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Ninh Binh is where nature, history, and tranquility meet. Just 2 hours from Hanoi, this enchanting land is often called “Ha Long Bay on land” — a masterpiece of towering limestone mountains rising above peaceful rivers and golden rice fields.
Explore the ancient capital Hoa Lư, where the spirit of Vietnam’s first kings still lingers. Drift along the emerald waterways of Tam Cốc or Trang An, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and hidden caves that reveal breathtaking views at every turn. And for those who love adventure, climb to the top of Múa Cave to capture the most stunning panorama in all of Ninh Binh.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
07:15 – 07:40: We will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. If you are staying outside the Old Quarter, please come to 6 Cua Nam Street for pickup.
Itinerary
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1Old Quarter
*OPTION 01: HOA LU - TAM COC - MUA CAVE *OPTION 02: HOA LU - TRANG AN - MUA CAVE *PRIVATE: HOA LU - TAM COC - MUA CAVE FROM 3PAX 7:15 - 7:40 Start with a morning pickup service from your hotels in Hanoi Old Town. Head to Hoa Lu which was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Have a short break on the way to Ninh Binh. 10:00 Take a short walk to visit the King Dinh Temple where you can get to know about Vietnamese history under these dynasties. 11:45: Having lunch in the local restaurant with Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy 1.5 hour a peaceful bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc or 2 hours boat ride at Trang An. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural landscape. The Trang An recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. Explore Mua Cave (Dancing Cave). Walk up almost 500 steps to reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain for amazing panoramic views of Tam Coc. This is one of the best photo spots in Ninh Binh. *Return to your accommodation at around 6:30 - 6:45 P.M
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
2Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries, serving as the political and cultural center of the country under the Dinh, Early Le, and Ly dynasties. Located in the northern province of Ninh Bình, about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi, Hoa Lu is an ancient historical site surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains and lush valleys. The capital city was strategically chosen due to its natural defenses and its proximity to both the Red River Delta and the sea. It flourished for more than 40 years before being moved to Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi) in 1010 during the reign of the Ly Dynasty. Today, Hoa Lu remains an important archaeological and historical site. Visitors can explore remnants of ancient temples dedicated to past emperors, such as the Dinh Tien Hoang Temple and the Le Dai Hanh Temple.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
3Tam Cốc-Bich Dộng
The Tam Coc bamboo boat ride offers a tranquil journey through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. As you sit in a traditional hand-rowed sampan, local boatwomen gently paddle you along the Ngo Dong River, weaving between towering limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and mysterious caves. The name "Tam Coc" means "Three Caves," and during the ride, you’ll pass through Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba — natural water tunnels carved through the mountains.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
4Trang An Landscape Complex
Located in Ninh Binh Province, about 100 km south of Hanoi, Trang An is often called “Ha Long Bay on land” thanks to its dramatic limestone karst mountains rising from peaceful rivers and lush green valleys. The Trang An Landscape Complex is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural and cultural destinations, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.
1 hour 45 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5Mua Caves
Mua Cave (also known as Múa Cave) is a stunning natural attraction located in Ninh Bình Province, northern Vietnam. It is part of the Múa Cave complex and sits at the foot of Múa Mountain in the Hoa Lư District, which is famous for its dramatic karst landscapes and historical significance. Múa Cave is not just a cave but a cultural and natural landmark that draws visitors for its scenic beauty, historical sites, and the challenging hike that leads to panoramic views of the region. The main attraction of Múa Cave is the hike up Múa Mountain, which is often called the “stairway to heaven” due to its 500 stone steps that lead to the summit. The hike can be moderately challenging, but the reward is a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape, including the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and the winding Ngo Dong River that flows through the lush valleys and rice paddies.
1 hour 10 minutes • Admission ticket included -
6Old Quarter
16:30: Get on the bus to return to Hanoi. 18:30 – 18:45: Drop you off at your hotel. The trip ends.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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