Can-Not-Miss Ninh Binh Excursions Tours 2024

With its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil ambiance that captivates the soul, Ninh Binh is a destination that truly deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. From the majestic karst formations and winding rivers to the ancient pagodas and lush national parks, this region offers a diverse range of excursions that will leave you awe-inspired. In this blog, we aim to be your guide to Ninh Binh excursions, providing you with valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to ensure a memorable and fulfilling journey through this wondrous land.

Getting to Ninh Binh

Currently, there are various convenient means of transportation to get you to Ninh Binh, such as airplanes, coaches, trains, and motorcycles. According to the experience of backpackers, it’s advisable to explore Ninh Binh by motorcycle to fully appreciate its beauty. If you arrive in Ninh Binh by train or airplane, you can go to rental points to choose a suitable motorcycle to roam around and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Ninh Binh.

Here are some ticket prices and motorcycle rental rates for your reference:

• Regular coach ticket price: around 80,000 VND per person.
• Limousine ticket price: 180,000 VND per person (with phone charging facilities, and wifi).
• Motorcycle rental price: 100,000 – 130,000 VND per motorcycle.

Best time to visit Ninh Binh

The ancient land of Ninh Binh always holds a unique charm for visitors at different times of the year. Therefore, you can always plan a trip to this place at any time.

Spring: The weather in Ninh Binh from January to March is cool, fresh, with a hint of the lingering cold of early spring. During this time, you will have the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of Ninh Binh while participating in spring festivals.

Summer: From April to June is the “golden time” for traveling to Ninh Binh. Under the blazing summer sun, accompanied by cool breezes, you can freely explore every corner of Ninh Binh, especially capturing unique photos in this land.

Top Ninh Binh Excursions Tours

When it comes to exploring the wonders of Ninh Binh, there are several tour options available that cater to different preferences and time constraints. Here are the top Ninh Binh excursions tours to consider:

Ninh Binh tour 2 days 1 night

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ninh Binh with a comprehensive 2-day, 1-night tour. This tour typically includes visits to iconic attractions such as Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Trang An Landscape Complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Cuc Phuong National Park. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy scenic boat rides, explore ancient pagodas, trek through lush forests, and experience the cultural richness of the region. Accommodation and meals are usually included, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.

Suggested Ninh Binh Tour 2D1N itinerary

Day 1 

6:00 AM: Departure from the capital city of Hanoi. You can fuel up with some breakfast options in Hanoi such as sticky rice, eel vermicelli, beef pho…

6:30 – 10:00 AM: Travel to Trang An and check-in at a hotel or guesthouse to prepare for exploration.

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Explore the “charming fairyland” – Am Tien Cave. Here, you can immerse yourself in countless photo opportunities amidst the majestic mountains and the crystal-clear emerald lake where you can see the lake bottom. The entrance fee is very affordable: 20,000 VND/adult and 10,000 VND/child.

12:00 – 1:30 PM: Lunch break and rest to prepare for the afternoon schedule.

1:30 – 3:00 PM: Visit Van Long Nature Reserve – the largest wetland conservation area in the Red River Delta at the lower reaches of the Day River. On the lush green moss carpet bestowed by nature, thousands of white-cheeked gibbons glide over the water, creating a romantic natural painting before your eyes. You can refer to the following ticket prices:

• Adults: 20,000 VND/person.
• Children under 1m tall: 10,000 VND/person.
• Elderly (60 years old and above): 10,000 VND/person.

3:00 – 5:00 PM: Check-in at Cuc Phuong National Park – honored as the top national park in Asia for three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021. As a nature lover, you will surely be captivated amidst hundreds of ancient trees shading the area, various exotic plants, and the melodious chirping of birds. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy garden.

Ticket prices for Cuc Phuong National Park:

– Adults: 60,000 VND/entry.

•  Students: 20,000 VND/entry.
•  Children: 10,000 VND/entry.
• Children under 5 years old: Free.

5:00 PM: Enjoy Ninh Binh’s specialties and return to the hotel for rest, preparing for the exploration on the next day.

Day 2

8:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda – the largest Buddhist complex in the S-shaped country. Amidst the majestic mountains with over 1000 years of history, Bai Dinh Pagoda is renowned as the foremost spiritual landmark in Ninh Binh. As you climb to the highest section of the pagoda, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes of Ninh Binh. You’ll have the chance to enjoy moments of tranquility and relaxation in this ancient pagoda.

Ticket prices for your reference are: electric car ticket: 60,000 VND/person; tower visit ticket: 50,000 VND/person.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: It’s time to satisfy those hungry stomachs and take a rest.

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Explore Mua Cave, which mimics the shape of the famous Great Wall of China with its 486 steps. From the foot of the mountain, you can clearly see the white stone steps leading to the towering peak. Along the stairs are intricately decorated motifs on the stone depicting dragons or phoenixes carved in the artistic style of the Tran dynasty.

Ticket prices for adults are 100,000 VND/person, and free for children under 10 years old.

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Visit Tam Coc Bich Dong – an irresistible tourist destination when exploring the Trang An scenic complex. This is a unique opportunity for you to leisurely float on calm waters, meandering through golden rice fields along the banks while admiring the majestic limestone mountains. The boat will take you to explore three caves including Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave.

Ticket prices for adults are 120,000 VND/person/ride, and for children (under 1.4m) are 60,000 VND/person/ride.

5:00 PM: Indulge in delicious goat dishes such as grilled goat, stir-fried goat with lemon leaves, goat hotpot, steamed goat, stir-fried goat with lemongrass and chili, goat blood pudding, goat curry. Afterwards, return to Hanoi overnight, concluding the 2-day-1-night Ninh Binh tour here.

Ninh Binh tour 1 day

If you have limited time but still want to experience the highlights of Ninh Binh, a 1-day tour is a perfect choice. This tour offers a condensed version of the 2-day itinerary, allowing you to visit the most iconic sites such as Tam Coc-Bich Dong and Trang An, and perhaps squeeze in a visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda. It’s a great option for travelers who are short on time but don’t want to miss out on Ninh Binh’s beauty.

Itinerary 1: Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc Bich Dong

6:30 AM: Depart from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by car or motorbike, which will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can stop for breakfast in Phu Ly (Ha Nam) or have breakfast upon arrival in Ninh Binh.

8:30 AM: Arrive in Ninh Binh and begin the sightseeing journey at the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Visit the temples of King Dinh – King Le, explore Giap Tru Pagoda, admire the scenery of Truong Yen Valley…

11:00 AM: Explore Mua Cave for mountain climbing and scenic photography opportunities.

12:00 PM: Have lunch at a restaurant and take a rest.

1:30 PM: Continue to Tam Coc – Bich Dong boat dock. Take a boat to explore the caves, visit the temples of Saint Tran and Thai Vi honoring the kings and lords. Then return to the dock.

4:30 PM: Conclude the tour and begin the journey back.

Itinerary 2: Ninh Binh – Bai Dinh – Trang An

6:30 AM: Depart for Ninh Binh.

8:30 AM: Arrive at Bai Dinh Pagoda to begin the one-day tour of Ninh Binh. Pay homage to the Buddha at the Tam The Hall. Explore the Arhat corridor, the largest bell tower in Southeast Asia, and the 11m-high statue of Maitreya Buddha…

12:30 PM: Have a vegetarian lunch at the pagoda or go to a restaurant and take a rest.

1:30 PM: Transfer to the boat dock at the Trang An tourist area. You can take a boat to visit various caves such as Sang Cave, Dark Cave,… and marvel at the impressive natural scenery. Visit the Cao Son Shrine.

4:30 PM: Conclude the tour and begin the journey back.

Ninh Binh self-guided tour

For those who prefer a more independent and flexible experience, a self-guided tour in Ninh Binh is a fantastic option. With a detailed map and recommendations, you can explore the attractions at your own pace. Renting a bicycle or scooter is a popular choice for self-guided tours, allowing you to navigate the scenic roads and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. This option gives you the freedom to customize your itinerary and spend more time in the places that interest you the most.

Armed with your mode of transportation, you can embark on a personalized adventure through Ninh Binh. Start by visiting Tam Coc-Bich Dong, a mesmerizing landscape of limestone karsts and winding rivers. Rent a boat and row yourself along the gentle waterways, passing through caves and marveling at the stunning natural scenery. The serenity and tranquility of this experience are truly captivating.

As you continue your self-guided tour, make sure to explore the Trang An Landscape Complex, another must-visit destination in Ninh Binh. Hop on a boat tour that takes you through a network of rivers, caves, and temples. Witness the grandeur of the limestone formations and allow the peaceful atmosphere to envelop you. The boat tour guides will share fascinating insights and stories about the area, adding depth to your journey.

For a taste of Ninh Binh’s cultural heritage, consider visiting the ancient temples and pagodas scattered throughout the region. Bich Dong Pagoda, located within the Tam Coc area, is a hidden gem worth discovering. This complex of Buddhist shrines is nestled amidst a stunning natural backdrop, offering a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

Throughout your self-guided tour, take the opportunity to stop by local villages and interact with the friendly residents. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and witness the daily lives of the people in Ninh Binh. Indulge in the delectable local cuisine, savoring dishes such as goat meat, rice-based specialties, and freshwater delicacies.

Ninh Binh boat tour

No visit to Ninh Binh would be complete without experiencing a boat tour along the winding rivers and through the mesmerizing caves. These boat tours are one of the quintessential experiences in the region, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Tam Coc and Trang An are two popular destinations for boat tours in Ninh Binh. Tam Coc, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” offers a scenic landscape of limestone karsts emerging from emerald-green paddy fields. Hop aboard a small rowing boat skillfully operated by local rowers, who use their feet to paddle. As you glide along the river, you’ll pass through three limestone caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The serenity and tranquility of this journey are truly enchanting, with the natural beauty unfolding at every turn.

Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another stunning location for a boat tour in Ninh Binh. Embark on a guided boat ride that takes you through a vast network of rivers, caves, and temples. Marvel at the majestic limestone formations towering above you as you navigate the waterways. The boat tour guides will share interesting insights about the area’s history, geology, and cultural significance, enhancing your appreciation of the surroundings.

>>> Read More: Where Should I Go First? Tam Coc or Trang An

Ninh Binh half day tour

If your time is limited or you prefer a shorter excursion, a half-day tour in Ninh Binh is a convenient choice. These tours typically focus on one or two key attractions, allowing you to get a taste of Ninh Binh’s beauty without committing to a full-day itinerary. It’s an ideal option for those visiting Ninh Binh as a day trip from nearby cities like Hanoi.

For instance, a half-day tour may include a visit to the Tam Coc-Bich Dong area, where you can experience a boat tour through the scenic landscapes and explore the Bich Dong Pagoda. Alternatively, you might opt for a tour of the Trang An Landscape Complex, where you’ll have the opportunity to take a boat ride through the captivating waterways and explore the ancient temples and caves.

While a half-day tour may not allow for a comprehensive exploration of all that Ninh Binh has to offer, it provides a glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural wonders. It’s a great option for those who are short on time but still want to experience the essence of Ninh Binh’s beauty.

Other Tourist Destinations of Ninh Binh

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

For many tourists eager to learn about history and traditional festivals, the complex of relics at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is the best choice. You’ll be amazed by the architectural structures of the citadel walls, the high-value royal citadels of the relics of the Hung kings and the Le kings here. The entrance fee for your reference is 20,000 VND per person.

Thung Nham Bird Garden

Upon arrival here, you’ll witness the sight of white storks soaring across the sky, the shimmering stalactites inside the Heaven’s Gate Cave, and enjoy the sensation of gliding through the But Cave along with many other exciting experiences in this vast 334-hectare bird garden. The entrance fee for your reference is 150,000 VND per person, and for children from 0.8 to 1.3 meters tall, it is 100,000 VND per person.

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece over 100 years old. With its unique combination of Eastern and Western architectural styles using stone and wood materials, it creates a distinctiveness found only here. With its vast compound and harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western architecture, Phat Diem Stone Cathedral has become an ideal backdrop in every frame. When visiting Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, tourists are granted free entry.

Some Notes for Memorable Ninh Binh Excursions

To make the most of your Ninh Binh excursions, it’s essential to consider some points listed below:

• Avoid carrying valuables as there are many tourists, increasing the risk of theft or loss while moving around the attractions.
• Check the map beforehand for a more convenient exploration journey.
• Due to the rugged terrain of the majestic mountains and the somewhat remote areas of the attractions, it’s advisable to limit solo travel to ensure your safety.
• When boating and exploring caves, strictly follow the guide’s instructions and wear a life jacket.
• Bring a power bank to keep your phone and camera fully charged for capturing moments throughout the day.

Conclusion

Whether you seek tranquility amidst nature, spiritual enlightenment, or a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam, Ninh Binh excursions have something to offer for every traveler. From the surreal boat rides through limestone caves to the peaceful hikes in national parks, Ninh Binh promises a journey that will awaken your senses and leave an indelible mark on your heart. 

Ninh Binh Excursions Tours FAQs

When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season, which generally runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. The months of March and April are particularly beautiful as the rice fields turn a vibrant shade of green. However, Ninh Binh can be visited year-round, and each season offers its own distinct charm.

How long should I spend in Ninh Binh?

The duration of your stay in Ninh Binh depends on your interests and the activities you wish to undertake. A minimum of one full day is recommended to explore the main attractions such as Tam Coc, Trang An, or Bai Dinh Pagoda. However, to fully experience the beauty and tranquility of Ninh Binh, it is recommended to spend at least two to three days in the region. This allows you to visit additional destinations like Cuc Phuong National Park or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and explore the area at a relaxed pace.

Can I explore Ninh Binh on my own?

Yes, you can explore Ninh Binh on your own. Renting a bicycle or scooter is a popular choice for independent travelers, as it allows you to navigate scenic roads and discover hidden gems at your own pace. With a detailed map and recommendations, you can customize your itinerary and visit the attractions that interest you the most. However, if you prefer a guided experience, there are also organized tours available that provide transportation, guides, and pre-planned itineraries.