Your Guide to Ninh Binh, Vietnam: What to Do!

Let’s talk about Ninh Binh. This spot has it all: towering karst mountains, peaceful rivers, ancient temples, and a vibe that’ll make you want to stay a bit longer. I know I did!

Known as “Halong Bay on Land,” it’s no doubt a stunner! Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Ninh Binh.

How to Get to Ninh Binh

First, let’s get you there. Ninh Binh is just a couple of hours south of Hanoi, and it’s super easy to reach:

• Train: Hop on a train for about 2.5 hours. It’s scenic, comfy, and costs 60,000–200,000 VND ($8 USD) depending on the class. The train station in Ninh Binh is right in the middle of town.
• Bus: Buses take about 2–3 hours and cost 70,000–150,000 VND ($6 USD). Most will drop you near Tam Coc or the city center, so you’re ready to start exploring.
• Private Car: If you want the smoothest ride, hire a private car or just Uber. It takes about 1.5 hours and costs around 1,380,000 VND ($60 USD).
• Day Tour: If you don’t have too much time or don’t want to rent a motorbike once you get here, just take a day tour from Hanoi. It’s actually cheap and affordable, and you see a lot!

We were exhausted after the Ha Giang Loop, so we Ubered down from Hanoi and then took a bus back to Hanoi. It’s worth noting that getting an Uber from Ninh Binh to Hanoi is a bit harder, so don’t count on it.

RELATED: 31 BEST Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Getting Around Ninh Binh

• Motorbike: The best way to explore. Rent one for 80,000–150,000 VND ($6 USD) per day, and you’re free to roam.
• Bicycle: Perfect for cruising around Tam Coc or the quieter roads. A lot of homestays will loan you one for free or for a small fee.
• Walking: The town is quite walkable, but you won’t be able to see most of the activities or sights without some wheels.

Things to Do in Ninh Binh

If you’re only here for two days, these top 5 things to do in Ninh Bihn will be perfect for your stay!

1. Float Through the Tràng An Scenic Landscape

This is the boat ride you need to do when visiting Ninhn Bihn! Tràng An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a no-hassle way to boat around Nihn Bihn.

You’ll glide along peaceful rivers surrounded by towering karst mountains. The small boat is also perfect for slipping through caves—yes, you’ll float right through several of them!

Along the way, there are stop-offs at a few temples where you can stretch your legs and explore a bit.

Why This One? Tràng An is well-organized and fairly priced, unlike Bến Thạch Bích, which has a sketchy rep for scamming.

They were a bit aggressive toward us, and we backed out, waiting to come here instead.

Cost: Around 250,000 VND ($10 USD).

2. Hike Up Núi Ngoạ Long (Lying Dragon Mountain)

If you’re up for a bit of exercise, climb 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain. The views? Unreal. This is the highlight of Ninh Binh!

After climbing up all those steps —you’ll be rewarded with two main viewing points. It’s worth it, even if you only make it to the first one.

Up top are views of rivers winding through karst mountains, rice fields stretching as far as the eye can see, and a temple precariously perched on a rocky spire.

Timing Tip:
You can go at sunset for that golden-hour glow—This is when I went, and it was magical (and not deathly hot)! But if you come in the mornings, you’ll have fewer people.

Parking Tip:
Ignore the aggressive “parking attendants” waving you down; your entrance ticket already covers parking, so just head to the official lot.

They will tell you it’s full. They will walk out in front of your bike. Just say no thanks and keep driving! Unfortunately, we learned this AFTER visiting, but whatever. Now you know.

3. Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a mix of temples and caves set into the side of a karst mountain. To reach it, you’ll walk across a simple stone bridge surrounded by calm water.

From there, you’ll head up a set of stairs shaded by banyan trees to explore the pagodas built right into the mountainside.

Inside the cave, there’s a small shrine and a few ancient stupas. It’s a quick stop just outside of town!

4. Birdwatch at Thung Nham Bird Valley

This lush spot is perfect for nature lovers. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to catch the birds in action.

During the day, you might only see ducks and goats roaming around, but the views over the fields are still beautiful.

5. Explore the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Step into Vietnam’s history at Hoa Lu, the country’s first capital. The temples here are dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties, and the surrounding mountains make it feel like something out of a movie.

What to Eat in Ninh Binh

You’ve got to eat, right? Here are some solid spots we loved during our visit.

• T-Pub Restaurant: A casual spot with a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes. The fresh rolls and Vietnamese salad were so good, but the tofu and mushrooms (Bun Dau Phu) were incredible!
• Cozy Garden: Simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for a quick bite or drink while you sit along the river and watch people boat around.
• Chookie’s Beer Garden: This one’s a traveler’s favorite for good reason—cold beers, hearty meals, and a laid-back vibe. Garrett and I loved their sister location, Top of Loop, when we did the Ha Giang Loop so we knew we’d love it here.

RELATED: 17 BEST Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam (DN-Friendly Too!)

Where to Stay in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh has something for every budget. Here are a few options:

• Ruby Homestay – (Where we stayed) Affordable, friendly, and perfect if you want a more local experience. They have a pool, and the people running it are so sweet. They are expanding and have a great location in town.
• Tam Coc Garden Resort – This spot blends traditional Vietnamese style with modern comforts. It’s outside of town, but you’re amongst the rice fields, so—worth it!
• Ninh Binh Royal Homestay – A 3-star hotel along a river and just down the road from the incredible Lying Dragon Mountain.

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