Explore Ninh Binh: 7 must-see places for your trip

Planning a trip to Ninh Binh? Known for its dramatic landscapes and historical sites, this destination is a must-see for travelers seeking both beauty and culture. In this guide, we’ll highlight the 7 must-see places that will make your trip unforgettable, from tranquil boat rides to ancient temples.

You’ll discover spots that highlight the charm of Ninh Binh, offering a mix of natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Don’t miss famous attractions like the impressive Trang An, the panoramic view from Mua Cave, or the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these places are essential to your journey.

Start planning your journey with Hanoi Voyages and discover the best of Ninh Binh!

Why should you visit Ninh Binh for your trip?

Often called the “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh offers a quiet and scenic escape just a few hours from Hanoi. Known for its karst limestone landscapes, tranquil rivers and historic sites, this area is perfect for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and exploration. This Ninh Binh travel guide will help you navigate through its most remarkable sites, meals and practical travel tips.

Where is Ninh Binh located?

Ninh Binh is located in northern Vietnam, about 100 kilometers south of Hanoi. The city itself is small, but the surrounding countryside is home to most of the area's attractions, such as Tam Coc Ninh Binh, Trang An and Bai Dinh Pagoda.

What makes Ninh Binh unique?

Unlike more developed tourist areas, Ninh Binh still feels authentic. You’ll find wide rice fields, peaceful river routes and quiet villages. What sets this destination apart is its natural beauty combined with historical significance. Sites like Hoa Lu Ancient Capital tell stories of Vietnam's early dynasties, while Ninh Binh boat tours through caves and rivers offer a calm and memorable way to take in the scenery.

Best time to visit Ninh Binh

The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season, from late October to April. The weather is cooler and there is less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The rice fields are especially beautiful around May and June, when the harvest turns the fields golden.

Top 7 tourist attractions in Ninh Binh you can’t miss

With its mix of dramatic karst formations, calm rivers and significant historical landmarks, Ninh Binh offers more than just beautiful scenery—it invites you to slow down and connect with the land’s natural and cultural roots. These seven attractions are the highlights of any visit and deserve a spot in your travel plans.

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An is a centerpiece of any Ninh Binh travel itinerary. The area is made up of limestone peaks, emerald rivers, hidden caves and ancient temples, forming a breathtaking combination of geological and cultural value.

• Boat tour experience: Visitors sit in small rowing boats, usually paddled by local women

• Cultural landmarks: Along the journey, you’ll see historic pagodas and temples like Trinh Temple, nestled quietly among cliffs and trees.

• Filming location: Trang An was one of the filming sites for the Hollywood movie Kong: Skull Island, adding to its popularity.

💸 Ticket prices for Trang An (2025):

• Adults: 250,000 VND ( $10)

• Children under 1.4 meters: 120,000 VND ( $4.80)

• Free for children under 1 meter

⏰ Opening hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Tam Coc & Bich Dong

Tam Coc Ninh Binh is known for its limestone cliffs, peaceful river and rice fields. A paddleboat ride along the Ngo Dong River takes you through three caves with dramatic rock formations and changing views based on the season. Locals often row the boats with their feet, adding to the unique experience of this popular Ninh Binh boat tour.

A short ride away is Bich Dong Pagoda, a 15th-century temple complex built into a limestone mountain. It includes three levels: Lower, Middle and Upper Pagoda. A short climb rewards visitors with panoramic views of the area.

💡 Price to the area costs 120,000 VND (~$4.7) per person, while a boat ride in Tam Coc costs 150,000 VND (~$5.8) per trip.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Once the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries, Hoa Lu gives you a look into early Vietnamese history.

• Dinh Temple: Dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang, it features a traditional Vietnamese architectural style with carved wooden beams and dragon motifs.

• Le Temple: Just a few steps away, this temple honors King Le Dai Hanh. Both rulers played a key role in unifying the country during the early feudal era.

💸 Ticket prices for Hoa Lu Ancient Capital:

• Adults and children above 1.2 meters: 20,000 VND ($0.8)

• Free for children under 1.2 meters

⏰ Opening hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 23:00 PM

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Spread across more than 500 hectares, Bai Dinh Pagoda is not only Vietnam’s largest pagoda complex but also a major spiritual destination for pilgrims. The site is home to a massive bronze Buddha statue, over 500 stone Arhat statues and peaceful temple grounds. It's a spiritual site that also showcases impressive architectural detail.

💸 Ticket prices for Bai Dinh Pagoda:

• Entrance: Free

• Electric car rental: 30,000 VND/person/way (~$1.2)

• Stupa tower access: 50,000 VND/person (~$1.93)

• Tour guide ticket: 300,000 VND per tour (~$11.6)

⏰ Opening hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 21:00 PM

Hang Mua Site

The climb of 500 steps at the Hang Mua Site leads you to one of the best viewpoints in Ninh Binh. At the top, you’ll see a panoramic view of the Tam Coc area, the river and the surrounding mountains.

It’s best to go early or late in the day to avoid the midday heat. Though the steps can be steep, the experience is rewarding and gives you a wide view of the area you’ve spent the last days exploring. The entrance fee to Hang Mua is 100,000 VND per person (~$4).

Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s first national park, officially opened in 1963. It covers an area of over 25,000 hectares and is known for its limestone mountains, tropical rainforest and rich biodiversity.

The park is home to hundreds of bird species, rare mammals and ancient trees. One of its main highlights is the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, which protects langurs, gibbons and other native primates. With marked trails, caves and centuries-old trees, Cuc Phuong is one of top attractions in Ninh Binh for nature lovers.

Must-do activities in Cuc Phuong National Park:

• Join a guided hike through the dense forest

• Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center

• Trek to the 1,000-year-old White Seraya tree (70m tall)

• Explore prehistoric caves used by ancient humans

• Experience butterfly watching, especially during the warmer months, when the park becomes home to various butterfly species.

💸 Ticket prices for Cuc Phuong National Park:

• Adults: 60,000 VND (~$2.40)

• Children: 10,000 VND (~$0.40)

• Students: 20,000 VND (~$0.80)

⏰ Opening hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 22:00 PM

For more details: Guide to visiting Cuc Phuong national park

Van Long Nature Reserve

Quieter and less visited than Trang An or Tam Coc, Van Long is the largest wetland nature reserve in the northern region of Vietnam. It’s a great place to escape crowds and enjoy a more relaxed boat ride.

Van Long is also home to the rare Delacour’s langur, one of the world’s most endangered primates. With some luck, you might spot them resting on the cliffs.

💸 Ticket prices for Van Long Nature Reserve:

• Sightseeing ticket: 20,000 VND/person (~$0.80)

• Boat ticket: 80,000 VND/person (~$3.1)

• Free for children under 1.2 meters

What to eat in Ninh Binh: must-try local dishes

Ninh Binh not only offers scenic landscapes but also a distinctive food scene shaped by its mountain environment and rural traditions. From goat meat dishes to seasonal specialties, here are the local flavors you should try.

Best local food to try

These dishes represent the essence of Ninh Binh’s regional cuisine and are commonly served in both local eateries and family-style restaurants:

• Goat meat: The most iconic dish in Ninh Binh, served grilled, steamed with ginger, or raw with lemon and herbs.

• Crispy rice: Crunchy scorched rice topped with pork floss or dipped in savory sauces.

• Mountain snail: Found in limestone caves and often stir-fried with lemongrass and chili.

• Ninh Binh eel vermicelli: Vermicelli noodles with stir-fried eel, fried shallots and herbs in a rich broth.

• Mountain ant egg sticky rice: A seasonal and rare specialty, combining sticky rice with ant eggs and forest leaves.

• Rice crust with goat stew: A combo dish where crispy rice is dipped into rich goat stew sauce.

• Grilled fish with banana leaves: Common in rural areas, this dish features fish marinated with herbs and grilled in banana leaves.

🍽️ If you want to try more Vietnamese cuisine, read this: Vietnamese Food: Top 30 Must-try Dishes In Vietnam

Top-rated restaurants in Ninh Binh

If you're wondering where to try these dishes, here are some reliable places offering local food with good service and reasonable prices:

• Trung Tuyet Restaurant - 14 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ninh Binh

• Chookie’s Beer Garden - 42 D Luong Van Tuy, Ninh Binh

• Napolis Pizza Bar Tam Coc - Group 1, Van Lam, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

• Hoang Cuisine Vietnamese Restaurant And Vegetarian - Group 4, 200 meters from Tam Coc Wharf, Ninh Binh

• Restaurant Duc Nhat - 12 Hoang Hoa Tham, Ninh Binh

Where to stay in Ninh Binh for your trip?

Choosing the right place to stay can make your trip to Ninh Binh more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some options across different budgets, all located near top attractions:

Tam Coc Retreat

Tam Coc Retreat is set among rice fields, offering quiet surroundings and mountain views. Each bungalow is built using natural materials, with open-air bathrooms and a cozy design. It’s ideal for those who prefer a rustic feel with touches of comfort.

• Address: Hai Nham Village, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

• Price range: ~$96per nigh

Chez Hiep Homestay

Chez Hiep Homestay is a friendly family-run homestay in the Tam Coc area, perfect for travelers looking for a local experience. Rooms are clean, basic and come with air conditioning. The host, Hiep, is known for his warm hospitality and home-cooked meals. Guests can borrow bicycles for free and get help organizing tours.

• Address: Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh

• Price range: ~$30 per night

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort is a mid-range hotel located just a short walk from Tam Coc Wharf. Rooms are spacious, with garden or pool views. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and an on-site restaurant serving Vietnamese and Western food. This is a good option for couples or families seeking more comfort.

• Address: No. 9, Tam Coc - Bich Dong Tourist Center, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

• Price range: ~$60 per night

Tam Coc Garden Resort

Tam Coc Garden Resort is a high-end resort surrounded by gardens and rice paddies, ideal for those seeking peace and privacy. The resort features elegant villas with stone walls and wooden furniture, a saltwater pool and a restaurant serving seasonal local dishes. It’s a favorite among couples and honeymooners.

• Address: Hai Nham Hamlet, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

• Price range: ~$270 per night

🏨 Read more: Top 5 luxury hotels in Ninh Binh

How to get around Ninh Binh?

Getting around is easy once you arrive, but some planning helps make your visit smoother. Transportation in Ninh Binh is affordable and convenient for travelers who want to explore the area at their own pace

Local transportation options in Ninh Binh

Several transportation choices are available for getting between attractions, depending on your preference for comfort and flexibility:

• Bicycles and motorbikes: Ideal for exploring short distances like Tam Coc or local villages.

• Taxis and motorbike taxis (xe om): Readily available in town, suitable for quick rides.

• Electric cars: Found at major attractions like Trang An and Bai Dinh.

• Boat trips: Available in Trang An and Tam Coc, offering peaceful rides through caves and rice paddies with local guides.

How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi?

There are several ways to reach Ninh Binh from the capital, each offering different levels of comfort and cost.

• Limousine van: Comfortable, direct transfers with door-to-door service.

• Public bus: Budget-friendly, departing from Giap Bat and My Dinh bus stations, arriving in Ninh Binh City or Tam Coc.

• Car rental or motorbike: Perfect for flexibility and exploring at your own pace.

How many days do you need in Ninh Binh?

Hanoi Voyages recommends spending at least 2 full days in Ninh Binh to fully enjoy its natural beauty and cultural richness.

Day 1 Take a peaceful boat ride through Tam Coc’s scenic rice fields and limestone cliffs. Visit the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda nestled against the mountains, and finish the day with a climb to Hang Mua Viewpoint for panoramic views.

Day 2 Cycle through the peaceful countryside, pass local villages, and experience authentic rural life. This slower pace offers a true connection with the land and its people.

If you have more time, extend your stay to 3 days to explore Cuc Phuong National Park or the quiet beauty of Van Long Nature Reserve.

For more information let’s read: Visit Ninh Binh in 2 or 3 days: A complete travel guide

Estimated budget for your trip to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is an affordable destination, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Here's an idea of what to expect for your daily expenses during a short stay:

Daily travel expenses in Ninh Binh

A one-day trip to Ninh Binh typically costs around $100 per person. This includes transport (public bus or train), a boat tour, meals at local restaurants, entry fees to major attractions and staying at a mid-range hotel. You can adjust the budget depending on your accommodation choice and dining preferences.

How to save money when traveling in Ninh Binh

• Eat at local eateries: Enjoy authentic dishes at local spots rather than expensive tourist restaurants.

• Join group tours: Instead of private tours, opt for group boat rides or guided tours, which are much more cost-effective.

• Use public transportation: Save on transport costs by traveling by bus or train rather than renting a private car or motorbike.

• Book tickets in advance: Many attractions offer discounted tickets when booked ahead or online, so plan your visit early to save money.

• Stay in budget-friendly accommodations: Ninh Binh has a wide range of homestays and budget hotels that provide great value for money.

Ninh Binh offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich heritage and authentic experiences, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Vietnam. With its beautiful landscapes, historical sites and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the majestic caves of Trang An or cycling through peaceful rice fields, Ninh Binh promises a rewarding journey.

Book your Ninh Binh adventure with Hanoi Voyages now and discover the best that Vietnam has to offer!