Ha Long Bay is famous for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring nearby cities like Hanoi. With countless options, from quick boat excursions to comprehensive city tours, you can tailor your experience to fit your schedule and interests. Our favorites include a private full-day Hanoi trip that dives into Vietnam’s capital highlights, and a scenic boat tour that captures the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay itself. Whether you want history, culture, or just a relaxing cruise, there’s something here for every traveler. For example, the Hanoi in a day from Halong city offers an efficient way to experience Hanoi’s top sights without a fuss.
For those seeking a quick but immersive experience, the Halong bay 4 hours boat tour from Halong city combines stunning views with visits to caves and kayaking. If a more comprehensive exploration of Hanoi’s streets and history is what you’re after, the Best of Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion is a flexible, full-day option full of iconic sites. And for travelers with more time, the Hanoi 2 Days 1 Night from Halong City blends a scenic bay cruise with a night in Vietnam’s capital. Below, we compare these top choices to help you decide which suits your trip best.
1. Hanoi in a day from Halong city
At number 1, this private full-day tour is perfect for cruise passengers who want to see Hanoi without sacrificing precious time. It starts with a convenient pickup in Ha Long city, followed by a scenic 2-hour drive to Hanoi. The tour includes visits to key sites such as the Hanoi Opera House, the Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, all highlights that showcase Vietnam’s culture and history. The tour is highly customizable, which is great if you have particular interests or want to skip certain stops.
The inclusion of a tasty Vietnamese meal at a traditional restaurant adds to the experience, making it a good value for a full day. Reviewers praise the professionalism of the driver and guide, noting how efficiently they manage the long travel times and sightseeing. One detailed review mentions, “Our guide Ivy was absolutely superb,” which speaks to the quality of the guiding. The private car ensures comfort, and the flexibility means you can prioritize what interests you most.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for cruise passengers who want an all-in-one Hanoi experience without the hassle of organizing logistics. It’s well-rated, personalized, and includes key sights in a manageable day.
2. Halong bay 4 hours boat tour from Halong city with 2 caves, kayak
Number 2 on our list, this 4-hour boat tour offers a beautiful snapshot of Ha Long Bay’s natural wonders. It’s the only group boat tour in Halong City that runs for this duration and includes visits to Dông Thiên Cung and Dau Go Cave, two of the bay’s most impressive formations. The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to kayak or take a bamboo boat into Ba Hang lagoon, adding an active element to your trip.
This tour stands out because it combines a comfortable cruise with options for adventure, all at a very competitive price. Reviewers like Monica describe the guide as “phenomenal,” with great knowledge and friendly service, making the experience more meaningful. The tour’s shorter length makes it ideal for travelers with limited time, but it still delivers the essential scenic and cultural highlights of the bay.
While it doesn’t include the full breadth of Ha Long Bay’s islands, it’s perfect if you want a high-standard, scenic boat ride with some fun activities. Keep in mind, kayaking requires bringing extra clothes, but that’s a small trade-off for the experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a scenic, active cruise with caves and kayaking in a manageable 4-hour window. Excellent value for its quality.
3. Best of Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion from Halong Bay Port
Number 3 is the full-day private tour designed for cruise passengers looking for a flexible, comprehensive Hanoi experience. It begins with a pickup directly from the Halong Bay cruise port, making logistics easy. The itinerary includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake—a perfect mix of history, culture, and local life.
What sets this tour apart is its customization. You can choose which sites to prioritize and even add or skip activities, making it very traveler-friendly. The inclusion of a delicious Vietnamese lunch in the Old Quarter is a real plus. With reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, it’s clear this tour is well-managed. One traveler noted, “Our guide Mickey was very informative and allowed us to be flexible,” highlighting the personalized touch.
The cost is slightly higher, but the value lies in the tailored experience and the convenience of door-to-door service. It’s ideal for those who want an in-depth, personalized exploration of Hanoi without the stress.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a flexible, full-day, private experience with a knowledgeable guide and included lunch.
4. Hanoi 2 Days 1 Night From Halong City (Shore Excursion)
Number 4 offers an extended two-day experience combining a scenic bay cruise with a night in Hanoi. It begins with a private boat tour of Halong Bay, followed by visits to Dông Thiên Cung and the Old Quarter. The second day is dedicated to exploring Hanoi’s major sites, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a deeper dive into both the bay and the Vietnamese capital. The itinerary includes a night in Hanoi, giving time to explore more leisurely and enjoy local cuisine. Reviewers emphasize the smooth logistics and the quality of guides, mentioning how flexible the tour is, especially with optional activities like a food tour at night.
While it’s priced higher, the two-day format offers excellent value for travelers who want a more comprehensive experience without rushing. It suits those with a little extra time and a desire to really immerse themselves.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a balanced, two-day experience combining scenic beauty and cultural exploration, with the comfort of guided planning.
5. Hue: City Day Trip by Private Car with Optional Destination
Number 5 is a day trip to Hue, Vietnam’s ancient imperial city. For only about $14, this tour offers a flexible way to see the major sights, with a private driver and the option to customize your itinerary. You could visit the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, or other sites depending on your interests.
While this tour is simple and affordable, it’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer to set their own pace. The reviews mention how Anh, the driver, speaks good English and provides local insights, making for a relaxed day of sightseeing. It’s not a guided tour with a detailed narrative but more of a personalized chauffeur service.
If you’re short on time but still want to glimpse Vietnam’s royal history, this is a practical pick. Just keep expectations in check—you’ll have the freedom to choose, but perhaps less in-depth commentary.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget travelers who want to customize their visit to Hue without the need for a guided tour.
6. Discover The Hidden Beauty of Hanoi City from Halong Cruise Port
Number 6 offers a full-day guided tour of Hanoi, designed for travelers who want to experience the city’s famous landscapes and cultural sites in depth. It starts with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, then continues with the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on discovering Hanoi’s diverse faces—from historic landmarks to modern streets. Reviewers highlight how the guide shared detailed stories and insights, making the experience engaging. The tour includes lunch and covers a lot within 9 to 12 hours, perfect for travelers with a full day to spare.
It’s a comprehensive option that balances sightseeing with some leisure time, ideal for those wanting a complete Hanoi introduction without rushing. The reviews suggest it’s well-organized and offers a genuine feel for Vietnam’s capital.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a detailed, guided exploration of Hanoi’s top sights in one day.
$149.00 per person
7. Special Halong City Tour
Number 7 is a private full-day tour focusing on Ha Long’s local culture and history. It includes visits to Sun World Ha Long Complex, offering panoramic views from the hilltop, and stops at Quang Ninh Museum and local markets. The trip also explores the Seafood Market, giving insight into the region’s rich maritime life.
This tour is unique because it blends cultural visits with scenic viewpoints, making it perfect for travelers who want to understand Ha Long beyond just its natural beauty. The reviews note the flexibility of the guide and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. It’s also designed for those interested in local life, not just sightseeing.
It’s a good value at $55, especially for those who want a more in-depth look at Ha Long’s culture and a panoramic view of the city from Sun World. It’s best suited for travelers interested in local markets and scenic vistas.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for travelers who want a cultural and scenic overview of Ha Long City in about 6 hours.
$55.00 per person
8. Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island Half-Day Tour From Halong City
And finally, number 8 offers a half-day adventure focusing on Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. It features a buffet lunch on board, an electric car ride through Cat Ba’s forest, and a visit to Trung Trang Cave. The highlight is the chance to kayak in the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay, avoiding the crowds of more popular spots.
This tour provides a peaceful alternative to the busier parts of Ha Long Bay, appealing to those who want tranquility mixed with adventure. Reviewers mention the magnificent Trung Trang Cave and the scenic electric car ride as standout moments. It’s ideal if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed trip with options for active exploration.
Because it’s a half-day tour, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time or as a supplement to a longer stay. The tour’s focus on serenity and nature makes it a solid choice for nature lovers.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a peaceful, active half-day exploring Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay’s quieter, pristine waters.
$63.00 per person
How to Choose the Best City Tour in Ha Long Bay
When selecting your perfect tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest level. For example, if you want a comprehensive city experience with culture, the Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion is a top pick. For a quick, scenic escape, the Halong Bay 4-hour boat tour offers a taste of the bay’s natural beauty. If you love active adventures, the kayak-inclusive tours stand out, while those craving a luxurious, relaxing experience might opt for multi-day options with overnight stays.
Timing also matters. Book early in the high season (October to April) to secure your preferred date, especially for popular tours like the private shore excursions or multi-day trips. Remember, some tours are customizable, so don’t hesitate to communicate your preferences.
Final Thoughts
Ha Long Bay’s surrounding cities are packed with diverse experiences—whether you’re interested in Vietnam’s history, natural scenery, or local culture. For a balanced, guided exploration, the Hanoi in a day from Halong city hits the mark, especially for cruise travelers. If you prefer shorter, activity-rich boat trips, the Halong Bay 4 hours boat tour offers stunning sights with options for kayaking.
Travelers with more time should consider the two-day Hanoi experience, which combines scenic bay cruises with in-depth city exploration. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you get the best seats and guides, making your trip in Ha Long Bay truly memorable.