1. Why choose Quang Ninh for your Tet 2026 trip?
Quang Ninh during the early days of the new year creates a vibrant and colorful scene, a convergence of magnificent nature and profound spiritual cultural values. Tet holidays in Quang Ninh are marked by the traditional Yen Tu festival chain, New Year's Eve activities such as countdown programs, and solemn palanquin processions from Yen Tu pagoda. The festive atmosphere spreads throughout the Ha Long Bay area with outdoor art performances and special cultural events celebrating the new year.
The most captivating aspect of exploring Quang Ninh during Tet 2026 is the richness of experiences it offers. Visitors can start their day with a sunrise moment on a cruise amidst the UNESCO-recognized heritage Ha Long Bay, followed by a pilgrimage to sacred pagodas like Yen Tu and Ba Vang to send wishes for a peaceful year. In the afternoon, the whole family can relax at the Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh hot spring resorts with Japanese style. Or enjoy the modern entertainment space at Sun World Ha Long.
The synchronized investment in tourism infrastructure brings convenience to all visitors. Transportation is easily connected, taking only about 3 hours to travel from Hanoi to Quang Ninh. Accommodation and culinary services meet international standards, catering to the needs of both small families and large tour groups. The Tet weather is usually dry and cool with temperatures ranging from 15 - 20°C, very suitable for outdoor activities.
The most attractive point when exploring Quang Ninh during Tet 2026 is the richness of experiences that this place offers. (Source: Collected)
2. Where to go in Quang Ninh for Tet 2026? Top outstanding destinations
2.1. Ha Long Bay: Celebrate spring at a world wonder
During Tet, Ha Long Bay takes on a mystical beauty as a light mist covers thousands of limestone islands bobbing amidst jade-green waters. Visitors can choose to experience a cruise, visit famous caves such as Thien Cung Cave with its shimmering stalactites, or the vast Sung Sot Cave with its two magnificent main chambers. Kayaking through Luon Cave brings a sense of closeness to nature as you move through a 60m natural tunnel amidst limestone mountains.
A special feature of Quang Ninh tourism in Tet 2026 also lies in the artistic fireworks displays at Bai Chay Bridge. The light festival combined with laser effects and background music creates a brilliant scene reflected on the bay's waters. At the culinary market by the bay, visitors can enjoy local specialties such as Ha Long squid cakes, crab spring rolls, or freshly prepared grilled seafood dishes.
To fully appreciate the beauty of Ha Long Bay, many choose to spend the night on a 5-star cruise with luxurious cabins and onboard spa services. The experience of squid fishing at night under the moonlight and enjoying breakfast amidst the magnificent scenery will be unforgettable impressions of the early spring trip.
Ha Long Bay during Tet holidays dons a mystical appearance as a light mist covers thousands of limestone islands bobbing amidst jade-green waters. (Source: Compilation)
2.2. Bai Chay and Sun World Ha Long
Bai Chay in the early days of the year is filled with festive energy along the coastal streets. The 2 km long beach area with fine white sand is an ideal place for families to participate in team games, folk activities, and sea sports. The mild winter temperatures make outdoor activities pleasant, without worrying about harsh sun.
Sun World Ha Long, located right in the center of Bai Chay, offers a diverse entertainment space with a system of thrilling games and many attractive artistic performances. The indoor water park with the modern Queen Cable Car will take visitors to admire the panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from above. Typhoon children's play area is a safe and ideal choice for small families.
Bai Chay Old Quarter and Night Market is bustling with hundreds of stalls, from souvenirs, pearl jewelry to characteristic street food. You can taste hot shrimp and crab dumplings (banh goi tom cua), caramel flan, or delicious sweet soups (che) in the early spring weather. The music and continuous artistic performances create a cheerful atmosphere that lasts until late at night.
Sun World Ha Long offers a diverse entertainment space with a system of adventurous games and many attractive artistic performances.
2.3. Tuan Chau Resort
Tuan Chau Island impresses during Tet with a series of rich entertainment activities and a bustling seaside festival atmosphere. Dolphin and seal shows are held three times daily at the 3,000-seat water arena. The 4D water music show, combining unique lighting and surround sound, brings unforgettable emotions to viewers.
Tuan Chau Beach, with its clear blue water and white sand, is an ideal destination for family activities. Children enjoy sandcastle building, beach volleyball, or experiencing safe water biking under the guidance of a professional team. When the weather is unfavorable, the indoor playground with air conditioning and many electronic games remains an attractive option.
The cuisine at Tuan Chau is highlighted by the international buffet restaurant Ocean Bay, serving over 200 Asian and European dishes, especially with a fresh grilled seafood counter and diverse desserts. Evening buffet prices range from 450,000 to 650,000 VND/adult. Children under 1m are free, and children from 1m - 1.4m receive a 50% discount.
2.4. Yen Tu Pagoda, Ba Vang Pagoda, Cua Ong Temple spiritual tourism at the beginning of the year
Yen Tu becomes a sacred destination during early spring, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The Yen Tu Spring Festival takes place from the 10th day of the first lunar month, lasting for 3 months with many traditional rituals at Truc Lam Zen Monastery along with spiritual cultural activities. Visitors can participate in prayer ceremonies and light incense at the 30m-tall statue of Amitabha Buddha on Yen Tu peak at an altitude of 1,068m.
The modern Yen Tu cable car system facilitates easy access to the mountain peak for visitors. The first cable car route, 2,300m long, takes guests from Hoa Yen station to Mot Mai Pagoda in just 15 minutes, offering panoramic views of the Northeast mountains and forests. The second cable car route continues the journey to Yen Tu peak, where one can admire the entire majestic mountain range.
Ba Vang Pagoda is located at an altitude of 340m on Ba Vang mountain, distinguished by its unique architecture and panoramic views of the vast Cua Luc Bay. Cua Ong Temple, dedicated to Duc Thanh Tran Hung Dao, is built right by the sea, offering a sense of peace with gentle waves year-round. Spiritual tourism in Quang Ninh for Tet 2026 opens opportunities to pray for peace at the beginning of the year in the most sacred places in the North.
Yen Tu becomes a sacred destination during early spring, attracting thousands of pilgrims. (Source: Collected)
2.5. Quang Ninh Museum
Quang Ninh Museum impresses with its unique coal-shaped architecture and is a favorite destination for many young people. The 3-story building is inspired by the shape of coal, a historical symbol of the mining region, with glass facades creating a special reflection effect. The spacious exhibition area introduces the development process of Quang Ninh through precious artifacts and vivid models.
The geology area displays a collection of characteristic fossils, minerals, and models simulating the formation of Ha Long Bay. The ethnic culture room displays traditional costumes and unique rituals of the local ethnic groups. The technology interaction area allows visitors to use virtual reality headsets to explore famous caves. Admission ticket prices are 40,000 VND/adult; students are 20,000 VND/person, and children are 10,000 VND/person.
2.6. Dragon Eye Island and Tra Co
Dragon Eye Island is located about 3 km northeast of Tra Co beach, and visitors can travel by canoe or motorboat in about 15 minutes. The 15-hectare island boasts white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, perfect for families to organize picnics. You can participate in activities such as snorkeling, fishing, or relaxing under the cool green coconut trees.
Tra Co beach is 17 km long, making it one of the longest beaches in Vietnam, offering ample space for beach sports and sunbathing. The coastline is straight with golden sand and gentle waves, very suitable for young children to play. The coastal area has many fresh seafood restaurants with reasonable prices, famous for crab, mantis shrimp – specialties of Tra Co.
The ancient Tra Co Church was built in 1902 in a Gothic style mixed with tropical elements, possessing an ancient appearance with stained glass windows and a 20m high bell tower. This is a National Architectural Art Relic, attracting tourists with its beauty and historical cultural value.
2.7. Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh
Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh offers a health care experience in a strong Japanese style with a natural hot spring system. The spacious resort is designed in traditional Japanese architecture, surrounded by Zen gardens, bamboo bridges, and 17 outdoor onsen pools with temperatures ranging from 38 - 42°C. The water, rich in sulfur and natural minerals, helps relax the body and beautify the skin.
The onsen area is divided separately for men and women, ensuring privacy. Jacuzzi pools with bubble massage systems, cold stone pools help promote blood circulation, along with herbal immersion pools prepared according to traditional Japanese recipes. After bathing in the onsen, visitors can enjoy refreshing matcha green tea and Japanese light snacks. High-class spa services include hot stone massage therapy, facial treatments with natural cosmetics, and morning yoga amidst the green bamboo garden.
Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh offers a Japanese-style health care experience with a natural hot spring system. (Source: Compilation)
3. Attractive festivals and events for Tet 2026 in Quang Ninh
3.1. Light festival and artistic fireworks
New Year's Eve countdown events in 2026 in Quang Ninh take place grandly in many tourist areas. The artistic fireworks display at Bai Chay Bridge starts at 11:45 PM on December 31st, lasting 15 minutes with music performances and brilliant light effects. The surround sound system and large LED screens create a visually stunning feast for numerous tourists.
The 3D water art show uses modern mapping projection technology to recreate the history and culture of Quang Ninh on the water. The drone light show features 300 flying devices simulating images of golden dragons, sailboats, and limestone mountains floating in the sky.
The bayfront space is decorated with thousands of sparkling LED lights and lanterns. The Quang Ninh Tet 2026 event also includes interactive activities such as flashmobs and street art performances. Along with food stalls serving until 2 AM for tourists to fully enjoy the New Year's Eve atmosphere.
3.2. Quang Ninh Culinary Festival
The Quang Ninh Culinary Festival is held at Sun Carnival Square with the participation of over 100 stalls featuring local and international specialties. The fresh seafood area features traditional grilled dishes such as crab with tamarind sauce, grilled mantis shrimp with garlic and chili, and grilled squid with satay, prepared directly by skilled chefs.
The traditional specialty area introduces rich dishes such as crab noodle soup (banh da cua dong), crab noodle soup (bun rieu cua), and handmade Ha Long squid cake according to family recipes. The street food area with grilled rice paper, banh can, and various sweet soups creates a vibrant festival atmosphere.
The cooking competition features famous chefs, and tourists can participate in workshops to learn how to cook specialty dishes. The craft beer area introduces many local and international beers, combined with an acoustic music space, creating a cozy atmosphere for families and friends.
Quang Ninh Food Festival held at Sun Carnival Square. (Source: Quang Ninh Newspaper)
3.3. Dragon boat racing festival, marathon, street art show
The race usually takes place around the morning of January 2nd with routes of 5 km, 10 km and 21 km along the Bai Chay coast, in the city center. This is a New Year's opening sports event, attracting a large number of domestic and international athletes. The running route passes through many beautiful landscapes, creating an opportunity to combine exercise and sightseeing.
The traditional dragon boat racing festival on Cua Luc Bay features 20 boat teams representing local areas, with brightly decorated boats and the sound of drums and gongs creating a vibrant competitive atmosphere. Visitors can rent kayaks or stop by the shore to cheer and take photos to capture the moment.
Many street art programs take place continuously on the main streets of Bai Chay with the participation of music bands, dragon lion dances, and street circus performances. The interactive space allows visitors to participate in folk games, learn drawing, and make traditional handicrafts.
4. Must-try specialties when visiting Quang Ninh for Tet 2026
4.1. Yen Tu bamboo shoots, Ha Long shrimp paste
Yen Tu bamboo shoots are harvested from bamboo forests on the mountains, with a sweet and delicate taste, used to prepare many attractive dishes. Fresh bamboo shoots can be used to cook sour fish soup or stir-fried with pork belly. Dried bamboo shoots processed using traditional methods help preserve them for a long time, suitable as meaningful Tet gifts, priced from 200,000-300,000 VND/kg.
Ha Long shrimp paste is processed from fresh, delicious shrimp from the sea, dried and pan-fried over low heat to achieve a characteristic reddish-orange color. Ha Long shrimp paste retains its characteristic sweetness, is not fishy, and can be used to season soups, eaten with hot rice, or as filling for Tet chung cakes. Packaged in attractive boxes, priced from 150,000-400,000 VND/box depending on weight, suitable as Tet gifts for relatives.
Reputable stores in Bai Chay and Ha Long market sell authentic products with clear identification labels. Visitors should choose to buy from official points of sale to ensure quality and avoid counterfeit goods.
Yen Tu bamboo shoots are harvested from bamboo forests on the mountain, with a delicate sweet taste, used to prepare many attractive dishes. (Source: Collected)
4.2. Bai Chay seafood, Tien Yen 'gat gu' cake
Bai Chay seafood is always fresh thanks to daily catches from clean waters. Ca Mau crab has firm, rich-flavored meat, prepared as tamarind-stirred crab, crab curry, ginger steamed crab, priced from 300,000-600,000 VND/kg depending on the type. Quang Ninh mantis shrimp has a thin shell and sweet meat, usually boiled or grilled with chili salt, priced at 400,000-800,000 VND/kg.
Ben Do clam has a thick shell and fatty meat, suitable for cooking sour soup or steaming with lemongrass. Van Don scallop is fragrant and sweet, usually grilled with scallion oil or stir-fried with butter and garlic. Tourists should buy fresh seafood in the morning at Bai Chay market or enjoy it at seaside restaurants with professional processing services.
Tien Yen 'gat gu' cake is a traditional dish with a thin, crispy outer layer and a sweet mung bean filling inside. The name 'gat gu' is inspired by the cake's shape when eaten, making the eater nod in admiration. The cake is produced by hand, priced at 80,000-120,000 VND/box, suitable as a gift for the elderly and children.
5. Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Quang Ninh during Tet 2026
Day 1: Hanoi – Halong – Explore the bay
Start from Hanoi at 8 AM, travel to Halong for 3 hours, stop for a break along the way. Arrive at Halong tourist pier at 11:30 AM, complete check-in procedures to board the cruise, enjoy a seafood buffet lunch with signature dishes such as tamarind-stirred crab, grilled shrimp, silver-wrapped grilled mackerel. The cruise departs at 1:30 PM, visit Thien Cung Cave with sparkling stalactites, a spacious and impressive cave interior.
Arrive at Titop Island at 3:30 PM, climb 420 stone steps to the summit, admire the panoramic view of Halong Bay from a height of 50 m, then swim or relax on the white sandy beach. The cruise returns at 5 PM, participate in night squid fishing, enjoy dinner under a starry sky. Rest in a fully equipped 4-5 star cruise cabin.
Day 2
Wake up early at 6 AM to watch the sunrise over the bay, join a free Tai Chi class on the deck. Have a light breakfast at 7 AM with pate bread and traditional filter coffee. Visit Sung Sot Cave at 8:30 AM, 10,000 m² in area with two main chambers, artistic lighting system creates a magical atmosphere. Return to the pier at 10 AM, travel to visit Quang Ninh Museum, take photos at the impressive architectural work.
Enjoy lunch at Sun World Ha Long, experience games such as roller coasters, giant Ferris wheels, and children's play areas. Buy specialties at Bai Chay market at 3 PM, board the bus back to Hanoi, expected to arrive at 6:30 PM.
12 PM enjoy lunch at Sun World Ha Long, experience games.
6. Tips and notes when traveling to Quang Ninh during Tet
6.1. Tips for booking accommodation and getting event tickets
Booking hotels and resorts should be done early, ideally 2-3 months in advance to have more choices and preferential prices. 4-5 star hotels in the Bai Chay area have prices around 2,500,000 - 8,000,000 VND/night during Tet, while homestays and 3-star hotels range from 800,000 - 2,000,000 VND/night. It is advisable to compare prices on platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and hotel websites to choose a reasonable price.
Tickets for events and art shows should be booked in advance through official websites or authorized agents. Tickets for dolphin shows at Tuan Chau cost 200,000-300,000 VND/person, and tickets for Sun World Ha Long Park are 700,000 VND/adult. Some events like fireworks countdowns and street art are free, but it is advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Ha Long Bay 2-day 1-night cruise tours should be booked through reputable travel agencies, priced from 2,800,000-6,500,000 VND/person depending on the type and included services. It is advisable to carefully read the tour cancellation and refund policies in case of unfavorable weather.
6.2. Notes on Tet culture and customs in Quang Ninh
When visiting spiritual sites such as Yen Tu, Ba Vang Pagoda, Cua Ong Temple, it is advisable to choose modest attire with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and flat shoes to show respect. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or off-the-shoulder outfits. Colors should favor soft tones like white, beige, and navy blue instead of bright, vibrant red.
Maintain silence within sacred grounds, do not talk or laugh loudly. When lighting incense, follow these steps: wash your hands thoroughly, hold the incense with both hands, bow before and after lighting, and after placing the incense. Do not use flash when taking photos in restricted areas and avoid inappropriate poses within the pagoda.
New Year's Day in Quang Ninh often features many community activities; visitors should queue according to regulations, maintain general hygiene, and not litter.
6.3. Tips for check-ins and beautiful photos
The ideal times for photography at Ha Long Bay are from 6:00-7:30 AM and 5:00-6:30 PM when the natural light is soft, creating warm frames. The best photo spot is the summit of Titop Island with a panoramic view; it is recommended to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. On the cruise ship, the bow and deck areas offer impressive backgrounds.
Quang Ninh Museum, with its unique architecture, offers many beautiful photo angles such as the spiral staircase and the panoramic rooftop. The best time to shoot is from 2 PM to 4 PM, when the light sufficiently illuminates the structure. It is advisable to wear colorful outfits to stand out against the museum's gray backdrop.
Yen Tu Pagoda, with its mountainous scenery, offers the best photo spot at the Amitabha Buddha statue on Yen Tu peak amidst misty clouds. Shooting in the early morning around 7 AM - 9 AM makes it easy to capture misty moments. Attire should be in subtle tones suitable for the spiritual atmosphere.
7. Suggested combination of resort and experience
7.1. Sun World Ha Long
Sun World Ha Long Park is located in the heart of Bai Chay, offering an entertainment ecosystem with over 30 thrilling games and many family activities. Dragon Park features a 40m high roller coaster for a 80 km/h speed experience, and Typhoon Water Park is the largest indoor water park in the North with water slides and wave pools suitable for all ages.
The Queen Cable Car is a modern cable car line connecting the amusement areas; from here, visitors can admire the panoramic view of Ha Long Bay and the city. At the summit, there is a 60m long Skywalk glass bridge, giving the sensation of walking on clouds. Adventure Park, with its artificial climbing wall, zip-line, and rope course, will challenge adventure enthusiasts.
Multimedia shows at Rong Theatre use 4D technology and special effects to recreate the story of Thach Sanh and many ancient Vietnamese tales. The diverse culinary area offers international buffets, street food, and bars serving cocktails and craft beer. The all-inclusive ticket price is 700,000 VND/adult; children under 1.3m receive a 30% discount.
Queen Cable Car is a modern cable car route for tourists to admire the panoramic view of Ha Long Bay.
7.2. Combine visiting Sun World Cat Ba (if going to the island)
Sun World Cat Ba is about 45 minutes from Ha Long by speedboat, a place that combines island resort, pristine nature, and convenient services. The Cat Ba cable car route, 2.2 km long, is the longest sea-crossing cable car route in Vietnam, taking guests to the summit with a panoramic view of Cat Ba, Lan Ha Bay. This is a reasonable choice to fully experience the Sun World ecosystem and explore two famous destinations of Quang Ninh in one trip.
Whether you love spiritual journeys, exploring nature, or seeking vibrant experiences with your family, Quang Ninh always has suitable options for your early year vacation. With its pleasant climate and many unique cultural activities, this place promises to bring fulfilling spring days. If you are wondering where to go in Quang Ninh for Tet 2026, let your upcoming journey be an opportunity to start a new year full of peace and inspiration.
