Full Day Trip From Hanoi To Hoa Lu – Trang An – Biking

Exploring the rich heritage and natural wonders of northern Vietnam, this full-day excursion from Hanoi promises an immersive experience. Delving into the historical significance of Hoa Lu’s ancient citadel, travelers will then embark on a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Ninh Binh. The highlight, however, lies in the serene Trang An Grottoes, where boat tours offer a unique opportunity to marvel at the stunning karst formations and tranquil rivers. Complementing the adventure, a buffet lunch showcases the unique flavors of the local Ninh Binh cuisine, providing an authentic taste of the region. With an intriguing blend of history, nature, and culinary delights, this excursion promises to immerse visitors in the captivating essence of northern Vietnam.

Key Points

• This full-day trip from Hanoi takes visitors to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, followed by a leisurely bike ride through the scenic countryside of Ninh Binh.
• The itinerary includes a boat tour through the breathtaking Trang An Grottoes, where travelers can marvel at the stunning karst formations and tranquil rivers.
• Lunch at the Ninh Binh Heritage restaurant allows participants to taste the unique flavors of the local cuisine, such as Banh Cuon and Bun Cha.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and bottled water, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the region.
• The trip offers a contrast to the bustling streets of Hanoi, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and rural charm of northern Vietnam.

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Overview

This full day trip from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and biking costs from $36.48 per person and lasts for 1 day, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary includes visiting the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, leisurely cycling on rural roads, enjoying a buffet lunch at the Ninh Binh Heritage restaurant, and taking a traditional sampan boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes.

Highlights of the trip are exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the boat ride at Trang An, the bike tour through picturesque landscapes, and tasting the local Ninh Binh cuisine.

The package includes pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and bottled water.

Itinerary Details

The day begins with a punctual 07:30-08:00 hotel pick-up in Hanoi, followed by a drive to the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.

Travelers will explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple.

After the temple visits, the group embarks on a leisurely bike ride along picturesque rural roads.

At 12:15, they’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at the Ninh Binh Heritage restaurant.

The afternoon is dedicated to the stunning Trang An Grottoes, where guests will board traditional sampans and float through the cave systems.

The excursion wraps up around 18:00-18:20 with a drop-off back at the hotel or accommodation in Hanoi.

Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel

Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, the former capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in the 10th century, serves as the first stop on this captivating day trip.

Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, which offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history.

The citadel’s impressive fortified walls and ancient architecture transport travelers back in time, allowing them to imagine the grandeur of the site’s heyday.

As the group wanders through the historic grounds, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the citadel’s significance and the lives of the kings who ruled from this strategic location nestled among the limestone cliffs.

Leisure Cycling

After exploring the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, visitors embark on a leisurely cycling tour through the picturesque rural landscapes surrounding Ninh Binh.

The bike ride offers a chance to take in the tranquil countryside, with its winding roads, lush rice paddies, and quaint villages. Cycling at a relaxed pace, travelers can soak in the serene atmosphere and capture stunning views of the limestone karsts that dot the horizon.

This gentle bike tour is a refreshing contrast to the bustling streets of Hanoi, allowing visitors to connect with the natural beauty and rural charm of the Ninh Binh region.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Trang An Grottoes

Following the visit to the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, visitors then proceed to the captivating Trang An Grottoes, where they embark on a traditional sampan boat journey to explore the serene, cave-riddled landscape.

Gliding peacefully through the grottoes, guests marvel at the stunning karst formations, tranquil rivers, and lush greenery surrounding them. The 2-hour boat ride takes them through nine interconnected caves, each offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural wonders.

This serene excursion allows travelers to fully enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of northern Vietnam, providing a perfect contrast to the earlier exploration of the historic Hoa Lu site.

Ninh Binh’s Local Cuisines

The tour includes a lunch at the Ninh Binh Heritage restaurant, where travelers can savor the local culinary delights of the region. The menu features a variety of dishes that showcase the unique flavors of Ninh Binh. From the fragrant and aromatic Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls) to the savory and hearty Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), the lunch provides an authentic taste of the local cuisine.

Dish	Description	Ingredients
Banh Cuon	Steamed rice rolls	Rice flour, pork, mushrooms, shallots
Bun Cha	Grilled pork with vermicelli	Pork, vermicelli, fish sauce, herbs
Nem Chua	Fermented pork sausage	Pork, rice, garlic, chili

This culinary experience allows visitors to enjoy the rich gastronomic heritage of Ninh Binh, making the day trip even more memorable.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off services, an English-speaking guide, a buffet lunch, entrance fees, and two bottles of water per person. This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for the travelers.

The English-speaking guide provides valuable insights and information about the destinations, enhancing the cultural and historical understanding of the trip.

The buffet lunch offers a chance to savor the local flavors of Ninh Binh, while the included entrance fees cover the costs of accessing the key sights.

The two bottles of water per person help keep travelers hydrated throughout the day’s activities.

Exclusions

Apart from the comprehensive inclusions, there are some exclusions in this tour package.

Beverages, travel insurance, and tips for the guide and personal expenses aren’t covered by the tour price. Travelers should bring their own drinks and snacks to enjoy during the day.

It’s also recommended to purchase travel insurance prior to the trip to protect against any unforeseen circumstances. Plus, while tips for the guide aren’t mandatory, it’s customary to provide a small gratuity for good service.

Knowing these exclusions upfront allows travelers to budget accordingly and ensure a seamless and enjoyable full-day excursion from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and the biking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s average group size is not explicitly stated in the overview. However, group tours typically range from small intimate groups to larger bus tours, allowing for a personalized experience while accommodating a variety of group sizes.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private tour. Customers can request a private tour for an additional fee, which provides a more personalized experience with a private guide and vehicle.

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle for the Cycling Portion?

No, the tour does not allow participants to bring their own bicycles. The tour provides bicycles for the cycling portion of the trip. Bringing your own bike would not be feasible or permitted on this group tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, the activities may not be suitable for very young children, and their safety and comfort should be considered.

How Accessible Are the Sites for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

The sites on this tour have some accessibility challenges. While the Hoa Lu ancient citadel has paved paths, the Trang An boat ride and biking may be difficult for those with mobility issues. The tour company can accommodate guests with advance notice.

Recap

This full-day tour from Hanoi provides an immersive experience in the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh.

Visitors can explore the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, cycle through picturesque rural landscapes, and marvel at the serene Trang An Grottoes, while also indulging in the unique flavors of the local Ninh Binh cuisine.

It’s an excellent way to discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of this captivating region.

You can check if your dates are available here: