1. Why is Quang Ninh tourism in Tet 2026 chosen by many tourists?
Quang Ninh has established a strong position as a prominent destination during Tet thanks to the blend of natural beauty and unique cultural characteristics. Ha Long Bay boasts 1,969 limestone islands, creating a magnificent panorama, while modern entertainment spots like Sun World Ha Long and Tuan Chau enrich the choices for visitors of all ages. Winter in Quang Ninh features cool weather, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 20°C, ideal for outdoor activities.
Quang Ninh attracts visitors during Tet thanks to the perfect combination of Ha Long nature and modern entertainment. (Source: Collected)
1.1. Quang Ninh - The "capital" of coastal, spiritual, and Tet entertainment in the Northern region
The winter atmosphere in Quang Ninh offers a unique experience with a light mist covering the water, creating a dreamy landscape. Limestone formations appear faintly in the white mist, opening up opportunities for impressive photos that cannot be found everywhere. When sitting on the Paradise Delight cruise during a 7-hour journey to explore the bay, visitors not only have the chance to admire Ti Top Island and Sung Sot Cave but also immerse themselves in a quiet and relaxing space. Kayaking among the small islands allows for a complete sense of peace, while night squid fishing offers an exciting experience for everyone.
Quang Ninh Tet tourism is also very popular due to the harmony between coastal resorts and spiritual culture. Yen Tu is where King Tran Nhan Tong founded the Truc Lam Zen sect, and every early year, it welcomes a large number of visitors for worship. Ba Vang Pagoda and Cua Ong Temple often organize peace-seeking rituals, creating a sacred space for those seeking a peaceful and lucky new year. Alongside visiting heritage sites, tourists can continue their journey at Sun World Ha Long and Tuan Chau – entertainment highlights within Sun Group's tourism ecosystem.
1.2. Record attraction Tet 2026: Visitor numbers surge, services upgraded
Ha Long Bay on the first day of 2026 welcomed over 12,100 visitors, the majority of whom were foreigners, demonstrating the great appeal of Quang Ninh Tet tourism on the international tourism map. The consecutive 4-day holiday from January 1 to 4, 2026, created a special peak tourism period.
To meet the increasing demand, businesses have proactively upgraded services and introduced many new products. Sun World Ha Long organized additional spectacular fireworks displays on New Year's Eve. Cruises like Athena also added music programs and galas right on the bay. Therefore, pre-booking services is essential, especially for overnight cruise tours or entrance tickets to major entertainment areas.
2. Timing and trends of "Quang Ninh Tet tourism" in 2026
Grasping the timing trends helps tourists plan a complete spring trip in the mining land. (Source: Collected)
The year 2026 brings two Tet occasions with their own unique characteristics, thereby creating two distinct tourism trends in Quang Ninh. Understanding the differences will help tourists easily plan according to their preferences and desires.
2.1. Comparison of Quang Ninh Tourism during Gregorian New Year and Lunar New Year
The Gregorian New Year lasts from January 1 to 4, 2026, bringing an international atmosphere with vibrant Countdown events. October 30 Square in Ha Long becomes a meeting point for many young people when a high-altitude fireworks festival takes place on the night of December 31. The cool weather, around 15-18°C, is very suitable for outdoor activities such as kayaking, night squid fishing, or cruising. All services at Sun World Ha Long and Tuan Chau Island operate at maximum capacity to serve a large number of guests, especially international tourists.
Meanwhile, the Lunar New Year, from February 14 to 22, 2026, focuses on traditional values. The flower avenue "Heritage Spring - Digital Wonder" appears at Hoa Hong Gai Park, October 30 Square, and the Provincial Museum - Library area, decorated with mascots, LED lights, and folk games. A grand concert on January 25, 2026, gathers many famous singers such as My Tam and Tung Duong, along with a dazzling fireworks display. The traditional Tet cultural space of the ethnic groups in the province highlights the unique identity of Quang Ninh.
2.2. "Golden" Tour Types/Periods in 2026
With a 4-day holiday for the Gregorian New Year, short tours of 2 to 3 days are very suitable. Accordingly, tourists can choose the Paradise Delight cruise to explore Ha Long Bay for 7 hours, combining a visit to Sun World Ha Long and a pilgrimage to Yen Tu. For those with more time, a 4-day, 3-night tour package will help add destinations like Tuan Chau, Quang Ninh Museum, or the experience of hot spring bathing at Quang Hanh.
The series of Lunar New Year events from February 14 to 22 are ideal for cultural and spiritual exploration tours. During this time, tourists should prioritize attending festivals, enjoying traditional specialties, and immersing themselves in the community atmosphere. 3-4 day tours will help fully explore spiritual sites as well as participate fully in local festival activities.
3. Transportation Guide to Quang Ninh During Tet
Diverse transportation systems help visitors easily choose means to get to Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Planning a thorough itinerary will help you be proactive about time and costs for the trip travel Quang Ninh Tet. Currently, many diverse means of transport from Hanoi as well as major provinces and cities to Quang Ninh create favorable conditions for visitors to choose.
3.1. Itinerary from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and provinces to Quang Ninh
From Hanoi, you can choose to take a limousine from My Dinh or Gia Lam bus station to Ha Long with a travel time of about 2.5 to 3 hours, ticket prices ranging from 180,000-250,000 VND. If you choose the train from Hanoi station to Ha Long station, it will take you about 4 hours of travel, this option is suitable for families with young children thanks to the comfortable space. For those who want to save time, flying to Van Don airport and then continuing to travel 50 km to the center of Ha Long by bus or shuttle service is a convenient choice.
Customers from Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces mainly choose air travel. Van Don airport receives direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Can Tho with increased frequency during Tet. Many airlines also launch promotional programs combining air tickets and tours, helping to reduce costs. The price of a 2-day 1-night package tour in Ha Long including airfare usually ranges from 4,500,000-6,500,000 VND depending on the time.
3.2. Moving between destinations in Quang Ninh
In the Ha Long - Cam Pha area, technology taxis like Grab and Be serve continuously with reasonable prices. The free Sun World bus takes guests from the center of Ha Long to the entrance of Sun World Ha Long amusement park, convenient for visitors who have purchased tickets. If you like to experience freely, you can rent a self-drive car with prices from 800,000 to 1,200,000 VND per day depending on the car type.
The Sun World Ha Long cable car is not only a means of transportation but also offers a unique experience with a height of about 189 m, allowing you to admire the panoramic view of the bay from above. When traveling during holidays, you need to pay attention to preserving the marine environment, not littering, and complying with traffic safety regulations to ensure a smooth trip.
4. Top destinations not to be missed when traveling to Quang Ninh Tet 2026
Spring travel journey perfectly connecting natural heritage, spirituality, and world-class entertainment. (Source: Collected)
In Quang Ninh, the travel journey is seamlessly connected between heritage, spirituality, and entertainment complexes within the tourism ecosystem developed by Sun Group. Each destination possesses its own characteristics, serving the needs of resort tourism, spirituality, and entertainment.
4.1. Ha Long Bay - Live fully with the winter heritage paradise
The beauty of Ha Long Bay in winter appears with a thin mist covering the water surface, creating a poetic space. When participating in the 7-hour Paradise Delight cruise, visitors will visit Ti Top Island with its fine white sand and excellent viewpoint, Sung Sot Cave with its strange stalactites, and experience Luon Cave - a unique natural tunnel. Kayaking among the small islands is an opportunity to get closer to nature.
The night squid fishing activity on the bay is an unforgettable moment when you enjoy fresh seafood while admiring the night scenery on the bay. The Athena cruise combines live music performances and a New Year's Eve gala, bringing a festive atmosphere to the bay.
4.2. Sun World Ha Long – Vibrant New Year's entertainment area
The Queen Cable Car, 2,075 m long, takes visitors to an altitude of about 189 m, opening up a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from above. Dragon Park is located on the mountaintop, gathering many thrilling games as well as play areas for families. The fireworks display on New Year's Eve at Sun World Ha Long brings a spectacular light show to the sky.
During Tet, Sun World Ha Long has flexible ticket policies for groups and families. The restaurant system serves a variety from Vietnamese dishes to international cuisine, suitable for all members. The amusement park organizes a series of activities “Enjoy the Festival – Savor the Festival – Play the Festival” lasting from the 1st to the 5th day of Tet. Visitors will experience lion dances to welcome spring, lucky money at the beginning of the year, calligraphy requests from Mr. Do, Dong Ho painting workshops, and banh chung wrapping. Tet art mini-shows, Xam singing performances, and horse racing games bring a vibrant spring atmosphere, contributing to a meaningful spring travel destination for families and visitors from all directions.
4.3. Yen Tu - The "spiritual capital" of the North at the beginning of the year
Yen Tu Mountain, 1,068 m high, is the birthplace of the Truc Lam Zen school, associated with the spiritual practice of Emperor-Monk Tran Nhan Tong. The Yen Tu cable car shortens the climbing time to about 1 hour, instead of a 6-hour walk. The final stretch through the lush bamboo forest creates a tranquil space, helping to prepare the mindset for the pilgrimage.
Along the way, many hermitages and pagodas like Hoa Yen, Lan, and Dong Pagoda create a complete spiritual route. When visiting Yen Tu during the Quang Ninh Tet tourism season, visitors can also enjoy special vegetarian dishes, prepared from fresh vegetables, very suitable for the beginning of the year. Winter is also the time when wild peach blossoms bloom, creating a beautiful scene for visitors to capture memorable photos.
4.4. Tuan Chau Island - The largest light and water music show in the North
The new show at Tuan Chau Island in 2026 uses the most advanced sound, light, and water technology. The 45-minute performance takes the audience through Vietnamese folk tales told in a modern artistic language, suitable for all ages. Tuan Chau Marina is the starting point for many bay exploration tours, with modern facilities and professional services.
The island's cuisine focuses on fresh seafood, creatively prepared in various culinary styles. Besides, water sports activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and sea fishing contribute to enriching the experience. Participating in Tet combo tours with pre-booked ticket discount codes will help save significant costs for the trip.
4.5. Ba Vang Pagoda, Cua Ong Temple - Spiritual cultural festivals attracting visitors at the beginning of the year
Ba Vang Pagoda is located on Cai Bau Mountain, 340 m high, nổi bật with a 67 m high statue of Avalokitesvara Buddha, one of the largest Buddha statues in Southeast Asia. The prayer ceremony at the beginning of the year here is held in a solemn atmosphere, attracting a large number of visitors. Opening hours are usually from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, extended to 8:00 PM during Tet.
Cua Ong Temple worships Duc Thanh Tran Hung Dao, famous for its water puppet shows and traditional folk games. The mountainous terrain combined with the sea creates a beautiful frame, suitable for souvenir photos when the Tet atmosphere brings pleasant weather.
4.6. Quang Ninh Museum, Quang Hanh Hot Springs - Photo-worthy and wellness destination
The Quang Ninh Museum is designed with a unique coal-shaped architecture by architect Salvador Perez Arroyo, becoming a prominent symbol of the province. The interior space displays over 6,000 artifacts, introducing the history, culture, and nature of Quang Ninh through various interactive exhibitions. Contemporary art events and traditional cultural performances often take place in the early days of the year.
Quang Hanh Hot Springs, with its natural warm water at 37°C year-round, is an ideal destination for relaxation and health care. The spa and therapy area here helps visitors restore energy after their sightseeing journey. When choosing Quang Ninh Tet tourism in Quang Hanh, you will have an experience combining resort and health care, very suitable for families with elderly members.
5. Culinary and special experiences when traveling to Quang Ninh during Tet
Quang Ninh cuisine harmoniously blends fresh seafood with traditional Northern Vietnamese flavors. (Source: Collected)
Quang Ninh cuisine impresses with its harmony between the fresh taste of the sea and the sophistication of Northern Vietnamese cuisine. Each dish is a vivid story about the land and its people.
5.1. Suggested signature dishes: Ha Long squid cake, Yen Tu cuisine
Ha Long squid cake is made from fresh squid caught right in the bay, offering an unforgettable rich flavor. The process of making the cake requires meticulousness as the squid is pounded until it forms a sticky mass, then grilled over charcoal to achieve an even golden color. Tourists can enjoy this dish at Ha Long night market with prices around 150,000-200,000 VND/kg or order directly on a cruise, enjoying a romantic atmosphere in the heart of the bay.
Additionally, the seafood feast includes grilled lobster with garlic butter, stir-fried crab with tamarind sauce, and steamed clams with lime leaves, creating a rich menu for the meal. Ben Tre clams with sweet meat are steamed with lime leaves and lemongrass, bringing a natural aroma. Vegetarian cuisine in Yen Tu mainly uses fresh bamboo shoots, wild vegetables, and tofu, prepared in Hue style, light yet nutritious. Sour bamboo soup combined with shiitake mushrooms and vegetarian spring rolls offers a delicate flavor, helping to purify the body as the new year begins.
5.2. Itinerary for culinary experiences combined with sightseeing
Start the day in Yen Tu during the Quang Ninh Tet travel itinerary with a light vegetarian meal at a restaurant near the pagoda, with mushroom congee and vegetarian banh chung to replenish energy for the pilgrimage. At noon, enjoy fresh seafood on a cruise in Ha Long Bay with dishes like stir-fried crab with tamarind, steamed clams, and freshly grilled squid cake, which will be an unforgettable experience.
In the evening, explore Ha Long night market to enjoy street food such as Thanh Tri rolled rice pancakes, crab noodle soup, or La Vong grilled fish. Night squid fishing combined with on-site preparation and enjoyment allows tourists to fully experience the fresh taste of the sea. Seaside eateries serve draft beer along with dishes like grilled snails with scallion oil and salt and pepper shrimp, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere after a long day.
6. Useful tips and experiences when traveling to Quang Ninh for Tet
Equip yourself with tips to make your spring trip to Quang Ninh more convenient and safe. (Source: Collected)
Some practical tips will help your Tet holiday trip to Quang Ninh go smoothly, while creating many beautiful memories. Thorough preparation, from luggage to knowledge of local customs, will contribute to a perfect journey.
6.1. Prepare luggage and clothing suitable for Northern winter
Winter in Quang Ninh is often chilly with high humidity due to the sea's influence. Therefore, prepare a thick jacket that is windproof and waterproof, especially when participating in activities like cruising or kayaking. Non-slip sports shoes are suitable for taking the cable car or climbing Yen Tu mountain, while comfortable sandals are appropriate for the beach.
Accessories like woolen hats, scarves, and gloves help keep you warm in the morning and evening. You should bring a small umbrella in case of sudden rain, typical of coastal weather. Waterproof bags will protect electronic devices during outdoor activities. Sunscreen is still necessary to protect your skin from sunlight reflecting off the sea surface.
6.2. Notes on customs, festivals, and etiquette at spiritual sites
Sites like Yen Tu, Ba Vang Pagoda, or Cua Ong Temple have their own regulations regarding attire and behavior. Visitors should choose long-sleeved shirts and long pants when entering pagodas, avoiding short or overly bright clothing. When entering the main worship area, remove shoes, remain silent, and show respect.
The New Year's peace-praying ritual has its own procedure that visitors should learn before participating. When offering incense, use three sticks, bow three times before placing them in the censer. Always pay attention to hygiene, do not litter, pick flowers, or make noise. In coastal areas, proactively avoid throwing trash into the water and, if possible, participate in environmental protection activities like beach cleanups.
6.3. Popular check-in spots for Tet 2026
The beautiful scenery of Ha Long Bay viewed from a cruise or cable car will provide emotional photos with a thin mist surrounding the islands. The ideal time for photography is from 6:30 to 7:30 AM, when soft light creates a shimmering effect. Yen Tu peak offers a panoramic view of the valley shrouded in mist, creating a unique scene perfect for artistic shots.
Quang Ninh Museum, with its distinctive coal-shaped architecture, is a favorite spot for young people, especially in the afternoon when golden sunlight hits the unique walls. Ha Long Night Market, with its colorful stalls and vibrant lights, is also an ideal place for cheerful photos. The LED light flower avenue at October 30th Square during the Lunar New Year creates a magnificent scene, perfect for family commemorative photos.
Tet holiday travel in Quang Ninh offers a complete experience, where heritage nature, spiritual spaces, and modern entertainment complexes are harmoniously connected within the tourism ecosystem invested and developed by Sun Group. Plan and share wonderful moments from your spring trip to explore this magical land in the new year 2026!