Experiencing Halong Bay’s beauty is most rewarding through well-organized city tours.
Three standout options make the most of your time and money in this stunning region. The practical Halong Bay Discovery Tour connects Halong City to Ninh Binh in 6 hours (€94.81), offering good value and scheduling flexibility.
I especially love the Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion ($145) – it’s worth every penny for its comfortable minivan transport, knowledgeable guide, and authentic Vietnamese lunch.
Budget travelers should consider the Half-day Inland City Tour (€53.21), which efficiently showcases Ha Long City’s local culture.
Let’s look at what makes these tours special.
Key Points
- Halong Bay Discovery Tour offers a 6-hour boat tour from Halong City to Ninh Binh region with various vehicle options and pricing starting from €94.81 per person.
- Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion provides a private tour from cruise ports to explore Hanoi, starting from $145 per person with a professional local guide and Vietnamese lunch.
- Half-day Inland City Tour focuses on exploring the local life and culture in Ha Long City, including Bai Tho Mountain views and seafood market, starting from €53.21 per person.
- The tours offer mixed reviews regarding organization, communication, and accessibility, with some potential access issues during local festivals.
- Customers should consider their preferences, budget, and accessibility needs when choosing the best city tour in Halong Bay.
Halong Bay Discovery With 6 Hours Boat Tour From Halong City
One popular tour option for exploring Halong Bay is the “Halong Bay Discovery With 6 Hours Boat Tour From Halong City”. This private transfer tour takes visitors from the Halong International Cruise Port to the picturesque Ninh Binh region.
Travelers can choose from various vehicle options, including a 5-seat sedan, SUV, or 17-seat van, depending on the size of their group.
The base price of the tour varies, starting from €94.81 per person, with additional fees for cruise port pickup/drop-off and entry to attractions like Trang An, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave.
While the transportation is wheelchair accessible and strollers are allowed, customers from overseas cruises must reach the check-in counter at the port for pickup.
Reviews of the tour are mixed, with some noting organization and communication issues, as well as confusion around additional fees. Customers are advised to read the inclusions and exclusions carefully before booking.
Despite these concerns, the tour offers scenic views, cave visits, and kayaking opportunities, though the experiences may be crowded.
Read our full review: Halong Bay Discovery With 6 Hours Boat Tour From Halong City Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion From Any Cruise Ports
For travelers embarking on a cruise and seeking to explore the vibrant city of Hanoi, the Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion from Any Cruise Ports offers a comprehensive and flexible sightseeing experience.
Priced from $145 per person, this private tour is operated by Maximus Travel Vietnam and boasts a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews. The tour includes cruise port pickup and drop-off, a professional local guide, and air-conditioned transportation by minivan.
Guests will enjoy a Vietnamese traditional lunch and have the opportunity to see Hanoi’s top attractions at their own pace. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the flexible nature of the tour allows for a customized experience. One reviewer praised the guide, Mickey, for making the drive engaging with karaoke.
Read our full review: Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion From Any Cruise Ports Review
Book now: Check availability
Half-day Inland City Tour From Ha Long
Travelers seeking to venture beyond the picturesque waters of Halong Bay can embark on the Half-day Inland City Tour from Ha Long. This tour offers a glimpse into the local life and culture of the region, with highlights including the stunning Bai Tho Mountain views, the bustling seafood market, the serene Long Tien Pagoda, and the largest church in Quang Ninh Province.
The tour includes bottled water, entrance fees, and transportation, ensuring a seamless experience. Guests can expect an English-speaking guide, with other language options available for an additional fee.
The tour is priced from €53.21 per person, with discounts for children under 10. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.
Based on the positive reviews, the tour provides an excellent introduction to Halong City, combining insights into local life with visits to cultural landmarks. However, guests should be aware of potential access issues due to local festivals.
Read our full review: Half-day Inland City Tour From Ha Long Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Halong Bay offers a variety of captivating city tours that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether it’s a 6-hour boat tour, a private shore excursion from Hanoi, or a half-day inland tour, these experiences provide an immersive and memorable way to discover the wonders of this stunning Vietnamese destination.