Welcome to Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s secret jewel and a heaven for those who love the outdoors! It’s often called the “Ha Long Bay on land.” Here, you’ll find spectacular landscapes that are truly breathtaking. This includes massive karst mountains, charming rice fields, and ancient temples.
Our guide aims to show you Ninh Binh’s top highlights and amazing sites, ensuring you have a wonderful time here.
Ninh Binh Highlights Key Takeaways:
- Discover the stunning landscapes and rich history of Ninh Binh
- Explore the top attractions and hidden gems of Ninh Binh
- Plan your stay in Ninh Binh for a truly immersive experience
- Learn how to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi and other popular destinations
- Get tips and advice for a memorable visit to Ninh Binh
Plan Your Stay in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is called the “Ha Long Bay on land” for a good reason. It’s filled with amazing sites and adventures. Choosing where to stay, like Tam Coc or Trang An, is key to fully enjoying your visit.
Tam Coc:
Staying in Tam Coc is smart because it’s close to boat tours and lodging options. This lively town is surrounded by beautiful green scenes and tall mountains. It’s a great place to start your journey into Ninh Binh’s nature. Enjoy calm boat rides on the Ngo Dong River, under high cliffs and through caves. Biking around the area lets you absorb the peace and beauty of the countryside.
Trang An:
If peace and stunning views are your aim, consider Trang An. This area is a masterpiece with foggy mountaintops, quiet waters, and lovely scenes. You’ll see amazing sights while on a tour of the Trang An Grottoes. It’s a UNESCO site that offers a quiet and magical escape in the midst of natural beauty.
Both locations offer a variety of places to stay, fitting any budget. Whether you prefer a quiet guesthouse or a high-end resort with great views, Ninh Binh has something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploration.
Here are some top recommendations for your stay in Ninh Binh:
- Cuc Phuong National Park
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
- Bich Dong Pagoda
- Kenh Ga Hot Springs
- Thung Nham Bird Park
- Bai Dinh Pagoda
Ninh Binh is a true gem in Vietnam, blending natural beauty and history. Whether you pick Tam Coc or Trang An, you’re set for an amazing trip. Choose wisely and get ready to be charmed by this special place.
How to Get to Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is about 100 kilometers south of Hanoi. It’s easy to get there from Hanoi by bus or train. Once you arrive in Ninh Binh, getting to places like Tam Coc or Trang An is simple. Just take a taxi or mototaxi. If you’re coming from Ha Long Bay, a direct bus to Ninh Binh is also available.
Traveling by Bus or Train
To get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you have the option of a bus or a train. The bus ride takes 2.5 to 3 hours. Many bus companies operate this route with plenty of services. Another choice is a train, which takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views of the Vietnamese countryside.
Arriving in Ninh Binh
After arriving in Ninh Binh, getting to places is not hard. For Tam Coc, you can hire a taxi or take a mototaxi from the station. It’s about a 10 to 15-minute ride. To go to Trang An, you can take a taxi or mototaxi too. It takes about 20 to 25 minutes. These places are well within reach from the central transportation points in Ninh Binh.
Direct Bus from Ha Long Bay
If you’re in Ha Long Bay and want to go straight to Ninh Binh, buses are available. This journey takes 4 to 5 hours. It’s a good choice for traveling between these beautiful spots without going back to Hanoi.
| Transportation Option | Travel Time | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh | 2.5 to 3 hours | $5 to $10 |
| Train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh | 2 hours | $7 to $15 |
| Taxi from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc | 10 to 15 minutes | $2 to $5 |
| Taxi from Ninh Binh to Trang An | 20 to 25 minutes | $5 to $10 |
| Bus from Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh | 4 to 5 hours | $10 to $20 |
How Long to Stay in Ninh Binh
Your time in Ninh Binh depends on what you enjoy and your travel goals. Some people choose a day trip from Hanoi, but staying a night is better. This lets you see more sites. Spend two days and you’ll cover much of Ninh Binh’s beauty. If you have more days, a deeper visit is possible, letting you uncover hidden places.
Even a day in Ninh Binh offers a taste of its beauty. You can enjoy a boat trip and see some main spots. But, there is a lot beyond these famous places. More days will unveil the full beauty of the region.
Good planning makes for a great Ninh Binh visit. First, list what you want to see most. Consider must-see spots like the Trang An boat ride and the Mua Cave view. Don’t miss Hoa Lu, Cuc Phuong, and Van Long Nature.
Looking for local life? Try biking around, Am Tien lake visit, or seeing the villages. And Ninh Binh is foodie heaven. Try their special dishes for a real treat.
In summary, how long you stay in Ninh Binh is up to you. But staying overnight is a good start. This lets you see lots and truly enjoy Ninh Binh’s wonders.
Trang An Boat Tour
In Ninh Binh, the Trang An boat tour is a top attraction. This journey takes you through rivers and lakes. You’ll see karst mountains and visit river caves and old temples.
Trang An boat tour is quiet compared to Tam Coc. It lets you enjoy the beauty without too many people around.
To see the best sights and avoid crowds, choose Route 1. This way, you’ll witness amazing views of nature, like limestone cliffs and clear waters. Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This tour takes about three hours. During this time, you can explore the stunning area. Enjoy the peace and see historic places.
Mua Cave Viewpoint
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
For stunning views of Ninh Binh, head to the Mua Cave viewpoint. You’ll climb 500 stairs to the top of a mountain. Here, you’ll see the beautiful Tam Coc boat ride and green rice fields below. This spot is perfect for amazing photos and is loved by many.
Other Amazing Things to Do in Ninh Binh
Aside from the Trang An boat tour and the Mua Cave viewpoint, Ninh Binh has much more to offer. It caters to history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those looking to unwind. Some top activities include:
Visit the Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu
Experience Ninh Binh’s rich history at the ancient Hoa Lu capital. You’ll see ancient temples, pagodas, and royal palaces here. Dive into the stories of the Dinh and Le dynasties as you walk through ancient ruins.
Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
Get close to nature at Cuc Phuong National Park. It’s a home to a vast range of plants and animals, some endangered. Join a guided tour or hike its trails. Don’t miss the thousand-year-old tree and the limestone caves.
Bird Watching at Van Long Nature Reserve
Van Long Nature Reserve is a paradise for bird watchers. Enjoy a boat tour to see herons, egrets, and more in their natural habitat.
Cycle Around the Countryside
Experience the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh by bike. You’ll ride through rice fields, villages, and countryside. It’s a great way to connect with the local culture and enjoy the calm.
Visit Am Tien Lake
For a serene escape, visit Am Tien Lake. Walk along its shores, view the lotus flowers, and enjoy the calm. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation.
Ninh Binh is packed with incredible sights and activities. It blends history with stunning landscapes, drawing in visitors from all over. Don’t miss these places on your Ninh Binh trip for unforgettable memories.
Tips and Advice for Visiting Ninh Binh
Planning a trip to Ninh Binh? Here’s how to enhance your visit and make it more fun. Remember these tips:
Respect Local Culture and Customs
At Ninh Binh’s temples and pagodas, dress with modesty to respect the culture. Cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid tight clothes. Remember to take off your shoes before entering and watch your behavior closely.
Book Accommodations in Advance
Ninh Binh is always busy, especially in peak seasons. To avoid last-minute stress, book your stay early. This lets you pick from more choices, whether you want a hotel, guesthouse, or homestay.
Explore with Flexibility
Want to see Ninh Binh’s beauty? Rent a motorbike or bicycle for freedom. You can explore the countryside leisurely and find amazing spots. Rental shops in town offer easy-to-use vehicles.
Properly Prepare for the Weather
Get ready for Ninh Binh’s hot, humid weather, especially in summer. Pack light, breezy clothes and essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle at all times.
“Respect the local customs, book your accommodations in advance, explore with flexibility, and prepare for the weather. These tips will ensure an unforgettable experience in Ninh Binh, Vietnam.”
Follow these tips for a great time in Ninh Binh. From diving into local traditions to marveling at nature, your experience will be memorable.
Conclusion
Ninh Binh is a truly captivating destination in Vietnam. It’s full of amazing highlights and attractions. From the Trang An boat tour to the Mua Cave viewpoint, you’ll find beauty and history. It’s perfect whether you like adventure or just want to relax.
Ninh Binh has breathtaking scenery. This includes karst mountains, rice fields, and wetlands. There are also ancient temples and historical sites. They show the region’s deep cultural roots.
Before visiting, check out our travel guide for tips. It covers both famous spots and hidden gems. Let it be your key to exploring Ninh Binh well. So, get ready to travel to Ninh Binh for an amazing experience.
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
