A trip to Van Don is an opportunity to discover one of Vietnam's most dynamically developing tourist centers. Thanks to its strategic location in Quang Ninh Province, this area has become an important transport hub connecting the mainland with the picturesque islands of the archipelago.
The main flow of tourists arrives through Van Don International Airport. This modern air gateway handles regular flights from Ho Chi Minh City and other major cities, as well as serving international destinations. The airport is conveniently located relative to the resort zones, allowing travelers to start their vacation almost immediately after landing.
For those who prefer ground transport, Van Don is connected to neighboring regions by a high-quality expressway. A trip by car or bus from Hanoi or neighboring Ha Long passes through scenic areas and takes only a few hours, making the resort easily accessible for guests from anywhere in the country.
Timeline
1149 — Emperor Ly Anh Tong officially established the Van Don trading port, which became the first international seaport in Vietnam's history.
1288 — General Tran Khanh Du achieved a strategic victory over the invading Yuan fleet in the waters of Van Don, cutting off the enemy army's supply routes.
15th–18th Centuries — The "Golden Age" of the port, when the region served as a bustling center of trade with merchants from Japan, China, Java, and Europe.
1948 — Official formation of the Van Don administrative district within the modern structure of the province.
2003 — The ruins of the ancient trading port were granted the status of a historical monument of national importance, highlighting the region's cultural heritage.
2005 — Construction of the Van Don Bridge was completed, connecting Cai Bau Island to mainland Vietnam by road for the first time.
2007 — The government approved the creation of the Van Don Economic Zone, launching large-scale infrastructure and tourism projects.
December 2018 — The opening of Van Don International Airport took place, providing direct air links to the resort.
February 2019 — The Ha Long – Van Don expressway was launched, reducing travel time to the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Milestones
Stages of Transformation and Development
The history of Van Don is a journey from an ancient strategic outpost to a modern economic zone. Key milestones in the region's development demonstrate its transformation from an isolated archipelago into one of Vietnam's major transport and tourism hubs.
Foundation of the First Trading Harbor (1149)
The establishment of the port by King Ly Anh Tong laid the region's economic foundation. This event defined Van Don's role as the country's main maritime gateway for several centuries, shaping traditions of international trade and cultural exchange.
Recognition of Cultural Heritage (2003)
Granting the ruins of the ancient port the status of a national monument was an important cultural step. This allowed for the preservation of the territory's historical identity in the face of upcoming large-scale urbanization and drew attention to the district's tourism potential.
Infrastructural Connection to the Mainland (2005)
The construction of the Van Don Bridge across the strait was an urban planning breakthrough. It ended the transport isolation of Cai Bau Island, allowing for the delivery of construction materials and machinery, which launched the active development of the land.
Establishment of the Special Economic Zone (2007)
A government decision to create a coastal-type economic zone completely reshaped the development strategy. The focus shifted from traditional fishing to the creation of premium resorts, casinos, and high-tech logistics.
Launch of the Private Airport (2018)
The opening of Van Don International Airport was a unique precedent for the Vietnamese economy (the first private airport). This event provided the region with autonomy from capital hubs and a direct flow of foreign investment and tourists.
Formation of the Transport Corridor (2019–2022)
The completion of the expressway system linking Ha Long, Van Don, and the border town of Mong Cai turned the city into a key transit link between China and ASEAN countries, significantly strengthening its trade importance.
Architecture
Architectural Landscape and Urban Planning
The architectural landscape of Van Don is a contrasting blend of historical heritage and ultra-modern planning. Since the region developed for a long time as a group of islands with fishing settlements, there is no dense construction in European styles such as Gothic or Baroque. The urban planning vector is aimed at creating a modern ecological resort zone that is harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape of Bai Tu Long Bay.
Main Architectural Trends
Traditional Vietnamese Architecture (Neo-traditionalism)
This is represented by religious buildings which, although built or restored in modern times, strictly follow the canons of the Tran and Ly dynasties. This style is characterized by curved tiled roofs, the use of natural wood and stone, and the feng shui principle of "back to the mountains, facing the sea."
Modern Tropical Modernism
The dominant style in new developments. This includes the airport buildings, maritime terminals, and resort complexes. The style is distinguished by an abundance of glass, open spaces, the integration of greenery into interiors, and the use of forms that mimic nature (waves, sails, sea creatures).
Iconic Landmarks and Urban Solutions
The face of modern Van Don is shaped by several key objects that have become the region's signature landmarks:
Cai Bau Pagoda (Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monastery)
A striking example of traditional architecture. Located on a mountainside, the complex demonstrates the classic structure of a Buddhist temple: multi-tiered roofs with upturned corners, massive wooden columns, and spacious courtyards. It is the architectural focal point of the island's spiritual life.
Van Don International Airport
A masterpiece of modern architecture. The terminal's design is inspired by local nature: the red roof resembles the sails of junks in Ha Long Bay, while the interiors are decorated using local materials. This building set a high standard for all subsequent urbanization of the district.
Ao Tien International Port
A new passenger port opened as part of the special economic zone's development. Its architecture is futuristic, with flowing lines symbolizing ocean waves, emphasizing Van Don's status as the maritime gateway to the province.
According to the master development plan, Van Don is transforming into a "smart city" and an eco-tourism center. Urban planning here avoids high-density high-rise buildings, preferring low-rise resort zones and the preservation of the islands' natural terrain.
Notable People
Prominent Figures in the History of Van Don
The history of Van Don is inextricably linked with the names of great commanders and rulers who transformed this archipelago into a strategic outpost and a prosperous trading center. Their memory lives on in street names, local temples, and annual festivals.
Ly Anh Tong (Lý Anh Tông) Emperor of the Ly Dynasty (1136–1175)
The founder of the region's commercial power. It was he who, in 1149, issued the historical decree on the official establishment of Van Don port. This decision opened Vietnam to international trade, allowing merchants from Java, Siam, and China to legally conduct business in these waters.
Tran Khanh Du (Trần Khánh Dư) Prominent Commander of the Tran Dynasty
A national hero who played a key role in the defense of the archipelago in the 13th century. In 1288, as the commander of the archipelago's defense, he brilliantly organized an ambush in the waters of Van Don. His fleet destroyed the supply ships of the invading army, depriving them of provisions and predetermining Vietnam's victory.
Tran Quoc Tang (Trần Quốc Tảng) Commander and Third Son of the Legendary Tran Hung Dao
Known as the "Lord of Cua Suot." For a long time, he governed the northeastern lands and waters, ensuring border security. Local residents revere him as a patron saint of the region; temples have been erected in his honor where commemorative ceremonies are regularly held.
Pham Cong Chinh (Phạm Công Chính) Local General and Folk Hero
A native of Quan Lan Island (part of Van Don District). He fought under the command of Tran Khanh Du and died heroically in the Battle of Van Don. He is worshipped as a local guardian deity at the Quan Lan communal house, considered an example of courage and loyalty to his native land.
Nguyen Huu Cau (Nguyễn Hữu Cầu) Leader of an 18th-century Peasant Uprising
Commonly known as "Quan He." A talented strategist and protector of the poor, he used the islands of Van Don and Ha Long Bay as a reliable base for his fleet during the uprising against the Trinh lords, demonstrating the strategic importance of the island labyrinth.