Ninh Binh: Vietnam’s Most Cinematic Destination

Where is Ninh Binh and Why Is It Special?

Ninh Binh is a remarkable region in northern Vietnam, about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. It combines breathtaking natural landscapes with deep historical and cultural significance.

At its heart lies the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized in 2014 for its mix of towering karst peaks, hidden caves, tranquil valleys, and ancient temples. The area is often considered part of the cradle of Vietnamese civilization.

Ninh Binh is also home to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s capital during the 10th and 11th centuries. With its mix of dramatic landscapes, deep history, and peaceful countryside, Ninh Binh often feels more rewarding than crowded coastal destinations.

Arriving in Ninh Binh from Hanoi, I can describe it as the moment when the city gives way to karst cliffs and emerald fields, like stepping into another world where mountains, rivers, and temples exist in perfect harmony.

Top Things To Do in Ninh Binh

Boat tours (Trang An, Tam Coc, Thung Nắng, Van Long)

Trang An Landscape Complex

The Trang An Landscape Complex is Ninh Binh’s crown jewel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (recognized in 2014). A boat trip here takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, gliding along emerald rivers through dramatic limestone peaks and a network of caves, some stretching over a kilometer in length. Along the way, you will also pass ancient temples tucked into the cliffs, creating a setting so stunning that it was featured in films such as Kong: Skull Island.

• Trang An Boat Tour cost: 250,000 VND (10 USD) for adults, 100,000 VND (4 USD) for children under 1.4 meters.   
• Recommended Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the chosen route.   

>>> Tips: Considered the best boat tour in Ninh Binh, often recommended over Tam Coc due to a more tranquil experience with no aggressive selling or tipping requests.

Tam Coc Boat Ride

The Tam Coc boat ride is the classic image of Ninh Binh, with limestone cliffs and rice fields along the Ngô Đồng River. The 1.5–2 hour trip takes you through three caves: Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, where you duck under ancient stalactites. Best visited during the rice harvest when fields turn golden.

During harvest, the rice fields along the Ngo Dong River glow golden in the late afternoon light. From the boat, it feels like drifting through a sea of sunlight, with every bend revealing another postcard-perfect view.

• Ticket: 120,000 VND/person + 150,000 VND/boat (max 2 foreigners or 4 locals)
• Tip: Late May–early June & late September–early October are best for photos. Expect rowers to solicit tips or sell items.

>>> Tips: Be aware that rowers may try to sell items and expect tips, which can sometimes lead to aggressive interactions.

Thung Nang (Sunshine Valley)

Thung Nắng, or “Sunshine Valley”, is a quieter alternative to Tam Coc. The 1.5–2-hour boat ride passes karst cliffs, peaceful waterways, and in summer, blooming lotus ponds. It offers the same beauty without the heavy crowds.

• Ticket: ~100,000 VND/person
• Why choose: Tranquil experience, especially lovely during lotus season.

Van Long Nature Reserve

Vân Long is a wetland paradise where still waters mirror towering limestone cliffs. The 1.5–2 hour boat trip is the most peaceful in Ninh Binh, with chances to spot rare Delacour’s langurs and hundreds of bird species. On still days, Van Long truly becomes the ‘bay without waves’. The water is so calm it mirrors every cliff and cloud, broken only by the sudden splash of a heron taking flight.

• Ticket: 60,000 VND/boat (2 passengers)
• Why choose: A haven for eco-tourists, birdwatchers, and photographers chasing serenity.

Viewpoints & short hikes

Hang Mua (Mua Cave) Viewpoint

The Hang Múa viewpoint is Ninh Binh’s most iconic panorama. Reaching the dragon statue at the top of Hang Múa’s 450 steps, many travelers pause not just to catch their breath, but to take in the view. Boats trace silver lines across the river below, rice paddies stretch like a patchwork quilt, and the horizon feels endless. This is the most photographed spot in Ninh Binh, which is busy at peak times, but a must for any visitor.

• Entrance fee: 100,000 VND/person
• Best time: Sunrise for misty views or sunset for golden light; avoid midday heat.
• My advice: Park directly at the official lot near the entrance to avoid scam parking attendants.

Alternatively, visitors can either take a boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River to view the karst scenery or rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding rural areas and local villages.

Am Tien Cave

Am Tiên Cave (also called Valley of Love) captivates visitors with its emerald-green lake encircled by steep limestone cliffs. The atmosphere here feels serene and poetic, offering a refreshing escape from busier sites.

Historically, Am Tiên was linked to Queen Dương Vân Nga in the 10th century, who is said to have retreated here for both meditation and judgment. This cultural layer makes the site not only a natural gem but also a place steeped in legend. Still less known to tourists, Am Tiên is ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, cultural depth, and stunning photo opportunities.

• Entrance fee: 20,000–30,000 VND
• Climb: 10–15 minutes to a viewpoint overlooking the valley and the lake, with distant views of Bái Đính Pagoda.

Culture & History in Ninh Binh

Hoa Lu Imperial City

Hoa Lư Ancient Capital was the first capital of Đại Cồ Việt (ancient Vietnam) in the 10th and 11th centuries, under the reigns of Đinh Tiên Hoàng and Lê Đại Hành. This site marks the cradle of Vietnam’s feudal history before the capital was moved to Thăng Long (today’s Hanoi) in 1010. Visitors today can explore temples, stone gates, lotus ponds, and monuments dedicated to these emperors and to Queen Dương Vân Nga, who played a decisive role in linking the two dynasties.

• Entrance fee: 20,000 VND
• Highlights: Historic temples, tranquil courtyards, and the dramatic karst mountains as a backdrop.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Set into a limestone cliff, Bích Động Pagoda is a historic three-tiered complex (Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas) dating back to the 15th century. Climbing through the cool darkness of the cave passage, you suddenly emerge into light at the upper shrine. Before you, lotus ponds and green paddies stretch into the distance, framed by the karst cliffs, a view so peaceful it could belong to another century.

At Bich Dong, stepping out of the dark cave into sunlight feels like traveling back in time.

• Entrance: Free (parking ~10,000 VND)
• Highlights: Peaceful shrines, cave passages, countryside views. Some scenes of the French film Indochine (1992) were shot here, adding to its cinematic charm.

>>> Tip: Bring a flashlight for the cave section and dress modestly for temple etiquette.

Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

Located about 15 km from Tam Coc, Bái Đính Pagoda is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, covering more than 1,000 hectares. The site blends ancient temples with modern monumental structures, including a giant bronze Buddha, a 36-ton bell, and the world’s longest corridor with over 500 Arhat statues.

This pagoda holds 12 national and regional records, such as the largest bronze bell, the tallest and heaviest Buddha statues, and the longest Arhat hall.

• Entrance: Free; electric cart: 30,000 VND per ride inside the grounds

Phat Diem Cathedral

Built in 1891, Phát Diệm Cathedral is one of Vietnam’s most distinctive religious landmarks, blending Gothic Catholic design with Vietnamese pagoda-style architecture. The complex features stone and wooden chapels, a grand bell tower, and courtyards shaded by old trees.

Cultural note: Known as the “cradle of Vietnamese Catholicism,” this cathedral is the country’s largest Catholic center and was recognized as a national historical and cultural monument in 1988.

Nature & Wildlife in Ninh Binh

Cuc Phuong National Park

About 40 km from Ninh Binh city, Cúc Phương National Park is Vietnam’s first and largest national park, famous for its biodiversity and archaeological value. The park is home to more than 2,000 species of plants, 133 species of mammals, 122 species of reptiles and amphibians, 65 fish species, and nearly 2,000 species of insects.

• Highlights: Ancient trees, limestone caves with traces of prehistoric humans, and rescue centers such as the Endangered Primate Rescue Center and a turtle conservation center. From November to April, thousands of colorful butterflies fill the forest, creating one of the park’s most magical spectacles.
• Activities: Hiking, wildlife night-watching, camping, and guided eco-tours.

Thung Nham Bird Park

Located about 8 km from Tam Coc, Thung Nham Bird Park is a sanctuary for more than 40 bird species, including storks, herons, egrets, and kingfishers. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, when hundreds of birds return to their nest, filling the valley with movement and sound.

Opening hours:

• Summer: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Winter: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Entrance fee: 100,000–150,000 VND per person

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Should you spend 2 or 3 days?

▶️ People with limited time for a visit would generally do well to see at least one or two major attractions in Ninh Binh within one day. Usually, tourists land at Bai Dinh Pagoda or Tam Coc-Mua Cave for a day tour. The distance between tourist attractions must be taken into consideration.

▶️ For a high degree of pleasantness, a two-day itinerary is recommended if one can spare the time. Suggested itineraries are:

Itinerary I:

• Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh - Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Day 2: Tam Coc - Mua Cave - Departure

Itinerary II:

• Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh - Tam Coc - Mua Cave
• Day 2: Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda - Departure

▶️ In the case of a long itinerary for Vietnam, with Ninh Binh worth 3 days, we suggest the following itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh - Relaxing (bike ride, discovery of the rural areas, etc.)
• Day 2: Tam Coc - Mua Cave - Hoa Lu Temples
• Day 3: Bai Dinh Pagoda - Departure

Vietnam tours to include Ninh Binh:

• TOURS OF VIETNAM 10 DAYS
• TOURS OF VIETNAM 2 WEEKS

How to get to Ninh Binh?

From Hanoi (100 km / ~2 hours)

From Ha Long Bay / Cát Bà

• Bus/Minivan: 4–5 hrs, ~$12–18. Some direct transfers available via Hai Phong.
• Private Car: 3.5–4 hrs, ~$100–120 per vehicle. Convenient for groups but costly.

From Phong Nha / Huế

• Overnight Train: 8–10 hrs (Phong Nha via Dong Hoi, Huế direct). Prices 300k–800k VND ($12–35) depending on seat/berth class.
• Sleeper Bus: 8–9 hrs, ~$15–20. More budget-friendly, but less comfortable than train.

Getting Around Locally

• Bicycle: Often free at homestays; best for short rides in Tam Coc/Trang An.
• Motorbike Rental: ~150k VND/day ($6). Flexible but requires experience.
• Taxi/Grab: Available in town; useful for further sites like Bai Dinh or Cuc Phuong.
• Guided Tours: Many hotels arrange car + guide packages for day trips to temples, caves, and national parks.

>>> 🗺️ For a detailed overview of these stunning locations, explore our  Vietnam Tourist Map. 

When Are The Best Times To Visit Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh has four distinct seasons, each offering a different experience:

• Spring (Feb–Apr): Mild weather, lush green rice fields, and blooming flowers. One of the best times to visit.
• Summer (May–Aug): Hot and humid, with short rains. Beautiful lotus ponds in bloom, but bring sun protection.
• Autumn (Sep–Nov): Cool, dry, and very photogenic. Rice paddies turn golden before harvest — another best season.
• Winter (Dec–Jan): Cool and sometimes misty. Fewer tourists, but skies can be gray.

👉 Rice & Lotus Calendar

• Green rice fields: Feb–Mar
• Golden rice harvest: Late May–early June, late Sep–early Oct
• Lotus season: May–July

Tip: Avoid peak Vietnamese holidays like Tet (late Jan–Feb) when sites can be crowded with domestic travelers

>>>> Also read: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam

Where to stay in Ninh Binh?

Choosing where to stay in Ninh Binh can make a big difference in your trip. Whether you prefer a luxury resort in nature, a boutique hotel with cultural charm, or a homestay surrounded by rice fields, Ninh Binh has plenty of options for every traveler.

Luxury & Resorts

Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh 

Nestled near Van Long Nature Reserve, Emeralda is a 5-star eco-resort designed for relaxation and comfort. The resort features a large outdoor swimming pool, spa, tennis courts, gym, and even a children’s play area. Guests can also enjoy traditional Vietnamese massage and herbal baths.

Tam Coc Garden Boutique Resort

Styled like a traditional Vietnamese village, Tam Coc Garden offers a boutique luxury experience right among rice paddies and limestone karsts. With landscaped gardens, a beautiful swimming pool, and refined services, this resort combines high comfort with authentic countryside vibes.

Boutique & Mid-range

Le Clos du Fil Boutique Hotel 

Located in a 700-year-old embroidery village, Le Clos du Fil combines boutique lodging with cultural immersion. Guests can visit the family workshop, learn about Vietnamese embroidery traditions, and even purchase handcrafted garments. Rooms balance rustic charm with modern amenities.

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel 

A comfortable mid-range hotel with modern facilities, a swimming pool, restaurant, and family-friendly services. Its location near Tam Coc makes it a convenient base for exploring the main attractions.

Homestays with Views & Pools

Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow 

Set between limestone mountains and rice fields, this homestay offers wooden bungalows in traditional Vietnamese style. The peaceful atmosphere and mountain views make it one of the most loved stays in Ninh Binh.

Other homestays in Tam Coc and Trang An also offer pools, gardens, and family meals, perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, community-based experience.

>>> Read more: Best Hotels in Ninh Binh (Comfort and Authenticity)

What should you eat?

Cơm cháy (fried rice) is a dish that is prepared and eaten in several ways. Apart from ready-to-eat packets that visitors can enjoy immediately or buy as gifts, cơm cháy is served in restaurants on plates and accompanied by soups, broths, etc. Cơm cháy is crunchy and aromatic; thus, it is a must-try. More information includes the best gifts to buy in Vietnam.

Make sure to include Ninh Binh goat meat on your list of delicacies to try. This meat, which is usually tender and not too hard, is a local specialty. If curious, dive right into steamed goat, grilled goat, or goat with ginger sauce.

There are multi-cuisine restaurants serving both Vietnamese and Western dishes available in Ninh Binh. You will find these easily when you go there.

Ninh Binh Tourist Map

To make it easier for you to visualize your exploration trip in Ninh Binh, we want to share with you a map that includes the most attractive places.

Note: Green markers indicate the best spots in Tam Coc. The other markers correspond to Ninh Binh in its entirety.

FAQs

Is Ninh Binh worth it?

Yes, absolutely. Most travelers say 2–3 days in Ninh Binh are a highlight of their Vietnam trip because of the mix of stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and peaceful countryside. A day trip is possible, but staying overnight lets you enjoy sunrise and sunset without the crowds.

Trang An or Tam Coc?

Day trip or overnight?

Stay at least one night if you can. This allows you to enjoy sunrise at Hang Mua, cycle the countryside, and see the area without day-tour crowds from Hanoi. Day trips are doable, but rushed.

Is Ninh Binh good for kids?

Yes. Families with children will find Ninh Binh easy and enjoyable. Short boat rides like Tam Coc are manageable for kids, and cycling in the countryside is safe with little traffic. Choose homestays or hotels with pools to balance sightseeing with downtime.

Ninh Binh vs Ha Long Bay: Which is better?

Both are worth visiting, but for different reasons. Ha Long Bay is dramatic and iconic, with overnight cruises among limestone islands. Ninh Binh feels more peaceful, with rivers winding through rice fields, caves, and temples. Many travelers prefer Ninh Binh for its mix of culture, countryside, and fewer crowds, while Ha Long Bay is best for the “wow factor” of the sea.

Conclusion

Ninh Binh, the ancient capital, has many interesting things to occupy your time during this vacation. Whether you are a nature lover or one who loves culture, history, or even just people-watching, Ninh Binh promises to cater to your kind of spirit. Plan your trip well, and with this, you are assured of an experience to remember. We hope this article has been of assistance, and we wish you well as you enjoy this ancient land.

Contact us if you would like to incorporate Ninh Binh into your complete tour program for Vietnam:

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