A Day Trip from Hanoi: Ninh Binh Adventure

If you’re in Hanoi and looking for a quick escape to Vietnam’s natural and cultural gems, a day tour to Ninh Binh is a must-do. I booked a tour package for $115 SGD for two, and it was totally worth it for a full-day experience packed with temples, caves, kayaking, hiking, and amazing views. We got picked up right from our hotel at 7:30am in a comfortable air-conditioned bus, and the whole tour was English-speaking, which made everything super easy to follow. Our guide was friendly and shared interesting stories and history throughout the journey. Our first stop was the Bai Dinh Temple Complex — and wow, it was massive. There are so many pagodas spread out across the complex. It’s said to be built by one of Vietnam’s richest men, and honestly, you can tell — the place is grand and beautifully maintained. One tip though: it gets really hot, so don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat (you’ll thank me later). Next, we headed to Trang An, and this was hands-down my favorite part. It’s such a serene and magical place — limestone mountains, lush greenery, and calm waters. We chose to go kayaking, which was such a fun and peaceful way to explore. You can also do a boat ride if you prefer to relax. After that, we enjoyed a Vietnamese lunch buffet — lots of local dishes, and it was included in the tour price. It was a nice break and a good chance to recharge before our last stop. Finally, we made our way to Mua Cave. This part tested my stamina — the hike is no joke! There are two sides you can climb, but I only managed to conquer one. The steps are steep, and it gets tiring fast, especially after a long day, but the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. You get a panoramic shot of the rice fields and winding rivers — it’s the perfect way to end the tour. Overall, if you want to see more than just Hanoi, this Ninh Binh day tour offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and adventure — English-speaking guide, comfy bus, lunch buffet all included — and all of that for just $115 SGD for two. Perfect for this year summer destination. #summervacay #vietnam #hanoi #ninhbinh