Hoa Lu - Tam Coc: Boat Trip and Bicycle Ride

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hoa Lu - Tam Coc: Boat Trip and Bicycle Ride

Active

(100 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

After only 2 hours driving, you will leave the hectic city of Hanoi behind to enjoy the peaceful scenery of the countryside. Hoa Lu Temple, which used to be the ancient capital of Vietnam during 10th and 11th centuries, is now dedicated to worshiping King Dinh and Le. You will then enjoy a boat trip in Tam Coc's river, with both sides covered in rice fields, on a traditional sampan boat skillfully rowed by the locals and ride a bicycle across rice fields to watch farmers working. This is a day trip from Hanoi that brings you a combined experience of Vietnam history and natural beauty featuring the best of Ninh Binh and a diversity of activities.

Available options

Hoa Lu - Tam Coc: Boat Trip and Bicycle Ride

Pickup included

What's included

Professional English-speaking guide

Buffet lunch

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Air-conditioned vehicle

1 bottle of water per person

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

We pick up customers in Hanoi Old Quarter between 8:00 - 8:35 am. (Drop-off service included)

=> Hotels in Quan Thanh, Nguyen Truong To, and Hang Bun: Pickup service between 7:30 - 7:45 am. Drop off services are not included.

=> Hotels outside the above area => Please go to the Opera House front (1 Trang Tien) at 8:30 am to meet the bus and guide.

Depart for Ninh Binh after collecting all participants.

Stop 2

In the morning, visit Hoa Lu temple and learn about Vietnamese history.

12:00 pm: Have a buffet lunch with Vietnamese food and Ninh Binh traditional goat meat. The meal is provided without drinks. Drinks are ordered from and paid directly to the restaurant as in the menu. Have a short break before the trip continues.

Stop 3

In the afternoon, enjoy a sampan boat trip of 1-2 hours along Ngo Dong river, a famous icon of Tam Coc and Vietnam's natural beauty to travelers from all over the world. Tam Coc also belongs to Trang An complex, a UNESCO world heritage site. Then take a bicycle ride to explore the rice fields watching farmers working.

Stop 4 Pass by

4:00 pm, return to the bus to go back to Hanoi.

6:00 - 7:00 pm, drop off at your hotel in the Old Quarter. The trip ends.

What's not included

Drinks

Gratuities

Buffalo ride for photo taking.

Hotel pickup and drop-off (outside of the Old Quarter, Hanoi)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

96 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Dress code is casual, sporty.

Meeting point

Hotels outside the Old Quarter, please go to the Opera House at 07:50am to meet up.

Important notes

• Dress code is casual, sporty.

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.