Things To Do
in Ninh Bình
Ninh Binh is a picturesque province in northern Vietnam known for its stunning karst landscapes and tranquil countryside. Visitors can explore the famous Tam Coc and Trang An river areas by boat, passing through limestone caves and lush rice paddies. The area is also home to historic sites such as Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and Bich Dong Pagoda, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.
Ninh Binh is a popular destination for nature lovers and travelers seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling cities.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start the day with a bike ride through the picturesque rural landscape of Ninh Bình. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings as you explore quaint villages and rice paddies.
Visit the impressive Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, where you can take a boat ride through limestone karsts and lush greenery. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery and visit ancient temples along the way.
Savor a delicious local dinner at a nearby restaurant, featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Take a stroll around the quiet town to explore shops and soak up the evening ambiance.
Take a morning boat trip along the Tam Coc River, famed for its stunning limestone caves. The calm waters and surrounding nature create a peaceful experience.
Visit the nearby Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled on the hills for a scenic view. Enjoy some quiet time in this serene setting and capture stunning photographs.
Return to your hotel for a restful evening or venture out to a local market to try some street food. Enjoy a relaxing evening while mingling with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including karst mountains and rivers.
- Rich cultural heritage with ancient temples and pagodas.
- Less touristy compared to other destinations in Vietnam, providing a more authentic experience.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boat tours.
- Delicious local cuisine that reflects traditional Vietnamese flavors.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent or convenient.
- Some attractions may be difficult to access without a vehicle.
- Weather can be hot and humid during summer months.
- Language barrier may exist as English is not widely spoken among locals.
Best Activities in Ninh Bình
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Boat tour through caves and limestone karsts with beautiful scenery.
Scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River with stunning limestone cliffs and rice paddies.
Visit the ancient capital of Vietnam, a historic site with temples and ruins surrounded by beautiful landscape.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna, hiking trails, and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ninh Bình with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ninh Bình
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding karst landscape
Boat tours through limestone karsts and river valleys with stunning natural scenery
Known for its picturesque karst formations and scenic boat rides
Food in Ninh Bình
Ninh Bình Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A crispy rice dish served with grilled pork or goat meat, dipped in a flavorful sauce. Best enjoyed at local eateries in Tam Coc and surrounding villages.
Must-Try!
A unique salad made with gecko meat mixed with herbs, lime, and chili, showcasing the region's unconventional delicacies. Look for it at authentic local restaurants.
A rich crab noodle soup, featuring vermicelli, crab meat, and a tantalizing broth infused with tomatoes. Found at eateries near Ninh Binh's markets or along main streets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ninh Bình better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this vibrant market to explore a plethora of street food stalls offering local specialties like grilled skewers, rice cakes, and seafood dishes. It's a hub of authentic flavors and bustling atmosphere.
This bustling market is renowned for its fresh produce, meats, and a variety of street food options. Indulge in dishes like grilled corn, snails, and fresh fruit, all showcasing the region's culinary diversity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ninh Bình, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language and gestures, such as bowing or using two hands to present or receive items.
When visiting temples or more rural areas, it is appreciated to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees out of respect for local cultural norms.
It's a common practice in Ninh Bình, and Vietnam in general, to remove shoes before entering someone's home as a sign of respect for the cleanliness of the living space.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ninh Bình with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ninh Bình
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Ninh Bình, Vietnam. It is not expected at restaurants, hotels, or for taxi services.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Ninh Bình, Vietnam. Credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller establishments and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ninh Bình.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather and stunning landscapes with lush greenery and blooming flora. Perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers. Ideal for exploring caves and water-based activities, although it can be crowded with tourists.
Great time to visit for pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage. It's also the harvest season, so visitors can witness local life and participate in harvesting activities.
Cool and sometimes foggy weather, but perfect for peaceful boat rides and enjoying the quiet beauty of the region. Fewer tourists make it a great time for a tranquil visit.
Ninh Bình at Night
Hiking in Ninh Bình
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Tam Cốc is famous for its stunning limestone karsts and rice paddies, and offers picturesque hiking opportunities. You can explore the trails leading through the unique landscapes.
This UNESCO World Heritage site features numerous hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, limestone mountains, and beautiful rivers, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Located a bit further from Ninh Bình, Cúc Phương is Vietnam's first national park. It offers a variety of hiking trails through dense rainforest, rich biodiversity, and scenic views.
Near Ninh Bình, Mua Caves provide climbing opportunities with panoramic views over the area. The hike to the top includes a series of stairs and caves, rewarding hikers with breathtaking scenery.
The historical site of Hoa Lư features beautiful landscapes and some gentle hiking paths amongst ancient temples and historical relics nestled between limestone mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ninh Bình through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ninh Bình by plane.
Located in Hanoi, approximately 120 kilometers from Ninh Bình, this is the largest international airport serving the northern region of Vietnam.
Situated in Hai Phong, about 130 kilometers from Ninh Bình, this international airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Planned to be located nearer to Ninh Bình, this upcoming airport aims to enhance air travel in the northern region of Vietnam.
Located in Hue, approximately 200 kilometers from Ninh Bình. This airport serves the central region and offers international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, comprising a significant portion of the population in Ninh Bình.
An ethnic group that has a presence in the mountainous regions of Ninh Bình.
An ethnic group closely related to the Kinh, found in some areas of Ninh Bình.
Another ethnic minority, mostly residing in the northern regions of Vietnam, including parts of Ninh Bình.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups that may reside in Ninh Bình.
The Soul of Ninh Bình
Discover the essence of Ninh Bình through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Ninh Bình, with many local teams and a strong following among fans.
Badminton is a widely played sport in Ninh Bình, enjoyed by people of all ages, with various clubs and competitions.
Table tennis is popular in schools and community centers, often played recreationally as well as competitively.
Traditional martial arts and modern styles are practiced widely, showcasing Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.
Billiards is a common leisure activity in Ninh Bình, with many local players enjoying casual and competitive matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ninh Bình.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ninh Binh's cuisine is predominantly meat-based, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in tourist-friendly areas. Look for establishments willing to customize dishes to suit dietary preferences.
Navigating gluten-free options may require some communication with local eateries to ensure dishes are free from gluten-containing ingredients. Opt for rice-based dishes and inquire about preparation methods to accommodate gluten restrictions.