Ninh Binh is a picturesque province in Vietnam, known for its stunning natural landscapes, ancient temples and pagodas, and friendly locals. Located just 95 km from Hanoi, it’s a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plan your trip to Ninh Binh, we have some suggestions for you below.
- How to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
By Train: The train is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. There are several trains departing from Hanoi Train Station to Ninh Binh every day. The journey takes around two to three hours and the fare ranges from VND 50,000 to VND 120,000, depending on the type of seat or cabin you choose.
The trains offer different classes, from basic seats to sleeper cabins with air conditioning. If you want to travel in comfort, you can choose a soft seat or a sleeper cabin. It’s advisable to book your train ticket in advance, especially during peak season, as the trains can get fully booked.
By Bus: Another popular option for traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is by bus. Several bus companies operate daily services between the two cities. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours and the fare ranges from VND 170,000 to VND 250,000.
It’s recommended to book your bus ticket in advance, as the buses can also get fully booked during peak season. And it can come to pick you up at your hotel if you are staying at hotels around the old quarter Hanoi.
By Private Car: If you prefer a more flexible and comfortable way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you can hire a private car. This option is ideal for travelers who want to make stops along the way or have a specific itinerary in mind. The journey takes around two hours, depending on traffic conditions, and the cost starts from VND1,200,000.
You can easily arrange a private car transfer through your hotel or a travel agency. The driver will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi and drop you off at your destination in Ninh Binh.
By Motorbike: For the adventurous traveler, renting a motorbike is a great way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. It allows you to explore the countryside and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. You can rent a motorbike in Hanoi for around VND 150,000 to VND 250,000 per day.
However, it’s important to note that driving a motorbike in Vietnam can be challenging, especially for first-time riders. The roads can be chaotic, and traffic rules are not always followed. If you choose this option, make sure you have a valid driving license and wear a helmet at all times.
These are several ways to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Whether you choose to take the train, bus, private car, or motorbike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
2. Where to stay in Ninh Binh.
Tam Coc is a beautiful and peaceful area that offers travelers the opportunity to experience the authentic Vietnamese countryside, access top attractions, and enjoy a wide range of accommodation options. Staying in Tam Coc allows travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture, unwind in a peaceful environment, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery of Ninh Binh province.
- Experience the authentic Vietnamese countryside: Tam Coc is located in the heart of the Red River Delta, where the Vietnamese countryside is at its most beautiful. The area is filled with verdant rice paddies, winding rivers, and towering limestone cliffs. Staying in Tam Coc allows travelers to experience the authentic Vietnamese countryside and immerse themselves in the local culture.
- Access to top attractions: Tam Coc is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Ninh Binh province. One of the most famous is Tam Coc – Bich Dong, a series of caves and temples located inside a towering limestone mountain. Travelers can take a boat ride along the river to explore the caves and admire the stunning natural scenery. Other popular attractions in the area include Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Trang An Landscape Complex, and Van Long Nature Reserve.
- Wide range of accommodation options: Tam Coc offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone. The area is also home to many homestays, where travelers can experience the local way of life and learn about Vietnamese culture firsthand.
- Peaceful and relaxing environment: Tam Coc is known for its peaceful and relaxing environment. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, travelers can unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The area is also known for its fresh and delicious cuisine, with many local restaurants offering traditional Vietnamese dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
3. The best time to visit Ninh Binh
The best time to visit Ninh Binh depends on your preferences and priorities. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October. If you want to experience the local culture and traditions, plan your trip around one of the many festivals and events. And if you want to see the stunning natural landscapes of Ninh Binh at their most beautiful, consider visiting during the rainy season from May to September. Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:
- Weather: The weather in Ninh Binh is tropical, with a hot and humid summer season from May to September and a cooler and drier winter season from November to March. The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the cooler months of November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable and rainfall is lower. However, the summer months of May to September can also be a good time to visit if you don’t mind the heat and humidity.
- Peak tourist season: The peak tourist season in Ninh Binh is from November to March, when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, the province can be crowded with tourists, and prices for accommodation and activities can be higher. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October.
- Festivals and Events: Ninh Binh is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, which can be a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. One of the most popular festivals is the Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival, which takes place in February or March and attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors. Other festivals include the Trang An Festival in April, the Hoa Lu Festival in May, and the Ninh Binh Tourism Week in June.
- Scenery and landscapes: The scenery and landscapes of Ninh Binh are at their most beautiful during the rainy season from May to September. During this time, the rice paddies are lush and green, and the rivers and streams are full of water. However, the rainy season can also bring flooding and muddy roads, which can make travel more difficult.
4. Things to do in Ninh Binh
Filled with natural beauty and cultural attractions, from stunning limestone karsts to ancient temples and pagodas, there is something for everyone in Ninh Binh. Visitors can explore the area’s many sights and activities, or simply relax and take in the peaceful countryside.
- Visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong
Tam Coc-Bich Dong is a series of caves and temples located inside a towering limestone mountain. The best way to explore this stunning natural wonder is by taking a boat ride along the river, passing through caves and admiring the beautiful scenery. - Explore Trang An landscape complex
Trang An Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts spectacular limestone karst scenery, rivers, and caves. Visitors can take a boat ride through the waterways and explore the many caves and temples within the complex. - Discover the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu was the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries, and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the ancient temples, pagodas, and palaces that once housed the royal court. - Hike to Mua Cave
Mua Cave is a stunning natural formation that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. To reach the cave, visitors must climb 500 steps up a steep hill. The effort is well worth it for the stunning panoramic views from the top. - Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam’s largest national park and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, visit the primate rescue center, and see rare species of birds and animals. - Learn about Vietnamese history at Phat Diem Cathedral
Phat Diem Cathedral is a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architecture, built in the late 19th century. The cathedral is known for its ornate carvings and intricate designs, and is a fascinating glimpse into the religious history of Vietnam. - Take a bike ride through the countryside
Ninh Binh’s countryside is dotted with charming villages, rice paddies, and karst formations. Renting a bike and exploring the area is a great way to experience the local culture and scenery.