Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Trang An Boat & Mua Cave Day Tour
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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
Explore the historical and natural wonders of Ninh Binh on this full-day tour from Hanoi. Start by discovering Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, where you'll visit the temples of past kings and delve into the rich history with a local guide. Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local goat meat specialties, with vegetarian options available. Uncover the beauty of Trang An on a serene boat ride through stunning cave systems and sacred temples. Conclude the day by climbing 500 steps to Mua Cave for breathtaking views of the Tam Coc landscape.
- Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 10th century
- Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local specialties and vegetarian options
- Take a scenic boat ride through the natural heritage site of Trang An
- Climb Mua Cave for panoramic views of the stunning Tam Coc area
Available options
Limousine Bus 17–23 Seats
Limousine Bus 17–23 Seats: ✅Medium-sized group experience (17 to 23 passengers): Travel in comfort on a Premium Limousine Bus.<br/>Pickup included
Budget Option: 32s Shuttle Bus
32-Seater Shuttle Bus: ✅ Includes round-trip comfortable Shuttle Bus transfer — an air-conditioned 32-seat vehicle from Hanoi Old Quarter. <br/>Pickup included
VIP 9 - 11 Seater Limousine
VIP 9 - 11 Seater Limousine: ✅ Enjoy a premium small-group experience with our VIP 9 - 11 seater limousine. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fee
English speaking guide
Lunch
Pick up & drop off in Old Quater area by limousine transfer.
Mineral water on the bus
Detailed itinerary
1
10h00- 10h30: Arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, visit the King temples. Under the introduction of our local guide, you will get to know more about the Vietnamese history.
Relax before lunch:
- A short bike ride with tour guide : Get on a bike and start cycling to explore the beautiful scenery and limestone mountains with a unique route (optional and free of charge)
- If you don't wish to cycle, feel free to explore the village on foot or rest at a local restaurant.
2
12h00: Enjoy buffet lunch at a local restaurant – goat meat dishes is the local specialty
( Vegetarian foods are avaiable )
13h30: Arrive Trang An and spend about 1h40 - 2 hours exploring Trang An– the core of natural heritage in a Sampan boat (4 people per boat), rowed by a local people. Explore the amazing cave tunnel system and passing through sacred temples associated with legends in the history of Trang An.
3
15:30 - 16:00: Get back to the Bus then leave for Mua Cave. Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain & have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Drinks for lunch
Tipping for tour guide & driver
Or anything is not mentioned above
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please wait in front of the main entrance of Hanoi Train Station.
We will send you the bus number and tour guide number the evening before departure.
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
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