Planning the Perfect 2-Day Ninh Binh Itinerary

Located in the heart of Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical significance. So, why not check out the perfect 2-day itinerary to Ninh Binh to make the most of your visit? Often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land”, the province offers stunning landscapes, ancient temples, and a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. Discover your 2-day trip to Ninh Binh with Sun Getaways Travel now!

🥾 Day 1: Exploring Natural Wonders ᨒ ོ ☼

Morning: Tam Coc Boat Ride

Start your 2-day Ninh Binh trip with a peaceful boat ride through Tam Coc. Known as “Three Caves,” Tam Coc offers a magical journey through limestone karsts and lush rice paddies. The boat ride typically lasts around two hours, taking you through Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba caves. Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Late Morning: Bich Dong Pagoda

Just a short bike ride or drive from Tam Coc is Bich Dong Pagoda. This ancient pagoda, built into the mountainside, consists of three tiers: Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas. The climb to the top is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

🌟 Find more information:  Beauty of Lotus Season in Bich Dong Pagoda – Ninh Binh

Lunch: Local Cuisine

Let’s enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants in Tam Coc. Most tourists must experience the region’s specialty, goat meat, and other Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls and pho. I recommend eating as many specialties as possible and filling your 2-day Ninh Binh itinerary with culinary experiences!

🌟 Still don’t know what to eat in Ninh Binh? Discover here: Ninh Binh Food Guide: Must-Try Dishes & Local Specialties

Afternoon: Trang An Grottoes

After lunch, visitors will witness the beauty of Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Similar to Tam Coc but larger in scale, Trang An offers a boat tour through a network of caves and waterways. The tour lasts about three hours, showcasing the area’s stunning karst landscapes and ancient temples.

🌟 Find more information:  Trang An Landscape Complex: Unveiling the Best Sightseeing Spots

Evening: Sunset at Hang Mua

Conclude your 2-day itinerary with a hike up and witness the sunset of Hang Mua in Ninh Binh. The climb is steep, with over 500 steps, but the view from the top is worth every effort. You’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset over Tam Coc and the surrounding mountains.

🌟 Find more information: What Awaits at Mua Caves – Ninh Binh’s Great Wall?

Dinner: Ninh Binh City

At the end of day 1, you will return to Ninh Binh City for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sample more Vietnamese cuisine and reflect on the day’s adventures.

🥾 Day 2: Discovering Ancient Wonders ᨒ ོ ☼

Morning: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Start your second day with a visit to Hoa Lu in 2-day Ninh Binh itinerary, the ancient capital of Vietnam. This historical site dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries. You’ll explore the temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh, and learn about Vietnam’s rich history.

🌟 To know more about Hoa Lu, visit here: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: A Historical Discovery

Late Morning: Thung Nham Bird Garden

The next destination of the 2-day Ninh Binh itinerary is Thung Nham Bird Garden, a peaceful sanctuary home to thousands of birds. Most visitors should stroll through the gardens, take a boat ride to explore the caves and enjoy birdwatching in this tranquil setting.

Lunch: Local Delicacies

It’s time for lunch! My suggestion is to have lunch at a local restaurant near Thung Nham, Ninh Binh. Enjoy more delicious regional dishes, and maybe try some fresh fish from the local rivers.

Afternoon: Phat Diem Cathedral

In the afternoon, guests will visit Phat Diem Cathedral, an impressive blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles. This unique structure, built in the late 19th century, features intricate wood carvings and stone sculptures. Don’t miss this cultural experience on your Ninh Binh’s 2-day itinerary.

Late Afternoon: Van Long Nature Reserve

End your day 2-day itinerary with a visit to Van Long Nature Reserve in Ninh Binh. Let’s take a relaxing boat ride through this tranquil wetland, home to diverse flora and fauna. The reserve is known for its beautiful limestone mountains and the rare Delacour’s langur, a type of monkey native to the area.

Evening: Return to Hanoi

After the 2-day Ninh Binh trip, visitors will return to Hanoi. On that journey, you can reflect and share together about the unforgettable experiences and natural and historical wonders of Ninh Binh. On the other hand, you can spend time in the car to edit photos or write some things on social media after the memorable trip. Sun Getaways Travel believes that these are great evidence to remind you of the 2-day Ninh Binh trip in Vietnam.

💡 Tips for Your Trip

1. Transportation: Ninh Binh is about a 2-hour drive from Hanoi. You can rent a car, take a bus, or hire a private driver.
2. Accommodation: Consider staying in a homestay or a boutique hotel in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh City for an authentic experience.
3. What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are essential. Also, bring some cash as some small vendors may not accept credit cards.
4. Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and pagodas. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

With this 2-day Ninh Binh itinerary, you’ll experience the best of what this enchanting region has to offer. From its natural beauty to its ancient wonders, Ninh Binh is a destination that will leave you with lasting memories.

🌟 Find more information: Is Ninh Binh Worth Visiting? A Backpacker’s Perspective

❓FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?
   • The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season from late November to early April. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the outdoor attractions.
2. How can I get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi?
   • You can easily reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi by bus, train, or private car. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the mode of transportation.
3. Are there any local dishes I should try in Ninh Binh?
   • Yes, be sure to try local specialties like goat meat (de núi) and crispy rice (com chay). These dishes are unique to the region and offer a taste of Ninh Binh’s culinary heritage.
4. Is it necessary to book tours in advance?
   • While it’s not strictly necessary to book tours in advance, it can be helpful, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking ahead ensures you have a spot and can save you time. If you want to optimize your trip, let Sun Getaways Travel bring you a diverse 2-day Ninh Binh itinerary.
5. What should I pack for a trip to Ninh Binh?
   • Pack comfortable clothing and shoes for exploring, a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun, and a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes. Don’t forget insect repellent if you plan to spend time outdoors.

With this 2-day Ninh Binh itinerary, you’ll experience the best of what this enchanting region has to offer. From its natural beauty to its ancient wonders, Ninh Binh is a destination that will leave you with lasting memories.