While planning our Vietnam trip, we kept seeing Ninh Binh pop up everywhere — people were calling it the “Halong Bay on Land,” and the photos looked unreal. We didn’t really know what to expect, but we figured, why not? So we booked a day tour through Klook, hopped into a comfy limousine bus from Hanoi around 7:30 AM, and off we went for a little adventure as a couple.

And wow — Ninh Binh completely blew us away. It had everything: epic limestone cliffs, peaceful rivers, wide-open rice fields, and even ancient temples. What made it even cooler was that the tour wasn’t just about sightseeing — we got to walk around temples, ride a boat through caves, bike around the countryside, and hike up to this insane viewpoint at Mua Cave.

It was a full, adventure-packed day — the kind that leaves you exhausted but so, so happy. In this blog, we’re sharing our full experience and a bunch of tips to help you plan your own awesome Ninh Binh day trip!

Why We Decided to Visit Ninh Binh

There were a lot of reasons why we added Ninh Binh to our Vietnam itinerary — and honestly, it didn’t take much convincing! Here’s why we knew we had to go:

We needed a break from the crazy city life.
Hanoi is amazing, but after a few days of dodging motorbikes and squeezing through busy streets, we were craving some peace and quiet (and fresh air!).
The landscapes looked straight-up magical.
Towering limestone cliffs everywhere you look, peaceful rivers winding through endless green fields — it felt like a river version of Coron, but instead of island hopping, you’re cruising along by boat. Totally dreamy, and totally our vibe.
It had fewer crowds (and way more chill vibes).
Unlike the packed tourist spots in Hanoi or Halong Bay, Ninh Binh promised a slower, more peaceful pace — perfect for a couple of adventurers like us who also enjoy a little breathing room.
It wasn’t just sightseeing — it was an adventure.
We loved that we wouldn’t just be sitting on a bus all day. In one trip, we got to walk, bike, boat, and hike — basically a full-on mini adventure rolled into a day.
It was super easy (and budget-friendly) from Hanoi.
Tons of day tours make it super simple to book (thanks Klook!), and it didn’t break the bank either. More adventure, less wallet pain — exactly how we like it!
Everyone was raving about it.
Travel blogs, YouTube videos, TikToks — everyone said Ninh Binh was a must. And after seeing it for ourselves, we can confirm: it’s 100% worth the hype!

How Many Days Should You Stay in Ninh Binh?

Before our trip, this was one of the biggest questions we had too — should we just do a day tour or stay overnight?

Since we had limited days to explore Vietnam, we decided to go for a Ninh Binh day tour from Hanoi — and honestly, we have no regrets! It was a jam-packed adventure that gave us a taste of everything: history, nature, boat rides, biking, hiking — all in just one day. If you’re short on time, a day trip is definitely worth it.

That said, if you’re not in a rush and you’d rather take things slow, staying for 1–2 nights is a great option too. Ninh Binh is super chill, and spending more time there means you can explore lesser-known spots like Trang An or Bich Dong Pagoda, or just enjoy the peaceful countryside vibes without watching the clock.

So here’s our take:

Go for the day tour if you’re on a tight schedule — you’ll still see and experience a lot.
But if you’ve got the time and want a more relaxed pace, stay for a couple of days and soak it all in.

📝 Our Tip: If you’re doing the day tour, get a good night’s sleep before — it’s a full-day adventure, but totally worth the energy!

Either way, Ninh Binh is 100% worth adding to your Vietnam itinerary!

How We Booked Our Ninh Binh Day Tour

For our third day in Vietnam, we planned a little escape from the city and headed to the peaceful landscapes of Ninh Binh. Since we didn’t want to deal with last-minute tour hunting or getting scammed, we booked our Ninh Binh day tour in advance through Klook — and it made everything super smooth.

The tour cost around ₱2,600 PHP per person (about $45 USD or ₫1,100,000 VND), and honestly, for everything that was included, it was a steal.

Here’s what came with it:

🚐 Roundtrip hotel pick-up and drop-off in a comfy limousine bus (hello, legroom and aircon!)
🍽️ A set Vietnamese lunch — not a buffet, but filling and flavorful
💧 Bottled water when we boarded the bus (yes, small things count!)
🧑‍🏫 A friendly, English-speaking guide who kept the day fun and informative
🛶 All the highlights in one go: Hoa Lu, the Tam Coc boat ride, biking through the countryside, and a hike up Mua Cave

We also appreciated that Klook had a flexible cancellation policy — we could get a full refund if we canceled at least 24 hours before the tour. It’s perfect for travelers who like a little flexibility in their plans (or just in case the weather turns bad!).

Booking ahead of time gave us peace of mind and helped us stay on track with our itinerary. Plus, with all the positive reviews and clear details, it felt like a no-brainer.

🧡 Here’s the link to the exact tour we booked:
👉 Ninh Binh Day Tour from Hanoi (Klook)

Travel Day: Our Ninh Binh Day Trip Experience

Here’s how our one-day Ninh Binh adventure went — from hotel pick-up to the last limestone cliff view before heading back to Hanoi. It was a packed day, but definitely one for the books!

🕢 7:30 AM – Hotel Pick-up in Hanoi

We started our day early with a hotel pick-up right in Hanoi Old Quarter. Our ride? A cozy limousine bus — not the stretch limo type, but it was spacious, had strong AC, and super comfy seats (perfect for the 2-hour ride). They even gave us bottled water as we hopped in. Win!

The ride to Ninh Binh took about 2 and a half hours, but it honestly flew by — the views of rice fields, small towns, and limestone cliffs along the way made it feel like a mini tour on its own.

Though we did have a bit of a delay at the start — some people in our group were a few minutes late, which slightly pushed back our schedule. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but it’s a good reminder for anyone joining group tours: always be on time! Even just a short delay can affect the entire itinerary or, worst case, you could be left behind (and no one wants that kind of drama on vacation 😅).

🏯 First Stop: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Our first official stop: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. We honestly didn’t know what to expect at first, but this place turned out to be pretty impressive.

So here’s the deal — Hoa Lu was Vietnam’s very first capital way back in the 10th century, during the Dinh and Le dynasties. It’s a huge historic site surrounded by limestone mountains, and it just feels so peaceful and timeless when you’re walking around.

The capital used to be divided into two main sections: the inner citadel and the outer citadel. We got to explore the inner citadel on foot, where we found beautiful temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le. The architecture was so detailed, and it felt like every corner had a story to tell.

Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Capital Gateway Entrance 1

Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Capital Gateway Entrance 2

As we walked through the gate and made our way toward Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng Temple, we noticed something cool — a water buffalo just casually hanging out near the path. Apparently, water buffaloes are common around Hoa Lu, and they’ve kind of become a symbol of the area’s rural charm and deep history. You can even take a photo with the buffalo — just be ready to give a small tip if you do!

One thing to keep in mind: since the temples are sacred, wearing shorts or revealing clothes is not allowed. It’s seen as disrespectful, especially inside temple grounds. But don’t worry — if you forget, they provide cover-up skirts for tourists at the entrance, so you can still enter respectfully.

Our tour guide, Melody, made this stop even more enjoyable. She explained the history in such a fun and casual way, nothing too heavy, and pointed out details we would’ve missed. She even took a few photos for us, which was super thoughtful!

Surrounded by ancient stone walls and dramatic limestone cliffs, the whole place had this calm, majestic vibe. Even if history isn’t usually your thing, just walking through Hoa Lu makes you feel like you’re stepping into a piece of Vietnam’s past.

🍽️ Buffet Lunch at Go Asia Restaurant – Quick Break, Big Appetite

After all the walking around Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, we were honestly running on fumes. Good thing lunch came right after — and we didn’t waste a second! We headed straight to Go Asia Restaurant, just a short drive from Tam Coc, and it was exactly what we needed.

It’s a buffet setup, and the spread was pretty solid. They had a mix of Vietnamese dishes — spring rolls, stir-fried veggies, fried rice, sweet and sour chicken — plus some tofu and noodles too. Nothing too fancy, but everything tasted good and filled us up.

There were fruits and simple desserts too — the pineapple was really good, super sweet and refreshing. Definitely needed that after being under the sun the whole morning.

✔️ The buffet lunch was included in the tour, but drinks were separate. A bottle of water or soda was around ₫30,000–₫50,000 (roughly ₱70–₱115 or $1.20–$2.00 USD), so bring small cash just in case.

We didn’t really get to take a lot of photos here because… well, we were too hungry to think about content 😂. But we did manage to snap a few — sharing them below kahit medyo gutom (a litte bit hungry in Filipino) somehow face vibes 😅

After that satisfying meal, we were more than ready for our next stop — the Tam Coc boat ride (and trust us, that one’s something special).

🛶 Tam Coc River Boat Ride – A Peaceful Journey Through Vietnam’s Scenic Countryside

One of the most memorable parts of our Ninh Binh day tour was the serene and scenic Tam Coc River boat ride — a must-do if you’re exploring the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam.

After lunch at Go Asia Restaurant, our guide reminded us to meet at the Tam Coc boat ticketing area by 12:45 PM. From there, we boarded a traditional wooden boat — just the two of us and our rower, a friendly local woman who rowed the boat using her feet! It’s a signature rowing style in Tam Coc, and watching her gracefully paddle along the river was truly impressive.

As we drifted along the Ngo Dong River, we were surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, lush rice paddies, and the kind of peaceful silence you rarely get on a tour. No motors, no crowds — just birds, oars, and slow, relaxing movement.

⏱️ The boat ride lasts around 1.5 hours (round trip), following the same path going out and back. But it never felt repetitive — the scenery looked just as beautiful in reverse, and we noticed different details the second time around.

One of the most enchanting parts was passing through three natural caves. As we entered the first one, the light faded, and we ducked slightly as the boat slipped into the cool, dark tunnel. The sound of water echoed softly against the stone — it was almost meditative. Then, just as quickly, we’d emerge back into the light, greeted by towering cliffs once again.

Ninh Binh Tam Coc River Approaching the Cave 2

Ninh Binh Tam Coc River Approaching the Cave 3

Our rower was kind enough to offer taking photos of us using our phone — and she even knew the best scenic spots. It was a simple but thoughtful gesture that made the ride feel more personal.

Ninh Binh Tam Coc River Approaching the Cave

However, here’s a little heads-up for future travelers:

During the ride, a separate boat carrying photographers approached us. They asked for permission to take our photos — and while they were polite, they were quite persuasive, asking repeatedly even after we initially hesitated. We assumed they would let us see the pictures first and decide later.

But once we got off the boat, they had already prepared a printed photo album with 10 pictures — most of which were repetitive or not very flattering. They asked for ₫350,000 (about ₱800 PHP or $14 USD). We politely declined, but they still insisted. Thankfully, our guide noticed what was happening and stepped in to help us walk away without pressure.

📝 Tip: You’re not obligated to purchase printed photos. Don’t hesitate to say no, and if needed, your guide can always help you handle it.

🧢 Bonus Tip: The sun can be strong around noon. Bring a cap or pick up a nón lá (Vietnamese rice hat) before the ride — it’s affordable, helps with the heat, and adds that local flair to your photos!

💰 Gratuity Tip: While not required, tipping your rower is highly appreciated. Most of the rowers in Tam Coc receive very modest pay, and they depend heavily on tips to support themselves. If you’re satisfied with the service, a tip of ₫50,000 to ₫200,000 (about ₱115–₱460 PHP / $2–$8 USD) is recommended. We personally gave ₫100,000 (~₱230 PHP / $4 USD) as a small thank you for the peaceful, skillful, and kind service we received.

Despite the minor photo hiccup, the Tam Coc boat ride was one of the most beautiful, calming, and unforgettable experiences of our Vietnam trip. If you’re visiting Ninh Binh, don’t skip this — it’s an experience that truly connects you with nature and local culture.

🚴‍♀️ Optional Cycling to Bich Dong Pagoda – A Scenic Ride, a Small Mishap, and a Big Heartwarming Moment

After our peaceful Tam Coc River boat ride, we met back near the ticketing area where our tour guide, Melody, gathered the group once again. She asked who among us would like to join the optional cycling activity — a nice little bonus for those who still had energy left!

If you prefer not to cycle, you can stay around the Tam Coc River area and explore freely. Just remember: you’ll only have about an hour of free time, so keep track of time to avoid delays.

We decided to go for it!

We walked with Melody to a nearby bike rental station, where we got to choose our own bikes.

🛠️ Tip: Make sure to pick one that fits your height comfortably — it makes a big difference in your ride.

Once everyone was ready, we hopped on and started pedaling as a group. Melody led the way and made sure no one was left behind. The ride itself was surprisingly relaxing — scenic countryside roads, majestic limestone cliffs to our sides, and the breeze brushing past us.

There’s something so refreshing about cycling through open rice fields while breathing fresh air — the kind of moment where you just want to pause, look around, and soak it all in.

That said, be careful — you’ll be sharing the road with a few vehicles, so stay alert and keep close to the group. Melody frequently checked in, but it’s best to keep pace and stay within sight.

🧭 Our destination: the peaceful Bich Dong Pagoda, around 30 minutes of cycling away. When we arrived, we had about 20 minutes to explore, snap photos, and grab a cold drink. It wasn’t a long stop, but enough to enjoy the place and catch our breath.

📝 Quick tips for cycling:

Don’t bring heavy bags — the lighter, the better.

Adjust your bike seat properly before heading out.

Be cautious on the road — it’s shared with motorbikes and a few cars.

Now, here’s where things got… interesting. 😅

My wife, Jam, hasn’t biked in years. She was a little nervous at first but decided to face her fear — and she actually enjoyed it a lot. It was one of those personal wins that make traveling special. 🧡

But on the way back, we had a little accident:
Her skirt got caught in the bicycle chain. 😬
It brought her bike to a complete stop in the middle of the road.

We tried to fix it, but the fabric was really stuck. Thankfully, we were a bit ahead of the group, and a couple of kind Indian groupmates saw us and immediately stopped to help. Other groupmates also rushed to inform Melody, who quickly came back to assist us.

There was even a moment we considered cutting the skirt just to get it free! But with teamwork (and a lot of patience), our new friends managed to untangle the fabric from the chain. We were so grateful — seriously, the kindness of strangers is one of the best parts of traveling.

And of course… here comes the classic post-mishap advice:

👉 Don’t wear a skirt when biking.
Unless you want your cycling adventure to have a dramatic plot twist. 😂

Luckily, Jam wore cycling shorts underneath — so she was able to ride back confidently, greasy skirt and all.

That whole experience, from the scenic views to the small chaos, made this part of the trip so fun and memorable. It was one of those moments we’ll laugh about forever — and a sweet reminder of the kindness of strangers and the importance of a helpful guide.

🐉 Final Stop: Hang Mua Viewpoint – The 500-Step Climb That Took Our Breath Away (Literally and Figuratively)

After our cycling adventure to Bich Dong Pagoda — and a little skirt-meets-bike-chain incident — we regrouped at the Tam Coc boat ticketing area for our last destination: the iconic Hang Mua Viewpoint, also known as Mua Cave.

We rode the bus for about 15 to 20 minutes, just enough time to catch our breath and mentally prepare for what’s known to be the most challenging (but rewarding) part of the tour. When we arrived, our guide Melody gave us clear instructions — where to go, what time to meet, and how long we had. We were given about 1 hour and 15 minutes to climb, explore, take photos, and return to the meeting point.

🏯 What is Hang Mua?

In Vietnamese, “Hang Múa” means “Dancing Cave”. Legend says that centuries ago, this spot was where King Trần came to enjoy royal dance performances. These days, the cave itself is small and often skipped, but it sits at the foot of a towering mountain with one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Northern Vietnam.

The real attraction? A 500-step stone staircase that zigzags up the karst mountain. At the top, you’ll find a majestic stone dragon statue guarding the ridge and a small pagoda on the opposite side. From up there, you get a bird’s-eye view of the Tam Coc River, lush rice fields, and endless limestone cliffs. It’s easily one of the most Instagrammable spots in Ninh Binh.

🧗‍♂️ The Climb – Worth Every Step (But Prepare to Sweat)

Let’s be real — 500 steps sounds like a lot… and it is. The stairs are steep, uneven, and in some parts, pretty narrow. Add the heat and your legs might start negotiating with you halfway through. 😅

📝 Tip: Bring water, wear proper shoes, and don’t rush it. There’s no prize for getting to the top first — take your time and enjoy the journey.

Even with all the panting and leg burn, we kept going — and wow, was it worth it. The view just kept getting better with every step. The plains, the boats on the Tam Coc River, the limestone peaks — it’s the kind of scenery you’d think only exists in postcards or drone shots.

Ninh Binh Hang Mua Plains and Tam Coc River

🐉 We Chose the Dragon’s Path

When we reached the summit, the path split two ways — one leading to the famous stone dragon statue, the other to a small pagoda perched quietly on another peak.

We decided to go for the dragon first — it’s the more dramatic side and definitely the most photographed. The dragon statue, carved from stone, sits majestically on the cliff, looking over all of Ninh Binh like a guardian. Climbing up next to it felt surreal.

To be honest, we didn’t make it to the pagoda. After that long day — biking, hiking, and all — our legs had already waved the white flag. 😅 But we didn’t feel like we missed out. Just standing next to the dragon with the whole valley below us was already a highlight in itself.

🌄 The Descent and Wrapping Up

We took our time heading back down — slowly, carefully, and still pausing to admire the view. Going down is easier on the lungs, but trickier on the knees, so don’t rush.

Once we reached the bottom, we were pleasantly surprised to find that even the view from below was beautiful. There’s a calm open field area with the mountain as your backdrop, great for one last photo stop before calling it a day.

At the bottom, we grabbed a quick drink, cooled off, and joined the group. Hang Mua was the perfect grand finale to our Ninh Binh day tour — a mix of nature, history, physical challenge, and reward.

📝 Quick Tips for Hang Mua Viewpoint:

Wear good hiking shoes or comfy sneakers — those steps can be slippery and uneven.
Bring water and hydrate before the climb.
Take your time — it’s not a race.
The dragon side is more popular and dramatic, while the pagoda side is quieter and peaceful.
If you’re short on time or energy, pick one — both have amazing views.

🚌 Return to Hanoi

After our climb at Hang Mua, we boarded the van and began the trip back to Hanoi. The ride took around 2.5 to 3 hours, with a short stop along the way to stretch and grab snacks.

Most of us were quiet — tired but fulfilled. Some napped, others scrolled through their photos. It was that kind of satisfying silence after a full, beautiful day.

We arrived back in Hanoi around 7:00 PM, ready for dinner and some well-deserved rest.

🌿 Final Thoughts – A Day to Remember in Ninh Binh

This day trip to Ninh Binh was truly one for the books.

From exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, to cruising the calm waters of Tam Coc, biking through peaceful countryside roads, and hiking up the breathtaking Hang Mua Viewpoint — every part of the tour offered something unique and unforgettable.

What made it extra special was the variety of activities packed into just one day. You get a bit of history, nature, adventure, and culture — all in one smooth itinerary. It wasn’t overly touristy either. Everything felt local, calm, and beautifully authentic.

And honestly? It was worth every peso. For everything we got to experience — the transfers, the guide, the food, the views, and the memories — this tour gave incredible value.

We ended the day tired but so fulfilled, with funny stories, beautiful photos, and a deeper appreciation for the charm of Vietnam’s countryside.

If you’re planning a trip to Northern Vietnam, a Ninh Binh Day Tour from Hanoi is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. One day, so many memories.

👉 Want to see how this fit into our full route?
Check out our 9-Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary and our 5 Days in Hanoi Travel Guide for more tips and stories from our adventure.

Perfect Ninh Binh 1-Day Trip: A Complete Guide to Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Mua Cave

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