3 Days in Ha Long Bay
How to spend 3 days in Ha Long Bay? If you are traveling to Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is one of the must-visit destinations that you cannot miss. The World Heritage Site shines bright like a diamond with its emerald water, lovely green rows of coconut trees shading under the sun, rare coral reefs and cool weather with fresh winds that will blow your mind on your 3 days in Ha Long Bay. We will unveil everything you need to plan an unforgettable journey, from transportation and lodging to top attractions, local flavors, and tailored itineraries, ensuring a seamless adventure for all interests.
Why visit Ha Long Bay?
The enchantment of Ha Long Bay begins with its unparalleled natural splendor, where thousands of limestone islands emerge dramatically from the sea, creating a surreal panorama that has captivated explorers for centuries. This geological marvel, shaped over millions of years, boasts a biodiversity that includes rare species of flora and fauna, making it not just a visual feast but also an ecological treasure. UNESCO’s dual recognition—for both its aesthetic value and scientific importance—underscores its global significance, placing it among the world’s most extraordinary sites.
Sunset on Ha Long Bay.
Beyond the scenery, Ha Long Bay’s cultural depth adds layers of intrigue, with floating villages where generations of fishermen have lived in harmony with the water, preserving traditions that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s resilient spirit. For families, it serves as an educational playground, teaching about environmental conservation through interactive experiences; couples find romance in its misty sunrises and secluded coves; while solo travelers appreciate the solitude amid nature’s grandeur.
In compared to 2 days in Ha Long Bay, a 3-day adventure unlocks richer experiences, allowing for a more relaxed pace and the chance to explore beyond the bay’s core highlights. The extra day in a 3-day trip enables visits to quieter areas like Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha Bay, where you can kayak through secluded lagoons or linger in fishing villages like Cua Van to connect with local traditions. The additional time also permits a deeper dive into Ha Long City’s offerings, such as extended evenings at Sun World Halong Complex or savoring local dishes at Ha Long Market, fostering a fuller appreciation of the region’s culture.
To truly understand its appeal, explore why visit Ha Long Bay and see how it fits into broader Vietnam tour packages.
How to get to Ha Long Bay?
Ha Long Bay is 170 kilometers from Hanoi, serving as an accessible gateway to Vietnam’s northern coastal wonders, reachable in about 3,5 hours through a variety of transportation methods that suit different travel styles and budgets. Each option comes with its own set of advantages, allowing you to tailor your arrival to enhance the overall experience of your trip.
By bus
For those prioritizing affordability and a touch of local immersion, buses departing from Hanoi’s My Dinh or Gia Lam stations provide an economical choice, with fares ranging from $5 to $10. Reliable companies such as Hoang Long operate these services, giving passengers a window into everyday Vietnamese life along the route. However, be prepared for potential multiple stops and unassigned seating, which can add unpredictability to the journey.
To make the most of it, you can book tickets in advance through online platforms and carry light snacks or bottled water, turning the ride into a relaxed prelude to your bay adventure.
By private car
The best way to scroll around and admire the stunning scenery across the roads while in Ha Long Bay is renting a car with a driver. This way will allow you to master your time, have more freedom and know the destinations as well as the routes under the guide of the driver on your trip. Groups, families, or anyone desiring comfort and control will find private cars an excellent fit, which costs between $50 and $100 for a one-way trip depending on vehicle size and amenities. Arranging through reputable agencies like Paradise Travel, or any online platforms.
Private car transfer not only ensures a smooth ride but also permits spontaneous detours to picturesque areas, where you can capture early photos of rural landscapes. Always negotiate and confirm the total fare upfront to prevent any surprises, making this option ideal for those who value flexibility and privacy during transit.
Our suggestion: To avoid last-minute hassles, especially in high season, reserve your transport options as well as your travel ahead of time. Local tour operators such as Paradise Travel, provide Vietnam tour packages including private car transfer to Ha Long Bay, and between other destinations. You will always enjoy private car transfers between locations, ensuring you don’t have to worry about planning your itinerary.
By seaplane
Elevate your arrival with Hai Au Aviation’s seaplane service, a 45-minute flight from Hanoi that incorporates a 15-minute scenic loop over the bay’s iconic formations, priced at $150–$200 per person. This premium choice appeals to time-conscious travelers or those seeking a dramatic introduction to Ha Long Bay’s splendor from above, highlighting the karsts in a way ground travel cannot. Due to high demand and limited flights, securing reservations well in advance is crucial, transforming your journey into an exhilarating aerial prelude.
Admire Ha Long Bay from above on Hai Au’s seaplanes.
Best Time to Visit Ha Long Bay
- October–April (Dry Season): Revel in temperate climes (15–25°C) and scant precipitation, prime for cruises and vistas. Reserve ahead for October–November or March–April to sidestep throngs, particularly around Tet in January or February.
- May–September (Wet Season): Brace for sultry humidity (25–35°C) and possible typhoons in July–August. Bargain rates beckon thrifty voyagers, yet vigilantly track best time to visit Ha Long Bay for secure travels.
- Festivals: April or May’s Ha Long Carnival infuses your visit with parades and performances, amplifying cultural vibrancy.
Our tip: You should target late October or early April for prime conditions minus the masses. Remember to do regular forecast checks to safeguard your plans.
Accommodation options for your stay
Ha Long Bay boasts a diverse selection of accommodations that cater to every preference, whether you crave the luxury of a high-end hotel, the coziness of a resort, the authenticity of a homestay, or the immersive thrill of an overnight cruise. Each choice enhances your 3-day stay by positioning you close to the bay’s wonders, with options that blend modern comforts and scenic views. Overnight cruises, in particular, stand out for their ability to let you wake up amid the karsts, providing a sense of floating through a dreamlike landscape.
Here are our selections for your tour to Northern Vietnam:
- Wyndham Legend Hotel: Perched at 12 Ha Long Street in Bai Chay Ward, this upscale property delivers a blend of elegance and convenience, featuring spacious rooms with panoramic bay views, a rooftop pool for relaxation, and on-site dining that showcases local flavors. It’s an ideal base for those who appreciate refined amenities while being steps away from the waterfront promenade.
- Ha Long Plaza Hotel: At 8 Ha Long Road, this mid-range gem offers well-appointed rooms with modern facilities, including a fitness center and spa services, making it a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. Its central location facilitates easy access to nearby markets and attractions, appealing to travelers seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
- Novotel Halong Bay: Situated at 160 Ha Long Road, this contemporary hotel combines sleek design with practical features like family-friendly suites, an outdoor pool, and diverse dining options. Its proximity to the bay’s edge makes it a strategic choice for those planning multiple excursions, ensuring a restful haven amid your adventures.
- Saigon – Halong Hotel: Found at 168 Ha Long Road, this reliable accommodation provides clean, spacious rooms with essential amenities, including a restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine. It’s particularly suited for budget-conscious groups or families who want a no-fuss stay close to the action.
- Overnight Cruises: Ventures like Paradise Cruises, Bhaya Cruises, or Indochina Junk transform your lodging into an adventure, with private cabins, gourmet meals, and onboard activities such as Tai Chi sessions or cooking demonstrations. These floating hotels allow you to drift through the bay’s serene beauty, waking to sunrises over the water and falling asleep under starry skies.
Join a cooking class on a Ha Long Bay cruise.
Top attractions in Ha Long Bay
Over 3 days, Ha Long Bay reveals its array of captivating sites, each blending natural grandeur with cultural intrigue. These attractions not only showcase the bay’s geological wonders but also invite deeper connections with its history and ecosystems, making every visit a layered experience.
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. A cruise in the bay will be an unforgettable experience during your Vietnam tour.
Bai Tu Long Bay
This site extends North-west of Ha Long Bay to the Chinese border. This destination will satisfy all tourists, even the most demanding travelers. Traveling to the off-the-beaten-track Bai Tu Long Bay will offer many unique and interesting experiences as well.
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 3 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 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 3 days in Ha Long Bay.
Titov island in Ha Long Bay.
Surprise 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.
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 3 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 3 days in Ha Long Bay.
What to eat during 3 days in Ha Long Bay
Drawing from its seaside roots, Ha Long Bay’s food scene bursts with fresh catches and inventive dishes that reflect the region’s bountiful waters and cultural influences. Over 3 days, sampling these specialties not only tantalizes the taste buds but also connects you to local traditions, from communal feasts to street-side discoveries.
- Cha Muc (Fried Squid): These golden, chewy patties, crafted from pounded fresh squid and fried to perfection, pair wonderfully with a zesty fish sauce dip. Seek them out at Hong Hanh Restaurant, where the crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful core, embodying the bay’s seafood essence.
Cha muc.
- Banh Cuon Cha Muc: Soft rice sheets rolled around savory pork and mushroom fillings, topped with squid and a tangy sauce, create a harmonious bite. At Quan Oc Thuy Tien, this dish highlights the delicate balance of textures, a staple that invites sharing among family or friends.
- Sam: Resembling crab but with a richer taste, this large shellfish shines when steamed, grilled, or tossed in salads at waterfront eateries. Its succulent meat captures the briny freshness of the sea, making it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts exploring the bay’s culinary depths.
- Sa Sung (Peanut Worms): These marine delicacies, stir-fried with garlic, deliver a sweet, umami-packed flavor that’s surprisingly addictive. Specialty spots serve them as a bold introduction to Ha Long’s exotic offerings, often paired with cold beer for a casual dining vibe.
- Banh Gat Gu (Nodding Cake): Long rice rolls “nodding” when lifted, doused in fish sauce with chicken fat and onions, offer a quirky texture play. Local markets provide the freshest versions, turning a simple snack into a cultural ritual.
- Bun Be Be (Mantis Shrimp Noodles): Featuring tender mantis shrimp in a hearty broth with noodles, herbs, and veggies, this dish warms the soul in Bai Chay Ward eateries. The broth’s depth, simmered from shrimp shells and pork bones, elevates it to comfort food status.
Bun be be.
- Banh Tai Long Ep: Handcrafted by the San Diu people, this sweet, chewy cake blends rice and peanuts for a subtle aroma. Bakeries and markets stock it as a portable treat, reflecting ethnic culinary traditions.
- Bun Xao Ngan (Austriella Corrugata Noodles): Clams stir-fried with mushrooms and wood ear create a savory noodle medley, light yet flavorful. It’s a quick, satisfying option that showcases the bay’s shellfish abundance.
- Tien Yen Hill Chicken: Raised free-range on hillsides, this chicken’s firm, juicy meat excels when grilled or steamed near Tien Yen. Its natural sweetness pairs well with fresh herbs, offering a land-based counterpoint to the bay’s seafood focus.
- Bubbles Yogurt: A playful dessert mixing chilled yogurt with warm coconut milk and tapioca bubbles, found at city shops. This hot-cold contrast provides a refreshing end to meals, blending simplicity with delight.
Suggested itineraries for 3 days in Ha Long Bay
Embarking on a 3-day escapade in Ha Long Bay opens doors to tailored journeys that weave together nature’s majesty with cultural richness. These itineraries serve as blueprints, adaptable to your pace and passions, ensuring every day unfolds with discovery and delight. Cruise 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 3 days in Ha Long Bay:
- Route 1 (departing from Tuan Chau Harbor): Ha Long Bay – Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) – Titov Island
- Route 2 (departing from Tuan Chau Harbor): Ha Long Bay – Cave of Heavenly Palace (Dong Thien Cung), Cave of Wooden Stakes (Hang Dau Go)
- Route 3 (departing from Tuan Chau Harbor): Ha Long Bay – Bai Tu Long Bay – Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) – Titov Island
- Route 4 (departing from Got Pier in Hai Phong): Lan Ha Bay excursion
Option 1: Extended Cruise Experience
Day 1:
Launch your voyage from Tuan Chau Harbor, gliding across Ha Long Bay’s iconic peaks aboard a comfortable cruise. Venture into Surprise Cave, where ancient stalactites whisper tales of time, followed by a refreshing dip or ascent at Titov Island. Relish a onboard lunch of fresh seafood, then paddle kayaks amid floating villages, glimpsing daily life on the water. As dusk falls, join a hands-on cooking session and cast lines for squid, retiring to your cabin under a canopy of stars.
Sung Sot cave in Ha Long Bay.
Day 2:
Awaken to a gentle Tai Chi practice as the sun crests the horizon. Navigate to Bai Tu Long Bay, delving into Cua Van village’s traditions through interactions with fishermen. Savor a leisurely breakfast before docking by midday. In Ha Long City, unwind with a café lunch, then dedicate the evening to Sun World Halong Complex, thrilling on Dragon Park coasters or gazing from the Sun Wheel as lights dance on the water.
Day 3:
Meander through Ha Long Market, haggling for trinkets or tasting specialties like mantis shrimp noodles. Cap your trip with a serene morning at Bai Chay Beach, soaking in the views before your return to Hanoi, carrying echoes of the bay’s serenity.
Option 2: Cruise and City Adventures
Day 1:
Depart on a half-day cruise to Lan Ha Bay from Got Pier, weaving through tranquil lagoons by kayak or basking at Van Boi Island. A Vietnamese lunch afloat sets the stage for evening explorations in Cat Ba, from jazz at coastal bar to vibrant stalls at the night market, sampling street eats and souvenirs under twinkling lights.
Day 2:
Embark on a morning sail to Heavenly Palace Cave and Wooden Piles Cave, uncovering their mythical shapes and histories. Journey to Cua Van Fishing Village, engaging in local fishing techniques and traditions. Conclude with a relaxed dinner along the shore, reflecting on the day’s thrills.
Day 3:
Post-lunch at Hong Hanh restaurant, immerse in Sun World Halong Complex for adrenaline-pumping rides or water escapades. Afternoon hours allow for market shopping or leisure before departing for Hanoi, enriched by the bay’s cultural heartbeat.
The Sun Wheel in Ha Long.
Option 3: Cultural and Offbeat Exploration
Day 1:
Sail into Lan Ha Bay, navigating secret tunnels by kayak and lounging on Van Boi Island’s sands. Onboard lunch fuels the day, leading to an overnight on the cruise or a Cat Ba homestay, where a dinner by the beach introduces authentic flavors amid island tranquility.
Day 2:
Traverse Bai Tu Long Bay‘s wild beauty, visiting fishing hamlets to share stories with residents. Return to Ha Long City for a casual lunch and afternoon repose. Evening brings options like Sun World Halong Complex or a peaceful waterfront amble, soaking in the nocturnal charm.
Day 3:
Head to Tien Yen for a taste of hill chicken and market wanderings, absorbing local vibes. En route back to Hanoi, detour to Yen Duc village for a final cultural touch, wrapping your journey in reflective grace.
Bai Tu Long Bay, an alternative choice for Ha Long Bay.
Best things to do for 3 days in Ha Long Bay
Three days in Ha Long Bay unlock a spectrum of pursuits that cater to every inclination, from adrenaline-fueled explorations to serene cultural dives, each enhancing your connection to this enchanting locale.
- Cruise adventures: Navigate hidden lagoons by kayak, master Vietnamese spring rolls in a cooking workshop, greet the dawn with Tai Chi, or angle for squid under the moonlit sky, each activity weaving you into the bay’s rhythmic flow.
- Cave and island exploration: Traverse caverns like Surprise Cave equipped with reliable footwear and a camera to capture nature’s sculptures, heeding guides to safeguard these ancient formations for future generations.
- Sun World Halong Complex: Thrill to Dragon Park’s coasters, cool off in Typhoon Water Park’s slides, or ascend the Sun Wheel for sweeping vistas, a playground for families and excitement seekers alike.
- Nightlife discovery: Ha Long City’s after-dark scene pulses at Blue Note Bar with melodies, Flightless Bird Bar with crafted drinks, or the night market with flavorful bites and artisan finds, offering a lively close to your days.
- Cultural immersion: Step into Cua Van Fishing Village to uncover fish farming secrets and traditional crafts, purchasing handmade items that bolster local livelihoods and enrich your understanding of bay life.
Best overnight cruise programs on board
There are a variety of choices for your overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay. You can align your cruise selection with your desires, opting for routes like Lan Ha Bay for peace or Ha Long Bay for classics. Master the art of selection with our guide on how to choose a perfect Ha Long Bay cruise. 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 Unforgettable Ha Long Bay Adventure
A 3-day sojourn in Ha Long Bay weaves natural splendor, cultural depth, and exhilarating pursuits into an indelible tapestry. From navigating karst silhouettes to relishing seafood feasts and venturing into lively venues, this haven forges enduring recollections. Customize your Vietnam tours to sculpt an ideal agenda, be it tranquil sails, familial escapades, or cultural quests. Engage trusted platforms like vietnamparadisetravel.com for effortless arrangements. Embark today and unveil Ha Long Bay’s enchantment.
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