Planning a 2-day-1-night trip to Cát Bà Island from Hạ Long this summer? Let Soleil Hostel be your travel companion as we explore the unspoiled beauty of Cát Bà Island – from transportation, top attractions, to must-try local dishes.
1. How to get from Hạ Long to Cát Bà: A Complete Guide
Tuần Châu Ferry Terminal (Hạ Long) to Gia Luận Pier (Cát Bà)
Step 1: Head to Tuần Châu ferry terminal (about 12 km from central Hạ Long).
Step 2: Purchase a ferry ticket to Gia Luận (Cát Bà Island). There are typically 5–6 trips daily. The ferry ride takes about 45–60 minutes.
Step 3: Upon arrival at Gia Luận Pier, rent a motorbike or take a bus/taxi to Cát Bà Town (approx. 20 km). The route is scenic, with lush forests on both sides.
Tip: Take a morning ferry to maximize your exploration time. If you’re driving, book ferry tickets in advance—especially on weekends.
Location: In the heart of Cát Bà Town, close to major attractions.
Amenities: Clean rooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, tour desk, motorbike rental.
Vibe: Youthful, minimalist design. Perfect for backpackers, couples, or travel groups.
Highlights: Budget-friendly, sea view rooms, walking distance to night market and beaches.
3. Suggested 2D1N Itinerary from Hạ Long to Cát Bà
Day 1: Hạ Long – Gia Luận – Explore Town
Morning: Take the ferry from Tuần Châu to Gia Luận, check in at Hotel.
Lunch: Enjoy local seafood at Restaurant (fresh and affordable).
Afternoon: Swim and relax at Cát Cò 1 & 2 beaches. Great for scenic photos!
Evening: Visit the Cát Bà Night Market and try local delicacies like mantis shrimp with salt, grilled horseshoe crab, and Cát Bà crab noodle soup.
Day 2: Lan Hạ Bay – Fishing Village – Return to Hạ Long
Morning: Join a boat tour to Lan Hạ Bay, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful bays.
Explore Cái Bèo Fishing Village and Dark & Light Cave by kayak.
Lunch: Eat at a floating restaurant on the bay.
Afternoon: Return to Gia Luận Pier for the ferry back to Tuần Châu – Hạ Long.
4. What to Eat on Cát Bà? Top Food & Restaurants
Must-Try Local Dishes:
Grilled geoduck (tu hài) with scallion oil
Steamed mantis shrimp with beer
Sweet and sour horseshoe crab
Steamed grouper with soy sauce
Cát Bà-style crab noodle soup
5. Handy Tips for a Perfect Trip
Bring along: Sunscreen, hat, swimsuit, light trekking shoes.
Book your hostel and ferry tickets early, especially on weekends or holidays.
Take a guided Lan Hạ Bay tour for convenience and insider knowledge.
Conclusion
A 2D1N Cát Bà trip from Hạ Long is the perfect short getaway—time-efficient, affordable, and full of adventure. This summer 2025, pack your bags and head to the gem of the Gulf of Tonkin – Cát Bà Island!
