Unveil the Secrets of Ninh Binh: A 2-Day Journey Through Vietnam’s Timeless Beauty (NB-261)

2 Days 1 Night
Discover the hidden wonders of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh on this immersive 2-day, 1-night tour that combines history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From exploring ancient temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to cruising through mystical caves and bird-watching in serene valleys, this trip offers a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to experience authentic Vietnam, this tailor-made adventure by ViettrendTour will leave you with unforgettable memories. Venture into the heart of Vietnam’s rural charm as you visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the stunning Trang An boat caves, and the majestic Mua Cave. Cycle through picturesque villages, marvel at iconic temples like Thai Vi, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Thung Nham Bird Valley. With expert guides, local experiences, and a comfortable stay in a cozy homestay, ViettrendTour offers a perfect gateway to the best of Ninh Binh.

Escape to the Heart of Ninh Binh: A 2-Day Journey Through Nature and History

Step into the enchanting landscapes of Ninh Binh with this unforgettable 2-day, 1-night adventure. Begin your journey by exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where the stories of Vietnam’s first dynasties come to life among temple ruins and dramatic mountains. Sail through the mystical caves of Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where emerald waters and limestone cliffs seem to transport you to another world.

In the afternoon, climb to the summit of Mua Cave, and be rewarded with panoramic views over Tam Coc—the “Halong Bay on land.” After a relaxing evening at a traditional homestay, continue your adventure the next day with a peaceful bike ride to Thai Vi Temple and the beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda. Then, immerse yourself in nature at Thung Nham Bird Valley, where you’ll glide silently through the river, surrounded by over 4,000 birds in their natural habitat.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore Vietnam’s Ancient Heart: Walk through Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital, where history and legends unfold in the temples of Dinh and Le Kings, offering a deep connection to the past.
  • UNESCO-listed Beauty: Cruise through the magical Trang An landscape, where emerald waters weave through caves and towering limestone mountains, immersing you in a cinematic, natural wonderland.
  • Epic Views at Mua Cave: Climb 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain and be rewarded with sweeping views of Tam Coc—a stunning panorama of rice paddies, rivers, and jagged peaks.
  • Authentic Local Experience: Cycle through picturesque villages, feel the rhythm of rural life, and visit Thai Vi Temple and Bich Dong Pagoda, where time seems to stand still in the tranquil beauty of nature.
  • Birdwatcher’s Paradise at Thung Nham: Glide through the serene waters of Thung Nham Bird Valley, surrounded by over 4,000 birds and awe-inspiring limestone cliffs, a truly peaceful and surreal experience.
  • Overnight in Nature’s Embrace: Stay in a cozy homestay surrounded by Ninh Binh’s natural beauty, where you can unwind, enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and experience local hospitality firsthand.
  • Personalized Comfort: Enjoy cozy homestays and expert local guides who offer insights into Ninh Binh’s history, culture, and beauty, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
  • Tailor-Made Journey: At ViettrendTour, we craft each trip to your preferences—whether it’s more cycling, peaceful reflection, or custom stops along the way. Your adventure, your pace.

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Journey to Ancient Wonders & Natural Marvels

    7:30 AM – 8:00 AM: Departure from Hanoi Your adventure begins with a warm welcome from your ViettrendTour guide, who will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi. Settle in and relax as you journey towards Ninh Binh, known for its towering limestone peaks, rich history, and stunning landscapes.

    9:15 AM: Relaxation Break Stop for a short break to stretch your legs and enjoy a snack before continuing your journey through Vietnam's scenic countryside.

    10:30 AM: Discover Hoa Lu – Vietnam's Ancient Capital Your first stop is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 AD. As you explore the Temple of King Dinh and the Temple of King Le, you’ll hear captivating stories of Vietnam’s early dynasties—the Dinh, Le, and Ly. Surrounded by majestic mountains and tranquil lakes, Hoa Lu offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

    11:45 AM: Buffet Lunch at a Local Restaurant After exploring the ancient temples, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring local specialties such as goat meat, fish, fried rice, and more. Vegetarian options are also available to cater to all dietary preferences.

    1:00 PM: Trang An – A UNESCO World Heritage Site In the afternoon, set off to explore Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning karst landscape and intricate cave system. Hop aboard a traditional boat for a 2-hour cruise through the waterways, where you’ll pass through lush valleys, narrow caves, and towering limestone formations. Trang An is a true paradise for nature lovers, and its beauty was even featured in the movie Kong: Skull Island.

    3:00 PM: Cycle Through Local Villages Next, it’s time to grab a bike and cycle through the peaceful local villages surrounding Trang An. This 45-minute ride lets you witness the daily life of the local people and offers a unique way to experience the rural beauty of Ninh Binh.

    3:45 PM: Mua Cave – The “Dancing Cave” After cycling, hop back onto your Limousine bus and head to Mua Cave (also known as the "Dancing Cave"). Here, you’ll climb nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tam Coc—a landscape often described as the "Halong Bay on land." The view from the top is a perfect spot for photos!

    5:00 PM: Check-in & Relax at Your Homestay After your exhilarating hike, head to your homestay, where you’ll check-in and enjoy some free time to relax. Spend the evening unwinding in the tranquil surroundings, perfect for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

    6:00 PM: Dinner & Overnight at the Homestay Delight in a traditional Vietnamese dinner with a variety of flavorful dishes. Then, retire for the night in your cozy homestay, where you can rest and recharge for the next day’s adventure.

  • Day
    02

    Temples, Caves, and Birds – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

    7:30 AM – Breakfast at the Homestay Wake up to a refreshing breakfast at your homestay, preparing you for a day of exploration in one of Vietnam's most serene natural landscapes.

    8:30 AM: Thai Vi Temple & Bich Dong Pagoda Your day begins with a scenic cycle ride to the nearby Thai Vi Temple, a sacred site surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. Afterward, visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a beautiful and peaceful cave pagoda set against a backdrop of limestone cliffs—often regarded as the second most beautiful cave in Vietnam.

    11:30 AM: Lunch at a Local Restaurant Head back for a delicious lunch, where you’ll enjoy more local specialties, including goat meat, fried rice, spring rolls, and fish. Vegetarian options are also available to ensure everyone’s needs are met.

    1:00 PM: Thung Nham Bird Valley – A Tranquil Escape After lunch, venture to Thung Nham Bird Valley, a paradise for bird watchers. Here, you’ll board a small sampan boat and paddle through Hang But (Buddhist Cave), where you’ll witness the enchanting beauty of stalactites, stalagmites, and the striking Buddha-shaped formation. The cave is only part of the experience—explore the tropical orchards and marvel at the 4,000+ birds of 40 species that inhabit the area.

    2:30 PM: Bird Watching on the Boat The afternoon is the best time for bird watching. Glide slowly through the bird park and enjoy the tranquility of the area as you take in the sights and sounds of the birds in their natural habitat. This peaceful experience is perfect for photography and immersing yourself in the wild beauty of Ninh Binh.

    4:00 PM: Return to Hanoi As your adventure draws to a close, hop back onto the bus and head back to Hanoi. Reflect on the unforgettable landscapes and experiences of the past two days.

    6:30 PM: Drop-off at Your Hotel in Hanoi You’ll arrive back in Hanoi by early evening, with memories of a truly magical journey through the natural and historical wonders of Ninh Binh.

Cost Includes

  • 1 night accommodation at Bungalow/Homestay
  • Limousine bus transportation with an experienced driver
  • English-speaking guide
  • 1 dinner, 2 lunches with traditional Vietnamese cuisine
  • Free usage of hat, umbrella, and raincoat during the trip
  • Free Wifi & water on the bus

Cost Excludes

  • Beverages during lunch
  • Tips for guide & driver
  • Personal expenses
  • Any items or services not specifically mentioned above