Ninh Binh one day tour from Hanoi – What Should you do in only one day trip ?
Ninh Binh One Day Tour offers a perfect blend of rivers, caves, culture, history, and relaxation. This stunning province has more attractions than you might expect for a day trip from Hanoi. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy fresh air free from smoke, dust, and noise, it’s time to plan your getaway. Join Hanoi Explore Travel to embark on your unforgettable journey with our Ninh Binh One Day Tour!
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Take a trip around tourist destinations
Hoa Lu ancient capital
Once you get here, you will stay in the capital of Vietnam during the reigns of Dinh king (968 – 980) and the beginning of Le king (980 – 1009). Hoa Lu capital has an area of about 3 km2 with temples, shrines and the king’s palace
The royal family lives in the inner city. It’s very peaceful inside the complex and you can wander on your own or with the help of the temple guides who work for free.
The ancient capital of Hoa Lu is surrounded by high ranges of limestone mountains creating a solid wall to protect the ancient capital.
In the northwest of the ancient capital, adjacent to the Hoang Long River, the city is kept cool by the prevailing wind from river during the hot summer months and provides a convenient waterway for commerce and other businesses.
Tam Coc – A Must-Visit Destination on your Ninh Binh One Day Tour
Tam Coc, also known as “Halong Bay on Land,” is a breathtaking destination in Ninh Binh. If you haven’t visited Halong Bay before, imagine towering limestone mountains rising dramatically from the water—except here, they stretch along both sides of the serene Ngo Dong River, creating a truly majestic landscape.
A highlight of any Ninh Binh One Day Tour, Tam Coc features three stunning caves:
- Ca Cave – The largest, measuring 127 meters in length
- Middle Cave – A scenic 70-meter passage
- End Cave – A cozy yet fascinating 40-meter cave
The best way to explore these natural wonders is by taking a Tam Coc boat tour, which lasts about two hours. As you glide along the river, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable experience. The ticket price is 195,000 VND per person.
For a comfortable trip, bring essentials like drinking water, a hat, an umbrella, and sun-protective clothing to avoid sunburn. A thin raincoat is useful for summer showers, while a light jacket is recommended for winter visits.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Tam Coc on your Ninh Binh One Day Tour—a journey filled with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural charm!
Bich Dong pagoda
Bich Dong Pagoda ,which is 2 kilometers from Tam Coc depot, means “ the emerald cave”.
It is named in 1773 by chancellor Nguyen Nghiem. In front of the cave is a branch of the Ngo Dong river winding around the moutain slope. There is a field opposite the cave.
Thai Vi temple
Thai Vi Temple is located in Van Lam Hamlet, Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District. It is on the right of the Ngo Giang river and on the left of Coi Linh mountain, which brings the perfect harmony for thousands of years and creates Tam Coc as today, which is also known as “ shallow Ha Long Bay”.
Visiting here, we not only can feel poetic beauty of mountains and rivers, but also admire the fine architectural works which are typical of attractive ,original identity and made by ancient people.
Trang An Landscape Complex
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An Landscape Complex is a breathtaking natural and cultural wonder in Ninh Binh. This scenic area spans three protected zones: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An, and Tam Coc-Bich Dong, along with the pristine Hoa Lu forest.
Trang An is the most popular attraction in Ninh Binh, featuring a network of stunning limestone caves along the Sao Khe River, surrounded by majestic karst mountains. This picturesque setting makes it a highlight of any Ninh Binh one day tour.
- Entrance Fee: 250,000 VND
- Tour Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours by boat
Ticket Purchase: Available only at the official ticket counter at the entrance
The boat tour is led by experienced local rowers, offering visitors a unique and serene experience as they glide through the crystal-clear waters, passing through mystical caves and lush landscapes.
Mua Cave Viewpoint – The Best panoramic view in Ninh Binh
Mua Cave is one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Ninh Binh. After climbing 500 stone steps, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc and the Ngo Dong River. While the small temple at the summit may not be the highlight, the view alone makes the climb well worth the effort.
- Entrance Fee: 100,000 VND
- Exploration Time: Approximately 2 hours
A visit to Mua Cave is the perfect addition to your Ninh Binh one day tour, offering a thrilling hike and an unforgettable perspective of the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Bai Dinh pagoda
Bai Dinh pagoda is less challenging than Mua Cave . But it still is a good choice. The largest temple in Southeast Asia will immerse you in Buddhist culture and understand how this religion affects Vietnamese.
Built in 2003 and finally completed in 2010 with traditional Vietnamese design along with special materials from selected local craft villages for the interior.
Cuc Phuong national park
Cuc Phuong is the oldest national park with well-preserved tropical rain forest. Located 45 km from Ninh Binh, this Botanical Garden is the best place for cycling, hiking and observing wildlife and plants.
Another thing that will surprise you, is a wonderful setting created by many colorful butterflies. Welcome to one of Mother Nature’s living places.
Thung Nham bird garden
- Entrance fee ticket: 150,000VND per person
- Electric Car: 40.000VND per person
Thung Nam Bird Garden belongs to Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, one of tourist attraction representing culture, spirit, diverse ecology and stunning views.
Besides being given the chance to admire the landscape of the wetland, tourists can explore wild lifestyle of nearly 40 different types of birds, around 50 thousand birds.
Van Long nature reserve
- Entrance fee ticket: 150,000VND per person
Van Long Nature Reserve area belongs to Ninh Binh province and is located around 80 kilometers from Hanoi city, which is also an extrememly interesting spot for one-day trip. If you are planning to travel to this beautiful place, our below experience and instructions for fully exploring Van Long should not be misse
Phat Diem stone cathedral
The church, usually called Phat Diem Stone Church, is a religious Catholic complex with the area of 22 hectares; it is located in Phat Diem town, Kim Son Commune, Ninh Binh province. It is assessed to be one of the most wonderful churches in Vietnam by the press, considered to be the “religious city” of Vietnam
Other tourist destinations: Nang valley, Am Tiem cave Ma Tien cave, Dong Chuong lake, Non Nuoc mountain, Kenh Ga hot spring ..
Have a look at itinerary for Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi
Ninh Binh has many destinations, and you should spend 3-4 days for these places to explore. Perhaps not everyone will have time to go to all these places. Here are some suggestions for Ninh Binh 1 Day Tour.
Temple of King Dinh Le – Nham valley – Thien Ha cave
- 5h30 or 6h: Depart by Private car from hanoi to ninh binh. Tourist will have breakfast and start the Ninh Binh tour in 1 day by going to Hoa Lu ancient capital to visit King Dinh-Le temple (Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district) to burn incense and pray for peace.
- 9h: Departure to Nham Valley- bird garden (Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district), it is about more than 10km from King Dinh-Le temple. Normally, when you want to reach Nham Valley, you usually go through Tam Coc-Bich Dong Street about 4km, then cross Nang Valley and continue by motorbike (car) or boat (if you go in the direction of Temple Cave in Tam Coc-Bich Dong ).
After coming to Nham Valley(Thung Nham), you can watching a lot of birds such as: stork, cauldron, le le, common teal, magpies, starling … After having satisfied your eyes, you can go ashore and visit gardens, primeval forests, love valleys, thousand- years- old banyan tree…
Or you can continue taking a boat to explore other caves of Nham Valley ecological community.
Afternoon Activities
- 12h: You come to Nham Hill to rest and have lunch. There are many popular specialties for you to choose, such as meat, chicken, fish, bitter bamboo shoots, forest vegetables …All traditional folk cuisines processed from ingredients from gardens and nearby rivers and canals. They are fresh and tasty.
- 13h: After lunch and rest, you start to return to the parking to come to Thien Ha cave – The strong walls protect Hoa Lu ancient capital in the 10th century.
- 15h30: After leaving Thien Ha cave you start moving forward to Dong Chuong Lake. This is a fairly pristine tourist destination and in the process of exploitation, so it is very quiet and suitable for you to rest and relax after walking a long day to discover Thien Ha cave.
Here, you can take a boat around the lake, go fishing, or visit these entertainment areas, sports area or go to house on stilts to rest, have a light before come back to Hanoi.
- 16h30 or 17h you will go far from Ninh Binh and return to Hanoi, that is the end of the programme 1 day tour in Ninh Binh.
Hoa Lu Tam Coc Mua cave day tour from Hanoi
With this schedule, you will visit 3 famous destinations: Hoa Lu ancient capital, Tam Coc Cave and Mua Cave
- Morning: Depart around 8:00 am from Hanoi. Tour guide will pick you up at your hotel in the center of Hanoi Old Quarter. It takes about 2 hours by car. The first destination is Hoa Lu ancient capital – A place that preserves many thousand-year-old historical imprints of King Dinh – Le dynasties. The time appointed for visiting this place is about 45 ’- 60′
Then move to the restaurant to rest and have lunch. You will have the opportunity to admire the majestic high mountains, romantic rice fields, peaceful scenery of the countryside on the way to the restaurant. If you’re lucky, you may come across flocks of buffaloes, cows or goats grazing on the hillsides or along the road.
Afternoon Activities
- Afternoon: After finishing lunch. You will move to Tam Coc boat station to begin the trip on boat to explore tam Coc.I believe it was an exciting experience to enjoy the majestic and poetic scenery of the river and mountain ….
- Before you are on boat, you should bring food and drinking, do not buy water from the sellers on other boats, they will overcharge you . After finishing the journey, you should tip the rower about 2usd to express your gratitude to them, they also contribute to the success of your trip.
Next, you will return to home to get a bicycle and prepare for a cycling journey on the rice fields and the peaceful village here.
After that, you will move to Mua cave where you will have a lot of beautiful photos, will have a panoramic view of tam coc and Ngo river. To reach the top you must climb 500 steps. If you’re an exercise -loving person, it’s an easy hiking trip.
At the end of the climb, you will be back to your car and prepare to return to Hanoi.
Hoa Lu Trang An Mua cave tour from Hanoi
In common with the schedule of Hoa Lu Tam Coc Mua Cave. In this proc
- Morning: Visit Hoa Lu ancient capital and have lunch
- Afernoon: You ess, you will also visit 3 destinations: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cavewill get a chance to visit An Giang landscape, experience 3 hours on a boat, discover the wild and majestic beauty of Trang An. You will come to visit King Kong film studio – one of the places that makes the name of the American movie: Kong – Skull island to get beautiful pictures and unique experiences.
Then, you will have the possibility to explore peaceful villages, mountains, fields through cycling. At the end of the journey, you can climb to the top of Mua Cave and return to Hanoi.
Trang An Bai Dinh Mua cave day trip from Hanoi
For those who are passionate about exploring the history, culture, architecture, this schedule is the right choice.
- Morning: You will visit Bai Dinh pagoda – the largest temple in Southeast Asia, designed boldly Buddhist culture of the Asians. To visit the entire campus of the temple, you will have to move up by tram.
Afternoon activities
After finishing the tour, you will keep moving to the restaurant for lunch.
Start visiting Trang An by boat for about 3 hours and visit the Kong king’s studio
Then continue visiting by bike lasting about 45 ‘
- At the end of the journey, you will have the opportunity to visit Mua Cave – a panoramic view of the rice fields along Ngo river. You will have to overcome 500 steps to get to the top.
There are many options for one day trip to Ninh Binh. Because we have more than one attractions, you need to make sure that which attractions really make an impression on you.
You can look for some help from a travel agent, advice from experts is very helpful in this situation, given you more information for you from high rated agency.
What is included in a day trip to Ninh Binh tour from Hanoi ?
The best way to explore Ninh Binh in a day is to reserve a one-day package tour with transfer from Hanoi. The tour is led by a professional local guide, and a shuttle bus will take you to different tourist attractions in Ninh Binh, allowing you to save time and comfortably take in the stunning beauty of Ninh Binh.
- Limousine bus to pick up and drop off passengers at hotels in the Hanoi Old Quarter area
- Entrance tickets to tourist attractions such as Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave depending on the itinerary you choose.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with delicious famous Vietnamese dishes
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Bamboo boat to visit caves and enjoy river views (at Trang An, Tam Coc…)
- Cycling in the countryside to local villages and meeting some local people
- Drinks and personal expenses are not included.
Best Activities for Your Ninh Binh One Day Tour
A Ninh Binh One Day Tour offers a variety of exciting activities, but since one day isn’t enough to see everything, choosing the right itinerary is essential. Here are some must-try experiences, along with recommended attractions, routes, and tips to make the most of your trip.
Bamboo Boat Tour – Explore Caves & Scenic Rivers
One of the most unique experiences in a Ninh Binh One Day Tour is taking a bamboo boat ride along the serene rivers, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains.
- Tam Coc: Pass through three mesmerizing caves and admire golden rice fields along the Ngo Dong River.
- Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: Explore multiple caves and ancient temples on a breathtaking boat journey.
- Thien Ha Cave: Discover the “Galaxy Cave,” famous for its sparkling stalactites.
- Van Long Nature Reserve: A peaceful wetland perfect for nature lovers.
Thung Nham Bird Garden: Spot rare bird species in a lush natural setting.
A boat trip in Ninh Binh typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a peaceful yet adventurous experience.
Cycling Through the Countryside
Biking is a fantastic way to explore the Ninh Binh countryside, passing rice fields, lotus ponds, and traditional villages. Here are the best cycling routes:
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Tam Coc
- Tam Coc – Bich Dong Pagoda
- Van Long Lagoon Route
- Tam Coc – Hang Mua Route
This is a great way to immerse yourself in the local landscape while capturing stunning photos.
Visit Temples & Pagodas
Ninh Binh is home to many historical and spiritual sites, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts. Popular stops include:
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, holding multiple records in Southeast Asia.
These temples and pagodas are scattered across Ninh Binh’s famous landscapes, offering a spiritual journey combined with scenic beauty.
Kayaking in Trang An
For adventure lovers, kayaking in Trang An is a must-try. Paddle along the Sao Khe River, get close to towering limestone formations, and navigate through spectacular caves.
Note: Kayaking requires good physical fitness, as the journey can be long and demanding.
Conquer Ngoa Long Peak ( Mua Cave)
If you love hiking, don’t miss Ngoa Long Peak at Hang Mua Cave. Climb 500 stone steps to reach the summit and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Ninh Binh. This spot is famous for its stunning sunrise and sunset photography.
Experience Local Farm Life in Trang An
Farm tours have become a popular part of Ninh Binh One Day Tours, allowing visitors to experience traditional Vietnamese farming life. You can learn how to plant rice, harvest crops, and discover the peaceful beauty of rural Vietnam.
Helicopter Tour – A Bird’s Eye View of Trang An
For a luxury experience, take a helicopter tour over Trang An. This tour, available since 2020, offers a panoramic view of Ninh Binh’s majestic landscapes from above. The tour is operated using modern Bell 505 helicopters, ensuring a safe and thrilling ride.
Ninh Binh Travel Costs – Plan Your Own Trip
If you prefer a self-guided trip instead of a package tour, here’s a breakdown of estimated costs for food, transportation, and accommodation in Ninh Binh.
Food Costs
Ninh Binh is famous for goat meat and other local specialties. A meal typically costs 150,000 – 300,000 VND. Restaurants are available in the city and near attractions like Tam Coc, Trang An, Hang Mua, and Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Transportation Costs
- Hanoi – Ninh Binh bus/limousine: 100,000 – 300,000 VND/one way
- Bicycle rental: 50,000 VND/day
- Motorbike rental: 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day
Accommodation Costs
A wide range of homestays, hotels, and luxury resorts are available in Ninh Binh city and near tourist attractions.
- Hostels: From 250,000 VND/night
- Budget hotels: From 450,000 VND/night
- 4-star & 5-star resorts: From 1,500,000 VND/night
Essential Tips for Your Ninh Binh One Day Tour
Planning a Ninh Binh One Day Tour? Here are some must-know tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable!
Bring Enough Cash
There are no ATMs near Trang An Complex, and going back to Ninh Binh City just to withdraw money can be inconvenient. Be sure to carry enough cash for food, entrance tickets, and other expenses.
Stay Calm While Driving
If you’re renting a motorbike, don’t worry about the frequent honking. In Vietnam, drivers honk to signal their presence, not because you’re doing something wrong. Stay calm and enjoy the ride.
Try Ninh Binh’s Famous Dishes
No Ninh Binh One Day Tour is complete without tasting its local specialties:
- Goat Meat: A signature dish of Ninh Binh, sourced from limestone mountains and cooked with lemon leaves, ginger, chili, and other spices.
- Burnt Rice (Com Chay): A crispy, golden rice dish served with a unique savory sauce, offering a crunchy yet flavorful experience.
Be Flexible When Sharing a Private Car
If you’re sharing a private car, agree on a central meeting point before starting your trip. This will help avoid unnecessary delays caused by multiple pickups at different hotels.
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is stunning year-round, but here’s a seasonal breakdown:
- May – October: Hot and humid, with lush green rice fields at their peak beauty. However, September may bring occasional typhoons.
- November – April: Cooler and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
No matter the season, a Ninh Binh One Day Tour offers breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Need more travel tips? Contact Hanoi Explore Travel Team—we’re happy to help!