Ninh Binh 1-Day Tour: Trang An Boat Trip and Hoa Lu Temple

Ninh Binh, a scenic gem located just 100 km from Hanoi, is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts, lush rivers, and rich cultural heritage. This 1-day group tour by Vietnam Sunshine Holidays explores the UNESCO-listed Trang An and the ancient Hoa Lu Temple, offering travellers a perfect mix of natural splendour and cultural heritage. Designed for families, couples, and solo adventurers, this tour ensures a seamless, immersive experience in 2025, with daily departures and small groups for a personalised adventure.

Morning: Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s Ancient Capital

The day begins with a 7:30–8:00 AM pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter in a comfortable limousine bus, ensuring a pleasant 2.5-hour ride to Ninh Binh. By 10:30 AM, you arrive at Hoa Lu, the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 CE. Visit the Dinh and Le King Temples, which are dedicated to emperors who shaped the nation’s early history. Your English-speaking guide shares stories of the Dinh and Le dynasties, set against limestone hills that evoke a timeless era. The temples’ intricate architecture and serene ambience deeply dive into Vietnam’s feudal past. Dress respectfully, avoiding shorts, to honour the sacred sites.

Midday: Lunch and Trang An Boat Trip

Around noon, enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, featuring Vietnamese specialities like fresh spring rolls, grilled dishes, and vegetarian options such as com chay (vegetarian rice bowls), catering to diverse dietary needs. The meal with mineral water and Vietnamese tea fosters a warm, communal atmosphere. At 1:00 PM, head to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its emerald rivers, limestone caves, and ancient temples. Embark on a 2- to 2.5-hour sampan boat ride, rowed by local guides, through a network of nine caves, including Sang Cave and Ba Giot Cave. Glide past towering karsts, rice fields, and pagodas like Tran Temple, with opportunities to disembark and explore. The tranquil journey, framed by Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes, is a photographer’s dream, especially in the golden light of midday.

Afternoon: Countryside Exploration and Return

Post-boat trip, around 3:30 PM, take a short cycling tour (30–40 minutes) through Trang An’s countryside, pedalling along flat paths past rice paddies and lotus ponds. Bikes and helmets are provided, and the easy ride suits all fitness levels, with an option to relax at the lunch venue instead. This leisurely activity offers a closer look at rural life, complementing the day’s cultural and natural highlights. By 5:00 PM, board the limousine bus back to Hanoi, arriving at your hotel around 7:30–8:00 PM. The tour includes transport, entrance fees, a boat ride, bike rental, lunch, and a guide, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

This Ninh Binh tour packs history and nature into one unforgettable day, ideal for travellers with limited time. Small groups (up to 15) ensure a personalised experience, and eco-friendly boats reflect a commitment to sustainable tourism. For B2B partners, Vietnam Sunshine Holidays offers customizable itineraries for global travel agencies. Contact sales@vietnamsunshineholidays.com for group bookings or special requests. In 2025, let Trang An’s serene waters and Hoa Lu’s ancient legacy create lasting memories on this remarkable journey.