Ninh Binh one day tour is a must-do for any trip to Vietnam. Whether it’s your first time visiting Vietnam or your second time, here’s everything you need to know to spend a day in Ninh Binh on the beaten path but also off the beaten path.
How to get to Ninh Binh?
Halong Bay on land is located in Ninh Binh province. It is possible to get to this province by bus, limousine bus, private car or taxi from Hanoi. It only takes 2h30 to get to the small village of Tam Coc.
Many tour operators offer this excursion from Hanoi, so it is very easy to join a Ninh Binh one day group tour. We recommend a Ninh Binh one day tour with a private guide because Ninh Binh is a very touristic destination. A guide can take you to less touristy corners and you can visit the must-see destinations when the crowds are less.
The price of the bus between Hanoi and Ninh Binh varies depending on the company and the type of bus. In general:
– Standard bus: Prices start around 200,000 VND (around 8 USD).
– VIP bus or limousine: These options are more comfortable and cost around 400,000 VND (around 15 USD).
The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Expect to pay around 40 USD for a transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by private car. You can book online, at the bus station, or through our travel agency: Jacky Vietnam Travel.
If you have visited Halong Bay just before, it is quite possible to take a bus from Halong Port to Ninh Binh. Ninh Binh is about a 4-hour drive from Halong Port. Buses leave every hour. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
A day in Ninh Binh: What to see?
Hoa Lu the ancient capital
For this Ninh Binh one day tour, Hoa Lu is a journey into the past at the heart of Vietnamese history! Nestled in the splendid province of Ninh Binh, this ancient capital was the seat of two of the country’s first dynasties, the Dinh and Le dynasties, between 968 and 1010. Imagine centuries-old temples surrounded by karst mountains, rice fields as far as the eye can see, and an atmosphere full of mystery…
As soon as you arrive, let yourself be carried away by the majesty of these temples dedicated to the two famous emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh. Carved wooden decorations, imposing statues and a spiritual atmosphere… you can feel the grandeur and wisdom of the ancient leaders. You can almost hear the whisper of legends between the walls.
Explore what remains of the ramparts and gates of the ancient capital, scattered in the heart of nature. These remains tell the story of a Vietnam that, more than 1,000 years ago, was fighting for its independence. Hoa Lu, surrounded by mountains like a natural fortress, was a strategic location, and it is not difficult to understand why the emperors chose it as their capital.
In 968, Dinh Bo Linh, who would become Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang, unified the country and made Hoa Lu the first capital of independent Vietnam. Later, his successor, Le Dai Hanh, also reigned there before the capital was transferred to Thang Long (present-day Hanoi). Hoa Lu is therefore the cradle of Vietnamese identity!
The Dragon Mountain
Dragon Mountain, or *Hang Múa* in Vietnamese, is one of those places where you think: “it was worth every minute of the climb!” Located just outside Tam Coc, this spectacular mountain rewards you after a bit of effort with an absolutely breathtaking view of the lush rice fields and karst peaks of Ninh Binh. Imagine yourself at the top, with a majestic dragon statue looming over you, and a panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see… A must-see in the region!
Be prepared for a climb of about 500 steps, carved into the stone, that wind up to the top. It is a steep climb, but the path is well maintained and lined with dragon sculptures, reminding you of the legend that inhabits these places. Each step brings you closer to the unforgettable view that awaits you at the top. Don’t forget your water bottle and comfortable shoes!
Once you reach the top, the most striking feature is the carved stone dragon. This powerful symbol seems to float above the mountains, like the guardian of the valley. The statue stands in a sinuous manner, adding a mystical touch to this already impressive setting.
Once you reach the top, open your eyes wide: you are facing one of the most beautiful views in Vietnam. Below, the rice fields unfold in a patchwork of green and gold, and the river meanders between the cliffs, with the small boats of Tam Coc gliding on the water. It is the ideal place for unforgettable photos and moments of contemplation.
Hang Múa is just a stone’s throw from Tam Coc, so after your climb, why not extend the adventure with a boat trip on the Ngo Dong River? Or, go and discover the temples and pagodas hidden around the karst mountains.
The Hang Múa dragon has a story: according to legend, this dragon was the protector of the region and took refuge at the top of the mountain to watch over the valley. Its statue represents this protective force, and it is also for this reason that the locals venerate this place as sacred.
The mountain is about 5km from Tam Coc, and it is easy to get there by bike, motorbike, or taxi from Ninh Binh. To park your bike, many people will wait for you at the entrance to watch your bike for a small fee. Expect to pay between 5,000 and 10,000VND to keep your bike safe. Ask for the price before parking your motorbike or bike to avoid any scams.
Boat trip in Ninh Binh
A boat trip when you do a Ninh Binh one day tour is a must. It is sometimes difficult to choose the best site for a beautiful walk. Know that all the sites are very beautiful but each pier has its specificities.
Van Long Pier
Van Long is a real little corner of paradise for nature lovers! Often nicknamed the “waveless bay,” this nature reserve is a haven of peace and biodiversity, located not far from Ninh Binh. Imagine yourself silently gliding in a boat on calm waters like a mirror, surrounded by karst mountains and lush vegetation. Van Long is the perfect place to observe rare birds and, if you are lucky, see the famous Delacour’s langur, an endemic and endangered monkey.
Van Long is surrounded by local tales and legends. The name “Van Long” is said to come from the time when the mountains were inhabited by dragons, symbols of power and protection. These dragons are said to have left imprints in the cliffs, forming the steep reliefs that we see today.
When to go? The best time to visit Van Long is from November to April, when the climate is cooler and drier.
Access: Van Long is located about 20 km from Ninh Binh, and the journey is easy by car, motorbike or even by bicycle for the more adventurous.
Van Long is an unknown pearl, an intimate and magical experience, ideal for those looking for pure contact with nature and a moment of absolute serenity.
Tam Coc Pier
Tam Coc Pier is the starting point for one of the most emblematic experiences of Ninh Binh: a boat ride through the heart of karst landscapes and green rice fields. Located in Van Lam village, this pier allows you to explore the “Halong Bay on land”, with its majestic rock formations and mysterious caves. It is a peaceful adventure, punctuated by the paddles of the rowers and the reflections of nature in the water.
The boat trip lasts about 1h30 to 2 hours, during which you will pass through three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba. These caves, naturally dug into the rock by the Ngo Dong River, offer narrow and mysterious passages, where you will sometimes pass so close to the water that you can touch the surface.
Best season: The ideal period is from April to June, during the season of green and golden rice fields.
How to get there? Tam Coc is easily accessible from Ninh Binh by motorbike, bicycle, or taxi.
Trang An Pier
Trang An Pier is the gateway to explore one of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural landscapes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located a few kilometers from Ninh Binh, this pier takes you to a series of winding rivers, mystical caves, and karst mountains, all in a calm and captivating atmosphere. Unlike Tam Coc, Trang An’s route is longer and offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and historical sites.
From the pier, three routes are offered, each with different stops and unique landscapes. The walks last between 2 and 3 hours and take you through natural caves, ancient temples, and shrines hidden in the mountains. Among the caves, you will pass through the long Toi Cave, the luminous Sang Cave, and many others, all offering spectacular light shows.
Along the way, you will stop at historic temples and pagodas that blend into nature. Trinh Temple, for example, or Tran Pagoda, are spiritual stops where you can learn about the religious and cultural history of the region. These sacred places add a cultural dimension to the natural landscape of Trang An.
Recommended season: The dry season, from November to April, is perfect for pleasant walks under clear skies, but Trang An is beautiful all year round.
Access: Trang An is about 7 km from Ninh Binh and can be reached by motorbike, bicycle, or taxi.
Thung Nham Pier
Thung Nham Pier, located in Ninh Binh Bird Valley, is the ideal starting point for an adventure in the heart of nature, between forests, mysterious caves and colonies of rare birds. Thung Nham, sometimes called “Bird Valley”, is a magical place to observe wildlife, including thousands of birds that come to rest there in the late afternoon. This enchanting site, less frequented than Tam Coc and Trang An, offers a moment of calm and authenticity for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.
By boarding a boat at the pier, you will cross calm waters, bordered by lush vegetation and karst mountains. The walk will take you to But Cave, an impressive natural cave decorated with stalactites and stalagmites, which, according to legend, grants the wishes of those who pass through it. A peaceful passage where the beauty of nature is omnipresent
Thung Nham is famous for its large bird colony, which includes storks, herons, swifts and many other species. At the end of the day, hundreds of birds return to their nests, creating an impressive and unique spectacle. It is the ideal place for nature and photography enthusiasts, especially at dusk, when the sky is filled with moving wings.
Best time to visit: In the morning to enjoy the calm of the valley, or in the late afternoon to observe the birds as they return to rest.
Access: Thung Nham is about 12 km from Ninh Binh and can be reached by car, motorbike or bicycle for the more adventurous.
Pagodas in Ninh Binh
Bich Dong Pagoda
Bich Dong, often called “the most beautiful cave in Vietnam,” is a hidden gem in the heart of the Ninh Binh region. This complex of pagodas and natural caves, built into the mountainside, embodies all the serenity and spiritual beauty of traditional Vietnamese architecture, perfectly integrated into an exceptional karst landscape. Bich Dong means “jade cave,” and this place lives up to its name: between mountains, rice fields and ancient pagodas, the place seems to come straight out of a painting.
Upon arrival, you are greeted by a series of pagodas built in steps on the mountain: the Ha Pagoda (lower pagoda), the Trung Pagoda (middle pagoda) and the Thuong Pagoda (upper pagoda). Each of them seems more mystical than the last, offering unique views of the valley below. These pagodas are architectural marvels, made of wood and stone, and perfectly in harmony with nature.
Following the stone stairs, you will arrive at the Bich Dong cave itself. This natural cave is a sacred place, bathed in freshness and silence. Visitors discover Buddhist statues surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, in an almost unreal atmosphere. The cave, dimly lit and mysterious, invites contemplation and meditation.
From the heights of Bich Dong, the view is absolutely spectacular. The karst mountains that surround the region, the green rice fields, and the Ngo Dong River that meanders through the landscapes create a breathtaking panorama. This enchanting setting is a perfect place for photographers, but also for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Vietnam.
Just in front of the entrance to Bich Dong, a picturesque footbridge leads you to a small stone bridge, surrounded by water lilies and lotuses in summer. It is a place that breathes calm and poetry, perfect for a photo or simply to savor the moment.
Access: Bich Dong is about 2 km from Tam Coc and can be easily reached by bike, motorbike or taxi from Ninh Binh.
Dress code: As this is a religious site, it is preferable to wear respectful clothing (covered shoulders and legs).
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda is a contemporary architectural feat and the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. Located a few kilometers from Ninh Binh, this modern pagoda, inaugurated in 2010, was designed to attract pilgrims from all over the world and to pay homage to Vietnamese Buddhist history. Despite its modernity, Bai Dinh is inspired by traditional Vietnamese architecture and fits perfectly into the karst hills and natural landscapes of the region, creating an atmosphere that is both grandiose and calming.
This 13-story stupa is one of the focal points of the complex. From its height of 100 meters, it offers an incredible panoramic view of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Each floor is decorated with statues and frescoes inspired by the life of the Buddha, and the ascent, although assisted by an elevator, remains a spiritual and contemplative moment.
One of the most impressive features of the complex is the giant bronze Buddha statue, which stands 10 metres tall and weighs over 100 tonnes. It is housed in a huge prayer hall and depicts a peaceful Buddha in meditation. It is one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Southeast Asia, and inspires a sense of calm and wonder.
Lining the pathways of the complex are 500 Arhat statues, each about 2 metres tall, representing the Buddha’s disciples. Each of these statues is unique, carved in a style that captures distinct expressions and postures, reflecting the various faces of wisdom and meditation.
The pagoda also houses a huge bronze bell, weighing 36 tonnes and measuring about 5 metres tall. Located in the bell tower, it is an important symbol of the call to contemplation and meditation for pilgrims and visitors.
At the heart of Bai Dinh is a sanctuary where dozens of statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are lined up in rooms decorated with gilding and incense burners. The design of this space is intended to convey peace and encourage meditation.
Best time to go: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the place.
Access: Located about 15 km from Ninh Binh, Bai Dinh is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi.
Where to sleep in Ninh Binh?
If you look on the map, you will surely find the city of Ninh Binh. However, you should definitely not sleep in this city, it would be missing out on the beauty of the terrestrial Halong Bay. After spending a day in Ninh Binh, the ideal is to sleep in Tam Coc.
Even if most people only spend a day in Ninh Binh, we recommend spending at least one night in Tam Coc before hitting the road again.
You will find many hotels and bungalows in this corner of nature, here are the two hotels/bungalows that we have selected:
Tam Coc Wonderland
Clean bungalow with swimming pool, the quality of service is there. In a family atmosphere, the owners listen to their guests.
Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow
A beautiful location in the middle of the rice fields and a restaurant located in a cave, it is a real experience. The owners are very friendly and the service is impeccable. There is also a swimming pool to relax in the middle of the rice fields.
Join us for an unforgettable Ninh Binh one day tour, where you’ll explore breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Discover the stunning caves of Tam Coc or Trang An on a traditional boat ride, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, and marvel at the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda. With expert local guides and personalized service, Jacky Vietnam Travel ensures you have a memorable and seamless experience. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Vietnam! Book your Ninh Binh one day tour today!