If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi and want to spend the day outside of the city, Ninh Binh is a must-see. A Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi may provide you with a unique and authentic experience. This travel blog will introduce you to four trips that you may add to the itinerary and travel guide for your perfect trip.
How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi?
By bus
To travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by bus, head to Giap Bat bus station in Hanoi. This is the most convenient option for most travelers.
The journey takes about 2-2.5 hours and buses depart regularly throughout the day. You can expect to pay around 70,000–100,000 VND (3-5 USD) for a ticket, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers.
By train
If you prefer a scenic route, consider taking the train from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh. The train journey also takes about 2-2.5 hours and offers picturesque views of the countryside.
Ticket prices range from 60,000-150,000 VND (2.5-6.5 USD) depending on the seat class you choose. This option combines comfort with sightseeing opportunities.
By car
For those seeking the most comfortable but expensive option, a private car or taxi can be arranged through hotels or travel agencies in Hanoi. This journey takes about 1.5-2 hours, offering the fastest and most direct route.
However, it comes at a higher price, typically around 1,500,000–2,000,000 VND (65-85 USD). This option is ideal for groups or those who prioritize convenience and privacy.
By motorbike
Experienced riders might consider renting a motorbike for the journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. This adventurous option takes about 3-4 hours as you follow Highway 1A south.
While it offers flexibility and a chance to experience the countryside up close, it’s only recommended for those comfortable with Vietnamese traffic and road conditions. Be sure to factor in the cost of motorbike rental and fuel, and prioritize safety with proper gear and caution on the roads.
Best itinerary for Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi
1. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave day tour
If you are looking for a day trip with history, culture and nature, the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc and Mua Cave Ninh Binh tours are well worth considering.
Start your day by visiting the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former seat of Vietnam’s first feudal dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries, and spend 1-2 hours exploring the ancient temples, palaces, and historical relics that provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.
Enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch in the town of Tam Coc, known for its picturesque riverside setting and karst landscapes, before boarding a small boat and drifting along the gentle Tam Coc River, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush rice fields. The 2-hour boat ride will take you through three limestone caves carved by the river.
Next, drive to the Mua Cave viewpoint and hike up the 500 steps to the top of the mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Ninh Binh countryside and the winding Tam Coc River.
2. Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, and Mua Cave day tour
This excursion is ideal for history lovers, cultural enthusiasts, or anybody looking for natural beauty away from the city.
Begin your tour with the Bai Dinh Pagoda, which covers 539 hectares! The pagoda itself is a visual treat, with detailed figures and amazing construction.
Continue to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts that soar over attractive rivers and lush flora. Take a leisurely boat trip through this natural wonderland and bask in its serene splendor.
Finally, go to the summit of Mua Cave for breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to take photographs of the wonderful view!
3. Cuc Phuong National Park Ninh Binh day tour
This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, offering a chance to discover the country’s oldest national park and its diverse array of flora and fauna.
Your first stop is the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. This fascinating facility is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of some of Vietnam’s most vulnerable primate species, such as the Delacour’s langur, the golden-headed langur, and the Hatinh langur. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the center’s important work and see these amazing creatures up close.
The main activity of the day is a hike along the Huou Trail, one of the park’s most popular hiking routes. This 2-3 hour walk will take you through the lush primary forests, where you can spot a variety of plant and animal life. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to discover ancient caves, and hidden gems that add to the park’s rich history and natural wonder.
As the hike comes to an end, you’ll visit the Primate Rehabilitation Area, where you can observe the rescued primates as they are gradually reintegrated into their natural habitat. This is a heartwarming and inspiring sight, a testament to the park’s dedication to conservation.
4. Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, Tuyet Tinh Coc, and Hoa Lu day trip
Your adventure begins with the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve. This protected area is renowned for its tranquil lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation. As you glide along the calm waters in a traditional boat, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of waterbirds, as well as the critically endangered Delacour’s langur, a rare primate found only in this region.
After taking in the serene beauty of the wetlands, you’ll head to your next destination, Tuyet Tinh Coc. This picturesque spot is known for its stunning limestone formations, which rise majestically from the serene lake. Take a gentle hike through the lush forests, keeping an eye out for the diverse array of plant and animal life here.
The final stop on your Ninh Binh adventure is the historic Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the impressive ruins of the former royal palaces and temples, learning about the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable region.
Above are just our suggestions. You can also customize your tours with us for your duration and style. Our team of travel experts will help you plan a perfect itinerary for your preference!
Is 1 day enough in Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh day trips are an excellent alternative for those residing in Hanoi or the surrounding areas since they allow them to take a day excursion to Ninh Binh, experience its key attractions, and return to their base in the evening.
Day trips are also ideal for travelers who have limited time or special travel plans and cannot devote more than a day to seeing Ninh Binh. Furthermore, individuals who like guided trips and want a stress-free experience with transportation, itinerary preparation, and professional guides frequently choose Ninh Binh day tours.
To truly appreciate the serene atmosphere and explore these sites, most travelers recommend dedicating at least two to three days to Ninh Binh. This allows you to move at a more leisurely pace, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and culture.
>>> Find more our Vietnam tours that include Ninh Binh:
- Ninh Binh Private Tour 2 days: A perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery with a visit to Trang An ecological site, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave with the price from $137 per person.
- Northern Charm Discovery 8 days: You can visit the best highlights of northern Vietnam including Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh with the price from $607 per person.
- Vietnam Highlights Experience 14 days: A trip to Vietnam highlights will give you a deeper insight into Vietnam’s beautiful landscape, culture, cuisine, and daily life of the locals. The price starts from $1,535 per person.
What to eat in Ninh Binh
When visiting Ninh Binh, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of delectable local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes during your day trip:
- Mountain Snails (Oc nui): unique and flavorful mountain snails, a regional delicacy.
- Ninh Binh Rice Crust (Com chay): Enjoy the crispy and delightful Ninh Binh-style rice crust, a tasty local specialty.
- Mountain Goat Meat (Thit de nui Ninh Binh): Savor the tender and flavorful mountain goat meat, a specialty of the Ninh Binh region.
- Yen Mac Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Chua Yen Mac): Discover the tangy and sweet flavors of the Yen Mac fermented pork roll, a regional specialty.
- Braised Fish with Gao Fruit (Ca kho qua gao): Savor the tender and flavorful braised fish, enhanced by the addition of the gao fruit.
FAQs
What is the distance between Hanoi and Ninh Binh?
The distance between Hanoi and Ninh Binh is approximately 90 km, and the drive takes around 2-2.5 hours.
When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?
The ideal time to visit Ninh Binh is between October and April when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. This time provides for delightful outdoor activities and exploration of the stunning scenery, which includes rice fields, rivers, and limestone karst.
What is the best way to get around Ninh Binh during the day trip?
The most convenient way to get around Ninh Binh is by using a private car or joining a guided tour that provides transportation. You can also explore some areas on foot or by renting a bicycle.
Ninh Binh or Halong Bay
If you’re looking for a more peaceful, intimate, and authentic experience in a stunning natural setting, Ninh Binh might be the better choice. If you’re seeking the more classic, picturesque, and “bucket list” type of experience, Halong Bay may be the more suitable option.
Both Halong Bay and Ninh Binh are easily accessible from Hanoi. If you have more time, think about including the vibrant capital city in your itinerary. A common route taken by travelers is to go from Hanoi to Halong Bay, then on to Ninh Binh and back to Hanoi. This makes it possible for you to effectively investigate all three locations.
>>> Our suggested tour: Best of the Northern Delta Discovery 5 Days
***
Vietnam Travels Online – A Division Brand of Indochina Voyages
Since our founding in 2008, we have risen to become the premier tour operator in Vietnam and beyond. But don’t just take our word for it, 98% of our clients and travelers worldwide rated us excellent on the famed TripAdvisor.
If you are looking for unique and authentic experiences in Vietnam or other countries in Southeast Asia, contact us here or email at [email protected] to get an itinerary designed for your own. Our travel experts promptly response and every step of the way, we will follow you and take care of you as we would a close friend or family member.
