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Everything you need to know to visit Ha Long Bay in 2026, from choosing the perfect cruise to getting your Vietnam eVisa.
Why Visit Ha Long Bay in 2026?
Ha Long Bay remains one of Vietnam's most iconic destinations. In 2026, improved expressways and newer cruise ships make it easier than ever to explore its thousands of limestone karsts. To get started, you will need to secure your Vietnam eVisa before arriving.
Choosing Your Arrival Port
Most travelers heading to Ha Long Bay fly into nearby international airports. All of these accept the Vietnam eVisa:
- **Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)**: About 2.5 hours away. Read our Hanoi travel guide for more tips. - **Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)**: Just 45 minutes from Ha Long. - **Hon Gai Seaport**: If you are arriving by an international cruise ship, you can enter directly at this seaport using an eVisa.
Vietnam eVisa Requirements for 2026
As of 2026, the Vietnam eVisa is open to ALL nationalities. It allows stays of up to 90 days with single or multiple entries.
- **Cost**: $25 for single entry, $50 for multiple entries. - **Processing time**: Usually 3-5 working days. - **Passport**: Must have at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.
Citizens of certain countries (like the UK, France, Japan, South Korea) enjoy up to 45 days visa-free, while ASEAN nations get 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, apply for an eVisa.
How to Choose a Ha Long Bay Cruise
Selecting a cruise can be overwhelming. Here is a quick "rule of thumb":
- **Day Cruises**: Good if you are short on time, but can feel rushed. - **1 Night / 2 Days**: The standard option. You will see highlights like Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island. - **2 Nights / 3 Days**: Highly recommended for a more relaxed pace and exploring deeper into Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay.
Make sure your visa dates cover the entire duration of your trip. If you need a visa, check our step-by-step eVisa guide.