• ⟟ Location:

    Northern Vietnam

  • ◴ Best Time:

    February–April

  • ೱ Stay:

    3-4 days

  • <-> Hanoi

    2 hr drive

Why Visit Ninh Binh, Vietnam?

Ninh Binh is where dramatic limestone mountains rise above peaceful rivers, rice fields and ancient temples. Take a boat through Trang An, cycle between quiet villages, climb to the famous Hang Mua viewpoint and discover some of Northern Vietnam’s most beautiful scenery. It feels worlds away from Hanoi, yet it’s close enough to make an easy addition to your trip.

Plan Your Trip

  • ✓⃝

    LIMESTONE MOUNTAINS
    & RIVER VALLEYS

  • ☆

    TEMPLES, PAGODAS & ANCIENT HISTORY

  • ♡

    SCENIC BOAT TRIPS & CAVES

  • 𖧧

    RICE FIELDS & COUNTRYSIDE LIFE

My Favourite Things to Do in Ninh Binh

From drifting between limestone mountains to cycling through the countryside and climbing to incredible viewpoints, these are three experiences I think are genuinely worth making time for.

Save 10% on Klook with my code PXRMIIDX

More Recommendations in the Hanoi Guide

  • Best of Ninh Binh Day Tour

    The easiest way to see Ninh Binh’s biggest highlights in one day, combining Hoa Lu, Trang An, Tam Coc and Hang Mua. My pick if you only have one day and want to experience as much as possible.

    Check the Day Tour on Klook 

  • Hoa Lu, Trang An & Incense Village

    Combine Ninh Binh’s ancient capital and spectacular Trang An boat ride with a visit to colourful Quang Phu Cau Incense Village. A great choice if you want something a little different from the classic Ninh Binh day tour.

    Check the Tour on Klook 

  • Private Transfer from Hanoi

    Skip the group tour and travel to Ninh Binh at your own pace with a private, air-conditioned transfer from Hanoi. The better option if you’re following my Ninh Binh itinerary and staying for a few days.

    Book a Private Transfer 
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More Recommendations in the Hanoi Guide

The Ninh Binh Guide Is Coming ♡

I’m currently curating the places, experiences and local tips I’d genuinely recommend for exploring Ninh Binh.

Be the first to know when the complete Ninh Binh Travel Guide & Itinerary launches.

Did You Know?

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    • Trang An is recognised by UNESCO for both its spectacular natural landscape and its cultural significance.
    • Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and early 11th centuries.
    • Ninh Binh is often nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on land” because of its dramatic limestone karst scenery.
    • Trang An’s famous boat journeys weave between limestone mountains, caves and historic temples.
    • Hang Mua is famous for its steep staircase and panoramic views across the Tam Coc countryside.
    • Despite being an easy trip from Hanoi, staying overnight lets you experience Ninh Binh after many day-trippers have left.
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Pair Your Ninh Binh Trip With Hanoi

Around two hours away, Hanoi makes the natural partner to Ninh Binh. Explore the Old Quarter, street food, hidden cafés, temples and museums before swapping the energy of the capital for Ninh Binh’s peaceful countryside.

Discover Hanoi

Continue North to Ha Giang

For an even bigger dose of Northern Vietnam scenery, continue towards Ha Giang. Famous for dramatic mountain passes, valleys and remote villages, it offers a completely different landscape from Ninh Binh and makes an incredible addition to a longer Northern Vietnam itinerary.

Discover Ha Giang