Ninh Binh, also known as Ha Long Bay on land, is a hidden gem located just around 2 hours drive from Hanoi. If you have limited time, but still want to explore nature, then Ninh Binh is just a good choice. Ninh Binh offers many exciting activities and it’s also home to many tourist attractions. Known for its stunning limestone karsts, vibrant rice paddies, and rich cultural heritage, Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for those with limited time but a desire to experience both nature and history. Let’s go into the details of what to do for your Ninh Binh Day Trip.
Transportation Options
Most travelers start their Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi. To go to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, there are several transportation options to choose from:
- Train: Going by train is a popular choice among locals. The average travel time of around 2 hours from Hanoi train station. If you have car sick, this would be the most convenient option. The average ticket costs around 80,000vnd from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Once you arrive at Ninh Binh train station, you can catch a taxi to your next place.
- Car: Traveling by car is probably the most convenient option, especially if you stay in the Old Quarter. A car ride to Ninh Binh takes on average 1 hour and 25 minutes. The limousine usually costs 300,000vnd from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. However, they don’t pick up customers directly from the hotel so you will need to get a taxi to the pickup place.
- Motorbike: For adventurous souls craving speed, the fastest option by motorbike takes only 2 hours and 17 minutes. However, it’s essential to be familiar with the route and comfortable navigating Vietnam’s traffic.
Top 4 Ninh Binh Day Trip Options
There are many tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. So, it’s basically impossible to visit all the places in one day. Therefore, if you are on a single Ning Binh day trip, you have to choose what you want to see based on your preference. Take a look at the 4 suggested itineraries below if you are planning your day trip.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave Tour
This itinerary is perfect for those who want to combine history and nature on their Ninh Binh Day Trip. With this itinerary, you can explore nature and at the same time, visit the ancient capital to learn about the Old Capital of Vietnam.In the morning, you can explore Vietnam’s ancient capital, Hoa Lu, and admire its historical temples. Then you will cruise along the Tam Coc River. In the afternoon, you can climb up to Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic views of the region.
Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, and Mua Cave Tour
This is an excellent choice for travelers who wish to delve deeper into Vietnam’s spiritual heritage on their Ninh Binh Day Trip. This itinerary allows you to have enough time to visit the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda complex, one of the largest in Vietnam. You can then explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An by boat in the afternoon. In the late afternoon, you will hike up to Mua Cave for mesmerizing views of the countryside.
Cuc Phuong National Park Tour
A tour of Cuc Phuong National Park is perfect for those who want to explore nature. A Ninh Binh Day Trip to Cuc Phuong National Park allows you to immerse yourself in the flora and fauna of one of Vietnam’s oldest national parks.If you visit during the right season, you will see more than 400 types of butterflies in different colors. The butterfly season starts from late April to the end of May. You can imagine millions of wings flying in flocks across the road leading into the national park. The ticket price to visit the garden is around 60,000 VND for adults and 10,000 VND for children (grades 1 to 11).
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, Tuyet Tinh Coc, and Hoa Lu Tour
If you prefer a quieter and less touristy experience, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of tranquility and history on your Ninh Binh Day Trip. Start with a peaceful boat ride through the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, often referred to as the “natural version of a water painting.” This serene reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including rare langurs. Then move to the next spot, Tuyet Tinh Coc cave, this place is not well-known among foreign tourists, but it’s really famous among locals. After that, you will visit Hoa Lu, the last attraction before having dinner at local restaurants.
Exploring Ninh Binh’s Culinary Delights
No Ninh Binh Day Trip is complete without tasting the region’s delicious local cuisine. In addition to its natural beauty and historical sites, Ninh Binh is also renowned for its delicious local cuisine. Some must-try specialties include Oc nui (Mountain Snails), and Com chay (Ninh Binh Rice Crust). If you stay longer, you can try finding Yen Mac Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Chua Yen Mac) or Braised Fish with Gao Fruit (Ca kho qua gao). These two dishes are not very well-known, but it’s worth a try.Many probably have never heard of mountain snails, but this is one of the must-try dishes when you are in Ninh Binh alongside goat meat. Ninh Binh is home to many famous goat meat dishes such as “Thit de chay toi” (Goat meat stir-fried with garlic), and “De Tai Chanh” (Boiled Goat Meat with Lemon Juice).
Additional Tips for Your Ninh Binh Day Trip
- Dress Appropriately: As many attractions are temples or pagodas, modest clothing is essential. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike up to Mua Cave.
- Bring Cash: While there are ATMs in Ninh Binh, it’s advisable to carry cash, particularly if you’re visiting smaller local establishments or markets
Conclusion
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Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi promises unforgettable moments. Ninh Binh is a special place where you can enjoy tranquil natural beauty in combination with cultural heritage. I’m sure you are in for a good time no matter what itinerary you choose to take.If you’re ready to plan your Ninh Binh Day Trip, contact us to book a
Ninh Binh tour if you need more information about this lovely place. We’ll help you create the perfect adventure, tailored to your interests and travel style!
No Ninh Binh Day Trip is complete without tasting the region’s delicious local cuisine. In addition to its natural beauty and historical sites, Ninh Binh is also renowned for its delicious local cuisine. Some must-try specialties include Oc nui (Mountain Snails), and Com chay (Ninh Binh Rice Crust). If you stay longer, you can try finding Yen Mac Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Chua Yen Mac) or Braised Fish with Gao Fruit (Ca kho qua gao). These two dishes are not very well-known, but it’s worth a try.Many probably have never heard of mountain snails, but this is one of the must-try dishes when you are in Ninh Binh alongside goat meat. Ninh Binh is home to many famous goat meat dishes such as “Thit de chay toi” (Goat meat stir-fried with garlic), and “De Tai Chanh” (Boiled Goat Meat with Lemon Juice).