Ninh Binh Things to Do: Exploring Vietnam's Hidden Limestone Paradise
I spent five days in Ninh Binh, which was probably too long, but I was waiting for the cold spell to pass so I could see some of the sights on a sunny day (spoiler alert, the cold spell did not pass, which is why all my pictures from Ninh Binh, Tam Coc and Phong Nha are so cloudy!). If you're planning your own Vietnam itinerary and wondering about the best things to do in Ninh Binh, this guide will help you make the most of your time.
Ninh Binh itself is quite industrial and sparse, it doesn't have much of a vibe to it. It's the surrounding areas that most people stay in, most notably Tam Coc, which is where I based myself. Despite the gloomy weather, I still managed to discover plenty of amazing activities and sights that make this area well worth visiting.
Contents
- About Ninh Binh
- How to Get to Ninh Binh
- Things to Do in Ninh Binh
- Practical Tips for Visiting Ninh Binh
- Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Ninh Binh
- Conclusion
About Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh province is often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land" due to its stunning limestone karst landscapes rising dramatically from emerald rice paddies instead of water. Located in northern Vietnam about 100km south of Hanoi, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a rich history as Vietnam's first capital during the Dinh Dynasty in the 10th century.
Most travellers only need 2-3 days to explore Ninh Binh's highlights, although you could easily spend longer if you're keen to delve deeper into the natural wonders and ancient sites. While it's becoming increasingly popular, Ninh Binh still feels less touristy than Halong Bay or Sapa, making it perfect for travellers looking to experience spectacular Vietnamese landscapes without the overwhelming crowds.
How to Get to Ninh Binh
I arrived in Ninh Binh directly from Ha Giang, as did many other people in our group from the Ha Giang Loop. If you're travelling north to south, you may arrive from Sapa, Hanoi, or Ha Long Bay. If you're moving south to north, you might come from Hoi An, perhaps with a stop in Phong Nha or Hue along the way.
No matter where you're coming from, you'll likely arrive by bus or night bus, as this is the most common way to travel around Vietnam. The journey from Hanoi takes about 2-3 hours and costs around 200k-250kVND (7-9€). If you're booking a night bus from elsewhere in Vietnam, your accommodation can usually arrange this for you, but it's worth comparing prices as markups can vary.
Train is also quite a popular option, with regular services from Hanoi to Ninh Binh taking approximately the same time as the bus but offering more comfort. Train tickets typically cost 300k-350kVND (11-13€) depending on the class of service.
🇻🇳 Recommended Reading: A Complete Guide to Ninh Binh
Things to Do in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh and its surroundings offer a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic Vietnamese experiences. From ancient pagodas to stunning limestone mountains, there's something for every type of traveller in this picturesque province.
Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
This three-tiered pagoda complex built into the mountainside is one of the most atmospheric sites in the region. Dating back to 1428, the pagoda offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful views over the surrounding landscape. The lower, middle, and upper pagodas are connected by stone steps carved into the mountain, and exploring all three levels gives you increasingly spectacular views. Entrance is free, though they appreciate small donations.
Explore Bird Valley (Thung Nham Bird Garden)
Bird Valley is a paradise for nature lovers, especially if you visit in the late afternoon when thousands of birds return to their nests. The ecological site features beautiful caves, dense forests, and tranquil lakes with traditional rowing boats. The entrance fee is around 100kVND (3.60€), and it's worth spending at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
Try Mango Coffee and Banh Mi
One of my favourite little discoveries was a local café serving delicious mango coffee for just 20kVND (less than 1€!). The same place also offers great meat and vegetable banh mi from 20kVND. It was my go-to spot for breakfast before heading out for the day's adventures. The combination of sweet mango in the coffee paired with a savoury, crunchy banh mi is perfect for fuelling up.
Experience the Karaoke Bus in Tam Coc
For something completely different, check out the Karaoke Bus in Tam Coc. This converted bus offers a unique karaoke experience where you can belt out your favourite tunes with friends or even make new ones among fellow travellers. It's a fun way to spend an evening and get a taste of how much Vietnamese people love their karaoke!
Book a Private Karaoke Room
If the Karaoke Bus isn't private enough for you (or if you're a bit shy like me), there are several places in both Ninh Binh and Tam Coc where you can rent a private karaoke room. Prices typically start from around 100kVND (3.60€) per hour, and many places offer food and drink service while you sing your heart out.
Climb Lying Dragon Mountain (Mua Caves)
One of the absolute highlights of my time in Ninh Binh was climbing the 500 stone steps up to the viewpoint at Mua Caves. Despite the cloudy weather, the panoramic views over the Tam Coc rice fields and winding Ngo Dong River were breathtaking. The entrance fee is 100kVND (3.60€), and I'd recommend going early in the morning to avoid both the crowds and the midday heat.
Take a Coffee Making Class
Several cafés in the area offer informal coffee making classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese coffee. From the strong cà phê đen (black coffee) to the sweet and creamy cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk), it's a lovely way to spend an hour or two and gain a new skill to take home with you.
Join a Cooking Class
I didn't have time for this, but many travellers I met raved about the cooking classes available in Tam Coc. Most classes include a market visit to pick fresh ingredients before learning to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls, pho, and bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes). Prices usually range from 300k-500kVND (11-18€) per person.
I'd say you need a maximum of 3 days to see everything there is to see, especially if you have a scooter to get about. Many of the natural attractions are similar in terms of landscape, so you don't necessarily need to visit all of them unless you're particularly enthusiastic about limestone karsts and rice fields!
🇻🇳 Recommended Reading: Where to Stay in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)
Practical Tips for Visiting Ninh Binh
Getting Around Ninh Binh
In Tam Coc, everything is 100% walkable, which is one of the things I loved about staying there. The main street is lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops, and you can easily reach most accommodations on foot. However, many people choose to rent a bike or scooter to visit the sights nearby, as they're spread out across the countryside.
Public transport options are not really worth exploring as they're limited and inconvenient for tourists. Grab (Southeast Asia's equivalent to Uber) is available and is mostly used to travel between Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city, costing around 80k-100kVND (2.90-3.60€) for the journey.
Renting a bicycle costs about 50kVND (1.80€) per day, while motorbike rentals start from around 150kVND (5.40€). Most accommodations can arrange either option for you, and having your own transport definitely makes it easier to explore at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season from November to April when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal. I visited in January, and while it was quite cold and cloudy (around 15-18°C), it was still comfortable for exploring.
May to October is the rainy season, with June to August being particularly wet and hot. However, this is also when the rice fields are at their most vibrant green, creating a stunning backdrop for photos – if you're lucky enough to get a clear day!
The peak tourist season aligns with the dry winter months, particularly around Tet (Vietnamese New Year) in January or February. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April or October.
Money & Costs in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is generally very affordable, even by Vietnamese standards. A meal at a local restaurant might cost 30k-70kVND (1.10-2.50€), while a beer will set you back around 20k-30kVND (0.70-1.10€).
Regarding ATMs, there is only one TP bank in Tam Coc, and it's often out of cash because it's so popular. However, it seems to get refilled several times a day, so keep trying! In Ninh Binh city, you'll find more ATM options.
Some places take cards with a 3% transaction fee, but I wouldn't rely on this. It's best to carry enough cash for a few days, especially if you're staying in Tam Coc rather than the main city.
For a budget traveller staying in hostels, eating local food, and using public transport or rental bikes, expect to spend around 500k-800kVND (18-29€) per day. Mid-range travellers staying in nice guesthouses and enjoying some tours might spend 1,000k-1,500kVND (36-54€) daily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Ninh Binh
Is Ninh Binh worth visiting?
Absolutely! Ninh Binh offers some of Vietnam's most stunning natural landscapes, with limestone karsts, peaceful rivers, and vibrant rice fields creating a magical setting. It's less crowded than Halong Bay but equally beautiful in its own way. The cultural and historical sites add another layer to the experience, making it a well-rounded destination for any Vietnam itinerary.
How long do you need in Ninh Binh?
I'd recommend spending 2-3 days in Ninh Binh. This gives you enough time to visit the main attractions like Trang An or Tam Coc boat tours, Mua Caves, and the various pagodas, while still having time to soak in the atmosphere. If you're particularly interested in nature or photography, you might want to add an extra day to explore more remote areas.
Which is better, Halong Bay or Ninh Binh?
Both offer spectacular limestone karst landscapes, but they provide different experiences. Halong Bay offers the unique experience of staying overnight on a boat and exploring islets in the sea. Ninh Binh gives you similar landscapes but on land, with the added benefits of cultural sites, more flexibility in your itinerary, and generally lower prices. If you have time, both are worth visiting for their contrasting experiences.
Is it better to stay in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh?
I'd definitely recommend staying in Tam Coc rather than Ninh Binh city. Tam Coc is more scenic, peaceful, and closer to most attractions. It has a pleasant, walkable centre with plenty of accommodation and dining options. Ninh Binh city is more industrial and doesn't have the same charm, though it does have better transport connections if you're just passing through.
Conclusion
Ninh Binh might not be Vietnam's most famous destination, but it certainly deserves a place on your itinerary. The stunning landscapes of limestone karsts rising from emerald rice fields create a magical setting that feels like stepping into another world. Whether you're climbing to panoramic viewpoints, exploring ancient pagodas, or simply cycling through the peaceful countryside, Ninh Binh offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Despite my less-than-ideal weather luck, I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and found it to be a refreshing contrast to Vietnam's bustling cities. The slower pace and breathtaking scenery make Ninh Binh perfect for recharging while still having plenty to see and do. Just remember that you probably don't need as much time as I spent there – unless, of course, you're also waiting for that elusive sunny day!
