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Quang Ninh

Quang Ninh, Vietnam: What you should know before visiting

17/03/2025 876 views

Quang Ninh is one of northern Vietnam’s most captivating destinations, famous for the iconic Ha Long Bay. But beyond this world-renowned landscape, Quang Ninh has so much more to offer. From breathtaking scenery to fresh seafood, this province has something for every traveler.

1. Where is Quang Ninh on Vietnam map?

Quang Ninh is a coastal province in northern Vietnam. It borders China to the north, Hai Phong to the south, and the Gulf of Tonkin to the east. To the west and northwest, it shares boundaries with Lang Son and Bac Giang, while Hai Duong lies to the southwest.

The Quang Ninh Vietnam map shows its prime location

The Quang Ninh Vietnam map shows its prime location (Source: Collected)

Thanks to its strategic location, Quang Ninh is a vital gateway connecting Vietnam to international markets. It is also a key economic and cultural hub, playing an important role in interprovincial trade.

Quang Ninh is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, especially its coastline and islands. The province stretches over 250 kilometers along the sea. Quang Ninh also has a rich cultural heritage, with more than 600 historical and religious sites. Whether you love nature or culture, this province offers countless discoveries.

2. Quang Ninh weather: Best time to visit

Quang Ninh Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Winter and summer are the most noticeable, while spring and autumn are shorter transitional periods. Summer (May- September) is hot and humid, with temperatures above 25°C. Winter (November – March) is cool and dry, with temperatures below 20°C. Spring (April) and autumn (October) bring pleasant weather with mild temperatures.

The best time to visit Quang Ninh depends on your plans. Summer is ideal for beach and island exploration. If you prefer cooler weather and clear skies, autumn and spring are great. Winter is a good option if you want a quiet getaway. For a deeper cultural experience, time your trip to coincide with local festivals. Quang Ninh hosts many events throughout the year, such as the Yen Tu Festival, Carnival Ha Long, and the Tra Co Communal House Festival.

Quang Ninh weather offers something different in every season

Quang Ninh weather offers something different in every season (Source: Collected)

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3. Must-see attractions on the Quang Ninh Vietnam map

3.1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most iconic attraction in Quang Ninh. With over 1,600 limestone islands and islets, it offers breathtaking scenery.

Several famous caves are worth exploring here. Sung Sot Cave impresses with its massive chambers and intricate rock formations. Dau Go Cave features stunning stalactites and stalagmites, while Thien Cung Cave is known for its vibrant lighting and mystical atmosphere. Luon Cave is perfect for kayaking, offering a peaceful experience surrounded by towering cliffs.

For panoramic views, Ti Top Island offers a scenic hike leading to a stunning viewpoint. You can also explore the local culture at Cua Van Floating Village, where traditional fishing life remains preserved. Among Ha Long’s famous rock formations, Fighting Cocks Islet stands out as a symbol of the bay.

Beyond sightseeing, Ha Long Bay offers exciting experiences. You can cruise through the bay, kayak through hidden lagoons, try squid fishing at night, or even take a seaplane ride for a bird’s-eye view. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Ha Long Bay has something for everyone.

Ha Long Bay brings worldwide fame to Quang Ninh Province Vietnam

Ha Long Bay brings worldwide fame to Quang Ninh Province Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.2. Bai Tu Long Bay

Bai Tu Long Bay lies east of Ha Long Bay, offering a less crowded alternative. With emerald waters and towering limestone karsts, it boasts unspoiled beauty and rich biodiversity.

There are many attractions to explore in Bai Tu Long Bay. Thien Canh Son Cave features sparkling stalactites and breathtaking rock formations. Cong Do Island is perfect for kayaking, with hidden lagoons and vibrant coral reefs. Vung Vieng Fishing Village and Cong Dam Fishing Village offer a glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen, while Ban Chan Beach is an ideal place to relax on soft white sand.

A cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay lets you admire its untouched scenery, while kayaking through limestone caves and lagoons brings you closer to nature. You can also visit floating villages, try squid fishing at night, or explore Bai Tu Long National Park for a chance to see wildlife.

Bai Tu Long Bay impresses visitors with its untouched beauty

Bai Tu Long Bay impresses visitors with its untouched beauty (Source: Collected)

3.3. Quang Ninh islands

Quang Ninh Vietnam is home to many stunning islands, each offering unique landscapes and experiences:

  • Tuan Chau Island: Tuan Chau is the most developed island in Quang Ninh, known for its entertainment complexes and modern marina. It serves as a gateway to Ha Long Bay cruises. Here, you can enjoy beaches, water sports, and cultural performances, including the famous dolphin and seal shows.
  • Quan Lan Island: If you love nature and tranquility, Quan Lan Island is a great place to be. It features untouched beaches like Minh Chau and Son Hao, with clear water and soft sand. The island has historical sites such as Quan Lan Temple which reflect the region’s deep cultural heritage. 
  • Co To Island: Co To Island is famous for its romantic scenery. It boasts Van Chay Beach and Hong Van Beach, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets. The island also has a lighthouse offering panoramic views. Other highlights include visiting small fishing villages, exploring hidden rocky shores, and taking a boat trip to nearby islets.
Each island in Quang Ninh Province Vietnam embraces a different charm

Each island in Quang Ninh Province Vietnam embraces a different charm (Source: Collected)

3.4. Quang Ninh beaches

Quang Ninh Vietnam is also blessed with many beautiful beaches, such as:

  • Bai Chay Beach: Bai Chay Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ha Long City. It features a long stretch of golden sand, clear water, and many nearby resorts, restaurants, and entertainment sites. This man-made beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. In the evening, Bai Chay Beach becomes vibrant with night markets and live music.
  • Tra Co Beach: Located in Mong Cai City near the Chinese border, Tra Co Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Vietnam. It has soft white sand, gentle waves, and a long coastline, perfect for quiet walks. The area is also famous for fresh seafood and cultural sites like Tra Co Communal House. If you visit in late June, you can experience the Tra Co Festival, a celebration of the local fishing traditions.
  • Bai Dai Beach: A hidden gem on Van Don Island, Bai Dai Beach stretches about 2 kilometers with golden sand and clear water. The area features resorts with private beaches, restaurants, and hotels. Here, you can also enjoy a range of water sports including jet skiing, beach volleyball, and kayaking.
Quang Ninh offers a variety of beaches, from lively spots to peaceful hideaways

Quang Ninh offers a variety of beaches, from lively spots to peaceful hideaways (Source: Collected)

3.5. Bach Dang Historical Relic

Bach Dang Historical Relic is a must-see for history enthusiasts. Located in Quang Yen Town, this site commemorates the legendary naval battles on the Bach Dang River, where Vietnamese forces defeated invaders in 938, 981, and 1288. These victories played a crucial role in shaping Vietnam’s history and protecting its sovereignty.

At the relic site, you can explore Tran Hung Dao Temple, which was built to honor Tran Hung Dao – the general who led the battle against the Mongol army in 1288. Nearby, the wooden stake field is a fascinating landmark. It displays remnants of the famous strategy where sharpened wooden stakes were planted in the riverbed to trap enemy ships.

3.6. Sa Vi Cape

Located in Mong Cai City, Sa Vi Cape is the northeasternmost point of Vietnam. It is also the first place in the country to welcome the sunrise. At Sa Vi Cape, you can admire stunning views of Tra Co Beach and the distant border with China. The two main highlights here are Border Marker 1378 and the central square. The border marker marks the final point on the maritime boundary between Vietnam and China. In the middle of the central square, you will find a unique structure featuring eight poplar trees reaching high into the sky.

Sa Vi Cape in Quang Ninh Province marks the first sunrise spot in Vietnam

Sa Vi Cape in Quang Ninh Province marks the first sunrise spot in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.7. Quang Ninh mountains

Quang Ninh is not only famous for beautiful islands and beaches, it also boasts majestic mountains. These are some that you should not miss out on:

  • Cao Ly Mountain: Cao Ly Mountain stretches across an area of over 40 km², with eight peaks higher than 1,000 meters in Binh Lieu District. From July to September, this mountain is covered with purple mua flowers. From October onward, it becomes a perfect place to hunt for clouds. 
  • Phuong Hoang Mountain: Located in Uong Bi City, Phuong Hoang Mountain is a popular spot for those who love camping and photography. The best time to visit this mountain is at the end of the year, when the hills turn golden and the weather is cool.
  • Binh Huong Mountain: Binh Huong Mountain is also in Uong Bi City, stretching over 3 kilometers. The trek here is more challenging than at Phuong Hoang Mountain, but the views are well worth the effort. At the top, you can admire vast hills, take photos with small pine forests, and camp overnight to watch the sunrise the next morning.
Cao Ly Mountain in Quang Ninh Province is ideal for a quiet escape into nature

Cao Ly Mountain in Quang Ninh Province is ideal for a quiet escape into nature (Source: Collected)

3.8. Pagodas and temples

Quang Ninh Vietnam is also a spiritual destination with many sacred pagodas and temples. If you want to explore the region’s religious heritage, these sites are worth visiting:

  • Yen Tu Pagoda: Located on Yen Tu Mountain, this is one of Vietnam’s most important Buddhist sites. The journey to the pagoda involves a scenic trek or a cable car ride through lush forests and misty peaks. Yen Tu is known as the cradle of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism, welcoming thousands of pilgrims every year.
  • Cua Ong Temple: This temple in Cam Pha City honors General Tran Quoc Tang and many other notable figures from the Tran Dynasty. It sits on a hill overlooking Bai Tu Long Bay, making it a perfect place for both cultural exploration and sightseeing.
  • Long Tien Pagoda: Situated at the foot of Bai Tho Mountain in Ha Long City, Long Tien is the largest pagoda in the city. Built in the early 20th century, it features the unique architectural style of the Nguyen Dynasty, serving as a spiritual retreat for both locals and tourists.
  • Ba Vang Pagoda: This pagoda in Uong Bi City sits on the mountainside of Thanh Dang Mountain. In front of the pagoda, you can see the winding Bach Dang River. To the left, the Thanh Long Mountains stretch majestically, while to the right, the Bach Ho Mountains rise powerfully. Ba Vang Pagoda is well known for its grand architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and vibrant Buddhist festivals held throughout the year.
Yen Tu Pagoda is one of Quang Ninh’s most important religious sites

Yen Tu Pagoda is one of Quang Ninh’s most important religious sites (Source: Collected)

3.9. Quang Ninh Museum

Quang Ninh Museum is another must-see for culture lovers. Located in Ha Long City, this building stands out with its striking black-glass design which symbolizes coal – one of the province’s most important natural resources.

Inside, the museum showcases Quang Ninh’s heritage across three floors. The first floor focuses on nature, with the standout exhibit being four pillars shaped like mountains rising from the sea, just like those in Ha Long Bay. The second floor gives you insight into the daily life of Quang Ninh’s people throughout thousands of years. The third floor is dedicated to coal mining, an industry that has played a key role in Quang Ninh’s development.

Explore: Ha Long attractions: Must-see spots for every traveler

4. Top foods to try in Quang Ninh Province

Quang Ninh Vietnam is famous for its rich seafood-based cuisine. Here are some unmissable specialties in the province:

4.1. Fried squid cake (cha muc)

Cha muc is one of Quang Ninh’s most iconic dishes. Made from fresh squid, it is hand-pounded, shaped into patties, and deep-fried to a golden crisp. The result is a chewy texture with a natural sweetness. You can enjoy cha muc on its own, dip it in fish sauce, or pair it with sticky rice.

Cha muc is a must-try specialty in Quang Ninh Province

Cha muc is a must-try specialty in Quang Ninh Province (Source: Collected)

4.2. Cu ky noodle soup (bun cu ky)

Cu ky, also known as thunder crab, is a specialty found in Quang Ninh’s waters. Its meat is firm and sweet, perfect for a flavorful noodle soup. Bun cu ky features a rich broth made from crab shells, served with fresh herbs and vermicelli. It is a comforting dish that captures the essence of coastal cuisine.

4.3. Ngan clam porridge (chao ngan)

Chao ngan is a nutritious porridge made with ngan clams, a type of mollusk found in Quang Ninh’s coastal waters. These clams have a naturally sweet and slightly briny flavor, which enhances the taste of the porridge. Some versions also include finely ground dried sa sung, which adds even more depth to the dish.

4.4. Peanut worm dishes (sa sung)

Another highly prized seafood ingredient in Quang Ninh is sa sung. It is commonly dried and used to enhance the flavor of pho broth. The locals also enjoy it grilled or stir-fried with lemongrass and chili. The umami taste and crunchy texture make this a unique treat that you should definitely try.

4.5. Horseshoe crab dishes (sam bien)

Sam bien is a rare seafood delicacy prepared in various ways such as stir-fried, grilled, or cooked in a sweet-and-sour sauce. Horseshoe crab meat is often combined with lemongrass, chili, and fresh herbs for a bold flavor. Since sam bien must be processed carefully, it is best enjoyed at reputable restaurants.

Quang Ninh delights diners with many delicious dishes

Quang Ninh delights diners with many delicious dishes (Source: Collected)

Check out: Ha Long cuisine: Top 12 signature local foods to savor on your trip!

5. Useful information for your Quang Ninh trip

5.1. Transportation

Traveling to Quang Ninh Province Vietnam is easy, whether you choose to go by plane, passenger bus, car, or motorbike. It is home to Van Don International Airport, which offers flights from/to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City).

If you prefer the passenger bus, you can easily catch a ride from Hanoi to Quang Ninh. Common departure points include the bus stations of Giap Bat, Nuoc Ngam, My Dinh, and Gia Lam. Alternatively, you can book a limousine bus ride, which will pick you up and drop you off where you want to.

If you plan to drive yourself from Hanoi to Quang Ninh, the route depends on your choice of vehicle. For motorbikes, follow National Road 5 and National Road 18. For cars, follow the Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway.

5.2. Accommodation

Quang Ninh offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. For a unique experience, consider spending a night on a cruise in Ha Long Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. These overnight cruises cost around VND 2,000,000 per person for a 2-day-1-night tour, allowing you to wake up to magnificent karsts and tranquil waters.

If you prefer a high-end stay, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long is a top choice. This resort is located on Reu Island, offering stunning bay views, a private beach, and premium amenities. It is perfect for a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring Quang Ninh.

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long ensures a pampering stay for all guests

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long ensures a pampering stay for all guests

 

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5.3. Souvenirs to buy

Bringing home local specialties is a great way to remember your trip to Quang Ninh Vietnam. You can buy cha muc and sa sung. If you love fresh seafood, you will find plenty of options, including mantis shrimp, squid, crab, oysters, geoduck clams, and various types of fish. There are also delicious dried products such as shrimp floss, mantis shrimp floss, and oyster floss.

In addition to seafood, Quang Ninh is known for many other specialties such as khau nhuc (braised pork belly), gat gu cake (steamed rice rolls), Tien Yen hill chicken, Binh Lieu glass noodles, Van Don fish sauce, and Hoanh Bo guava.

5.4. Extra tips

To make your trip to Quang Ninh Vietnam more enjoyable, you should keep these tips in mind:

  • You can visit Quang Ninh on your own or join a guided tour. If you travel independently, plan to spend around one week. If you join a tour, three or four days are usually enough.
  • If you plan to visit Co To Island, remember to check the weather forecast in advance and avoid traveling during stormy days.
  • When buying souvenirs, it is a good idea to ask around for prices first. This helps you compare and avoid paying too much.
  • For the best experience with the local food, try to visit well-known restaurants. This ensures you can enjoy Quang Ninh’s specialties at their best.
  • To save money on your trip, book your accommodation, flight, or tours early. Early planning can help you find better deals.
Make the most of your time in Quang Ninh Province Vietnam

Make the most of your time in Quang Ninh Province Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Quang Ninh is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences. From the breathtaking karsts of Ha Long Bay to the serene beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay, there is something for every traveler here. By planning your trip wisely, you will fully uncover the beauty of this northern gem! 

Beyond Quang Ninh, Vietnam has so much more to offer. You can wander through the historic streets of Hanoi, immerse yourself in the ancient charm of Hoi An, or unwind on the pristine beaches of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. For those seeking entertainment, the complexes of VinWonders scattered throughout the country bring endless fun. Whether you want to conquer roller coasters, explore underwater worlds, or enjoy dazzling live performances, VinWonders has something exciting to offer. 

To complete your trip, you can indulge in a luxurious stay at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. Here, you will enjoy premium services and breathtaking views for the ultimate relaxation. 

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VinWonders Phu Quoc is a top place for entertainment on the pearl island

 

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VinWonders Nha Trang delights visitors with exciting moments

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VinWonders Nam Hoi An beckons travelers of all ages

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