Best Places to Visit in Ninh Binh | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Ninh Binh Travel Guide
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Welcome to Ninh Binh, Vietnam, a hidden gem nestled in the northern part of the country. Known as the "Halong Bay on land," Ninh Binh offers a breathtaking landscape of limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and winding rivers. This enchanting destination is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, with its numerous caves, grottoes, and hiking trails waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region by visiting ancient temples and pagodas, such as the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia. Don't miss the chance to take a boat ride along the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at the stunning scenery and witness the local way of life. Whether you're seeking tranquility or adventure, Ninh Binh is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
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Best Places To Visit in Ninh Binh
1. Hanoi, Vietnam: Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Some of the top attractions in Hanoi include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter. Visitors can also take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake or enjoy a traditional water puppet show.
2. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant nightlife. The city is known for its French colonial architecture, delicious street food, and historical landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Visitors can also take a stroll around the Ben Thanh Market or enjoy a drink at one of the many rooftop bars.
3. Hoi An, Vietnam: Hoi An is a charming town located in central Vietnam and is known for its well-preserved ancient town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is also known for its lanterns, which light up the streets at night, and its delicious cuisine. Visitors can take a cooking class, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, or take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River.
4. Ninh Binh, Vietnam: Ninh Binh is a province in northern Vietnam that is known for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat ride through the Tam Coc caves, hike to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, or visit the Bai Dinh Pagoda, which is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam.
5. Da Nang, Vietnam: Da Nang is a coastal city located in central Vietnam and is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and stunning bridges. Visitors can take a stroll along the Han River, visit the Marble Mountains, or take a day trip to the nearby city of Hoi An.
6. Sapa, Vietnam: Sapa is a mountain town located in northern Vietnam and is known for its stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority communities. Visitors can take a trek through the rice terraces, visit a local market, or learn about the traditional customs and practices of the local communities.
7. Phu Quoc, Vietnam: Phu Quoc is an island located off the coast of southern Vietnam and is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving, take a boat trip to nearby islands, or simply relax on the beach.
8. Mui Ne, Vietnam: Mui Ne is a coastal town located in southern Vietnam and is known for its beautiful sand dunes and kite surfing. Visitors can take a jeep tour of the sand dunes, go kite surfing, or simply relax on the beach.
9. Dalat, Vietnam: Dalat is a mountain town located in central Vietnam and is known for its cool climate, beautiful scenery, and French colonial architecture. Visitors can take a stroll around the Xuan Huong Lake, visit the Crazy House, or take a cable car ride to the top of Lang Biang Mountain.
10. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Vietnam and is known for its stunning limestone cliffs and emerald waters. Visitors can take a boat ride through the bay, visit the floating villages, or go kayaking.
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Tours And Activities In Ninh Binh
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Food & Drinks To Try In Ninh Binh
1. Pho: A must-try dish in Vietnam, Pho is a delicious noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various herbs and spices. In Ninh Binh, you can find local eateries serving authentic Pho that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Bun Cha: Another popular dish in Ninh Binh is Bun Cha, which consists of grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. This dish is known for its smoky and savory flavors, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Com Chay: Com Chay, also known as crispy rice, is a specialty in Ninh Binh. It is made by frying cooked rice until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Com Chay is often served with stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and a variety of sauces, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
4. Goi Ca Trich: If you're a seafood lover, don't miss out on Goi Ca Trich, a traditional Ninh Binh salad made with raw fish. The fish is thinly sliced and marinated in a tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili. It is then mixed with fresh herbs, shredded green papaya, and crushed peanuts, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful salad.
5. Che: For a sweet treat, try Che, a popular Vietnamese dessert. In Ninh Binh, you can find various types of Che, such as Che Ba Mau (three-color dessert) and Che Troi Nuoc (glutinous rice balls in ginger syrup). These desserts are made with ingredients like beans, coconut milk, tapioca pearls, and fruits, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
6. Ca Phe Trung: Coffee lovers should not miss Ca Phe Trung, also known as egg coffee. This unique Vietnamese drink is made by whisking egg yolks with condensed milk and coffee, resulting in a creamy and rich beverage. It is often served hot or cold, and the combination of flavors is truly indulgent.
7. Nuoc Mia: Nuoc Mia, or sugarcane juice, is a refreshing drink that is popular in Vietnam. In Ninh Binh, you can find street vendors selling freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, which is both sweet and hydrating. It's a perfect drink to cool down on a hot day while exploring the city.
8. Bia Hoi: If you enjoy beer, make sure to try Bia Hoi, a type of Vietnamese draft beer. It is a light and refreshing beer that is brewed daily and served in small local bars. Bia Hoi is a popular choice among locals, and it's a great way to immerse yourself in the local drinking culture.
9. Tra Da: Tra Da, or iced tea, is a common drink in Vietnam. It is made by brewing tea leaves and serving it over ice. In Ninh Binh, you can find various types of Tra Da, including green tea, jasmine tea, and lotus tea. It's a refreshing and healthy beverage that pairs well with the local cuisine.
10. Fruit Smoothies: Vietnam is known for its abundance of tropical fruits, and Ninh Binh is no exception. You can find numerous fruit stalls and smoothie vendors offering a wide variety of fresh fruit smoothies. From mango and pineapple to dragon fruit and passion fruit, these smoothies are a delicious and healthy way to quench your thirst and enjoy the local flavors.
Best Time To Visit Ninh Binh
The best time to visit Ninh Binh, Vietnam is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasantly warm with low humidity and little rainfall. The main attractions in Ninh Binh, such as the Tam Coc caves and the Trang An Grottoes, are best explored in dry weather. Additionally, the rice fields in the region are at their most vibrant and picturesque during this time, creating a stunning backdrop for sightseeing and photography. However, it is important to note that Ninh Binh can get quite crowded with tourists during the peak season, especially around December and January. If you prefer quieter and less crowded surroundings, it may be best to visit during the shoulder seasons of November and April when the weather is still favorable but the crowds are thinner.
Flight Calendar For Ninh Binh
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Transportation To Ninh Binh
There are several transportation options to Ninh Binh, Vietnam.
1. By Train: Ninh Binh has a train station that is well-connected to major cities in Vietnam. You can take a train from Hanoi, which is the closest major city, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours.
2. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The journey by bus takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. You can find buses at major bus stations in Hanoi, such as Giap Bat or My Dinh.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or hire a private driver to take you to Ninh Binh from Hanoi. The distance between the two cities is around 90 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.
4. By Motorbike: If you are an experienced rider, you can also rent a motorbike in Hanoi and ride to Ninh Binh. The route is relatively straightforward, and it takes around 2-3 hours to reach Ninh Binh.
Once you arrive in Ninh Binh, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, motorbike taxis (xe om), or rent a bicycle to explore the city and its surrounding attractions.