1. Overview of Quang Ninh Travel: 2 Days 1 Night
Quang Ninh is an attractive tourist destination. (Source: Collected)
Quang Ninh is an ideal destination for a short trip, where visitors can experience the majestic beauty of Ha Long Bay along with many special entertainment and culinary activities. In just 2 days and 1 night, you can explore caves, beautiful islands, have fun at Sun World, and enjoy fresh seafood, bringing a memorable journey amidst the Northeast sea and sky.
1.1. Why choose a 2-day 1-night trip to Quang Ninh?
Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Natural Heritage – is the brilliant symbol of Quang Ninh tourism. It gathers thousands of large and small islands amidst emerald waters, creating a majestic landscape that is rarely matched elsewhere. Visitors can admire famous caves like Sung Sot, Thien Cung, Dau Go, or visit Ti Top Island, Co To Island to fully appreciate the beauty of the Northeast sea and sky.
Thanks to its convenient transportation advantages, Quang Ninh is particularly suitable for short trips. From Hanoi, it only takes about 2.5 hours to travel on the modern highway to reach Ha Long. Additionally, Van Don Airport opens direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City and many other major cities, making it easy for visitors nationwide to experience the heritage exploration journey.
By choosing a 2-day 1-night trip to Quang Ninh, you will immerse yourself in many exciting activities: cruising on the bay in the morning to admire the scenery, playing at Sun World Ha Long in the afternoon, and enjoying fresh seafood at Bai Chay in the evening. Every moment is a memorable experience, perfectly combining exploration and relaxation.
1.2. Suitable for whom
This itinerary is ideal for most types of travelers.
Families with young children will enjoy safe boat trips on the bay, exploring the Quang Ninh Museum, or playing at Sun World – an entertainment paradise for all ages.
Elderly people can easily visit as the itinerary is scientifically arranged, not too dense, and manageable for movement.
Couples will be captivated by the romantic sunset scenery on Ha Long Bay or the sparkling lights of Bai Chay beach at night. Many high-class seaside resorts are also ideal choices for honeymoons or wedding photoshoots.
Young, active groups can try kayaking, the Queen Cable Car, or explore Ha Long's night cuisine. The short, easy-to-travel distance makes it a perfect weekend getaway destination.
2. How to travel to Quang Ninh for a 2-day 1-night itinerary
There are many ways to travel to Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Traveling to Quang Ninh for a 2-day, 1-night itinerary is now extremely convenient thanks to the highway system, airports, and diverse public transportation options. Whether departing from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other provinces, tourists can easily choose between buses, limousines, airplanes, or self-driven cars to begin their journey exploring Ha Long and other prominent tourist destinations in the province.
2.1. How to get from Hanoi to Quang Ninh/Ha Long
For tourists departing from Hanoi, traveling to Quang Ninh is now extremely convenient thanks to the modern highway system. High-quality limousines and buses are the two most popular options for a 2-day, 1-night Quang Ninh tour. Some reputable bus companies such as Phuong Trang, Queen Cafe, Ha Long Bay Limousine offer multiple daily trips, departing from central stations like My Dinh, Giap Bat, and Nuoc Ngam. Ticket prices range from 200,000 – 350,000 VND/trip, with travel time only about 2.5 – 3 hours via the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long expressway.
If you are driving yourself, the distance is about 170 km with flat roads, convenient rest stops, and clear signage. The round-trip expressway toll is around 200,000 VND, plus fuel costs of about 300,000 VND for the entire journey. This method allows tourists to be flexible with their time, easily stopping at places along the way such as Uong Bi, Bai Chay, or Cam Pha for additional sightseeing.
Additionally, for groups of 4–7 people, taking a private taxi from Hanoi to Ha Long is also a comfortable and quick option. The price per trip ranges from 1.8 – 2.2 million VND depending on the car type, suitable for families or groups of friends. It is advisable to book the car 1–2 days in advance for better prices and to ensure service quality.
2.2. Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces
For tourists in the South, Van Don Airport (Quang Ninh) is a modern air gateway, convenient for a 2-day, 1-night Ha Long tour. Currently, airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways operate multiple daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City, with a flight time of about 2 hours and round-trip ticket prices from 2 – 4 million VND depending on the time.
From Van Don Airport to Ha Long city center is about 50 km. You can choose the airport bus (ticket price around 100,000 VND, travel time 1 hour) or a fixed-price taxi (price 500,000 – 600,000 VND/trip) – very convenient if traveling in groups or with a lot of luggage.
Guests from the Central and Central Highlands can fly to Hanoi, then continue by limousine bus from Hanoi to Ha Long. Popular flight routes such as Da Nang – Noi Bai, Nha Trang – Noi Bai, or Da Lat – Noi Bai operate stably, with a total travel time to Ha Long of only about 5 – 6 hours.
2.3. Intra-provincial transportation when traveling in Quang Ninh for 2 days and 1 night
During a 2-day, 1-night trip to Quang Ninh, traveling between attractions such as Bai Chay, Sun World Ha Long, the pier, or the Quang Ninh Museum is quite convenient.
Taxis and ride-hailing services: Grab and Be operate actively in Ha Long with transparent fares. Short distances like from Bai Chay to the pier cost only 15,000 – 20,000 VND, or to Sun World Ha Long from 30,000 – 50,000 VND.
Motorbike rental: An economical and flexible option for tourists who like to explore independently. Tourists can rent directly at their hotel or from tourist shops. When picking up the motorbike, remember to check the brakes, lights, fuel, and bring all necessary documents.
Buses: A convenient public transport option with ticket prices only 7,000 – 25,000 VND/trip. Route number 3 connects Van Don Airport – Ha Long city center, and route number 18 passes through Sun World, Bai Chay, Hon Gai, and other famous tourist areas.
During peak season, tourists should book transportation services, airport taxis, or private tour buses in advance to avoid waiting and save travel time.
3. Attractive destinations for a 2-day, 1-night trip to Quang Ninh
Quang Ninh always attracts tourists with its harmonious blend of majestic nature and unique cultural – entertainment attractions. Even with just 2 days and 1 night, you can fully experience the magnificent Ha Long Bay, the poetic Ti Top Island, the mystical Sung Sot Cave, as well as the modern space of Sun World Ha Long and the Quang Ninh Museum.
3.1. Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay offers many interesting experiences for tourists. (Source: Collected)
Ha Long Bay is always an indispensable highlight in a 2-day 1-night Quang Ninh tour. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site in 1994, the bay possesses an area of 1,553 km² with nearly 2,000 large and small limestone islands, creating a magnificent and mystical natural landscape.
Tours to visit the bay often depart from Tuan Chau or Ha Long ports, lasting from 4 hours to overnight cruises, offering an incredibly romantic night sea view experience.
One of the prominent stops is Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in the bay with an area of nearly 10,000 m². The cave has two spacious chambers, naturally lit through rock crevices, especially the 
Enjoy many exciting games at Sun World Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
Sun World Ha Long is an international-class entertainment complex, contributing to the unique charm of the Quang Ninh 2-day 1-night tour . Located right in the center of Bai Chay, this complex is divided into several prominent areas such as Dragon Park, Typhoon Water Park, Queen Cable Car, and Zen Garden Japanese Garden.
At Dragon Park, visitors can try over 20 modern thrilling games, among which the standout is the Dragon Coaster roller coaster, 1 km long with a speed of up to 60 km/h, offering an unforgettable "heart-stopping" experience.
The Queen Cable Car is an ideal choice for those who love sightseeing – the 2.2 km long cable car route takes visitors up to a height of 180 m, opening up a panoramic view of the majestic Ha Long Bay. The cabins are luxuriously designed, with transparent glass floors giving passengers the feeling of floating in mid-air.
In the summer, Typhoon Water Park attracts a large number of visitors with its diverse water games, suitable for both families and groups of young people.
3.4. Quang Ninh Museum
Located on Tran Quoc Nghien street, Quang Ninh Museum is a prominent cultural symbol of the province. The building was designed by Spanish architect Salvador Perez Arroyo, inspired by the image of a giant coal stone – the precious resource that defines the mining region.
The museum has an area of 19,300 m² with three exhibition floors and a basement, its entire exterior is clad in black mirrors, creating a spectacular reflection effect with the sea and sky.
1st Floor: Displays geological samples, minerals, and coal mined through different periods.
2nd Floor: Introduces the formation history of Ha Long Bay, 3D models, and rare fossils.
3rd Floor: A space for island and sea culture, recreating the life of fishermen through coracles, fishing nets, and traditional artifacts.
A special feature of the museum is the collection of ancient ceramics salvaged from the seabed of Ha Long Bay, testifying to the ancient maritime trade route between Vietnam and neighboring countries. The museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except Mondays), entrance fee: 30,000 VND/adult, 15,000 VND/child. Visitors can hire Vietnamese or English speaking guides for a deeper understanding of each exhibition area.
3.5. Ti Top Island, Sung Sot Cave
Ti Top Island was named after Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov, who visited with President Ho Chi Minh in 1962. Although its area is only about 7 hectares, this island impresses with its natural crescent-shaped white sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters year-round. It is an ideal place for swimming, kayaking, or snorkeling.
A 400m long path with sturdy stone steps leads to the island's summit, 50m high, where you can admire the magnificent panorama of Ha Long Bay – especially at sunset when the sun dips below the water.
Sung Sot Cave, located on Bo Hon Island, was discovered by the French in 1901 and is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in the bay. The entrance is narrow, but inside it opens into a giant space with a ceiling up to 30 m high and a system of stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. The formations take on many whimsical shapes like "forest elephants," "ancient banyan trees," or "doctors examining patients."
The modern lighting system highlights the shimmering, magical beauty while preserving the natural wildness of the cave – making it a "must-visit" spot on any Ha Long Bay tour.
4. Tips for choosing accommodation when traveling to Quang Ninh for 2 days and 1 night
Choose suitable accommodation when visiting Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
When planning a 2-day, 1-night Quang Ninh trip, choosing suitable accommodation plays an important role in making the trip more complete. Among them, Bai Chay and Tuan Chau areas are two points concentrating many high-quality hotels and resorts, meeting needs from budget to high-end.
Wyndham Legend Ha Long is a prominent choice with a beautiful bay view, an outdoor pool, and a high-class spa area. Room rates range from approximately 2.8 – 4.5 million VND/night.
FLC Grand Hotel Ha Long, located near Sun World, offers professional services and an attractive buffet breakfast, priced from 1.8 – 3.2 million VND/night.
Ha Long Backpackers Hostel offers dormitory rooms from only 200,000 VND/bed, while private rooms range from 600,000 – 900,000 VND/night.
Royal Lotus Ha Long Resort & Villas with a system of private villas, private pools, priced from 8 – 15 million VND/night.
Additionally, the experience of sleeping overnight on a cruise is a must-try suggestion – famous brands like Paradise Luxury, Stellar of the Seas, Orchid Cruise offer luxurious journeys amidst the poetic Ha Long Bay, priced from 3.5 – 12 million VND/person depending on room type and accompanying services.
To save costs on a Quang Ninh trip, visitors should book rooms 2 – 4 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (May – September).
5. What to eat on a 2-day, 1-night Quang Ninh trip?
Enjoy specialty squid cake of Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Quang Ninh is not only famous for its beautiful natural landscapes but also attracts tourists with its fresh and diverse seafood cuisine. Even with only 2 days and 1 night, you should still take time to enjoy coastal specialties such as Ha Long squid cake, sipunculid worms, or mantis shrimp noodle soup – unforgettable culinary experiences.
5.1. Seafood dishes "must-try"
Quang Ninh's cuisine always knows how to conquer visitors with its fresh sea flavors and sophisticated preparation methods. Even with only 2 days and 1 night to explore, you should still take time to enjoy the characteristic seafood dishes that make the mining region famous, such as Ha Long squid cake, sipunculid worms, or mantis shrimp noodle soup.
A 2-day, 1-night trip to Quang Ninh will not be complete if you haven't tried Ha Long squid cake – the iconic dish of this coastal area. The squid must be fresh and delicious, pounded by hand until smooth, then shaped into flat round patties, and grilled golden over charcoal. When you bite into the cake, the natural sweetness of the squid blends with a rich, aromatic flavor, especially delicious when dipped with chili sauce. The price of squid cake ranges from 15,000 – 20,000 VND/piece at casual eateries or 200,000 – 300,000 VND/kg at famous restaurants.
Next is sipunculid worms – the "sea ginseng" of Quang Ninh, famous for their high nutritional value and unique flavor. Fresh sipunculid worms are often prepared in various ways such as stir-fried, grilled, or dried for stewing in soup. Among these, stir-fried sipunculid worms are a popular choice due to their crispy, sweet, and slightly fatty taste. The price for a portion of stir-fried sipunculid worms is usually from 400,000 – 800,000 VND, depending on the season and size.
In addition, mantis shrimp noodle soup is also a characteristic dish you shouldn't miss. The broth is simmered from pork bones and dried shrimp, combined with sweet and slightly chewy mantis shrimp meat, bringing a delicate yet nutritious flavor. Besides, grilled horseshoe crab with charcoal served with rice paper and fresh herbs is also a dish that "makes guests nostalgic" for diners. Each serving of mantis shrimp noodle soup or grilled horseshoe crab costs about 80,000 – 150,000 VND depending on the restaurant.
5.2. Notable eateries and restaurants in Ha Long/Bai Chay
The Ha Long and Bai Chay areas have many famous seafood restaurants, suitable for both individual customers and large groups.
Hong Hanh Restaurant – No. 8 Bai Chay Street: This is a familiar address for domestic and international tourists with a diverse menu ranging from crab stir-fried with tamarind, grilled shrimp with scallion oil to sour fish soup with cobia. The spacious area, sea view, and reasonable prices range from 800,000 – 1,500,000 VND/meal for a group of 4–6 people.
Phuong Nam Restaurant – located on Ha Long Street, near Bai Chay Bridge: This place is known for its fresh seafood raised directly in tanks, where customers can choose their seafood for preparation. In addition to steamed, grilled, and stir-fried dishes, the restaurant also serves a vegetarian menu, suitable for all types of tourists.
Lang Chai Cuisine – Bai Chay Market area: The space is imbued with the breath of the sea, serving traditional seafood dishes and street grilled food. When night falls, you can wander around Bai Chay Night Market (open from 6 PM to 11 PM), where countless delicious dishes are sold, such as grilled fish cake, banh can, seafood skewers, priced from only 20,000 – 50,000 VND/dish – very suitable for foodies who love to explore local flavors.
6. Useful tips for a 2-day, 1-night trip to Quang Ninh
Prepare adequate luggage for a 2-day 1-night trip to Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
To make your 2-day 1-night Quang Ninh trip complete and comfortable, thorough preparation before the trip is essential.
Bring swimwear, towels, and non-slip sandals for convenience when participating in activities like swimming, kayaking, or exploring caves. Don't forget sunscreen with SPF 50+, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin and eyes from the harsh sun of the coastal area.
Prepare personal medications such as motion sickness pills, stomach medicine, and allergy medication to proactively handle emergency situations.
Personal documents should be placed in a waterproof bag to ensure safety when traveling by boat or participating in sea activities.
Tourists should also carry some small change for easy payment when shopping at seafood markets or tipping tour guides.
Besides enjoying your vacation, you should also contribute to protecting Quang Ninh's marine environment by not littering, not breaking coral, or taking marine life home.
When visiting spiritual sites like Long Tien Pagoda or Yen Tu, dress modestly, avoiding shorts or tank tops, to show respect for the sacred space.
Maintain order and avoid making noise when passing through residential areas to leave a good impression on the local people.
7. Suggested Itinerary for a 2-day 1-night trip to Quang Ninh
Exciting experience at Sun World Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
To make your Quang Ninh 2 day 1 night tour truly complete and memorable, you should arrange a reasonable time between sightseeing, resting, and culinary experiences. Here is a detailed suggested itinerary to help you fully explore the beauty of the mining region.
7.1. Day 1: Explore Ha Long Bay – Play at Sun World Ha Long
Exploring Ha Long in 1 day offers an experience combining natural beauty with exciting entertainment games. On the first day, visitors will enjoy the fresh air of Ha Long Bay, admire the majestic scenery, and participate in attractive activities at Sun World Ha Long.
In the morning, start early to make the most of your day. From 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, travel to Ha Long, check in at Bai Chay area. Then, enjoy a delicious fresh seafood lunch at Hong Hanh or Phuong Nam restaurant from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
In the afternoon (1:30 PM – 6:00 PM), join the Ha Long Bay tour, admire Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and experience kayaking amidst the clear blue water. This is an ideal opportunity to take photos and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of the world natural heritage site.
In the evening (6:30 PM – 10:00 PM), you can stroll along Bai Chay beach to watch the sunset, then continue playing at Sun World Ha Long with the Queen Cable Car, Dragon Park, or Zen Garden. End the first day with a grilled seafood dinner at Bai Chay night market, where you can eat while immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the coastal city at night.
7.2. Day 2: Culture – Cuisine – Specialty Shopping
The second day in Quang Ninh promises unique cultural experiences, distinctive cuisine, and opportunities to shop for local specialties. Visitors will enjoy the sunrise on the beach, visit historical sites, savor delicious seafood, and choose meaningful souvenirs to bring back from Ha Long.
Start the morning by watching the beautiful sunrise on the beach from 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM, then enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel or local eateries with beef pho or mantis shrimp noodle soup.
After that, visit the Quang Ninh Museum to learn about the history, minerals, and culture of the mining region. Next, visit Long Tien Pagoda – a sacred ancient pagoda located at the foot of Bai Tho Mountain to pray for peace and take souvenir photos.
For lunch, enjoy a specialty meal with stir-fried sea cucumber, mantis shrimp noodle soup, or grilled stingray at Lang Chai Cuisine. Afterwards, you can buy Ha Long specialties such as squid cake, dried shrimp, and shrimp paste as gifts for your loved ones.
At 3:30 PM, depart for home, concluding the Quang Ninh 2 day 1 night tour with many memorable experiences of nature, culture, and people of the Northeast region.
The Quang Ninh 2 day 1 night tour is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the sea and sky, culture, and distinctive cuisine of the mining region without spending too much time. From the majestic Ha Long Bay, the sacred Ba Vang Pagoda to the attractive local specialties, this journey will surely bring many unforgettable memories. Arrange your itinerary today for the most complete and impressive Quang Ninh 2 day 1 night tour of 2025!
