
HA NOI - NINH BINH - HA NOI FULL - DAY TRIP
An Escape from the Busy City
Dear guests,
Thank you for browsing my website. Many travelers ask for a peaceful and natural destination near Hanoi, and there’s one place I always recommend without traveling too far, Ninh Binh where is 100km - 2 hours from hanoi is a perfect option for you. This beautiful region offers a wonderful combination of natural landscapes, historical sites, and authentic local culture.
Our full-day trip runs from 7:45 AM to 7:00 PM, starting and ending at your hotel in Hanoi. Below, you’ll find an introduction to each destination along with the detailed schedule.
If you have any questions or would like to customize your day, feel free to contact me via WhatsApp or email.
1. TRANG AN BOAT TOUR
Trang An, recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites you to experience its beauty on a peaceful boat ride through serene water caves and grottoes, rowed by friendly local farmers. As you glide through the waters, you’ll be surrounded by stunning limestone landscapes and impressive rock formations – a truly unforgettable experience.

Trang An Boat Tour
2. THE TRIP CAN ALSO INCLUDE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING SITES, WHICH CAN BE SELECTED BASED ON YOUR PREFERENCES AND INTERESTS
Option 1: Temple of the Kings in Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009, was once the seat of the Dinh and Le dynasties. The kings of these dynasties constructed a citadel, nestled among stunning karst mountains. Despite centuries of war and natural erosion, the site still features significant landmarks, including two sacred temples dedicated to the kings and a portion of the old palace.

Temple of the Kings in Hoa Lu
Option 2: Bich Dong Pagoda, situated near Tam Coc, is one of the oldest pagodas in the area.
It is surrounded by stunning limestone mountains and water lilies ponds. Originally built in 1428 and expanded in 1705, the pagoda is uniquely constructed into the mountainside and consists of three levels: the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagoda. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, impressive ancient architecture, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. With its scenic setting and cultural significance, Bich Dong Pagoda is a popular stop for travelers exploring the Tam Coc area.

Bich Dong Pagoda
3. Mua Cave (Hang Mua - 500 steps)
Mua Cave (Hang Múa) is one of the most popular attractions in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Famous for its panoramic views, visitors climb nearly 500 stone steps to reach the summit, where a dragon statue overlooks the stunning limestone mountains, winding rivers, and rice fields of Tam Coc. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Mua Cave
Trip Schedule:
7:45 AM: Pick-up from your Hanoi accommodation in Hanoi Center/Old Quarter. Travel in comfort by private A/C car to Ninh Binh, approximately 100km (2-hour drive).
9:45 AM: Arrive in Ninh Binh and meet your local English-speaking guide. Begin your adventure with a visit to Hang Mua Caves. Enjoy a short hike up 500 steps for stunning panoramic views from the top.
11:30 AM: Choose from one of the following optional sites to visit:
Hoa Lu Temples (The Ancient capital of Vietnam)
Bich Dong Pagoda (one of the oldest pagodas in the region)
Note: You can also opt for a 30-45 minute cycling excursion depending on your preferences and weather conditions. Please specify your choice when booking (extra 5USD fee)
12:30 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local family-run restaurant.
1:30 PM: Choose between a 2.5-3 hour boat ride through the water caves in Trang An, or a 1.5 hour boat ride in Tam Coc. Please specify your preferred option when booking.
After your boat ride, say farewell to Ninh Binh and its welcoming locals. Your driver will take you back to Hanoi.
6:30 - 7:00 PM: Arrive back at your Hanoi accommodation, where the trip concludes.
Note:
- The itinerary can be adjusted to meet your preferences. Please inform us of your age, physical condition, and travel style when booking so we can tailor the trip accordingly.
- We can also arrange for a motorbike tour with a local guide and rider for sightseeing in Ninh Binh, with a cost similar to the private car option.
What to Bring:
- Camera
- Hat
- Umbrella
- Sunblock
Inclusions:
- Private A/C car transfer
- Local English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees, sightseeing tickets, boat tickets
- Tip for boat rower
- Lunch (vegetarian and dietary options available)
- 3 bottles (500ml) of mineral water per person
Exclusions:
- Personal expenses and drinks
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities for driver and tour guide
Price:
Group size | Fully Inclusive Tour (USD / person) | Car Type | Car Only (USD / car) |
|---|---|---|---|
01 person | 145 | 4 – 7 seat car | 80 |
02 people | 95 | 7 seat car | 80 |
03 people | 75 | 7 seat car | 80 |
04 people | 65 | 7 seat car | 80 |
From 05 and up | From 65 | 9 - 16 -seat car | From 105 |