Comparing Travel Costs Between Ha Long Bay and Da Nang: Finding a Budget-Friendly Trip
Traveling is always a wonderful experience, but cost is an important factor to consider. Ha Long Bay and Da Nang, two famous destinations in Vietnam, both offer unique experiences. So which is the more economical choice? This article will compare travel costs between Ha Long Bay and Da Nang, helping you find a trip that fits your budget.
Travel Costs to Ha Long Bay and Da Nang
- To Ha Long Bay: From Hanoi, you can travel by bus (about 150,000 - 200,000 VND/person) or limousine (about 250,000 - 350,000 VND/person). Travel time is about 2-3 hours. From other provinces, you can fly to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong) and then travel by bus or taxi to Ha Long.
- To Da Nang: Da Nang has an international airport, convenient for travel from all over the world. From other provinces in the country, you can choose to travel by plane, train, or bus. Airfare often fluctuates depending on the time and airline.
Comparison: Travel costs to Da Nang can be higher than to Ha Long Bay, especially if you travel by plane. However, traveling to Da Nang is more convenient thanks to the international airport.

Accommodation Costs: Ha Long Bay vs. Da Nang
- Ha Long Bay: Ha Long offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The average hotel room price is about 500,000 - 1,500,000 VND/night. You can also choose to spend the night on a cruise, a unique experience with prices starting from 1,000,000 VND/night.
- Da Nang: Da Nang also has many accommodation options, from cheap homestays to luxurious 5-star hotels. The average hotel room price is about 400,000 - 2,000,000 VND/night. Coastal resorts are often more expensive.
Comparison: Accommodation costs in both locations are quite similar, depending on the type of accommodation you choose. However, Da Nang has more cheap homestay options compared to Ha Long Bay.
Food and Beverage Costs: Budget Travel to Ha Long Bay and Da Nang
- Ha Long Bay: Seafood is a specialty of Ha Long. You can enjoy fresh seafood at coastal restaurants with varied prices. A budget seafood meal costs about 200,000 - 300,000 VND/person.
- Da Nang: Da Nang cuisine is famous for its specialties such as Mi Quang, Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo, and Bun Cha Ca. Food costs in Da Nang are quite cheap, a budget meal is only about 50,000 - 100,000 VND/person.
Comparison: Food costs in Da Nang are significantly cheaper than in Ha Long Bay.

Sightseeing and Entertainment Costs: Saving Money on Travel to Ha Long Bay and Da Nang
- Ha Long Bay: The main sightseeing activities in Ha Long Bay include boat trips, cave exploration, and swimming. Bay tour costs range from 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/person.
- Da Nang: Da Nang has many attractive sights such as Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, and My Khe Beach. The cost of visiting these places ranges from 200,000 - 800,000 VND/person.
Comparison: Sightseeing costs in Da Nang are more flexible, with many free or cheap options like swimming at My Khe Beach.
Ha Long Bay vs Da Nang Price Comparison: Summary
Overall, the cost of traveling to Da Nang can be cheaper than Ha Long Bay, especially in terms of food and sightseeing. However, travel costs to Da Nang can be higher. The choice of travel destination depends on your preferences and budget. If you want to experience majestic nature and don't mind spending more on food, Ha Long Bay is a great choice. If you want to explore diverse cuisine and save money, Da Nang is an ideal destination. Whichever location you choose, plan your spending wisely for a budget-friendly and memorable trip.
Smart Choices for Budget Travel
To save on travel costs, you should:
You may need or be interested in
- Book flights and hotel rooms in advance: Booking early gives you more choices and better prices.
- Travel during the off-season: Avoid traveling during holidays to save money.
- Look for promotions: Many hotels and airlines often have attractive promotions.
- Choose the right means of transportation: Consider airplane, train, or bus to find the most economical means of transportation.
- Eat at local restaurants: Explore local cuisine at budget eateries to save money.
- Choose free entertainment activities: Enjoy free activities such as swimming, walking, and visiting parks.
With the above sharing, hopefully, you can choose a travel destination that suits your budget and enjoy a wonderful trip.