What to do in Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh, known as "Halong Bay on land," is a top Vietnam destination for breathtaking karst landscapes, ancient history, and rural scenery. Key activities include taking a boat ride in Trang An or Tam Coc, climbing the 500 steps to Mua Cave for panoramic views, exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, and cycling through the paddy fields.

What not to miss in Ninh Binh?

Top things to do in Ninh Binh include exploring the UNESCO-listed Trang An caves, hiking Hang Mua for panoramic views, visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, and cruising through the scenic rivers of Tam Coc.

How many days are needed in Ninh Binh?

Most people stay 2–3 nights, which is enough to see Tam Coc, Trang An boat ride, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave viewpoint, and even cycle around the countryside. If you stay longer, you'll have more time to relax and enjoy the quiet side of Vietnam, but you could also use an extra night for Hanoi or Halong Bay.

Is Ninh Binh City worth visiting?

Ninh Binh is definitely worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Often referred to as the ``Halong Bay on land,'' it features dramatic limestone mountains, winding rivers, and lush rice fields.

What to do for 2 days in Ninh Binh?

Are 2 days enough to explore Ninh Binh? Yes, 2 days are ideal for seeing highlights like Trang An, Tam Coc, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Mua Caves, with time for boat rides and bike trips.

Ninh Binh Vietnam Travel Guide: 11 BEST Things To Do In Ninh Binh

When to avoid Ninh Binh?

While Ninh Binh is visitable year-round, there are certain times that might negatively impact your trip.

• August to early September (Typhoon Season): Northern Vietnam is prone to typhoons during this window. ...
• Vietnamese New Year (Tet): Usually falling in late January or early February.

Is $1000 enough for 2 weeks in Vietnam?

On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $49 per day in Vietnam. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and miscellaneous expenses. So expect to spend around $700 for 2 weeks in Vietnam. Including airfares, your 2 weeks in Vietnam could cost about $1700 – $2500 per person.

How to dress in Ninh Binh?

When visiting Ninh Binh's sacred temples and pagodas, wearing modest clothing is essential to show respect. Covering your shoulders and knees is a common practice, and loose-fitting attire ensures both comfort and cultural sensitivity.

Do I need cash in Ninh Binh?

Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, particularly in tourist areas. However, it's recommended to have cash on hand as some places may not accept cards or may charge an additional fee for using them.

Which is better to visit, Sapa or Ninh Binh?

It depends on your style. Ninh Binh is perfect if you love boat rides, caves, and easy sightseeing. Sapa is best if you enjoy trekking, mountains, and meeting ethnic minority groups.

What is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

The temperatures in Ninh Binh are ideal from March to May and September to November. For the finest views, go during harvest season in October. If you visit in the hotter months from July to August, be prepared for random downpours and stormy moments.

Do I need malaria tablets for Ninh Binh?

In some areas of Vietnam, there is a low risk of malaria. This includes:Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Binh Phuoc, western parts of Phu Yen, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan, north west Lai Chau;Malaria tablets are not usually recommended but insect bite avoidance is essential.

What food to try in Ninh Binh?

2. 8 Ninh Binh specialties to eat immediately or buy as gifts

• 2.1. Crispy rice. ...
• 2.2. Mountain snail. ...
• 2.3. Yen Mac sour pork roll. ...
• 2.4. Kim Son Wine. ...
• 2.5. Nho Quan rice wine. ...
• 2.6. Dried goat meat marinated with garlic. ...
• 2.7. Dong Giao Pineapple. ...
• 2.8. Gia Vien shrimp paste.

Are shorts allowed in Ninh Binh?

You can still wear something stylish and comfortable, just be mindful of respecting the religious sites. In Hoa Lu, the site provides you with a cover if you wear shorts. Wear long pants or skirts that cover your knees.

How do I prepare my stomach for Vietnam?

Many travelers experience no stomach troubles on a visit to Vietnam. Still, it's a good idea to keep diarrhea medicine with you. If you're feeling uncertain, there are medications like Travelan that you can take before a meal. Rehydration salts and Pepto-Bismol can help alleviate symptoms faster.

How much is 1 pound to a dong?

£ 1 GBP = ₫ 35236.8239 VND

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 13:53. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What can I buy with 5,000 dong in Vietnam?

Street Snacks - A Paradise Starting from Just 5,000 Vietnamese Dong. Banh trang tron, bubble tea, fried fermented pork rolls, Vietnamese sweet soup (che thap cam)… all can be found for just 5,000 to 25,000 Vietnamese Dong per item. With 100,000 Vietnamese Dong, you can enjoy a true “street food buffet” experience!

Is it better to take cash or card to Vietnam?

Upon arriving in Vietnam, you'll want to have some cash in the local currency. You can find ATMs accepting international cards just outside the arrival gates at all major airports. ATMs are a common sight in Vietnamese cities, and you should have no trouble locating one in most destinations.

Is $50 a lot in Vietnam?

For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you'll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms. For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs.

Is Vietnam cheap for the UK?

For UK visitors, Vietnam is considered to be a relatively cheap destination to travel to. The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low, and this is reflected in the prices of food, accommodation and transport.