Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang An Boat, Mua Cave, Bich Dong Small Group

Northern Vietnam , Vietnam

Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang An Boat, Mua Cave, Bich Dong Small Group

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About this experience

Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh on this full-day tour. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, enjoy a serene boat ride through Trang An's caves, hike up Mua Cave for panoramic views, and discover the peaceful Bich Dong Pagoda.

Itinerary:
08:30 AM – Pick-up from hotel in Ninh Bình/Tam Cốc.

09:00 AM – Visit Hoa Lư Ancient Capital.

10:00 AM – Boat ride through Trang An's caves.

12:30 PM – Traditional lunch at a local restaurant.

02:30 PM – Hike Mua Cave for panoramic views of Tam Cốc.

04:00 PM – Explore Bich Dong Pagoda.

05:00 PM – Return to hotel.

Highlights:
UNESCO Trang An boat tour.

Explore Hoa Lư and Ninh Bình's ancient history.

Stunning views from Mua Cave.

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a hidden gem.

Available options

Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang An Boat, Mua Cave, Bich Dong Small Group

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch: Delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch with local specialties..

Diverse experiences: History, spirituality, nature, hiking, and boat riding.

Entrance fee

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: Free pickup and drop-off from hotels in Ninh Binh or Tam Coc.

Boat Ride at Trang An: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Trang An's limestone caves and rivers.

Experienced Guide: English-speaking guide with deep knowledge of Ninh Binh’s history and culture.

Modern tourist vehicle with air-conditioning, comfortable seating. Pick-up and drop-off at hotels, homestays, or bus stations in Ninh Bình. Professional and friendly driver ensuring a safe journey.

Detailed itinerary

Visit the historic site of Hoa Lu, the capital of Vietnam in the 10th century. Discover ancient temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, and learn about the history of the early Vietnamese dynasties.

Enjoy a peaceful sampan boat ride through the UNESCO-listed Trang An. Pass through limestone caves, lush greenery, and towering cliffs. This is one of the most beautiful boat trips in northern Vietnam.

Climb up nearly 500 stone steps to reach the top of Mua Cave (Hang Múa). Admire the breathtaking panoramic views of rice fields and limestone mountains stretching across the Ninh Binh countryside.

Stop 4

Explore the serene Bich Dong Pagoda, built into a limestone cliff. This peaceful and spiritual spot offers a mix of natural beauty and religious architecture.

What's not included

Other Meals and Drinks: Any meals outside of the included lunch, drinks are not covered in the tour.

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you have special needs, please notify us in advance for best support.

Important notes

Ticket Exchange Instructions (Optional)
If you need to change or exchange your tour ticket, please follow these guidelines:

Notify us as early as possible: Contact us at least 24 hours before departure for the best support.
Flexible rescheduling policy: You can change your travel date based on availability.
Last-minute changes are not supported: Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded if the request is too late.
Ticket transfer option: If you cannot join the tour, you can transfer your ticket to another person (advance notice required).

Contact our customer support team for assistance and to ensure a smooth experience!

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