A Week in Ninh Binh: Budget-Friendly Adventures

Ninh Binh is the perfect spot to experience the best of Vietnam, going beyond just beautiful scenery. With minimal tourism, exciting rural adventures, and easy access just a few hours by train or bus from Hanoi, it’s a hidden gem. It’s also very affordable, with no pricey attractions, great value transport, and high-quality food and accommodation for the price.

Among all the places we’ve visited in Vietnam, Ninh Binh was one of our favorites for simply relaxing. During our most recent visit, we enjoyed a wonderful, spontaneous week. We spent our days exploring on scooters, enjoying tasty food, and taking in the stunning landscape – all while staying within our budget!

This Ninh Binh itinerary and guide includes everything we learned during our time there, covering logistics, prices, activities, and more.

Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh

Our guide will pick you up at the airport and drive you to Ninh Binh.
Check into your accommodation upon arrival.
Spend the afternoon exploring the local area and enjoy a relaxing meal at a nearby restaurant.

Day 2: Trang An Boat Tour

Take a relaxing boat tour through the stunning caves and karst landscapes of Trang An.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river.
Spend the evening wandering around Ninh Binh town and try some local dishes.

Day 3: Tam Coc Exploration

Take a bike and ride through the picturesque rice fields to Tam Coc.
Enjoy a boat ride through Tam Coc’s beautiful waterways.
Visit Bich Dong Pagoda and relax in the serene surroundings.

Day 4: Cuc Phuong National Park

Take a day trip to Cuc Phuong National Park for hiking and nature exploration.
Discover diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery at your own pace.
Return to Ninh Binh and enjoy a quiet evening.

Day 5: Mua Cave and Views

Visit Mua Cave and climb the steps for a panoramic view of the countryside.
Spend the rest of the day leisurely exploring the nearby villages and rice fields.
Relax at a local café.

Day 6: Vân Long Nature Reserve

Head to Vân Long Nature Reserve for a tranquil boat ride and wildlife spotting.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take plenty of photos.
Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps visiting the local night market.

Day 7: Departure

Relax on your last day, perhaps visiting any spots you missed earlier.
Enjoy one final meal of local cuisine before departing Ninh Binh.

This itinerary lets you savor the beauty and tranquility of Ninh Binh at a relaxed pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture. If you’re interested in this tour, feel free to reach out to Vietnam Private Tours to arrange your experience!

Start planning your trip to Vietnam

Start imagining your experience! These itineraries offer ideas for activities based on our specialists’ recommendations. They’re just for inspiration, as your trip will be tailored to your preferences.