10 Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh in 2026: Ultimate Travel Guide

 

It is no coincidence that Ninh Binh has consistently appeared on the list of Asia’s most impressive destinations in recent years. With its spectacular limestone karst landscapes, unique cave systems, and a history spanning more than 1,000 years, Ninh Binh offers an experience that is both visually breathtaking and rich in cultural depth.

 

In Vietnam’s tourism landscape of 2026, Ninh Binh is emerging as a top choice for international travelers seeking a destination that feels truly “different” from crowded tourist cities. Here, you can glide by boat through dramatic mountain ranges in Trang An, conquer Hang Mua Peak for a sweeping panoramic view, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, or simply immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of life in the Northern Vietnamese countryside.

 

But among so many options, which experiences are truly worth your time? This article by Ms. Tấm - a professional local guide from Truong Sa Tourist Vietnam DMC - reveals “10 Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh in 2026: Ultimate Travel Guide.” This is not just a list of attractions, but a comprehensive handbook with updated 2026 information, itinerary suggestions, local tips, and essential travel notes to help you enjoy the most complete journey possible in Ninh Binh.

 

If you are planning to explore Northern Vietnam in 2026, this is the perfect place to start.

1. Boat Trip in Trang An – A Majestic Natural Wonder

 

Trang An is the most iconic symbol of Ninh Binh. The landscape feels like a vast water labyrinth set among towering limestone mountains.

 

A boat trip in Trang An is not just sightseeing; it is like drifting into a fairytale world. Small boats glide gently across mirror-like water that reflects sheer limestone cliffs rising hundreds of meters high. The boat rowers are usually locals, paddling with traditional oars at a slow, steady rhythm that creates a deeply relaxing atmosphere.

You will:

• Pass through caves stretching hundreds of meters long, some with ceilings so low you must duck your head
• Hear the sound of water droplets falling from stalactites
• Discover hidden valleys between mountains, where light suddenly opens up after emerging from dark caves
• Visit sacred ancient temples nestled among the mountains, where locals pray for peace and good fortune
• This is not a “quick check-in” tour, but a quiet, immersive experience that allows travelers to truly feel the untouched beauty of nature.

*Useful tips

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and drinking water

 

2. Visit Tam Coc - Experience Foot-Rowed Boat Rides

 

If Trang An feels grand and dramatic, Tam Coc offers a softer, more intimate charm.

 

A boat ride in Tam Coc along the winding Ngo Dong River passes through green rice fields or golden paddies during harvest season, creating a truly distinctive landscape. When the rice ripens, the entire valley looks like a golden carpet stretching to the foot of the mountains.

What makes it unique

• Boat rowers use their feet to paddle – a distinctive image found only in Vietnam
• A closer, more open and peaceful atmosphere
• Opportunities to stop at local villages and roadside refreshment stalls

3. Conquer Hang Mua for a Panoramic View from Above

With nearly 500 stone steps leading to the summit, Hang Mua is the perfect place to challenge yourself with a short trek and conquer Ngoa Long Peak. From the top, you can admire a breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc and endless green rice fields below.

*Local tips

• Wear comfortable sports shoes, light clothing, and bring water
• Visit early in the morning or at sunset for the most magical photo moments

4. Thung Ui – The Hottest New Destination in Ninh Binh (2026)

From 2026, Ninh Binh welcomes a brand-new destination that looks like a historical movie set: Thung Ui.

Officially opened to visitors during the 2026 Lunar New Year, Thung Ui quickly became one of the most popular attractions in the region. This enclosed valley features a natural lake surrounded by towering limestone mountains, creating a tranquil and secluded atmosphere.

Real experiences

Thung Ui is divided into different zones offering cultural experiences. Highlights include the Kinh Thien Platform (restored based on relics from the Dinh Dynasty), along with structures such as Kinh Dia, Kinh Nhan, Kinh Trung, traditional Muong stilt houses, and a harmonious system of lakes and walking paths. Ancient-style architecture blends with mountains and water, creating an ethereal scene often compared to a “Vietnamese version of Phoenix Ancient Town.”

 

Unique highlights

• Immerse yourself in a solemn mountain landscape, where every step feels like entering a poetic frame
• Wear traditional costumes and take photos in a vivid ancient-style film set

Best time to visit Thung Ui

• January-April: cool weather, lush scenery, ideal for spiritual visits and prayers
• September-November: clear skies, soft sunlight, extremely cinematic scenery

 

Golden hours for photography

• Early morning (6:30-9:00): soft sunlight with light mist
• Late afternoon (15:30-17:30): golden light creates a dreamy atmosphere

 

5. Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda - The Largest Buddhist Complex in Southeast Asia

 

Located amid the magnificent Trang An landscape, Bai Dinh Pagoda is an ideal pilgrimage site where visitors can admire grand Buddhist architecture and enjoy a serene, peaceful atmosphere.

Beyond its religious significance, Bai Dinh has become a renowned spiritual and eco-tourism destination, holding multiple Vietnam and Asia records, including:

• The largest bronze bell in Vietnam
• The tallest and heaviest Shakyamuni Buddha statue in Asia
• The largest set of gold-plated Three Times Buddha statues in Vietnam
• The largest bronze Maitreya Buddha statue in Southeast Asia
• The longest corridor of Arhat statues in Vietnam
• The highest number of Bodhi trees in Vietnam

 

→With these distinctions, Bai Dinh Pagoda is truly a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh.

6. Explore Vietnam’s Glorious History at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu was the first capital of Dai Co Viet in the 10th century. A visit to Hoa Lu offers the chance to admire ancient architecture, visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional festivals. This is a perfect destination for travelers who love history and culture.

7. Cycling and Exploring the Ninh Binh Countryside

Choosing a cycling tour in Ninh Binh allows travelers to freely enjoy the scenery along beautiful rural routes. Riding through peaceful villages, breathing fresh air scented with rice fields, and blending into the slow local rhythm brings a truly special feeling.

Ninh Binh is especially bike-friendly, with convenient roads and diverse distances ranging from 10 km to over 100 km, suitable for exploring multiple attractions.

 

Cycling tours are flexibly designed for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, travelers can stop freely to rest, sample local cuisine, explore local culture, and interact with residents.

8. Farming Experiences with Local People

In Ninh Binh, rural experiences such as riding water buffaloes, catching fish with traditional tools, and rice planting are becoming must-do activities for international visitors. These culturally rich activities help travelers better understand Vietnamese rural life.

Depending on the season, you may:

• Plant rice in flooded fields
• Harvest vegetables, corn, or peanuts
• Ride a water buffalo through rice paddies, discovering how gentle and patient these animals are
• Catch fish with traditional nets alongside local farmers
• Herd ducks or feed fish

→You will wear a conical hat, roll up your trousers, and step into muddy fields—an authentic, fun, and unforgettable experience.

9. Trekking and Exploring Cuc Phuong National Park

Another wonderful experience for nature lovers is trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park. Highlights include:

• Jungle trekking trails through tropical rainforest
• A rich botanical garden and diverse ecosystems, home to rare species such as the Delacour’s langur
• Opportunities to observe primates and learn about wildlife conservation
• Exploration of prehistoric caves such as Cave of the Prehistoric Man, Con Moong Cave, Mang Chieng Cave, Crescent Moon Cave, and more

→Cuc Phuong offers various trekking routes, each showcasing a unique and diverse ecosystem.

10. Experience Ninh Binh’s Local Cuisine - Authentic Vietnamese Flavors

Beyond its landscapes, local cuisine is an essential part of any Ninh Binh itinerary in 2026.

 

Must-try specialties

Ninh Binh Mountain Goat

• Raised freely on limestone mountains, the meat is firm and lean
• Popular dishes: lemon-marinated raw goat, grilled goat, goat hotpot

 

Ninh Binh Crispy Rice

• Deep-fried rice served with goat meat sauce or mixed organ sauce, creating a signature crispy and rich flavor

 

Kim Son Goby Fish Salad

• A coastal specialty served with roasted rice powder and fresh herbs

 

Ant Egg Sticky Rice & Mountain Snails

• Seasonal delicacies during the rainy season
• Ant eggs are collected from deep limestone caves, stir-fried with shallots, and served over sticky rice for a unique, nutritious dish
• Mountain snails live in limestone crevices and feed on mineral water, resulting in sweet, chewy meat, often steamed or stir-fried with betel leaves

 

Suggestions for deeper food experiences

• Join a cooking class
• Visit a local market
• Learn how to make dipping sauces and roll traditional spring rolls

 

Local Travel Tips from Ninh Binh Residents

Best time & booking

• Visit in spring (January-March) or during rice harvest season (late May-early June)
• Book hotels and tours at least two weeks in advance during peak seasons

 

Clothing & essentials

• Wear modest clothing when visiting temples and pagodas
• Wear comfortable shoes for climbing Hang Mua
• Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, insect repellent, and waterproof bags for electronics

 

Sightseeing & transport

• Always wear life jackets on boat trips in Trang An, Tam Coc, and Van Long
• Climb Hang Mua early in the morning or late afternoon
• Allow at least 2 days and 1 night to fully explore key attractions

Safety

• Avoid carrying valuables; keep cash discreetly

 

3 Multi-Day Vietnam Tours Including Ninh Binh – Truong Sa Tourist Vietnam DMC

Here are three long tours including Ninh Binh that are most popular among travelers, featuring authentic local experiences and international-standard services:

 

Tour 1: Explore Northern Vietnam (Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Ha Long Bay)

 

Tour 2: 10-Day Vietnam Highlights Tour: Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay

 

Tour 3: Vietnam In-Depth Cultural Journey – 12 Days (Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay – Central Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta)

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Ninh Binh?

→Top experiences include Trang An boat trips, Tam Coc rowing, Hang Mua climbing, Bai Dinh Pagoda visits, exploring Thung Ui, and cycling through peaceful villages.

 

How do you travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?

→By train, bus, or private limousine (around 2 hours).

 

When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

→February–May and September–November offer the best weather and scenery.

 

Is a day trip from Hanoi enough?

→Possible, but staying 2–3 days allows a more complete experience.

 

What is the difference between Trang An and Tam Coc?

→Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse cave systems, while Tam Coc is known for rice fields and a more tranquil atmosphere.

 

Where should you stay in Ninh Binh?

→Near Tam Coc or Trang An for convenience, or choose a homestay for local experiences.

 

Should you join a guided tour?

→Yes. Local guides provide cultural insights and help optimize your itinerary.

 

>>Book Your Tour with Truong Sa Tourist Vietnam DMC

 

Looking for the most complete Ninh Binh experience with an optimized itinerary, professional local guides, and full-service packages? Book your tour with Truong Sa Tourist Vietnam DMC today to receive special offers and a personalized itinerary designed just for you.

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