Prior to 944, Ninh Binh was known as Hoa Lu. Previously a small area, Hoa Lu became Vietnam’s capital when King Dinh Bo Linh established the country citadel here in 968. But it didn’t last long. In 1010, King Ly Thai To of the Ly dynasty decided to move the country’s capital to Thang Long (Hanoi nowadays), and Hoa Lu has since become Vietnam’s ancient capital.
Today, Ninh Binh offers various things to eat, see, and do. The province’s history and culture can be appreciated in Hoa Lu temple or Bai Dinh Pagoda. On the other hand, a sampan boat ride along rivers to visit Trang An grottoes or Tam Coc would be the perfect way to admire Ninh Binh’s beauty.
Ninh Binh Travel Guide
General Info
Everything you should know before traveling
Getting there
Choose your right transportations
Where to stay
Choose your best area to stay in Ninh Binh
Travel around
Check out best way to travel around attractions
Where to eat
Sample selected Ninh Binh specialties
Time to visit
Find out the best time with nice weather
History
Learn about the original of Ninh Binh
Tours & Tickets
Book 100 + tours and tickets in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh Attractions
From the stunning natural of Trang An Landscape Complex to the vibriant history of Bich Dong Pagoda, exploring top attractions that travelers love the most in Ninh Binh!
Why Ninh Binh ?
Scenery
From the stunning limestone mountains to the poetic beauty of Tam Coc ride fields, Ninh Binh offers you a great mixture of natural and human-built beauty.
Culture Values
Once a capital of Vietnam more than 1000 years ago, Hoa Lu (or Ninh Binh nowaday) still preserve tons of historical relics, from pagodas, temples or even an ancient citadel.
Activities
Boat trip in Trang An, trekking in Cuc Phuong or visit Bear Sanctuary, you’ll never get bored visiting Ninh Binh!
Convenient
Situated 100 km from Hanoi, you could easily get to Ninh Binh in just 2 hours by bus, train or motorbike. With attractions close to each other, you could totally get a glimpse of the province in just 1 day!
Seasonal guides
Explore weather and what to do in Ninh Binh at different times of the year.
Ninh Binh Tours & Activities
- Featured
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave, Trang An Grottoes
- $50
- 1 days
- Featured
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes
- $40
- 1 days
- Featured
- Hoa Lu Ancient Temple, Mua Cave, Tam Coc
- $45
- 1 days
- Featured
- Featured
- Cuc Phuong National Park, Hoa Lu Ancient Temple, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Trang An Grottoes
- $120
- 1 days
- Featured
- Hoa Lu Ancient Temple, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Trang An Grottoes
- $120
- 1 days
- Featured
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes
- $100
- 1 days
- Featured
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes
- $100
- 1 days
- Featured
- Hoa Lu Ancient Temple, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Trang An Grottoes
- $120
- 1 days
- Featured
- Cuc Phuong National Park, Hoa Lu Ancient Temple, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Trang An Grottoes
- $120
- 1 days
- Featured
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave, Trang An Grottoes
- $50
- 1 days
- Featured
- Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes
- $40
- 1 days
Ninh Binh in the blogger's eyes
"Ancient temples, pagodas, and historic sites, such as the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, this small town is offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s fascinating history. If you want to experience and see more of the natural beauty of Vietnam and discover its rich cultural history, Ninh Binh is definitely a must-visit place! "
Ara Patria
"Ninh Binh has temples, pagodas, viewpoints, and stunning nature everywhere you look. There are some great things to do in Ninh Binh which is why I recommend checking it out. Here are some things you must do with 2 days in Ninh Binh!"
Chelsea Heidish
"Despite being touristy, Tam Coc is unique because of its rural life, the rocky hills, the river and the lush greenery everywhere. So for all those who want to get a glimpse of Vietnam that’s relatively untouched, Ninh Binh is the place to be"
Reshma Narasing
"The striking natural beauty is dotted with colorful temples and tucked-away resorts, making Ninh Binh a top destination in Vietnam. The best things to do in Ninh Binh – like boat tours and karst hikes – encompass the scenic terrain, but the region boasts fascinating cultural sights that are not to be missed"
Sara & Kris
The highlight of the Ninh Binh area are the various boat tours that take you through the scenery and caves. There are quite a few options to sort through, and various routes to choose from.
