Escape the bustling city of Hanoi and immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh on this Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi.
Discover the breathtaking scenery of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, where you can explore the unique Karst scenery of Trang An Grottoes, the peaceful and poetic Bich Dong Pagoda, or take a relaxing Tam Coc boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by lush rice fields.
Learn about the history of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu or challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Mua Cave for a stunning panoramic view. Throughout your journey, witness local villagers going about their daily lives, offering you a glimpse into a quieter slice of Vietnamese culture and lifestyle.
Due to Ninh Binh’s vast size, attempting to do everything in one day would be extremely rushed. Therefore, we have designed two itineraries for you to choose from:
- Itinerary 1: Tam Coc Bich Dong and Mua Cave
- Itinerary 2: Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties – Trang An Grottos and Mua Cave
Wish to have a custom itinerary? Please email us at xinchao@phoebeandbesties.com for more information!
8 Reasons to Book this Experience
- 😍 No hidden cost
- 😍 Tour is 100% customizable
- 😍 Hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Hanoi’s city center
- 😍 Experience unique sampan boat rides on feet by Ninh Binh locals
- 😍 Enjoy one-of-a-kind stunning views in “Halong Bay inland”
- 😍 Take spectacular viral photos and videos
- 😍 Interesting stories from local guides
- 😍 Suitable for all kinds of travelers, especially for families and kids
Know Before You Go
- Duration
10-12 hours
- Area
Ninh Binh
- Type of tour
Private tour
- Transportation
Car, Sampan Boat
- Activites
Boating, Hiking, Caving, Chitchating, Storytelling, Relaxing, Photo taking, Laughing, Food devouring, and so on…
- Starting time
At your convenience. We suggest 7.30 am
Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi Itinerary:
- Our local bestie will be ready at the hotel lobby to pick you up and then depart to Ninh Binh which is 2.5 hrs away.
- Upon arrival, you will take a 1.5-hour sampan boat tour at Tam Coc. This area is often referred to as the “Inland Halong Bay” due to its stunning karst formations. The scenery along the river is breathtaking, with towering limestone mountains, lush rice paddy fields, and tranquil villages. Local rowers will paddle you gently through three magnificent limestone caves then return via the same route.
- The next stop is Bich Dong Pagoda, a 17th-century pagoda nestled near a picturesque lotus pond and leaning against a rocky mountain. We’ll take some time to explore the pagoda, learn about local beliefs, take stunning photos, and then head for lunch, where you can try special Goat Meat dishes from the area.
- Continue to visit Mua Cave, also known as Dancing Cave. As you climb the 500 stone steps, you will be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the countryside and Ngo Dong River. From this vantage point, you can even see all the way to Tam Coc. Please note that the route is the same way up and down, so be prepared for 1000 steps in total!
- This Ninh Binh day trip ends here. Time to relax with a pleasant drive back to Hanoi. Our driver and local besties will take you back to your hotel.
- Our local bestie will be ready at the hotel lobby to pick you up and then depart to Ninh Binh which is 2.5 hrs away.
- Our first stop will be the Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties. Hoa Lu served as Vietnam’s capital during the 10th century. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the royal palaces and ancient temples and hear captivating stories about the royal family and the history of Hoa Lu. This significant chapter of Vietnamese history surely makes your day more interesting.
- Next, you will board a small sampan boat and enjoy a 1.5-hour row on a small river that takes you through many magnificent limestone caves in Trang An Grottoes. The scenery is spectacular as you row between the towering karst formations of this newly recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get your camera ready as you’ll be able to capture numerous beautiful scenes along the way!
- After the row, recharge your energy with a lunch break before your adventure actually begins with a hike to the top of Mua Cave. A breathtaking view of Tam Coc awaits you after climbing the 500 steps! Bear in mind that up and down via the same route, so be prepared for a total of 1000 steps!
- Phew! Challenge accomplished! Relax and be pampered in the air-conditioned car as you head back to your hotel!
Tips for a better trip:
- Bringing bug spray, suncreen, hats, good hiking shoes and cash.
- Using the toilet before you get on the boat since there are no toilet stops along the way.
- Putting on life vests is a must!
Included
- Pick up and drop off at your hotels in Hano
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- Private English-speaking guide
- All entrance and boat tickets in Tam Coc/ Trang An as per the mentioned itinerary
- Water bottles
- Mua Cave visit
Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Your lunch and other beverages
- Tips and gratuities to the driver and guide
- Personal expenses and other things are not mentioned in our tour inclusion
How to Book this Tour?
Email us at xinchao@phoebeandbesties.com or complete this form. We will get back to you within a day with a tailor-made itinerary that suits your tastes.
