1. Why choose Ha Long Bay for Tet holiday?
1.1. Ha Long Bay Weather during Tet
The climate in Ha Long Bay during the 2026 Lunar New Year (Tet) offers the most ideal conditions of the year for tourists to explore the heritage bay. The air is gently cool, dry, and filled with spring sunshine, creating a fresh atmosphere, very suitable for outdoor activities such as cruising, mountain climbing, or swimming. The temperature is around 19-22°C, enough to move around without worrying about the cold affecting the trip.
Compared to other times of the year, traveling to Ha Long Bay during Tet offers many advantages due to low rainfall. Unlike the hot summer or windy year-end, the Tet weather brings out a prominent jade-green water color, perfect for capturing beautiful photos and enjoying panoramic views of the bay from above. The weather forecast for 2026 also indicates quite stable weather with many consecutive sunny days.
The climate in Ha Long during the 2026 Lunar New Year offers the most ideal conditions of the year for tourists to explore the heritage bay. (Source: Collected)
1.2. Festival atmosphere and early spring culture in Ha Long
The space of Ha Long tourism during Tet becomes more special thanks to cultural activities imbued with spring identity taking place throughout the heritage region. Tourists can participate in local traditional festivals, offer incense at the beginning of the year at sacred pagodas such as Long Tien Pagoda, Cua Ong Temple, and join locals in sending wishes for peace and prosperity for the new year.
The spiritual culture in Ha Long creates a blend of natural scenery and traditional beliefs. The pagodas along the bay are not only places to send wishes for good luck but also beautiful sightseeing spots, combining sightseeing with spiritual practice. The Tet atmosphere of gathering and reunion characteristic of Ha Long contributes to spreading positive energy, helping everyone start the new year with a peaceful and hopeful mindset.
2. Guide to traveling to Ha Long during Tet
2.1. From Hanoi: Buses, Trains, Limousines during Tet
From Hanoi to Ha Long during Tet, tourists can easily choose a means of transport suitable for their personal itinerary. Limousines are chosen by many for their comfort and convenience, with a travel time of about 2.5 hours, departing from stations like My Dinh, Long Bien; with departures every 30 minutes. Ticket prices range from 150,000-200,000 VND/person, a slight increase of 20-30% compared to normal days due to Tet holiday demand.
The train departing from Hanoi Station to Ha Long Station is a budget-friendly option with prices ranging from 80,000-120,000 VND depending on the seat type, taking about 3 hours. During Tet, it is advisable to book tickets at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure seat availability. Additionally, sleeper buses operate overnight, suitable for those who want to optimize travel time and save costs.
From Hanoi to Ha Long during Tet, tourists can easily choose transportation suitable for their personal itinerary. (Source: Quang Ninh Newspaper)
2.2. From Ho Chi Minh City and distant provinces
Tourists from Ho Chi Minh City often prefer to choose all-inclusive tours that include round-trip Tan Son Nhat - Noi Bai flight tickets when traveling to Ha Long during Tet . Early morning flights from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM help save time, followed by direct shuttle service from Noi Bai airport to Ha Long in about 2.5 hours. Flight ticket prices during Tet range from 2.5-4 million VND round-trip depending on the booking time.
For distant provinces like Da Nang, Nha Trang, tourists can fly to Hanoi and then take a bus or choose an all-inclusive tour to avoid unexpected costs. Some airlines offer discounts of 15-25% if tickets are booked 45 days in advance.
2.3. Moving around Ha Long city during Tet
The transportation system within Ha Long city during Tet operates at high frequency to serve the significantly increased number of tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing services operate 24/7 with prices increasing slightly by 20-50% compared to normal days, with fares from the city center to Bai Chay ranging from 80,000-120,000 VND. Tourist buses connect popular attractions such as Tuan Chau Port, Sun World, and Bai Chay with prices from 20,000-30,000 VND per trip.
Tourist electric vehicles are a novel way to explore the coastal area, operating from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, priced at 50,000 VND per person for a 5 km route. Bicycle and motorbike rental services are also very popular here, costing 100,000-200,000 VND per day, suitable for those who prefer to travel freely and experience.
3. Top Ha Long tourist destinations not to be missed during Tet
3.1. Ha Long Bay cruise
Exploring Ha Long Bay by cruise departing from Tuan Chau International Tourist Port is always an attractive option for tourists. The traditional cruise route leads to the uniquely shaped Dog Stone (Hon Cho Da), the prominent Fighting Cocks Islet (Hon Ga Choi) which is a symbol of the bay, and the Splendid Grotto (Hang Sung Sot) containing a magical system of stalactites formed over millions of years.
Thien Cung Cave and Titop Island are notable stops, where you can explore the mysterious underground world while enjoying the clear blue sea water. A series of spots like Hon Trong Mai, Dinh Lu Huong, Ba Hang, and Hang Luon offer diverse experiences from sightseeing, kayaking to taking souvenir photos. A seafood buffet lunch with local specialties on the cruise, along with the moment of watching the sunset on the water, will leave an unforgettable impression.
Exploring Ha Long Bay by cruise departing from Tuan Chau International Tourist Port is always an attractive choice for tourists. (Source: Collection)
3.2. Bai Chay
Bai Chay impresses with its long stretch of fine golden sand and clear blue sea, making it an ideal choice for those who want to swim when traveling to Ha Long during Tet. Located right in the city center, this beach is convenient for various entertainment activities such as swimming, parasailing, jet skiing, or beach volleyball. The surrounding area has many hotels and restaurants catering to diverse needs.
During Tet, Bai Chay becomes vibrant with many outdoor activities such as folk games, traditional art performances, and music programs by the sea. Young children can participate in activities like building sandcastles and playing with water balloons, while adults can relax with massage services and enjoy grilled seafood right on the beach.
3.3. Explore Titop Island and Bai Tho Peak
Titop Island is named after the Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov, and it is a suitable destination for those who want a gentle trek to welcome the new year. The trail leads to the island's summit for a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay with thousands of limestone karsts amidst the jade-green sea.
Bai Tho Peak on the island features a natural rock with an ancient poem inscribed, praising the beauty of the bay, making it an interesting check-in spot combining natural scenery and cultural depth. The beach at the foot of the island has white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and coral viewing. The panoramic view from Titop's summit is best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon when the light creates a shimmering effect on the bay's surface.
3.4. Cua Van Fishing Village
Cua Van Fishing Village, located deep within Ha Long Bay, preserves the original maritime culture of Quang Ninh fishermen through generations. Here, tourists can experience fishing with locals, learn to use traditional fishing tools, and understand the rhythm of life on the bay. Rowing a bamboo boat through narrow mountain passes creates an exciting sense of adventure.
Community activities in the fishing village become lively at the beginning of the year with rituals for good luck and lantern floating ceremonies on the water. Local fishermen often tell folk tales about the bay and guide visitors on how to prepare fresh seafood in traditional styles. The experience of enjoying a meal on a floating basket amidst the blue water is a particularly unforgettable experience when traveling to Ha Long during Tet.
Cua Van fishing village is located deep in Ha Long Bay, preserving the original marine cultural identity of Quang Ninh fishermen through generations. (Source: Collected)
3.5. Sun World Ha Long
Sun World Ha Long is a large-scale entertainment complex in the Northern region, offering a series of thrill games and many activities suitable for all ages. Flying Dragon Speed, Raging Rhinoceros, Wheel of Death… are exciting experiences. The Kids Paradise play area is exclusively for children with an inflatable castle, mini roller coaster, and a completely safe colorful ball pit.
During Tet, Sun World Ha Long organizes special programs including art performances, fireworks, and attractive interactive activities. The food court within the park serves a variety of dishes from local specialties to international cuisine. The modern cable car connects different areas within the park, allowing visitors to admire Ha Long Bay from above.
Tet at Sun World Ha Long is a journey to experience traditional festive atmosphere combined with unique entertainment and recreation. The series of activities “Enjoy the Festival – Savor the Festival – Play the Festival” takes place from the 1st to the 5th day of Tet, creating a lively space with lion dances to welcome spring, lucky money for the new year, calligraphy from a master, Dong Ho painting workshops, and banh chung wrapping. Visitors can also enjoy Tet mini art shows, magic performances, hat xam, and participate in folk games, creating a complete spring for the whole family.
Modern cable cars connect areas within the park, allowing visitors to admire Ha Long Bay from above.
3.6. Visiting sacred temples and pagodas in Ha Long
Ba Vang Pagoda is located on Thanh Dang Mountain, the largest pagoda in the area with characteristic Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. Visitors can climb stone steps or take a cable car to reach the pagoda, which enshrines the Three Jewels of Buddhism and sacred Bodhisattvas. The tranquil space overlooking the vast sea creates a deep sense of peace. Offering incense and picking lucky branches at the beginning of the year here is a way to pray for peace and prosperity for the whole family.
Cai Bau Pagoda, Long Tien Pagoda, and Cua Ong Temple are also essential spiritual destinations for a Ha Long travel itinerary during Tet. The pagodas are open to visitors from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free entry, and visitors can contribute donations as they wish. On the morning of the first day of Tet, peace-praying ceremonies are often held at the pagodas, attended by many Buddhists and visitors from all directions.
4. Suggested Itinerary for Ha Long Travel during Tet
4.1. 2D1N Itinerary: Spring tour by cruise – spiritual check-in
Day 1 begins when the car picks up guests at Noi Bai Airport at 8:00 AM, traveling to Ha Long for 2.5 hours with a rest stop in Chi Linh. Arriving at Tuan Chau Harbor at 11:30 AM, guests board a luxury cruise, visiting the uniquely shaped Dog Stone Islet and the symbolic Fighting Cocks Islet of the bay. After a sumptuous seafood buffet, the journey continues with the famous Sung Sot Cave, containing unique stalactites, and Luon Cave, where visitors can kayak to explore small mountain passes.
The highlight of the day is conquering Titop Island with 400 stone steps leading to the summit, offering a panoramic view of the bay from a height of 80 meters. The afternoon is for relaxing with local specialty tea and cakes while watching the vibrant sunset over the bay. In the evening, stay at a 3-star hotel in the city center, with free time to explore street food or enjoy a relaxing massage.
On Day 2, guests experience a spiritual atmosphere with a visit to Ba Vang Pagoda on Cai Bau Mountain, offering incense for peace at the beginning of the year. Afterwards, enjoy activities at Bai Chay Beach with sea activities, water sports, and shopping for specialties like squid cake, fish sauce, and dried seaweed at Ha Long Market. The tour concludes at 3:00 PM, and the group returns to Hanoi.
4.2. 3N2Đ Itinerary combining Sun World and local experiences
Day 1 kicks off the Ha Long travel itinerary during Tet by exploring Sun World Ha Long from 9:00 AM. Thrill rides like the Dragon Coaster, Sky Wheel, and the Kids Paradise children's play area offer many exciting experiences. Lunch is at the diverse food court, offering everything from Asian to European dishes. The afternoon continues with slide rides and scenic views via cable car. Dinner is enjoyed with seafood by the coast in Bai Chay.
Day 2, board a cruise to visit the bay, stopping at Hon Trong Mai (Kissing Rocks) associated with a touching legend, and exploring the brilliantly beautiful Thien Cung Cave with its stalactite system. Notably, at Cua Van fishing village, visitors can try their hand at fishing and learn to cook traditional seafood dishes with the fishermen. The evening is free to explore the coastal night market and enjoy street food such as shrimp cakes, clam sweet soup, and boiled snails.
Day 3 is dedicated to conquering Poem Mountain Peak or Titop Island early in the morning to admire the sunrise over the bay. Afterwards, visit Cai Bau Pagoda to offer incense and pick lucky branches for the new spring. The tour concludes with a specialty lunch before departing for the original destination at 2:00 PM.
5. Must-try Specialty Cuisine when traveling to Ha Long during Tet
5.1. Unmissable Tet specialties
Ha Long squid cake is made from fresh squid caught in the bay, pounded finely then grilled into chewy, fragrant, and springy pieces. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also symbolizes luck and prosperity when enjoyed with family during the New Year. Sea sandworm is a specialty found only in Ha Long Bay, a type of sea worm living in the coastal sand, which can be grilled, deep-fried, or cooked in soup, offering a unique rich flavor.
Cat Ba sea sam, known as "sea ginseng," is rich in nutritional value and is often stewed with chicken or cooked into porridge to boost health at the beginning of the year. Ruou Nep Than (Black Glutinous Rice Wine) is a specialty of Quang Ninh with a natural black color and a light sweetness, enjoyed by locals on holidays and festivals to pray for good luck. Fresh seafood such as soft-shell turtles, lobsters, and groupers are often prepared directly on the cruise or at seaside restaurants, bringing a distinctive flavor to reunion meals.
Cat Ba horseshoe crab is nicknamed "sea ginseng", rich in nutritional value. (Source: Collected)
5.2. Restaurants/Dining Services Operating Throughout Tet
The Bai Chay area gathers many famous seafood restaurants such as Hong Hanh, Can Cu, Thuy Duong, operating throughout the Tet holiday with diverse menus, meeting tourists' demand for fresh and delicious seafood. Ha Long Night Market opens in the evening and is a familiar stop to experience street food with signature dishes like shrimp cakes, clam sweet soup, crab spring rolls, or boiled snails, offering a bustling atmosphere and easy choices. The market by the port is also favored by many for the ability to buy fresh seafood and have it cooked immediately by nearby eateries, which is very convenient for large groups.
Ha Long tourism during Tet is also attractive with seafood buffets on cruises, where tourists can enjoy delicious food while admiring the bay scenery at night. For savings and convenience, many tourists opt for tour packages that include dining and sightseeing, making the journey more complete. Some restaurants also offer early booking discounts, providing additional benefits and a comfortable dining experience in the early days of the year.
6. Tour Prices, Hotel Rooms, and Promotions for Ha Long During Tet
6.1. All-inclusive Tour Prices for Ha Long Tourism During Tet
A 2-day, 1-night tour departing from Ho Chi Minh City costs VND 4,999,000/person, including round-trip airfare, shuttle service, 3-star hotel, 4-star cruise, and meals according to the itinerary. Departure dates on the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th of Tet 2026 are suitable for families with young children, offering attentive care services with no extra costs. Tours from Hanoi are priced at a promotional VND 2,199,000/person for a 2-day, 1-night itinerary, without flight costs but still ensuring a full experience.
Reputable brands such as INTOUR, Saigontourist, and Vietravel offer special promotional packages, along with flexible cancellation policies and travel insurance. A 3-day, 2-night tour combined with Sun World costs VND 3,299,000 from Hanoi, including Sun World entrance tickets and many attractive experiences. Booking 30 days in advance receives an additional 5-10% discount plus a special gift.
6.2. Hotel and Homestay Room Prices in the Central Area and Bai Chay
3-star hotels in central Ha Long like Royal Lotus and Halong Plaza are priced between VND 1,200,000-1,800,000/night for a double room during Tet, including breakfast buffet and free wifi. The location is convenient, a 5-minute walk from Bai Chay, close to famous dining spots. The Bai Chay area features 4-5 star resorts like Novotel and Wyndham, priced at VND 2,500,000-4,500,000/night, with direct sea views and full premium amenities.
Seaside homestays and guesthouses are a budget-friendly option priced at VND 400,000-800,000/night, suitable for groups of young friends or families looking to optimize costs. However, during Tet, rooms should be booked at least 45 days in advance due to high occupancy rates. Many hotels offer a 'book 3 nights, get 1 night free' program or complimentary airport shuttle service.
6.3. Offers and Promotions When Booking Tours/Rooms in Ha Long During Tet
Tet tour discounts of up to 45% apply to bookings made before December 15th, with the biggest discounts on flight-car-cruise combos. Ha Long tourism during Tet becomes even more attractive with New Year's lucky money offers such as complimentary seafood dinners, spa vouchers, or free additional sightseeing tours. Some travel companies also offer 0% interest installment plans for tours over VND 5 million, allowing tourists to manage their spending.
Customers should look for deals on official websites, travel agency fan pages, or mobile apps featuring attractive flash sale programs. Family combos for 2 adults and 2 children usually get a 25% discount on the total bill, plus gifts for children. Groups of 10 or more people receive one free spot and a private tour guide.
7. Useful Tips and Experiences for Traveling to Ha Long During Tet
7.1. Packing, Clothing, and Health Preparation for Spring Travel
When traveling to Ha Long during Tet, prepare appropriate clothing for various activities from cruising, trekking, to visiting pagodas. A light jacket or cardigan should be brought for early mornings and evenings when temperatures drop to 15-18°C. Non-slip athletic shoes are optimal for climbing Titop Mountain or visiting caves, while sandals are suitable for boarding and disembarking cruises and entering pagodas. Don't forget swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from the spring sun and sea breeze.
To ensure good health for the trip, engage in light exercise before traveling to be ready for outdoor activities. Remember to bring necessary personal medications, especially motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. Other items such as a waterproof camera, power bank, and waterproof bag will help protect electronic devices when participating in sea activities.
When traveling to Ha Long Bay during Tet, it is necessary to prepare suitable attire for various activities ranging from cruising, trekking to visiting pagodas. (Source: Collected)
7.2. Notes when participating in festivals and visiting pagodas at the beginning of the year
When visiting pagodas during a Ha Long Bay trip during Tet, visitors should wear modest attire, including sleeved shirts, long pants, and remove shoes before entering the main hall. The morning from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM is the ideal time with fresh air, a moderate number of people, and the opportunity to attend New Year's peace-praying rituals. The incense offering process includes washing hands thoroughly, lighting incense with sincerity, bowing three times before placing the incense in the censer.
The custom of picking New Year's fortune buds usually involves taking green young shoots from Bodhi trees or apricot trees in the pagoda yard, symbolizing luck and prosperity. Contributing to the donation box is a way to show sincerity, with the amount depending on each person's generosity. It is advisable to turn off the flash when taking photos inside the main hall and maintain a quiet atmosphere to avoid disturbing the monks chanting.
7.3. Tips for booking tickets, choosing travel times, and beautiful check-in spots during Tet
Booking a Ha Long Bay tour during Tet should be done 45-60 days in advance to receive promotions and secure spots, especially for tours departing from Ho Chi Minh City which often sell out quickly. Compare prices from reputable companies such as Saigontourist, Vietravel, and TST Tourist to find a suitable option within your budget. Departing early in the morning between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM will help you maximize sightseeing time and avoid peak traffic.
The ideal time for photography at Hon Ga Choi (Fighting Cocks Islet) is from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM when the natural light is beautiful. At Titop Peak, it is recommended to go during sunset from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM for a spectacular panoramic view. To avoid long waits, choose tours on the 3rd or 5th day of Tet instead of the 2nd or 4th day when the number of local tourists increases significantly. Bring a selfie stick and prioritize low-angle shots to capture impressive photos with the majestic Ha Long Bay as the backdrop.
Traveling to Ha Long Bay during Tet offers a perfect experience combining the magnificent natural beauty with a warm spring travel atmosphere. From mysterious caves, traditional fishing villages to sacred pagodas, every moment creates a journey to start the new year full of positive energy. Book your tour today to explore the world heritage bay and create memorable moments with family and friends during the Lunar New Year!
