Ninh Binh, also known as the Ha Long Bay on land, is a true hidden gem in Vietnam. It offers lush rice fields, dramatic cliffs, winding waterways, and hidden caves. This makes it perfect for both nature lovers and adventurers. Over these 2 days, we’ll show you all the best spots in Ninh Binh, so you fully enjoy this beautiful place.
2 Day Itinerary Ninh Binh Key Takeaways:
- Explore Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes and cultural attractions.
- Experience a boat ride through the Tam Coc or Trang An waterways.
- Visit the Bich Dong Pagoda and its hidden cave.
- Hike up to the Mua Cave viewpoint for breathtaking scenery.
- Discover the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and its historic sites.
How to Get to Ninh Binh?
Traveling to Ninh Binh is easy with many transport choices. You can go by road or water, picking what’s best for you and your wallet.
1. Limousine Transfer
Lots of folks choose limousine transfers to get to Ninh Binh. These are shared minibuses. They’re a common way to travel in Vietnam. In Hanoi, many travel agents offer these services at good prices.
If you’re not sure who to pick, ask your hotel in Hanoi for advice. They know reliable services. This help makes your trip stress-free.
2. Triangle Route from Ha Long Bay
Visiting Ha Long Bay already? Add Ninh Binh to your plans. A simple triangle route links Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh. You get to see two of Vietnam’s beautiful spots in one go.
Ninh Binh is full of adventure and natural wonders. No matter how you travel there, you’ll see amazing views. Start planning, and you’re on your way to a memorable Ninh Binh trip.
How Long to Spend in Ninh Binh
When you visit Ninh Binh, think about how much time you’ll need. Exploring this amazing place takes time. Spending two full days here is a good start. This lets you see the top places and enjoy its beauty.
Better yet, have three nights and two days to check everything out at your own pace. Enjoy the breathtaking views and discover Ninh Binh’s culture. But, if time is tight, two nights and two days can work too.
Ninh Binh is full of amazing places. It’s hard to see them all in just a day and a half. For a complete visit, plan to stay at least two full days.
Tailor your Ninh Binh trip to fit your interests. The time you spend there shapes your experience and relaxation.
| Duration in Ninh Binh | Suggested Itinerary Length |
|---|---|
| 2 Days | Minimum recommended duration to see main attractions |
| 3 Nights, 2 Days | Allows for a more relaxed visit |
| 2 Nights, 2 Days | Possible, but may be challenging to fit all main sights into a day and a half |
Is it Possible to Do a Day Trip to Ninh Binh?
Yes, you can do a day trip to Ninh Binh. But, seeing everything in just a day isn’t doable. A Ninh Binh 1-day tour from Hanoi is great if you’re strapped for time.
You can also find other day trips from Hanoi. These might visit places like Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the Perfume Pagoda, or the incense village. There are lots of Ninh Binh tours to pick from, depending on what you like.
Ninh Binh Itinerary: Day 1
Start your Ninh Binh adventure by seeing the amazing landscapes. Begin with a boat ride at Trang An or Tam Coc early in the morning. These areas let you see amazing cliffs up close while cruising the water.
After the boat ride, take a bike through the rice fields to Bich Dong Pagoda. This pagoda is an ancient place with lots of history. Make sure to visit the cave inside to see more of the region’s past and spiritual beliefs.
To end the day, go to Tam Coc’s main street for dinner. You’ll find many places to eat, and the food is both good and cheap. It’s a great way to enjoy the town’s lively vibe.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
| Activities | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Early morning boat ride | Trang An or Tam Coc | Approximately 2 hours |
| Cycling to Bich Dong Pagoda | Ninh Binh countryside | Approximately 1 hour |
| Exploring Bich Dong Pagoda | Ninh Binh countryside | Flexible |
| Dining in Tam Coc | Main street in Tam Coc | Flexible |
Day 1 in Ninh Binh is a great start to seeing this beautiful place. You’ll experience the peace of the boat rides, wonder at the pagoda, and enjoy the town’s food and life. It’s the perfect way to begin your Ninh Binh journey.
Ninh Binh Itinerary: Day 2
Today, you’ll have an early start for the Mua Cave viewpoint hike. The view from the top is stunning. You can see beautiful scenery for miles. Make sure to take some photos to remember the moment.
After the hike, it’s time for lunch at a nearby café. You’ll enjoy local food as you relax. The peaceful setting will add to your experience.
If it’s the right time of year, don’t miss the lotus fields. They are a beautiful sight. The bright colors of the flowers will impress you.
In the afternoon, visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. It was Vietnam’s old capital. Here, you’ll see the first Emperor’s tomb and a large temple. Learn about the area’s history and enjoy its ancient architecture.
Recommended Activities for Day 2
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Hike to Mua Cave viewpoint | Morning |
| Lunch at a café near Mua Cave | Afternoon |
| Visit the lotus fields | Seasonal availability |
| Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital | Afternoon |
Take some time at the day’s end to think about all you’ve seen and done. Tomorrow, there will be more to explore. But, for now, enjoy Ninh Binh’s beauty and history.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
How to Plan the Best 2 Days in Ninh Binh Itinerary
Planning a great 2-day adventure in Ninh Binh takes some thought. Staying a few nights lets you enjoy the area slowly. While you can see a lot in a day, two days allow deeper exploration. Here are tips for a perfect Ninh Binh trip:
- Research and prioritize: Find out the top things to see and do in Ninh Binh. List your favorites and decide what matters most to you. This ensures you see the best of the region.
- Consider transportation: Figure out how you’ll get around Ninh Binh. You might want to rent a scooter, join tours, or hire a car. Pick what’s best for you and easy to move around with.
- Create a daily schedule: Plan each day carefully, considering how long it takes to travel between places. Make sure to have enough time at each site. This way, you can truly enjoy the beauty.
- Start early: Mornings in Ninh Binh are peaceful and cool, perfect for sightseeing. Begin your day early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the attractions.
- Include variety: Mix nature, culture, and local life in your plans. Visit caves, take boat trips, learn about Ninh Binh’s history, and taste local food. This gives you a real feel for the region.
- Be flexible: It’s good to have a plan, but also stay open to new adventures. Ninh Binh is full of surprises. Don’t miss out on new discoveries or interesting stops.
By using these tips and adjusting your itinerary, you can have a great two days in Ninh Binh. Get ready for a trip full of beautiful scenery and rich culture. Enjoy your time in Ninh Binh!
Tranquil Escape in Ninh Binh: Nature and Culinary Delights
Ninh Binh is a tranquil escape with its beautiful scenery and tasty food. It’s famous for its stunning nature in Ninh Binh. This includes amazing limestone cliffs, wide rice fields, and pretty waterways. If you love nature or good food, Ninh Binh has something for you.
Ninh Binh is well-known for its natural beauty. The limestone cliffs are similar to Ha Long Bay and ideal for hiking. You’ll also find endless rice fields that are both peaceful and beautiful. The waterways have hidden caves and green surroundings, great for a boat ride or kayaking.
Moreover, Ninh Binh is a food lover’s paradise. The cuisine mixes Vietnamese flavors with local specialties. You can enjoy tasty rice dishes, soups, and seafood in Ninh Binh. Make sure to try “com chay” (burned rice) and “cha com” (green rice cake with pork) – these are local favorites.
“Ninh Binh offers a serene escape with its scenic landscapes and culinary delights.”
– Local Food Guide
Exploring Ninh Binh’s wonders or enjoying its great food will refresh and inspire you. Discover the beauty of nature in Ninh Binh and the delicious culinary experiences it has to offer. This tranquil part of Vietnam is waiting for you.
| Reasons to Visit Ninh Binh | Why Ninh Binh is Special |
|---|---|
| Stunning limestone cliffs | Rice fields as far as the eye can see |
| Winding waterways and hidden caves | Unique regional cuisine |
| Tranquil and peaceful atmosphere | Blend of Vietnamese flavors |
The Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh: A Customizable 2 Day Itinerary
Ninh Binh is perfect for nature lovers, history fans, and those who love food. It is a beautiful place to visit. With a 2-day plan, you’ll see the top spots in Ninh Binh.
Day 1
Begin at Bai Dinh Pagoda, the biggest in Southeast Asia. You’ll see amazing structures and learn its culture.
Then, head to Tam Coc for a boat ride. You’ll pass majestic karst formations and green scenes on the river.
For more fun, go to Trang An. It’s a UNESCO site with beautiful landscapes and caves. Take a boat to see the area’s wonders.
Finish at Mua Cave by climbing 500 steps. On top, you’ll get a stunning view of Ninh Binh.
Day 2
Ride your bike to Bich Dong Pagoda for a nature-filled start. This old pagoda is in a peaceful cliff spot.
Visit the ancient Ho Citadel in the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. You’ll learn about Vietnam’s history through its ruins.
Don’t miss the chance to taste local food like “com chay” and “chao suon” in Ninh Binh.
End the day with a calm walk. Enjoy Ninh Binh’s serene landscapes and peace.
This plan is flexible and can change to what you like. You can adjust to fit your interests and time.
| Attractions | Recommended Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Bai Dinh Pagoda | 2-3 hours | Largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia |
| Tam Coc | 2-3 hours | Boat ride along the Ngo Dong River with stunning karst formations |
| Trang An | 3-4 hours | UNESCO World Heritage site with cave systems and picturesque landscape |
| Mua Cave | 2-3 hours | Spectacular views of Ninh Binh’s countryside after climbing 500 steps |
| Bich Dong Pagoda | 1-2 hours | Ancient pagoda nestled amidst limestone cliffs |
| Hoa Lu Ancient Capital | 2-3 hours | Ancient ruins showcasing Vietnam’s history |
What to Do in Ninh Binh in 2 Days
If you have two days to check out Ninh Binh, no need to feel overwhelmed. We have a special list of things to do. These will help you enjoy your visit more. You can visit beautiful pagodas and glide through stunning landscapes here. Ninh Binh has something for all its visitors.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Be sure to see Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of Southeast Asia’s top Buddhist temples. There, you can find peace and marvel at the amazing design and views. Check out the huge Buddha and wander the big temple area.
Boat rides in Tam Coc or Trang An
Take a boat ride in Tam Coc or Trang An through their amazing sceneries. You’ll see giant limestone cliffs, green plants, and rivers that twist and turn. Going through caves, you’ll feel the calm of nature at a UNESCO site. It’s an adventure you’ll always remember.
Cycling to Bich Dong Pagoda
Go on a bike ride through Ninh Binh’s beautiful countryside. Ride by lush rice fields and small villages to reach Bich Dong Pagoda. Explore both the pagoda and the caves nearby for a unique experience.
Hiking to the Mua Cave viewpoint
Try hiking to Mua Cave’s high view. You’ll climb 500 steps to reach a spot with grand views of the karst and the land. It’s great for taking photos and is perfect for those who love hiking.
Exploring the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Visit the old Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. You can see its temples, palaces, the Emperor’s tomb, and the temple of Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng. This place was once very important for Vietnam’s history.
These things show Ninh Binh’s natural beauty and history. If you like nature, history, or are looking for adventure, these spots will be unforgettable. Don’t forget to enjoy what Ninh Binh has in your two days.
Conclusion
Ninh Binh is a hidden gem in Vietnam. It offers a serene escape with stunning landscapes and cultural attractions. Our two-day itinerary lets you explore Tam Coc and Trang An, the Bich Dong Pagoda’s tranquility, and the amazing Mua Cave views.
But there’s even more to find in Ninh Binh. Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital’s ancient history and enjoy the local cuisine’s delights. This charming place has something for all. You can take a day trip or stay longer for an unforgettable adventure.
When planning your visit, make time for relaxation and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. A boat ride in the waterways, cycling through the rice fields, and tasting the local food are great ways to experience Ninh Binh. Let the beauty and culture of this place captivate you.
Ninh Binh offers stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and peace. It’s definitely a place worth visiting. We hope our guide helps you plan your Ninh Binh adventure. Get ready to be amazed by the beauty of this unique place!
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
