Traveling to Ha Long During Tet: Essential Information You Need to Know!

 What’s the Weather Like in Ha Long???

For Tet 2025, Ha Long offers exceptionally ideal weather conditions for travelers. In January, you can immerse yourself in fresh air with clear blue skies, gentle sunshine, and comfortable temperatures around 18°C. Occasionally, light fog creates rare and romantic scenery. Moving into February—the time of Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year)—temperatures slightly decrease, ranging from approximately 10 to 20°C. Early morning mists create a mystical natural landscape, especially perfect for photography enthusiasts. Visitors should prepare warm clothing such as thick jackets, sweaters, and scarves to stay comfortable.

Transportation Options to Ha Long

To travel to Ha Long, tourists have many options that suit their needs and budgets. If you want to have control over your schedule, a personal vehicle is the ideal mode of transportation with a journey time of approximately 2.5-3 hours via the Hanoi–Hai Phong and Hai Phong–Ha Long expressways.

• Limousine Buses: For those who prefer not to drive themselves, bus services priced from 150,000–200,000 VND per person or more premium limousines priced between 180,000–300,000 VND per person are popular choices.
• Private Car Rental to Ha Long: You can also rent a private car to travel from Hanoi to Ha Long at discounted rates, offering great comfort without worrying about the roads.
• By Air: Travelers from Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang can choose to fly to Van Don Airport, and then travel an additional approximately 50 km to reach the city center.
• Motorcycle Rental to Explore Ha Long: Once in Ha Long, getting around the city is very convenient with motorcycle rental services priced from 120,000–200,000 VND per day. For larger groups or families, taxis or private car rentals are the optimal solutions to comfortably visit tourist attractions.

Top Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss During Tet in Ha Long

Check-in at Ha Long Flower Park

Ha Long Flower Park is an unmissable destination during Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year). Spanning an area of 18 hectares, the park is designed with various sections, resembling a vibrant painting filled with blooming flowers. Visitors can freely take photos in a space brimming with spring colors, from colorful chrysanthemum beds to vibrant clusters of roses. Especially during Tet, the park is adorned with additional unique landscapes, creating impressive check-in spots for visitors.

Visiting Temples to Pray for Peace

Ha Long has many famous temples that are ideal spiritual destinations at the beginning of the year. Long Tien Temple, with its Nguyen-era architecture, attracts a large number of Buddhists who come to offer incense and pray for peace. It is especially beautiful in the spring atmosphere with incense smoke and the ringing of bells. Loi Am Temple, located on Linh Thu Mountain, is notable for the festival on the 27th day of the first lunar month, where visitors can both pray and enjoy the stunning views of Ha Long Bay. Additionally, visitors can visit some other famous temples such as Ba Vang Temple, Cai Bau Temple, Giai Oan Temple, and Ngoa Van Temple – important spiritual destinations in this region.

Participate in Unique Festivals in Ha Long

Ha Long is renowned for three distinctive traditional festivals that embody the rich cultural identity of the local community.

• Den Cua Ong Festival: One of the largest festivals in Quảng Ninh, the Den Cua Ong Festival takes place from the 2nd day of the first lunar month to the third lunar month. It commemorates the contributions of Trần Quốc Tảng and other generals of the Trần Dynasty, with the highlight being the solemn procession of ceremonial palanquins.
• Tien Cong Festival: Held from the 5th to the 7th day of the first lunar month on Hai Nam Island, the Tien Cong Festival aims to honor the 17 Tien Cong who played significant roles in maritime expansion. The festival features the “Ra cỗ họ” ceremony and special rites dedicated to elderly individuals aged 80-100 years.
• Yen Tu Festival: The most notable of the three, the Yen Tu Festival is one of the largest northern festivals, lasting from the 10th day of the first lunar month to the third lunar month. It attracts tens of thousands of Buddhists and tourists for pilgrimage, participating in a variety of cultural activities such as the opening drum ceremony, bell ringing, and numerous traditional folk games.

These festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural heritage of Ha Long, making them unmissable events during Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year).

Cruising in Ha Long

Today, Ha Long Bay has become a luxurious destination with a fleet of modern cruise ships, offering visitors unique experiences ranging from day tours to overnight stays in the bay.

You can choose from day cruises around the bay with journeys lasting 6 hours or 7 hours, overnight cruises on the bay, or evening cruises with dinner and fireworks viewing.

Cruises such as Luna, Ambassador, and Saquila Yacht stand out with their luxurious designs and top-class amenities, providing an opportunity to explore the magnificent beauty of this world natural heritage site in a distinctive way.

During the journey, visitors will admire stunning caves with unique stalactites, visit peaceful traditional fishing villages, and immerse themselves in the spectacular scenery of the entire bay. Every viewpoint offers a different experience of Ha Long’s beauty.

Key Events During Tet and the Arrival of Spring in Ha Long 2025

During Tet Ất Tỵ (the Year of the Earth Snake) in 2025, Ha Long will come alive with a vibrant array of cultural events, celebrating both the Lunar New Year and the arrival of spring. Here are the standout events you can look forward to:

• Quảng Ninh OCOP Fair – Spring 2025 (January 17-22)
  • Description: One of the largest fairs in the region, showcasing a wide variety of local specialty products.
  • Highlights: Opportunity to explore and purchase unique handcrafted items, local delicacies, and traditional goods representing Quảng Ninh’s rich cultural heritage.
• Spring Flower Festival and Ornamental Fish Exhibition (January 19-28)
  • Description: A colorful celebration bringing the vibrant essence of spring to Ha Long.
  • Highlights: Stunning displays of blooming flowers, a diverse range of ornamental fish, and activities that capture the lively spirit of the season.
• 95th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Communist Party of Vietnam Exhibition (January 15 – February 25)
  • Description: A significant exhibition commemorating nearly a century since the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
  • Highlights: Comprehensive displays of historical documents, photographs, and memorabilia that highlight the party’s contributions and milestones.
• Tet Cultural Space Festival of Ethnic Groups in Quảng Ninh Province (January 22 – February 2)
  • Description: A festival celebrating the diverse cultures of the various ethnic groups residing in Quảng Ninh.
  • Highlights: Traditional performances, cultural exhibitions, and interactive activities that offer deep insights into the customs and traditions of the region’s ethnic communities.
• Spring Book and Newspaper Fair Ất Tỵ (January 23 – February 21)
  • Description: An extensive fair dedicated to literature and media, aligning with the Tet festivities.
  • Highlights: A vast selection of books, newspapers, and magazines, along with author meet-and-greets, book signings, and cultural discussions that enrich the literary landscape of Ha Long.

These events provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Ha Long, making your visit during Tet 2025 an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in shopping for local crafts, enjoying vibrant festivals, or exploring historical exhibitions, Ha Long has something special to offer during this festive season.

Famous Restaurants in Ha Long

Ha Long is not only renowned for its stunning bay but also attracts visitors with its diverse and exquisite culinary offerings. Below are some popular dining establishments that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this coastal city:

1. Hong Hanh 3 Restaurant
   • Address: 50 Ha Long, Bai Chay Ward
2. Sen A Đông Buffet Restaurant
   • Address: 1 Ha Long, Bai Chay Ward
3. Bằng Lăng Restaurant
   • Address: Group 1, Area 2, Hong Ha Ward
4. Bà Yến’s Squid Rice Rolls (Bánh Cuốn Chả Mực Bà Yến)
   • Address: 36 Doan Thi Diem, Bach Dang Ward
5. Huy Chiên’s Bún Bề Bề
   • Address: 9 Ton That Thuyet, Hong Hai Ward
6. Kỳ Hường Béo’s Bún Cù
   • Address: 20 Tan Mai, Bai Chay Ward
7. Cô Cương’s Yogurt with Tapioca Pearls (Sữa Chua Trân Châu Cô Cương)
   • Address: 29 Minh Khai Street, Ha Lam Ward
8. Ngọc Phương Nam Restaurant
   • Addresses:
     • Branch 1: Đỗ Sĩ Họa Street, Cai Dam Industrial Park, Bai Chay
     • Branch 2: LV2-3, LV2-4, Lot OSL 3, Sun Premier Village, Ha Long

These restaurants offer a variety of local and international dishes, ensuring that every visitor can find something to satisfy their taste buds while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Ha Long.

Recommended Beautiful Cafes in Ha Long for Tet

Enhance your Tet Ha Long travel experience by stopping at cafes with stunning views and delicious beverages. Below are the ideal cafes for check-ins and enjoying the early spring atmosphere that you shouldn’t miss:

1. La Luna Coffee Ha Long
   • Address: 780 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward
   • Description: A cozy spot offering a variety of beverages with picturesque views of Ha Long Bay. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the serene morning or evening landscapes.
2. Pamela Coffee
   • Address: 80 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay
   • Description: Known for its stylish interior and excellent coffee, Pamela Coffee is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
3. CAM Café
   • Address: Column 3, Hai Loc Street, Hong Hai Ward
   • Description: A trendy café situated in a vibrant neighborhood, CAM Café offers a wide range of drinks and snacks. The modern décor and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for socializing and enjoying Tet festivities.
4. Mermey Coffee Bai Chay
   • Address: 18 Bo Nau, Bai Chay
   • Description: Offering a comfortable ambiance with high-quality coffee, Mermey Coffee is perfect for unwinding after exploring Ha Long’s attractions. The friendly staff and cozy seating arrangements enhance the overall experience.
5. Coffee Ê ĐÊ
   • Address: Lu Hung Street, Bai Chay Ward
   • Description: A popular local café known for its creative coffee flavors and friendly atmosphere. Coffee Ê ĐÊ is a great place to enjoy a unique coffee experience while soaking in the local culture.
6. Rock King Coffee (Koi Ha Long)
   • Address: Ao Ca Lake, Cai Dam Street, Hung Thang Ward
   • Description: Featuring a unique setting by Ao Ca Lake, Rock King Coffee offers a tranquil environment perfect for enjoying your drink while taking in the natural beauty of Ha Long. The scenic views make it an excellent spot for memorable photos during Tet

Souvenirs to Buy in Ha Long

When visiting Ha Long, tourists shouldn’t miss the opportunity to purchase famous local specialties as gifts. Here are some standout items you should consider bringing back:

1. Dried Squid and Ha Long Squid Paste (Chả Mực Hạ Long)
   • Description: These delicacies are made from fresh squid harvested from the bay, offering a rich and distinctive flavor that is unparalleled.
2. Shrimp Floss (Ruốc Tôm)
   • Description: Made from finely ground and sun-dried fresh sea shrimp, shrimp floss is perfect as a seasoning or to accompany hot rice dishes.
3. Yen Tu Plum Wine (Rượu Mơ Yên Tử)
   • Description: Renowned for its light and smooth taste, this wine is crafted from ripe plums grown on Yen Tu Mountain, providing a refreshing beverage option.
4. Quang Ninh Grilled Pork Skewers (Nem Chạo Quảng Ninh)
   • Description: Characterized by its rich and savory flavor, these grilled pork skewers are a popular choice among tourists looking for authentic local snacks.
5. Dried Scallops (Sá Sùng Khô)
   • Description: Known as the “ginseng of the sea,” dried scallops are a prized seafood delicacy. Despite their higher price, they remain a sought-after gift for their quality and prestige.