Top 10 Destinations Near Ha Long Worth Visiting: Yen Tu, Cat Ba, Hai Phong, and Beyond
— Royal Ha Long Editorial Team
If you have extra time in your itinerary, the areas surrounding Ha Long offer many attractive destinations: the sacred Yen Tu Mountain, grand pagodas, remote island beaches, and the historic port city of Hai Phong. Below are 10 destinations to consider for an extended journey. Rating information is sourced from TripAdvisor (October 21, 2026). The distances below are calculated by TripAdvisor (as the crow flies), so actual travel times may be longer.
Choose destinations based on your interests: if you prefer a spiritual journey and mountain scenery, prioritize Yen Tu and Ba Vang Pagoda. If you want a beach getaway, Quan Lan, Cat Ba, and Do Son are excellent choices. If you are interested in urban culture and architecture, the cluster of attractions in central Hai Phong will be ideal.
Note on travel times: these destinations are further from central Ha Long, and actual travel times depend on traffic, your mode of transport, and your starting point. Please depart early, check boat or ferry schedules if traveling to islands, and ask your accommodation provider about shuttle services.
1. Yen Tu Mountain (Uong Bi) – A Spiritual Journey Near Ha Long
Yen Tu is a spiritual sanctuary associated with the Truc Lam Zen Sect, located about 22 miles from Ha Long. TripAdvisor rates it 4.7/5 from 70 reviews. Visitors can hike or take a combination of cable cars to reach the mountaintop pagodas. Plan for a full day and wear comfortable shoes.
Highlights:
- The mountain peak stands at approximately 1,068 meters, where King Tran Nhan Tong practiced asceticism and founded the Truc Lam Zen Sect.
- A combination of hiking and cable cars can be used to reach the pagodas.
- The early spring festival season attracts a large number of visitors and Buddhist pilgrims.
Travel tip: wear non-slip shoes, bring a light jacket as it gets quite cold at high altitudes, and avoid visiting during festival season if you do not like crowds.
2. Ba Vang Pagoda (Uong Bi) – A Grand Pagoda Easy to Combine with Yen Tu
Ba Vang Pagoda is rated 4.8/5 on TripAdvisor and is located about 18 miles from Ha Long. This is a suitable destination for visitors who love temple architecture and serene spaces. It is best combined with Yen Tu on the same day to save travel time.
Highlights:
- TripAdvisor rates it 4.8/5 from 21 reviews.
- Located in the same Uong Bi area as Yen Tu, making it easy to combine into a single itinerary.
- Ideal for visitors who appreciate temple architecture and peaceful spaces.
Travel tip: dress modestly, keep quiet, and do not take photos in areas with restricted signs.
3. Minh Chau Beach (Quan Lan) – A Peaceful Island Beach Near Ha Long
Minh Chau is a famous beach on Quan Lan Island, located further away than other destinations (about 34 miles according to TripAdvisor) and rated 4.1/5. This spot is perfect for a 2-to-3-day leisure trip to swim and escape the crowds.
Highlights:
- The beach is located on Quan Lan Island, Van Don District, Quang Ninh.
- TripAdvisor records a distance of approximately 34 miles from Ha Long.
- Perfect for a relaxing getaway, swimming, and enjoying peaceful scenery.
Travel tip: check the boat schedule to the island and plan to stay at least one night so you do not have to rush.
4. Cat Ba Island – Beaches, Forests, and Trekking Near Lan Ha Bay
Cat Ba is the largest island in the archipelago of the same name, belonging to Hai Phong, featuring beaches like Cat Co (4.3/5 on TripAdvisor) and forest trekking routes. This destination pairs perfectly with Lan Ha Bay. You should spend at least two days if you want to explore comfortably.
Highlights:
- Home to Cat Ba National Park, habitat of the rare Cat Ba langur.
- Cat Co Beach is rated 4.3/5 on TripAdvisor.
- Can be easily combined with Lan Ha Bay in the same itinerary.
Travel tip: you should spend at least two days and one night to enjoy both the beach and trekking, and book your room early for weekends and summer.
5. Do Son Beach – Beach Getaway and Hai Phong Seafood
Do Son is a long-established beach resort area in Hai Phong, located about 24 miles from Ha Long according to TripAdvisor. Visitors enjoy soaking on the beach and savoring local seafood. The rating of 3.3/5 suggests the beach is not the main highlight, so consider this a light relaxation option.
Highlights:
- A beach resort area with a long-standing tradition in Hai Phong.
- Numerous local seafood restaurants are located around the area.
- Rated 3.3/5 on TripAdvisor, suitable for light relaxation rather than a primary sightseeing spot.
Travel tip: choose weekdays to avoid crowds, and ask for seafood prices before ordering.
6. Tam Bac Lake – A Scenic Stroll in the Heart of Hai Phong
Located right in the center of Hai Phong, Tam Bac Lake is a popular spot for locals to stroll, exercise, and enjoy coffee. Rated 3.9/5 on TripAdvisor, it is perfect for an evening walk combined with visits to nearby cultural attractions.
Highlights:
- Located right in the city center, making it easy to combine with nearby cultural sites.
- Ideal for walking, enjoying coffee, and observing local life.
- Rated 3.9/5 on TripAdvisor based on 28 reviews.
Travel tip: Visit in the late afternoon or evening when the weather is cool and the lake is beautifully lit.
7. Hai Phong Opera House – Iconic French Architecture of the Port City
Built during the French colonial period, the Opera House is one of the city's most iconic architectural landmarks. Rated 4.1/5 on TripAdvisor, visitors can admire and photograph its exterior and explore the surrounding central area even if not attending a show.
Highlights:
- Built in the early 20th century in classic French architectural style.
- Rated 4.1/5 on TripAdvisor based on 23 reviews.
- Easy to combine with a photo shoot at Tam Bac Lake and the central area.
Travel tip: If you wish to watch a performance, please check the show schedule prior to your trip.
8. Du Hang Pagoda – An Ancient Temple Rich in Hai Phong Culture
Du Hang Pagoda is an ancient temple in Hai Phong, rated 4.4/5 on TripAdvisor based on 30 reviews. This destination is highly recommended for visitors interested in culture, spirituality, and traditional architecture. Please dress respectfully when visiting.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.4/5 on TripAdvisor based on 30 reviews.
- Perfect for visitors interested in spiritual culture and traditional architecture.
- Easy to combine with other cultural attractions in Hai Phong.
Travel tip: Visit in the morning, dress modestly, and maintain quiet while inside the pagoda.
9. Hang Kenh Communal House – Traditional Wood Carving Artistry
Hang Kenh Communal House is highly rated by travelers (4.6/5 on TripAdvisor) for its ancient architecture and exquisite wood carving artistry. This site is ideal for heritage enthusiasts and architectural photography.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.6/5, among the highest for cultural attractions in Hai Phong.
- Renowned for its traditional wood carving artistry.
- Perfect for those passionate about heritage and architectural photography.
Travel tip: Learn about the communal house's history beforehand and visit during daylight hours to capture the intricate details.
10. Hai Phong Museum – Discover the History of the Port City
Hai Phong Museum showcases the rich history and culture of the port city and is rated 4/5 on TripAdvisor. It is an informative stop to learn about the city before continuing your journey. Please check the opening hours before visiting.
Highlights:
- Rated 4/5 on TripAdvisor based on 23 reviews.
- Showcases the history and culture of the port city.
- A relaxing stop during your day exploring Hai Phong.
Travel tip: Check the opening hours and budget about one to two hours for your visit.
Suggested Extended Itineraries from Ha Long
- One-day spiritual journey: Yen Tu combined with Ba Vang Pagoda. It is recommended to depart early and return to Ha Long by evening.
- Two-to-three-day island getaway: Cat Ba combined with Lan Ha Bay, or Quan Lan for a peaceful retreat.
- Half-day to full-day Hai Phong cultural tour: Opera House, Tam Bac Lake, Hang Kenh Communal House, Du Hang Pagoda, and Hai Phong Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I visit Yen Tu or Cat Ba? Yen Tu is ideal for spiritual journeys, mountain scenery, and can be done in a day. Cat Ba is perfect for beaches, islands, trekking, and requires at least two days.
Can I do a day trip to Hai Phong from Ha Long? Yes, but it is recommended to limit your itinerary to 2-3 central cultural spots to avoid getting too tired.
Which season is best to visit these destinations? The cool weather of spring and autumn is generally more pleasant for climbing and walking. Please check the forecast before your trip.
When is the best time to visit Yen Tu? The early spring festival season is very crowded, while weekdays during the cooler months are usually more pleasant for climbing.
Is an overnight stay necessary? You should stay at least one night in Cat Ba and Quan Lan. Yen Tu and the cultural attractions in Hai Phong can easily be visited in a day.
What are the transport options? You can travel by private car, tour bus, or hotel shuttle. For the islands, please check the boat or ferry schedules before your trip.
Book Directly at Royal Ha Long – The Ideal Starting Point for Your Ha Long Journey
Using Ha Long as your starting point makes trips to Yen Tu, Cat Ba, or Hai Phong much more convenient. Book your room at Royal Ha Long Hotel directly here to easily manage your check-in schedule and receive personalized travel advice for destinations near Ha Long.