If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, Ninh Binh should be on your itinerary.
Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is famed for its breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences.
Having explored, photographed, and fallen in love with Ninh Binh myself, I’m excited to share the top things to do in Ninh Binh and all you need to know for a memorable visit.
Table of Contents
How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi
Getting from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is straightforward. Here are your best options:
- Train: The train takes around 2.5 hours, costing about $5–$10. It departs Hanoi several times daily.
- Bus: Regular buses depart hourly and take about 2 hours, costing around $5.
- Private Car or Tour: For convenience, consider booking a private transfer or a guided Hanoi to Ninh Binh day tour.
How to Get Around Ninh Binh
Once in Ninh Binh, you can easily get around by:
- Renting a scooter or motorbike (approximately $5–$10/day)
- Motorbike Taxi
- Hiring a private car or taxi for flexibility
- Cycling, especially around Tam Coc area
Tip: I recommend renting a scooter as I found it the fastest and most convenient way to get around.
Where to Stay in Ninh Binh
Choosing the right accommodation enhances your experience. Here are my top recommendations:
Hotels
- Trang An Ecolodge: The resort features an infinity swimming pool, spa facilities, sun terrace, and a lush garden. Additional amenities include a restaurant, a coffee shop, and free bicycles for exploring the surroundings.
- Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow: swimming pool with a view, sun terrace, and lush gardens. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a restaurant, bar, and outdoor fireplace.
- Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow: enjoy a swimming pool with a view, sun terrace, and free bicycles. The property includes a restaurant, massage services, a bar, and free WiFi.
Hostels
- Trang An River Homestay: 9.7 Superb rating from over 700 guests!
- Amy House: Comfortable, affordable, and convenient location in Ninh Binh and close to the bus and train station.
- The Banana Tree Hostel: Social Hub offering great food, drinks, scenery, and will help you organize your trip
Best Full-Day Tours in Ninh Binh
To maximize your experience and enjoy the top things to do in Ninh Binh, these tours are highly recommended:
- Ninh Binh from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Trang An/Tam Coc & Mua Cave (Full-day)
- Ninh Binh from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc & Mua Cave Boat & Bike Tour (Full-day)
- Cuc Phuong National Park Hiking Tour (Full-day)
Booking Short Tours in Ninh Binh
There are also numerous short tours available. Local operators offer half-day and full-day excursions that include activities like Tam Con or Trang An boat rides, visits to Mua Cave, cycling through the rice fields, and more.
You can book these directly with local agencies in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city. Prices typically range from $20 to $50, depending on the itinerary and inclusions.
Tip: Try to be one of the first boats out when booking locally, prior to 9:00 am when tour buses start to arrive.
Essential Tips for Traveling to Ninh Binh
- Best time to visit: March-May (dry and picturesque rice paddies) or September-October (beautiful golden fields).
- Carry cash: ATMs are available.
- Stay hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid, especially during summer months.
- Photography tip: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions and fewer crowds (sunrise being best for fewer crowds).
Top Things to Do in Ninh Binh
1. Trang An Scenic Boat Tour
A Trang An boat tour takes you through limestone caves and lush greenery. Expect a serene and picturesque 2–3-hour journey.
2. Hang Mua Cave Viewpoint
Climbing to the Hang Mua viewpoint rewards you with panoramic views over the Tam Coc landscape. There are 500 steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
3. Tam Coc Boat Ride
The Tam Coc boat tour is known for its spectacular rice paddies and limestone cliffs. Early morning is the best time for this relaxing experience.
4. Visit Am Tien Lake
Often called the “Tuyet Tinh Coc of Ninh Binh,” this hidden gem offers tranquility and beautiful photo opportunities.
5. Cuc Phuong National Park
Vietnam’s oldest national park, Cuc Phuong National Park is perfect for trekking, wildlife watching, and learning about conservation.
6. Explore Bich Dong Pagoda
A lesser-known attraction, Bich Dong Pagoda is built into a cave and provides unique architecture and tranquil beauty.
Photography Tips for Ninh Binh
- Sunrise: Best time to shoot to avoid crowds
- Sunset: Plan to go earlier; due to high mountains, sunset happens faster than apps predict. Places are usually more crowded than at sunrise.
- Smog: Common in this area; use a dehaze filter when necessary
- Wide-angle lenses: Essential for capturing the vast landscapes.
- Drone photography in Vietnam: If you have a drone, Ninh Binh’s dramatic limestone karsts and river systems look stunning from above, but always check local drone regulations and follow drone laws in Vietnam.
Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination packed with natural beauty, rich history, and amazing landscapes.
Bookmark this guide for the top things to do in Ninh Binh and start planning your unforgettable Vietnam adventure today!
Plan your stay in Ninh Binh
Ready for more Vietnamese adventures? Check out my comprehensive guide on motorbiking the Ha Giang Loop
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