Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on Land”, is located just two hours south of Hanoi and was one of the best surprises I’ve had during this trip. The region offers a wide variety of experiences to offer, from taking a traditional boat ride along the Trang An River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through small caves and limestone mountains, to cycling through rice fields and trekking in Vietnam’s oldest national park. This destination is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, which is exactly what I was looking for. To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve created a 3-day Ninh Binh itinerary based on my own experience. If you’re still deciding what to include in your trip, check out my guide to the best things to do in Ninh Binh, where I cover even more attractions and activities across the region.
3-Day Ninh Binh Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide for Nature Lovers
It was really difficult to decide what to include because there are so many beautiful places to visit and activities to enjoy in this region. So, here is a well-planned itinerary that is perfect for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Day 1 Ninh Binh Itinerary: Trang An Boat Ride, Mua Cave & Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Arrive at your accommodation as early as possible. We left Hanoi early in the morning and arrived in Ninh Binh around noon. If you’re spending a few days in the capital first, check out my 3-Day Hanoi Itinerary before continuing south. My suggestion is to have lunch at your hotel , as it will save you time. Settle in, take some time to explore your accommodation, and then choose between Trang An and Tam Coc. Personally, I chose Trang An, and it turned out to be the perfect decision.
If you’re still comparing attractions, take a look at my guide to the best things to do in Ninh Binh for a complete overview of the region’s highlights.
Trang An Boat Ride
Trang An Landscape Complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the highlights of Ninh Binh. This spectacular area takes you through limestone karts mountains covered with tropical forests, connected by caves. Along the route, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit several ancient temples nestled within landscape.
One of the best tips I can give you is to arrive a few hours before closing time. This way, you’ll avoid both the crowds and the intense midday heat. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water, a hat, and sunscreen, as they are essential, especially during the warmer months.
At the ticket office, you’ll be able to choose from three different boat routes, each offering a slightly different experience through the stunning karst landscape.
Route 1
Duration:Â 3 hours;
Route Details:Â 2 temples, one palace, one pagoda and 8 caves.
Route 2
Duration: 2-3 hours;
Route Details: 2 temples, one palace, 4 caves and Dia Linh Mountain and Pen Tower;
Highlights: Pen Tower, the filming location for the movie Kong: Skull Island.
Route 3
Duration: 3 hours;
Route Details: 2 temples, one palace, 3 caves and Dia Linh Mountain and Pen Tower;
Highlights: Pen Tower, the filming location for the movie Kong: Skull Island and Dot Cave which is the largest cave from all.
Useful Tips
- Tickets are purchased at the Trang An Departure Boat Ticket;
- Price: 11.4$;
- Open hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily;
- Duration: around 3-4h;
- Best time to visit: early in the morning or late . Avoid the midday as it’s very hot;
- What to wear: wear sunscreen, hut or sunglasses.
Mua Hill
The Mua Cave(Dragon Mountain) contains 500 stone steps and leads you to a viewpoint of the Ninh Binh. Mua Cave is often considered one of the absolute best things to do in Ninh Binh, thanks to its incredible panoramic views over the Tam Coc countryside. On the hill you’ll see a little pagoda and a massive dragon, known as the Lying Dragon Mountain.
Plan your hike so that you reach the top about 20 minutes before sunset. At that time, the site is usually less crowded. But you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking views.
Useful Tips
- Location: Mua Cave;
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM;
- Price: 100000 VND (approximately $4 USD) per adult. You’ll have to pay also for the parking spot;
- Best time to visit: the sunrise and sunset;
- What to wear: good shoes, hut, sunscreen, water bottle.
Hoa Lu Ancient Town
Enjoy an evening walk through Hoa Lu Ancient Town. After sunset, the town comes alive with colorful lights and a lively atmosphere. The illuminated bridge, and glowing lanterns floating along the water create a magical setting. It’s a great place to stroll around, take photos, and experience the charm of Ninh Binh at night.
Ninh Binh Travel Itinerary Day 1 – Quick Summary
- Arrive in Ninh Binh;
- Trang An Boat Ride;
- Mua Hill;
- Hoa Lu Ancient Town.
Day 2: Jungle Trekking in Vietnam’s Oldest National Park
Wake up early, enjoy a good breakfast at your hotel, and get ready for a day of adventure.
Cuc Phuong National Park
One of the most beautiful days on the 3-day Ninh Binh itinerary. I consider Cuc Phuong National Park a hidden gem in northern Vietnam, as Vietnam’s oldest national park and one of the country’s most important nature reserves, Cuc Phuong National park, is established in 1962. The area was populated by the Muong hill tribe, who lived in traditional stilt houses.
The park is home to a wonderfully rich ecosystem and jungle trekking trails where you may spot wildlife, including monkeys and a variety of bird species. Before setting off on your adventure, visit the Turtle Conservation Centre, the Botanical Garden, and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, where you’ll learn more about more species.
A 20-km paved road leads from the park entrance to its central area. One of the best ways to enjoy the park is by riding a scooter at your own pace. This way allows you to stop whenever you want to enjoy the scenery. Moreover, if you don’t have an eligible license or permit to ride a scooter, you can go on the road with a private car.
At the end of the road, you’ll find a hiking loop that takes you to the Cave of Prehistoric Man, an important archaeological site, and the Thousand-Year-Old Dang Tree, one of the park’s most impressive natural landmarks. For more nature experiences and hidden gems in the region, check out my guide to the best things to do in Ninh Binh.
Useful Tips
- More details about opening hours, tickets on Vietnam Airlines ;
- Location: here;
- Duration: it will take a time so prepare to stay at least half a day.
- What to wear: sunscreen, a hat, long pants, a blouse, and good shoes because the terrain is muddy.
- If you visit in April or May, it’s butterfly season.
Optional: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital of Vietnam
If you still have some time and energy left, considering visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the first capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. It is one of the most important historical sites in the region and offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s early history.
Useful Tips
- Location: here;
- Opening hours: 7am – 5pm daily;
- Price: 20000 VND.
Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Town
Head back to the hearth of Hoa Lu Ancient Town and enjoy its charming atmosphere after sunset. As night falls, the streets come alive with colorful lights, while traditional boats on the river are beautifully decorated with glowing lanterns.
Wander through the streets and enjoy the magical atmosphere created by hundreds of colorful lanterns. Moreover, whether you choose to take a boat ride or simply walk around and enjoy the views, the town is a beautiful place to spend the evening and experience a different side of Ninh Binh.
Ninh Binh Travel Itinerary Day 2 – Quick Summary
- Cuc Phuong National Park;
- Optional: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital of Vietnam;
- Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Town.
Day 3: Rice Fields, Ancient Temples & Scenic Views
Another highlight of the trip is exploring the area by bicycle. Cycling through rice fields around Tam Coc is one of the best ways to experience the peaceful countryside and admire the karts mountains that make Ninh Binh so unique.
Along the way, you’ll pass several temples and pagodas nestled between the mountains. I recommend starting early in the morning.
Your first stop can be Thai Vi Temple, which offers free entry. During our visit, we had the opportunity to listen to traditional Vietnamese music, making the experience even more special.
Bich Ding Pagoda
One of the most famous landmarks in Ninh Binh, Bich Dong Pagoda dates back to 1428. And it is nestled into the slopes of Ngu Nhac Mountain. Today, it remains one of the region’s most important spiritual sites, attracting visitors from all over the world.
What makes this pagoda particularly unique is that some of its temples are tucked away inside a natural cave. As you explore the pagoda, you’ll discover a peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. On the top you will be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the nearby area.
Useful Tips
- Location: here;
- Opening hours: 7:30 am–4:30 pm;
- Price: entrance free;
- Go by bicycle to Bich Ding Pagoda.
Optional: Thung Nham Bird Garden & Caves
Thung Nham Bird Garden is a great destination for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers. Located a little farther from Bich Dong Pagoda, it can be easily be reached by bicycle.
Useful Tips
- Location: Thung Nham Bird Garden;
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the summer, and 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM in the winter;
- Price: 150000 VND per ticket;
- Best time to visit: arrive late in the afternoon around 4:30-5:00 PM;
- What to wear: wear sunscreen, hut, sunglasses, bottle of water;
- When is the best time of the year: September to April;
- You can rent a bike around Van Lam Pier.
It gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace. Along the way, you can also explore several caves: Vai Gioi Cave, Mermaid Cave, and Hang But Hien or head directly to the Bird Valley.
Ninh Binh Travel Itinerary Day 3 – Quick Summary
- Cycling through Rice Fields around Tam Coc;
- Bich Ding Pagoda;
- Optional: Thung Nham Bird Garden & Caves;
- Departure to the next destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
It should be a 2-3 hours drive. If you book through your hotel, you’ll have a stop at gas station.
There are several ways to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Before taking the decision, review all the available options and take the most suitable for you:
– Ask your accommodation in Hanoi to help you book a transfer. This is often the easiest option;
– Ask your hotel in Ninh Binh to arrange transportation for you. Many hotels can organize a private car or a shared minivan;
– Book a private car yourself through the Grab app;
– Take a train;
– Take a bus.
The train and bus options are cheaper, but in our opinion, the extra comfort and convenience of a private transfer were worth it. We chose to have our hotel in Hanoi arrange a minivan directly to our hotel in Ninh Binh.
The perfect way to enjoy the region is spending 3 days in Ninh Binh. You can also visit in 1 or 2 days. But you won’t have so much time to explore all the important highlights.
I suggest to stay near the Tam Coc River or Mua Hill. They are closer to all the region’s main attractions.
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from March to May and from September to December. The weather is more pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Yes, Ninh Binh is generally considered very safe for tourists. However, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and watch out for common issues such as taxi scams and pickpocketing.
Absolutely!! Don’t miss it. Ninh Binh was one of my favorite destinations in Vietnam, and I would love to return one day to explore it more deeply.
If you would like to see the best things to do in Hanoi and Ninh Binh, check these articles:
– 3-Day Hanoi Itinerary: Ultimate Guide for First-Timers;
– Best Things To Do In Hanoi: Complete Travel Guide For First-Time Visitors;
– Best Things To Do In Ninh Binh: Complete Travel Guide For First-Time Visitors.
Final Thoughts on This 3-Day Ninh Binh Itinerary
Ninh Binh has been one of my favorite destinations in Vietnam and one of the biggest highlights of my trip. With its spectacular limestone mountains, peaceful rice fields, scenic boat rides, and excellent hiking opportunities, it’s perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers. One of the things I really enjoyed most was the freedom to explore the countryside by scooter and bicycle, allowing me to discover the place on my own pace.
I hope this 3-day Ninh Binh itinerary helps you plan a beautiful trip and inspires you to experience everything this unique region has to offer. If you’re looking for more ideas, be sure to check out my guide to the best things to do in Ninh Binh and my roundup of the best things to do in Hanoi to make the most of your time in northern Vietnam.
