Suggestions For Ninh Binh Day Trip From Hanoi

Must-See Attractions in Ninh Binh

If you visit Ninh Binh, you absolutely must check out these spots.

Trang An

• Entry ticket price: 150,000 VND/person 

• Tour guide price: 300,000 VND/tour

Trang An is the first and only dual World Heritage site in Southeast Asia. It features a stunning network of 31 lakes and ponds connected to 48 caves. It showcases beautiful stalactites and stalagmites in places like Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Com Cave, Dia Linh Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, and Boi Cave.

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

In addition to its breathtaking caves intertwined with ancient limestone mountains, Trang An is home to historical sites. Such as Den Trinh, Den Tran, Den Tu Tru, Vu Lam Palace, Phu Khong, Suoi Tien Temple, and Cao Son Temple.

Tam Coc - Bich Dong

• Entry ticket price: 120,000 VND/person

• Boat tour price: 150,000 VND/boat/2 people

Tam Coc - Bich Dong is renowned for its golden rice fields and the meandering river that winds through stunning limestone mountains. It’s also home to an intriguing system of caves filled with ancient spiritual sites.

Scenic views like a painting in Tam Coc - Bich Dong

Here are some standout spots to visit in Tam Coc - Bich Dong:

• Ca Cave, Hai Cave, Ba Cave: A trio of caves that run through the mountains.

• Thai Vi Temple: A place dedicated to the revered kings and generals of the Tran Dynasty.

• Thien Huong Cave: Known for its spacious ceiling, it's often called Sky Cave.

• Bich Dong Pagoda: An ancient temple constructed in 1428 during the early Le Dynasty.

• Tien Cave: A system of three large caves featuring stunning and varied stalactites.

• Co Vien Lau: A historical area with several houses built during the Nguyen Dynasty.

Bich Dong Pagoda is nestled in the mountainside 

Mua Cave

• Entry ticket price: 100,000 VND/person 

This location's highlight is the path leading to the summit of Mua Mountain. The views along the way are breathtaking, with endless green fields of rice, charming houses with red-tiled roofs, and towering limestone mountains all around. Once you reach the top of Mua Mountain, you'll be treated to a spectacular panoramic view of the entire Tam Coc area.

Climb Mua Mountain to admire the panoramic beauty of Tam Coc from above

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

• Entry ticket price: 20,000 VND/person

Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010, serving under three dynasties: the Dinh, the Early Le, and the Early Ly. It is one of the four core areas of the Trang An World Heritage site recognized by UNESCO.

The temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang at Hoa Lu

Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Tram ticket price: 30,000 VND/person/one way

• Ticket price to visit the Bao Thap: 50,000 VND/person

• Tour guide price: 300,000 VND/tour

This is the largest temple complex in Vietnam and holds numerous records. Bai Dinh Pagoda was established in 2003 and spans over 500 hectares, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains.

Bai Dinh Pagoda has 8 records

Here are some of the records set by Bai Dinh Pagoda:

• The largest pagoda in Vietnam.

• Home to the largest gold-plated bronze Buddha statue in Asia.

• Contains the largest bronze Maitreya Buddha statue in Southeast Asia.

• Features the tallest stupa in Southeast Asia.

• Boasts the longest corridor of Arhat statues in Asia.

• Has the most Arhat statues in Vietnam.

• Houses the largest bronze bell in Vietnam.

• Contains the largest jade well in Vietnam.

Van Long Nature Reserve 

• Entry ticket price: 20,000 VND/person

• Boat tour price: 50,000 VND/tour

Van Long Wetland is regarded as the largest natural wetland reserve in the Northern Delta region, covering over 3,500 hectares. Currently, Van Long holds two Vietnamese records: it is home to the largest population of white-faced langurs and features the largest natural painting.

Van Long Nature Reserve 

Thung Nham Bird Park 

• Entry ticket price: 150,000 VND/person 

Thung Nham Bird Park spans an impressive 334.2 hectares and offers a wide range of engaging activities and experiences. You can enjoy fishing, climbing, exploring mangrove forests, discovering caves, visiting the bird garden, and wandering through flower valleys. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!

The bird population here includes 5,000 nests from 40 different species

Here are some of the standout locations in Thung Nham:

• But Cave: A natural cave that stretches 500 meters in length.

• Vai Gioi Cave: One of the largest caves in Thung Nham.

• Flowers Valley: A vibrant area that showcases blooming flowers year-round.

• Triangular Heritage Site: Includes Goi Dai Temple, Linh Than Mieu, and the Moving Banyan Tree.

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral

• Entry ticket price: Free

This is a famous Catholic structure in Ninh Binh. It’s over 130 years old and features unique and distinctive architecture that stands out from its era. After decades of construction, it still retains an impressive beauty that blends Asian and European styles.

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral 

Cuc Phuong National Park

• Entry ticket price: 60,000 VND/person

Cuc Phuong National Park spans over 22,000 hectares and boasts a typical tropical rainforest ecosystem. There are trees reaching diameters of several meters and heights of 40 to 50 meters. It is also home to hundreds of species of wildlife and thousands of insect species.

In September 2024, Cuc Phuong National Park was awarded the title of "Asia's Leading National Park" for the sixth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards.

Suggested 1-Day Itineraries

Option 1: Bai Dinh Pagoda - Trang An - Mua Cave

Option 2: Hoa Lu - Tam Coc - Cycling

Option 3: Hoa Lu - Thung Nham Bird Park

Travel Tips

To ensure a smooth trip in Ninh Binh, keep the following tips in mind:

• Ensure safety while boating: When exploring caves by boat, always wear a life jacket and follow the guidance of your boat rower.

• Dress appropriately: If your itinerary includes hiking spots like Bai Dinh, Mua Cave, or Tam Coc, opt for lightweight clothing and wear comfortable sports shoes. Bring water to stay hydrated. When visiting temples and pagodas, avoid wearing revealing clothing and keep noise to a minimum to respect the sacred environment.

• Protect the environment: Help preserve the natural beauty by reducing litter in public areas. Keep the landscapes clean for everyone to enjoy!

Want to explore further? Check out our post about best places to visit Vietnam!

A day trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi promises a delightful escape into nature’s splendor and Vietnam’s rich history. Whether you're exploring serene caves, cycling through picturesque landscapes, or savoring local delicacies, Ninh Binh is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, plan your Vietnam itinerary, and embark on this enchanting journey. Don’t hesitate to contact the NEW team if you need any support.