Visit Ninh Binh in 2 or 3 days: A complete travel guide

Ninh Binh, located in northern Vietnam, is a unique destination that combines impressive limestone mountains, peaceful rivers and cultural landmarks, offering a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this complete travel guide, we’ll help you explore the best of Ninh Binh in just 2 or 3 days, whether you’re visiting its famous caves, temples, or natural wonders.

Don’t miss out on discovering this captivating region of Vietnam - let Hanoi Voyages help you plan your perfect trip!

Best time to visit Ninh Binh

Knowing the best time to visit Ninh Binh helps you plan better and enjoy each site without dealing with extreme weather.

• The dry season (October to April): is often preferred by travelers. During this time, the temperature is cooler and rainfall is minimal. March and April are great months for viewing the lush rice fields in early growth, while December and January are good for light outdoor activities without humidity.

• The wet season (May to September): brings more rainfall and humidity, but it is also when the rice paddies are at their most colorful. In June, the fields turn golden before harvest. If you don’t mind occasional rain showers, you can still enjoy most activities with fewer tourists around.

How to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi?

Getting to Ninh Binh is easy and affordable. It is located around 100 kilometers from Hanoi, making it a convenient option for short trips.

🚐 Limousine van: The most popular choice for travelers. Offers door-to-door service, comfortable seating, and is ideal for small groups.

🚌 Public bus: Regular departures from Giap Bat and My Dinh bus stations in Hanoi. Buses arrive in Ninh Binh City or Tam Coc, making it a budget-friendly option.

🚗 Car rental or motorbike: Perfect for those who want flexibility. You’ll have full control over your schedule and can stop along the way to explore the countryside.

What to do and see in Ninh Binh in 2 or 3 days ?

This guide offers a full plan for those wondering what to do in Ninh Binh in 2 or 3 days. That amount of time is just enough for travelers to discover limestone mountains shaped over centuries, quiet rice fields that reflect the peaceful charm of rural life and landmarks tied to the country’s past. Get ready to explore a place that draws attention from many visitors, especially international ones.

Day 1: Hoa Lu Site – Tam Coc – Bich Dong Pagoda

Start your journey by discovering landmarks that are both historical and scenic. These places are near each other, making them easy to explore in one day.

Hoa Lu Site

Once the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties, Hoa Lu is a quiet area surrounded by limestone mountains. You can visit the temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. The site also includes ruins and stone carvings that reflect its historical importance.

Although small, the area gives you an idea of the early political center of Vietnam. It’s a good place to start your trip with a calm walk and some background on the region’s past.

Tam Coc

After Hoa Lu, make your way to Tam Coc for a relaxing boat tour in Ninh Binh. A local rower will take you through caves and rice fields on a small river boat. The karst mountains around the water form a dramatic backdrop.

The ride lasts about two hours and passes through three caves. It’s best enjoyed in the morning before it gets too hot. This is also one of the most photographed spots in Ninh Binh, especially when the rice fields are green or golden.

Bich Dong Pagoda

A few minutes away from Tam Coc is Bich Dong Pagoda. The structure is set into a limestone cliff and consists of three pagodas at different levels. Climb the stone steps to reach the middle and upper levels for a quiet view of the surroundings.

Though small, the site has a peaceful atmosphere. It’s not crowded and offers a break from busy tourist areas. Local vendors nearby often sell snacks and drinks, which you can enjoy while resting.

Day 2: Bai Dinh Pagoda – Cuc Phuong National Park

This day takes you deeper into Ninh Binh, balancing religious architecture with forest exploration.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Start at Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. It includes thousands of Buddha statues, a giant bronze bell and a massive main hall. You’ll need at least two hours to explore the main areas, including the panoramic viewpoint at the top.

Electric carts are available if you prefer not to walk long distances. The size and design of Bai Dinh are impressive and many travelers include this stop in their Ninh Binh travel guide.

Cuc Phuong National Park

In the afternoon, travel to Cuc Phuong, about 45 km away. It is Vietnam’s oldest national park, known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. The Endangered Primate Rescue Center inside the park is worth a visit, where you can see langurs, gibbons and other animals.

You can also walk through the forest trails and visit a thousand-year-old tree. The paths are flat and manageable, making it a good option for visitors of all ages. This park gives you a different side of Ninh Binh that feels more untouched.

Day 3: Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve – Hang Mua site

For your last day, explore the quiet side of Ninh Binh and enjoy panoramic views.

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve

Van Long is a peaceful wetland where you can take another boat tour in Ninh Binh, this time without motor noise or crowds. The ride here is quiet and slow, offering views of birds, monkeys and plant-covered cliffs.

This reserve is less popular than Tam Coc but no less beautiful. It's ideal if you enjoy birdwatching or want a break from more developed tourist spots.

Hang Mua site

Wrap up your trip with a visit to Hang Mua. The climb of 500 steps 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.

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Some good accommodation options in Ninh Binh

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:

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 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 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

Useful tips to make the most of your visit to Ninh Binh

A trip to Ninh Binh becomes smoother with some planning. These practical tips will help you enjoy your experience more fully, avoid common mistakes and save time.

• Dress appropriately for temples and outdoor activities: Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites like Bai Dinh Pagoda and Bich Dong Pagoda. For outdoor spots, choose light clothes and comfortable shoes.

• Start your day early: Places like Tam Coc get busy after 9 AM. Early mornings offer cooler weather, fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.

• Try local dishes: Don’t miss goat meat and com chay (crispy rice). These dishes are popular in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city. Many homestays also serve home-style meals on request.

• Rent a bike or scooter: Most attractions are within a short distance. Renting a bicycle (around $2/day) or scooter (around $5–$7/day) gives you freedom to explore quiet countryside roads.

• Check the weather in advance: Rain may affect access to some caves and forest trails. Dry weather is better for outdoor sites and allows you to follow the suggested Ninh Binh 3 day itinerary more easily.

• Bring some cash: Small vendors, food stalls and boat ticket offices may not accept cards. ATMs are available in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city, but not in places like Cuc Phuong National Park.

Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore a quieter side of Vietnam within a short timeframe. With just 2 or 3 days, you can visit historical landmarks, enjoy peaceful boat rides, walk through limestone landscapes and experience the charm of the countryside. Each stop offers a different perspective without needing to rush between places.

Let Hanoi Voyages help you organize your journey and enjoy a smooth travel experience in Ninh Binh.