Ninh Binh Day Trip: Hoa Lu & Tam Coc

From₫60
10 hours
Hanoi, Vietnam

About this activity

Discover Vietnam's rich history and natural beauty on a day trip from Hanoi to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, featuring ancient temples, scenic boat rides, and cycling through lush landscapes.

Highlights

  • Explore Hoa Lu's ancient temples
  • Cruise through Tam Coc's limestone caves
  • Cycle through picturesque rice paddies
  • Savor authentic Vietnamese lunch
  • Experience local culture and history

Full description

Join us for an unforgettable day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, where you'll explore the ancient temples of Hoa Lu, cruise through the stunning limestone caves of Tam Coc, and cycle through picturesque rice paddies. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, providing a comprehensive experience of Vietnam's northern landscapes. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch and immerse yourself in the local way of life. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories in one of Vietnam's most enchanting regions.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Hanoi
  • Guided tour of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
  • Boat trip through Tam Coc's limestone caves
  • Cycling tour through local villages
  • Lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine
  • Personal expenses and gratuities

Itinerary

1

It was the ancient capital of Vietnam in 10th and 11th century. you will visit two kings temples that was built in 17 century. Learn about culture and history from your tour guide

Duration: 50 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Have a sampan boat trip on Ngo Dong River to pass three emerald water caves. Enjoy seeing the mountainous landscape from your boat.

Duration: 1h 45mAdmission: YES
3

Pass by: 7.30: Pick up from hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter 09:20: Arrive at Hoa Lu ancient capital 09:30: Visit Hoa Lu ancient capital and cyling around Hoa Lu capital 11:30: Have a buffet lunch with Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant. 13.15: Enjoy the Sampan boats through the caves and overlook the countryside landscape 15:30: Leave Tam Coc for Hanoi. 18:00: Arrive at Hanoi and finish the unforgettable full day trip What to bring: • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen • Camera • Comfortable walking shoes and trousers for the biking trip • Some cash for extra

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language.
  • Confirm the pickup location and time in Hanoi upon booking.
  • Be prepared for a full-day excursion with various activities.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and cycling.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent for sun protection.
  • Carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infants Required On Laps
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • Customer should bring some cash in VND to purchase the personal souvenirs and extra drink if needed
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult

Traveler reviews

4.9
72 reviews
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Stephen is a wonderful guide. Upbeat and organized. The activities were great fun. Lovely area!

Stephen is a wonderful guide. Upbeat and fun. Great activities. Lovely area and nice to get out of the city. Highly recommend.

Bridget TFeb 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Must-do tour with Vu!

Vu was absolutely amazing. It's a long all-day tour but completely worth it. Vu gave clear, concise overview and description of what the day would look like in the beginning and each step of the way. He was knowledgeable on history and geography. Water is provided but definitely bring more and hydrate. A small bookbag or crossbody is ideal for sunblock, bug spray, water, phone, etc. Vu is funny and personable giving each person attention. The motorcoach is extremely nice and comfortable. The hiking, biking, boating, pagodas/temples are all incredible. The set lunch was delicious and abundant. Must-do!

ShanGH82Feb 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Must do tour if in Hanoi

The tour was amazing! We were able to see all that Ninh Binh has to offer. Stephen, our tour guide was great and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend.

Sunshine58613595057Feb 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Nice to be out of Hanoi, but still crowded

Long bus ride from Hanoi after battling to get out of the congestion. Stopped at an ancient temple in Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) but it wasn't a patch on anything we'd seen in Thailand. Lunch next which offered a good buffet choice, though none of it was actually hot. Warm at best. Then we went for a short bike ride to see a pagoda. It was nice to be on bikes, even if not for that long. After that we drove to Tam Coc for a sampan ride. I thought this would be the highlight of the day but it was mass tourism in the extreme. Thousands of people doing the same trip at once in hundreds of little rowed boats. Totally crowded. And this is low season! The driver was keen to sell us embroidered pictures which were nice, but double the price they were sold at in the bus parking lot. He also asked repeatedly for a tip. It was interesting to see women working in the rice fields from a very close vantage point. After that it's the 3-hour trip back that you've got to look forward to. WiFi on the bus helps pass the time!

flyerBlueJan 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Amazing day!

I spent a very unforgettable experience with Aloha and our guide Augustine. He is careful, funny, oriented in offering all what a group could need. I really appreciate his comments about traditions, historical events and also his personal experience.. The different activities were really beautiful: boat, bike, pagoda and temple visits. I enjoy this day, I recommend this agency to spent a beautiful day!

Claudio CApr 16, 2025TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Customer should bring some cash in VND to purchase the personal souvenirs and extra drink if needed Children must be accompanied by an adult