Ninh Binh: Trang An, Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Small Group Tour

Northern Vietnam , Vietnam

Ninh Binh: Trang An, Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Small Group Tour

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(85 reviews)

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About this experience

Explore the highlights of Ninh Binh on this memorable small group tour. Enjoy a scenic Trang An boat ride through magnificent limestone mountains and caves, visit the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, and step back in time at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam. End the day at Mua Cave, where a short climb offers a breathtaking sunset view over Tam Coc’s countryside. A perfect journey combining nature, culture, and history.

Available options

Ninh Binh: Trang An, Bai Dinh, Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Small Group Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Electric city car 2 way in Bai Dinh Pagoda

Tourguide.

Hotel pickup and drop-off.

Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hike up to Mua Cave for Sunset

Entrance fee, Trang An boat ticket.

2 bothle of waters.

Lunch in local restaurant.

Detailed itinerary

8:30 - Our touguide and van will pick you up at your hoetel/homestay in Tam Coc, Trang An, Ninh Binh and departure to Hoa Lu Anicent Capital

9:00 - Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Explore Vietnam’s first capital during the Dinh and Le dynasties.

Visit the historic temples of King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh.

Learn about Vietnam's early royal history and architecture from your guide.

Stop 2

10:30 – Arrive Glimmering Bai Dinh pagoda complexes, the largest pagoda, not only in Vietnam but also in Southeast of Asia. Scenically set on the foot hill of Dinh Mountain surrounded by amazing views of the exquisite river valley below and dotted and the limestone karsts dotted around which will take your breath away.

This pagoda complexes stunningly boast a array of the most massive and magnificent architecture of Vietnamese tradition refined ever built that it take a full day to explore all. So you will visit some of the highlights that owned the national:
– 500 stone statues of “La Han” (Arhats)
– 2 huge bronze bells, one weighs 27 tons, other weighs 36 tones.
– Visit The Quan Yin statue with thousands arms and eyes.
– Visit Gautama Buddha satatue.

With sacred atmospheres and intriguing Buddhism story which presented by Our insider guide, you cannot fail to enchant.

12:30 – Enjoy the lunch at our restaurant with the great local cuisines.

13:30 – Then depart for Trang An and board a small boat to float next to limestone cliffs, mysterious caves, peaceful streams, and lush rice paddies. The boat ride takes you to the Sang, Toi, Ba Giot, and Nau Ruou caves.

16:00 - Conquer Mua Cave (Hang Múa)
Hike 500 stone steps up Ngoa Long Mountain.

Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view over Tam Coc, rice fields, and limestone peaks – a top photo spot in Ninh Binh.

17:00 PM - Return Journey
Relax in the van as you return to your accommodation.

17:30 PM | Arrival & Drop-off at Hotel
Tour ends with drop-off at your hotel or homestay.

Say goodbye to your guide and fellow travelers with wonderful memories.

What's not included

Beverages.

Gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide

VI EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

82 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is a region rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, this area offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.

Top Attractions

Ha Long Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands.

Nature 2-3 days for a comprehensive experience Moderate to Expensive (depending on cruise type)

Hanoi Old Quarter

The historic heart of Hanoi, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and vibrant markets.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 days Free to explore, budget for shopping and dining

Sapa

A picturesque town in the mountains, known for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages.

Nature/Cultural 2-3 days Moderate

Ninh Binh

Known as 'Halong Bay on land' for its stunning limestone karsts and ancient temples.

Nature/Historical 1-2 days Budget to Moderate

Ha Giang Loop

A challenging and scenic motorbike route through the remote mountains of Northern Vietnam.

Adventure 3-5 days Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour type)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A noodle soup with beef or chicken, served with fresh herbs and lime. It's a national dish and a must-try in Northern Vietnam.

Breakfast/Lunch Can be made vegetarian/vegan (Pho Chay)

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. A specialty of Hanoi.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, can be made vegetarian (Bun Chay)

Banh Mi

A baguette sandwich filled with various ingredients such as pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce. A popular street food item.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian

Egg Coffee

A unique Hanoi specialty made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and strong coffee. Served hot or iced.

Drink Contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Motorbike the Ha Giang Loop Trekking in Sapa Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Boat rides in Tam Coc Spa and wellness treatments in Hanoi Coffee tasting in Hanoi Explore Hanoi Old Quarter Visit temples in Ninh Binh

Best Time to Visit

March to April and September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and with street vendors

Northern Vietnam is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and use common sense.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious with street food and drink only bottled or filtered water
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 30 km from Hanoi city center
Cat Bi International Airport • 5 km from Hai Phong city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station, Hai Phong Railway Station

By bus

Hanoi Giap Bat Bus Station, Hanoi My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable and cover most areas, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hanoi Old Quarter French Quarter Tay Ho

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • 2-3 days for a comprehensive experience

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. A multi-day cruise is the best way to experience the bay.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • 1-2 days

Known as 'Halong Bay on land' for its stunning limestone karsts and ancient temples. The area offers beautiful boat rides and scenic countryside.

Mai Chau

130 km from Hanoi • 2-3 days

A picturesque valley known for its rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and homestays. It's a great place to experience rural Vietnamese life.

Festivals

Tet Holiday (Lunar New Year) • January or February (varies each year) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide for trekking and cultural experiences to gain a deeper understanding of the region
Try street food at busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and safety
Use app-based transportation services like Grab for convenient and reliable taxis
Carry small change for markets, street vendors, and public transportation