The most useful Ninh Binh Itinerary for those, who seek to wander:
Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Red River Delta, Ninh Binh is a stunning symphony of nature, history, and culture waiting to be explored. Known as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” this hidden gem is gaining traction as a must-visit destination for family trips. With its breathtaking limestone karsts, serene rivers, ancient temples, and vibrant wildlife, a journey to Ninh Binh promises adventure and relaxation in equal measure to families and couples.
We have created a Ninh Binh itinerary tailored to suit your needs as a family or a couple looking for a relaxing and romantic retreat in one of the most magical places on Earth. This adventure will take your breath away!
How to Travel to Ninh Binh Easily? Through Hanoi
If you are seeking a journey around Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a place you shouldn’t miss! Especially since this location is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from Hanoi airport. The trip could be the perfect lunchtime nap with your baby if you are on a family trip around Vietnam!
Most international travelers will find their journey to Ninh Binh beginning in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital. Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport serves as a hub for numerous international and domestic flights, making it a convenient starting point.
Ways to Reach Your Destination Easily From Hanoi to Ninh Binh
By Train
Taking the train is a scenic and relaxing way to reach Ninh Binh. The journey from Hanoi takes approximately 2 hours. The trains are comfortable and offer different classes of travel to suit various budgets. Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
By Bus
Buses are another popular means of transportation, with several departures daily from Hanoi’s Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations. The bus ride can take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Look for reputable companies like Hoang Long or Trang An for a smoother trip.
By Private Car or Taxi
For those who prefer a private journey, hiring a car or taking a taxi from Hanoi is a convenient option, albeit more expensive. This allows for flexibility in departure times and the added benefit of a door-to-door service. The drive takes about 1.5 hours on average.
By Motorcycle
Even though we would not recommend this option while traveling with your little ones, some adventurous travelers might choose to rent a motorcycle and drive to Ninh Binh. The freedom of the open road and the ability to explore at one’s own pace is quite appealing. However, you need to ensure that you’re comfortable with Vietnam’s road rules and driving conditions before embarking on this adventure.
Now that you know how to arrive easily to Ha Long Bay on land, it is time to think about what you should do if you are planning a family trip for 3 days in Ninh Binh.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Morning:
Arrive in Ninh Binh and settle into your chosen accommodation. Consider staying in a family-friendly resort with easy access to local attractions. Begin your adventure with a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
Afternoon:
After a local lunch featuring delectable goat meat and mountain snails, which the region is famed for, make your way to Trang An. Here, embark on a serene boat tour through its scenic landscape complex. You’ll be navigating through multiple caves, each a natural marvel, and alongside towering limestone peaks.
Evening:
Wind down with a casual evening at your resort. Many places offer cultural shows or puppetry that showcase Vietnamese traditions, perfect for an entertaining and educational evening for the kids.
Day 2: Adventure and Leisure
Morning:
Kick off day two with a visit to the Van Long Nature Reserve. Take a silent boat ride through this tranquil sanctuary early in the morning to spot rare birds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It’s a great way to introduce children to wildlife and the importance of nature conservation.
One thing to note though: The boat ride can take up to 3-4 hours, which can be a little too much for some children, therefore we advise you think about this, before getting on the boat. Once you are in, there is not turning back.
Afternoon:
Post-lunch, cycle to the nearby traditional villages. Biking is a fantastic way for the family to keep active and engage with the local way of life. The rice paddies and rural landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for family photos. Make a stop at a local workshop to see how local crafts and artworks are made, and perhaps even try your hand at it.
Evening:
Sample some local cuisine at a family-run restaurant. Ninh Binh’s culinary scene is not to be missed, with its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes that are kid-friendly and satisfying after a day of exploring.
Day 3: Spiritual Sojourn
Morning:
Begin your day with a spiritual visit to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam. The peaceful environment and impressive architecture will leave you in awe. This is a place where your family can soak in the spiritual ambiance and learn about Buddhist culture.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, make your way to the Mua Caves. Brace yourselves for a bit of a climb, as it’s 500 steps to reach the top but the view is well worth it. Overlooking a panoramic view of Ninh Binh, this is where you can capture the essence of the region’s beauty.
Again, important to note: These are not your usual 500 stairs, some might be half your size, therefore it’s not the best if you have really small children, who needs a lot of support, when climbing up. It might be dangerous for them.
Evening:
Spend your last evening at a local market where you can pick up souvenirs and enjoy street food. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their crafts and daily lives. It’s an authentic experience to round off your trip.
We booked all the above tours via a tourist agency in Ninh Binh, and it made our trip so much easier. It’s much more enjoyable when a local who knows all the history of the region is showing you around.
Best Tips for a Seamless Ninh Binh Family Trip
What is the Best Time to Visit:
Spring (February to April) offers pleasant weather, while the landscape is lush and vibrant after the winter rains. Quick tip: we went late October, the weather was amazing and the prices were much better too. This Ninh Binh Itinerary will help you seek the best places to stay in and to visit during your stay.
Ways of Getting Around:
Renting a private car or using taxis can be more comfortable for family travel. However, for short distances, bicycles are ideal.
What to Pack – Travel Essentials:
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, mosquito repellent, and layers for the cooler evenings.
How to Stay Connected:
Grab a local SIM card on arrival for easy navigation and communication. Now you can even buy e-sims easily online for very cheap prices if you have a compatible device.
Accommodation Recommendations – Ninh Binh Itinerary
Luxury Accommodations
- Upscale resort with family-friendly facilities.
- Spacious rooms with private terraces.
- Offers activities for children, a wellness center, and multiple swimming pools.
Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort
- Luxurious rooms and amenities.
- Has a playground, kids’ club, and suitable family rooms.
- Swimming pools and a spa for relaxation.
- Modern and comfortable rooms, yet filled with heritage and great views of the surrounding nature.
- Swimming pool with a great view to spend time with the kids.
- Amazing Vietnamese hospitality and wellness services.
Since this was our accomodation of choiced, I brought some of our own photos to share with you:
Mid-Range Accommodations
- Nestled amidst rice paddies, it offers a serene environment.
- Family bungalows with garden views.
- Swimming pool and restaurant serving local cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
- Eco-friendly bungalows with a rustic charm.
- Family rooms available and activities like bicycle rentals.
- Near major attractions like Trang An and Tam Coc.
- Affordable stay with a beautiful view of the limestone mountains.
- Offers family rooms and complimentary breakfast.
- Close to Tam Coc River, where boat tours are available.
Final Thoughts
Going on a journey to Ninh Binh with your family is an opportunity to bond over shared experiences, marvel at natural wonders, and educate your children about a culture steeped in tradition and history. It’s an adventure that’s sure to leave lasting memories for every family member.
We hope this Ninh Binh itinerary helped you have a clear picture of what you can do, where you should go, and which places to book! We cannot wait to go back and explore more of the southern side of Vietnam.
We spent a week in a luxury hotel in Phu Quoc – Here is our review.
Disclosure:
Affiliate Links: Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services I use and believe will add value to my readers.
Experience & Pricing: The information, insights, and recommendations provided in this post are based on my personal experience at the time of writing. Please note that prices, services, and availability may vary over time, and the conditions may have changed since the post was published. Always check the current prices and details before making any travel plans or purchasing decisions.
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