Ninh Binh Vietnam: Complete Travel Guide for a Remarkable Trip

Featuring breathtaking scenery cradled by luxuriant nature, harmoniously blended with rich cultural heritage, Ninh Binh introduces you to an authentic Vietnam. 

In this Ninh Binh Complete Travel Guide, you shall find all the information you need to know about the “Halong Bay on Land", including must-see sites to visit, activities to enjoy, excursions, accommodations, and how to get there to ensure a trouble-free and unforgettable trip.

Things to do in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh: A tapestry woven from sensational natural settings

Ninh Binh presents a treasure trove of magnificent natural landscapes, among which we find Tam Coc, where winding rivers meander between imposing limestone formations, carving out a dream setting for boat trips. Another must-visit in Ninh Binh is Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its intricate network of caves and valleys, providing exciting explorations by kayak or traditional row boat. Van Long, the largest wetland nature reserve in northern Vietnam, presents a sanctuary for flora and fauna, where visitors can observe many rare and endangered species while taking in the serene atmosphere in an intact natural setting. 

Tam Coc: A voyage among fascinating karstic formations

Stands out as one of the most popular attractions in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc boasts breathtaking scenery featuring majestic karst formations and a fascinating network of caves. Every year, in late May and early June, the rice paddies bordering the Ngo Dong River transform into a golden tapestry, marking the beginning of the “Tam Coc Golden Season” festival. This event highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. 

For unforgettable moments in Tam Coc, opt for a two-hour boat tour on the Ngo Dong River to admire the rice paddies up close and tour the three caves: Hang Ca, Hai Hai, and Hang Ba. 

If you wish for a peaceful experience at Tam Coc, we recommend scheduling the morning (around 8 am–9 am) or late afternoon after 3 pm. Don’t forget to tip the rower around $2-$4, depending on how happy you are with the service. A boat can accommodate 2-3 people, but if you are a family with small kids, 4 people is acceptable. Be mindful once entering the caves, as your head might touch the stalactites. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the journey.

Trang An: A stunning symphony of natural beauty and cutural heritage

Welcome to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where nature reveals all its splendor. Let yourself be captivated by the karst formations emerging from the water as you glide in a rowboat on the serene river. Due to its increasing popularity, it’s best to visit Trang An on weekdays and outside peak seasons, such as Tet, or during July and August to avoid long queues.

A boat tour in Trang An usually lasts around 3 to 4 hours. The boats, which can accommodate up to 4 people, are available for 250,000 dong per adult, 120,000 dong for children between 1 and 1.3 meters tall, and free for children under 1 meter. For a more exclusive experience, you can book a private boat for 900,000 dong. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online at https://muave.disantrangan.vn. Ticket offices are open from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends. 

Choose an itinerary that suits your plan:

- Itinerary 1 (3.5 to 4.5 hours) includes 9 caves and 3 spiritual sites

- Itinerary 2 (2.5 to 3 hours) includes 4 caves and 3 spiritual sites

- Itinerary 3 (3 to 3.5 hours) includes 3 caves and 3 spiritual sites with a network of stalactites over 1000 m long.

For summer, we recommend early-morning departures around 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. to avoid the heat and crowds. Feel free to ask the rower for a short pause if you want to capture the magnificent scenery on film. During the excursion, make sure to dress appropriately for the temple visits (if you plan to) and memorize your boat number so you can find it easily afterward. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated. 

Van Long: A Hidden Treasure

Far off the beaten track, Van Long, the largest submerged nature reserve in northern Vietnam, home to exceptional wildlife, promises a unique experience. Van Long Nature Reserve is a habitat of rare species listed in the Red Book of Vietnam, such as Delacour’s langurs, Asian black bears, and Long-banded panthers.

You might catch a glimpse of the Delacour’s langurs during your rowing boat excursion in Van Long Lagoon. According to locals, they are most active at dusk, when the heat has subsided, looking for food.

A rowing boat excursion in Van Long costs 100,000 dong per person and lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. One boat can accommodate 2 to 3 adults, and tickets are available on-site. 

The best times to visit Van Long are from May to June to admire the lotus in full bloom, and from November to April for birdwatching. During summer, leave early in the morning to avoid the heat, and headwear is essential. As for winter, it's important to wear warm clothes for the best experience.

Other than the Van Long Nature Reserve, Van Long offers unforgettable immersion in the typical rural life of the Northern Delta. While in Van Long, take the opportunity to venture by bike through the picturesque villages along the dykes to discover the daily local life. Stop at Madame Lam’s, a skilled embroiderer in Van Lam village, where you can learn and try traditional embroidery. The sacred Thung La Temple and Duc Thanh Nguyen Temple, places of worship for the guardians of the region’s cultural and historical values, are also worth a visit.

Thung Nham - Thien Ha: A Journey to the Core of Nature

You should allow a full day to fully enjoy these two remarkable sites. 

Let the journey begin by exploring the Thung Nham Bird Park, a veritable bird sanctuary, which is home to over 40,000 birds of 46 different species, including rare species such as the purple heron and the black stork. Entrance tickets to Thung Nham cost 150,000 dong for adults, 100,000 dong for children between 1 and 1.30 meters tall, and free for children under 1 meter tall. Opening hours vary: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in summer and 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in winter.

And then move on to the Thien Ha Cave. The 700-meter-long Thien Ha Cave consists of a 200-meter dry cave and a 500-meter water cave, housing the impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites sculpted by time and water. Entrance fees are 120,000 dong for adults and 40,000 dong for children, with a visit lasting around 2 hours. Some stalactites may be within easy reach, but touching them is forbidden! Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water and a hat to protect you from the sun.

The best time to visit Thung Nham and Thien Ha is from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the birds are particularly active.

Mua Cave

Mua Cave invites you on a fascinating yet quite challenging journey where you will ascend 500 stairs flanked by dragons and phoenix statues and finally be rewarded with an exceptional panoramic vista of rugged hills, rice paddies, and the Ngo Dong River gracefully meandering through the enchanting landscape of Tam Coc.

Entrance to Mua Cave costs 100,000 dong per person and is free for children under one meter tall. Tickets are available on-site, and visits generally last between 1 and 1.5 hours.

For a trouble-free experience, ensure you have appropriate footwear that is suitable for hiking, as the steps can be slippery. Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of ideal light for photos and avoid crowds. In winter, be sure you have a warm jacket along, as it can be cold on the summit.

Kenh Ga Floating Village

Kenh Ga is a tranquil village where nature, recreation, and local culture make a beautiful blend. Renowned for its therapeutic thermal spring, Kenh Ga promises you a healing trip in Ninh Binh.

Entrance to the hot mineral springs costs 600,000 dong for adults over 12 and 500,000 dong for children aged 7 to 11.

Pagodas and Temples to visit in Ninh Binh: A journey through History and Spirituality

Not just about spectacular scenery, Ninh Binh is also a land of fascinating architectural and spiritual heritage, epitomized by its large number of pagodas and temples. For those who are keen on Vietnamese history and culture, here are seven must-see sites to explore in Ninh Binh.

Dinh and Le Temples

Inside a setting where architecture blends harmoniously with history, Dinh and Le Temples invite you on a charming journey through time. Dating from the 17th century, these temples represent a living testimony to the region’s cultural heritage. 

Temple entrance is 20,000 dong per person, while children under one meter tall enter free of charge. At the entrance, you will be greeted by vendors selling fruits, incense sticks, and other goods. If you are not interested, a polite refusal will suffice. You can take photos with the buffaloes, but please note that there is an additional charge for this activity.

Bich Dong Pagoda

First built in 1428, the Bich Dong Pagoda was then enlarged and renovated in the 18th century. Its scenic and iconic entrance over an old stone bridge above a lotus pond lends the site a bucolic, mystical charm. This sacred site requires appropriate attire, and since you will have to climb 120 steps to reach the pagoda, comfortable footwear is recommended. Entrance to Bich Dong Pagoda is free.

Phat Diem Cathedral

The Phat Diem Cathedral, built around 1891, is an architectural masterpiece that elegantly marries traditional Vietnamese and Christian Gothic styles. Symbolizing the harmonious fusion of two different cultures, Phat Diem Cathedral tells another tale of Ninh Binh’s history and culture. Entrance to the cathedral is free.

Thung La Temple

Nestled in a tranquil valley surrounded by lush mountains that is 7 kilometers from the Van Long pier, Thung La Temple embodies a sense of history and mystery. Dedicated to the queen mother of King Dien Tien Hoang and the legendary hero Vuong Ba, this sanctuary offers a plunge into a time gone by. The temple also offers a 15-30-minute show featuring traditional Vietnamese instruments. If this experience sounds appealing to you, Authentik Vietnam can help you organize it.

Thai Vi Temple

Tucked away among lush rice fields and rolling hills and located only 1 kilometer from Tam Coc, Thai Vi Temple stands as a profound testament to history, culture, and spirituality. As you approach, you will be welcomed by an ancient banyan tree, which gracefully introduces you to a serene landscape where the Ngo Dong River flows gently and the majestic Coi Linh Mountain reigns over the horizon. This temple, dedicated to the kings of the Tran dynasty, boasts architecture rich in local heritage.

The temple is easily accessible by bike, offering an ideal opportunity to explore the surrounding area. Bike hire costs 100,000 dong per person per hour, and the entrance to Thai Vi Temple is free. While visiting the temple, you can also enjoy a performance of traditional instruments played by the temple’s guardians.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Renowned for its monumental stupas and scenic landscapes, the Bai Dinh Pagoda, located north of the Trang An World Heritage complex, is an architectural feat covering more than 1000 hectares and is considered the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.

The entrance is free. However, to easily move around the immense complex, we recommend you take an electric tuk-tuk, which costs 30,000 dongs per person for a one-way trip and 60,000 dongs for a round trip. Since you are visiting a place of worship, don’t forget to dress appropriately.

Duc Thanh Nguyen Temple

Duc Thanh Nguyen Temple is located in the heart of the peaceful Diem village in Gia Vien district. Built on the foundations of the ancient Vien Quang pagoda, this temple is dedicated to Zem master Nguyen Minh Khong, who founded the pagoda in 1121. Entrance to the temple is free.

An adventure inside the Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam’s first national park, founded in 1962. Covering 25,000 hectares, the park offers visitors an immersive experience to enjoy its lush surroundings and exceptional biodiversity. The park is the habitat of a wide variety of fauna, including rare species such as the Delacour’s langur, one of the region's protected endemic species.

The three areas of the park are:

- The park entrance area, the start of all activities, includes a visitor center, guides, ticket sales points, bike rentals, accommodation, and restaurants.

- The Mac Lake area, 1.5 km from the entrance, offers a peaceful setting, ideal for relaxation.

- The central area, which surrounds Bong Center and is about 20 km from the entrance, marks the end of the route through the forest.

The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking through wooded trails, exploring caves and waterfalls, observing wildlife, such as the Delacour’s langur and multicolored birds, and kayaking on Mac Lake. For nocturnal adventures, guided hikes reveal the park’s nighttime wildlife. There are also folk shows that provide a lively insight into local culture.

The ideal time for a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park is during the dry season, which is from October to April. The rainy season, running from May to September, is less advisable due to mosquitoes and leeches. For butterfly lovers, the period from late April to May is ideal for observing their spectacular migration.

A one-day visit is usually enough to explore the park, but nature lovers can extend their visit to take in the richness of this place fully. Entrance costs 60,000 dongs for adults, 10,000 dongs for children over 5, and is free for the under-5s.

Important precaution: The telephone network and GPS applications are inoperable in the Cuc Phuong forest. It is therefore strongly recommended that you be accompanied by a guide to make the most of your visit and avoid getting lost.

Handicraft villages in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is also renowned for its craft villages, where the passage of time appears to pause, safeguarding traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Van Lam Embroidery Village

Van Lam is a peaceful land where embroidery is elevated to art. In this village, ancestral know-how is passed down through the skilled hands of craftsmen who create works of exceptional finesse. The delicate scent of silk, the murmur of needles, and the high concentration of the embroiderers create an atmosphere serene yet lively.

For those captivated by the beauty of this art form, Madame Lam, a master embroiderer, invites you to join her embroidery classes. With a heartfelt commitment to preserving this traditional craft, she ardently shares her expertise with curious travelers. If you would like to participate in Madame Lam’s embroidery class, Authentik Vietnam is at your service to assist in organizing this enriching experience. 

Ninh Van Stone Carving Village

In Ninh Van Village, the echoes of the sound of hammers and chisels can be heard in every alleyway. This village, located 3.5 kilometers from Tam Coc and 8 kilometers from downtown Ninh Binh, is famous for its refined stone sculptures, reflecting the exquisite know-how handed down for generations. Each work is crafted with exceptional precision, conveys a story, and immortalizes traditional Vietnamese art.

Kim Son Sedge Weaving Village

Located near Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, Kim Son Village stands as a remarkable testament to nearly two centuries of rich tradition. Here, the art of weaving sedge thrives as a time-honored craft. Originally focused on the creation of mats, this exquisite skill has gracefully evolved over the years, now embracing a diverse range of handcrafted products that reflect the village's cultural heritage.

Recommended Itineraries in Ninh Binh 

Hoa Lu- Tam Coc- Hang Mua Cave- Bich Dong

This itinerary offers you an active, immersive day exploring the natural beauty of Ninh Binh, alternating between cycling, hiking, and breathtaking scenery.

Transfer and arrival in Ninh Binh

The journey starts with a transfer from your hotel, heading for Ninh Binh, passing through the verdant landscapes of the Red River Delta.

Visit Hoa Lu

Upon arriving in Hoa Lu, delve into history by visiting the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang of the Dinh dynasty (968-980) and Emperor Le Dai Hanh of the Le dynasty (980-1009). Built in the 17th century, these temples represent the deep gratitude of the Vietnamese people to these two great emperors for their determinant role in the country’s history.

Discover Tam Coc by bike

Next, hop on your bike to explore Tam Coc. Soak yourself into the rural life of the locals as you pedal through vast rice fields and picturesque villages.

Visit the Bich Dong Pagoda

Continue your journey with a visit to the Bich Dong Pagoda, well-known for its enigmatic caves and expansive views over the surroundings. A hearty lunch at a local restaurant follows to replenish your energy.

Embark on an excursion on a rowing boat in Tam Coc

Set off on a rowingboat excursion in Tam Coc. During the peaceful ride, admire the enchanting, almost unreal landscapes that are slowly unveiled as you glide along the waters.

Conquer Hang Mua Cave

End your day with an ascent of the 500 steps leading to the Hang Mua Cave. From the summit, admire the breathtaking view of Tam Coc and the surrounding mountains and villages below. Spend some moments to take in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the statue of the Goddess Guanyin before heading back down.

Van Long - Thung La Temple

This program invites you to the countryside of Ninh Binh, where you will enjoy an immersive and authentic experience.

Transfer and arrival in Ninh Binh

Explore by bike or on foot

Once in Ninh Binh, opt for a 15-kilometer bike ride or a leisurely walk through the local villages. Follow the dike to enjoy landscapes of rice paddies and limestone mountains. Travel at your own pace, stop anywhere you wish to take photos, or interact with the locals.

Visit Thung La Temple

Come and visit the Thung La Temple, dating back to the 11th century. Have a conversation with the temple custodian and enjoy a 20-minute traditional drumming performance.

Rowboat excursion in Van Long

Let the journey continue on a rowing boat along the serene waters through the limestone mountains of the Van Long Nature Reserve. You may spot the endangered Delacour’s langurs and egrets if luck is on your side.

Take part in an embroidery workshop

After the rowboat excursion, visit a nearby embroidery village where you can participate in an embroidery class under the instruction of a local embroiderer.

Trang An- Bai Dinh Pagoda

This program invites you to a day of discovering Ninh Binh’s historical and natural treasures.

Transfer and visit Bai Dinh Pagoda

From your hotel, take a 2-hour drive to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of Southeast Asia’s most impressive Buddhist places of worship. Once you arrive at the immense complex, follow the path lined with 500 stone Arhat statues to get to the main temples.

Exploring while ascending

If your conditions do not permit climbing up 13 stories to reach the top of the stupa, worry not because there is an elevator. Don’t miss the chance to reach the top and be rewarded with panoramic views of Bai Dinh Pagoda, surrounded by a river valley and majestic limestone formations.

Lunch break and boat excursion in Trang An

After lunch, set off for Trang An, which UNESCO recognizes as a mixed natural and cultural property. Embark on a traditional sampan for a cruise through a series of caves and peaceful valleys.

Sightseeing and temple tours

Hop on a boat to visit the peaceful pagodas and temples that venerated the mandarins of the Tran dynasty before returning to the pier to enjoy the enchanting scenery.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Spend a day exploring Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s first nature reserve.

Transfer and arrival at Cuc Phuong National Park

From your hotel, embark on a 2.5-hour drive to the southwest of Hanoi to reach Cuc Phuong National Park.

Hiking in the tropical jungle

Your adventure in Cuc Phuong National Park starts with a pleasant 3- to 4-hour hike through the tropical jungle. As you wander inside the lush setting of the jungle, take time to admire the striking landscapes of limestone valleys and mountains. You can then take a break at a centuries-old abbey. 

Lunch break and exploration in Con Moong Cave

After your lunch at the Bong Center, on the way back, you will visit Con Moong Cave. This cave has been excavated several times and is considered to be Vietnam’s most ancient site, containing traces of humans from the Palaeolithic to the Neolithic.   

Visit the Cuc Phuong’s Endangered Primate Rescue Center

Visit Cuc Phuong’s Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and your journey is close to an end. This is one of the first animal rescue centers in Vietnam and one of the largest primate rescue centers in Southeast Asia. Finally, take a visit to the Turtle Conservation Center before heading back.

Thien Ha- Thung Nham- Phat Diem Cathedral

Delve into the history and culture of Ninh Binh with this one-day exploration.

Rowboat excursion and Thien Ha Cave exploration

Take a small sampan for a rowboat journey through the karst mountains, followed by a hike to Thien Ha cave, where you'll discover hidden treasures by boat. You'll visit a 200-meter-long dry cave and a 500-meter-long wet cave, both featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The adventure continues with a boat ride to Thung Nham, a pristine area free from mass tourism, where you can witness thousands of birds and enjoy the abundant local birdlife in a tranquil environment.

Lunch break and visit to Phat Diem Cathedral

After lunch, head for Phat Diem Cathedral, well known as the Catholic capital of Vietnam. 

Discover Kim Chinh village

Round off the day with a visit to Kim Chinh village, where you can discover knitting workshops and taste a local rice liqueur.

Suggested itineraries that combine Ninh Binh and other destinations 

Mai Chau- Ninh Binh 3 days

Day 1: Hanoi- Mai Chau

Day 2: Mai Chau- Pu Luong, Ninh Binh

Day 3: Ninh Binh- Hanoi

Things to do and to see:

- Encounter with the Muong and the Thai ethnic groups

- Picturesque mountainous landscape in Mai Chau

- Rowboat excursion in Van Long Nature Reserve or in Tam Coc

- Visit Ninh Binh’s cultural sites

Mai Chau-Pu Luong- Ninh Binh 4 days

Day 1: Hanoi- Mai Chau

Day 2: Mai Chau- Pu Luong

Day3: Pu Luong- Ninh Binh

Day 4: Ninh Binh- Hanoi

Things to do and to see:

- Discover the culture of the Thai and the Muong

- Mountainous landscapes in Mai Chau and Pu Luong

- Stroll through the villages and forests

- Stay at local people’s homes in Mai Chau and Ninh Binh

- Rowboat excursion in Van Long Nature Reserve or in Tam Coc

Mai Chau- Pu Luong - Ninh Binh 5 days

Day 1: Hanoi- Mai Chau

Day 2: Mai Chau- Pu Luong

Day 3: Explore Pu Luong

Day4: Pu Luong- Ninh Binh- Van Long

Day 5: Ninh Binh- Hanoi

Things to do and to see:

- Discover the culture of the Thai and the Muong

- The mountainous landscape and verdant setting of the nature reserve

- Hiking in Pu Luong

- Bamboo raft excursion in Pu Luong, rowboat and bicycle excursion in Ninh Binh

Accommodations in Ninh Binh

Depending on your preferences, budget, and itinerary, there is a range of accommodations to choose from to make the most of your stay in Ninh Binh, whether in Tam Coc, Van Long, or downtown Ninh Binh.

Accommodations in Tam Coc

As one of Ninh Binh’s most popular destinations, Tam Coc offers a plethora of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. You will find some of our recommendations for the perfect place to relax and enjoy the enchanting scenery of Tam Coc.

Tam Coc Garden Resort

Surrounded by vast rice paddies, this resort offers cozy rooms with private terraces, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the region’s popular sites.

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort

This 4-star hotel offers elegant rooms with views of the karst mountains, an outdoor pool and a bicycle rental service. 

Contact details for Ninh Binh Charm Hotel & Resort

Address: No. 9, Tam Coc - Bich Dong Tourist Center, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

Tel: 0229 3888 555

Email: info@hiddencharmresort.com

Website: hiddencharmresort.com

Price: From $80/night

Lalita Tam Coc Resort & Spa

Located in the heart of Tam Coc-Bich Dong, a luxurious retreat is awaited at this hotel.

Contact details for Lalita Tam Coc Resort & Spa

Address: Ninh Thang Commune, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

Tel: 02293 844 888

Email: info@lalitahotel.com

Website:lalitahotel.com

Price: From $70/night

Le Clos du Fil Boutique Hotel & Spa

Nestled in a 700-year-old craft village, this hotel, exuding Vietnamese charm, is perfect for those who wish for a cultural immersion.

Contact details for Le Clos du Fil Boutique Hotel & Spa

Address: Van Lam village, Ninh Hai commune, Ninh Binh

Tel: 0865 111 465

Price: From $61/night

Chez Loan Hotel

This 3-star hotel in Tam Coc offers affordable, comfortable stays for visitors exploring the region.

Contact details for Chez Loan Hotel

Address: Ninh Hai commune, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh

Tel: 0917 956 669

Price: From $38/night

Accommodations in Van Long

Van Long, more authentic and less touristy than Tam Coc, is perfect for those seeking tranquility.

Nep House

More than just a lodging facility, Nep House is an immersion in Vietnamese authenticity. This homestay, tucked away in a small alley of Gia Vien district, offers a genuine immersion into the heart of Vietnamese culture, featuring beautifully decorated rooms of local artistry and a steadfast dedication to supporting the surrounding community.

>> Read more: Nếp House, more than just a place to stay the night near Van Long, Ninh Binh

Contact details for Nep House

Tel: 0912 121 091

Email: nephappyflow@gmail.com

Website: nephouses.com

Price: From $50/night

Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort

Set near the Van Long Nature Reserve, Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort features lush greenery and impressive architecture inspired by the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.

Contact details for Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort

Tel: 0968 699 690

Email: info@emeraldaresort.com.

Website : emeraldaresort.com.

Price: From $100/night

Van Long Family Homestay

Van Long Family Homestay offers a pleasant stay in the heart of Mai Trung Village, ideal for visitors who wish to discover the beauty of Van Long.

Contact details for Van Long Family Homestay

Tel: 0981 088 456

Email:vanlongfamily@gmail.com.

Price: From $18/night

Accommodations in downtown Ninh Binh

Lodging in the center of Ninh Binh is perfect for those seeking easy access to the city’s historic sites, markets, and restaurants.

Ninh Binh Legend Hotel

This 5-star hotel offers an opulent stay featuring spacious rooms and breathtaking views of the surrounding rural landscapes.

Contact details for Ninh Binh Legend Hotel

Address: 177 Le Thai To

Tel: 0229 3899 880

Email: info@ninhbinhlegendhotel.com.

Website: ninhbinhlegendhotel.com.

Price: From $80/night

The Reed Hotel

A 4-star hotel in the heart of downtown, perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience close to local attractions.

Contact details for The Reed Hotel

Address: Dinh Dien Street, Dong Thanh Ward, Ninh Binh 

Tel: 0229 388 9979

Email: welcome@thereedhotel.com.

Website: thereedhotel.com

Price: From $53/night

How to get to Ninh Binh

Now that you have chosen your accommodation in Ninh Binh, it’s time to think of how to get to this fascinating destination. Below is a detailed guide on how to get to Ninh Binh from various destinations, including available transport options and suggestions for reliable transport companies that ensure a comfortable journey.

Travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is situated around 95 kilometers from downtown Hanoi and 130 kilometers from Noi Bai Airport. Several means of transport are available, but the limousine is most recommended for its comfort and practicality.

Travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by limousine

Duy Khang Limousine is one of the most popular options, with frequent departures from Hanoi city center and Noi Bai Airport. The ticket costs 170 000 dong per passenger, and departures are every hour from 5 am to 8 pm. You can easily book your ticket by phone at 1900 3086 or 096 139 3523 (WhatsApp). Tickets can also be purchased on their website: www.xeduykhang.vn.

Limousine Trang An is another option, with ticket prices starting from 155,000 dong per passenger. To book your ticket, contact them at 1900 0336 or visit their website at www.xetrangan.vn.

Ninh Binh Car offers a limousine transfer option from 170,000 dong, picking you up from Noi Bai Airport or Hanoi city center for a trip to Ninh Binh. Contact them at 084 760 1991 or 083 9292 688, or visit their website at www.ninhbinhcar.com to book your ticket.

Daiichi Travel is another company that provides comfortable limousines from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. For more information or to book your ticket, visit their website at www.daiichitravel.com or call 0961 004 4709.

Travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by train

For those looking for a more economical alternative, the train is a viable choice from downtown Hanoi, at 126,000 dong per passenger. Tickets can be booked on the railway's official website: dsvn.vn

Travel from Halong to Ninh Binh

The distance between Halong and Ninh Binh is around 215 kilometers. Transportation options include limousines and buses.

The Long Travel: Daily departures at 12:30 p.m. from Tuan Chau Port. For booking, call 0911 88 66 55.

Sapa Discovery Travel proposes 9-seater limousine and 33-seater bus services. Tickets can be booked online.

Techbus VN offers 9-seater limousines. Contact them at 098 560 358.

Travel from Cat Ba to Ninh Binh

The distance between Cat Ba and Ninh Binh is around 200 kilometers. To reach Ninh Binh from Cat Ba island, several transport options are available, including direct buses operated by The Long Travel, Daiichi Travel, and Cat Ba Discovery. The fare for a 4.5-hour trip is 320,000 dong. These companies will take you directly to downtown Ninh Binh or to your hotel in Tam Coc or Trang An. Here's how to make your booking:

The Long Travel: 0911 88 66 55

Daiichi Travel: Departures from Cat Ba at 8 am, 12:30 pm, 4 pm.

Hotline: 096 1004 709.

Website: www.daiichitravel.com

Cat Ba Discovery: Departures from Cat Ba at 9 am, 1 pm, 4 pm.

Hotline: 0986 062 233 or 0986 082 233.

Website: www.catbadiscovery.com.

Travel from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh

The drive from Mai Chau to Tam Coc is around 140 kilometers. The most practical option for this journey is to take a limousine or bus. Thai Travel Bus and Pu Luong Express Bus offer a limousine service for 320,000 dong, with a journey time of around 3.5 hours, departing from Mai Chau.

Pu Luong Express Bus: Departure from Mai Chau at 1:30 pm.

Hotline: 0982 170 221 and 0964 756 592 (Whatsapp).

Website: www.puluongexpressbus.com

Thai Travel Bus

Hotline: 097 205 8696

Travel from Pu Luong to Ninh Binh

The journey from Pu Luong to Tam Coc is similar to that from Mai Chau. Several bus companies offer services for this route, with fares ranging from 360,000 dong to 380,000 dong for a  3.5-hour trip.

Contact these companies to book your bus ticket for the Pu Luong - Ninh Binh route:

Pu Luong Express Bus: Departure from Mai Chau at 1:30 pm

Hotline: 0982 170 221 and 0964 756 592 (WhatsApp)

Website: www.puluongexpressbus.com

Ninh Binh FootPrint Travel: 

Hotline: 0917 805 355. 

Website: www.ninhbinhfootprint.com

Dung Ngoc Limousine:

Hotline: 0941 289 289 -  0987 421 986 – 0982 999 994

Website: www.dungngoclimousine.com

Travel from Hue to Ninh Binh

Travel from Hue to Ninh Binh by train

With a long travel distance of 570 kilometers from Hue to Ninh Binh, trains are a popular choice for travelers who wish to admire the landscape along the way. For those who wish to save on accommodation fees, a night train is an amazing option. A ticket for a train from Hue to Ninh Binh can be booked online at www.dsvn.com.vn with prices ranging from 330,000 to 1,500,000 dong.

Travel from Hue to Ninh Binh by sleeper bus

Another option for traveling from Hue to Ninh Binh is taking the sleeper bus, with a cost starting from 500 000 dong for a 10.5-hour trip. Here are a few companies for your reference:

Queen Cafe: 0243 928 3666

Green Trips: 0936 154 283/ Email: greentripvietnam@gmail.com

Camel Travel: 0234 3829 456

Ninh Binh Foot Print Travel: 0917 805 355. Website: www.ninhbinhfootprint.com

Travel from Hue to Ninh Binh by plane

This is the less time-consuming option to get to Ninh Binh from Hue. However, since there is no airport in Ninh Binh, your flight, departing from Phu Bai International Airport, will land at Noi Bai International Airport, and you will need to find a transfer to Ninh Binh.

Travel to Ninh Binh from Phong Nha

To reach Ninh Binh from Phong Nha- Ke Bang National Park, you will first need to travel to Dong Hoi, some 50 kilometers away. The B4 bus runs between these two destinations, but cabs are a more comfortable option:

Taxi Mai Linh : 052 3845 888

Taxi Dong Hoi : 052 3841 841

Taxi Xuyen Viet : 052 3848 484

From Dong Hoi, you can opt for the train, which provides several departures daily, or the sleeper bus. Here are some bus companies:

Tan Kim Chi: 0905 2222 65

Van Luc Tung : 0915 363 377

The distance between Phong Nha and Ninh Binh is approximately 400 kilometers, which takes about 6.5 hours by bus.

When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

With each passing season, Ninh Bình exudes a unique charm, inviting visitors to embrace unforgettable experiences.

Spring

With the arrival of spring, Ninh Binh transforms into a colorful palette: the shades of green from vast rice paddies, the grey from limestone formations that rise majestically from water, and the blue from the clear sky. Temperatures are pleasantly mild, allowing visitors to explore the enchanting landscapes in optimal conditions.

Summer

Summer in Ninh Binh is characterized by intense heat and high humidity. Temperatures can reach stifling levels, but this in no way detracts from the beauty of the region. Cooling waterfalls and shady caves provide natural shelter from the summer heat. In the evening, the night markets come alive, offering the perfect opportunity to discover local life from a different angle.

Fall

Fall is often considered the best time to visit Ninh Binh owing to the mild weather, favoring explorations, and various outdoor activities. This season offers a wonderful opportunity to visit temples and pagodas that dot the landscape, cycle through the rice paddies to feel the gentle breeze while taking in the vibrant hues of nature, and bask in the serene tranquility, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Winter

Winter in Ninh Binh gives an invigorating coolness and a serene atmosphere. Temperatures can sometimes drop below 10 degrees, but the sun is still there to make the days pleasant for outdoor activities. This is also the best time to observe the migratory birds that gather in the region's wetlands. The peaceful beauty of Ninh Bình's winter countryside is a captivating and soothing sight.

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