Cat Ba Island

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Ha Long, VN
9:03 pm, May 23, 2025
temperature icon 28°C
overcast clouds
Humidity: 89 %
Pressure: 1007 mb
Wind: 5 mph
Wind Gust: 6 mph
Clouds: 100%
Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise: 5:12 am
Sunset: 6:25 pm

OVERVIEW OF CAT BA

Where jungle meets sea and limestone cliffs rise from emerald waters, Cat Ba Island is a wild and beautiful escape just beyond the bustle of Halong Bay. It’s a place where quiet coves, mountain trails, and floating villages coexist in harmony. The island hums with nature — birdsong in the forests, waves against the rocks, and the smoky scent of seafood on the grill. Rugged yet peaceful, Cát Bà invites travelers to slow down, explore deeply, and reconnect with what’s real.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Emple of Literature – Imperial Academy

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Hoan Kiem Lake

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Ta Hien Street – Beer Street

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Hoa Lo Prison

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USEFUL INFORMATION

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💰 Currency

  • Official currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  • Most local shops and street food vendors only accept cash
  • Credit cards accepted in larger hotels, malls, and some restaurants
  • ATMs are widely available in tourist areas

📶 SIM & Internet

  • SIM cards available at Noi Bai Airport, convenience stores, or mobile shops
  • Top providers: Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone
  • 4G/5G coverage is strong in Hanoi; plans are cheap
  • Free Wi-Fi available in most cafes, hotels, and restaurants

🚕 Getting around

  • Use ride-hailing apps like Grab, Xanhsm, Be to get around
  • Walking is the best way to explore the Old Quarter
  • There are electric buses and public buses, but signs are in Vietnamese
  • Be careful with taxi meters

🙏 Local Etiquette

  • Remove shoes when entering homes or temples
  • Dress modestly at religious sites (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Avoid loud talking in sacred places
  • Smiling and polite gestures go a long way in Vietnam

LOCAL CUISINE – WHAT TO EAT IN HANOI

🟡 Cat Ba Island isn’t just about stunning cliffs and turquoise waters — it’s also a haven for seafood lovers. From floating restaurants to beachside grills, the island serves up the freshest catch with bold, simple flavors that highlight the sea. Whether you’re savoring steamed mantis shrimp or diving into a spicy clam hotpot, every meal here is a celebration of ocean life and coastal culture. Eat slow, breathe deep, and let the island feed your senses.

🦐 Tôm Tích Hấp (Steamed Mantis Shrimp – Sweet and Delicate)
🐚 Nghêu Hấp Sả (Steamed Clams with Lemongrass)
🐟 Cá Song Hấp Xì Dầu (Grouper Steamed with Soy Sauce)
🍲 Lẩu Hải Sản Cát Bà (Cat Ba Seafood Hotpot)
🦀 Cua Biển Rang Me (Crab Stir-Fried with Tamarind Sauce)
🍜 Bún Bề Bề (Vermicelli with Mantis Shrimp Broth)

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🍽️ Tap here to discover the best local food spots — with videos, maps, and traveler-friendly info.

 TRAVEL ITINERARY

Planning your time in Hanoi can be overwhelming — the city is full of history, culture, amazing food, and endless alleyways to explore. To make your trip easier, we’ve created 3 recommended itineraries that suit different schedules and travel styles. Whether you only have a day or you’re staying for a long weekend, you’ll find something here that fits perfectly.

1 Day In Hanoi

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2 Day In Hanoi

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3 Day In Hanoi

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REAL IMAGES

Is Cat Ba Island a good alternative to Halong Bay?

Yes. Cat Ba offers similar limestone scenery via Lan Ha Bay, but with fewer crowds and a more laid-back vibe. It’s ideal for travelers seeking kayaking, hiking, and local life away from mass tourism.

The fastest route combines a 7–9 seat minivan and a speedboat via Got or Ben Binh port, taking around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Some companies offer all-in-one transfers with a single ticket.

Absolutely. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore beaches, caves, and Cat Ba National Park. For cruising Lan Ha Bay, booking a day or overnight boat is recommended, but doesn’t require a big group.

Lan Ha Bay shares the same stunning karst landscape but is less developed and more peaceful. Most tours here focus on kayaking, swimming, and visiting floating fishing villages, offering a more eco-friendly experience.

Yes. Cat Ba Town has a growing range of hostels, boutique hotels, and seafood restaurants. For a quieter stay, consider bungalows near the beaches or eco-lodges inside the national park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Visit our full FAQ section for detailed answers.

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