If you dream of emerald waters, towering limestone cliffs, and a serene escape into nature, Ha Long Bay Travel should be at the top of your bucket list. Located in northeastern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its 1,600 limestone islands and islets, each shaped like something out of a legend.
A 3-day, 2-night itinerary is the ideal way to explore this natural wonder. It allows enough time to cruise through the most stunning parts of the bay, discover hidden caves, kayak in tranquil lagoons, and soak in magical sunsets without feeling rushed.
In this guide, you’ll find a detailed plan for an inspiring yet practical journey – perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

Why Choose a 3-Day Ha Long Bay Tour?
Ha Long Bay, located in Quang Ninh Province, is a masterpiece of nature with over 1,600 limestone islands and serene waters. Paired with Ha Long City’s cultural and culinary offerings, a 3-day, 2-night trip allows you to explore both the bay’s iconic attractions and the city’s vibrant charm. This itinerary balances adventure, relaxation, and budget-saving tips, ensuring an inspiring experience for travelers of all kinds.
Best Time for a Ha Long Bay Tour
Timing your visit enhances your experience:
- October to December: Clear skies and mild temperatures (20-25°C) are ideal for cruising and sightseeing.
- March to April: Pleasant weather (18-24°C) with fewer crowds, perfect for budget travelers.
- May to September: Warm (25-30°C) for swimming, but check for rain or typhoons.
- Avoid Winter (December to February): Cooler temperatures and mist may limit visibility.
3-Day, 2-Night Ha Long Bay Itinerary
This itinerary blends Ha Long Bay’s iconic sites, Lan Ha Bay’s serenity, and Ha Long City’s urban charm for a fun and budget-friendly adventure.
Day 1: Sail into the Heart of Ha Long Bay
Morning: Journey from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
Your adventure begins in Hanoi’s Old Quarter at 8:30 AM, where a comfortable shuttle bus or limousine whisks you toward Ha Long City. The 2.5-hour drive along the expressway offers glimpses of Vietnam’s countryside-rolling rice paddies and quaint villages. Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina by noon, where your cruise ship awaits, its sails ready to carry you into the iconic Ha Long Bay.
Tip: Choose a cruise with included transfers for convenience. Popular options like Mon Cheri or Stellar of the Seas offer seamless transport from Hanoi.
Afternoon: Cruise Ha Long Bay and Kayak in Serenity
Board your cruise by 12:30 PM, welcomed with a refreshing drink. As you settle into your cabin-ranging from cozy budget rooms to luxurious suites with private balconies-the ship sets sail. Lunch is served onboard, featuring fresh seafood, Vietnamese spring rolls, and tropical fruits, all against the backdrop of Ha Long Bay’s dramatic limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Post-lunch, the cruise ventures to Tra Bau Area or Dark and Bright Cave in Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay’s busier routes. Here, grab a kayak or hop on a bamboo boat to glide through serene lagoons framed by lush cliffs. The crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, offering a refreshing dip in nature’s embrace. The tranquility and stunning scenery make this a highlight of your journey.

Evening: Sunset Cocktails and Local Flavors
As the sun dips, head to the sundeck for Happy Hour cocktails, often buy-one-get-one-free, and watch the sky blaze with hues of orange and pink. Join a cooking class to master Vietnamese dishes like gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls), guided by the ship’s chef. Dinner is a feast of local specialties – grilled prawns, steamed clams, and fragrant rice – served under the stars.
After dinner, try squid fishing, a fun activity where you cast nets into the illuminated waters. Alternatively, relax on the deck, stargazing as the bay’s calm envelops you. Retire to your cabin, lulled by the gentle waves.

Local Food Tip: Onboard dining showcases Ha Long’s seafood, but ask for chả mực if it’s not on the menu – it’s a regional specialty!
Day 2: Discover Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long City’s Vibrant Charm
Morning: Tai Chi and Viet Hai Village
Wake at 6:30 AM for a tai chi session on the sundeck, where morning mist clings to the karsts, creating a serene start. Breakfast follows, with a buffet of fresh pastries, fruits, and Vietnamese coffee. By 8:30 AM, transfer to a day boat for Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island, a hidden gem in Lan Ha Bay. Rent a bicycle or electric cart to explore this tranquil fishing village, pedaling past rice fields and limestone hills. Engage with locals and soak in the rural charm – a perfect contrast to the bay’s dramatic seascape.

Afternoon: Beach Bliss and Ha Long City Exploration
After a seafood lunch on the day boat, head to Ba Trai Dao Beach or Ao Ech Area for swimming and kayaking in crystal waters. These secluded spots offer a private paradise, perfect for a refreshing swim or a leisurely paddle. Return to the main cruise by late afternoon for a quick refresh, then disembark at Tuan Chau Marina around 4:00 PM.
Transfer to Ha Long City for an afternoon of urban exploration. Visit Quang Ninh Museum, a modern architectural gem showcasing the region’s history, from ancient artifacts to coal-mining heritage. Stroll along Bai Chay Beach or climb Poem Mountain for panoramic views of the coastline. As evening sets in, explore Ha Long Night Market, where vibrant stalls sell souvenirs, handmade crafts, and street food.

Local Food Tip: Dine at Cua Vang Restaurant (28 Tran Hung Dao, Ha Long City) for authentic chả mực and bún hải sản (seafood noodle soup). Alternatively, try Hong Hanh 3 for fresh crab and prawns in a local setting.
Evening: Ha Long City’s Nightlife
Check into a hotel in Ha Long City, such as Wyndham Legend Halong or Muong Thanh Luxury Quang Ninh, for a comfortable night. Head to Sun World Ha Long Complex for a thrilling cable car ride over the bay or a spin on the Ferris wheel, offering dazzling nighttime views. For a relaxed evening, sip cocktails at Sky Bar at Wyndham Legend, overlooking the illuminated city and bay.

Day 3: Caves, Islands, and a Fond Farewell
Morning: Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island
Start with a light breakfast at your hotel, then return to Tuan Chau Marina by 8:00 AM for a day cruise to Ha Long Bay’s iconic sites. Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), one of the bay’s largest caves, with guided tours revealing its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Next, head to Ti Top Island, where you can climb 400 steps for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the bay or swim in its warm, clear waters – a perfect farewell to Ha Long’s natural beauty.

Tip: May to September is ideal for swimming at Ti Top, but always check with your crew for safety regarding currents or jellyfish.
Afternoon: Local Lunch and Return to Hanoi
Back on the cruise, enjoy a brunch featuring phở, fresh fruits, and Vietnamese tea as you sail back to Tuan Chau Marina by 11:30 AM. Before departing Ha Long City, stop at Linh Dan Restaurant (Bai Chay, Ha Long) for a final taste of local cuisine – try bánh cuốn chả mực (rice rolls with squid patties) for a unique dish. Board the shuttle back to Hanoi at 12:30 PM, arriving around 3:00 PM, with memories of Ha Long’s beauty etched in your heart.

Choosing Your Ha Long Bay Cruise and Stay
Cruise Options
- Budget Cruises (e.g., V’Spirit Classic, ~$220-$240/person): Affordable with cozy cabins, including meals and kayaking. Ideal for backpackers.
- Mid-Range Cruises (e.g., La Regina, ~$240-$290/person): Spacious cabins and diverse activities like cooking classes. Great for couples.
- Luxury Cruises (e.g., Paradise Elegance, ~$290-$590/person): Private balconies, pools, and gourmet dining. Perfect for a premium experience.
Where to Stay in Ha Long City
- Budget: Halong Bay Hotel (~$30-$50/night), clean and central.
- Mid-Range: Muong Thanh Grand Ha Long (~$50-$80/night), modern with bay views.
- Luxury: Wyndham Legend Halong (~$100-$150/night), upscale with excellent amenities.
Which Bay to Explore?
- Ha Long Bay: Iconic with Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island, ideal for first-timers.
- Lan Ha Bay: Quieter with pristine beaches and Viet Hai Village, perfect for tranquility.
- Bai Tu Long Bay: Secluded with untouched spots like Vung Vieng Village, great for adventurers.
Recommendation: Choose a Lan Ha Bay cruise for Day 1-2 for serenity, paired with a Ha Long Bay day trip on Day 3 for iconic sites. Cruises like Mon Cheri or La Regina offer this flexibility.

Practical Tips for Your Ha Long Adventure
- Best Time to Visit: October to December for clear skies; March to April for mild weather. May to September is warm for swimming but risks rain. Winter (December to February) offers a misty vibe but cooler temperatures.
- What to Pack: Swimwear, sunscreen, hat, light clothing, comfortable shoes for hiking, and a jacket for evenings. Bring a camera for the views!
- Safety Tips: Swim only in designated areas and follow cruise crew guidance. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen in summer.
- Budget Tips: Book cruises and hotels early for deals. Off-peak seasons (May-September) offer lower prices but check weather forecasts.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly in villages and ask permission before photographing locals.
Local Food Must-Tries:
- Chả mực: Grilled squid patties, a Ha Long specialty.
- Bún hải sản: Seafood noodle soup, fresh and flavorful.
- Bánh cuốn chả mực: Rice rolls with squid, unique to the region.
Why Ha Long Bay Should Be on Your Bucket List?
Ha Long Bay is not just a place – it’s a feeling. It’s the awe of watching mist drift between towering cliffs. It’s the laughter of kayaking with friends through hidden lagoons. It’s the quiet moments on deck as the stars reflect on calm waters.
With this 3-day, 2-night Ha Long Bay travel itinerary, you’ll have the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this journey will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
So pack your sense of adventure – Ha Long Bay is waiting.