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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Another 2-hour journey back to Hanoi after the tour