Explore Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc & Mua Cave Day Trip from Hanoi
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12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Discover breathtaking panoramic views over Tam Coc Valley on this full-day Small Group Tour from Hanoi to Hoa Lu and Ninh Binh. Visit the famous Mua Cave and capture stunning photos of the underground karst landscape. Hike up nearly 500 stone steps with your expert guide to enjoy sweeping views of lush green mountains, Ngo Dong River, and Tam Coc countryside while learning about Vietnam’s unique jungle flora and fauna. Take a relaxing sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River to explore the three famous caves of Tam Coc. Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese buffet lunch and a scenic bike ride around Tam Coc’s peaceful rural area. All entrance fees, bike rental, and lunch are included for a fully inclusive experience.
Available options
Small Group by Limousine
Small Group by Limousine<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Free bottles of mineral water
Have a buffet lunch with Vietnamese cuisine.
Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the mentioned itinerary.
Shared Boat Trip in Tam Coc
English speaking tour guide.
Included rental for bicycle ride.
Pick up/drop off at your hotel by Minivan or Limousine ( Depend each option)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Between 7:30–8:00 AM, our bus will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter for a 2-hour drive to Hoa Lu, including a short rest stop along the way.
2
Stop 2
At around 10:30 AM, arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Visit the 10th-century temples of King Dinh and King Le, and learn about their heroic roles in the resistance against Chinese invasions. By 12:00 PM, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
3
At 1:00 PM, continue the journey to Tam Coc Wharf, where you’ll board a traditional sampan boat and cruise along the scenic Ngo Dong River to explore the three famous caves of Tam Coc. Around 3:00 PM, enjoy a relaxing biking tour around the peaceful countryside of Tam Coc, followed by a refreshing Vietnamese tea break.
4
At 3:30 PM, visit Mua Cave, a spot famous for its legendary stories and breathtaking scenery. Climb nearly 500 stone steps to reach the summit, where you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Tam Coc, the Ngo Dong River, and the surrounding countryside. At 4:45 PM, return to the bus, and by 5:00 PM, begin the journey back to Hanoi.
5
Stop 5
Around 7:00 – 7:30 PM, arrive back in Hanoi and get dropped off at your hotel in the Old Quarter. Tour ends – thank you for joining us!
What's not included
Beverages, Personal Expenses,
Holiday Surcharge , Tips for guide & driver are appreciated
Available languages
Guide guide
VI
EN
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
If outside, please come to Hanoi Opera House 01 Trang Tien
About Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.
Top Attractions
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Hanoi Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, shopping and dining vary
Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.
Historical
1-2 hours
30,000 VND
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.
Architecture
1-2 hours for a performance
Varies by event
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Bun Cha
Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Snack/Lunch
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Egg Coffee
A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.
Drink
Contains eggs and dairy
Popular Activities
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
Trekking in Sapa
Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake
Coffee at a local café
Exploring the Temple of Literature
Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay
Egg coffee tasting
Best Time to Visit
October to December
This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
- • Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.
Getting there
By air
- Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center
By train
Hanoi Railway Station
By bus
Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Quarter
French Quarter
Ba Dinh District
Tay Ho District
Day trips
Ha Long Bay
165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight
Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.
Ninh Binh
90 km from Hanoi • Full day
Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.
Sapa
320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day
Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.
Festivals
Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar)
Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
- Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
- Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
- Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
- Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
