Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh on a Day Trip from Hanoi [Update 2026]

Looking for the best things to do in Ninh Binh? If you’re planning a day trip from Hanoi, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Most travelers visit Ninh Binh as a quick getaway, but it’s more than just a stop on the map—it’s a must for any Vietnam itinerary.

Ninh Binh dazzles with dramatic limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and serene waterways. Just a short journey from Hanoi’s busy streets, it offers a peaceful escape where you can slow down and truly enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty.

In this guide, I’ll share the top experiences to make the most of your Ninh Binh day trip. You can sail through the tranquil Tam Coc or Trang An rivers, cycle through picturesque countryside, and explore the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. And here’s a tip from experience—if you can extend your stay beyond one day, do it. The charm of Ninh Binh only grows the longer you’re there.

How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi

If you’re wondering how to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you have several options. Based on my experience, the shared limousine is the most comfortable and convenient way to travel.

By Shared Limousine

I recommend booking a shared limousine for your trip. Your hotel can easily arrange it, and you’ll travel with just three or four other passengers. The ride feels incredibly comfortable, with USB chargers and even built-in massage chairs. When I last took it, I paid around $7 USD, and the journey took about 2.5 hours. Picking up and dropping off the other passengers didn’t take long at all.

The best part? The shuttle picks you up directly from your Hanoi hotel and drops you off right at your accommodation in Ninh Binh. It’s both time-saving and cost-effective.

By Train

If you prefer a different experience, you can take the Hanoi to Ninh Binh train. The journey covers about 95 km and takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes. Tickets are easy to purchase online or at the station.

By Taxi

For more flexibility, you can hire a private taxi. I recommend downloading the Grab app, Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber. A Grab ride costs around 1.1 million VND (about $44 USD). Standard taxis usually cost more—closer to $100 USD. Keep in mind, Grab is harder to find in rural areas, so you might need to arrange a private driver instead.

Book an Organized Tour from Hanoi

If you’re short on time and want a stress-free experience, consider booking an organized day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. You’ll visit the top attractions without worrying about transportation or planning, making it ideal for a quick getaway.

• Check out Vietnam tours

How to Get Around Ninh Binh

Once you arrive in Ninh Binh, the best way to explore is by cycling. Many hotels even offer free bicycles as part of your stay, making it easy and budget-friendly. Riding a bike through the stunning Ninh Binh countryside feels peaceful and incredibly scenic.

However, I mostly relied on Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) to get around. It’s quick, convenient, and affordable. For example, a 20-minute ride cost me about 185,000 VND (around $7.50 USD). This price is cheaper than a regular taxi, which your hotel can arrange but usually at a higher cost.

If you feel comfortable riding on your own, you can also rent a motorbike. The roads in Ninh Binh are mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want more freedom.

How Long Should You Stay in Ninh Binh?

Many travelers visit Ninh Binh as a day trip from Hanoi. While that works for a quick look, it often feels rushed since the drive takes about 2.5 hours each way—meaning you’ll spend around 12 hours in total.

I recommend staying at least one or two nights. This extra time allows you to explore at a relaxed pace, capture beautiful photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Personally, I stayed for three nights so I could spend my last day simply relaxing at my hotel. I found Ninh Binh much more affordable than Hanoi, so extending my stay also helped me save on accommodation costs.

Where to Stay in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Choosing the right place to stay in Ninh Binh can make your trip even more memorable. I’ve personally explored and researched the area to find the best options for every travel style. Here are five great places to consider:

1. Tam Coc Garden Resort

If you want a peaceful escape surrounded by rice fields and limestone mountains, Tam Coc Garden Resort offers just that. I loved waking up to the sound of birds and stepping outside to panoramic views. The rooms feel rustic yet luxurious, and the infinity pool quickly became my favorite afternoon spot.

2. Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort

This hotel strikes the perfect balance between comfort and convenience. Located close to Tam Coc, it gave me easy access to boat rides and cycling paths. The breakfast spread included fresh tropical fruits, Vietnamese coffee, and warm pastries—a great way to start the day before exploring.

3. Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow

For a cozy, homestay-style experience, I recommend Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow. The hosts greeted me like family and helped me plan my sightseeing route. Each bungalow had a charming porch where I could relax with a cold drink after biking through the countryside.

4. The Vancouver Hotel Ninh Binh

If you prefer staying in the city center, The Vancouver Hotel offers modern rooms and warm hospitality. I appreciated the spotless rooms, fast Wi-Fi, and the staff’s detailed advice on where to find the best local food. From here, it was easy to arrange day trips to both Tam Coc and Trang An.

5. Chez Beo Homestay

Chez Beo Homestay gives you a true countryside experience. I stayed in a lakeside bungalow with lotus flowers just outside my window. In the evenings, I enjoyed sipping tea while watching the sunset over the water. It felt like a world away from the bustle of Hanoi.

Tours map of Ninh Binh

Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh

1. Climb the 500 Steps at Mua Cave

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Ninh Binh is climbing to the top of Mua Cave for breathtaking views. If you can match your visit with good weather, the scenery becomes even more magical. The best time to visit Mua Cave often depends on the season and the time of day. Personally, I visited in March at sunrise, but thick fog covered the entire view. Even though the forecast promised sunshine, I stood surrounded by mist. Surprisingly, the fog later created a moody, almost mystical vibe in my photos, which I ended up loving.

If you want the most vibrant lighting, try visiting at sunset. While I initially hesitated because of potential crowds, I now think I could have still captured incredible shots. The sunset glow against the limestone peaks is worth braving a few extra visitors.

How Much is Entrance to Mua Cave?

The entrance fee is 100,000 VND (about $4). After paying, you’ll walk a short distance along a marked pathway before the climb begins. The hike to the top took me around 20 minutes at a relaxed pace. The 500 steps are wide and steep in some sections, so expect a moderate challenge. Coming down took me less than 15 minutes.

What Awaits at the Top?

Near the summit, you can choose to go left or right. Turning left leads you to the famous stone dragon and sweeping views of the valley. Some travelers carefully walk along the dragon’s back, but I decided not to—it looked a little risky since the surface isn’t flat. Turning right takes you to a picturesque stone tower, where I sat to take in the views and snap a few personal favorite photos.

Whether you face fog, clear skies, sunrise, or sunset, Mua Cave always delivers a unique and memorable experience. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and take your time—the journey up is just as rewarding as the view from the top.

2. Ride a Motorbike Through the Countryside, Starting from Hanoi

Exploring Ninh Binh on a motorbike feels like pure freedom. I started my journey from Hanoi, riding through small villages, lush rice fields, and winding rural roads. With every turn, the scenery became more captivating—towering limestone karsts on one side, peaceful waterways on the other. The best part? I could stop whenever I wanted, whether to snap a photo, grab a coffee at a roadside stall, or simply breathe in the fresh countryside air.

Riding a motorbike here isn’t just transportation—it’s an experience that connects you to the land and the people. Locals often waved as I passed, and I even ended up chatting with a farmer who invited me to see his rice field. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just looking for a slow-paced journey, the countryside around Ninh Binh rewards you with endless views and unforgettable moments.

Tip: If you’re not confident about riding from Hanoi, you can take a train or bus to Ninh Binh City and rent a motorbike there. Either way, the open road and the dramatic scenery will make this one of the highlights of your trip.

3. Take a Boat Tour through Trang An or Tam Coc

If you visit Ninh Binh, you can’t miss the iconic boat tours. I chose the Trang An boat tour after hearing from several travelers that it offers the most breathtaking views. My hotel staff agreed and recommended it over Tam Coc. If you have time, try both; however, for a one-day trip from Hanoi, I suggest choosing Trang An.

• Check out Ninh Binh and Tam Coc

On my visit, I picked Route 3, and it turned out to be an incredible decision. The journey took me to two ancient temples and guided the boat into a series of fascinating caves. Some were so low that I had to duck to pass through, which made the ride feel like a real adventure. All around, the scenery looked straight out of a postcard—towering limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and lush greenery at every turn.

The ticket cost 250,000 VND (around $10) for a three-hour ride. I arrived, bought my ticket, and hopped on a boat without much waiting. From what I saw, the last tickets sell around 5 PM, but it’s always best to confirm with your hotel before heading out.

4. Enjoy the Scenery at Bich Dong Pagoda

Just a short ride from Tam Coc, the Bich Dong Pagoda welcomes you with peace, history, and stunning views. Built in the 15th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Thai To, its name translates to “Green Pearl Cave.” Visiting in summer feels magical—pink lotus flowers float on the water, adding even more charm to the scene.

I visited in the middle of the day and still managed to capture photos without large crowds. The trick is to wait between the waves of tour buses; patience pays off here. Inside, you can step into the temple itself and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee, so you can take your time wandering and enjoying the surroundings.

5. Enjoy the Night Lights at Pho Co Hoa Lu

When the sun sets, Pho Co Hoa Lu—also known as Hoa Lu Ancient Town—comes alive with lights and lanterns. This historic site served as Vietnam’s capital during the Dinh Dynasty (968–980) and early Le Dynasty (980–1009). Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and lush landscapes, it offers a rich blend of history and beauty.

Walking through the town, I explored ancient temples like the Dinh Tien Hoang Temple and Le Dai Hanh Temple, both dedicated to Vietnam’s founding kings. At night, the streets glow with colorful lanterns, creating an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. You can even take a lantern-lit boat ride along the waterways—an unforgettable way to end your day in Ninh Binh.

With its mix of cultural heritage, scenic views, and vibrant night lights, Hoa Lu is the perfect evening stop after a day of exploring. Trust me, it’s worth staying out a little later to experience it.

Ninh Binh Weather: The Best Time to Visit

Before planning your trip, it helps to know what kind of weather to expect in Ninh Binh. The region enjoys a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, which means each month offers a different experience.

Spring (February–April) feels fresh and vibrant. Rice fields start to turn green, and the temperature stays between 18–25°C (64–77°F). I loved this season because the cooler air made cycling around the countryside comfortable.

Summer (May–August) brings warmer days and lush, bright-green landscapes. However, it’s also the rainy season, so bring a light raincoat. I visited during early June, and the light afternoon showers actually made the air feel

cleaner and the scenery even more photogenic.

Autumn (September–November) is arguably the best time to visit. The weather stays dry, the heat isn’t overwhelming, and the fields glow golden right before harvest. If you love photography, this season offers postcard-perfect shots.

Winter (December–January) is cool, with temperatures between 12–18°C (54–64°F). The skies can be overcast, but I found it peaceful—perfect for travelers who prefer fewer crowds.

• Check out When’s the best and worst time to visit Vietnam

Is Ninh Binh Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Ninh Binh has a unique charm that’s hard to compare with anywhere else in Vietnam. While cities like Hanoi are vibrant and bustling, Ninh Binh feels slow-paced, surrounded by limestone mountains, rivers, and rice paddies that stretch to the horizon.

During my stay, I enjoyed taking boat tours, cycling through peaceful villages, and sipping coffee while watching the sunrise over the karsts. Everything felt authentic, unhurried, and refreshingly different from the busy tourist hubs.

It’s also one of the most affordable destinations in Vietnam. My hotel cost far less than what I paid in Hanoi, and food prices stayed friendly to my budget. The locals I met were warm, welcoming, and genuinely happy to share their culture.

If you love nature, cultural history, and the chance to explore at your own pace, then yes—Ninh Binh is 100% worth visiting.

Ninh Binh vs Halong Bay: Which Should You Choose?

Both Ninh Binh and Halong Bay are stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites, but they offer completely different travel experiences. If you have limited time, your choice depends on what kind of trip you want.

Ninh Binh is often called the “Halong Bay on land” because of its dramatic limestone cliffs and winding rivers. Here, you can explore by boat, bicycle, or motorbike, passing through rice fields and ancient temples. It feels more relaxed and immersive, with fewer crowds—especially if you stay overnight instead of visiting on a day trip.

Halong Bay, on the other hand, offers breathtaking seascapes with thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters. Most travelers explore by taking an overnight cruise, which includes kayaking, cave visits, and sunset views from the deck. The downside? It’s more commercialized, and during peak season, the bay can feel crowded.

If you love peaceful countryside, cultural history, and flexible exploring, choose Ninh Binh. If your dream is to sail through dramatic seascapes and sleep on a boat under the stars, Halong Bay will deliver that once-in-a-lifetime experience. Personally, I recommend doing both if your itinerary allows—it’s the perfect combination of Vietnam’s natural beauty by land and sea.

Suggested Itinerary for Ninh Binh

Day Trip from Hanoi

• Morning: Take an early limousine bus or train.
• Mid-morning: Trang An or Tam Coc boat ride.
• Afternoon: Climb Hang Mua for panoramic views.
• Evening: Return to Hanoi.

2 Days in Ninh Binh

• Day 1: Trang An boat ride, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and countryside cycling.
• Day 2: Tam Coc boat ride, Hang Mua climb, and a relaxed village walk.

Bottom line

Ninh Binh isn’t just a stop on your Vietnam itinerary — it’s where stunning limestone peaks, tranquil rivers, and rich culture meet. Whether you’re rowing through Trang An, climbing Mua Cave, or cycling through rice fields, Ninh Binh will leave you with memories as timeless as its landscapes.

About the Author

Thu is a travel writer based in Vietnam, exploring the country’s landscapes, culture, and hidden gems. With years of first-hand travel experience, she shares practical tips and inspiring guides for travelers seeking authentic adventures.

Citation Readiness

This article is based on first-hand travel in Ninh Binh, supplemented with up-to-date local information and verified tourism sources, ensuring accuracy and reliability for readers and researchers.