Ninh Binh Travel Guide: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
Are you planning a trip to Vietnam? Don’t miss Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land”. Known for its spectacular limestone landscapes, peaceful rice paddies, and ancient temples, Ninh Binh has become one of Vietnam’s top destinations for nature lovers and adventurers alike. In this guide, you’ll discover the best things to do in Ninh Binh, including must-visit spots like Trang An, Hang Mua Viewpoint, and Tam Coc.
📍 Where is Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh is located about 90 km south of Hanoi, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from the capital city. You can easily get here by train, bus, or motorbike.
🚀 How to Get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi
- By train: 2.5 hours, scenic and comfortable.
- By bus/limousine van: 2 hours, most convenient.
By motorbike: 2-3 hours, ideal for adventurous travelers (search “motorbike from Hanoi to Ninh Binh”).
🌿 Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
- Dry season (November – April): Cool and pleasant, ideal for hiking & sightseeing.
- Wet season (May – October): Lush landscapes and vibrant green rice fields.
Pro tip: May-June is the best time to see golden rice fields in Tam Coc & Trang An.
🌟 Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Ninh Binh (2025)
Here are the absolute must-visit attractions in Ninh Binh that you shouldn’t miss.
1️⃣ Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An offers the most spectacular boat ride in Ninh Binh. Glide through emerald rivers, pass through limestone caves, and explore ancient temples hidden in the mountains.
🚣 Highlights:
- Visit caves like Hang Sang (Light Cave) & Hang Toi (Dark Cave)
- Stop by the iconic “Kong: Skull Island” filming site
- Gorgeous scenery throughout the boat trip
Time needed: 2-3 hours Tips: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
2️⃣ Hang Mua Viewpoint (Mua Cave)
This is the most famous viewpoint in Ninh Binh for panoramic photos. Climb over 500 stone steps to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain for breathtaking views of Tam Coc rice fields and the river below.
📸 Why Visit:
- Unreal views during sunrise or sunset
- Iconic dragon statue at the summit
- The most Instagrammable spot in Ninh Binh!
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours Tips: Wear comfy shoes; the climb is steep but worth it.
3️⃣ Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Often called “Halong Bay on land”, Tam Coc is a peaceful area famous for its riverboat rides through lush rice paddies and limestone caves.
🚣 Highlights:
- Boat ride through three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba
- Visit the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda nestled on the mountainside
- Magical scenery during the rice harvest season (May-June)
Time needed: 2-3 hours Tips: Visit early morning for the most relaxing boat trip.
4️⃣ Am Tien Cave (Tuyet Tinh Coc) – Ninh Binh’s Hidden Gem
Nicknamed “The Hidden Heaven” or “Tuyet Tinh Coc”, this spot is lesser-known but incredibly serene. It features a stunning jade-green lake surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, perfect for peaceful walks and photos.
🌸 Why Visit:
- Peaceful, quiet, fewer tourists
- Unique historical significance linked to Vietnam’s ancient kings
- Crystal-clear waters and Instagram-worthy views
Time needed: 1-1.5 hours Tips: Combine this with a visit to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital nearby.
5️⃣ Bai Dinh Pagoda – Vietnam’s Largest Buddhist Complex
Explore Vietnam’s largest pagoda complex featuring massive Buddha statues, beautiful courtyards, and long corridors filled with stone-carved arhats.
🙏 Highlights:
- Towering bronze Buddha statues
- The longest Arhat corridor in Asia
- Amazing views from the pagoda’s bell tower
Time needed: 2-3 hours Tips: Consider using the electric shuttle service (it’s huge!).
🏡 Where to Stay in Ninh Binh
Popular areas for travelers:
- Tam Coc: Lively area with many restaurants & accommodations
- Trang An: Peaceful countryside with homestays
Ninh Binh City: Convenient for transport but less scenic
🚴♂️ Top Experiences in Ninh Binh
- Rent a motorbike and explore the countryside at your own pace.
- Go for hikes at Hang Mua or Cuc Phuong National Park.
Try a Ninh Binh motorbike loop for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
📅 Sample 2-Day Ninh Binh Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Trang An boat tour
- Afternoon: Bai Dinh Pagoda
- Evening: Relax at your homestay
Day 2:
- Morning: Hang Mua Viewpoint
- Afternoon: Tam Coc boat trip & Bich Dong Pagoda
- Late afternoon: Am Tien Cave
✅ Final Thoughts: Is Ninh Binh Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you’re into nature, photography, history, or adventure, Ninh Binh offers a perfect mix of experiences. It’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Vietnam, often overlooked by many tourists who focus only on Halong Bay or Sapa.
And don’t forget — Tuan Motorbikes Rental is always ready to provide high-quality motorbikes for your adventure, not just in Ninh Binh but across Vietnam!
