Hanoi & Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Hanoi & Ha Long Bay

Old Quarter streets and limestone bays

Photo: Taewangkorea, CC BY-SA 4.0

Hanoi & Ha Long Bay is one of those places that stays with you long after the trip ends. Old Quarter streets and limestone bays — and it is easier to plan than you might think.

Best time
October to April
Budget
₹
Nearest airport
HAN

Why visit Hanoi & Ha Long Bay

Hanoi & Ha Long Bay (Southeast Asia) is known for its city, food and nature experiences. Overall it is budget-friendly — hostels, homestays and local food keep costs low.

Best time to go

The best time to visit is October to April.

Top things to do

  • Walking Hanoi's Old Quarter
  • Overnight cruise on Ha Long or Lan Ha Bay
  • Train Street café stop
  • Ninh Binh's river caves

Planning ahead? See Hanoi & Ha Long Bay hotels for 20 Nov to 23 Nov.

What to eat

  • Pho
  • Bun cha
  • Egg coffee

How to get there

Fly into Noi Bai International Airport; direct flights operate from India.

Where to stay

  • Old Quarter for atmosphere
  • Hoan Kiem Lake area
  • A cruise boat for one night

Insider tip

Pick a Lan Ha Bay cruise for fewer boats than central Ha Long.

What to pack

Questions travellers ask

When is the best time to visit Hanoi & Ha Long Bay?

October to April.

How do I reach Hanoi & Ha Long Bay?

Fly into Noi Bai International Airport; direct flights operate from India.

Where should I stay in Hanoi & Ha Long Bay?

Popular choices: Old Quarter for atmosphere; Hoan Kiem Lake area; A cruise boat for one night.

This guide contains affiliate links. Timings, fees and entry rules change, so check official sources before you travel.

If you like Hanoi & Ha Long Bay

Browse everything