 10:30 PM.

The travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi is about 31 - 37 hours depending on the train type. From Hanoi station, visitors continue to travel by bus or taxi to Ha Long, taking an additional 2.5 - 3 hours. Train ticket prices range from VND 900,000 (hard seat) to VND 1,300,000 (air-conditioned 4-berth sleeper), excluding the travel cost from Hanoi to Ha Long of about VND 200,000-350,000.

This option is suitable for tourists with ample time, who enjoy experiences and want to save costs. However, one needs to be prepared for a long and potentially tiring journey.

2.3. Traveling by bus or limousine from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Buses from Ho Chi Minh City do not go directly to Ha Long but usually stop in Hai Phong, after which visitors must change buses to reach Ha Long. The most popular route is from Mien Dong Bus Station (Ho Chi Minh City) to Thuong Ly Bus Station (Hai Phong), operated by many bus companies such as Hoang Long, Phuong Trang.

The travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long by bus is about 32 - 38 hours, including rest time and waiting for bus changes. Ticket prices range from VND 1,100,000 to VND 1,300,000 per trip for sleeper seats. Hoang Long buses are highly rated by many tourists for their stable service and diverse schedules.

2.4. Combining multiple means of transport (plane + bus, train + limousine).

Many tourists choose to combine planes and buses to optimize both time and cost for the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long. The most popular option is to fly to Van Don airport, then travel by limousine or taxi to Ha Long.

For families with young children or the elderly, it is advisable to fly directly to Van Don and hire a private taxi to ensure comfort. The total cost is about VND 2,000,000 - 2,500,000/person including plane tickets and taxi. Young groups can choose to fly to Hai Phong, then take a bus to save about VND 300,000 - 500,000/person.

The train combined with limousine option is suitable for tourists who want to experience and have ample time. The total cost is about VND 1,400,000 - 1,800,000/person, lower than flying but takes more time.

3. Guide to finding cheap flight tickets from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Finding cheap flight tickets for the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long requires some techniques and the right timing. Understanding airlines and booking tips will help save significant costs.

3.1. Airlines operating the Ho Chi Minh City – Quang Ninh/Hai Phong route.

The three main airlines operating the route from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long are Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air. Vietnam Airlines, with its reputable brand, offers stable service. Ticket prices are usually higher but come with many amenities such as free meals and 23kg checked baggage.

Bamboo Airways offers quality service with a comfortable flying experience, spacious seats, and many flight schedule options. Bamboo Airways ticket prices usually range in the mid-tier, suitable for passengers seeking a balance between quality and cost.

Vietjet Air stands out with competitive prices and many attractive promotions. This airline frequently offers tickets starting from VND 1,098,000, and even has sales of VND 0 (excluding taxes and fees). Off-peak season prices (March-May and September-November) range from VND 1,098,000-1,500,000/trip. During peak summer season (June-August) and holidays, ticket prices can increase to VND 2,000,000-3,700,000/trip.

Hunting for cheap flight tickets for the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long will help significantly save costs. (Source: Collected)

3.2. Tips for hunting cheap flight tickets, promotions, and smart booking methods.

The prime time to book tickets from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long is 45 - 60 days before the departure date. Airlines often release cheap tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, avoiding weekends when demand is high. Register to receive notifications from the official airline websites to not miss flash sale programs.

Use incognito browsing mode when searching for tickets to avoid websites remembering your search history and increasing prices. Compare prices on multiple platforms such as official websites, Traveloka, or Booking to choose the best price. Note to carefully read the ticket exchange and refund conditions, especially for promotional tickets which often have restrictions on itinerary changes.

Booking round-trip tickets is usually cheaper than booking one-way tickets separately. If your schedule is flexible, choose to fly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays and avoid holidays and weekends to get better prices.

4. Suggested 3N2D self-guided itinerary from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Making a detailed plan for the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long helps maximize your time and experience the most attractive destinations. A 3-day, 2-night itinerary is the ideal time to fully explore the beauty of Ha Long.

4.1. Day 1: Starting the journey at Sun World Ha Long

Departing with a morning flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don at 6:20 AM and landing around 8:35 AM, you will only need a little more time to travel to Ha Long and check into your hotel. From here, the journey to explore Sun World Ha Long begins. The park is located right in Bai Chay, famous for the Queen Cable Car with panoramic views of the beautiful Ha Long Bay.

Visitors can stop for lunch right within the park's premises. Here, there are many buffet restaurants serving a variety of Asian – European dishes, fresh seafood, and specialty dishes from the Quang Ninh coastal region. The space is spacious and airy, suitable for resting and recharging before continuing to explore other games and experiences in the afternoon.

In the afternoon at Sun World Ha Long, don't miss the Dragon Park area with its thrilling games and the Typhoon Water Park area to blow away the summer heat. The 215m high Sun Wheel is an ideal check-in spot as the sun sets.

In the evening, return to the city center and enjoy dinner with the specialty Ha Long squid cake at Huong Bien restaurant on Ha Long street.

The 215m high Sun Wheel is an ideal check-in spot at sunset.

4.2. Day 2: Conquer the legendary Ha Long Bay

Early morning at 8:00 AM, join a tour to cruise Ha Long Bay from Tuan Chau Port. The first stop is Thien Cung Cave with magnificent stalactites illuminated in vibrant colors. Next is Dau Go Island with a beautiful beach and wooden stairs leading to the top to admire the panoramic view of the bay.

At noon, enjoy a delicious meal on the boat with fresh seafood characteristic of the Quang Ninh coastal region.

In the afternoon, kayak to explore Cua Van fishing village, a place that preserves the traditional culture of local fishermen.

In the evening, stroll on Bai Chay Bridge, listening to the sound of waves and watching the city lights reflect on the water.

4.3. Day 3: Explore Ha Long Culture and Cuisine

In the morning, visit Quang Ninh Museum with its unique coal-shaped architecture, displaying artifacts about the formation history of Ha Long Bay. Visit Ha Long Market to buy local specialties as gifts such as famous squid sausage, dried shrimp, and fermented pork roll.

At noon, enjoy seafood noodle soup and 'ngan bien' at Ngoc Mai restaurant on Nguyen Du street.

In the afternoon, rest and pack luggage, transfer to Van Don Airport to fly back to Ho Chi Minh City at 5:20 PM. The flight arrives at Tan Son Nhat Airport around 7:35 PM, concluding an impressive journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Seafood noodle soup is one of the must-try dishes when visiting Ha Long. (Source: Collected)

5. Tips and notes when traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long.

Thorough preparation for the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long will help the journey go smoothly and avoid unnecessary troubles. The following practical tips are very useful.

5.1. Tips for preparing luggage and personal documents.

Personal documents are the top priority to prepare for the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long. Bring your Citizen Identity Card (CCCD) for flight check-in and hotel check-in. For children under 14 years old, a birth certificate or household registration book must be included.

Ha Long has a cooler climate than Ho Chi Minh City, especially in winter and at night. You should bring a light jacket, a thin sweater, and long pants. Non-slip sports shoes are essential when visiting caves and hiking.

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are indispensable items when visiting the bay and for outdoor activities.

Personal medication, especially motion sickness medication, should be prepared in advance. A power bank and waterproof bag to protect your phone when kayaking or participating in water activities.

5.2. Specific notes when traveling by plane, train, bus during peak season.

Peak tourist season (April-May, July-August, and Tet holiday) requires early booking for the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long. Flight tickets need to be booked 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability and good prices. Recheck flight information 24 hours before departure as flight schedules may change.

Trains during peak season are often fully booked, especially 4-berth sleeper cabins. It is advisable to book tickets early via the website dsvn.vn or at the station to avoid tickets running out.

Interprovincial buses need to be booked in advance via phone or the bus company's website. Be prepared for traffic jams in big cities, especially when passing through Hanoi and Hai Phong during peak hours.

5.3. Tips for safe and cost-effective travel for families with young children/groups of friends.

Families with young children should prioritize flying for the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long to reduce travel time. Choose morning flights so children don't get tired and have time to rest upon arrival. Book seats near the aisle for convenient childcare and movement.

In Ha Long, renting a motorbike for 150,000 - 200,000 VND/day is a flexible and economical way to get around. Groups of tourists can rent a 7-seater car for 1,200,000 - 1,500,000 VND/day; sharing it is both convenient and cost-effective. Always ask taxi drivers for the price and agree on the fare before getting in the car.

Book hotel rooms near the center to save on transportation costs. The Bai Chay area has many family guesthouses priced at 400,000 - 800,000 VND/night, suitable for large groups of tourists. Eat at local eateries instead of tourist restaurants to save 30-50% on costs.

6. Suggestions for combination to make the trip more complete.

To make the trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long more meaningful and memorable, combining diverse attractions and experiences is essential. Among them, Sun World Ha Long is an unmissable destination.

6.1. Sun World Ha Long: an unmissable entertainment and recreation spot.

Sun World Ha Long is located in Bai Chay, the heart of Ha Long city, only about 2 km from the center. This complex operates Monday to Friday from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Saturday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Entrance tickets range from 300,000 VND to 600,000 VND/adult depending on the experience package, children's prices range from 200,000 VND to 500,000 VND/child.

The highlight of Sun World Ha Long is the 2.22 km Queen Cable Car crossing the bay, offering stunning 360-degree views. Dragon Park with its roller coaster and thrilling rides attracts young people. Typhoon Water Park, covering 1.6 hectares, is an ideal place to cool off with its water slides and artificial wave pool.

The 215-meter-high Sun Wheel Ferris wheel is a symbol of Ha Long, especially impressive when lit up at night. The light and water music show takes place nightly at the central square, creating a unique artistic space.

Dragon Park with roller coasters and thrill rides attracts young people.

6.2. Combine itinerary with city experiences.

Mornings at Sun World Ha Long can be combined with a visit to the nearby Quang Ninh Museum. The museum's modern architecture, shaped like a coal block, is an ideal photo spot. Inside, it displays many valuable artifacts about the formation history of Ha Long Bay and ancient Vietnamese culture.

In the afternoon after leaving Sun World Ha Long, visit Ha Long Market, 1 km away, to shop for specialties. Ha Long squid sausage, Van Don dried shrimp, and sun-dried squid are meaningful gifts. Around the market area, there are many street food stalls serving seafood noodle soup, fish cake, and clam dishes for 30,000 - 50,000 VND/bowl.

In the evening, stroll on Bai Chay Bridge to admire the city's night view. The Sun Carnival Plaza pedestrian street operates from 14:00 to 24:00 with many street art performances and diverse food stalls.

From Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long it is not just a trip but also a journey to find peaceful moments amidst the majestic natural beauty. When fully prepared and choosing suitable transportation, you will fully appreciate the subtlety of each experience. Let Ha Long touch your heart and start your journey today