Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Experience Four Days to Discover North Vietnam

Northeast Vietnam, especially from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, is a cultural and historical hub, attracting millions of foreign and domestic visitors every year. If you are short on time, this 4-day Hanoi-Ninh Binh tour will be the perfect choice. Are you ready to soak in the magnificent sceneries and diverse histories of these places? Let’s follow us on this journey!

Hanoi to Ninh Binh in 4 Days

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival



Blend in the local life in Hanoi. Source: Flickr
 
Welcome to the enchanting capital of Vietnam! As you arrive in Hanoi, take a moment to breathe in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city. Check into your hotel and unwind, recharging your energy for the adventures ahead. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling delicious street food—try pho or banh mi at a nearby vendor. The choice is yours!

As night falls, stroll through the lively streets, where twinkling lights and the sounds of laughter fill the air. Capture the essence of Hanoi as you relax and prepare for an unforgettable journey tomorrow!

Day 2: Hanoi Full-day City Tour
 


Temple of Literature in Hanoi. Source: Wiki
 
On the second day of your tour, prepare to dive deep into the heart of Hanoi’s rich culture and history with visits to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Start your day with a serene visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, located on a peaceful islet in the heart of West Lake. As the morning light reflects off the shimmering lake, you’ll be captivated by the pagoda’s towering 11-storey stupa and ancient Bodhi tree, gifted by India in 1959. Feel the spiritual calm of this sacred site while learning about its 1,500-year history and architectural beauty.

Next, head over to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, an important pilgrimage site for the Vietnamese people. At the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, you’ll have the opportunity to pay respects to the nation’s revered leader, whose body lies preserved here. 

We will also stop by the Presidential Palace grounds, where Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and the picturesque gardens reflect his humble lifestyle. Don’t miss the One Pillar Pagoda, a stunning symbol of Vietnam’s history and Buddhist heritage.

Following that, let’s delve into Vietnam’s diverse ethnic cultures at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Through its well-curated exhibits, you’ll explore the fascinating lifestyles, customs, and traditions of the country’s 54 ethnic groups, gaining a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s cultural tapestry.

Continue your journey through history with a visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Dedicated to Confucius, this ancient temple is an oasis of calm amidst the city’s hustle, with its tranquil courtyards, ancient stone steles, and elegant pavilions.

Wrap up your day with a visit to the somber yet captivating Hoa Lo Prison, often referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton.” Learn about the prison’s grim history, from its use by French colonists to imprison revolutionaries to its role during the Vietnam War. The exhibits provide an insightful look into the resilience and sacrifices of Vietnam’s people.

We will return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh Tour
 
The breathtaking beauty of Trang An complex. Source: Pexels
The breathtaking beauty of Trang An complex. Source: Pexels
 
On the third day of your journey, prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking natural landscapes and ancient history of Ninh Binh. 

Your day begins with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s capital, during the 10th century. Though much of the original citadel is gone, the ancient aura still lingers in the beautifully preserved temples of King Dinh and King Le, which stand as proud symbols of Vietnamese resilience and heritage. 

As you stroll through the peaceful temple grounds at the foot of Ma Yen Mountain, you’ll hear fascinating stories about these kings who defended Vietnam from foreign invaders. The intricate carvings and relics on display evoke a deep sense of reverence for the country’s early dynasties.

Next, you’ll head to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its surreal beauty. Here, you’ll board a traditional sampan boat and glide along the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone karst mountains and lush greenery. 

As your boat weaves through the tranquil rivers, you’ll explore a network of mysterious Ninh Binh caves, each revealing hidden grottoes and ancient temples nestled among the cliffs. The serene atmosphere, punctuated only by the sound of the paddles cutting through the water, will transport you into another world, one that feels timeless and untouched.

After your peaceful journey through Trang An, prepare for a different kind of adventure at Mua Cave. You need to climb the 500 stone steps to the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain, where a panoramic view awaits you at the top. The climb, though challenging, is well worth the effort. 

Once you reach the peak, you’ll be greeted by one of the most awe-inspiring vistas in Vietnam: a sweeping view of the lush rice paddies below, the Ngo Dong River winding through the landscape, and the tranquil village of Tam Coc in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to capture unforgettable photos and soak in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh.

Coming back to your hotel in Hanoi, you can have some precious me-time in the bathtub while sipping some wine and reflecting on your exhilarating journey.

Day 4: Departure Flight From Hanoi
As your final day in Hanoi begins, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Take a moment to savor local flavors and reflect on the beautiful journey you’ve experienced. After breakfast, you can stroll through the quiet streets, observing the gentle rhythms of local life as vendors set up their stalls and locals begin their daily routines. 

With your heart full of memories, we will drive you to the airport for your departure flight, bidding farewell to this enchanting Vietnam tour.

The Hanoi to Ninh Binh tour is an amazing adventure through culture-rich, stunning places of northern Vietnam. Whether getting back to nature, admiring breathtaking views, or learning about historical sites, this tour has got you covered. If you want to explore this country more, don’t hesitate to contact Private Tour Vietnam!
 
 
 
 
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