2025 Ninh Binh Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

#100usdchallenge There’s something magical about sleeping outside, with the sounds of nature all around you and not a single screen in sight. I found a free camping spot near a forest reserve and set up my little tent. Cooked some noodles, read a book, and watched the sky change colors until the stars took over. No hotel check-ins, no tour guides — just pure connection with the land. Plus, it cost me almost nothing. Nature provides everything when you keep it simple. #NatureOnABudget

#100usdchallenge You don’t need five-star hotels to have a five-star experience. I strapped on a backpack, downloaded a few offline maps, and hit the trails. Some national parks only charge a few bucks or are completely free — all you need is a good pair of shoes and the will to walk. My days were filled with waterfalls, wildlife, and sunrises from mountain peaks, while my nights were spent camping or in cheap local homestays. If you love hiking, this is the way to travel rich without spending much. #NatureOnABudget

Tucked away in the tranquil countryside of Tam Coc, Thung Nham Bird Park is one of Vietnam’s most peaceful and biodiverse eco-tourism spots. Surrounded by lush forest, limestone cliffs, and calm waterways, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone seeking a break from the usual tourist trail. What Makes Thung Nham Special? Spanning over 300 hectares, Thung Nham is home to more than 40 species of birds, including storks, herons, kingfishers, and even the rare phoenix bird (as locals call it). In the late afternoon, thousands of birds return to the wetlands — a magical sight that feels straight out of a nature documentary. But it’s not just about birds. The park also features caves, gardens, orchards, and peaceful walking trails. It's a great place to spend half a day or more, especially for those who enjoy eco-tourism and wildlife experiences. Highlights of Thung Nham Bird Park Bird Watching at Sunset: The best time to visit is around 4:30–6:00 PM, when birds return to nest — a truly unforgettable scene. Boat Ride Through the Wetlands: Glide through narrow canals lined with greenery while spotting birds and lotus flowers. Explore Natural Caves: Visit But Cave (Buddha Cave) and Vai Gioi Cave, known for their mystical atmosphere and rock formations. Walk or Bike the Trails: Enjoy quiet paths that wind through fruit orchards, bamboo forests, and limestone mountains. Travel Tips Getting There: Located about 5 km from Tam Coc town, Thung Nham is accessible by bicycle, motorbike, or taxi. Many guided tours include it as part of a Ninh Binh day trip. Entry Fee: Approximately 100,000 VND (~$4 USD) for adults; boat rides may cost extra. When to Visit: Dry season (November–April) is ideal for bird watching and exploring the park comfortably. What to Bring: Insect repellent, water, binoculars for birding, and comfortable walking shoes. Final Thoughts Thung Nham Bird Park is more than just a bird sanctuary — it’s a peaceful, immersive experience in one of Vietnam’s most scenic regions. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this eco-park is a perfect escape into nature that’s just a short ride from the center of Tam Coc. #thungnham #birdparkvietnam #tamcoc #ninhbinh #vietnam #hikingvietnam #scenicviewpoints #naturephotography #asiatravel #tripmoments #vetnamwildlife #ecotourism

Nestled in the heart of Ninh Binh Province, Tam Coc is a destination that feels like it’s been lifted from a dream. Often called "Halong Bay on land," Tam Coc offers towering limestone karsts, winding rivers, and golden rice paddies — all set against a backdrop of rural serenity. Why Visit Tam Coc? Tam Coc is a peaceful alternative to more touristy spots, perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural depth. The name Tam Coc means "Three Caves," referring to the grottoes that you’ll pass through on a small rowing boat along the Ngo Dong River. The area combines stunning landscapes with rich local traditions, making it ideal for both photography lovers and cultural explorers. It is also the location where the movie "Kong: Skull Island" was filmed. Top Things to Do in Tam Coc Boat Ride on the Ngo Dong River: Let local rowers (often using their feet!) guide you through dramatic cave tunnels and past limestone cliffs. The views are especially magical during the rice harvest season (May–June). Explore Bich Dong Pagoda: Built into a mountainside, this ancient pagoda offers panoramic views and a peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Cycle Through the Countryside: Rent a bicycle and ride through quiet village roads, lotus ponds, and endless rice fields. Climb Mua Cave Viewpoint: For an unforgettable view of the valley, hike up 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain. Visit Thung Nham Bird Park: a place of great natural beauty and biodiversity. Take a journey through the park's many attractions, from birdwatching and hiking to exploring its ancient caves. Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss dishes like goat meat, crispy rice (com chay), and local river fish.  Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May–June) is ideal for seeing the rice fields at their brightest green or golden yellow. Getting There: Tam Coc is about 2 hours from Hanoi by car or train, with plenty of day trip or overnight options. Where to Stay: Choose from scenic eco-lodges, homestays, or boutique hotels with mountain views. Final Thoughts Tam Coc is a place where time slows down. Whether you’re gliding along the river or biking through misty fields at dawn, the tranquility and beauty of this village will leave a lasting impression. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the quiet soul of Vietnam. #tamcoc #ninhbinh #vietnam #tripmoments #vietnamtravel #naturelovers

If you’re in Hanoi and looking for a quick escape to Vietnam’s natural and cultural gems, a day tour to Ninh Binh is a must-do. I booked a tour package for $115 SGD for two, and it was totally worth it for a full-day experience packed with temples, caves, kayaking, hiking, and amazing views. We got picked up right from our hotel at 7:30am in a comfortable air-conditioned bus, and the whole tour was English-speaking, which made everything super easy to follow. Our guide was friendly and shared interesting stories and history throughout the journey. Our first stop was the Bai Dinh Temple Complex — and wow, it was massive. There are so many pagodas spread out across the complex. It’s said to be built by one of Vietnam’s richest men, and honestly, you can tell — the place is grand and beautifully maintained. One tip though: it gets really hot, so don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat (you’ll thank me later). Next, we headed to Trang An, and this was hands-down my favorite part. It’s such a serene and magical place — limestone mountains, lush greenery, and calm waters. We chose to go kayaking, which was such a fun and peaceful way to explore. You can also do a boat ride if you prefer to relax. After that, we enjoyed a Vietnamese lunch buffet — lots of local dishes, and it was included in the tour price. It was a nice break and a good chance to recharge before our last stop. Finally, we made our way to Mua Cave. This part tested my stamina — the hike is no joke! There are two sides you can climb, but I only managed to conquer one. The steps are steep, and it gets tiring fast, especially after a long day, but the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. You get a panoramic shot of the rice fields and winding rivers — it’s the perfect way to end the tour. Overall, if you want to see more than just Hanoi, this Ninh Binh day tour offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure — English-speaking guide, comfy bus, lunch buffet all included — and all of that for just $115 SGD for two. Perfect for this year summer destination. #summervacay #vietnam #hanoi #ninhbinh

During my 5-night free travel in Hanoi, Vietnam, I went on a 1-night 2-day cruise to Halong Bay, but isn't Halong Bay on land, Ninh Binh, also so attractive?! Since it's a travel destination located about 2 hours away from Hanoi, many travelers visit it for a day trip! It's perfect to enjoy and feel the nature of Vietnam while riding a boat with a boatman rowing it. The Ninh Binh tour that I went on alone was in the order of Bai Dinh Temple-Trang An-Hang Mua. Bai Dinh Temple is a huge temple with a site of over 2 million pyeong. It feels like Halong Bay on land. Trang An, a unique and beautiful natural landscape with over 30 limestone rock mountains and limestone caves that you can't see in Korea. Hang Mua, a towering rock mountain where you can look down on the beautiful view of Ninh Binh from below. I recommend it. #Southeast Asia travel #🇻🇳 #Hanoi

Ninh Binh at night feels like a different world – calm, quiet, and full of charm. The limestone mountains silhouetted under the moonlight and the gentle breeze by the rivers create such a dreamy vibe. I loved wandering through the peaceful streets, trying local snacks, and soaking up the fresh night air. Perfect for night owls who love nature! 🌾🌌 #NinhBinhNight #VietnamVibes #ChillNights Use tips: 👉🏻From Hanoi, take a 2-hour bus or train to Ninh Binh. 👉🏻Book a night boat tour with lanterns at Tam Coc or Trang An. 👉🏻Bring a light jacket as it gets cool in the evening. 👉🏻Perfect for couples or anyone looking for a peaceful escape!

Conquer the Heights at Mua Cave: A Hidden Gem in Ninh Binh! Mua Cave, known for its stunning panoramic views, is a must-visit when in Ninh Binh! Climbing the 500+ steps rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the rice paddies, limestone karsts, and the serene Tam Coc River. Getting There: It’s easily accessible from Ninh Binh city—just a short taxi or motorbike ride (around 10 km) will get you there. Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is 100,000 VND, which includes access to both the cave and the viewpoint. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and beautiful light for photography. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Tam Coc area for a boat tour among the stunning landscapes. Stay in a local homestay to experience the charm of rural Vietnam and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. 🌾✨ #MuaCave #NinhBinh #VietnamAdventures #NatureLovers #TravelVietnam #Wanderlust #ExploreMore #vietnam

2h from Hanoi🚗Live in a small village in Vietnam and find the life you long for This winter, look to visa-friendly Vietnam! In addition to the famous Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can also visit the picturesque Ninh Binh. 🌴 Wander through the ancient city and feel its long history, 🍁 explore the countryside covered by rice fields. If you are a nature lover, don’t forget to experience the cozy rural life and taste the special Vietnamese food. 🍄 Travelers' Choice Award Recommendation: Tam Coc Garden This idyllic 🌾dreamlike hotel, nestled between mountains 🌲 and rice fields 🌾, is far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It not only provides comfortable accommodation, but also allows you to deeply experience the unique charm of the Vietnamese countryside. 🌾🌾🌾 The traditional village architecture, stone houses and tiled roofs are set in a lush garden🌷! It attracts people who appreciate the beauty of nature and hope to gain energy and comfort from it. 🌻🌻🌻 Unlock a different rural 🌾 experience at Tam Coc Garden and have a deep exchange with nature! 🌾🌾🌾 Aboriginal cooking class from the river to the kitchen: Establish a deep connection with this land. Under the guidance of the indigenous people, go to the river to catch shrimps🦐, select organic vegetables in the hotel's private vegetable garden🥬, experience traditional Vietnamese cooking methods and techniques, and taste authentic Vietnamese flavors. 🥂🥂 Picnic on the River: Enjoy a romantic picnic for two on a traditional sampan boat with delicious snacks and enjoy the natural scenery of Tam Coc in the river. 🌴🌴 Traditional Fishing Experience Try to play the role of a Vietnamese farmer and use a traditional bamboo fishing rod by the pond. 🎣 Keep the typical smell of the countryside, earth and straw🌾 in your memory and immerse yourself in the local Vietnamese culture. 🔥Herbal Massage: After a long day, treat your tired feet to a healthy and soothing herbal 🌿foot bath and massage. 🌿🌿 🚙 Arrival: Ninh Binh is more than 100 kilometers away from Hanoi, and it only takes two hours to drive there! Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing and Xiamen can all fly directly to Hanoi.

Ninh Binh is a mesmerizing town known locally as 'Ha Long Bay on Land'. High recommended if you are taking a trip to Hanoi. Getting There - Recommend hiring a driver or booking a day tour to get there from Hanoi. It is about 2 hours drive. Highlights - My favourite memory was kayaking along the stunning waters in Trang An. If you go in the right season, you can see the beautiful golden colour of the paddy fields in Ninh Binh. During the kayaking, you can also see interesting karst and cave formations which makes it even more exciting. Another fun part is cycling through the local village and paddy fields. This allows you to admire the beautiful country side view and serenity. You can even spot cute monkeys there. Of course, if you don't want to kayak, you can take a local boat along the river too. Food & Restaurants - There are many delicious Vietnamese local cuisine that you can enjoy in the area including fresh spring rolls. #kayak #100waysoftravel #vietnamtrip #photolocation

Exploring Ninh Binh by bicycle was a delightful adventure. Pedaling through the scenic countryside, I marveled at the stunning karst landscapes and lush green rice paddies stretching out in every direction. The gentle breeze and the sound of birds made the ride incredibly refreshing. I cycled past serene temples, traditional villages, and tranquil waterways, each turn offering new, picturesque views. Stopping at local markets and interacting with friendly villagers added a cultural touch to the journey. The flexibility of biking allowed me to take my time, fully immersing myself in the natural beauty and charm of Ninh Binh. #summerdestinations

#100WaysOfTravel #temple #nightmarket Ninh binh is a hidden gem near Hanoi city known as the Halong Bay on land! Just 2 hours away. Explore the area for 2-3 nights instead of just doing a day tour or you will miss out on so much! Spend 1 night at this hidden gem at the walking street in Ninh Binh city. You can find food, massage, hair wash and shopping here and the vibes get better later in the night. In the middle of the lake is a few temples great for phototaking. Row boats with lantern are also up for rent if you're up for a romantic experience .

Most guides to Ninh Binh (or the town of Tam Coc) seem to mention the same tips, often based on a day trip or one-night stay. While you can see some of the highlights on a quick trip, I stayed in Ninh Binh for 4 days, letting me get a complete picture. I highly recommend at least 3 days to anyone. Don’t just go for sightseeing, lose your self riding around the green fields. You will love it. #vietnam #ninhbinh #traveling 📍Address:Ninh Binh

Excursion to Ninh Binh is an excellent choice to see unique natural wonders of the north Vietnam. This town is located about 90 kilometers away from Hanoi and you can visit this place by car on your own or take a full day excursion. The area of Tam Coc and Trang An in Ninh Binh are absolute must-visits, which you will observe from the boat and admire the beauty of the mountains and nature. #vietnam #ninhbihn #hanoi #Traveling

Bai Dinh Temple, the largest temple in Southeast Asia, located in Ninh Binh, also known as Ha Long Bay on land! Rather than focusing on the temple, it would be better to focus more on the beautiful scenery! The scenery on the way from the city to the temple is also so beautiful, so don't miss it and take in all the sights!!! Address 7VG8+98, Gia Sinh, Gia Viễn, Ninh Bình Entrance fee 60,000 VND (including admission only) / 220,000 VND (admission + electric car) You must take the electric car! It's so big and hot that it's hardㅠㅠ Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #Vietnam travel #temple #Southeast Asia travel #Ninh Binh

#vietnam Bái Đính Temple, located near the town of Ninh Binh, is a large Buddhist pagoda and temple complex. Bái Đính Temple is the largest spiritual and cultural Buddhist Complex in Vietnam. It’s considered as the Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex. The original ancient Bái Đính Pagoda is a historical site near the Bái Đính Mountain, founded in 1136. The new Bái Đính Complex, completed in 2010, covers an area of about 550 hectares and includes various monuments, shrines, hundreds of statues, etc. Statues: The complex consists of several temples and over 500 intricately carved statues of Buddha, including some giant ones. Festivals: On the sixth day of the Lunar New Year, the temple hosts a vibrant festival during spring, usually from January to March. Visiting Bái Đính Temple offers an opportunity to admire the mesmerizing beauty and peaceful atmosphere of nature. It’s an ideal destination for those interested in exploring Ninh Binh

Although it is a small province, Ninh Binh has a very diverse terrain: mountains, plains, and coastal areas with all the nuances of miniature Vietnam. With three-quarters of the area being hills, diverse karst terrain, rich flora and fauna, many tourist resorts have been formed with beautiful natural landscapes, attracting tourists, famous as: Tam Coc - Bich Cave, Cuc Phuong National Park, Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, Yen Thang Lake Eco-tourism Area, Dong Thai Lake, Thung Nham Bird Garden, Thung Nang, Thien Ha Cave, Kim Son coastal area, hot mineral springs… Especially, Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 2014, the first mixed heritage of Vietnam and Southeast Asia.#ninhbinh #trip #vietnamtravel

🚌 Getting There: A 2-hour bus ride from Hanoi brought me to Ninh Binh. 🪷 Attractions: While Tam Coc Ninh Binh was unexpectedly closed, I discovered the beauty of Hang Mua Ecolodge, complete with a serene lotus garden and a rewarding hike to the peak for breathtaking views. ✨ Evenings were spent in solitude at Pho Co Hoa Lu, followed by tranquil nighttime boating. All these attractions were conveniently close to each other. 🏨 Hotels:For a cozy and cost-effective stay, Friendly Home Hotel felt like a home away from home. 🥘 Food & Restaurants: The hotel offered a diverse menu, and nearby restaurants within walking distance provided additional dining options. 🛍️ Shopping: Shops were plentiful in Ninh Binh, although larger malls were a bit farther away. #trip #solotravel #vietnam

Coming to Ninh Binh, this is probably my favorite place. The evening is not as hot as during the day but it is very bustling with many folk music games and there are also many snack stalls nearby, so I really like it. A lot of people gather here, so I often go early and go home right away. If I have the chance, I will definitely come back here again. I hope everyone will visit this place in the evening because it really does not disappoint everyone. #summervacation #本地遊

Oh my god, I fainted because Hoa Lu ancient town is extremely beautiful. During the day, I don't see anything special. However, at night, it is crowded and bustling, and there are also bands performing. One thing I don't like here is that the boat ride is a bit expensive, at least 100 branches for an adult, but it only goes a little bit on the river. So I don't go. There are many delicious foods here, but they are quite small and almost all the same, so there is not much variety. The scenery here is extremely beautiful in pictures. If I have the chance, I will definitely come back again next time ~

#VietnamTravel Come to travel with a tour package that arranges to worship. Take me to Bai Dinh Pagoda. It is considered wow because the place is spacious and beautiful. It is the largest ancient site in Vietnam. There are many tourists who come to worship. Bai Dinh Pagoda has a large bell tower that must be more than 3 floors high. There is a place to worship the large bronze thousand-armed Guanyin. There is a large Buddha statue, an arhat. Their architecture along the way is beautiful. There are photos all the time. It is not boring. But it is very wide. It may take all day. #Vietnamese temple #Guanyin

Getting There - Located on the campus of Ky Lan Mountain, Hoa Lu Ancient Town was built based on the idea of the traditional culture of Dai Viet in the 10th century. It can be said that Hoa Lu Ancient Town was born to recreate show and restore all the beauty of the architecture as well as the culture of that time. Coming to this place, you will be delighted to have fun, learn and visit the traditional craft villages of our country such as Dong Ho painting village, Bodhisattva pottery village, Y Yen lacquer ... extremely interesting. Attractions - The space in Hoa Lu Old Town is extremely large, divided into two areas, where the product is introduced and the food court. The scenery here is designed based on the culture and traditions of our country in the 10th century, so it is very ancient and majestic. The set of photos about Hoa Lu Ancient Town by Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc posted on Check in Vietnam group partly depicts the beautiful and unique beauty of this place. Exploring Ninh Binh in 24H with the destination of Hoa Lu Ancient Town will definitely leave you with many memorable memories! Hotels - Hoa Lu Hotel Food & Restaurants - Guests will enjoy traditional, delicious and flavorful dishes. One of them must be mentioned: honey cake, glutinous rice cake, chung cake, gai cake, day cake, rice cake... these are all specialties of "our ancestors" from ancient times, many young people, especially in Big cities are not sure to enjoy the taste of these dishes. #mytripvlog #foodie

I had the opportunity to visit Ninh Binh on an early summer day in the North, the weather was very hot for a Southerner like me. This place attracts a lot of tourists from both Vietnam and abroad. You should come here once #NinhBinh, a place to visit once in your life. I came here for the second time on a summer day and had the opportunity to hang out in Hoa Lu ancient town. This is a very busy walking street, attracting a lot of tourists from Ninh Binh province. If you go through here, you should stop by Hoa Lu walking street, where many snacks are sold #ninhbinh #ninhbinh

King Kong movie filming location is the best!! It's a place where you can meet caves and beautiful nature here and there!! It's a great place to take pictures by boat and make memories!

First time experiencing Bai Dinh pagoda late at night. All the towers were brightly lit. Everyone was lovely and kind 🫶🏼 1. Location - Trang An Features - rowing boat through caves Rating - excellent 2. Location - Bai Dinh Features - taking electric car to the towers late at night Rating - good #awesomepic #deliciousfood #summervacation

Phố cổ Hoa Lư (Old Quarter Hoa Lu) is located near the town of Ninh Binh, which was inspired by the traditional culture of Dai Co Viet (an old name of Vietnam) in the 10th century. Hoa Lu is also known as the first capital of Vietnam. It is totally a great place to explore the beauty of ancient architecture and culture. Hope you like this post if you found this useful. Cheers :) #awesomepic #ninhbinh #vietnam

If you’re based in Hanoi, this is the best option for a quick escapade as it will only take 2 hours from the city. 📍Hang Mua Viewpoint, Ninh Binh 🚂 Transpo Options: train, limousine van, bus, private car  ✨Tips: You can simply go to Ga Hanoi (Hanoi Train Station) and buy a ticket or ask your hotel staff to arrange a private car for a convenient tour. You need to climb up to see the magnificent scenery of Ninh Binh. It felt like a thousand steps going up but the huge landscape view when you reach the top was all worth it. Other facilities and features: ✔️restaurants ✔️refreshment stalls ✔️souvenir shops ✔️hotel accommodations ✔️a swimming pool ✔️a cave ✔️📸instagrammable spots all over the place #ninhbinh #vietnam #mountainview #tripblazers #passionpassport #travel Inspiration #bucketlistreboot

#VietnamTravel It was hard to climb the stairs, but the view from the top was so beautiful no matter where you looked. It was so slippery and hard to take pictures of the dragon at the top. thôn Khê Đầu Hạ, Hoa Lu, Ninh Bình, Vietnam