Ninh Binh, Vietnam: The Hidden Gem Beyond Halong Bay

Limestone mountains, lush rice paddies, emerald waterways, and a peaceful atmosphere—Ninh Binh is where Vietnam’s soul meets nature. Often dubbed “Halong Bay on land,” this underrated destination offers the same breathtaking landscapes, without the tourist crowds or steep prices.
In this guide, we’ll help you decide whether to choose Ninh Binh or Halong Bay, explore the best boat tours (Tam Coc vs. Trang An), dive into nature experiences, learn how to get there from Hanoi, and stay connected with Voye Global’s eSIM Vietnam.
Ninh Binh vs. Halong Bay: Which One Should You Visit?
Both Ninh Binh and Halong Bay boast dramatic karst landscapes and natural beauty, but they offer very different experiences.
Feature | Ninh Binh | Halong Bay |
---|---|---|
Scenery | Limestone cliffs + rice fields | Limestone cliffs + ocean |
Tour Style | Rowboat + cycling/hiking | Overnight cruise/boat |
Crowd Level | Quieter and more local | Touristy, often crowded |
Cost | More budget-friendly | Mid-to-high range |
Accessibility from Hanoi | 2 hrs by train/bus | 3.5 hrs by car or shuttle |
Verdict: If you’re seeking an offbeat, eco-friendly, and serene experience, Ninh Binh is the better choice. Halong Bay suits those preferring luxury cruises and island hopping.
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Best Boat Tours in Ninh Binh: Tam Coc or Trang An?

Ninh Binh’s boat tours are world-renowned, with Tam Coc and Trang An being the two standout options.
Tam Coc Boat Ride
- Experience: Quiet, rural scenery with rice fields and gentle karsts
- Duration: ~1.5 hours
- Vibe: Rustic, traditional
- Best Time: April to early June (golden rice season)
Trang An Boat Tour
- Experience: Cave system, temples, cinematic locations (e.g., Kong: Skull Island)
- Duration: ~2.5–3 hours
- Vibe: Grand, cinematic, UNESCO-listed
- Best For: First-time visitors
Choose Tam Coc if you love countryside charm and rice paddies.
Choose Trang An if you’re into caves, temples, and an extended experience.
Next stop in Hue? Read our guide – Hue, Vietnam: The Imperial Heartbeat Along the Perfume River
A Nature-Lover’s Guide to Ninh Binh
From ancient temples to karst towers, here’s what makes Ninh Binh a paradise for eco-travelers.
Must-Visit Nature Attractions
- Mua Caves (Hang Múa): Climb 500 steps for panoramic views of Tam Coc
- Bich Dong Pagoda: A temple built into a cave, surrounded by lotus ponds
- Van Long Nature Reserve: Lesser-known but rich in birdlife and wetland beauty
- Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s oldest national park, ideal for hiking and wildlife watching
- Thung Nham Bird Park: Great at sunset, with flocks of storks returning to roost
Eco Activities
- Bicycle tours through villages and rice fields
- Kayaking or rowboating in Trang An or Van Long
- Nature photography and birdwatching
- Climbing limestone peaks and exploring hidden temples
Searching for Temples in Vietnam? – Here’s your ultimate guide – Vietnam’s Hidden Temples & Pagodas Off the Beaten Path
Day Trips from Hanoi: How to Reach Ninh Binh Easily
Ninh Binh is just around 95 km from Hanoi, making it a perfect weekend escape.
By Train:
- Duration: ~2–2.5 hours
- Departure: Hanoi Railway Station
- Cost: ~$3–5 (Soft seat)
By Bus/Van:
- Duration: ~1.5–2.5 hours
- From: My Dinh or Giap Bat Bus Stations in Hanoi
- Cost: ~$5–8
- Luxury vans and private transfers available for ~$10–15
By Motorbike:
- Great for adventure seekers
- Travel time: 2.5–3 hours (Check weather and fuel up)
Tip: Book online via platforms like Baolau or 12Go for hassle-free tickets.
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2-Day Sample Itinerary: Ninh Binh Adventure

Day 1:
- Morning train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
- Check-in at Tam Coc guesthouse
- Boat ride in Tam Coc
- Sunset climb at Mua Caves
- Dinner at a local eatery (try goat meat specialties)
Day 2:
- Early bicycle ride to Bich Dong Pagoda
- Late morning Trang An boat tour
- Lunch in Ninh Binh town
- Return to Hanoi by train or van
What to Pack for Ninh Binh?
- Breathable, lightweight clothing
- Comfortable shoes for biking and hiking
- Poncho or light rain jacket (summer rains)
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Portable power bank
- eSIM for Vietnam for offline maps, Grab, and digital tickets
Currency Tips & Budget Travel Hacks
- Carry small denominations (₫10,000–₫100,000)
- Use VND cash for boat rides and local food
- Use apps like MoMo or ZaloPay (linked to Vietnamese bank accounts)
- Bargain politely at souvenir shops
- Eat at family-run restaurants for meals under $2
Estimated budget for 2 days:
- Boat tours: ~$8–10
- Guesthouse: $10–15/night
- Food: $1–3 per meal
- Transport (round-trip): $10–20
- Total: ~$45–60
SIM Card vs eSIM in Vietnam
Physical SIM Card:
- Requires passport to purchase
- Can be hard to find in remote areas
- Risk of misplacing the SIM card
eSIM Vietnam by Voye Global:
- No need to find a store or carry a second SIM
- Connects instantly with top Vietnamese networks
- Plans start from $0.9 for short stays
- Easy to top up for maps, Grab, train bookings, and social media
For travelers visiting Ninh Binh, where connectivity helps with navigation, booking, and translation apps, eSIM is the more practical and budget-friendly choice.
Trusted eSIM Provider in Vietnam – Voye Global
Voye Global provides reliable and affordable eSIM plans for Vietnam, with seamless coverage in Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and more. No roaming fees, no paperwork, just scan and go.
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Choose Ninh Binh for Nature and Peace
Ninh Binh offers everything from cinematic landscapes and peaceful boat tours to ancient pagodas and quiet hikes. It’s Vietnam’s best-kept secret—and a perfect alternative to Halong Bay for budget-conscious, nature-loving travelers. Travel smart, pack light, stay connected with an eSIM, and unlock an unforgettable escape in 2025.
Looking for more fun? Read our vlog – Hidden Beaches in Vietnam That Tourists Haven’t Discovered Yet
Choose Ninh Binh for Nature and Peace

Ninh Binh offers everything from cinematic landscapes and peaceful boat tours to ancient pagodas and quiet hikes. It’s Vietnam’s best-kept secret—and a perfect alternative to Halong Bay for budget-conscious, nature-loving travelers. Travel smart, pack light, stay connected with an eSIM, and unlock an unforgettable escape in 2025. Want to uncover secret places? Read our blog – Mui Ne: Vietnam’s Fairy Stream – The Best Kept Secret
FAQs
Is Ninh Binh worth visiting compared to Halong Bay?
Yes. Ninh Binh is less touristy, more affordable, and offers inland karst views with cycling and hiking options.
Which is better: Tam Coc or Trang An boat ride?
Trang An offers more variety (caves, temples), while Tam Coc is great during rice harvest season for its scenic beauty.
Can I visit Ninh Binh in a day trip from Hanoi?
Yes, but an overnight stay is highly recommended to enjoy both boat rides and local experiences.
What’s the best time to visit Ninh Binh?
March to June and September to November are ideal. April–May is best for golden rice fields.
Should I use eSIM or SIM card in Vietnam?
eSIM is more convenient for travelers. Voye Global’s eSIM for Vietnam offers instant connectivity, especially useful in rural areas like Ninh Binh.
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