1. Overview of the location and characteristics of Van Don Quang Ninh
Van Don Quang Ninh is the largest economic zone in Vietnam. (Source: Collected)
In 2025, Van Don Quang Ninh officially affirms its position as the largest economic zone in Vietnam, attracting the attention of the whole country and internationally. Located in the Southeast of Quang Ninh province, Van Don possesses over 600 large and small islands stretching across Bai Tu Long Bay, creating a rich marine and island ecosystem and potential for tourism, logistics, and trade development. The total area of the special zone reaches over 2,170 km², including 584 km² of mainland and 1,586 km² of sea area.
The administrative center is located in Cai Rong town, managing 10 communes including Doan Ket, Ha Long, Minh Chau, Binh Dan, Quan Lan, Dong Xa, Ban Sen, Ngoc Vung, Thang Loi, and Van Yen. Currently, Van Don has a population of about 54,000 people, with an average per capita income of up to 120 million VND/year, significantly higher than the provincial average.
In the period 2020-2025, the total social investment in Van Don reached approximately 92,800 billion VND, with an average annual growth rate of 15%. Many large projects over 1 billion USD, such as resort-entertainment complexes, casinos, and new urban areas, have transformed Van Don into a high-class tourist center, while also elevating the special zone's position on Vietnam's economic map. According to the orientation towards 2030, Van Don will become a multi-sector marine economic center, combined with a green, modern, and internationally standardized urban area.
The strategic location near the Chinese border facilitates Van Don in international trade activities, logistics, aquaculture development, and services. As one of Vietnam's three new-generation economic zones, Van Don enjoys preferential investment policies, promoting the digital economy and the development of modern financial services, becoming a strong growth driver for the northern coastal and island region.
2. How to get to Van Don Quang Ninh in 2025
Easy travel to Van Don Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Traveling to Van Don Quang Ninh in 2025 becomes easy and convenient thanks to a modern highway system, an international airport, and many transportation options from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other provinces. Once in Van Don, tourists can flexibly move between islands and attractions by high-speed ferry, speedboat, or taxi, ensuring a complete and safe exploration journey.
2.1. Traveling from Hanoi to Van Don Quang Ninh
Currently, traveling from Hanoi to Van Don Quang Ninh is quick and convenient thanks to the Ha Long – Van Don expressway, shortening the 180 km distance to just 2.5 – 3 hours.
Standard bus tickets range from approximately 220,000 – 280,000 VND/trip, while premium limousine buses cost 250,000 – 300,000 VND/trip. Many services even offer door-to-door pick-up for individual travelers or groups. To ensure your itinerary, especially during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to book tickets online or through reputable agents. Another convenience is that some bus routes stop at Van Don Airport, facilitating easy connections with other modes of transport.
2.2. From Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces to Van Don Quang Ninh
Van Don International Airport (VDO) is the main gateway for tourists from the South and Central regions. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways operate frequent flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don, taking only about 2 hours of flight time. Average ticket prices range from 1,800,000 – 2,600,000 VND/trip, depending on the time and ticket class. Booking tickets 2 – 3 weeks in advance usually helps save 15 – 20% of the cost.
Van Don Airport is modern with a spacious international terminal and full amenities, making it easy to travel to the city center by taxi, bus, or hired car. Travelers from Central Vietnam like Da Nang or Nha Trang can fly with a layover in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City; some direct flights are opened during peak holiday and tourist seasons.
2.3. How to travel within Van Don Quang Ninh between islands and tourist attractions
Exploring islands in Van Don such as Quan Lan, Minh Chau, and Ngoc Vung is convenient thanks to modern high-speed ferries. From Cai Rong Port, the travel time is about 45 – 60 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from 120,000 – 250,000 VND/trip depending on the type of ferry and distance. Ferries operate continuously from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with departures every 1 – 2 hours depending on the season.
In addition to high-speed ferries, private speedboat rental services are increasingly chosen by tour groups and families due to their flexibility. Costs start from 1,200,000 VND/trip, and speedboats are equipped with life jackets, accompanied by experienced captains and guides.
For a smooth trip, tourists should book tickets in advance during peak season and check schedules at the port or reputable service websites. Please note that local authorities strictly prohibit plastic waste discharge into the sea, so comply with environmental protection regulations to preserve the natural beauty of Van Don islands.
3. Unmissable Experiences in Van Don Quang Ninh
Many interesting tourist experiences in Van Don Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Van Don Quang Ninh offers a diverse tourist journey, from the pristine natural landscapes of islands and bays to the most modern resort and entertainment projects. At the same time, this land also attracts tourists with its unique cultural values, festivals, and historical sites, creating a complete experience for every visit.
3.1. Visiting Bai Tu Long Bay and famous islands
Bai Tu Long Bay, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, is a prominent tourist highlight of Van Don Quang Ninh . The bay boasts clear blue waters, fine white sand beaches, and a diverse marine ecosystem, offering a pristine and captivating natural space. Visitors can kayak through natural limestone caves or experience a traditional cruise to fully enjoy the bay's beauty.
Quan Lan Island stands out with its long stretches of white sand, ideal for relaxing cycling and walking activities. The beach retains its natural beauty, complemented by high-end homestay systems and the Quan Lan communal house, which preserves many cultural and historical values associated with the lives of fishermen.
Minh Chau impresses with the cleanest beach in Van Don and vast primeval cajeput forests, making it an ideal spot for camping, team building, or outdoor activities. Ngoc Vung offers a peaceful beauty, combined with ancient sea defense relics, while Thang Loi is the perfect choice for tourists seeking tranquility and high-class resort services amidst nature.
3.2. Exploring outstanding constructions and projects: Casino, complex, high-class services
Van Don Quang Ninh presents a modern face thanks to large resort and entertainment projects. A high-class complex invested with over 2 billion USD and the Monbay complex of nearly 1 billion USD include an international casino, 5-star hotels, luxury villas, convention centers, and vibrant commercial areas.
The casino is designed to Las Vegas standards, serving domestic and international guests with state-of-the-art security systems and professional management teams. Coastal villas integrate butler services, spas, and high-class restaurants, offering a premium resort experience.
The international convention center has a capacity of 2,000 delegates, equipped with modern sound and lighting systems. Duty-free shopping areas, luxurious restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, and water sports complete the international 5-star entertainment service chain, fully meeting the diverse needs for relaxation and experiences of all tourists.
3.3. Culture, festivals, historical sites in Van Don Quang Ninh
The ancient Van Don Port, established in the 12th century, is an important historical site that was once a bustling commercial port with neighboring countries. The Quan Lan communal house, along with ancient temples and pagodas, preserves the distinct spiritual cultural characteristics of the northeastern coastal region.
The Quan Lan Festival, held in the 6th lunar month, is a major cultural event attracting a large number of tourists and local residents. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in traditional ceremonies, folk games, watch spectacular boat races, and immerse themselves in the vibrant festival atmosphere.
Folk cultural activities such as Quan Ho singing, water puppetry, net weaving, and traditional fish sauce making are regularly organized. Tourists can also try making crab cakes, enjoy lotus tea, and listen to legends associated with the land of the dragon ascending to the sky. These experiences help visitors gain a deep understanding of the rich spiritual life of the residents of Van Don Quang Ninh .
4. Special culinary delights in Van Don Quang Ninh to try
Enjoy seafood in Van Don Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Van Don Quang Ninh is not only famous for its pristine beaches but also attracts tourists with its fresh seafood cuisine, rich in coastal flavors. From renowned seafood dishes to vibrant seaside dining spaces, this land promises an unforgettable culinary experience for all visitors.
4.1. Top renowned seafood dishes in Van Don Quang Ninh
Van Don Quang Ninh is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood, carrying the characteristic flavor of the sea.
The sea cucumber here has a naturally sweet taste and aroma; steamed with ginger and lime leaves, it retains its freshness, while stir-fried with tamarind offers a novel culinary experience.
Salty-fried sea worms are often served with a dipping sauce of ginger, garlic, and chili, a signature dish of the coastal region.
Grilled sea bugs, when cooked over charcoal, release an enticing aroma, served with grilled rice paper and fresh herbs for an unforgettable flavor.
Stir-fried sea crabs with lemongrass and chili retain their natural crispness while being fragrant with lemongrass.
In addition, blue crabs, bloody clams, and rock oysters are also prepared in various ways, suitable for all tastes.
4.2. Culinary Pho, seafood markets, beautiful seaside dining spaces
Cai Rong Market opens at 4:30 AM, supplying the largest amount of seafood in Van Don Quang Ninh. Visitors can buy fresh seafood or have it cooked on-site for prices ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 VND per dish. Experienced chefs will advise on the most suitable cooking methods for each type of seafood.
Along the coastal road from Cai Rong to Quan Lan, many seafood restaurants offer open spaces with direct sea views, creating a sense of spaciousness and relaxation. These restaurants typically operate from 5 PM to 11 PM, being most lively on weekends or holidays.
The ideal beach tourism season lasts from the 5th to the 10th lunar month. During this time, visitors can enjoy cuisine while soaking in the vibrant sea atmosphere with live music, colorful lanterns, and the sound of waves. Some restaurants even organize traditional folk music performances, making the Van Don cultural experience more lively and memorable.
5. Suggested 3D2N Van Don Travel Itinerary
Enjoying at Sun World Ha Long when visiting Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
The Van Don 3-day 2-night travel itinerary offers an experience that combines exploring pristine nature with enjoying unique coastal cuisine. From Minh Chau, Quan Lan, Ngoc Vung islands to the ancient Van Don port, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the blue sea, white sand, and learn about the unique culture and history of this land.
Day 1: Departing from Hanoi at 6:30 AM, you will arrive in Van Don Quang Ninh around 10 AM. After checking into your hotel or resort in Cai Rong, enjoy lunch with fresh seafood dishes. In the afternoon, travel to Minh Chau island to swim, stroll on the fine white sand, and watch the romantic sunset. In the evening, return to Cai Rong, enjoy seafood at famous beachfront restaurants, and savor the relaxing atmosphere with the sound of waves.
Day 2: Spend the whole day exploring Quan Lan island, starting with a speedboat trip at 8 AM. Visit the ancient Quan Lan communal house, learn about the local fishermen's culture, and experience the pristine beaches. Enjoy famous specialties such as grilled razor clams and mantis shrimp at local eateries. In the afternoon, move to Ngoc Vung island, visit the ancient coastal defense relic, take photos, and admire the beautiful sunset over the bay. Conclude the day with a street food experience in Cai Rong, relax, and spend the night at your accommodation.
Day 3: In the morning, visit the ancient Van Don port, learn about the history of the trading port and the lives of fishermen in the past. Before checking out, visitors can buy Van Don specialties such as dried fish, shrimp floss, and fermented shrimp paste at Cai Rong market. If time permits, you can combine it with a visit to Sun World Ha Long with its exciting games when returning to Ha Long.
6. Useful tips when visiting Van Don Quang Ninh in 2025
Comply with environmental protection regulations when visiting Van Don Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
When exploring Van Don Quang Ninh in 2025, visitors can not only enjoy the blue sea and pristine islands but also need to pay attention to environmental protection rules and prepare suitable luggage. Useful tips on transportation, safety, and service selection will help make the trip smooth, safe, and memorable.
Van Don Quang Ninh is strictly implementing a policy to limit single-use plastics on islands and beaches. Visitors should prepare cloth bags, reusable food containers, and personal water bottles to contribute to environmental protection. Local shops and restaurants also prioritize environmentally friendly products while actively promoting marine and island conservation.
When traveling by speedboat or ferry, you need to prepare carefully for a smooth journey: book tickets at least one day in advance, bring identification documents, and arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure.
When buying seafood at the market, check the origin, quality, and listed prices carefully.
Complying with regulations at tourist attractions will help preserve the precious landscape and marine environment of Van Don Quang Ninh, while also providing a safe and sustainable tourism experience.
If you are looking for a journey with both blue seas, white sand, and rich Northeastern cultural identity, then Van Don Quang Ninh is an unmissable destination. With its beautiful island system, fresh seafood, and modern resorts, it offers a complete experience between nature and people. Plan your trip in 2025 to fully appreciate the charm of Van Don Quang Ninh – a tourist paradise that is increasingly winning the hearts of visitors.
