Ninh Binh - Limestone Mountains meeting magical riverine landscapes
Ninh Binh is an adventurer's playground and a nature lover's paradise. The first capital of Vietnam was established here. Today, the area is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with mossy pagodas, impressive limestone karsts, and surreal landscapes. Some of Ninh Binh's most beautiful sights are only accessible by boat. A pedal boat tour in Trang An or Tam Coc is a must-do experience in Ninh Binh.
Best time to visit: Feb-To-Apr
Things to do: Trang An Boat Ride, Conquer Mua Cave/Viewpoint, Hike to Silver Cloud Peak, Boat trip to Galaxy Grotto
HOW TO REACH NINH BINH
- Flight - With no domestic airport of its own, visitors must fly to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and from here take a bus or taxi to Ninh Binh, it takes about 2 hours by car. Noi Bai Airport is well connected to most international destinations and other major cities in and around Vietnam. This is the most efficient way to reach international visitors. Flights to Noi Bai include Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, Dragon Air, Hong Kong Airlines, Korean Air and Qatar Airways.
- Rail - Another best and most efficient way to reach Ninh Binh is to take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Railway Station. Travel time takes around 2-5 hours. Southbound trains run daily, three of which belong to the Reunification Express from Hanoi, so it should suit travelers of all budgets.
- Road - Other cheap and convenient option is to take a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Buses are all over Vietnam and depart at any time of the day. You can depart from several major bus stations in Hanoi with buses to Ninh Binh such as Giap Bat and My Dinh Bus Station.
HOW TO GET AROUND
- Motorbike - This is the most convenient method. You can have the rental company bring your bike to the airport. Remember to check your vehicle carefully before renting it to avoid unnecessary collisions.
- Bus - It is also convenient to travel between Ninh Binh and Hanoi locations by bus. Buses are the cheapest way to travel, but they take a little longer and require more effort (travel and waiting for the bus) than other modes.
- Taxi - Grab or a taxi are affordable and convenient options for getting around Ninh Binh. This will save you some money compared to taxis. All you have to do is prepare the app on your smartphone before your trip. The main drawback to consider is that these apps require an internet or data connection. Additionally, Grab accepts credit card payments.
- Rental - If you would like to take a day trip outside of Ninh Binh or a specific tourist attraction, please ask your accommodation if they can arrange a private car for you. You can also negotiate the price with the operator and discuss your desired day trip. It can change according to your location/destination.
Traditional Food
Goat Meat
Mountain Snail
Eel Vermicelli
Nem Chua Yen Man
Kim Son Nhech Raw Fish