Exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, cruising scenic Tam Coc, and scaling Mua Cave – this Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi promises an unforgettable experience. At just $58.83 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to learn about Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. With a buffet lunch and guided bicycle ride through traditional villages, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s cultural treasures. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this Ninh Binh adventure is sure to leave you captivated.
Key Points
- A full-day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, including round-trip transportation, buffet lunch, bamboo boat ride, bicycle rental, and an English-speaking guide.
- Explore the historical sites of the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties in Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
- Cycle through a traditional village, immersing in the local culture and witnessing the countryside’s scenic views.
- Climb Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain to enjoy panoramic vistas and discover ancient Buddhist shrines and pagodas.
- The tour offers a small group size and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Ninh Binh Day Trip offers a comprehensive one-day excursion from Hanoi, priced at $58.83 per person.
A comprehensive one-day excursion from Hanoi, priced at $58.83 per person.
With a small group limited to 14 participants, the tour lasts the entire day.
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, a bamboo boat ride, bicycle rental, and an English-speaking guide.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water, as smoking is prohibited during the tour.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Ninh Binh
Itinerary Highlights
The Ninh Binh Day Trip offers an array of captivating highlights. Visitors begin with a pickup from Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, and embark on a journey to the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu. Here, they explore the historical sites under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. The tour then transitions to a cycling adventure through a traditional village, allowing guests to enjoy local life. A buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant in Ninh Binh follows, before a boat trip in Tam Coc, known as "Ha Long Bay on land." The day culminates with a visit to Mua Cave and a climb up Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views.
| Highlight | Description |
| — | — |
| Hoa Lu | Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam |
| Cycling Tour | Discover local life in a traditional village |
| Tam Coc | Experience the "Ha Long Bay on land" |
| Mua Cave | Climb 500 steps for stunning vistas |
Exploring the Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu
Visitors start their exploration of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, to uncover the region’s rich history.
They’ll discover the remnants of the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties that ruled from the 10th to 11th centuries. The tour guide shares insights about the architectural wonders and significance of the ancient temples and palace ruins.
Tourists can envision the grandeur of the former imperial city and imagine the daily life of its inhabitants centuries ago.
This historical site offers a window into Vietnam’s storied past, allowing visitors to connect with the country’s deep-rooted cultural heritage.
Cycling Through a Traditional Village
What better way to take in local culture than by cycling through a traditional village?
The tour takes participants on a leisurely ride through the countryside, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. Riders will witness rice paddies, water buffaloes, and quaint homes.
Along the way, the guide provides insights into the village’s history and customs. This intimate experience allows travelers to connect with the land and people in a way that traditional sightseeing cannot.
An intimate experience that allows travelers to connect with the land and people in a way traditional sightseeing cannot.
The cycling segment promises an authentic and memorable addition to the Ninh Binh day trip.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPicturesque Boat Trip in Tam Coc
Why not begin the boat trip in Tam Coc, known as the "Ha Long Bay on land"?
The serene, picturesque landscapes unfold as you glide along the calm waters aboard a traditional bamboo boat. Limestone cliffs tower overhead, while rice paddies and lush greenery line the banks.
It’s an opportunity to learn about the tranquil beauty of northern Vietnam. The gentle rowing of the boat and the surrounding natural wonders create a mesmerizing experience.
This boat trip is a highlight of the Ninh Binh day tour, allowing you to witness the stunning karst formations up close.
Ready to pedal more of Ninh Binh? More cycling tours we recommend
Climbing Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain
After the serene boat ride through Tam Coc’s picturesque landscape, it’s time to tackle the challenge of climbing Mua Cave and Lying Dragon Mountain.
This part of the tour offers:
-
Ascending nearly 500 steps to reach the top of Mua Cave for stunning panoramic views
-
Admiring the iconic Lying Dragon Mountain formation
-
Discovering ancient Buddhist shrines and pagodas within the cave
-
Capturing breathtaking photos from the vantage point atop the mountain
-
Experiencing a sense of accomplishment from conquering the steep climb
While strenuous, this leg of the tour provides unparalleled vistas and a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant in Ninh Binh, a bamboo boat ride, bicycle rental, and an English-speaking guide.
Round-trip transportation, buffet lunch at a 5-star restaurant, bamboo boat ride, bicycle rental, and an English-speaking guide are included in the tour.
However, gratuities and personal expenses aren’t included.
The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or those unable to ride a bike. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes for walking and cycling, and to stay hydrated.
Smoking is prohibited during the tour.
Important Information and Recommendations
Although the Ninh Binh Day Trip offers a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural and cultural attractions, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Participants should consider the following important information and recommendations:
-
Not recommended for people with back problems or those unable to ride a bicycle.
-
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and cycling.
-
Stay hydrated by bringing water.
-
Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
-
Smoking is prohibited during the tour.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable Ninh Binh adventure.
Since You Asked
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions mentioned for this tour. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, as long as they are able to meet the physical requirements of cycling and climbing.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?
There’s no mention of an option to upgrade to a private tour. The tour is offered as a small group activity limited to 14 participants. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any available private tour options.
Can I Bring My Own Bicycle Instead of Renting One?
Bringing your own bicycle is generally not allowed on this tour. The tour operator provides bicycle rental as part of the package. Using the provided bicycles helps ensure a consistent experience for all participants on the cycling portion of the tour.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket for the Boat Ride?
No, you don’t need to bring your own life jacket. The tour provides life jackets for the bamboo boat ride. All necessary equipment, including the bicycle, is included in the tour price.
Is There a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option Available?
Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian or halal meal option. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary requirements when booking to ensure appropriate accommodations are made for their buffet lunch.
Final Words
The Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi offers an immersive cultural experience for $58.83 per person. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoy a scenic boat ride in Tam Coc, and challenge themselves with a climb up Mua Cave. With a small group and English-speaking guide, travelers can explore Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty during this full-day tour.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Lunch Experiences in Ninh Binh
- From Hanoi: Ninh Binh 1 Day, Bai Dinh-Trang An, Buffet Lunch
- From Ha Noi: Bai Dinh Trang An Ninh Binh Tour Full Day Lunch
- From Ninh Binh: Cuc Phuong National Park Day Trip With Lunch
- Hanoi: Trang An, Hoa Lư and Mua Cave 1-Day Trip With Lunch
- From Hanoi: Hoa Lu – Trang An-Mua Cave With Buffet Lunch
- From Ninh Binh: Longest Day Trip- Trang An, Mua Cave, Lunch
More Cycling Tours in Ninh Binh
- Hanoi:Ninh Binh-Trang An-Mua Cave-Hoa Lu&Cycling BEST SELLER
- From Hanoi: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Cave & Cycling in Ninh Binh
- HA NOI: EXPLORE HOA LU – CYCLING – TRANG AN 1 DAY TRIP
- EXPERIENCE HOA LU – TAM COC – CYCLING DAY TOUR
- Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu – Trang An – Cycling & Boat Trip 1 Day
- Hoa Lu-Tam Coc-Mua Cave -Bich Dong Pagoda-Cycling From NBINH
More Tour Reviews in Ninh Binh
- Ninh Binh Jeep Tours From Hanoi: JEEP – BOAT – DAILY LIFE
- Private Day Trip To Cuc Phuong Van Long/Guide/Lunch/Car/Meal
- Hanoi: Ninh Binh Private Tour Hoa Lu – Trang an – Mua Cave
- Private Cuc Phuong National Park Day Tour With Female Guide
- NYNA Travel: 5D4N Hanoi – Quang Phu Cau – Ninh Binh – Halong
- From Hanoi: 3-Day Sapa, Fansipan, Ninh Binh Tour With Meals
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ninh Binh we have recnetly reviewed
- Ninh Binh and Cuc Phuong National Park 2-Day Private Tour
- From Ninh Binh Luxury Cruise Lan Ha Bay, 2-3Days Kayaking
- From Hanoi: Ninh Binh 2 Days 1 Night Tour
- NINH BINH 2D1N: HOA LU-TAM COC – MUA CAVE – BAI DINH – TRANG AN
- Ninh Binh Private Adventure: Hoa Lu & Tam Coc
- From Ninh Binh : Bai Tu Long Bay 2-3 Days Garden Bay Cruise
- [Private] Ninh Binh Day Trip Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave
- QUANG PHU CAU INCENSE VILLAGE WITH BOAT TRIP OR PAGODA
- Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park 2-Day With Female Guide
- Ninh Binh Trang An, Mua Cave, Bai Dinh Tour
- From Hanoi: Private Car to Incense Village & Ninh Binh 1-day
- Ninh Binh : Private Jeep Tour Hoa Lu , Trang An, Mua Cave