Ninh Binh, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land," is one of Vietnam's most stunning destinations. With its breathtaking landscapes of limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and serene waterways, Ninh Binh is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Although it may not be as famous as other destinations in Vietnam, it offers a unique charm that makes it worth visiting. If you're wondering what to do for a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

Can I Do Ninh Binh As A Day Trip From Hanoi?

You can easily visit Ninh Binh on a day trip from Hanoi. The Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi distance is around 100 kilometers, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by car or bus. This makes it one of the best destinations for a short getaway from the capital. If you want to escape the bustling city and enjoy nature, Ninh Binh is a perfect choice.

Even though one day is not enough to explore everything, you can still see many of the highlights. We recommend starting your day early to enjoy the peaceful landscapes before the crowds arrive. With the right plan, your Ninh Binh day trip can become one of the most memorable experiences of your journey in Vietnam.

What To Do For A Day Trip From Hanoi To Ninh Binh?

#1 A beautiful sampan ride in Tam Coc

A sampan boat ride is one of the most iconic experiences in Ninh Binh. Tam Coc is the most popular route, often called "Halong Bay on land" because of its towering limestone karsts rising from the rice fields. As you glide along the Ngo Dong River, you’ll pass through natural caves and see local farmers working in the fields. One special thing about this ride is that many of the boat rowers use their feet to paddle, a unique technique you won't see anywhere else.

For a quieter option, you can head to Thung Nang, which offers similar landscapes but fewer tourists. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent choice if you want to enjoy nature without the crowds.

The best time of the year to take a sampan ride is from late May to early June, when the rice fields turn golden and create a stunning view. You can also visit between September and November when the weather is cooler.

Tickets for Tam Coc cost around 250,000 VND per boat, with each boat carrying two people.

#2 A scenic bike ride in Tam Coc or Van Long

Cycling is a great way to explore the countryside of Ninh Binh. The roads around Tam Coc are mostly flat, making it easy for anyone to ride through rice fields, small villages, and karst mountains. Along the way, you can stop to take photos, visit local temples, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery.

If you prefer a quieter area, head to Van Long Nature Reserve. This place is less touristy and offers beautiful landscapes with wetlands and limestone mountains. The bike routes around Van Long are perfect for those looking to avoid the crowds.

The best time to go cycling is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Most hotels and homestays in Ninh Binh rent bicycles for around 50,000 to 100,000 VND per day.

#3 Visit Bich Dong pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a beautiful ancient temple nestled into a limestone mountain, just a short bike ride from Tam Coc. The pagoda consists of three levels: Lower Pagoda, Middle Pagoda, and Upper Pagoda.

To reach the top, you’ll need to climb a series of stone steps. Along the way, you'll pass through small caves and discover old statues of Buddha. The pagoda feels peaceful and hidden away from the busy tourist spots, making it one of the best places to enjoy the spiritual side of Ninh Binh.

You can visit Bich Dong Pagoda at any time of the year. You can plan your visit around November when it's dry and lotus are in season. Entrance to the pagoda is free.

#4 A getaway to the Van Long Nature Reserve

If you're looking for a quiet and nature-focused experience, Van Long Nature Reserve is the perfect choice. This wetland area is the largest of its kind in northern Vietnam and is home to rare species like the Delacour’s langur.

A sampan ride through Van Long is very different from Tam Coc. The water is still, creating perfect reflections of the limestone mountains. It's a great spot for birdwatching, especially in the late afternoon. The landscape feels untouched and peaceful, making it one of the best places to escape mass tourism.

The best time to visit Van Long is from November to April when the weather is cooler and the water level is perfect for boat rides. A boat ride costs around 100,000 VND and lasts about an hour.

#5 A charming buffalo cart ride in Van Long or Tam Coc

If you're looking for a unique way to explore the peaceful countryside, a buffalo cart ride is a wonderful option. This experience gives you a glimpse of rural life in Vietnam while slowly making your way through rice fields and small villages.

In Van Long Nature Reserve, the ride takes you along scenic paths with limestone mountains in the background. The calm atmosphere and slower pace allow you to take in the beauty of the landscape.

In Tam Coc, buffalo cart rides often pass through green rice paddies, small canals, and local homes. It's a great activity for families or those looking to connect with the local culture.

This activity is best enjoyed from November to April when the weather is cooler. Prices for a buffalo cart ride is around 150,000 VND per cart, which can carry two to three people.

#6 Visit Hoa Lu ancient capital and its temples

Hoa Lu was Vietnam’s capital during the 10th and 11th centuries. Today, it’s one of the country’s most important historical sites. The remains of the ancient city include two temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh.

The temples are small but beautifully decorated, with intricate carvings and peaceful courtyards. Walking through the complex gives you a sense of Vietnam’s rich history and royal past.

Hoa Lu is especially charming during spring, around March to April, when the surrounding landscapes turn green and fresh. Entrance tickets cost around 20,000 VND per person.

#7 A hike to the top of Hang Mua

For the best panoramic view of Ninh Binh, head to Hang Mua (Mua Cave). The hike involves climbing nearly 500 steps to the top of a limestone mountain. It’s a challenging climb, but the view at the top is absolutely worth it.

From the peak, you can see the river winding through the rice fields, with karst mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. The view is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

If you want to see the golden rice fields, visit in late May or early June. If you want to see lotus and water lilies in full bloom, visit in June or July. Entrance tickets cost around 100,000 VND.

#8 Discover the Phat Diem Cathedral

Located about 30 kilometers from Tam Coc, Phat Diem Cathedral is one of the most unique churches in Vietnam. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral blends traditional Vietnamese and Western architectural styles, with wooden carvings and stone towers.

The peaceful atmosphere and impressive structure make it worth the trip, especially for those interested in architecture and culture.

You can visit Phat Diem Cathedral all year round, but the best time is December when the weather is dry and cool, and the Cathedral is adorned with Christmas decorations. There is no entrance fee to visit the cathedral.

#9 Explore Cuc Phuong National Park

If you love nature, Cuc Phuong National Park is a must-visit destination on your Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi. This is Vietnam’s oldest national park and home to rare animals like langurs and pangolins.

You can take guided hikes through the tropical forest, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, or explore prehistoric caves. The park is especially beautiful from April to May when thousands of butterflies fill the air.

The best time to visit Cuc Phuong is from November to April for hiking or from April to May for the butterfly season. Entrance tickets cost around 60,000 VND per person.

#10 A great excursion to the Thung Nham Bird Park

If you're a nature lover, Thung Nham Bird Park is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Ninh Binh. This ecological park is home to hundreds of bird species, including storks, herons, and kingfishers. The best time to visit is late afternoon when flocks of birds return to their nests, creating a magical scene.

You can take a sampan ride through the wetlands or follow walking trails around the lake. The park also has a few caves like But Cave and Vai Gioi Cave, which you can explore during your visit.

The best time to see the birds is from August to November. If possible, plan your trip around early morning or late afternoon, when the birds are most active. Entrance tickets cost around 150,000 VND per person, including boat ride and entrance to But Cave.

#11 An excursion to the traditional craft villages in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is not only known for its natural beauty but also its long tradition of handicrafts. You can visit nearby craft villages to discover how locals make their products.

Kim Son Village is famous for making sedge mats, while Ninh Van Village specializes in stone carving. In Van Lam Village, locals make beautiful embroidery products.

Walking through these villages lets you see the artisans at work and even try your hand at making some crafts yourself. This experience is great for those looking to learn more about local life and culture.

#12 A beautiful sampan ride in Trang An and Bai Dinh

The Trang An Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning places in Ninh Binh. You can take a sampan ride through a network of limestone caves, emerald rivers, and lush green valleys.

The boat trip lasts around 2–3 hours and includes stops at temples and caves along the way.

Nearby, Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, with impressive statues and stunning views.

Similar to Tam Coc, the general best time to visit Trang An is from November to April, avoid Lunar New Year Period as it's peak season. Entrance tickets for Trang An cost around 250,000 VND per person, while Bai Dinh Pagoda is free to enter, though there is a small fee for the electric car service.

#13 A full-day excursion to Hoa Lu

If you're a history lover, spending a full day exploring Hoa Lu will give you a deeper insight into Vietnam's past. Start your trip by visiting the ancient temples of King Dinh and King Le. Then, take a walk through the surrounding countryside, where you'll see small villages, limestone hills, and rice fields.

Combine your visit with a boat ride in Tam Coc or Trang An for a perfect mix of history and nature.

#14 An off the beaten path excursion – A sampan ride to Thien Ha cave

For those looking to escape the crowds, Thien Ha Cave is a hidden gem. This cave is located within the Tuong mountain, with both dry and wet cave areas. The journey to the cave starts with a peaceful sampan ride along a small canal before reaching the cave entrance.

Inside, you'll find beautiful stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by soft lights. The cave is around 700 meters long, and the boat ride inside makes the visit even more special.

For a smooth excursion, visit during the dry season. Thien Ha Cave is perfect for those who want to discover Ninh Binh off the beaten path. Boat rides cost around 150,000 VND – 250,000 VND per person.

How To Visit Ninh Binh From Hanoi?

A day trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi by train or other transport options is one of the easiest ways to escape the busy city and explore Vietnam’s countryside. Ninh Binh is located around 100 km south of Hanoi, making it a convenient destination for a one-day getaway.

Here’s how you can get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh:

By Train

Taking the train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a scenic and comfortable option. Trains run regularly from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Station, with the journey taking around 2–2.5 hours. The train passes through beautiful landscapes of rice fields and small villages, giving you a glimpse of rural life.

There are different types of trains, from soft seats to sleeper cabins. Ticket prices range from 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND depending on the type of seat and train. You can easily book your ticket online or at the train station.

If you're planning a day trip, we recommend taking an early morning train to have more time to explore.
 

By Bus

Buses are another affordable way to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Several companies offer direct services from Hanoi’s Giap Bat Bus Station or My Dinh Bus Station to Ninh Binh. The journey takes around 2–3 hours, and ticket prices are between 150,000 VND to 250,000 VND depending on the bus company and comfort level.

Buses are more flexible than trains, with departures throughout the day. However, they can sometimes be less comfortable, especially during busy hours.

By Private Car

If you prefer comfort and convenience, booking a private car is the best option. A private transfer lets you travel at your own pace, with stops along the way for photos or breaks. This option is ideal if you're traveling with family or friends.

Private cars from Hanoi to Ninh Binh cost between 1,200,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND depending on the vehicle type and services included.
 

By Motorbike

For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike is a great way to explore the countryside on your own. The journey takes around 3 hours, and you can stop whenever you like to enjoy the scenery. However, this option is best for experienced riders as traffic can be challenging.

Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi price

The total cost of a Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi will depend on your choice of transport, activities, and meals. On average, a self-guided day trip will cost between 600,000–1,000,000 VND per person, while group tours range from 900,000–2,000,000 VND.

Final Words

A day trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi is a perfect escape into nature and history. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and peaceful atmosphere, Ninh Binh offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you're exploring by sampan boat, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, or cycling through scenic villages, this region has something for everyone. Now you know what to do for a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, let us help you plan your perfect journey. Book a tour with us and discover the hidden beauty of Ninh Binh!

>>> Cuc Phuong National Park in Ninh Binh

>>> Tam Coc in Ninh Binh: A Valley of Sunshine