1. Introduction to the tourist attraction of Quang Ninh during Tet 2026
1.1. Geographical location of Quang Ninh, distance from Hanoi, major cities
Quang Ninh is located in the Northeast region, bordering China and covering an area of 6,178 km². It is famous for Ha Long Bay - a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. From Hanoi, it only takes about three hours by car, covering a distance of 150 to 180 km, to reach Quang Ninh. Those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City can opt for a direct flight to Van Don Airport, taking about two hours, which is convenient for the journey to explore Quang Ninh travel tips during Tet .
Thanks to its special location, Quang Ninh has become a place where Vietnamese and Chinese cultures converge. The synchronized transportation system, especially the Hanoi - Ha Long expressway, contributes to creating favorable conditions for travel during Tet.
Quang Ninh is a top spring travel destination for Tet 2026. (Source: Collected)
1.2. Outstanding characteristics when traveling to Quang Ninh during Tet: cool weather, vibrant festivals, spiritual sites, and natural heritage
During Tet, the weather in Quang Ninh is usually cool and pleasant, with an average temperature ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, which is favorable for outdoor activities. The fresh air and moderate humidity make it easy for tourists to plan visits to many different destinations throughout the day. Major festivals such as Yen Tu and Cua Ong Temple take place from the 2nd day of the Lunar New Year and last until the 3rd lunar month, featuring traditional rituals and many attractive cultural activities.
Spiritual sites like Yen Tu, Ba Vang Pagoda, and Long Tien Pagoda always welcome a large number of people and tourists who come to pray for luck and peace at the beginning of the new year. Ha Long Bay - a world natural heritage site with an area of over 1,500 km² and more than 2,000 large and small limestone islands, showcases its mystical beauty. The blend of unique natural scenery and rich spiritual cultural values makes the Quang Ninh travel experience during Tet always special and meaningful.
1.3. Why is Quang Ninh suitable for a spring journey seeking peace at the beginning of 2026?
Quang Ninh is an intersection of natural landscapes, spiritual spaces, and cultural activities at the beginning of the year, suitable for short spring journeys. Ha Long Bay offers a sense of relaxation amidst its vast space, while Yen Tu is where King Tran Nhan Tong founded the Truc Lam Zen school, opening up a tranquil space for visitors to find inner peace.
Many cultural events such as the Spring Flower Festival and the OCOP Spring Fair 2026 contribute to a rich experience. Tourists can admire natural wonders, immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, participate in spiritual activities, and enjoy the characteristic seafood cuisine. The richness of destinations and activities ensures that each member has their own unique experience throughout the journey.
2. Essential tips for traveling to Quang Ninh during Tet
2.1. Plan ahead - Book services early, flexible itinerary
Determining the appropriate departure date is a crucial factor in the Quang Ninh travel experience during Tet. It is advisable to prioritize choosing from the 2nd to the 8th day of Tet to enjoy the trip without encountering excessive crowds on the 1st day. During this period, attractions are open as usual, allowing tourists to easily manage their experience time.
It is recommended to book tours, hotel rooms, and cruises about three to four weeks in advance, as many places are fully booked during this time. Resort systems by the bay and luxury cruises often fill up quite early. The itinerary should be set flexibly, with alternative plans in place for sudden weather changes, such as switching outdoor activities to indoor ones or reordering the visiting points.
Prepare backup solutions for transportation, especially for routes to islands or mountains, as fog can sometimes affect visibility. Booking services online early often brings preferential prices and ensures quality during peak season.
Master the experience for a smooth, safe spring trip. (Source: Collected)
2.2. Notes on health, weather, and local customs
Preparing suitable clothing is extremely important when visiting Quang Ninh. You should bring a warm jacket, a waterproof windbreaker, and sturdy sports shoes for easy hiking up Yen Tu Mountain or visiting stone caves. Temperatures in the mountains and coastal areas can change rapidly, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
When visiting spiritual sites like Yen Tu, Ba Vang Pagoda, pay attention to dressing politely, avoiding revealing shoulders or knees, maintaining general hygiene, and speaking softly. For sacred areas, please adhere to regulations regarding photography and incense burning to maintain a solemn atmosphere.
It is advisable to prepare personal medications, especially motion sickness medicine if you plan to take a cruise. Bottled water and snacks will be very useful for long hikes or sightseeing trips. In reality, thorough preparation beforehand will make the Tet holiday trip smoother and safer.
2.3. Experience choosing transportation during Tet
Tourists departing from Hanoi can choose sleeper buses or limousines to get to Ha Long, with a travel time of about three hours and prices ranging from 200,000 to 400,000 VND per ticket, depending on the vehicle type and route. The 16-seater limousine bus is favored by many for its amenities such as massage seats, free wifi, and door-to-door pick-up and drop-off services.
If you are departing from other provinces, you can choose to fly to Van Don Airport and then travel by inter-provincial bus for about 50 km to reach the main tourist destinations. Currently, Van Don Airport has many domestic flight routes, significantly saving travel time.
To get good tickets during Tet, you should book in advance through reputable agents or applications. Many bus companies offer promotions for early bookings about 30 days in advance, with prices potentially reduced by 15 to 20% compared to buying individually. Prioritize choosing transportation providers with good service reviews and punctuality to ensure a complete itinerary.
3. Unmissable destinations when traveling to Quang Ninh during Tet
3.1. Yen Tu - A journey to 
Must-visit destinations for your Tet spring trip to Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Ba Vang Pagoda - The Sacred Symbol of Quang Ninh
Ba Vang Pagoda is located on Cam Mountain, with a vast area and unique Buddhist architecture. The space is designed in harmony with nature, creating a sense of peace and relaxation for all visitors. During Tet, the solemn and profound New Year's prayer ceremonies take place here.
A highlight at Ba Vang Pagoda is the 10m tall Quan Am Buddha statue, one of the tallest in the country. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in prayer ceremonies, light incense, and admire the panoramic view of Uong Bi city from above. Structures like the Tam Quan Gate, Main Hall, and Bell Tower all exude traditional beauty, closely linked to Buddhist culture.
A visit to Ba Vang Pagoda can be combined with Yen Tu due to the short distance of only 15 km. Quang Ninh Tet travel experience suggests dedicating 2 to 3 hours to explore the entire pagoda complex. The most beautiful spots for photos are around the Quan Am statue and the front yard of the Main Hall, offering a wide view of the mountains.
3.3. Cua Ong Temple - Pray for career success and explore Bai Tu Long Bay
Cua Ong Temple, dedicated to General Tran Quoc Tang, is located by Bai Tu Long Bay in Cam Pha. The temple festival begins on the second day of Tet with a palanquin procession and many unique traditional cultural activities. Visitors come not only to pray for career and academic success but also to admire the natural beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay.
The temple's architecture retains its traditional style with sections such as the Tam Quan Gate, Front Hall, and Harem. Standing from the temple grounds, you will see the entire bay with rocky islands dotted on the jade-green water. The quiet, sacred atmosphere brings peace and tranquility.
It takes about an hour by car to travel from Ha Long to Cua Ong Temple. Combining a visit to the temple with a boat trip on Bai Tu Long Bay will allow you to fully appreciate the beauty of the area. In particular, the sunsets in this region are stunning, creating wonderful souvenir photos for your spring trip.
3.4. Ha Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island - Spring cruises and entertainment activities
Experiencing a Ha Long Bay cruise is an indispensable activity in the Quang Ninh Tet travel experience. Cruise tours last from four to eight hours, taking you to explore Sung Sot Cave with its unique stalactites, Ti Top Island famous for its white sandy beach and exciting kayaking activities. If you choose an overnight tour, you will also have the opportunity to watch the sunset and sunrise over the bay.
Sung Sot Cave covers nearly 10,000 m², consisting of three large chambers with strange stalactite formations. Ti Top Island not only has a clear blue beach but also a trail leading to the summit for panoramic views of the bay from above. Kayaking offers a chance to explore small caves and shallow waters around.
Tuan Chau Island is an entertainment destination suitable for all family members, featuring the vibrant Dragon Park, dolphin shows, international circus performances, an artificial beach, a mini-golf course, and many water sports activities. In the evening, a water music show and fireworks create a festive atmosphere, fostering a sense of community for families during Tet.
3.5. Suggested interesting spots for Tet: Sun World Ha Long, Tra Co, Marker 1305, Bai Tho Mountain
Tet Nguyên Đán at Sun World Ha Long is vibrant with a series of festival activities – enjoying festivals – playing festivals lasting from the first day of Tet. On the very first day of the year, visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere of lion dances to welcome the spring at the Sun Hill and receive lucky money at the Ocean Gate. From the second to the fifth day, the resort offers many Tet-flavored experiences such as calligraphers gifting chữ (Vietnamese calligraphy), Dong Ho painting workshops at the Sun Gate, or a cozy Banh Chung corner at Fuji Restaurant.
Alongside these are spectacular performance and entertainment activities such as the "Around Tet Vietnam" minishow, "Khuc Hoa Xuan" minishow, and magical illusion shows taking place from the first day of Tet at the Sun Stage and Japanese Garden, along with Xam singing performances on the second and fourth days at Bao Hai Linh Thong Tu. The festive atmosphere is further enlivened by a Tet horse racing game held from the second to the fifth day at the Sun Wheel, bringing joyful, bonding moments to visitors in the early days of the new year.
Bai Chay Night Market operates from 6 PM, featuring hundreds of stalls selling specialties, souvenirs, and street food. During Tet, the night market becomes even more lively with the Spring Flower Festival, folk art performances, and traditional games.
Bai Tho Mountain is 200m high, and the trek takes about 20 to 30 minutes, suitable for many age groups. The summit is a great place to admire the panoramic view of Ha Long Bay. Additionally, there are historical relics and stone-carved poems by many famous figures. Tra Co and Marker 1305 in Mong Cai offer an experience of exploring the border region and the unique culture of Vietnam's northeastern tip.
4. Quang Ninh Tet Travel Itinerary 3N2D/4N3D Updated 2026
4.1. Detailed 3-Day 2-Night Itinerary Suggestion
Day 1: Depart from Hanoi in the morning for Ha Long, check into the hotel, then join a bay cruise tour in the afternoon. Visit Sung Sot Cave with its diverse stalactites, then head to Ti Top Island for swimming and sightseeing. In the evening, visitors can experience entertainment shows on Tuan Chau Island and enjoy fresh seafood.
Day 2: Begin the spiritual journey by cable car to Yen Tu, visit Hoa Yen Pagoda and Dong Pagoda. Afterwards, continue to Ba Vang Pagoda with its large Quan Am statue, or choose to visit Cua Ong Temple to pray for career success and admire Bai Tu Long Bay. In the evening, explore local cuisine at Bai Chay Night Market, trying dishes like Ha Long squid cake and grilled sea cucumber.
Day 3: During your spring trip in Ha Long, Sun World Ha Long is the connecting point for fun, sightseeing, and relaxation experiences for the family. If time permits, you can visit the Quang Hanh hot spring area to relax. Conclude the itinerary by purchasing specialties from reputable establishments such as squid cake, sea cucumber, and Yen Tu apricot wine as gifts.
A reasonable itinerary helps optimize spring travel time. (Source: Collected)
4.2. Extended 4-day 3-night itinerary (connecting Uong Bi, Dong Trieu)
The four-day, three-night itinerary is suitable for those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Van Don or wanting to explore more about the Quang Ninh travel experience during Tet. You will have more time to visit the Yen Tu area in Uong Bi, Dong Trieu with many rich festival activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Yen Tu festival with traditional rituals, visit local craft villages, and learn about the unique spiritual culture.
The extra day can be spent exploring Tra Co and Marker 1305 in Mong Cai, experiencing the feeling of standing at the northeasternmost point of the country. Or choose a tour to Quan Lan island, with its pristine beaches and traditional fishing villages. This itinerary helps visitors understand more about the nature, culture, and people of Quang Ninh.
5. Experience Quang Ninh's cuisine and specialties during Tet
5.1. Top must-try dishes
Quang Ninh's cuisine in the Quang Ninh travel experience during Tet is impressive with Ha Long squid cake made from fresh squid from the bay. Van Don sea cucumber has a natural sweetness, and is attractively prepared by grilling or deep-frying. Quang Ninh cuisine during Tet is notable for its simply prepared seafood dishes, preserving the natural flavors of the sea.
Quang Yen's nem chua (fermented pork roll) is slightly sour, flavorful when eaten with fresh herbs and a special dipping sauce. Tien Yen chicken is famous for its chewy, fragrant meat, often prepared by boiling or grilling. Dong Trieu's yellow sticky rice is fragrant and chewy, favored for traditional Tet desserts.
Bai Chay night market and food streets are ideal places to enjoy fresh seafood prepared on the spot. With a bustling atmosphere and many small seaside stalls, you can enjoy delicious food while admiring the sparkling lights of Ha Long Bay at night.
Quang Ninh cuisine is attractive with fresh, special seafood. (Source: Collected)
5.2. Tips for Buying Specialties as Gifts for Tet
To ensure quality and reasonable prices, you should buy specialties at OCOP Fairs or Bai Chay Night Market. Delicious squid cake has a natural yellow color, good elasticity, and no strange smell. Quality dried sea worms are usually light yellow, uniform in size, and carefully packaged. When choosing Yen Tu apricot wine, pay attention to the expiration date, and prioritize bottles with clear authentication stamps.
It is advisable to buy from reputable stores, recommended by locals, or with good reviews on travel sites. Especially, check the packaging and expiration date carefully to ensure the product is good when brought home as a gift. Currently, many stores have professional packaging services and support home delivery, which is very convenient if you are traveling by plane.
Quang Ninh Travel Experience during Tet 2026 offers a complete spring travel journey with a perfect combination of magnificent natural heritage, sacred spiritual spaces, and rich cultural festivals. Prepare your luggage and plan now to enjoy a "magical Tet" where nature and spirituality converge, creating memorable moments for the whole family!