Top 10 Best Travel Tips for Ninh Bình

Resorts: After long days exploring Ninh Bình, if you're looking to unwind and relax or simply want a peaceful weekend getaway with your family, consider the luxurious resorts in Ninh Bình. Thanks to its natural beauty, Ninh Bình boasts numerous top-notch resorts.

Here are some options:

• Emeralda Ninh Bình Resort: Van Long Nature Reserve, Gia Vân, Gia Viễn, Ninh Bình - 022 9365 8333
• Ninh Bình Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: 9 Tam Cốc, Ninh Thắng, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 022 9388 8555
• Tam Cốc Garden Resort: Hải Nham, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 0378 253 555
• Tràng An Retreat: Tràng An, Trường Yên, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 0898 743 863

Hotels and Guesthouses: A common form of accommodation, hotels and guesthouses are easy to find across all popular tourist destinations in Ninh Bình, offering a range of prices to fit your budget.

Some suggestions include:

• Mua Caves Ecolodge: Khê Hạ, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 022 9361 9679
• Tam Coc Banana Bungalow: Tuan Cao, Ninh Thắng, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 0962 663 355
• Golden Season Hotel: Nguyễn Hữu An, Phúc Sơn, Ninh Bình - 0981 493 589
• The Reed Hotel: Đinh Điền, Đông Thành, Ninh Bình - 022 9388 9979

Homestays: As Ninh Bình's tourism has grown, homestays have become a popular option, offering a more personalized experience for travelers.

Here are some recommendations:

• Nan House – Tam Cốc: Đội 4, Văn Lâm, Ninh Hải, Tam Cốc, Bích Động, Ninh Bình - 0902 303 769
• Chezbeo Homestay: Khả Lương Village, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 0943 917 135
• Ninh Bình Valley Homestay: Ninh Xuân, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 0975 368 665
• Ninh Bình Greenland Homestay: Ninh Xuân, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình - 0374 692 699

Many people may know Ninh Bình through famous tourist spots like Tràng An, Bái Đính, the ancient capital Hoa Lư, or Tam Cốc, Bích Động. However, Ninh Bình offers much more to explore beyond these well-known locations. Here are some of the highlights:

• Tràng An Scenic Area: Tràng An is known for its majestic, picturesque landscapes, with layers of limestone mountains, golden rice valleys, and mysterious caves. To fully experience its beauty, you may spend 3-4 hours paddling through the waters. With its pristine scenery, Tràng An was recognized by UNESCO as a world natural and cultural heritage site. It also served as a filming location for the blockbuster movie Kong: Skull Island. Entrance fee: 200,000 VND/adult – 100,000 VND/child
• Tam Cốc – Bích Động: Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Tam Cốc – Bích Động attracts both domestic and international visitors. The area features three caves—Cả, Hai, and Ba—where visitors can drift along the Ngo Dong River through stunning mountain landscapes and caves. After exploring Tam Cốc, you can visit Bích Động Pagoda, which blends serene beauty with impressive views. Entrance fee: 120,000 VND/adult – 60,000 VND/child
• Múa Cave: Alongside Tràng An and Tam Cốc – Bích Động, Múa Cave is another must-see destination in Ninh Bình. Mount Ngọa Long, often likened to Vietnam’s Great Wall, offers stunning views that will leave you awestruck. From the top, you can gaze across vast rice fields. Entrance fee: 100,000 VND/person
• Am Tiên Cave: Am Tiên Cave, surrounded by towering mountains, is a challenging yet rewarding destination. To reach the “Tuyệt tình cốc” (Fairy Lake) inside, you must climb 205 steps or pass through a mountain tunnel. Inside, the cave is neither too narrow nor dark, offering a mystical atmosphere to enjoy the unique surroundings. Entrance fee: 20,000 VND/person
• Bái Đính Pagoda: You’ll be amazed by the vast space and unique architecture of Bái Đính Pagoda, the largest temple in Southeast Asia. The pagoda is home to 1,001 statues of Arhats, golden statues of Avalokiteshvara, and a towering pagoda offering panoramic views. Not only a remarkable architectural site, Bái Đính is a sacred place of pilgrimage and prayer. Entrance fee: 50,000 VND for pagoda tour – 30,000 VND for electric car ride
• Hoa Lư Ancient Capital: A trip to Ninh Bình would be incomplete without visiting Hoa Lư, which preserves significant historical memories of Vietnam’s 10th and 11th centuries. The entrance to Hoa Lư is marked by a curved bridge over the Sao Khê River. On the right side, you’ll find the tomb and temple of King Đinh Tiên Hoàng, while on the left lies the tomb and temple of King Lê Đại Hành. Exploring the ancient capital offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history. Entrance fee: 20,000 VND/person
• Cúc Phương National Park: With its rich ecosystem, Cúc Phương is home to over 300 species of birds and 2,000 plant species. It’s one of Ninh Bình’s most impressive attractions. From April to May, you can witness the mesmerizing sight of fluttering butterflies. Entrance fee: 60,000 VND/person – 10,000 VND/child – 20,000 VND/students
• Vân Long Wetland Reserve: Vân Long is the largest natural wetland reserve in northern Vietnam, surrounded by limestone mountains and undiscovered caves. Visitors can take a boat ride through clear waters and enjoy views of endless rice fields. Entrance fee: 50,000 VND/person
• Thung Nham Bird Garden: Thung Nham is home to over 40 species of birds and more than 50,000 animals. Here, you can observe flocks of birds flying across the sky, while taking in the natural beauty of the area. You can also visit the ancient banyan tree, the thousand-year-old Fig Tree, and explore caves such as Vái Giời, Bụt Cave, and others. Entrance fee: 100,000 VND for general entry, 20,000 VND for bird garden, 20,000 VND for Bụt Cave
• Phát Diệm Cathedral: Phát Diệm Cathedral combines Western Gothic architecture from the 12th century with unique Vietnamese design elements. Its ancient, imposing structure attracts visitors who come to admire its beauty and attend mass.

Ninh Bình's specialties have never failed to impress visitors! Not only is it home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes, but its rich culinary culture is equally remarkable. Explore Ninh Bình with must-try dishes such as:

• Ninh Bình Crispy Rice: Although not a traditional dish, Ninh Bình Crispy Rice was created by a local from the ancient capital and has been passed down and developed over generations. It’s a simple dish showcasing human craftsmanship, now a beloved specialty of the region.
• Ninh Bình Mountain Goat Meat: Famous for its lean, tender texture, Ninh Bình mountain goat meat is said to be the result of the region's rocky terrain and nutritious herbs. The goats roam freely in the mountains, feeding on unique herbs that impart distinct flavors to the meat, which pairs perfectly with local dishes like Kim Sơn wine, Nho Quan wine, and crispy rice.
• Kim Sơn Fish Salad: During the rainy season, local fishermen harvest a type of fish called 'nhệch', which is similar to eel but found in brackish waters. This fish is used to make a unique salad, served with a variety of herbs like fig leaves and guava, and topped with a savory fish sauce dressing.
• Ninh Bình Mountain Snail: Found in the region's limestone caves, these rare snails only emerge during the rainy season. With firm, chewy meat and a herbal flavor, they’re often grilled, stir-fried with tamarind, or served in fresh salads.
• Cúc Phương Chicken: Raised in the Cúc Phương forest, this chicken is prized for its delicious, fragrant meat, which is a local specialty of Nho Quan district in Ninh Bình.
• Tổng Trường Fish: This fish, found in the caves of Hoa Lư, is known for its firm, golden flesh and aromatic taste. It’s often prepared in a variety of ways such as fried, stewed, or cooked in sour soup.
• Đồng Giao Pineapple: Grown in Tam Điệp, Đồng Giao pineapples are famous for their unique flavor and are included in the list of Vietnam's top 50 special fruits.
• Tố Như Vermicelli: This dish is made with perfectly cooked vermicelli, seasoned with meatballs crafted from tender cuts of pork, and served in a flavorful broth.
• Nho Quan Ant Egg Sticky Rice: This unique dish uses ant eggs collected from Nho Quan’s limestone mountains, which are known for their richness in protein. The eggs are used to make a delicious, nutrient-packed sticky rice.
• Vân Long Grilled Fish: Found in the Vân Long Wetlands, this fish is prized for its tender, fatty meat, making it an exquisite regional delicacy.
• Ninh Bình Eel Vermicelli: Unlike other eel dishes, this one stands out with a rich broth made from eel bones, creating a flavorful, hearty meal that showcases the region’s culinary traditions.
• Gáo Fish Stew: This traditional dish is made by cooking fish with the fruit of the gáo tree, which grows in Ninh Bình’s stream valleys. The stew has a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the local rice.
• Stir-Fried Field Crab with Betel Leaves: This crunchy, savory dish uses field crabs and aromatic betel leaves. A local favorite, it’s often served with rice and is loved for its simplicity and bold flavors.

Ninh Bình is known for being a top tourist destination that attracts numerous visitors. Here, you can not only enjoy breathtaking landscapes but also indulge in a variety of local specialties that will leave you wanting more. Here are some great suggestions for souvenirs to take home from Ninh Bình:

• Crispy Rice: A source of pride for the people of Ninh Bình, crispy rice is considered a must-try souvenir from the region. There are several variations such as crispy rice with pork floss, shrimp, or fried onions. This dish might seem simple at first glance, but it requires great care and skill to prepare. The rice used is typically fragrant sticky rice, and it’s cooked in a thick-bottomed clay pot over charcoal to achieve a perfectly crisp, golden layer.
• Goat Meat Spring Rolls: One dish you must try when visiting Ninh Bình is goat meat spring rolls. The meat comes from goats that roam the rocky mountains, running and jumping freely, which results in firm, flavorful meat. The spring rolls are carefully seasoned with a unique blend of spices to create a deliciously savory snack.
• Yên Mạc Fermented Pork: This is a traditional dish made from lean pork, pig skin, and spices like monosodium glutamate and salt, then fermented to develop its characteristic tangy flavor. Wrapped in guava leaves, this delicacy is often eaten with fig leaves and herbs, and dipped in a mixture of fish sauce, lime, and chili, creating a deliciously balanced taste that’s both sour and savory.
• Nho Quan Wine: A special beverage of the Mường people in Nho Quan, this wine is made from sticky rice mixed with yeast and aged for at least three months. Unlike regular wines, it’s not distilled but served directly from the jar, often sipped through hollow bamboo straws. It has a unique sweet-spicy flavor with a fragrant aroma that’s perfect when paired with crispy rice and Ninh Bình goat meat.
• Gia Viễn Shrimp Paste: A specialty of Gia Viễn, known for its wetland areas, this shrimp paste has a rich reddish-brown color, a savory taste, and a perfect balance of saltiness. It’s often used in cooking, such as in stir-fries, or served as a dipping sauce for boiled vegetables and meats.
• Kim Sơn Mats: For generations, Kim Sơn mats have held a place in Vietnam’s traditional crafts. Made from reed, these mats are praised for their durability, beauty, and the artistry involved in their creation. Skilled artisans carefully select the reeds, process them, and weave them into mats that are not only practical but also represent the cultural heritage of Ninh Bình.
• Rattan Craft Goods: Rattan craft goods, another popular souvenir from Ninh Bình, showcase the region’s rich tradition of handcrafting. From mats to baskets and trays, these eco-friendly items reflect the rural life of Northern Vietnam. Visitors can find a wide variety of intricately designed rattan goods, all perfect for taking home as a piece of Ninh Bình's craftsmanship.

• Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival: Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest and most majestic structure in Ninh Binh, holding several national and Southeast Asian records. The pagoda complex includes the ancient Bai Dinh temple, the Tam The Hall, the Bell Tower, and other notable structures, attracting visitors from across the world. The Bai Dinh Festival, celebrated during the Lunar New Year, begins on the first day of Tết and honors national heroes, praying for peace and prosperity.
• Thai Vi Temple Festival: Held from the 14th to the 16th day of the 3rd lunar month in Van Lam, this festival honors Kings Tran Thai Tong, Tran Thanh Tong, Tran Nhan Tong, Tran Anh Tong, and Queen Dowager Hien Tu. The most significant figure in this festival is King Tran Thai Tong, who established the region of Van Lam during the second Mongol invasion. This large-scale festival is held every three years, with various villages in the region participating in processions to honor the kings.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival: Also known as the Truong Yen Festival, it is celebrated from the 6th to the 8th day of the 3rd lunar month in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. The festival includes a grand procession carrying the altars of Kings Le and Dinh, with music, incense offerings, memorial ceremonies, and a lantern release. The festival also features traditional games, drawing locals and tourists alike.
• Trang An Festival: This festival, held on the 18th of the 3rd lunar month, is a celebration to honor the contributions of Saint Quy Minh Dai Vuong, a national hero. It also promotes the development of Trang An as a world-class tourist destination.
• Christmas Festival at Phat Diem Stone Church: Known as the Vatican of Vietnam, Phat Diem Stone Church hosts one of the largest Christmas festivals in the country. The church is beautifully decorated with lanterns, stone walkways adorned with images of Jesus Christ's life, and nativity scenes. Local people practice singing carols and performing arts to welcome visitors during the Christmas season.
• Minh Dai Vuong Traditional Festival: Celebrated on the 18th of the 3rd lunar month at the Tran Temple in Hoa Lu, this festival honors the spirit of Minh Dai Vuong, a local deity. It is marked by a unique water procession, ritual offerings, and a boat release on the Sào Khe river. The festival is a spectacular sight as boats sail through over 11 caves in Trang An.
• Bao Ban Non Khe Festival: Held annually on the 14th day of the first lunar month in Non Khe village, this festival honors the founding ancestors of the village and is a time for villagers to return home. It includes a traditional ceremony and a lively part with folk games such as wrestling, chess, dragon dances, and athletic events.
• Ky Phuc Cam Gia Temple Festival: This festival takes place on the 12th of the 10th lunar month in Cam Gia, Ninh Khánh. It includes four main ceremonies: offerings, prayers for peace, incense offerings, and completion rituals. The festival also has a festive atmosphere with dragon dances, lion dances, and other traditional activities such as tug-of-war and chess games.
• La Temple Festival: This festival, held from the 13th to the 15th day of the 1st lunar month at La Phu village, Yên Thành, honors two kings from the post-Tran dynasty, Giản Định Đế and Trùng Quang Đế. The festival includes a procession around the temple, incense offerings, and the reading of memorials. The highlight of the festival is the fun folk games like swings, chess, and unique performances.
• Nguyen Cong Tru Temple Festival: Held annually from the 14th to the 16th of the 11th lunar month in Quang Thien, this festival commemorates the life and achievements of Nguyen Cong Tru, a historical figure known for his contributions to the establishment of Kim Son district and the reclamation of land from the sea. It is the largest festival in the coastal Kim Son region.

Ninh Binh offers captivating tourist spots, from historical landmarks like the ancient capital Hoa Lu to natural wonders such as Tam Coc Bich Dong, known as "Halong Bay on land," and the "Tuyet Tinh Coc". These destinations continue to attract visitors. If you're planning a 2-day, 1-night trip to Ninh Binh, here’s a popular itinerary that travelers often follow:

Day 1: Ninh Binh, Phat Diem, and Thien Ha Cave:

• Phat Diem Stone Church. This Catholic complex, constructed primarily from stone and wood between 1875 and 1899, is famous for its unique architecture.
• Lunch break. In the afternoon, head to Thien Ha Cave. Although not large, this cave, nestled in the Tuong mountain range – part of the natural fortress protecting Hoa Lu in the 10th century – is a favorite spot for visitors looking to explore the ancient capital's surroundings.
• Return to Ninh Binh city in the evening, check into a hotel for rest, and enjoy the local delicacies of Ninh Binh.

Day 2: Trang An, Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh, and your departure:

• Start the day by traveling from Ninh Binh city to Trang An tourist area, and choose one of two routes for exploring the site. After your exploration, continue to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital to visit the temples of Kings Dinh and Le.
• Before leaving the region, don't forget to stop by Bai Dinh Pagoda, a newly built temple that holds several Vietnam records.

Important Tips for Traveling in Ninh Binh:

• Ninh Binh is a safe city with friendly locals, but like anywhere, theft can occur. It’s recommended not to bring valuables, avoid isolated areas, and refrain from going out late at night.
• When taking boat trips through caves, always wear a life jacket and follow the boatman's instructions carefully.
• If your itinerary includes trekking spots like Bai Dinh, Hang Mua, or Tam Coc, opt for light, comfortable clothing, wear sports shoes, and carry water. When visiting temples, avoid revealing attire and loud behavior in sacred areas.
  
• Clothing and Essential Items: Prepare clothing suitable for the activities you're planning, choosing light, comfortable clothes for hiking, and respectful attire for spiritual sites. A light jacket is also recommended since most of Ninh Binh’s attractions are near waterways, which often have cooler climates. Additionally, pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and medication for common illnesses.
• Connectivity: Ninh Binh's area code for landline phones is 0229. Mobile networks cover most of the region, though some remote areas or caves may have limited signal. For internet access, cafes, hotels, and the Ninh Binh Provincial Library offer free Wi-Fi.
• For your safety during your Ninh Binh trip: While on boat tours through caves, always pay attention to the boatman’s guidance to avoid obstacles and ensure the boat doesn’t capsize. Wearing a life jacket is mandatory, and all visitors must follow the safety rules set by the tourist sites.

Ninh Binh is a province located in the southern part of the Red River Delta, at the gateway to northern Vietnam. Just about 100 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is an attractive tourist destination both for domestic and international travelers, thanks to its stunning landscapes and renowned cultural and spiritual sites. Each season brings its own charm to Ninh Binh, making it an ideal place to visit at any time of the year.

Known as the land of the ancient capital, Ninh Binh has become one of Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations. It's not only domestic tourists who flock to the area but also millions of international visitors each year. Travelers are always in awe of Ninh Binh’s natural beauty, with famous attractions like Bai Dinh Pagoda, Phat Diem Stone Church, Trang An, Non Nuoc Mountain, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, and many more scenic spots waiting to be explored.

Ninh Binh is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique beauty. Many of the province's iconic attractions are accessible year-round, drawing tourists throughout the year. However, two periods are considered the best times to visit Ninh Binh for the most spectacular views: early spring and early summer.

• From January to March, Ninh Binh enters the spring season, with slightly chilly weather and plenty of cool, breezy days, making it ideal for scenic tours of the mountains and visits to pagodas at the start of the year.
• From April to June, you can visit Ninh Binh to witness the enchanting sight of butterflies fluttering through Cuc Phuong National Park – one of the most captivating natural phenomena to experience. After the butterfly season, the region enters its rice harvest period, where vast golden fields and blooming lotus ponds amidst the mountains of Ninh Binh offer an unforgettable experience.

For the remainder of the year, Ninh Binh is often rainy, with overcast skies, making it less ideal for outdoor activities. It's best to avoid visiting towards the end of the year due to the dreary weather.

How to get to Ninh Binh from your location:

By Bus

• From Hanoi: You can board a bus from any major bus station heading to Ninh Binh. Many reputable bus companies offer affordable and comfortable services on the Hanoi-Ninh Binh route, taking about 2 hours via the Phap Van-Cau Gie expressway.
• From Ho Chi Minh City: You can catch a sleeper bus from major stations like Eastern Bus Station, Western Bus Station, or An Suong. The journey takes around 20 hours, but it’s a budget-friendly option. Overnight buses are available for a more restful ride.
• From other cities: Similarly, buses to Ninh Binh can be boarded at large bus stations or along National Highway 1A. If catching a bus along the highway, be sure to agree on the fare before boarding to avoid being overcharged.

By Car:

• Since Ninh Binh is about 100 km from Hanoi, traveling by car is a convenient option if you're in the capital or nearby cities.

By Train:

• From Hanoi: You can take train SE7 (6:15 AM) or SE5 (9:00 AM). Train travel is safe and affordable but less flexible in terms of timing.
• From Ho Chi Minh City: There are 5 train services available from Ho Chi Minh City to Ninh Binh (SE8, SE6, SE2, SE4, TN2) with different departure times. The journey takes 29-32 hours.
• From other cities: You can check with local ticket offices or train stations for schedules and routes that suit your travel plans.

By Air:

• From Ho Chi Minh City: You can take a flight to Hanoi and then continue your journey by bus or car to Ninh Binh.

By Motorcycle:

• From Hanoi: Riding a motorcycle to Ninh Binh is an option if you're looking for a more flexible and adventurous journey. Be sure to check the condition of your bike before departure. The trip takes about 2 hours. The advantage of this mode of transport is that you can continue exploring Ninh Binh on your motorcycle without needing to rent one.

Getting Around in Ninh Binh: Renting a motorcycle is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around Ninh Binh. You can easily arrange rentals by phone, with daily rates ranging from 100,000 to 150,000 VND.