Discover the charms of Ninh Binh, which proudly embodies natural beauty combined with history and adventure for northern Vietnam. Often referred to as the “Land Halong Bay," these are places where a tourist can go to see breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and spiritual sites. Cruising through the picturesque Tam Cốc karst formations, historical visits to Hoa Lư Ancient Capital, or feeling serene in the environment at Bái Đính Pagoda-there’s something for everyone. For this guide, we’ll help you choose the Ideal Duration for a Ninh Binh Trip and come up with tailor-made itineraries for 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days. Let this tour bring us to a journey that will never fade in our memories!
Planning the Ideal Duration for a Ninh Binh Trip involves several factors that come into play when determining how much time you need to appreciate this beautiful place. From natural wonders to historical and cultural landmarks, Ninh Binh has something enriching that it can offer. Whether you’re here for a day or several days, let me guide you through what each trip duration has to offer!
If you like nature, you have to visit Tam Coc, which is well-known for its boat trips through limestone karst mountains and rice fields. Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage site with an equally breathtaking boat tour through emerald rivers and hidden caves, while Hang Mua offers a perfect panoramic viewpoint for breathtaking photos after an exciting hike up 500 stone steps. Each of the following places gives its view of the dramatic landscapes of Ninh Binh and should be factored into the length of stay.
For lovers of history and culture, Ninh Binh Tours offers some of the most regarded destinations in Vietnam: Bai Đinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia, with a spiritual ambiance that is worth seeing and striking architecture, while Hoa Lu Ancient Capital takes you to the origins of the Vietnamese royal history; the unique structure of Phat Diem Cathedral perfectly combines Eastern and Western architectural styles and is a very special place to visit.
Another huge factor in this process is at what speed you travel. Could you be a laid-back traveler who takes your time getting soaked in the atmosphere, lingering over every moment? Or is it that you are burning the roads and speedily moving places? Let’s get into the trip lengths here:
Basic Day Trip for those in a hurry focused on iconic Ninh Binh highlights such as Tam Coc, an unforgettable boat ride through the karsts, and visits to Bai Đinh Pagoda. Though no single day will allow you to see everything, you’ll take something of Ninh Binh’s natural and spiritual beauty with you whenever you leave. This would be great, especially if you are looking for something just that little bit out of town from Hanoi.
With a bit more time, you can fit in an excellent combination of natural landscapes and historical areas of interest in Ninh Binh on a two-day excursion. On the first day, take in the breathtaking views at both Trang An and Hang Mua after mornings of exploration. Dedicate the second day to the spiritual part of Ninh Binh: start with Bai Đinh Pagoda and proceed with the historic site of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. This length of trip strikes a good balance between adventure and culture, and as such, is ideal for travelers who want more than a passing glimpse.
The ideal number of days that an Ideal Duration for a Ninh Binh Trip would take to cover the whole experience is three. That way, one would have much more time to see not only the famous Tam Coc and Trang An but also hidden spots such as Phat Diem Cathedral and Thung Nham Bird Garden. One could take things more calmly, allowing for accidental discoveries and enjoying oneself by trying local dishes. A third day also gives you time for trekking or visiting other destinations that are off the beaten track and see that you leave with a complete sense of what Ninh Binh Tours has to offer.
It will be ideal for all visitors to the city, be it for 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days. Let’s start our adventure to Ninh Binh!
7:00 AM: Depart from Hanoi
Start the day early, leaving Hanoi by 7:00 AM. The drive to Ninh Binh takes about two hours, which is just enough to give you a glimpse of the countryside on the way there. You may want to get your camera ready, as the scenery turns more and more picturesque as you approach Ninh Binh.
10:00 AM: Explore Thung Nham Bird Garden
Thung Nham Bird Garden
Arriving in Ninh Binh, drive to visit Thung Nham Bird Garden, one of the most beautiful places in this area, full of peace and nature. From herewith, go down to the specified spot for bird observation under some terrific green lush, home of thousands and thousands of bird species. Still, feeling adventurous? Take a kayak and paddle into some breathtaking caves around, such as Hang But and Hang Toi-no doubt, some of the hidden jewels, visually stimulating, and at the same time tucked away for a quiet getaway from the bustling metropolis. It is one of the best ways to get started with Ninh Binh Tours.
12:30 PM: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
After such a morning adventure, it’s time to refill your tank with local specialty food. Head to a local restaurant and try some of its most famous specialties: goat meat and rice crust, or cơm cháy. This is indeed not a meal to remember, but the taste of local ingredients and flavors just perfectly grasps the essence of Ninh Binh.
2:00 PM: Visit Tam Coc – Bich Đong
Tam Coc – Bich Đong
Then, head to the famous Tam Coc – Bich Đong, aka “Halong Bay on Land." Board your sampan boat-like a traditional one-and start your cruise in the Ngo Dong River. You will pass through three fabulous caves, namely Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba while catching glimpses of some towering limestone karsts and lush rice paddies surrounding this serpentine river. You will feel like you are inside a real-life painting! The tour continues by taking a boat while visiting Bich Đong Pagoda, an ancient pagoda nestled on the side of a mountain that provides much-needed peace and serenity in an unforgettable setting.
5:00 PM: Check Into the Hotel and Free Time
Check in to your hotel after an eventful day. Take some time to relax or explore the local markets and restaurants nearby. If you are still full of energy, why not choose to visit Hang Mua? Climb all 500 stone steps to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding rice fields, perfect at sunset.
This is a schedule for 2 or 3-day stayers who can delve deep into its cultural and historical aspects.
8:00 AM: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda
On your second day, start with a visit to the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex. You will see a pagoda, but inside can be found gigantic Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and the impressive Arhat corridor, which is the longest in all of Asia. You feel almost Peaceful and spiritually calm as you walk through the compound. Therefore, this site should not be missed for those who desire to feel the local culture. The views are just as impressive from the pagoda; that is wide-screen panoramas of the Ninh Binh countryside.
11:00 AM: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
After a very spiritual morning, sit for lunch in yet another local treasure. Savor typical dishes of Ninh Traditional goat dishes or fresh fish from nearby rivers.
1:00 PM: Explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
Next, in the afternoon, the trip will move to one of the most beautiful sights of Ninh Binh: Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll take another boat ride, but this time you will go floating through a maze of caves, each with its unique character. Hang Sáng meaning Bright Cave, Hang Toi Dark Cave and the mystical-sounding Hang Ba Co (Three Girls Cave) are at your fingertips. Paddling through the serene waters, take in the lush surroundings and marvel at the towering limestone cliffs that surround you. Trang An is a natural masterpiece while the boat tour forms the heart of any Ninh Binh Tours experience.
4:00 PM: Return to the Hotel and Relax
After a day full of culture and nature, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. Free time to relax or explore the villages nearby, to get a feeling for local life.
In the case of a 3-day tour, this last day will introduce the guest to some of Ninh Binh’s other wonders that are less known but equally captivating.
8:00 AM: Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Your final morning is taken up by a time-travel adventure to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Located here, the political and cultural center of Vietnam dating back more than 1,000 years to the Dinh and Le Dynasties, is not to be missed. The existence of two old temples, one in honor of Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng and the other of Emperor Lê Đại Hành, invites imagination of life in this ancient capital. The history enthusiast will appreciate the depth of Ninh Binh regarding history.
10:30 AM: Phat Diem Cathedral
Phat Diem Cathedral
Back in action, explore the most unique thing: Phat Diem Cathedral a magnificent stone structure with a perfect combination of Eastern and Western architectural styles. This stunning cathedral, also more popularly known as “Stone Church," is one of the secret treasures of Ninh Binh Tours a tranquil retreat promised to citizens, an architectural novelty. Walk through its serene courtyards and marvel at intricate stone carvings depicting Vietnamese culture through a Catholic lens.
12:30 PM: Lunch and Leisure
Lunch will be enjoyed in a local restaurant, then free time to meander in local shops or simply sit and relax in the countryside. For those ready to squeeze in one more adventure, consider a visit to Van Long Nature Reserve, a less touristy, but very beautiful wetlands area appropriate for a quiet boat ride among nature.
3:00 PM: Depart Back to Hanoi
Full of unforgettable memories in the heart, it’s now time to bid farewell to Ninh Binh. You will be driven back to Hanoi and around 5:30 PM, this journey will meet its end.
Now, planning your Ideal Duration for a Ninh Binh Trip is just the beginning! Being well-prepared will help make the most of this experience. Whether you visit for one day or three, the following essential tips ensure that your journey of exploration through Ninh Binh is smooth, safe, and full of memories.
First and foremost, pack smart! Most Ninh Binh Tours involve walking, hiking, and some boat rides, so remember to bring :
In the Ideal Duration for a Ninh Binh Trip, we strongly recommend planning your visit to the area during the autumn period September to November-or the spring season from March to May-seasons that offer the most pleasant kinds of weather with cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and rice paddies in full bloom. Avoid heavy summer rains from June to August, which will make boat tours or hikes even more complicated.
Getting to Ninh Binh from Hanoi is reasonably straightforward and quite cheap. Either take:
Generally safe, Ninh Binh Tours are family-friendly, with a few precautions:
From the stunning landscapes to rich history, cultural treasures-all that a tourist could want Ninh Binh has it all. The Ideal Duration for a Ninh Binh Trip from one day up to three offers memories of unforgettable experiences exploring Tam Coc, visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda, or discovering Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
Choose a pattern itinerary that fits your schedule perfectly, and let Impress Travel take you through Vietnam’s wonders on Ninh Binh Tours. Book the adventure today and get ready to live it! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ninh Binh and to book Ninh Binh Tour at the best prices.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Ninh Binh Tours – Impress Travel offers travelers the daily excursions – Small group deluxe tours, private Ninh Binh Vietnam package tours for the real experience of Ninh Binh’s discovery about the culture, history, tradition, local lifestyle, religion, and admiring of the breathtaking scenery of limestone island, rivers, water rice fields in Tam Coc and national park of Cuc Phuong with trekking and homestay at Muong Family. Ninh Binh Tours and private package tour’s highlights:
