Ha Long to Tam Coc Travel Guide
Language
The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas such as Ha Long and Tam Coc.
Currency
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas.
Distance
The distance from Ha Long to Tam Coc is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles).
How to Reach
- By bus: The most popular way to get from Ha Long to Tam Coc is by bus. There are several bus companies that offer direct buses between the two cities. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
- By train: There is no direct train service from Ha Long to Tam Coc. However, you can take a train from Ha Long to Ninh Binh, and then take a bus from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc. The journey takes approximately 5 hours.
- By private car: If you are traveling with a group of people, you can rent a private car to take you from Ha Long to Tam Coc. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
Expenses
The cost of getting from Ha Long to Tam Coc will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Here are some approximate costs:
| Mode of Transportation | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bus | $10-$15 |
| Train | $15-$20 |
| Private car | $50-$75 |
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Ha Long and Tam Coc is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What to Eat
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes. Some of the most popular dishes to try in Ha Long and Tam Coc include:
- Pho: A noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings.
- Bún chả: A grilled pork noodle dish served with a dipping sauce.
- Bánh xèo: A crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and vegetables.
- Cao lầu: A noodle dish made with pork, shrimp, and vegetables, topped with crispy shallots.
Where to Go
Ha Long and Tam Coc are both popular tourist destinations, with plenty to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions in each city:
Ha Long
- Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
- Sung Sôt Cave: A large and impressive cave located on one of the islands in Ha Long Bay.
- Bai Chay Beach: A popular beach resort town located on the mainland near Ha Long Bay.
Tam Coc
- Tam Coc Caves: A complex of three caves located in a scenic valley.
- Bích Động Pagoda: A historic Buddhist pagoda located on a hill overlooking the Tam Coc Caves.
- Hoa Lư Ancient Capital: The ancient capital of Vietnam, located near Tam Coc.
FAQ
- How long does it take to get from Ha Long to Tam Coc?
- The journey takes approximately 4 hours by bus, 5 hours by train, or 3 hours by private car.
- What is the best way to get from Ha Long to Tam Coc?
- The most popular way to get from Ha Long to Tam Coc is by bus. Buses are comfortable and affordable, and the journey takes approximately 4 hours.
- What is the cost of getting from Ha Long to Tam Coc?
- The cost of getting from Ha Long to Tam Coc will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Here are some approximate costs:
- Bus: $10-$15
- Train: $15-$20
- Private car: $50-$75
- What is the best time to visit Ha Long and Tam Coc?
- The best time to visit Ha Long and Tam Coc is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.