Ha Long’s 15 Best Tours

Ha Long Bay is a standout destination for those visiting Vietnam, and its appeal is rooted in the sheer spectacle of thousands of limestone karsts rising from the sea. Whether you’re after a quick taste or an immersive overnight experience, Ha Long offers a variety of tours that showcase its stunning scenery, caves, and islands. We especially like the 8-hour La Casta Daily Cruise for its active itinerary and panoramic views, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a full taste of the bay’s highlights.

From luxury cruises and adventure activities like rock climbing and paragliding to city tours in Hanoi and private excursions, the options are broad. This guide covers the top 15 tours, helping you find the perfect match for your interests, schedule, and budget.

1. Ha Long Bay 8 hours daily tour on LA CASTA DAILY CRUISE

At number 1, the La Casta Daily Cruise provides a well-rounded, activity-packed day in up to 8 hours. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see Halong Bay’s iconic limestone formations. The tour includes exploring Sung Sot Cave, kayaking in Luon Cave, and climbing Titop Island for sweeping panoramic views. What makes this trip stand out is the variety of activities like outdoor Jacuzzi, sunset parties, and a buffet with Vietnamese cuisine on board. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides and the well-maintained boat, with a 4.9/5 rating from 45 reviews. For a balanced, fun-filled day, this tour offers excellent value at $56 per person.

Bottom Line: A lively, activity-rich tour that hits all the must-see sights with a friendly vibe, ideal for travelers short on time.

2. Ha Long Bay: 2-Day Tour with La Pandora Boutique Cruise

Number 2 on our list, the 2-day La Pandora Boutique Cruise offers a cozy, luxurious escape with all meals included. This boutique cruise blends oriental style with modern comfort, making the experience more intimate than larger ships. Highlights include visiting Lan Ha Bay, kayaking, swimming, and even a cooking demonstration. Guests consistently compliment the attentive crew and the delicious, beautifully presented food. Reviewers love how Hung, the guide, combines professionalism with humor, making the trip both relaxing and engaging. The tour costs $129 per person and is perfect for those wanting a more leisurely, immersive experience.

Bottom Line: It’s a great choice if you prefer a luxurious, all-inclusive experience and have two days to enjoy the bay’s quieter corners.

3. Halong bay day tour: Best seller IRIS CRUISE with live band

Coming in at number 3, the IRIS CRUISE offers a six- to twelve-hour day trip with a touch of class. It features a premium international seafood buffet, visits to Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island, and kayak excursions. Unique to this tour is the live band and canapés party on the sundeck, creating a lively, festive atmosphere. Guests praise the hot tub, the efficient service, and the quality of food. The boat’s modern amenities and flexible hours make it suitable for travelers seeking comfort and entertainment.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a more upscale day, with live music and plenty of opportunities to relax on deck.

4. From HaLong cruise Port: Private tour visit Hanoi city

Number 4 is the Private Hanoi City tour from Ha Long port. If your cruise docks in Halong and you want to see Vietnam’s bustling capital, this tailored service is ideal. It’s designed to meet your expectations, with flexible itineraries and hotel pickup and drop-off directly from the cruise port. It’s best suited for travelers on tight schedules who need a customized, efficient city tour to see Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and important landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. At $177 per person, it offers a personalized experience, but it’s worth it for the convenience and focus on your specific interests.

Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a private, hassle-free day exploring Hanoi’s highlights.

5. Cat Ba: Advanced Rock Climbing & Cliff Jumping Boat Tour

Number 5 features the Cat Ba Rock Climbing and Cliff Jumping Tour, ideal for adventure seekers with some climbing experience. This 6.5-hour trip pushes your limits by scaling limestone cliffs and jumping into deep water. It’s led by expert guides who ensure safety while giving you the thrill of conquering challenging cliffs. The scenery of Lan Ha Bay’s towering rock formations adds to the adrenaline rush. Reviewers describe it as an “absolute blast” with stunning views and the right mix of challenge and fun. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with heights and water.

Bottom Line: For adrenaline junkies, this is a memorable, high-energy adventure focusing on limestone cliffs and cliff jumping.

6. Hanoi Full-Day City Group Tour with Lunch and Guide

Number 6 offers a comprehensive day in Hanoi. The Full-Day Hanoi City Tour visits Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Ethnology Museum. It includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch with eight dishes. The guide’s commentary helps you understand Vietnam’s culture and history in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a structured but immersive introduction to Hanoi, especially if it’s your first visit. The $45 cost makes it a solid value for a full-day of sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Great for those who want a guided, educational experience of Hanoi’s highlights with local cuisine included.

7. Hanoi: Half-Day Jeep City Tour, Landmarks & Local Food

Number 7 takes you on a vintage jeep ride through Hanoi’s streets. The Half-Day Jeep Tour visits Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Train Street, and hidden alleys. You’ll dive into local neighborhoods, try egg coffee, and see the city’s key landmarks in a fun, relaxed manner. The tour’s flexible timing makes it suitable for those wanting an efficient yet personalized introduction to Hanoi. At $65 per person, it’s a lively way to see the city in style with plenty of local flavor.

Bottom Line: An engaging, offbeat way to explore Hanoi’s streets and culture, perfect for curious travelers.

8. Hanoi: Walking Street Food & Train Street Culture Tour

Number 8 is the Walking Food & Train Street Tour. For just $22, you’ll stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sampling authentic street foods and watching the famous Train passing on Train Street. It’s a great way to taste local dishes while learning about Hanoi’s daily life and culinary traditions. The guide’s friendly approach makes it easy to ask questions and get a real feel for the city’s informal culinary scene.

Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a casual, authentic experience with plenty of tasty bites.

9. 3 Day – Hanoi City Tour – Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise & Balcony

Number 9 offers a luxurious three-day cruise combining Hanoi and Lan Ha Bay. It includes scenic kayaking, scenic sunset parties, and onboard cooking classes. Guests praise the quality of food and the comfortable accommodations. The itinerary covers both popular sites in Hanoi and hidden corners of Lan Ha Bay, making it perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, relaxed experience. At $401 per person, it’s an investment but offers an upscale way to see the region.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting an all-in-one experience blending city sightseeing with deluxe cruising.

10. Halong Day Cruise Highlights with Big & Small Group Tours

Number 10 features the Halong Bay day cruise, perfect for budget travelers or those seeking flexibility. It includes a seafood lunch, visits to Titop Island and Sung Sot Cave, and options for kayaking or bamboo boat rides. It’s offered in both big and small groups, with several departure times. Reviewers emphasize value for money and the well-organized tours. At $33 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience the highlights without sacrificing much.

Bottom Line: A reliable, affordable choice for a full day of sightseeing, especially if you prefer a smaller group.

11. Halong Bay luxury Iris cruise day tour: Best experience

Number 11 presents the Luxury Iris Cruise, a premium day trip with live music, hot tub, and a buffet lunch. It features visits to Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Ti Top Island, with the option to relax in style. Guests comment on the high quality of service and luxurious amenities, making it a perfect choice for travelers who don’t want to compromise on comfort.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for those seeking a luxury experience with all the comforts and a touch of entertainment.

12. Halong Sky Tour: Powered Paragliding

Number 12, the Paragliding tour, is for thrill-seekers. It offers a 15-minute tandem flight with a professional pilot over Ha Long city, providing breathtaking bird’s-eye views. The experience is easy to book and doesn’t require prior experience. Reviewers describe it as “adrenaline pur” and “something very special”. It’s perfect for those who want a once-in-a-lifetime view of Ha Long.

Bottom Line: A memorable, adrenaline-pumping activity for adventure lovers wanting an unforgettable aerial view.

13. From Halong: 2 Days / 1 night with Halong – Lan Ha tour

Number 13 offers a two-day cruise exploring both Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay. It includes kayaking, swimming, and visiting caves, along with Vietnamese cuisine on board. Guests love the enthusiasm of guide Cody and the variety of activities. The tour combines scenic cruising with authentic experiences and costs $112 per person.

Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a multi-day, active experience that takes you beyond the main tourist spots.

14. From Halong Cruise Port: 4-Hour Boat Tour of Ha Long Bay

Number 14 is a short but sweet option for cruise passengers arriving at Halong International Cruise Port. This 4-hour cruise visits Heavenly Palace Cave and offers kayaking or sampan rides around floating villages. It’s straightforward but gives a taste of the bay’s scenery in a manageable timeframe.

Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise ship travelers who want a quick, scenic outing without overcommitting.

15. Halong Bay: Day Cruise from Halong Port Shore Excursion

Rounding out the list, the Shore Excursion Day Cruise is perfect for passengers on cruise ships. It offers a 4.5-hour cruise exploring Thien Cung Cave and the floating villages. It’s a straightforward, scenic option that emphasizes ease and efficiency.

Bottom Line: A solid choice for cruise passengers seeking a short but scenic experience.

How to Choose Your Perfect Ha Long Tour

When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. If you’re short on time but want to see Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island, the La Casta Cruise offers a lively day. For a more relaxed, luxurious experience, the La Pandora Boutique Cruise is perfect. Cruise fans looking for comfort, entertainment, and scenic beauty might prefer the Iris Cruise or the Lan Ha Bay 3-day cruise. Budget travelers should check out the Big & Small Group Day Tours for affordable full-day options.

Timing also matters—early booking is recommended, especially for popular cruises and activities like powered paragliding.

Final Thoughts

From quick day trips to multi-day cruises, Ha Long offers a range of experiences suited to different tastes and budgets. If you’re interested in adventure activities, try the Cat Ba climbing tour or paragliding for a thrill. For those seeking luxury and comfort, the Lan Ha Bay 5-star cruise or the luxury Iris cruise deliver style with scenery. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable group tours with plenty of highlights.

No matter which experience you choose, make your bookings early—these tours fill up fast, especially during peak season. Whatever your style, Ha Long’s stunning limestone seascape is waiting to impress you.