Top 25 Best Things to do in Ninh Binh & Activities for First-Time Visitors
Ninh Binh, often called the “Ha Long Bay on land”, is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and diverse destinations. With its stunning limestone karsts, serene rivers, ancient temples, and rich history, Ninh Binh offers plenty of attractions and activities that will make your visit unforgettable. Whether you are an adventure seeker, nature lover, or history enthusiast, there are endless things to do in Ninh Binh that will captivate your senses.
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Trang An Landscape Complex – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its natural beauty, spiritual temples, and scenic boat tours.
- Location: Trang An, Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
- Things to Do: Take a boat tour through Trang An’s mystical caves, lush valleys, and ancient temples. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
- Why Visit: Known as one of the top Ninh Binh attractions, Trang An Landscape Complex is also a film location for Kong: Skull Island.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a serene experience, avoiding crowds.
- Opening hours: Sun – Sat 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Not sure when to go? See the Best time to visit Ninh Binh to plan your boat trip in the ideal season.
Entrance Fee:
- Adults: 250,000 VND/person.
- Children from 1 to 1.3 meters tall: 120,000 VND/person.
- Children under 1 meter tall: Free of charge
Experience the enchanting boat tour, featuring stunning limestone mountains, rivers, and caves. The Trang An Grottoes, with their lush forests and serene waters, create a magical atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Don’t miss this unique adventure!
Bai Dinh Pagoda – The Largest Buddhist Complex in Vietnam
- Address: Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM every day
- Things to Do: Explore the vast grounds of Bai Dinh Pagoda, which features a giant bronze Buddha statue, hundreds of smaller statues, and incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
- Why Visit: Bai Dinh is one of the most iconic Ninh Binh attractions and a spiritual site for many.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the sunset and cooler temperatures.
Entrance Fee:
- Bai Dinh Pagoda entrance fee: free
- Electric car ride: 80,000 VND/Pax/Round Trip.
- Visit Bao Thap Tower: 50,000 VND/person.
- Parking: 40,000 VND/car and 15,000 VND/motorbike.
Bai Dinh Pagoda, part of the Trang An Ecotourism Complex, showcases stunning architecture and deep spiritual significance. Recognized for its monumental design, it holds numerous records in Southeast Asia. This sacred site is a unique gem in Vietnam, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Learn more about what to expect and how to get there in our
>>> Discover Bai Dinh Pagoda and Beauty of Mua Cave: Deluxe Bai Dinh Trang An Mua Cave Small Group – Limousine Transfer
Tam Coc – Ha Long Bay on Land
- Address: Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh Province
- Opening hour: 7 a.m to 5 p.m
- Boat Ticket price: 250.000 VND per person; 100.000 VND for children.
- Things to Do: Take a traditional sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, weaving through limestone caves and lush rice fields.
- Why Visit: Tam Coc’s natural beauty makes it one of the top things to do in Ninh Binh, especially during the harvest season when the rice fields are golden.
- Best Time to Visit: May to June during the harvest season for the iconic rice paddies.
Tam Coc, covering 150 square kilometers, features stunning routes like Tam Coc – Bich Dong and Thai Vi temple – Xuyen Thuy Dong. Visitors can explore three beautiful caves—Ca, Hai, and Ba—formed by the Ngo Dong River. Known as the “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc offers breathtaking landscapes and unique cave formations.
Want to explore more about this iconic spot? Read our full guide:
>>> Explore Deluxe Hoa Lu Tam Coc Mua Cave Small Group – Limousine Transfer to try the most attractive activities in Ninh Binh
Mua Cave – A Panoramic View of Ninh Binh
- Address: Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Things to Do: Climb 500 stone steps to reach the top of Mua Cave and enjoy panoramic views of Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside.
- Why Visit: This is considered the best viewpoint in Ninh Binh and offers stunning photo opportunities.
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for the most beautiful views.
- Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat.
Entrance Fee Tickets:
- Ticket to visit: 100,000 VND
- Parking motorbike: 10,000 VND
- Parking bike: 5,000 VND
Visiting Mua Cave in Ninh Binh offers an exciting challenge as you climb 486 stone steps to the summit. From the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Tam Coc area, featuring lush green rice fields. Known as the “Muse of Tam Coc” or the “Great Wall of Vietnam,” Mua Cave provides stunning vistas of mountains and shimmering fields, making it a must-visit destination.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Discover Vietnam’s First Capital
- Location: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 20,000 VND
- Things to Do: Explore the ancient temples of Hoa Lu, the site of Vietnam’s first capital during the 10th century.
- Why Visit: Hoa Lu is an important historical site and one of the must-see Ninh Binh attractions for history buffs.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Discover the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Vietnam’s first capital from the 10th century. Spanning 14 square kilometers, this site features intricate architecture and exquisite carvings. As you explore, immerse yourself in captivating stories of the past and witness magnificent relics that have stood the test of time, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
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Cuc Phuong National Park – A Haven for Nature Lovers
- Address in Ninh Binh: Nho Quan district
- Opening Hours: From 06.00am – 05.30pm
- Things to Do: Hike through Vietnam’s first national park, home to ancient trees, wildlife, and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center.
- Why Visit: Cuc Phuong is perfect for eco-tourism and wildlife spotting, making it a unique thing to do in Ninh Binh.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler, dry weather.
Entrance Fee Tickets:
- The entrance fee to the park is 50.000 VND/Person
- Visit The Endangered Primate Rescue Centre: 60.000 VND/Person
Cuc Phuong National Park, located in Nho Quan District, Ninh Binh, is a premier ecotourism destination. Home to rare wildlife such as bears, wild boars, and leopards, as well as unique plant species like Parashorea stellata, it boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem. The park is also a sanctuary for countless birds and butterflies, making it a perfect spot for photography, especially in early summer. The ideal time to visit is from December to April, when you can enjoy activities like camping, biking, and trekking amidst stunning natural beauty.
For the best routes and what to pack by season, read our
🔗 Ninh Binh Travel Tips
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve – Peaceful and Scenic
- Address: Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province
- Opening time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Things to Do: Take a boat trip through the calm waters of Van Long, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the landscape.
- Why Visit: Van Long is an underrated gem and one of the best Ninh Binh attractions for nature lovers.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful and quiet experience.
- Entrance Fee Tickets: Admission fee: 50,000 VND/person, Boat ride fee: 150,000 VND/boat/2 people.
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, located in Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh, is a serene waterlogged reserve famous for its stunning views and unique biodiversity. Known as “The Bay without Waves,” it offers peaceful boat rides and picturesque landscapes. Explore rare species, caves like Bong, Rua, and Chanh, and limestone mountains with distinctive shapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Bich Dong Pagoda – A Hidden Spiritual Retreat
- Address: Ngu Nhac Son mountain range, in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province.
- Opening Hours: 07.00am – 06.00pm
- Things to Do: Visit this beautiful three-tiered pagoda, nestled against a limestone cliff, and take in the serene atmosphere.
- Why Visit: It offers a peaceful, spiritual retreat and is one of Ninh Binh’s hidden attractions.
- Best Time to Visit: Any time during the day, though early mornings are the most peaceful.
- Entrance Fee: Free
Bich Dong Pagoda, located in the Trang An Heritage complex in Ninh Binh, is a breathtaking spiritual site. Known as the “Second Cave of the South,” this three-tiered pagoda rises from Ngu Nhac Son mountain, surrounded by lush greenery and limestone cliffs, just 2 km from Tam Coc. Offering a serene atmosphere with caves, mountains, and nature, it’s the perfect destination for peace and reflection.
Thung Nham Bird Park
- Address: Hai Nham hamlet, Ninh Hai commune, Tam Coc area, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province.
- Opening Hours: From 06.30am – 06.00pm
- Entrance Fee ticket: Adult: 150,000 VND; Children: 100,000 VND; Children under 1m: free.
Thung Nham Bird Park, located in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush tropical forests and limestone mountains, the park offers diverse landscapes, including accommodations, restaurants, and recreational areas. Visitors can explore the park by boat, navigating through stunning cliffs and caves, or opt for a scenic drive to Bird Valley. Experience the beauty of Thung Nham Bird Park and immerse yourself in its vibrant wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Want a peaceful nature-focused stay? Check
Kenh Ga Floating Village – An Authentic Village Experience
- Address: Gia Thinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province
- Opening hours: 24/24h daily
- Best time to visit: June – September
- Entrance fee: Free. The entrance fee for an experience in Kenh Ga Hot Spring is 90,000 VND.
- Things to Do: Explore the unique floating village on the Hoang Long River, where the locals live on boats and floating houses.
- Why Visit: Kenh Ga offers a unique look into local life and is one of the most authentic things to do in Ninh Binh.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning for the most vibrant scene of village life.
Kenh Ga Floating Village offers a unique glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life, where fishing and farming shape the community. Like Van Long Nature Reserve, it experiences annual flooding, and locals paddle boats with their feet. Visitors can enjoy scenic motorboat tours, passing limestone mountains, villages, and farms. The village is also famous for its therapeutic hot springs—perfect for a relaxing mineral bath.
Tuyet Tinh Coc – Am Tien Cave
- Address: Hoa Lu Citadel Complex, Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh
- Opening hours: 07.00 AM – 06.00 PM
- Entrance fee ticket: 50,000 VND/Person
- Things to Do: Visit the cave complex, where you can explore natural caves, waterfalls, and a serene lake surrounded by mountains.
- Why Visit: Tuyet Tinh Coc offers a peaceful retreat and is less crowded compared to other Ninh Binh attractions.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer tourists.
Tuyet Tinh Coc ( also known as Am Tien Cave) is a hidden gem in Ninh Binh, known for its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Often compared to a “fairyland,” this secluded site offers a peaceful escape from everyday life, with its lush green landscapes and mysterious, cinematic charm. Visit Tuyet Tinh Coc to experience its enchanting and otherworldly ambiance.
Dich Long pagoda & cave complex
- Address: Gia Thanh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
- Entrance fee: Free
The Dich Long cave and pagoda complex, situated in Gia Thanh commune, Gia Vien district, Ninh Binh province, comprises pagodas perched on the magnificent Gia Vien mountains. According to legend, this relic, located in a wild, dense mountain forest, was found in 1739 by a woodcutter.
Dich Long Pagoda was named “Nam Thien De Tam Dong” by King Minh Mang, which means it is the third most beautiful cave in the country. It is ranked behind the most beautiful cave, Huong Tich Pagoda, which King Tu Duc named “Nam Thien De Nhat Dong,” and the second most beautiful pagoda, Bich Dong Pagoda, which Lord Trinh Sam named “Nam Thien De Nhi Dong.”
Thach Bich – Thung Nang
- Address: Dam Khe Village, Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh
Entrance Fee Tickets:
- Entrance fee: 20.000 VNĐ /Adult and 10.000 VNĐ / Children
- Boat Trip: 120.000 VND/Person
Thung Nang is a tourist destination in Ninh Binh that attracts tourists with ripe rice fields or emerald green rivers.
Thung Nang – Thach Bich is separated into two sections: the 3-hectare wide outer Thung Nang and the over-5-hectare wide inner Thung Nang. These areas are connected by a network of caves in the mountain that feature low ceilings and hanging stalactites in a variety of shapes.
Thach Bich – Thung Nang is located in Dam Khe village, Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district. This location is true to its name, Sunshine Valley, since the sun shines everywhere, beaming from all the foliage, branches, and the rustic thatched roofs along the riverbank, down to the bottom of the water, creating a stunning and serene view.
Vietnamese ancient village – Co Vien Lau
- Entrance Fee Ticket: 50.000VND/Person
- Opening Hours: 06.30am – 06.30pm
Located right in the heart of Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism area, Co Vien Lau immediately captivates you with its peaceful scenery with rows of green, straight areca trees on both sides of the road.
Co Vien Lau consists of 20 ancient houses built in 20 different architectural styles unique to each region, with many valuable antiques inside. In a quiet setting of the evening, you also can hear Ninh Binh’s artists singing folk songs, ancient “Cheo” melodies, “ca tru” songs dating back to 200 years ago.
Thien Ha Cave – Galaxy Grottoes
- Address: Quang Lac village, Nho Quan district, Ninh Binh province
- Opening hours: 7 a.m to 6 p.m
- Boat ticket price: 120,000 VND/adult; 60,000 VND/child.
Thien Ha Galaxy Cave is a beautiful cave located in Trang An eco-tourism area. Like its name, the cave features many stalactites during its process of formation with the sparkling and enchanting beauty likened to “galaxy within the mountain”.
The boat trip to Thien Ha Cave starts at Tho Ha, a peaceful small village. Sailing along the small canal of Ben Dang River for about 1 kilometer, you will see a 500-meter long stone path leading into the cave entrance.
The entire trip will be led by an experienced guide. Therefore, you can completely immerse yourself in a stunning, enchanted area filled with stalactites of all shapes. It will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience for you.
Hoa Lu Ancient Town
- Address: In the complex of Ky Lan Mountain – Silver Pagoda, No. 1 Tran Hung Dao, Tan Thanh Ward, Ninh Binh City.
- Opening hours: 7 a.m – 11 p.m
- Traditional stalls: 2 p.m – 11 p.m
- Folk games: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m
Entrance Tickets:
- Sightseeing boat ticket (Maximum 5 people): 100,000 VND/adult, 80,000 VND/child (1-meter – 1.3 meter tall).
- VIP boat ticket (with roof): 150,000 VND/adult (Maximum 9 people), 100,000 VND/child (1-meter – 1.3 meter tall).
Situated within the Ky Lan Mountain complex, Hoa Lu Ancient Town was constructed with the idea of Dai Viet traditional culture, which dates back to the tenth century. It can be said that the purpose of building Hoa Lu Ancient Town is to preserve and showcase the beauty of architecture and culture at that time. Coming here, you will enjoy yourself greatly playing, discovering, and touring traditional Vietnamese craft villages.
Phat Diem Stone Cathedral
- Address: Phat Diem Town, Kim Son District, Ninh Binh Province
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Dress Code: Polite apparel is required
Located in Phat Diem town, Kim Son district, Ninh Binh province, Phat Diem Stone Cathedral is a long-standing building whose architecture is a perfect combination between Buddhism and Catholicism.
Phat Diem Stone Cathedral is roughly 28 kilometers from Ninh Binh City. It spans an area of 22 hectares, measuring 117 meters in width, 243 meters in length and consists of a large church with 5 small churches. There is a church known as a stone church that is made completely of natural stone. The three-storey Phuong Dinh (bell tower) is designed in a square shape, which is 21 meters wide and 25 meters high. Ponds and three artificial stone caves are also present.
With the age of over 130 years old, Phat Diem Stone Cathedral is a well-known Catholic structure in Ninh Binh with distinctive architecture. Many decades after its construction, this place still retains its impressive beauty blending Asian and European design elements and attracts a large number of tourists to visit each year.
Discover the exciting activities in Ninh Binh
Hike Mua Cave – Conquer the Spectacular Viewpoint
- Address: Khe Dau Ha village, Hoa Lu district
- Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Ticket price: 100,000 VND
Climb 486 steps to reach the top of Mua Cave, standing on the top of Dragon Mountain, visitors will admire the most majestic scenery of the land Ninh Binh. Particularly, if you visit in May and June, you may take in the stunning rice field scene from above.
Boat Tour in Tam Coc – A Must-Do Activity
Take a 2-hour boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing caves, rice fields, and limestone mountains. Watch locals row with their feet, a unique skill passed down for generations.
Take a boat trip in Trang An
- Address: Trang An eco-tourism area
- Opening hours: 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Boat ticket price: 250,000 VND/adult
Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning limestone karsts and tranquil boat tours through caves and lush landscapes—one of the top things to do in Ninh Binh.
👉 Read more: Trang An Boat Tour – A Spectacular Boat Ride Must Do in Ninh Binh
Cycle Through Villages and Rice Fields
The best place in Ninh Binh for bike tours is the Tam Coc – Bich Dong area. Visitors can experience a fresh open space free of traffic jams and throngs of people jostling each other like on the city streets, which brings a great chance to take in the picturesque countryside scenery with gorgeous rice fields interspersed between serene small villages and limestone mountains.
Relax at Kenh Ga Hot Springs
- Address: Gia Thinh village, Gia Vien district
- Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Entrance fee: 15,000 VND
Unwind in the therapeutic waters of Kenh Ga Hot Springs, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. It’s a perfect way to relax after a long day of exploration.
Enjoy Local Beer by the River
Ninh Binh’s riverbanks are dotted with cozy beer gardens, offering a refreshing drink in scenic settings—ideal for unwinding after a day of adventures.
Visit Rong Market – Taste Local Snacks
Rong Market is a food lover’s paradise. Sample local delicacies like Ninh Binh cassava cakes, Tilapia noodle soup, and more, while shopping for souvenirs.
Explore Traditional Craft Villages
Learn about Ninh Binh’s rich heritage by visiting craft villages, such as Kim Son’s sedge mat makers and the pottery villages in Yen Mo.
Hike to Silver Cloud Peak
- Address: Nho Quan district
- Ticket price: 60,000 VND
Trek to the top of Silver Cloud Peak in Cuc Phuong National Park for panoramic views of lush forests and a unique cloud-covered landscape.
Trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park
- Address: Nho Quan district
- Ticket price: 60,000 VND
Cuc Phuong, Vietnam’s first national park, offers diverse trails for hiking and wildlife watching, making it one of the best activities for nature lovers.
Savor Ninh Binh’s Local Cuisine
Don’t miss the chance to try Ninh Binh’s specialties, including crispy scorched rice, goat meat, and fish salads, each bursting with local flavors.
In conclusion, Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination in Northern Vietnam, offering a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, historical landmarks, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil rivers of Trang An, hiking to the top of Mua Cave, or enjoying the rich flavors of traditional dishes, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Ninh Binh.
Ready to explore? Plan your trip to Ninh Binh today and experience all that this captivating province has to offer. From breathtaking landscapes to unforgettable experiences, your adventure awaits. Reach out to us for personalized recommendations and let’s make your Ninh Binh journey one to remember!
➕ Need help planning your full trip including how to get here, when to go, and what to eat?
📘 Ninh Binh Travel Guide 2025 – Complete Planning Guide
🛣️ How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi
🍲 What to Eat in Ninh Binh – Local Food Guide
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