1. Overview
Ninh Binh is a province located in the southernmost region of the Red River Delta, a place of cultural and economic interference between the Red River basin and the Ma River basin and between the Northern Delta and the Northwestern mountains and forests. Ninh Binh is blessed by nature with many beautiful and rich landscapes recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site, making it a potential northern tourist area loved by many domestic and foreign tourists. Everyone who comes to Ninh Binh cannot help but be amazed by the beauty of famous landscapes and a variety of delicious dishes.
2. How many days to spend in Ninh Binh—one, two, or three days?
How many days is enough to explore Ninh Binh—one, two, or three days? Most tourists book day trips to Ninh Binh from Hanoi; some stay overnight in Ninh Binh or even spend two nights there. Depending on how much time you have for your vacation, a one-, two-, or three-day trip to Ninh Binh is suitable for everyone. There are many great places to visit, such as Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu ancient capital, Trang An tourist area, Cuc Phuong national park, etc. Overall, the length of your stay in Ninh Binh will depend on your preferences and itinerary, but 2-3 days is a good starting point to explore Ninh Binh. If you have more time, you can spend more than 3 days exploring and experiencing Ninh Binh.
A 2-day trip in Ninh Binh is suitable for those who want to explore the main attractions, while a 3-day itinerary is more suitable for those who want to add some activities and sightseeing places or want to immerse themselves in the local culture and cuisine.
2.1. Spend in Ninh Binh for 1 days
You can stay in Ninh Binh for one day, but it will only allow you to visit one or two attractions, such as Tam Coc or Trang An. You can explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Ninh Binh on a day trip here.
If you only have one day in Ninh Binh, you should visit Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Bich Dong tourist areas, or you can visit Bai Dinh Chiem pagoda and Trang An tourist area for your day trip. Coming to these places, you will be marked by their heroic history and majestic landscapes.
2.2. Spend in Ninh Binh for 2 days
After spending two days in Ninh Binh, you can focus on visiting main attractions such as Tam Coc, Trang An, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. On the first day, you can visit Tam Coc, famous for its beautiful limestone mountain formations, and take a boat ride through the caves. After that, you can go to Trang An to explore the beautiful scenery and take a boat across the river. On the second day, you can visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, which is the largest temple complex in Southeast Asia and is home to many beautiful temples and shrines. You can also visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties.
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2.2. Spend in Ninh Binh for 3 days
With 3 days in Ninh Binh, you can add some activities and places to visit. On day three, you might consider taking a day trip to nearby attractions like Cuc Phuong National Park or Van Long Nature Reserve. Additionally, you can spend the third day exploring Ninh Binh’s local culture and cuisine. You can visit local markets, try some traditional dishes like goat meat, and take a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes.
3. Where will you go in Ninh Binh?
To help you have the most complete trip to Ninh Binh, we suggest some famous destinations that you cannot miss while traveling in Ninh Binh:
3.1. Trang An tourist area
Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an impressive collection of large limestone cliffs covered with forest. In the entire area, you can find temples, dozens of valleys, and about 50 different caves.In the entire area, you can find temples, dozens of valleys, and about 50 different caves, especially Hang Mua. Hang Mua, Ninh Binh, has become an extremely impressive destination. At Hang Mua, you can conquer the top of Ngoa Long mountain by climbing 500 stone steps to get here. You will admire the unique and special natural scenery in Ninh Binh. The best way to enjoy the wonderful scenery of the entire Trang An tourist area is to take a boat to experience it.
- Ticket price: 10.25 USD/adult ticket, 6 people per boat; 4.92 USD/child ticket. If you hire an additional tour guide, it will cost 12.03 USD/tour.
3.2. Hoa Lu ancient capital
Hoa Lu was the ancient capital of the Dinh and Le dynasties, dating back to the 11th century. Buildings that still exist include the royal temple of Dinh Tien Hoang, which houses statues of Emperor Dinh Bo Linh and his sons. He was like the royal temple of the early Le period. Visitors will have the opportunity to see old items used by the royal family in ancient times.
- Ticket price: 0.82 USD/person
3.3. Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda is a large religious complex and the largest temple in Southeast Asia. With a campus of 5.39 square kilometers, there are 5,000 Buddha statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and dozens of Buddhist temples, each more luxurious than the other.
- Ticket price:
Electric car: 1.23 USD/person/turn.
Ticket to the Bell Tower: 2.03 USD/person.
3.4. Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist area
Tam Coc-Bich Dong tourist area is an equally famous stopover with a system of limestone caves and historical relics of the Tran dynasty. Tam Coc-Bich Dong tourist area has a natural area of 350.3 hectares, located in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu. You can see more about Tam Coc Ninh Binh’s exciting outdoor activities here.
- Ticket price:
Entrance ticket: 4.92 USD/person
Children under 1.4m: 2.46 USD/person
Ferry ticket price in Tam Coc: 6.15 USD/person (free for children under 3 years old).
See more:
3.5. Thung Nham Bird Garden
Thung Nham in Ninh Binh is also known as Thung Chim. This is the home of thousands of bird species. Traveling to Thung Nham Bird, you will be immersed in wild nature, enjoy the fresh air, and quietly listen to thousands of birds singing. Early morning and late afternoon (around dawn and dusk) are the times when most birds fly to the park. This is definitely the best time to visit, especially if it’s spring or summer.
- Ticket price:
Entrance ticket: 4.10 USD/person. Free for children under 0.8m in height.
Children’s height from 0.8m to 1.3m: 2.05 USD/person.
Boat ticket to visit the bird sanctuary: 0.82 USD/person
Tickets to visit Buddha Cave: 0.82 USD/person
3.6. Cuc Phuong National Park:
Cuc Phuong National Park is a well-preserved tropical forest with many hiking trails, prehistoric caves, and ancient trees. This is also a place with rich fauna.
- Ticket price:
Entrance fee: 2.46 USD/person
Students: 0.82 USD/person
Children: 0.41 USD/person
3.7. Phat Diem Cathedral
Located in the east of Ninh Binh City, Phat Diem Cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Vietnam. The church is Western-inspired and well worth a visit if you love this architecture. Ticket price: free to visit.
4. Some notes when you travel to Ninh Binh
Here is our advice for those who are planning to visit Ninh Binh and want to save time and money while getting the best experience possible:
When to visit: Ninh Binh is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April), when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is low. Avoid the rainy season (May to October), when heavy rains can affect outdoor activities.
Explore by bike: Consider renting a bike to explore Ninh Binh at your own pace. It offers flexibility and allows you to discover hidden gems and really take advantage of the stunning countryside.
River boating: Ninh Binh is known for its beautiful waterways, so don’t miss the chance to go boating. Whether it’s Tam Coc-Bich Dong or Trang An, these boat tours offer a unique perspective of the karst landscape and caves.
Ninh Binh is famous for its delicious dishes. Explore local markets and street eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
Homestay: Consider a homestay to experience the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse yourself in the authentic Vietnamese way of life. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with the community and learn about their traditions.
Bring cash: Although some places in Ninh Binh accept card payments, you should bring enough cash; otherwise, you will be subject to a 3% fee (or higher) when paying by card or even receiving money. There are a few ATMs, and they charge very high fees.
Bring water: This area can get very hot in the summer, especially if you enjoy hiking. Make sure to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
5. Conclusion
Ninh Binh, with its natural beauty and thousands of years of cultural and historical value, has become an increasingly attractive tourist destination. With the information shared above by Metta Voyage, we hope you spend appropriate time on your upcoming trip to Ninh Binh.
6. Contact us
Website: www.mettavoyage.com
Email: [email protected]
Hotline 24/7: + 84 989 383 572
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