1. An Overview of Choosing Sapa or Ninh Binh
Sapa or Ninh Binh are both famous tourist attractions located in the North of Vietnam. However, Sapa is located in the upper northern mountains from Hanoi, close to the country’s border with China. If you prefer the clean mountainous air, trekking through wild forests, and meeting with ethnic minority groups, Sapa is for you. On the other hand, Ninh Binh lies in the opposite direction – the southern delta of Hanoi, close to the Central region of Vietnam. Ninh Binh stands out with beautiful waters, limestone caves, and diverse wildlife, perfect for anyone who prefers a slower pace on the boat. Nevertheless, whether you choose Sapa or Ninh Binh, you will definitely not be disappointed. 2. Sapa or Ninh Binh: A Complete Comparison
Location & Transportation
Ninh Binh is only 95km from Hanoi, often taking up to about a 2-hour drive or a train ride. Or, if you want to travel like a local, you can rent a bike at around 5$ per day and get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by yourself! It is perfect for a day trip or a 2D1N escape from the city. On the contrary, getting from Hanoi to Sapa requires more effort, as it is a 340km distance. If you like an adventure, you can try overnight sleeper buses for around 6 hours at around 25$. If you prefer traveling alone, renting a private car or booking a taxi are also great options.Sapa or Ninh Binh: Weather & Best Travel Time
| Ninh Binh | Sapa | |
| Climate | Subtropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. | Cool summers and mild winters. |
| Temperature | Generally, the entire year is warm to hot. Winter (December-February): 20°C (68°F) Spring (March-May): 28°C (82°F) Summer (June-August): 34°C (93°F) Autumn (September-November): 29°C (84°F) | Generally, the weather is cooler than in Ninh Binh. Winter (December-February): 15°C (59°F) Spring (March-May): 22°C (72°F) Summer (June-August): 29°C (84°F) Autumn (September-November): 24°C (75°F) |
| Rainfall | The wet season (May-October) | Even throughout the year, with occasional mist, fog, and snow. |
| The ideal time to visit | March-May and September-November for nice weather and minimal rain. | April-May and September-October for moderate temps and clear skies. December-January if you want to see Sapa snow. |
| Duration of visit (recommended) | 1 – 3 days | 3 – 4 days |
Check out the full guide to Weather in Vietnam here.
Natural Beauty
Sapa or Ninh Binh are both well-known for their landscape and ecotourism, but each has a unique feature of its own. Coming to Sapa, you will witness grandiose mountain ranges like Fansipan (the highest mountain peak of Indochina), Ham Rong Mountain, and Ngu Chi Son Mountain. You can also visit terraced rice fields cascading down the mountainside or have a cable car trip through the wild jungle and waterfalls. Sapa is generally more popular than Ninh Binh, so its natural attractions are more organized and modern.
>>> Read more about Sapa Attractions for more details! Ninh Binh, on the contrary, is a land of water and wildlife. The area is greatly symbolized by its aquatic ecosystem, with more than 600 species of plants and 200 species of animals, many of which are on the Vietnamese red list. Coming to Trang An, tourists can expect to ride on boats and see vast rice fields lying alongside limestone mountains. The peaceful landscapes of Sapa or Ninh Binh make them ideal destinations for nature lovers and photographers. Travelers often find it hard to decide between Sapa or Ninh Binh because both showcase stunning landscapes and authentic local life. So in general, if you’re looking for majestic mountains and ethnic cultures, head to Sapa; if peaceful rivers and ancient temples call to you, Ninh Binh might be your pick>>> Check out our blog on Ninh Binh Attractions for your plan!Cultural Experiences
Sapa or Ninh Binh isn’t just a question of where to go, but how deeply you want to connect with Vietnam’s heritage. Vietnam has 54 different ethnic groups, and a number of them reside in Sapa, making the region’s cultural heritage extremely diverse. 5 of the most populated minority groups in Sapa are the Hmong, the Red Dao, the Tay, the Giay, and the Xa Pho, each with distinct traditions. Coming to this land, tourists will have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture and help the people in remote areas. If you are lucky, Sapa also has lots of unique festivals and community activities you can participate in.
>>> Explore more about the Diversity of Ethnic Minorities in Vietnam here!On the other hand, Ninh Binh is famous for Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was once the first capital city of Vietnam a thousand years ago, before Hanoi. Therefore, traveling to Ninh Binh is a historical adventure. Here, tourists can visit the ancient palace, pagodas, temples, and a lot more heritage that are well preserved. Keep in mind that choosing Sapa or Ninh Binh would still give you a satisfying cultural trip, just from different angles.Outdoor Activities
Sapa is a great spot for people who prefer wild adventures, especially trekking through the beautiful mountains and rice fields. You can jump on a motorbike for an authentic experience and go “cloud hunting” on the highest mountain peaks early in the day. If you like riding boats, Sapa also has a number of waterfalls and rivers, from Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall to Muong Hoa River, that you can dive into. The most popular outdoor activity in Ninh Binh is kayaking. The region is mostly covered in water, so you can visit almost everywhere on boats or ride your own. For a more unique trip, have a picnic or photography tour at Cuc Phuong National Park or Thung Nham Bird Park. With its diverse ecosystem and poetic landscape, Trang An is a great choice for photographers and families traveling together. >>> If you are interested in a tour focusing just on seeing the natural wonder and wildlife, check out our Ninh Binh Bird Call tour! Tourist Attractions
Already have somewhere you want to visit in mind? Whether you choose Sapa or Ninh Binh, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience of natural beauty and cultural depth. Sapa or Ninh Binh are both must-visit spots in northern Vietnam, so here are some attractions in Sapa for your consideration:- Fansipan Peak: Known as the “Roof of Indochina”, Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam, standing at 3,143 meters. Visitors can either take a cable car for breathtaking views or challenge themselves with a trekking adventure.
- Cat Cat Village: This charming ethnic village offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the H’Mong people. It features traditional wooden houses, terraced fields, and a scenic waterfall, making it a perfect cultural and nature escape.
- Muong Hoa Valley: A picturesque valley famous for its stunning rice terraces and ancient rock carvings. The valley is home to various ethnic minority groups, providing a rich cultural experience along with breathtaking landscapes.
- Cloud Dragon Glass Bridge: This glass-bottom bridge offers a thrilling experience with panoramic views of the mountains and deep valleys below. Standing at 2,200 meters above sea level, it is one of the best spots for capturing mesmerizing photos.
- Haven’s Gate Sapa: Located at the top of O Quy Ho Pass, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the misty mountains and winding roads. It’s a must-visit spot for those who love scenic landscapes and fresh mountain air.
- Trang An Landscape Complex: A UNESCO-listed site famous for its majestic limestone karsts, winding rivers, and hidden caves. Visitors can take a boat ride through the waterways to explore the stunning scenery and historical temples.
- Mua Cave (under Lying Dragon Mountain): After climbing nearly 500 stone steps, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic view of Tam Coc’s breathtaking rice fields and limestone peaks. It’s one of the best viewpoints in Ninh Binh, perfect for photography lovers.
- Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s oldest national park, home to rich biodiversity, ancient trees, and rare wildlife. It’s an ideal destination for trekking, birdwatching, and learning about conservation efforts.
- Bich Dong Pagoda: A beautiful 15th-century pagoda nestled within a limestone mountain. Visitors can explore its three levels, each offering a peaceful spiritual atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Once the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries, this historical site features well-preserved temples and relics. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past and ancient architecture.
3. Travel Tips: Whether You Choose Sapa or Ninh Binh
No matter what you choose, Sapa or Ninh Binh, there are certain travel tips you should keep in mind while visiting these top 2 attractions of northern Vietnam:- Protect your belongings: Keep your bags (preferably backpacks or manny packs) zipped and close to your body. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive accessories.
- Consider your children: Sapa is near the border, where human trafficking can happen. Avoid traveling alone and always let others know where you are. If you have children, you should always keep an eye on them.
- Avoid scams: Scams can happen at crowded tourist attractions. If any strangers give you anything and ask for money, say “No” and walk away. When you buy anything, always ask for the price first and try to negotiate if you can.