Walks in Ha Long City and on Cat Ba
Ha Long is not a big walking city, but three areas reward a stroll: the Hon Gai seafront, the Bai Chay beach and night market, and the forest trails on Cat Ba island. One popular peak, Bai Tho mountain, is closed. Costs are in Vietnamese dong (VND), at roughly 26,000 per US dollar.
Hon Gai seafront walk
Start at Cho Ha Long 1, the traditional fish and squid market, and walk past the foot of Bai Tho mountain to Chua Long Tien and Den Tran Quoc Nghien. Both are working places of worship. Cover shoulders and knees and remove hats and shoes in the sanctuaries. The pagoda dates from 1941, and the temple honours the eldest son of General Tran Hung Dao. Keep voices low.
From there follow the stone paved Tran Quoc Nghien seafront promenade toward the Quang Ninh Museum. The route is flat and about 4 km long, and it takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours at an easy pace, with the limestone peaks rising from the city shore. The museum charges 40,000 VND for adults, 20,000 VND for students and 10,000 VND for children, and opens 08:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 17:00. Check whether it is closed on Monday.
Bai Chay beach and night market
The Bai Chay promenade runs along the beach, which is free. Keep in mind that lifeguard cover cannot be relied on, so be careful if you wade in. In the evening head inland to the night market, where stalls sell dried seafood, pearl jewellery and street food. Opening hours vary, so go in the evening and ask a local for the day’s schedule. Bai Chay Bridge also has walkways with views over the strait.
Cat Ba National Park trails
On Cat Ba, the Ngu Lam peak trail starts at the national park headquarters and is about 3 km return, taking 1.5 to 2.5 hours. It is a moderate climb over limestone, where tree roots act as steps, and it passes through the Kim Giao forest. Wear sturdy shoes, because limestone can be sharp, and carry at least 1 litre of water. The ferry from Tuan Chau to Gia Luan takes 45 to 60 minutes, and Gia Luan is about 25 km from Cat Ba town.
Cannon Fort on Cat Ba is open to visitors. It involves a short climb, an entry fee of a few tens of thousands of dong and an optional electric cart.
Bai Tho mountain is closed
Bai Tho mountain has been closed since a forest fire in November 2017 and is still officially shut. A man died in a fall while climbing it in March 2026, and locals who charge for illegal ascents put walkers at risk. Look at it from the street instead.
Practical tips
Walk early or late in the hot months, because summer afternoons can be fierce. Storm season runs from May to November, and heavy rain makes limestone slick.
Read more: Sightseeing in Ha Long covers the main sights.
Booking
Guided city and island walks can be compared on GetYourGuide . Museum details are on the Vietjet destination guide .