Forget all the hustle and bustle of city life! Just about 100 km away from Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a mesmerizing place that attracts millions of visitors each year. This province is blessed with lush greenery and steeped in heritage. Feeling excited to explore it? Let us walk you through a comprehensive guide!

Ninh Binh has a monsoon tropical climate. Source: Flickr
 

Like other regions in tropical Vietnam, the weather in Ninh Binh varies by season. The difference between the monsoon and dry seasons is like day and night. 
From May to September, the province typically experiences a lot of rainfall with high humidity levels. In summer, you might expect the temperature to soar to 35 or 38°C. Meanwhile, the season from November to April is characterized by dry weather. The winter temperature can drop to only 10 to 15°C.
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is in spring (January to March) and autumn (August to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant and favorable for exploring the region to the fullest. The temperature is not as harsh as summer during the day, and when the night wears on, you can enjoy a cool, misty vibe.

Public buses are available in Ninh Binh, but they can be crowded and confusing for tourists. It is recommended to ask locals or your accommodation for assistance when navigating the bus routes.

By Taxi
Taxis provide a convenient but more expensive way to travel around Ninh Binh. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.

Private Car
For those looking for comfort and flexibility, renting a private car with a driver is a great option. This is especially useful for groups or travelers with limited time. Additionally, visitors who book our tours can enjoy the convenience of door-to-door transportation with our shuttle bus service, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
 

You can travel by taxi or shuttle bus. Source: Flickr

By Bicycle
Bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly way to explore Ninh Binh’s countryside. Rentals are inexpensive, and cycling provides a leisurely pace to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

By Motorbike
Motorbike rentals are an affordable and flexible way to explore Ninh Binh at your own pace. Visitors can rent motorbikes from local shops or accommodations and should always wear helmets for safety.

By Boat
Taking a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River is one of the most iconic ways to see Ninh Binh’s limestone karsts and lush rice paddies. The experience offers a peaceful and scenic way to explore the region's natural beauty.

Trang An Complex

It would be a miss if you didn’t visit Trang An Complex when traveling to Ninh Binh. Taking a boat ride along the emerald, serene river feels like an escape from the hectic and stressful life.
As you glide through the river, marvel at the majestic karst mountains and time-worn temples rising from the water. The verdant greenery will be a refreshing retreat that helps you find solace and relief during the boat ride.
This place also rose to fame since it became the filming location of the blockbuster Kong: Skull Island. So, don’t forget to capture once-in-a-lifetime moments while you’re there!

Tam Coc Scenic Boat Ride If you’ve come to Trang An Complex, don’t miss out on Tam Coc! As the boat rows along the river, it will treat you to tranquil and stunning scenery. You can admire the verdant rice fields and the imposing limestone cliffs as if they come from a surreal world. 
The boat also takes you to magnificent caves like Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. Spend time taking in their untouched beauty!

Hang Mua’s Panoramic View
Another tourist hotspot that should be on your bucket list is Hang Mua. But we won’t get inside the cave! Instead, you should climb up the stone steps to the peak. A breathtaking view of Ninh Binh countryside is awaiting you on top. 
It only takes about 20 minutes to reach the peak, and the effort is well worth it. The stunning paddy fields and the majestic mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, making for perfect Instagram-worthy pictures.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore the historical and heritage values of Ninh Binh. Steeped in history, this ancient capital will transport you back to the bygone dynasties of Vietnam.
Wandering around the scenic site, you can visit Le Hoan and Dinh Tien Hoang Temples while breathing in the clean, fresh air. These moss-kissed buildings give you a glimpse into antique architecture and radiate a nostalgic atmosphere.

Bich Dong & Bai Dinh Pagodas
Want a spiritual journey? Ninh Binh’s got you covered with many pagodas and temples to explore. Bich Dong pagoda is an attractive spot for Buddhists, offering a sacred and serene beauty. You can visit this pagoda when going to Tam Coc.
Bai Dinh Pagoda is also a must-see tourist attraction if you wish to delve deeper into Vietnamese Buddhism. Interestingly, this is the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam, in particular, and in Southeast Asia in general. The spiritual value and the Buddhist architectural structures won’t disappoint you.

Savor local specialties in Ninh Binh. Source: Pxhere

Besides its natural charm, Ninh Binh is home to a plethora of signature local dishes. Here are some specialties you might want to savor:

Homestays and bungalows in Ninh Binh are a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Staying with local families offers a warm and authentic experience where you can enjoy home-cooked meals and learn about Vietnamese life firsthand.
Nevertheless, homestays or bungalows tend to be more basic in terms of amenities, and you might miss out on luxuries like air conditioning or swimming pools. On the upside, they are generally budget-friendly and perfect for nature lovers who want a tranquil, rural experience.

Recommended homestays:

Embrace nature with stunning homestays and bungalows. Source: Pexels

Hotels
Hotels provide a more conventional and comfortable experience, often located near major attractions or transportation hubs. They range from budget to mid-range, catering to a variety of travelers. 
Hotels usually come with more amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and breakfast options, but they may lack the personal touch and cultural immersion of homestays. These are great if you prioritize convenience and comfort over an immersive cultural experience.

Recommended hotels:

Resorts
For those seeking luxury, resorts in Ninhbinh offer the ultimate in relaxation and indulgence. Resorts typically provide higher-end amenities such as pools, spas, and gourmet dining. They are ideal for travelers who want to combine exploring with comfort. 
However, resorts come with a higher price tag, which might not fit everyone's budget, and they may feel more isolated from local culture.

Recommended resorts

Are there too many things to prepare for a Ninh Binh trip? Don’t worry! We’ve got your back with various tours, including half-day, full-day, and many-day options, to offer you a hassle-free getaway. Some packages include Hanoi To Ninh Binh, Ninh Binh, or full-day Ninh Binh tours.