1. A brief overview of Ninh Binh tourism
Located south of the Red River Delta, less than 90 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for short trips away from the city. Its convenient location helps this land easily connect with the major cultural and economic centers of the North, and also becomes a "golden stopover" in the journey to explore Vietnam.
Nature has generously bestowed Ninh Binh with majestic river and mountain landscapes, picturesque scenery, along with a system of fascinating caves. This place is not only beautiful but also possesses cultural and historical depth, true to its title as the "gateway to the heritage region" of the Northern region.
Majestic and poetic scenery of Ninh Binh. (Source: Collected)
Ninh Binh's charm is created by the combination of magnificent nature and special heritage values. The Trang An Landscape Complex is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site, or Tam Coc – Bich Dong is nicknamed "Ha Long Bay on land" with unforgettable picturesque scenery. Furthermore, attractions such as Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Bai Dinh Pagoda, or Am Tien Cave also help visitors feel more clearly the spirit of nation-building and cultural preservation of our ancestors.
It is the harmony between scenery, history, and people that makes Ninh Binh always rank among the top most beloved destinations, not only for domestic tourists but also for international friends.
2. How to get to Ninh Binh
When planning to explore Ninh Binh, choosing the right means of transport will make your journey more complete and comfortable. From Hanoi, you can easily reach Ninh Binh in just about 1.5 - 2.5 hours depending on the transport, ideal for a short trip.
Buses are the most popular choice, with routes running continuously throughout the day from Giap Bat and Nuoc Ngam bus stations. If you want a gentle experience and enjoy the countryside scenery through the window, the train is an interesting suggestion with trains SE1, SE3, SE5 departing daily from Hanoi station. As for those who prefer comfort and privacy, premium limousine cars are a worthwhile option, offering door-to-door pick-up service, comfortable reclining seats, free wifi, and a quiet space to rest.
Bus routes to Ninh Binh are diverse and flexible. (Source: Collected)
Depending on your preferences, you can choose a means of transport that suits your travel style. If you travel early in the morning, you will arrive in Ninh Binh before 9 AM, in time to kick off a full day of sightseeing.
Don't forget to bring a light jacket as the temperature inside caves is usually cooler, and a pair of lightweight sports shoes for easy hiking and exploring ancient relic sites.
3. Top 5 attractive experiences on your Ninh Binh trip
3.1. Explore the natural heritage of Trang An – Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Trang An is likened to a precious gem in the heart of Ninh Binh. (Source: Collected)
Trang An is likened to a "precious gem" on a journey to explore Ninh Binh. With the title of World Cultural and Natural Heritage awarded by UNESCO, this place fascinates visitors with its system of over 100 caves passing through mountains and majestic limestone mountain scenery. Sitting on a small boat, gliding through magnificent caves, you can feel the wonder of nature through the shimmering stalactites.
Tam Coc Bich Dong with the vibrant yellow of the ripe rice season. (Source: Collected)
Tam Coc - Bich Dong offers a different experience with its vibrant golden hues in May-June. Visitors drift along the serene Ngo Dong river, gazing at golden rice paddies under the morning sun, passing through three magical caves – all creating an unforgettable experience. The stunning scenery, likened to "Ha Long Bay on land", also serves as a rich source of inspiration for photographers and nature lovers.
The majestic and poetic Hang Mua Ninh Binh is the viewpoint for the panoramic view of Tam Coc. (Source: Collected)
To reach Hang Mua, visitors must conquer nearly 500 stone steps. But once at the summit, all fatigue disappears before the panoramic view of Tam Coc and the majestic, continuous mountain ranges. The summit of Hang Mua is called the "roof of Ninh Binh", offering a memorable check-in experience.
3.2. Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
When mentioning the spiritual beauty of Ninh Binh tourism, Bai Dinh Pagoda is definitely a must-visit. Located amidst majestic mountains, the pagoda complex is considered the largest in Southeast Asia, featuring a giant bronze Buddha statue and the longest Arhat corridor in Vietnam. The pagoda's architecture combines traditional ancient charm with subtle modern touches, creating a sacred yet familiar and serene space.
The sacred and magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest spiritual complex in Vietnam. (Source: Collected)
Walking along the breathtakingly long corridor, visitors will encounter hundreds of Arhat statues – each with its own unique expression, recounting profound stories about Buddhism and compassion. During the Lunar New Year, this place becomes more bustling than ever with the Bai Dinh Pagoda festival – one of the biggest spiritual events in the North. The atmosphere is solemn yet cozy, with the sound of temple bells echoing through the mountains; all blend together to create a sense of peace and sacredness characteristic only of Ninh Binh.
3.3. Visiting the Former Capital Hoa Lu
The Former Capital Hoa Lu is like a living page of history, recounting the nation's journey of building the country. This relic complex retains many precious traces from the Dinh and Tien Le dynasties. The temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh still retain their ancient and solemn beauty after thousands of years.
The ancient capital Hoa Lu is ancient and solemn. (Source: Collected)
Every brick, every carved motif reflects the resilient spirit of nation-building of previous generations. Here, visitors can learn about ancient legends and feel the sacredness of the place that was once the first capital after the period of Chinese domination. The ancient mausoleums are surrounded by lush nature, creating a vibrant historical picture.
3.4. Check-in "Love's End Valley" (Tuyet Tinh Coc) – Am Tien Cave
Am Tien Cave - the "Love's End Valley" in the heart of Ninh Binh, is a destination that leaves everyone in awe upon visiting. Amidst a valley surrounded by limestone mountains, the clear jade-green lake reflects the clouds and sky, creating a poetic scene like a vivid living ink painting. This place possesses a beauty that is both tranquil and elegant, yet mysterious and fairytale-like, ideal for those seeking peace amidst the hustle and bustle of life.
Tuyet Tinh Coc Am Tien cave in Ninh Binh is magically beautiful amidst mountains, rivers, and water. (Source: Compiled)
Legend has it that Am Tien was once a place where fairies descended to bathe, leaving behind sacred traces from the time of King Dinh Tien Hoang. Entering that space, you will clearly feel the breath of history blending with nature. Every corner of Am Tien Cave can become an extremely "artistic" photo background, from the path around the lake to the stone bridge spanning the clear water. If you want to find a place that is beautiful, tranquil, and has cultural depth, then Am Tien is an unmissable stop on your journey to explore Ninh Binh.
3.5. Van Long ecological tourism experience – "calm bay"
Van Long is like a prominent green gem in the heart of Ninh Binh, recognized as the largest wetland Ramsar site in the Red River Delta. The calm water surface is like a giant mirror reflecting the mountains, creating a landscape called the "calm bay". Van Long is home to the rare white-faced langur, a proud mascot of this area.
Van Long Nature possesses a quiet and poetic beauty. (Source: Collected)
Experiencing a gentle glide on the quiet water in a bamboo boat, visitors can easily observe the natural lives of animals. White-shanked douc langurs often appear on the trees, bringing interesting moments for souvenir photos. This is an ideal activity for families as well as groups of friends who love nature and exploration.
4. Ninh Binh's Specialty Cuisine to Try
Ninh Binh cuisine always makes visitors remember it forever, not only because of its rustic flavor but also because of the sophistication in each dish.
If asked "What to play and eat deliciously in Ninh Binh?" the first dish mentioned is Ninh Binh's burnt rice. The golden, crispy piece of burnt rice is topped with rich goat sauce or savory braised fish sauce, creating a perfect blend of salty, sweet, and aromatic flavors. Each bite is a bit crispy, a bit rich and savory, making anyone who tries it instantly "addicted".
Ninh Binh's crispy golden rice crust is fragrant. (Source: Collected)
Next is Ninh Binh mountain goat – a famous dish that has made the ancient capital's culinary brand. Thanks to being naturally grazed on rocky mountains, the goat meat here is firm, low in fat, and has a distinctive aroma. From lime-blanched goat, goat hot pot, goat spring rolls to goat blood pudding, each dish carries the strong flavor of the mountainous region, both rustic and rich.
Tender and sweet mountain goat meat with lime. (Source: Collection)
If you want to try something truly unique, you cannot miss Nho Quan ant egg sticky rice. The fragrant, chewy sticky rice combined with the rich creaminess of black ant eggs creates a rare and unique taste experience. This seemingly simple dish is a crystallization of skill and sophistication in local cuisine.
Rich and fragrant sticky rice with ant eggs (Xoi trung kien) combined with chewy sticky rice creates a unique dish. (Source: Collected)
And of course, Ninh Binh eel vermicelli (Mien luon Ninh Binh) is also a "must-try" option. Fresh field eel (luon dong), chewy arrowroot vermicelli (mien dong), and a sweet, clear broth from long-simmered bones create a heartwarming bowl of vermicelli. Just add a little Vietnamese coriander (rau ram), scallions (hanh hoa), and black pepper, and that flavor is enough to make diners feel warm and full, as if enjoying a complete rustic meal amidst the picturesque landscape.
Ninh Binh eel noodle soup is chewy and delicious, with a rich broth full of traditional flavor. (Source: Collected)
Besides visiting the famous attractions above, tourists can combine a visit to Sun World Ha Nam – a modern entertainment complex located just about 1 hour away.
Ninh Binh tourism is truly diverse and rich, from magnificent natural heritage to deep historical culture. Each experience in this ancient capital land brings unique emotions and unforgettable memories. Pack your bags and set off to explore Ninh Binh today!
