1. Introduction to Ninh Binh 3 days 2 nights tour
Ninh Binh boasts outstanding beauty thanks to the interplay of world natural heritage, profound cultural and historical values, and the unique natural scenery of the North. It is no coincidence that Trang An is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, or that Tam Coc, the ancient capital Hoa Lu, and numerous ancient caves and pagodas are always on the must-visit list for tourists.
Ninh Binh's scenery resembles a picturesque landscape painting, where nature and history harmonize. (Source: Collected)
Just about 90 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is an ideal choice for a weekend getaway from the city. A 3-day, 2-night itinerary is enough for you to leisurely explore famous scenic spots, enjoy the feeling of drifting on the vast waterways, and listen to the temple bells echoing amidst the mountains and forests. And of course, don't forget to take time to savor local cuisine, from crispy burnt rice to the renowned mountain goat,... to make your trip even more complete.
2. When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?
Each season in Ninh Binh has its own charm, making visitors want to return many times and still find it new.
From the 1st to the 3rd lunar month, when the weather is cool and the trees are budding green, Ninh Binh dons the serene beauty of the early year. This is also the season of vibrant festivals with the Bai Dinh Pagoda festival and the Trang An festival, bringing a sacred atmosphere, allowing visitors to admire the scenery and join the crowds of early spring pilgrims.
By late May - June, the Tam Coc region enters the ripe rice season – a time often described as the most beautiful 'golden season' of the year. The scenery here becomes vibrant and poetic with golden rice fields, interspersed with the winding Ngo Dong river. Drifting gently by boat amidst this scene, everyone feels like they are lost in a vivid painting of a Northern Vietnamese countryside.
Ninh Binh during the ripe rice season is adorned with brilliant yellow amidst rolling mountains. (Source: Collected)
And if you prefer a peaceful, cool atmosphere, visit Ninh Binh between October and December. At that time, the weather is pleasant, with little rain – ideal for outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, cave exploration, or visiting ancient pagodas.
3. Guide to traveling to Ninh Binh for 3 days 2 nights
3.1. How to travel from Hanoi and major cities to Ninh Binh
Limousine buses are a preferred choice for many tourists visiting Ninh Binh due to their comfort, convenience, and door-to-door pick-up service, with a travel time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Some reputable bus companies tourists can refer to are Hoa Lu Limousine, Trang An Limousine, and Minh Long Limousine, with ticket prices ranging from 200,000 VND to 250,000 VND one way.
Additionally, traditional buses are also a budget-friendly option with routes departing from Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations, with ticket prices from 100,000 to 150,000 VND one way.
Buses on the Hanoi - Ninh Binh route operate continuously every day, serving the travel needs of tourists. (Source: Collected)
If you want a new experience, the train is an interesting option. Departing from Hanoi station to Ninh Binh station or Kim Son station (near Phat Diem), ticket prices range from 90,000 to 200,000 VND depending on the seat class.
Alternatively, you can travel by private car for schedule flexibility, suitable for groups of friends or families, with a travel time of about 1.5 to 2 hours from the center of Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
3.2 Moving within Ninh Binh province: choosing transportation, booking vehicles
Renting a motorbike is a popular choice for tourists, suitable for those who want to freely explore attractions. This option is especially suitable for young groups or those who enjoy experiences. Besides, taxis are also a convenient option, suitable for families or tourists who don't want to move around much, and you can rent a car for a package tour or by the segment.
Experiencing bicycle rental services at Tam Coc and Trang An is also a great way to enjoy the fresh air and explore the peaceful countryside. Or electric car tours are available at major attractions like Bai Dinh, Trang An, priced from 30,000 to 60,000 VND per ride, very suitable for families or the elderly.
4. Suggested Ninh Binh 3-day 2-night itinerary
Day 1: Trang An and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Starting the journey, Trang An appears like a vivid painting. Sitting on a boat gliding down the clear water, you will weave through magical caves – Hang Sang (Bright Cave), Hang Toi (Dark Cave), Hang Nau Ruou (Wine Cooking Cave) – each cave has its own beauty and story. Not only a dual World Heritage site recognized by UNESCO, Trang An is also attractive for its rich ecosystem, where limestone mountains cast shadows on the deep blue water. The local boatman skillfully steers the oars while telling stories about the ancient capital, making the trip more poetic.
Trang An - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the majestic beauty of Ninh Binh's landscape converges. (Source: Collected)
In the afternoon, the trip leads to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which preserves the golden imprints of Dai Co Viet in the 10th century. Walking along moss-covered paths, admiring the ancient architecture with curved roofs and intricate wood carvings, you will feel the sacred and tranquil atmosphere. The historical stories about King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh told by the guide will make the trip not just a tour, but also a journey back to the roots.
Ancient Capital Hoa Lu is the first capital of the centralized feudal state of Vietnam, preserving thousand-year historical imprints. (Source: Collected)
Day 2: Tam Coc – Mua Cave – Thung Nham Bird Garden
The second day begins with Tam Coc, nicknamed the “Ha Long Bay on land”. On the Ngo Dong River, boats gently drift through three large caves, flanked by rice fields, either lush green or golden depending on the season. The moment sunlight shines on the rice fields, the boat glides through the cool shade of the caves, makes anyone want to capture it through their lens.
Tam Coc is nicknamed the "Ha Long Bay on land". (Source: Collected)
In the afternoon, move to Mua Cave, about a 20-minute drive from Tam Coc, where you will be challenged with over 400 steps leading to the top of Ngoa Long mountain. From above, the entire panorama of Tam Coc unfolds: the Ngo Dong river winding through fields and limestone mountains, a majestic natural painting, making the effort of climbing worthwhile.
Mua Cave is a famous check-in spot in Ninh Binh, where visitors admire the panoramic view of Trang An from the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain. (Source: Collected)
If you have time, you should not miss Thung Nham Bird Garden – an ecological paradise where thousands of storks, night herons, and egrets fly back to their nests at sunset. The sight of flocks of birds spreading their wings over the golden water reflecting the afternoon light makes everyone marvel. You can also cycle around the ecological area or row a boat through the flooded forest to fully experience the tranquility here.
Thung Nham Bird Garden is a famous ecological tourist area, home to thousands of bird species amidst a peaceful river and mountain landscape. (Source: Collected)
Day 3: Bai Dinh Pagoda - Sun World Ha Nam
The final day unfolds with Bai Dinh Pagoda, a vast spiritual complex, characterized by thousands of Buddha statues and grand architecture. Strolling through the pagoda grounds, visiting the Relic Tower, bell tower, or solemn shrines, you will feel tranquility amidst the vast space. Moving by internal electric car helps you easily explore the entire pagoda without fatigue.
Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest spiritual center in Vietnam, famous for its massive scale and magnificent architecture. (Source: Collected)
In the afternoon on the journey back to Hanoi, visit Sun World Ha Nam, where you can immerse yourself in a vibrant entertainment space with a theme park, exciting games, and beautiful scenery. This is a youthful highlight for the trip, especially ideal for families or groups of friends.
5. Accommodation when traveling Ninh Binh for 3 days 2 nights
After a long day of exploring the natural landscape, choosing a comfortable place to rest is essential for a complete journey. In Ninh Binh, you can easily find various types of accommodation, from high-end resorts amidst nature, rustic riverside homestays, to convenient hotels right in the city center.
5.1. Little Tam Coc
Although recently opened, Little Tam Coc has quickly become a favorite stop for many travelers thanks to its space imbued with ancient Vietnamese style. The paving bricks, walls, doors, and interior furnishings are all delicately designed, evoking a sense of old-world elegance.
Each room has a private balcony overlooking the garden, ideal for enjoying a morning cup of tea and listening to birdsong in a peaceful setting.
A great plus is the complimentary bicycle rental service, local cultural discovery tours, and especially the pet-friendly policy.
- Address: Dam Khue Ngoai, Nam Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh
- Room price: 800,000 – 1,500,000 VND/night
5.2. Tam Coc Lavender Homestay
Nestled amidst limestone mountains, Tam Coc Lavender Homestay is an excellent choice for a Ninh Binh trip. The lush green space, rustic wooden furnishings, and the peaceful natural scenery create a rare sense of relaxation.
Here you will find an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a BBQ area within the premises.
- Address: Tam Coc, Nam Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh
- Room price: 400,000 – 900,000 VND/night
5.3. Ninh Binh Palm Homestay
If you love simple beauty, Ninh Binh Palm Homestay will captivate you. The houses with tiled roofs and palm leaf, gardens shaded by trees, dark brown wooden doors… create a warm and familiar atmosphere.
Inside, modern amenities are fully provided, ensuring the most comfortable stay. Guests can rent bicycles to cycle around Tam Coc – Bich Dong, enjoy the scenery, or visit Bai Dinh Pagoda when it is lit up.
- Address: Tam Coc, Nam Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh
- Room price: 400,000 – 700,000 VND/night
5.4. Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
Amidst pristine nature, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh fully recreates the architecture of a Northern Vietnamese countryside village with tiled roofs, wooden pillars, lotus ponds, and red brick pathways.
The resort has 2 main restaurants: Hotspot serving groups and Organic specializing in Vietnamese – European dishes, along with BBQ parties and private chefs. An excellent choice for those who want to relax and enjoy high-class cuisine.
- Address: Tap Ninh village, Gia Van commune, Ninh Binh
- Room price: 1,700,000 – 5,000,000 VND/night
5.5. Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort
Located near Tam Coc Wharf, Hidden Charm Resort is a 5-star resort harmoniously blending modern and rustic styles. Cozy rooms, exquisite wooden furnishings, and a space filled with greenery bring a true sense of relaxation.
The highlight is the 4 luxurious restaurants, serving Ninh Binh specialties like burnt rice, goat meat… to international cuisine. In the evening, don't forget to visit The Lantern Lounge to enjoy cocktails and chill with soft music.
- Address: No. 9, Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist center, Ninh Binh
- Room price: 1,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND/night
5.6. Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa
With unique pyramid-shaped room designs, overlooking the swimming pool and lush green gardens, Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa offers a feeling of camping amidst nature.
The 5-star resort features a high-class spa, an outdoor pool, a play area, and a restaurant prepared by a famous chef. This is an ideal choice for combining relaxation after visiting the sacred Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- Address: Hamlet 5, Bai Dinh Pagoda area, Tay Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh
- Room price: 800,000 – 3,000,000 VND/night
To ensure a good room during peak seasons such as festival season, summer, or rice harvest season, it is advisable to book 2 to 4 weeks in advance. You can search for deals on reputable platforms like Booking, Agoda or contact the hotel directly to receive attractive prices and many exclusive offers.
A 3-day 2-night trip to Ninh Binh is a perfect combination of nature, cultural heritage, and memorable spiritual experiences. With this specific itinerary and useful tips, your trip promises to leave many wonderful impressions. Get ready and set off to enjoy peaceful moments amidst the natural beauty of Ninh Binh!
