Private day tour - Explore Ninh Binh in one day from Hanoi

8 to 9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Just a short drive south of Hanoi lies Ninh Binh, one of Vietnam’s most scenic and culturally significant regions. Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh captivates travelers with towering limestone mountains, peaceful rivers, vast rice fields, and centuries-old historical monuments. This private day tour from Hanoi offers the perfect escape from the city, combining history, nature, adventure, and authentic rural life into one unforgettable journey.

Designed for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and meaningful experiences, this private tour allows you to explore Ninh Binh at your own pace with personalized service and a knowledgeable local guide.

What's Included

Drinking water
All entrance fees + Private sampan
Private English speaking tour guide
Lunch
Private car
Personal Expenses
Other drinks

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We will pick you up & drop you off at your hotel in Hanoi

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • Hanoi (Pass by)

    Our private tour guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

    Our private tour guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel for a 2-hour journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The first stop is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (King Dinh & King Le Temples) Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, located in Ninh Binh Province, is one of Vietnam’s most important historical sites. It served as the nation’s first capital in the 10th century under the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and natural moats, Hoa Lu was strategically chosen for both defense and political stability. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, two national heroes who laid the foundation for Vietnam’s independence after more than a thousand years of Chinese domination. The temples feature traditional Vietnamese architecture, stone dragon carvings, ancient courtyards, and peaceful scenery that reflect the spirit of the former royal capital.

    45 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2
    Mua Caves

    Second stop: Mua Cave Mua Cave (Hang Múa), located near Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Province, is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in northern Vietnam. Often referred to as the “Great Wall of Vietnam,” the site is famous for its stone staircase of nearly 500 steps leading to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain. From the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tam Coc’s winding Ngo Dong River, golden rice fields, and dramatic limestone karsts rising from the valley below. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, especially during the rice harvest when the landscape turns vibrant yellow. At the mountain peak stands a majestic stone dragon statue, symbolizing power and prosperity, making it a favorite spot for photography. Combining natural beauty, light adventure, and iconic views, Mua Cave is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Ninh Binh.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Tam Cốc-Bich Dộng

    Next stop: doing the sampan boat along the river at Tam Coc Tam Coc, located in Ninh Binh Province, is one of Vietnam’s most picturesque destinations, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.” The area is renowned for its stunning limestone karst formations, peaceful countryside, and winding rivers flowing through vast rice fields. The highlight of Tam Coc is a traditional sampan boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, where local rowers skillfully navigate through three natural caves—Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Along the way, visitors can admire dramatic cliffs, lush paddies, and rural villages that reflect the charm of northern Vietnam.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 4
    Bich Dong Pagoda

    Last stop: Bich Dong pagoda Take the biking tour from Tam Coc to visit Bich Dong pagoda Bich Dong Pagoda, located near Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Province, is one of the most beautiful and ancient pagodas in northern Vietnam. Built in 1428 during the Later Le Dynasty, the pagoda is gracefully nestled against a limestone mountain and surrounded by peaceful rice fields and lotus ponds. The pagoda complex consists of three levels—Ha Pagoda (Lower), Trung Pagoda (Middle), and Thuong Pagoda (Upper)—each harmoniously integrated into natural caves and cliffs. From the upper pagoda, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and karst landscape. With its quiet atmosphere, traditional architecture, and perfect blend of spirituality and nature, Bich Dong Pagoda is often called the “Green Pearl of Ninh Binh” and offers a serene cultural experience for travelers visiting the region.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket included
  • Hanoi (Pass by)

    Another 2-hour journey back to Hanoi after the tour

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Cyclo Travel & Leisure

Tags

Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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