Ninh Binh, one of Vietnam’s most attractive destinations, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting activities. Located just about 90 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is an ideal choice for those seeking a short getaway filled with experiences. The one-day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh will take you to famous landmarks and create unforgettable memories. Let’s with Hanoibylocals reviews all the Ninh Binh One Day Tour from Hanoi !
Benefits of Joining a Ninh Binh One-Day Tour From Hanoi
- Stunning Scenery: Ninh Binh is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, featuring limestone mountains and lush rice fields, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
- Time-Saving: Ninh Binh is just 90 km from Hanoi, making it easy to plan a day trip. With organized transportation, you can relax and enjoy the journey without any hassle..
- Professional Guides: You will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who understand the local culture and history, helping you gain deeper insights into the attractions.
- Diverse Experiences: The tour includes various activities such as boat rides, cycling, and tasting local cuisine, offering you a rich array of experiences.

One-Day Ninh Binh Tour Options
Hoa Lu – Tam Coc Tour (with Cycling)
- Itinerary:
- 7:30 AM: Depart from Hanoi.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Hoa Lu. Visit the ancient capital of Vietnam, where you will explore the temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le. These temples reflect the historical significance of the Dinh and Le dynasties, showcasing ancient architecture and intricate carvings. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the historical context of this site, including its role in the formation of Vietnam as a nation.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes such as grilled goat, fried rice, and local vegetables.
- 1:30 PM: Depart for Tam Coc. Take a boat ride on the Ngo Dong River, where you will glide through breathtaking limestone karsts and rice paddies. The boat ride will take you through three caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba), allowing you to appreciate the stunning natural beauty and serene environment.
- 3:30 PM: Cycle through picturesque rural villages, interacting with local farmers and experiencing daily life in the countryside.
- 5:00 PM: Begin your return journey to Hanoi.
- 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi.
- Price: 900,000 VND/person.
More detail: Hoa Lư – Tam Coc (Cycling)


Bai Dinh Pagoda – Trang An Tour
- Itinerary:
- 7:30 AM: Depart from Hanoi.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Bai Dinh Pagoda. Explore the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam, which features impressive architecture, numerous statues, and the giant bronze Buddha statue. The pagoda is a significant spiritual site, and you will learn about its importance in Vietnamese Buddhism, including the various rituals and ceremonies held here.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties.
- 1:30 PM: Depart for Trang An. Experience a scenic boat tour, navigating through a network of caves and waterways. The tour will showcase the stunning landscapes, including lush greenery and towering limestone mountains. Your boatman will share stories about the history and legends of the area, enriching your understanding of this area.
- 4:00 PM: Return to the dock and prepare to head back to Hanoi.
- 6:30 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi.
- Price: 950,000 VND/person.

Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave Tour (with Cycling)
- Itinerary:
- 7:30 AM: Depart from Hanoi.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Hoa Lu. Visit the ancient capital, exploring the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties. Discover the rich history of this site, including its role in Vietnam’s early monarchy. The temples are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, providing a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional dishes.
- 1:30 PM: Depart for Trang An. Take a boat ride through the picturesque landscape, passing through stunning caves and enjoying the serene waters. This area is known for its biodiversity and geological formations, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
- 3:00 PM: After the boat tour, hike up to Mua Cave. The climb consists of about 500 steps, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, rice fields, and the Ngo Dong River. It’s a great spot for photography and enjoying the sunset.
- 5:00 PM: Begin your return journey to Hanoi.
- 7:30 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi.
- Price: 990,000 VND/person.
Read more detail: Hoa Lu- Trang An- Mua Cave

Bai Dinh – Trang An – Mua Cave Tour
- Itinerary:
- 7:30 AM: Depart from Hanoi.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Bai Dinh Pagoda. Explore the vast grounds, including the impressive Bell Tower and the statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Learn about the spiritual significance of this site and the various architectural features that make it unique.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.
- 1:30 PM: Depart for Trang An. Experience a boat tour through serene waters and beautiful landscapes, exploring caves and enjoying the tranquility of the area. This tour provides insight into the local ecosystem and the cultural significance of the landscape.
- 4:00 PM: After the boat ride, hike to Mua Cave. This hike offers stunning views of the rice fields and mountains below, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
- 6:00 PM: Begin your return journey to Hanoi.
- 7:30 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi.
- Price: 1,050,000 VND/person.
Read more detail: Bai Dinh- Trang An- Mua Cave

Van Long Natural Reserve – Thung Nham Bird Park Tour
- Itinerary:
- 7:30 AM: Depart from Hanoi.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Van Long Natural Reserve. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the reserve, where you can observe unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Delacour’s langur. The reserve is known for its pristine landscapes and biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers.
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
- 1:30 PM: Explore Thung Nham Bird Park, where you can see various species of birds in their natural habitat. The park is a great place for birdwatching and offers beautiful scenery, including lush gardens and tranquil lakes.
- 4:00 PM: Begin your return journey to Hanoi.
- 6:00 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi.
- Price: 1,200,000 VND/person.

Price List for One-Day Ninh Binh Tours from Hanoi
Tour | Price (VND/person) |
Hoa Lu – Tam Coc | 900,000 |
Bai Dinh Pagoda – Trang An | 950,000 |
Hoa Lu – Trang An – Mua Cave | 990,000 |
Bai Dinh – Trang An – Mua Cave | 1,050,000 |
Van Long – Thung Nham | 1,200,000 |
What’s Included in the Tour?
- Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
- Guided Tours: Professional English-speaking guide.
- Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to attractions included in the itinerary.
- Meals: Buffet lunch at a local restaurant featuring local specialties.
- Boat Rides: Boat rides at Tam Coc or Trang An.
- Cycling: Optional cycling through scenic rural areas (where applicable).
What’s Not Included in the Tour?
- Beverages: Costs for drinks during meals are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as souvenirs and tips for the guide.
- Activities Not Listed: Additional activities not specified in the itinerary are not included.
Top Famous Attractions in Ninh Binh
- Trang An: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful landscapes and caves, perfect for boat tours. The area is rich in biodiversity and features stunning limestone karsts rising dramatically from the water.
- Tam Coc: Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc is famous for its three caves and stunning natural scenery. The boat ride through the caves reveals breathtaking views of the surrounding rice paddies and limestone cliffs.
- Mua Cave: A popular hiking destination, Mua Cave offers visitors the chance to climb to the top for panoramic views of the rice fields and the Ngo Dong River. The hike consists of about 500 steps and is particularly beautiful at sunset.
- Hoa Lu: The first capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu features ancient temples rich in history. Visitors can explore the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties and learn about Vietnam’s early monarchy.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest pagoda complex in Vietnam, Bai Dinh is known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere. The site features numerous statues, a giant bronze Buddha, and beautiful gardens.
- Van Long Natural Reserve: An ecological reserve with pristine landscapes, Van Long is ideal for nature lovers. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered Delacour’s langur, and offers scenic boat rides through tranquil waters.
7. Cuisine in Ninh Binh and Famous Restaurants
Ninh Binh is not only famous for its beautiful scenery but also for its unique cuisine. Here are some must-try local dishes:
- Mountain Goat: A specialty of Ninh Binh, often prepared in various dishes such as grilled goat, goat stew, or goat stir-fry. The meat is tender and flavorful, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Fried Rice: A local delicacy made from sticky rice, known for its crispy texture, often served with fish or meat. The dish is simple yet delicious, showcasing the flavors of the region.
- Hill Chicken: Naturally raised chicken, known for its firm and flavorful meat, typically served boiled or grilled. This dish is often accompanied by dipping sauces and local herbs.


Famous Restaurants in Ninh Binh
- Chinh Thu Restaurant: Known for its goat dishes and fried rice, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and friendly service.
- Dung Pho Nui Restaurant: Specializes in local dishes and fresh seafood, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
- Ba Cua Restaurant: A great place to enjoy chicken and fish dishes, known for its fresh ingredients and traditional flavors.
- Tam Gia Trang Restaurant: Offers a spacious dining area and a diverse menu, perfect for families and groups.
- Thang Long Restaurant: Known for traditional Vietnamese cuisine, this restaurant provides a variety of local specialties.
- Anh Dzung Restaurant: Famous for fresh ingredients and attentive service, this restaurant is a favorite among tourists seeking authentic flavors.
The one-day tour to Ninh Binh from Hanoi is a wonderful opportunity to explore the unique beauty and culture of this region. With exciting activities, famous attractions, and rich culinary experiences, this trip promises to create lasting memories. Don’t miss the chance to discover Ninh Binh from Hanoi in your travel itinerary!