13 Unmissable Things to Do in Ninh Binh
There are so many things to do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam that go far beyond the typical tourist traps. After spending a months in Hanoi, I craved an escape to nature and found Ninh Binh to be the perfect retreat. With its stunning limestone karsts, quiet countryside, and fewer crowds than more popular destinations, this spot quickly became a highlight of my travels.
Whether you’re looking to explore ancient temples, take scenic boat rides, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Ninh Binh. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Where is Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh a UNESCO world heritage site is located around 2 hours south of Hanoi in the province of the same name. Most people refer to Ninh Binh Province rather than the city itself when they talk about it.
Most travelers stay in either Tam Coc or Trang An. These two towns are where you’ll likely base yourself while exploring the area. I go a little deeper into which you should pick based on your preferences below.
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So Where Should You Stay? Trang An vs Tam Coc
You’ve decided on your trip to Ninh Binh, but now you’re faced with the dilemma of where to stay. Tam Coc is a popular choice for tourists because it’s more developed. You’ll find a busy main street lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops. If you enjoy some nightlife or want easy access to dining options, Tam Coc might be a good fit. However, I found Tam Coc too crowded and touristy for my taste.
After a month in Hanoi, I needed a break from the chaos and noise. I wanted to be surrounded by nature, so after researching and talking to locals, we chose Trang An. It’s quieter and more spread out, surrounded by rivers, green rice fields and limestone cliffs. We stayed at Green Mountain Homestay, and I think this was my the highlight of my Vietnam trip.
Tam Coc is convenient, but Trang An offers a peaceful, nature-focused experience without the crowds. We loved our time there for exactly that reason—it was the perfect escape.
How Much Time Do You Need?
I’m a slow traveler, and I hate rushing through places. If time is limited, I’d rather do fewer things than stress about cramming everything in. We stayed in Ninh Binh for three nights. You can choose how long you stay based on your travel pace. Just make sure to stay for at least two nights to make the most of it. If you’re really short on time, one night will do, but two is the sweet spot.
Should You Plan a Day Trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
Honestly, it depends on how you want to spend your time. If you’re really strapped for time, sure, you could squeeze in a day trip. But if you can, I’d recommend cutting a day off somewhere else in your itinerary and staying at least one night. While Hanoi to Ninh Binh is just two hours, a day trip means you’ll spend most of your time on the road. I think Ninh Binh deserves more than just a quick visit, so try to give yourself more time here.
If you absolutely have to do a day trip, I recommend booking this tour through for a well-organized experience.
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
We visited Ninh Binh right after Typhoon Yagi hit in the middle of monsoon season. Honestly, we couldn’t have picked a worse time to go, but somehow we got lucky (which is rare when it comes to my travel luck!). I had to cancel my Ninh Binh plans three times before finally making it. We came to Hanoi a week before the typhoon, and the flooding in the north was pretty disastrous.
The best time to visit is during the dry months from November to April when the weather is cooler, and you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about rain. If you want to see the rice fields in full bloom, aim for May to July, but avoid the monsoon if you can!
Getting from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
By Bus
Bus tickets are easy to arrange, and you can book through 12GoAsia. We took a luxury limousine, which in Vietnam refers to a high-end minibus. For just $10, it was the most comfortable bus ride I’ve ever had! There are hundreds of daily options, many of which offer hotel pick-up in Hanoi and drop-off at your accommodation in Ninh Binh, making it super convenient.
By Train
For a scenic option, the train is slower but offers beautiful views of the countryside. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, but once you arrive in Ninh Binh city, you’ll need a taxi to reach Tam Coc or Trang An. You can book tickets on 12GoAsia for the train as well.
By Private Car or Motorbike
If you prefer flexibility, renting a private car or motorbike is a great option. A private car offers door-to-door service with the ability to stop along the way. Motorbikes give you freedom, but the roads can be chaotic, and the drive is longer so it’s not for the faint of heart.
Things To Do In Ninh Binh, Vietnam
I’m writing this list based on my personal experience, so you’ll find my favorite activities at the top. If you’re pressed for time, I’d suggest starting from number one. These are the must-dos, followed by those I’d consider optional if time allows.
1. Take the Trang An Boat Tour
Cost: 250k VND per person (boat seats up to 4 adults)
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Distance from Trang An: 0 km (it’s right there!)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~7 km (20 minutes by car)
Trang An is an absolute must-do for its impressive karst mountains and winding cave systems. It can get crowded, so I’d recommend taking the first boat of the day or the last one before sunset to avoid the rush of day-trippers from Hanoi. We went early, and it was easily one of the best parts of our trip. It even made me reconsider doing a boat trip in Ha Long Bay after seeing how touristy these spots can get.
The boat tour passes through several temples and caves. One of the temples we passed through reminded me of scenes from old kung fu movies, with their serene, mysterious atmosphere — the kind where the master lives to train students. It was such a cool, unexpected experience.
We shared the boat with a lovely Vietnamese couple and a friendly rower who seemed to be sharing all sorts of stories about the area’s history. I only wish I could understand!
One thing that felt off, though, was seeing tourists sitting while the rower did all the work. These rowers are strong, but there are extra oars in the boat for a reason—don’t just sit there. Grab an oar and help out!
2. Climbing to the Mua Cave Viewpoint
Cost: 100k VND
Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours
Distance from Trang An: ~5 km (15 minutes by car)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~4 km (10 minutes by car)
If there’s one place in Ninh Binh you should visit early, it’s Mua Cave Viewpoint. It opens at 5 AM, and we got there by 7. At that time, it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. By the time we descended at 9 AM, the tour buses from Hanoi started to arrive, and the experience felt completely different. The crowds make a huge impact on how enjoyable this spot is, so getting there early really does matter.
The climb itself isn’t too challenging—there are about 500 stone steps to reach the top. The view from the top offers panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields, rivers, and limestone peaks. You can also see the rowing boats in Trang An in the distance.
Everyone seems to rave about the views, but for me, they were a bit underwhelming, probably because I’d seen so many photos beforehand.
That said, the area around the viewpoint, including the bamboo bridges and lily ponds at the base, were really charming and added to the experience. It’s worth taking some time to explore the entire area, not just rush up and down for the views. There are a few cozy cafés by the lake where you can grab a drink and relax after the climb.
3. Pedal Through Ninh Binh’s Countryside on Two Wheels
Cost: Usually free at most accommodations
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Even though I’m not the most confident cyclist, I couldn’t resist exploring Ninh Binh by bike. Most accommodations offer free bicycles, which is a nice perk if you’re on a budget. Just be aware that some roads are gravel with potholes, so expect a bit of a bumpy ride! There’s no need to follow a set route—just hop on your bike and get lost in the stunning countryside.
One thing to keep in mind: a lot of these small roads aren’t well-lit at night, so if you’re out after sunset, make sure you’ve got a good light or head back before dark. It’s such a peaceful way to explore the area, and honestly, this is where my personal things to do in Ninh Binh list ends. The rest I did because I had the time!
4. Eat Some Goat
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you might want to skip this part. As someone who comes from a country where goat is a staple, I was thrilled to find Ninh Binh’s famous goat dishes. After months of missing this kind of meal, I finally got to indulge. Goat is the local specialty here, often served grilled or in stews, and it’s something you have to try if you eat meat.
Side note and not really about goats, but if you want some non traditional food, I absolutely loved the vibe at Chookies Beer Garden, a somewhat upscale looking bar that has great have craft beers and burgers.
5. Step Back in Time at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Cost: 20k-30k VND
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Distance from Trang An: ~8 km (15 minutes by car)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~12 km (20 minutes by car)
Hoa Lu is one of Ninh Binh’s most touristy spots during the day, but we decided to visit at night, and it was a totally different experience. After sunset, the ancient capital city transforms with lantern-lit pagodas and a peaceful atmosphere that feels almost magical. There’s also a lively night market with street food vendors, making it a fun spot to wander around.
6. Embrace The Slow Life
Your trip isn’t just about checking off a list of things to see in Ninh Binh. If you’re like me, you’ve probably just come from the chaos of Hanoi, characteristic of most big cities in Southeast Asia, and are looking for a break. This is your chance to slow down, take in the natural beauty, and do absolutely nothing for a bit. You don’t need to rush through everything here.
Spend a day simply soaking up the views, breathing in the fresh air, and enjoying the slower pace of life. It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about unwinding, too. After all, you’re likely on vacation, so give yourself permission to rest!
7. Climb Up to the Cave at Bich Dong Pagoda
Cost: Free
Time Needed: 1 hour minutes
Distance from Trang An: ~4 km (10 minutes by bike)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~3 km (5-10 minutes by bike)
Bich Dong Pagoda is an ancient temple close to both towns and easily reachable by bike. I found it was definitely less crowded than some other spots in Ninh Binh. The pagoda itself is built into a limestone mountain, with three levels—high, middle, and low. The middle temple is tucked inside a cave, which was home to a colony of bats when we visited (pretty cool!). The architecture has Chinese influences, and the stone bridge at the entrance adds a nice touch. It’s worth a stop, especially since it’s free and easy to get to.
8. Wander Through Tam Coc’s Bustling Streets
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Distance from Trang An: ~7 km (15 minutes by car)
Distance from Tam Coc: You’re already there!
Tam Coc is the place to be if you’re looking for a mix of local charm and more Westernized comforts. The high street is lined with everything from restaurants and cafés serving Indian, Mexican, and Vietnamese food to bars and pharmacies. It’s the best place in Ninh Binh for a night out or for picking up any essentials. Spend some time wandering around the lake, grabbing a smoothie, or enjoying lunch at one of the many spots. Tam Coc is definitely the area to explore if you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere.
9. Take a Stroll Around Am Tien Lake
Cost: 20k VND entrance, 5k VND for bike parking
Time Needed: 1 hour
Distance from Trang An: ~7 km (15-20 minutes by bike)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~10 km (20 minutes by bike)
Am Tien Lake is a peaceful, underrated gem surrounded by towering limestone mountains. It’s a quiet spot with fewer tourists, making it a great stop if you’re cycling through the area. It is a man-made lake, and you can walk around it in less than an hour, passing by small temples and tunnels carved into the mountain. While the water might not be the clearest, the landscape is beautiful, and the tranquility is a refreshing break from the busier spots in Ninh Binh. It’s perfect for a quick, scenic stroll.
10. Step Into Nature at Thai Vi Temple
Cost: Free
Time Needed: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Distance from Trang An: ~5 km (10 minutes by bike)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~3 km (5 minutes by bike)
Thai Vi Temple may not stand out as much as some of the grander temples in Vietnam, but the journey to get there makes it a worthwhile visit. Surrounded by rice fields and rivers, this 13th-century temple feels like a peaceful retreat from the more tourist-heavy spots. The ride or walk through the surrounding countryside is especially scenic. While the temple itself might not be the most impressive in Vietnam, the setting is beautiful. Don’t forget to explore the small pier behind the temple for even more serene views.
11. Explore Vietnam’s Largest Pagoda at Bai Dinh
Cost: Free
Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
Distance from Trang An: ~12 km (20 minutes by car)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~20 km (30 minutes by car)
Bai Dinh Pagoda is Vietnam’s largest pagoda and an absolute must-see for those who love grand architecture and spiritual spaces. The sheer size of this complex is overwhelming, with towering statues, ornate carvings, and a massive Buddha dominating the skyline. While it’s a major tourist destination, the scale of the pagoda and its surroundings is worth the visit. Even if you don’t consider yourself particularly spiritual, the views and sheer magnitude of the complex make it an impressive stop.
12. Van Long Nature Reserve
Cost: Varies depending on the boat ride
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Distance from Trang An: ~20 km (30 minutes by car)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~25 km (40 minutes by car)
I’ll be honest—we skipped Van Long Nature Reserve during our trip. While I’m slowly warming up to birdwatching (it’s definitely an age thing), I wasn’t into it enough to make a special trip just for that. In hindsight, I think it would have been a cool experience, even for non-birdwatchers. The reserve offers boat rides through wetlands, with beautiful limestone karsts and the chance to see rare langurs and plenty of bird species. If you’re looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experience, this could be a great option.
13. Trekking Through Cuc Phuong National Park
Cost: Entrance fee of 60k VND
Time Needed: 1 day for hiking
Distance from Trang An: ~40 km (1 hour by car)
Distance from Tam Coc: ~45 km (1 hour by car)
Cuc Phuong National Park is a must for nature lovers and those looking for a bit of adventure. This vast park is Vietnam’s oldest national park and home to a wide variety of wildlife, including rare langurs and birds. The park has several hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging treks, all surrounded by thick jungle and stunning scenery. If you’re lucky, you might spot the rare animals that call this park home. It’s a perfect escape for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s natural beauty.
How to Get Around Ninh Binh
Getting around Ninh Binh is pretty straightforward. Most people either rent a motorbike (which is the easiest way to explore) or use the free bicycles offered by many accommodations. If you’re not comfortable with either, you can always rely on Grab, though since Ninh Binh is more rural, it can sometimes take a little longer to find a ride. That said, I never had any issues with Grab drivers during my stay, so it’s a reliable option if you don’t want to drive yourself.
Ninh Binh might not be the hidden gem it once was, but it’s still a peaceful escape compared to busier spots like Ha Long Bay or Hanoi. Whether you’re cycling through the rice fields, taking a boat through limestone caves, or just enjoying the slower pace of life, Ninh Binh is a refreshing break from the usual tourist trail.
If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, I highly recommend adding Ninh Binh to your itinerary for at least a couple of days. And if you’re looking for more travel inspiration, check out my other Vietnam articles to help plan your adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there ATMs in Tam Coc and Trang An?
Yes, there are two ATMs in Tam Coc: one at the BIDV bank on the main street and another outside the Ninh Binh Hidden Charm hotel. Trang An also has an ATM at the visitor center where the boats depart. However, I’d recommend having some cash on hand just in case.
How to go from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc?
To get from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc, you can bike, cycle, or use Grab. Grab is the easiest if you’re looking for convenience, but cycling is a great option if you prefer exploring at your own pace.
Which should I pick, Ha Long Bay vs Ninh Binh?
If you’re deciding between Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh, I personally chose Ninh Binh based on reviews about Ha Long Bay being overcrowded with tourists. While I haven’t visited Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh offers a quieter, more nature-focused experience.
Is Ninh Binh city worth visiting?
If you’re asking about the city itself, then no, Ninh Binh city isn’t much of a highlight. But the surrounding area—Ninh Binh province—is absolutely worth visiting, with its stunning landscapes and activities.
