Ninh Bình was one of our favorite places in Vietnam. It’s a small, quiet town surrounded by natural beauty and home to some of the country’s most important historical sites.

Know what you’re looking for? Click on a link below to skip to that section.

Where is Ninh Bình

Where is Ninh Bình

Ninh Bình is located in northern Vietnam, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Hanoi. Often called the “Hạ Long Bay on Land”, it features the same limestone karsts, but instead of rising from the sea, they tower over rice paddies and winding rivers.

Getting to Ninh Bình

Ninh Bình is easily accessible from Hanoi by private car, group transfer, bus, or train. The journey takes around one and a half to two hours by road. While getting there is straightforward, the town’s narrow streets, blind corners, and rougher roads outside of town can slow travel down.

When to visit

Spring

February to April

Spring is one of the best times to visit Ninh Bình. The rice fields begin to turn green and the weather is warm, but not too hot, averaging 22–30°C (72–86°F). It’s also the most popular season to visit, so expect crowds.

Summer

May to July

Summer in Ninh Bình is hot and humid, with sudden, short rain storms. Temperatures often rise above 32°C (90°F). If you can handle the heat, you’ll enjoy fewer tourists and stunning scenery, as the rice fields turn vibrant green or golden yellow.

Fall

August to October

Rain continues into October, but temperatures begin to drop, often falling below 25°C (80°F). While it’s still humid, this time of year sees fewer tourists than in spring.

Winter

November to January

Winter is the coolest and driest time of year, with temperatures ranging from 14–22°C (57–72°F). Misty mornings are common, and while it’s not as green as other seasons, you’ll enjoy a quieter experience with fewer crowds.

How long to stay

We regretted only having 24 hours to see Ninh Bình. Instead, stay for two to four days to see the best sights and have more time to relax.

Where to stay

You can stay in downtown Ninh Bình or Tac Coc for easy access to restaurants and quick Grab rides to major sights, or choose a more scenic, rural area just outside town. We stayed in the countryside and loved hearing monkeys in the karst mountains above our resort. Check out this blog to see where we stayed, as well as our top lodging recommendations in Ninh Bình.

Best activities

Ninh Bình is busy, but you can see the best sights without the crowds in the mornings. Choose what activities you value most, and do those first each day. Many of the sites are exposed, so bring sun protection and water.

Tràng An Landscape Complex

The Tràng An Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a mix of cultural and natural sites, including: Tràng An, Tam Coc, the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and Bich Dong Pagoda.

Tràng An

Tràng An is one of the most popular attractions in Ninh Bình. You’ll explore the area by hiring a rowboat to pass by huge limestone karsts, ancient pagodas, and several caves. The complex is large, and purchasing tickets is a bit confusing. Check out this blog for tips on how to navigate Tràng An with confidence.

Tam Coc

Tam Coc offers a similar experience, with rowboat rides through limestone karsts and rice fields. However, the rowers here use their feet to row, as is tradition. The area is generally less clean than Tràng An, and we’ve heard than some vendors can be pushy here, but it is the more budget-friendly option.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu was Vietnam’s capital in the 10th and 11th centuries and is one of Ninh Bình’s key historical sites. You can walk through well-preserved temples and gates surrounded by limestone mountains. It’s a small site and takes less than an hour to visit.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a small temple built into the side of a limestone mountain, and the contrast between architecture and nature is striking. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, it was the first mixed heritage site in Southeast Asia. The area is relatively small and takes less than an hour to explore.

Thang Nham Bird Garden

This bird sanctuary is a great addition to visiting the nearby Dich Dong Pagoda. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to see the birds nesting and enjoy shaded walks on the riverside bamboo bridges to the viewing platform.

Thai Vi Temple short walk away

Thai Vi Temple is a quiet, historic site located a short walk from Tam Coc. Surrounded by rice fields and limestone cliffs, the temple is a peaceful stop between attractions.

Alternative boat rides

Galaxy Grotto

Although it’s farther away from Ninh Bình than the other boat attractions, Galaxy Grotto is a lesser known gem. Visit for a more secluded guided experience rowing, walking through caves, and spotting wildlife.

Van Long nature reserve

Van Long Nature Reserve is a quiet wetland area located about 10 kilometers from Ninh Bình. Take a guided boat tour to enjoy its calm rivers, limestone karsts, and look for wildlife, including rare primates.

500 Steps and Mau Cave

Don’t be confused if you see these two sights named interchangeably. They are at the same location. We’d suggest hiking up the 500 steps to “Dragon Mountain” and the Pagoda first, then wander the area to find Mau Cave, and the lotus pond after. You’ll find more tips on the hike here.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam and a major pilgrimage site. It features hundreds of statues, towering temples, and the tallest Buddha statue in the country. Visitors can explore both the ancient and modern sections of the complex. The site is large, but electric carts are available to help you get around for a fee.

Bike

We thoroughly enjoyed walking through Ninh Bình, but if you have more time, rent bikes and explore the area. We explored roads right outside of town and saw beautiful rice fields, locals fishing, and beautiful views.

What to pack

Check out our Vietnam packing list for tips on what to bring in every season.

Where to go next

Hanoi

Ninh Bình is just under 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Hanoi. Fly in and out of this hub, or use it as a stopping point before moving on to your next destination.

Hạ Long Bay

Hạ Long Bay is 200 kilometers (125 miles) from Ninh Bình. While it’s often compared to Ninh Bình, the two offer very different experiences. Check out our guide on how to choose the right Hạ Long Bay cruise for your travel style here.