Ninh Binh is still a hidden gem in Vietnam not visited by many. It offers stunning landscapes full of limestone karsts, enchanting caves, serene rice fields and peaceful boat rides. Come and enjoy the laid back vibe of this beautiful countryside. These are the most amazing things to do in Ninh Binh.
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How to get to Ninh Binh
You can get to Ninh Binh by train or bus. These are the closest public transport locations:
Traveling by plane
The closest airport is Ninh Binh located in Hanoi. That’s why you should combine your trip with a visit to Hanoi. There are direct flights from every other major city in Vietnam. You can get your plane tickets at skyscanner.com. To get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, follow our instructions you can find further down.
Traveling by bus or train
You can find bus or train to Ninh Binh from most of the tourist destinations around. Check 12go.asia for bus timetables and prices. You should also ask around at your accommodation or booking offices nearby. Most places in Vietnam will help you organise the transport to your next destinations. It might even be cheaper than booking online. Bus from Hanoi takes 2 hours.
How to get to Tam Coc from Ninh Binh
Getting to Tam Coc from Ninh Binh is easy. We recommend avoiding a hassle and using Grab. You can also find taxis in the city. Make sure to first check prices on Grab before using a taxi. There is also a local bus but that doesn’t run very often so I wouldn’t count on it. When booking your ticket (especially when coming from Hanoi) ask if the bus will take you directly to Tam Coc. There are many direct buses between Hanoi and Tam Coc daily.
Best time to visit Ninh Binh
Best time to visit Ninh Binh is between November and April. That’s when the weather is cool and dry, without any rain. The monsoon season is between May and October. If you plan to visit other destinations, you can find a summary of best time to travel around Vietnam here. If you want to witness yellow rice fields come at the end of May or beginning of June.
How to get around Tam Coc
We recommend using bicycle for the nearby attractions and renting a scooter for a day when you want to go further.
- Motorbike – the bike rental starts from only 150 000 VND per day. There is many rentals around the town.
- Bicycle – the best way to discover the area! Cycling around those lovely rice fields with huge limestones above you is just amazing! You can rent a bicycle for around 50.000VND.
5 Things to do in Ninh Binh
If you book any of the tours below, we will earn a small comission. You still pay the same.
1. Tam Coc boat tour
Price: 150 000VND for a boat, 120 000VND for each person, 60 000VND for kids (max. 2 people per boat)
Opening hours: 7:30 – 17:00
Time to visit: 2 hour
There is no better way to experience the beauty of Tam Coc than on a boat tour. Glide along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts and lush green scenery. The boat tour will take you through three caves and along the ricefields. The guides are so skilled they actually row the boat with feet. It is an experience you cannot miss when in Tam Coc.
2. Trang An boat tour
Price: 200 000 VND per person (4 people per boat)
Opening hours: 7:30 – 17:00
Time to visit: 3 hours
Trang An boat tour is similar to Tam Coc one. Boat takes you along the river through many rice fields. You will visit multiple caves and a few temples. Trang An gives you 3 different routes to choose from. Do not forget to bring water and food since it’s gonna take 3 hours. And remember a hat or a sunscree. There will be no shade to hide in.
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3. Mua cave
Price: 100 000 VND + parking
Opening hours: 06:00 – 18:00
Time to visit: 1 hour
Mua Cave is the best viewpoint in the area. It actually offers views of the river section surrounded by rice fileds where you can go on a boat tour. It is favorite sunset spot among tourists. Do not expect to have this place to yourself. There is a beautiful area before you start you ascent – lake, restaurants, waterfall. There’s a lot of stairs leading to the top. Make sure to have good shoes.
4. Bich Dong pagoda
Price: free, 30 000 VND parking (unless you park a bit further)
Opening hours: anytime
Time to visit: 1 hour
Bich Dong pagoda is beautiful temple surrounded by incredible nature. Even the way there is worth it. Nestled amidst the lush surroundings, this ancient pagoda offers a peaceful vibe and a chance to connect with Vietnamese culture. You can climb the stairs all the way to the top for great views. There is a short section leading through the mounatin itself via short tunnel. In this tunnel you will also find a few statues and shrines. It’s a place you simply cannot skip.
5. Cycle around the countryside
There is no better way than to discover the countryside on a bicycle. You will be surrounded by stunning rice fields and majestic limestone hills. We used bicycle during the whole stay here! We recommend cycling around this route on the way to Bich Dong pagoda. It’s a dirt road so it might be a bit shaky. You will find a few cute little cafes here right under the cliffs. No better way to enjoy a nice cup of coffee.
Where to stay
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Where to eat in Tam Coc
- Xanh cafe – cozy green cafe with the best coconut coffe and friendly family
- Family restaurant – the best duck in town as well as other Vietnamese meals
- Aroma Indian – delicious Indian cuisine
- Pizza Monalisa – amazing fire wood pizza and cocktails for good prices
