5 (4214)
Hanoi
Ninh Binh Full-Day Tour: Boat, Bike & Caves from Hanoi
Overview
Escape the busy city on a full-day adventure to Ninh Binh! This tour takes you to the heart of rural Vietnam, where you'll discover peaceful landscapes and historical sites. See the Hanoi Old Quarter & Hanoi Opera House before journeying into the countryside.
What to Expect: Explore Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, and learn about the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. Enjoy a tasty local lunch with goat meat and fried rice. Take a boat trip in Tam Coc, known as "Halong Bay on Land," and marvel at the stunning scenery. Cycle through a local village and see how the people live. For the adventurous, climb to Mua Cave for amazing views of Tam Coc, rice fields, and villages.
This tour includes bus rides from Hanoi, a local lunch, and an English-speaking guide. Please note that entrance fees for Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, and Tam Coc are not included and are optional. Small water is provided on the bus, along with bikes for cycling. Discover the beauty of Ninh Binh and make new friends! 
Highlights
Explore Ancient Capital Hoa Lu: Discover Vietnam's history at the ancient capital under the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties.
Tam Coc Boat Trip: See the breathtaking views of Tam Coc, also called "Halong Bay on Land," from a traditional boat.
Bike Ride Through Villages: Cycle through peaceful villages and experience the daily life of local people.
Mua Cave Mountain Climb: Climb to Mua Cave for panoramic views of Tam Coc, rice fields, and surrounding villages.
Delicious Local Lunch: Enjoy a tasty lunch with local foods like goat meat and fried rice.
Hassle-Free Transport: Round-trip bus transport from Hanoi, so you don't have to worry!
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the beautiful scenery, especially the boat ride in Tam Coc.
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Many enjoyed the bike ride through the villages and the climb to Mua Cave for the views.
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The guides were often praised for being friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.
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The lunch was generally well-received, with many saying it was delicious and a good opportunity to try local food.
Some found the vendors at Tam Coc pushy and aggressive with tipping requests.
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A few mentioned that the cycling may not be suitable for everyone, especially in hot weather or if they are not confident riders.
The Journey
Hanoi Old Quarter & Hanoi Opera House
Begin your adventure in the heart of Hanoi, with convenient morning pickups from hotels within the historic Old Quarter or near the elegant Hanoi Opera House. The Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and traditional shops, offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant past, while the Opera House stands as a testament to French colonial architecture, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Vietnam.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Journey back in time to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam between 968 and 1010. Immerse yourself in the nation's feudal history as you explore the remnants of this once-thriving center of power, under the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. Discover the historical significance of this site, where pivotal moments in Vietnamese history unfolded, shaping the nation's identity and cultural heritage.
Rural Village near Tam Coc
Experience the authentic rural life of Vietnam with a leisurely cycling tour around a traditional village near Tam Coc. Pedal through picturesque landscapes, observing the daily routines of local people and gaining insights into their way of life. This optional and complimentary activity offers a unique opportunity to connect with the culture and beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. For those who prefer not to cycle, a relaxing stroll through the village provides alternative ways to capture the charm of rural Vietnam.
Local Restaurant near Tam Coc
Savor the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant near Tam Coc. Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties like goat meat and fried rice, offering a true taste of the area's culinary heritage. Vegetarian options are readily available, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all. This meal provides a moment to relax and refuel amidst the day's adventures, immersing yourself in the local gastronomy.
Tam Coc (Three Caves)
Embark on a serene 1.5-hour bamboo boat journey through Tam Coc, often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land.' Be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of lush paddy fields, winding rivers, and majestic limestone karsts. Glide through the three natural caves – Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba – marveling at the intricate formations carved by nature over millennia. Experience the tranquility and awe-inspiring beauty that make Tam Coc a must-see destination in Vietnam.
Mua Cave & Lying Dragon Mountain
Challenge yourself with a climb up nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain at Mua Cave. Ascend to a panoramic viewpoint offering unparalleled vistas of Tam Coc and its surrounding landscapes. From this vantage point, witness the stunning tapestry of rice paddies, meandering rivers, and towering karst formations that define the region's iconic beauty. Capture unforgettable photos and create lasting memories of this remarkable natural wonder.
Hanoi Hotel Drop-off
Conclude your unforgettable day trip with a comfortable bus ride back to Hanoi. Relax and reflect on the incredible experiences and sights you encountered throughout the day. Arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi in the late evening, filled with cherished memories of ancient capitals, breathtaking landscapes, and the vibrant culture of northern Vietnam.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes small water on the bus and an English-speaking guide. Bikes are provided, but please be confident in cycling or weigh under 175lbs. Contact in advance to confirm pickup. The tour excludes beverages, drinks, and optional entrance fees: Hoa Lu (0.8USD), Mua Cave (4USD), and Tam Coc boat trip (10USD). A surcharge of 10USD applies on Lunar New Year: Feb 16-20, 2026. The experience includes bus transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter and a local buffet lunch.
Hot Tip
Some people say the boat ride can be long and the vendors can be pushy. Bring small bills if you plan to buy anything, and be firm if you don't want to buy. Also, wear comfortable shoes for the bike ride and climb to Mua Cave!
Review Summary
People usually say the Ninh Binh Full-Day Tour is well-organized, with knowledgeable guides and a good mix of activities including boat rides, cycling, and hiking. Travelers appreciate the scenic views and local lunch, but some mention that the Hoa Lu temple entrance fee is not always included and that the pace can be fast, with limited time at each site.
Frequently Asked Questions
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