Halong Bay Shore Excursion: Half Day Ha Long City Tour with Guide

Hanoi , Vietnam

Halong Bay Shore Excursion: Half Day Ha Long City Tour with Guide

Active

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Being a coastal city, Ha Long bears unique potential as a tourist destination and a seaport. Its land lies along 50 km of the shore of Ha Long Bay. Ha Long is 160 km to the north-east from Hanoi City, 60 km to the East from Hai Phong, and 180 km to the south-west from Mong Cai international border gate, and it is bounded by the Gulf of Tonkin to the south. Ha Long has a strategic location for the economic development and security of the region and the country.

Available options

Half Day Halong City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled Water

All Tickets & Fees

Private English Speaking Guide

Port Pick-up and Drop-off with Private Vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Ha Long, a city on Vietnam’s northern coast, is a jumping-off point for Hạ Long Bay, a broad inlet of dramatic, often mist-covered limestone islands. Replicas of traditional junk boats tour the bay and depart from the city’s Bai Chay district. Bai Chay also has an artificial beach, a casino, cafes and dozens of hotels from resort-style complexes to hostels.

Bai Chay Bridge is a remarkable example of Vietnam's contemporary engineering and architectural brilliance. With an impressive span of 2,487 meters, this cable-stayed bridge links the vibrant hubs of Hon Gai and Bai Chay.

Bai Tho Mountain overlooking the celebrated Ha Long Bay has been among well-known tourist attractions in the coastal city.
Standing at the confluence of land and sea, the mountain seems to be divided into two parts. Its lofty summits, with treacherous cliffs and sheer drops, loom up against the sky, the highest one resembling a majestic spear pointing at the heavens.
Like many other mountains and caves of Halong Bay, Bai Tho Mountain was formed millions of years ago, during the Devonian period. Bai Tho Mountain used to be called Truyen Dang Son, or Roi Den Mountain. The name came from its purpose during the resistance of Vietnamese against the Mongol Yuan Dynasty in 1288. On the peak of this mountain, there was an important watch-tower of the army in Northeast Vietnam. On normal days, this watch-tower was used as a lighthouse marking the direction. During the war, whenever the invaders appeared in the sea, the guards would set a fire to inform the army in the capital.

Long Tien Pagoda is located at the foot of Bai Tho Mountain, Long Tien Street, the Pier Hotel in Hon Gai, and is the largest pagoda in Ha Long City. It was built in 1941 to worship Buddha and generals of the Tran Dynasty. On the Lunar New Year, full moon day, the first of every month, Long Tien Pagoda attracts many locals and tourists who are Buddhist followers from everywhere.

Stop 5

Quang Ninh Museum stands as a monument to the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. With its striking architectural design and an impressive collection of artifacts, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s fascinating history, from its natural beauty to its vital role in Vietnam’s coal industry.

Discover the serene beauty of Hon Gai Church, a spiritual haven in Ha Long City, Vietnam, blending breathtaking architecture and local culture.

Colorful marketplace filled with vendors selling fish, shrimp, crab & squid, plus produce & flowers.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.