2 Days in Ha Long Bay
If you are planning to travel to Vietnam, Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Vietnam, is a must-visit destination. It is renowned for its emerald waters, towering limestone karsts, and rich cultural heritage. Spending 2 days in Ha Long Bay allows visitors to experience its breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions, making it an essential part of any Vietnam itinerary. We will show detailed information on how to plan your trip, including transportation options, suggested itineraries, must-visit sites, and practical tips to ensure a memorable and seamless experience.
Why visit Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, featuring over 1,600 islands and islets set against a backdrop of turquoise waters. Recognized by UNESCO for its geological and biological significance, it has also been listed among the top 100 must-visit destinations by Business Insider. The bay’s dramatic karsts, hidden caves, and floating villages offer a unique blend of nature and culture, appealing to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Ha Long Bay.
Discover more reasons why you should visit Ha Long Bay.
A 2-day trip to Ha Long Bay provides enough time to explore its highlights, from scenic cruises to ancient caves and vibrant entertainment options. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this destination offers something for every traveler.
How to get to Ha Long Bay?
Located approximately 170 km from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is accessible via a 3.5-hour journey. Several transportation options are available, catering to different budgets and preferences. Below are the most common ways to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.
By bus
Taking a bus is the most budget-friendly option, with tickets costing between $5 and $10. Buses depart frequently from Hanoi’s My Dinh or Gia Lam stations, offering a glimpse into local life. Operators like Hoang Long bus provide reliable services. However, buses may make multiple stops, and seats are not always reserved. Travelers should book in advance and bring snacks or water for the journey.
By private car
A private car is ideal for a families with a lot of luggage, a group of friends who want to sit comfortably and chat with each other without disturbing anyone else. Prices range from $50 to $100 for a one-way trip, depending on the vehicle type. Booking through a reputable tour operator or platforms like Paradise Travel ensures a smooth experience. This option allows stops at scenic spots midway, but confirm the price upfront to avoid unexpected costs.
Additionally, on Paradise Travel’s Vietnam tour packages, you will always enjoy private car transfers between locations, ensuring you don’t have to worry about planning your itinerary.
By seaplane
For a unique and time-efficient option, Hai Au Aviation offers seaplane transfers from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay. The 45-minute flight includes a 15-minute scenic tour over the bay, showcasing its iconic karsts from above. Priced at approximately $150–$200 per person, this luxury option is popular with those seeking a memorable start to their 2 days in Ha Long Bay. Early booking is recommended due to limited availability.

Hai Au seaplane in Ha Long Bay.
By motorbike
For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike in Hanoi offers a scenic ride along the QL18 route. Rentals cost $10–$20 per day, excluding fuel. This option requires experience, as the road can be busy. Ensure you wear a helmet, check for weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS for navigation.
Best Time to visit Ha Long Bay
Choosing the right time to visit Ha Long Bay is crucial for a pleasant experience. The bay’s weather varies significantly throughout the year, impacting activities like cruising, kayaking, and cave exploration.
- October to April: This is the optimal time to visit, with mild temperatures (15–25°C) and low rainfall. October to November and March to April are particularly pleasant, offering clear skies and comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. These months are ideal for cruises and sightseeing, with good visibility for photography. However, expect larger crowds, especially around holidays like Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year, typically January or February). Book cruises and transportation early to secure availability.
- May to September: This period brings hot, humid weather (25–35°C) and frequent rain, with August and September being the peak of the typhoon season. Heavy rain can disrupt cruises, reduce visibility, and make cave paths slippery. While fewer tourists visit during this time, leading to lower prices, the risk of itinerary changes due to weather is higher. Check weather forecasts and choose flexible cruise operators if traveling in this season.
Festivals and events: Visiting during local festivals can enhance your trip. The Ha Long Carnival (on April or May) features vibrant parades and cultural performances, adding a festive atmosphere to your 2 days in Ha Long Bay. Tet celebrations include traditional activities but may lead to crowded attractions and higher costs.
Our suggestion: For a balance of good weather, activities and fewer crowds, aim for late October or early April. Always check Ha Long Bay weather conditions closer to your travel date, as conditions can vary.

Colorful parade during Ha Long Carnival.
Suggested itinerary for 2 days in Ha Long Bay
With 2 days or 2 nights in Ha Long Bay, you can explore its iconic sites and enjoy a variety of activities. Below are 3 itinerary options to suit different interests: a classic cruise, a cruise combined with entertainment, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Option 1: Two-day cruise in Ha Long Bay
A cruise is the best way to experience Ha Long Bay’s beauty. Most cruises depart from Tuan Chau or Hon Gai harbors and visit key attractions. Budget cruises ($80–$120) offer basic amenities, while luxury options like Paradise Cruises or Bhaya Cruises ($200+) include private cabins and gourmet dining. Organizers offer different routes and you can choose the one that you prefer the most. Here is a list of routes for your cruise on 2 days in Ha Long Bay:
- Route 1 (depart from Tuan Chau Habor): Ha Long Bay – Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) – Titov Island – Bai Tu Long Bay.
- Route 2 (depart from Tuan Chau Habor): Ha Long Bay – Cave of Heavenly Palace (Dong Thien Cung), Cave of Wooden Stakes (Hang Dau Go)
- Route 3 (depart from Got Pier in Hai Phong City): Lan Ha Bay.
You can also choose different cruise packages in Ha Long Bay: day trip, an overnight cruise, and a 2-night cruise. Check out our guide on 7 steps to choose a perfect Ha Long Bay cruise.

Luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay.
Sample itinerary for 2 days in Ha Long Bay:
Day 1:
- Morning: Board the cruise between 8–9 AM. Enjoy a welcome drink and begin sailing through the bay’s limestone karsts. Visit Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) on Bo Hon Island, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. A light jacket is recommended for the cool cave interior.
- Afternoon: Continue to Titov Island, where you can hike to a viewpoint for panoramic bay views or swim at the crescent-shaped beach. Participate in kayaking or bamboo boating to explore nearby floating villages. Lunch is served on board, featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine.
- Evening: Join a cooking class to learn Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, or try squid fishing after dinner. Overnight on the cruise with views of the starlit bay.
Day 2:
- Morning: Start with a Tai Chi session on the deck at sunrise. After breakfast, visit Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter area with pristine landscapes. Explore a fishing village, such as Cua Van, to learn about local life.
- Afternoon: Return to the harbor by noon. Enjoy lunch in Ha Long City before returning to Hanoi.
Option 2: Ha Long Bay cruise + Sun World Halong complex
This itinerary combines a shorter cruise with a visit to Sun World Halong Complex, an entertainment park in Ha Long City, ideal for a family vacation in Vietnam. As the first entertainment complex in Vietnam, Sun World Halong is a small world full of entertainment, relaxation and shopping in the heart of Ha Long City. Here, you will participate in a lot of fun games for all ages, including many exciting and unprecedented ones in Vietnam. There are also many wonderful experiences of Sun World such as the Dragon Park, the Typhoon Water Park, the Sun Wheel,…

The Sun Wheel in Ha Long.
Day 1:
- Morning: Take a 4–6-hour day cruise in Ha Long Bay. Kayak through lagoons or visit a small beach for swimming. Lunch is provided on board.
- Evening: Visit Sun World Halong Complex, featuring Dragon Park with thrilling rides, Typhoon Water Park for water fun, and the Sun Wheel for bay views. Dine at a local restaurant, such as Hong Hanh, for fresh seafood.
Day 2:
- Morning: Join a morning cruise to explore Heavenly Palace Cave (Dong Thien Cung) and Wooden Piles Cave (Hang Dau Go), both known for their stunning formations and historical significance. Return to the port at midday
- Afternoon: Explore Ha Long market for souvenirs or relax at a waterfront café before returning to Hanoi.
Option 3: Off the beaten path exploration
For a quieter experience, you can focus on lesser-known areas near Ha Long Bay, such as Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay or Cat Ba island.
Day 1:
- Morning–Afternoon: Cruise to Lan Ha Bay, located southeast of Ha Long Bay, known for its serene waters and hidden lagoons. Kayak through tunnels or visit Van Boi Island for a secluded beach. Lunch is served on board.
- Evening: Stay overnight on the cruise or in a homestay on Cat Ba Island. Dine at a local restaurant, such as Green Mango, for authentic Vietnamese dishes.

Floating fishing villages in Cat Ba island.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit a floating fishing village, such as Cua Van, to observe local traditions and lifestyles. Guided tours provide insights into the community’s daily routines.
- Afternoon: Explore Bai Tu Long Bay for untouched scenery and fewer tourists. Return to the harbor by noon and head back to Hanoi.
Best places to visit in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is home to several iconic sites that showcase its natural and cultural beauty. Here are the key attractions to include in your 2 days in Ha Long Bay:
Ha Long Bay
The spot is on the list of 100 must-visit destinations at least once in your life, according to Business Insider, an economic and commercial information site. This bay is renowned for its harmonious beauty between water and sky, its invaluable biological and geological values. Ha Long Bay features emerald waters, limestone karsts, and colorful floating villages. A cruise in the bay will be an unforgettable experience during your trip to Vietnam.
Bai Tu Long Bay
This site extends northwest of Ha Long Bay to the Chinese border. This destination will satisfy all tourists, even the most demanding travelers. Bai Tu Long Bay offers similar landscapes with fewer crowds. Traveling to the off-the-beaten-track Bai Tu Long Bay will offer many unique and interesting experiences as well. Its tranquil setting is ideal for kayaking and exploring untouched islands.
Lan Ha Bay
It is located off Cat Ba Island, Southeast of Ha Long Bay. This beautiful bay is the smallest on the whole Ha Long Bay, intended for those who want to escape from the bustling suburb of Cat Ba. Therefore, you should make your decision to visit this stunning place on your 2 days in Ha Long Bay.
Titov Island
About 10 km from the pier, Titov island is a small haven of peace in the beautiful bay of Ha Long maritime. This island offers a short hike to a viewpoint with a breathtaking view of the bay, and has a lovely white crescent-shaped beach. If you desire to admire the view of a large part of the bay and swim in the sublime waters, you should spend time visiting this special isle on 2 days in Ha Long Bay.
Surprises Cave (Hang Sung Sot)
Located on Bo Hon Island, this cave is one of the most beautiful and broad caves in Ha Long Bay. Surprised by its fairy beauty, the first French people who went there named it Surprises cave. Today, this cave attracts many national and international tourists to visit and explore during their visit to Ha Long Bay.

Sung Sot cave in Ha Long Bay.
Heavenly Palace Cave (Hang Thien Cung)
Located near Wooden Piles cave, North of Dau Go Island, the palace is famous for the splendor of its 4 pillars of stalagmites carved by the elements and supporting the “roof of paradise”. From the base to the summit, its pillars seem to represent scenes of life: birds, fish, and scenes of daily life. On the walls, a natural fresco offers the spectacle of a group of fairy singing and dancing. It is one of the largest and most beautiful caves to visit on your 2 days in Ha Long Bay.
Wooden Piles Cave (Hang Dau Go)
This cave was nicknamed Wonders cave by the French in the early 20th century. It is also known as Wooden Tips cave. It has several pillars and stone columns and is home to a wide variety of animal and plant species. With its mysterious beauty, this cavern is one of the most beautiful caves in the country that you cannot miss on your 2 days in Ha Long Bay.
Best things to do for 2 days in Ha Long Bay
A 2-day trip to Ha Long Bay offers a range of activities to suit various interests. Below are the top experiences to consider:
Cruise activities
Each cruise offers a different program, consisting of multiple activities of different types:
- Kayaking: Explore hidden lagoons and caves up close.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes, such as fresh spring rolls.
- Tai Chi: Join a morning session on the deck at dawn for a peaceful start.
- Evening activities: Participate in the squid fishing at night, enjoy a movie on deck, listen to live music or take a refreshing cocktail at the bar.
Exploring Caves and Islands
Visiting caves and islands is a highlight of Ha Long Bay. Wear sturdy shoes for cave exploration, as paths can be uneven. Follow guides’ instructions to protect the natural formations and bring a camera for memorable photos.
Sun World Halong Complex
Located in Ha Long City, Sun World offers entertainment for all ages. Enjoy roller coasters at Dragon Park, water slides at Typhoon Water Park, or panoramic views from the Sun Wheel. Visit in the evening for cooler temperatures and vibrant lights.
Nightlife in Ha Long Bay
For those staying in Ha Long City, you can stroll and discover the seaside at night. The nightlife includes options like Blue Note Bar for live music, Flightless Bird Bar for cocktails, or the night market for street food and souvenirs. A waterfront stroll is a relaxing way to end the day.

Ha Long vibrant nightlife.
Cultural Experiences
Visit a floating fishing village, such as Cua Van, to learn about local traditions and daily life. Guided tours offer insights into the community’s fish farming and cultural practices. Purchasing local crafts supports the village economy.
Best overnight cruise programs on board
There are a variety of choices for your overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay. Here are some of our top 10 Ha Long Bay cruises, noted by our customers and suggested by us to our customers as well during their trip to Northern Vietnam:
Plan your 2 days in Ha Long Bay
A 2-day trip to Ha Long Bay offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations. From cruising through its stunning karsts to discovering ancient caves and enjoying vibrant entertainment, the bay provides a wealth of experiences. Customize your itinerary to match your interests, whether it’s a classic cruise, a family-friendly adventure, or an off-the-beaten-path journey. For a seamless trip, book through trusted travel specialists or platforms like vietnamparadisetravel.com. Start planning today to create lasting memories in Ha Long Bay.
Hopefully, our suggested itinerary will help you make your 2-day trip as enjoyable as possible. Contact us to customize your Vietnam tours, including Ha Long Bay cruises.
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