Ninh Binh in One Day: Best Itinerary for Authentic Experience

By Tracy Tran - December 9, 2024
Ninh Binh in One Day: Best Itinerary for Authentic Experience

One day in Ninh Binh can be enough for an authentic tour. Check out our suggested itinerary for a perfect Ninh Binh day trip.


Ninh Binh in one day offers a captivating experience that blends Vietnam's rich history with stunning natural landscapes. Located among towering karst formations and lush greenery rice paddies, Ninh Binh provides a perfect escape from Hanoi's hustle and bustle life. This itinerary serves as an ideal guide for discovering the region's authentic highlights, including ancient relics and breathtaking caves. A journey through Ninh Binh in one day promises an unforgettable exploration of cultural and natural wonders.

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1. What to See in Ninh Binh 

Ninh Binh is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage, making it a treasure trove for travelers seeking an authentic experience. 

ninh binh in one day

For travelers who are passionate about natural beauty, Ninh Binh offers some wonderful options:

  • Tam Coc: Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc features enchanting rice fields and stunning limestone caves that can be explored by boat.
  • Mua Cave: This Ninh Binh attraction is known for its breathtaking panoramic views from the summit with widespread green rice fields of Tam Coc and the iconic limestone karst formations. 
  • Trang An Scenic Landscape: Recognized as a UNESCO Heritage site, Trang An is famous for its winding waterways and impressive karst landscapes, making it ideal for serene boat rides.
  • Thung Nham: This beautiful valley is famous for its natural splendor and bird park, where visitors can observe a variety of bird species.
  • Thien Ha Cave: This cave features stunning stalactite formations and a serene river, which is perfect for a unique underground adventure.
  • Cuc Phuong National Park: This national park is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, ancient trees, and wildlife, which is ideal for nature enthusiasts.
  • Van Long Nature Reserve: This tranquil wetland is home to diverse wildlife and offers a peaceful atmosphere for kayaking and birdwatching.

ninh binh in one day

For those interested in exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of Ninh Binh, the region has many fascinating sites to visit:

  • Bich Dong Pagoda: This ancient pagoda lies amidst the hill, offering a tranquil setting and beautiful architecture.
  • Dinh & Le Temples: These temples are dedicated to the founders of Vietnam's first dynasty and hold significant historical and cultural importance.
  • Thai Vi Temple: This temple is dedicated to the worship of the national heroes of Vietnam and is located in a scenic area, providing visitors with both spiritual and visual experiences.
  • Bai Dinh Pagoda: Known for its grandeur, this complex is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Vietnam, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.
  • Phat Diem Church: This church is known for a striking architectural marvel that reflects the blend of Eastern and Western influences in its design.
  • Saint Nguyen Temple: Renowned for its unique architecture, this temple is a place of worship that highlights the local culture and traditions.
  • Thung La Temple: Positioned in a picturesque setting, this temple offers insights into the spiritual practices of the local people and their deep cultural roots.
  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Once the capital of Vietnam, this historical site features ancient temples and remnants that tell the story of the country’s past.

2. Suggested Itinerary for Ninh Binh One-Day Trip

8:00 AM: Visiting Hoa Lu, the Ancient Capital of Vietnam

Your day trip starts from Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. A trip to Hoa Lu will provide a unique insight into Vietnam’s imperial history, showcasing the beauty and importance of this ancient capital. Moving through the area, you can admire the serenity, picturesque surroundings, and all it turns into a tranquil and profound atmosphere.

The temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties are two major symbols of the early state of Vietnam. Each temple is decorated with intricate carvings and detailed artwork, which provide information about the architectural styles typical in those times. Such meticulous craftsmanship reflects the artistic ability and deep respect for the monarchy that ancient Vietnamese builders displayed.

hoa lu ancient capital one day ninh binh

Visitors can also explore the surrounding landscapes, consisting of karst limestone mountains and rice fields that will add grandeur to the scenery of the surroundings. These natural elements complement the historic temples, creating fascinating scenery for photography and meditation. The peaceful environment allows for a slow exploration in order for time to stand still and appreciate the deep history that rests within each structure.

For those interested in deeper immersion into local culture, nearby traditional craft villages boast certain lines of work passed on generation by generation. The interaction with local artisans gives a good opportunity to understand the techniques and materials used in their work, connecting the past with the present and enriching your visit to Hoa Lu.

Read more: Top 5 Craft Villages to Visit in Ninh Binh

9:00 AM: Heading to Thung Nham Bird Park

Thung Nham Bird Park is an excellent place to visit for nature lovers and people who want to relax in tranquil nature. Visitors can take a peaceful boat ride through the maze of waterways for a different viewpoint of outstanding natural beauty. The boats glide slowly and noiselessly, enabling guests to see many species of birds, especially at the time of the migration season when the park puts on a colorful display of avian life.

A walk through the park will reveal a variety of flora and fauna, as well as a picture postcard ideal for bird-watching and photography. For anyone interested in botany, the rich vegetation with its variety of plant species offers such a great chance for an educational experience.

thung nham bird park ninh binh in one day

Among the trips to Thung Nham, visitors should not miss a tour of natural caves sprinkled within the area. Every cave maintains a uniqueness in rock formation and cool and serene environments that welcome enterprises and curiosity. These geological wonders give insight into the natural history of the region and are an exciting adventure waiting for curious travelers.

Going to Thung Nham Bird Park is a lot more than just going out into nature; it's about entering a world of peace that is also naturally beautiful. 

12:00 PM: Have Lunch at a Local Restaurant

com chay ninh binh

Then, refresh your energy by having a break for lunch at a local restaurant. Ninh Binh has a lot of specialties that you should not miss. Goat meat is a must-try, often served grilled or in a fragrant noodle dish called “bun de”. Then you also have to try “com chay”, which is the crispy burnt rice, or some tasty steamed snails for a unique flavor experience. Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables and herbs also make a refreshing choice. 

Read more: 10 Best Ninh Binh Food and Specialties

2:00 PM: Admiring the Serene Beauty of Thien Ha Cave

After lunch, you will visit Thien Ha Cave (Galaxy Cave). This is a well-known cave with the beauty of stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have created an amazing underground landscape through thousands of years. Visitors can take a guided tour into the cave to learn more about its geological history and the cave’s structure. The cave is divided into two parts: a dry section and a flooded section, forming a network of corridors that spans 700 meters and covers an area of nearly 12,000 square meters, comparable to the famous Sung Sot Cave in Ha Long Bay

one day in ninh binh thien ha cave

While going through the cave, you’ll encounter various chambers, each with its own character. In addition to cave exploration, visitors can enjoy kayaking in the surrounding waters. Boat rides also give tourists a great view of the natural beauty above ground, with lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs framing the scene. This combination of adventure and tranquility makes Thien Ha Cave a highlight for any authentic trip to Ninh Binh.

4:00 PM: Ending the Memorable Ninh Binh Day Trip with Mua Cave

Mua Cave is a stunning destination known for its panoramic breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes. Visitors need to conquer about 500 stone steps to the summit of the hill, but the effort is well worth it. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to the picturesque beauty of Ninh Binh, with lush rice fields and towering limestone mountains sprawling out before you. The viewpoint at the peak offers a fantastic place for photos, capturing the essence of Vietnam's rural charm. Once arrive the top, visitors can explore the impressive stone carvings and statues that pay homage to the region’s cultural heritage.

mua cave ninh binh in one day

For those looking for more adventure, the surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking and exploration, with trails leading through the karst landscapes. 

Visiting Mua Cave not only provides an exhilarating journey but also a chance to connect deeply with the scenic and historical splendor of Ninh Binh.

Conclusion

If you have limited time but still want to have an authentic experience, an off-the-beaten-path itinerary for Ninh Binh one-day trip is unmissable. We hope our itinerary above can help you plan your trip perfectly. If you have any questions about Ninh Binh tours, IZITOUR can help! Feel free to leave a comment below, or contact us directly via email: sm@izitour.com or Whatsapp: +84 382 536 266 for instant assistance.

Ninh Binh Day Trips with Prices

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Tracy Tran
Marketing Executive
As a seasoned Marketing Executive at IZITOUR, I want to bring my knowledge and a deep love for travel to my articles. I aim to provide readers with insightful tips and the latest travel trends, ensuring each journey is as unique and enjoyable as possible.

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