Experience Ninh Binh’s natural wonders on our day tour from Hanoi. Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, cruise the Ngo Dong River by sampan, explore Mua Cave’s mountaintop, and enjoy local cuisine. Book your “Halong Bay on Land” adventure today!
CHILDREN‘S PRICE
Under 1-4 years old: FOC (applied for the case of 2 adults with 1 child)
From 5 to 8 years old: 75 % Adult‘s price
From 9 years old and above: Adult
Notes: In the case of 2 children in a family, the children’s price is applied for the first child under 9 years. The Adult’s price will be applied to the second child.
For booking during the Tet Holiday (Jan 27, 2025 – Feb 2, 2025), contact us for direct booking
If you’re visiting Vietnam and want a break from the busy streets of Hanoi, you can consider Ninh Binh. This destination feels like another world and is just a 2-hour drive from Hanoi. It’s a great option for a day trip for travelers exploring northern Vietnam. With its ancient capitals, scenic boat rides, and beautiful views, your visit will create unforgettable memories and plenty of photos to share. Let’s see why you should put a Ninh Binh tour 1 day at the top of your travel list!
Why Choose a Ninh Binh City Tour?
1. Explore UNESCO heritage sites
Ninh Binh is home to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its amazing natural beauty and cultural significance. You can take a boat ride through stunning limestone cliffs, enter intriguing caves, and learn about ancient Vietnamese dynasties from knowledgeable guides. It’s not just a tour; it’s a trip back in time.
2. Ideal day trip from Hanoi
A trip to Ninh Binh is convenient and easy. It’s just a short ride from Hanoi, and you’ll have a whole day to explore without feeling rushed. You’ll head back to the city in the evening, giving you time to relax or continue your adventure.
3. Experience nature and history
Ninh Binh offers a wonderful mix of natural scenery and rich history. Enjoy the peaceful rivers of Tam Coc and visit the historical ruins of Hoa Lu. Don’t forget to climb to the top of Hang Mua for breathtaking views. It feels like stepping into a postcard!
Doesn’t this sound like the escape you’ve been looking for? Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect during your Ninh Binh city tour.
What to Expect from a Vietnam Ninh Binh Tour 1 Day?
1. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Visit Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam from the 10th and 11th centuries. You will see well-preserved temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, set in lush greenery and surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains.
Your guide will tell you stories about ancient dynasties, heroic battles, and the importance of this historic site. Walk through peaceful courtyards and admire the detailed architecture, which shows the artistry and spiritual depth of Vietnam’s early rulers.
2. Tam Coc
Take a traditional sampan boat for a peaceful trip along the Ngo Dong River. As you float on the water, you will see tall limestone hills, golden rice fields, and quiet countryside views.
The main attraction is exploring three caves: Ca Cave (the largest), Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. Each cave has its own unique shape and a calm atmosphere. This is a great opportunity to relax, take beautiful photos, and enjoy the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.
3. Hang Mua
You can climb 500 stone steps to reach the top of Hang Mua for an adventure. The hike is challenging, but you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the Tam Coc area, featuring rice fields and rocky peaks.
You can look for goats grazing on the cliffs as you climb, and remember to take a picture from the summit, especially at sunset when the landscape shines with golden light.
Sample Itinerary for Ninh Binh Day Tour (Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Hang Mua)
Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but we have a simple itinerary for an unforgettable day in Ninh Binh tour 1 day. Here’s your adventure:
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: Pick-up in Hanoi
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Then you can enjoy a comfortable 120-kilometer drive through the beautiful Vietnamese countryside, filled with rice fields and small villages. We’ll make a quick stop along the way for you to stretch, grab a coffee, or enjoy the view.
10:00 AM: Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel
Your first stop is Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital. You will visit the 17th-century temple dedicated to King Dinh. Then, let’s take in the beautiful architecture and listen to interesting stories about Vietnam’s early dynasties from your guide. This peaceful place is a great way to start your day.
11:15 AM – 12:30 PM: Climb to Ngoa Long Peak at Hang Mua
Next, we’ll go to Mua Cave for some adventure. Get ready to climb 500 steps to Ngoa Long Peak. Along the way, you’ll see goats on the rocky cliffs and lush green plants on the mountains. When you reach the top, enjoy stunning views of Ninh Binh, including Tam Coc and the Trang An Mountains.
1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious local lunch
After your climb, it’s time for lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes like goat meat, crispy rice, and fresh vegetables, all prepared with local flavors. This meal will help you recharge for the afternoon adventures.
2:30 PM: Sampan boat ride through Tam Coc
The highlight of your day is a relaxing boat ride on the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc. You’ll ride in a traditional sampan boat, rowed by a local.
Glide through calm waters, surrounded by tall limestone cliffs and lush rice fields. You’ll visit three caves: Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. The cool air and unique formations in the caves create a magical experience. This 2-hour journey lets you relax and connect with nature.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Return to Hanoi
After a day of exploring, we’ll head back to Hanoi. You will enjoy the serene drive as you reflect on the amazing sights you’ve seen.
7:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Drop-off in Hanoi
We’ll drop you off at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, ending a fantastic day of adventure, history, and beautiful scenery.
What makes this itinerary special?
It offers a balance of history, nature, and adventure.
You’ll have time to relax and enjoy local food.
It’s great for people short on time but wanting to explore Vietnam’s countryside.
As you can see, this itinerary helps you see the highlights of Ninh Binh without feeling rushed.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh?
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Ninh Binh. The weather is nice, with mild to warm temperatures. The landscapes are very green, making a boat ride through Tam Coc especially beautiful.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings cooler weather and golden rice fields. This is a great time for photographers, especially when climbing Hang Mua for stunning views of the countryside.
Avoid the rainy season (July to August)
Ninh Binh is beautiful all year, but the rainy season can make some activities difficult. Hiking and boat rides can be less enjoyable due to muddy paths and higher water levels.
Festive season (January to February)
If you want to experience Vietnamese culture, visit during the lunar new year (Tet). This time there are local festivals and a lively atmosphere around places like Hoa Lu and Bai Dinh Pagoda.
No matter what season you decide to visit Ninh Binh, I’ve got some friendly travel tips to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest:
Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for the climb at Hang Mua.
If you’re coming during the warmer months, don’t forget to pack some sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to keep you safe while exploring.
A lightweight rain jacket or poncho can be a lifesaver if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
When checking out the beautiful temples in Hoa Lu, remember to dress modestly. It’s always good to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for the cultural and spiritual significance of these places.
Ninh Binh is full of breathtaking views, so be sure to keep your devices charged up.
Wrapping Up Your Ninh Binh Adventure!
A tour of Ninh Binh City offers you deep into Vietnam’s beautiful landscapes and rich history. You will explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, glide along the peaceful waterways of Tam Coc, and climb the heights of Hang Mua. Each moment is full of excitement.
Ninh Binh tour 1 day works well whether you are traveling alone, with family, or in a group. It promises a smooth and unforgettable experience. Are you ready to discover Ninh Binh? Let’s book your tour with Vietnam Backpacker Hostel right today!
Additional Information
Included
Round trip transfer by shuttle bus Ha Noi - Ninh Binh - Ha Noi
English-speaking tour guide
Lunch buffet/set menu
All entrance fees are indicated in the itinerary
Boat to visit Tam Coc
Not Included
Beverage during lunch
Personal expenses
Any service that is not indicated in our itinerary
Tips & Gratuity
Tour schedule
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM
Our guide will pick you up at your accommodation in the Old Quarter of Hanoi and start the 120 km journey through the verdant landscape to Ninh Binh.
(Make a stop on the way for a rest)
10:00 AM
Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel with the temple of King Dinh dating back to the 17th Century.
11:15 AM - 12:30 PM
Visit Mua Cave and climb Mua mountain to conquer Ngoa Long Peak – a masterpiece not to be missed when arriving in Ninh Binh.
(On the way up the mountain, you can see herds of goats climbing the rocky cliffs in search of food, or the green shrubs and orchids. From the top of Ngoa Long, you can zoom in to see the whole beauty of Ninh Binh, including the Tam Coc area and the mountains of Trang An)
1:00 PM
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with the local cuisine
2:30 PM
Take a sampan boat trip which is rowed by local people, gently sailing along the Tam Coc Cave, and visit three caves: Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave (2 hours).
(FYI: Ca Cave is the largest and most beautiful cave, with a length of 127m, located under a large mountain crossing the Ngo Dong River)