From Hanoi: Visit Hoa Lu & Trang An/ Tam Coc & Mua Caves

Northern Vietnam’s natural beauty is a must-see for any visitor. This day trip from Hanoi explores the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the breathtaking landscapes of Trang An or Tam Coc. Travelers will uncover the history of the Dinh and Le dynasties, savor a local Vietnamese lunch, and take in stunning views from the Hang Mua viewpoint. Whether you choose a serene boat ride or a climbing adventure, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience blending culture and natural wonders. What awaits beyond the ancient capital?

Key Points

• Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, with its royal palaces, temples, and tombs from the Dinh and Le dynasties.
• Set out on a boat tour of either Trang An (2.5 hours) or Tam Coc (1.5 hours) to witness Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes of limestone mountains and winding rivers.
• Climb the 500 steps to the Hang Mua viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the characteristic limestone mountains and rice paddies.
• Enjoy a Vietnamese cuisine lunch as part of the tour package, which includes round-trip transportation from Hanoi hotels.
• The tour is priced at Kč 983 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders, priced at Kč 983 per person.

It’s a one-day adventure with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve now and pay later, or opt for a private group experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup in Hanoi, visits to Hoa Lu’s ancient landmarks, a Vietnamese lunch, and either a 1.5-hour boat ride through Tam Coc or a 2.5-hour journey in Trang An.

Bottled water is provided, but tips and personal expenses aren’t included. A surcharge may apply for holidays in Vietnam.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pick-up from hotels in Hanoi, transporting guests to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first capital.

Visitors explore ancient tombs, temples, and shrines of the Dinh and Le dynasties. After a Vietnamese cuisine lunch, the afternoon offers two options: a 1.5-hour boat ride through rice fields and caves in Tam Coc, or a 2.5-hour boat trip in Trang An, discovering caves, valleys, streams, and historical relics.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes of limestone mountains and winding rivers, cycling through small roads and rice fields.

Hoa Lu: Vietnam’s First Capital

Although Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th century, much of the ancient city has been lost to time.

Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the royal palaces, temples, and tombs that once stood there. The Dinh and Le dynasties have left behind impressive stone monuments, including the Dinh and Le temples.

Guests can also climb the 500 steps to the Hang Mua viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the limestone mountains and rice paddies that characterize Ninh Binh’s stunning natural landscape.

Tam Coc or Trang An Boat Ride

After exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, visitors have the option to embark on a boat ride through either Tam Coc or Trang An.

The Tam Coc boat trip offers a 1.5-hour journey through the region’s iconic rice fields and limestone caves.

The Trang An boat tour, on the other hand, is a more extensive 2.5-hour experience, exploring a network of caves, streams, and historical relics.

Both options provide a serene and picturesque perspective of Ninh Binh’s natural landscapes, allowing visitors to witness the stunning beauty of this region.

1. Tam Coc: 1.5-hour boat ride through rice fields and caves.

2. Trang An: 2.5-hour boat ride through caves, valleys, streams, and historical relics.

3. Both options offer a serene and picturesque perspective of Ninh Binh’s natural landscapes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Ninh Binh’s Landscapes

Ninh Binh’s landscapes captivate visitors with their striking limestone mountains and winding rivers. Guests can explore this natural wonder by cycling through small roads and rice fields, seeing the serene countryside. The region’s beauty is further enhanced by the opportunity to row through caves, admiring the crystal-clear water and majestic rock formations.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Limestone Mountains | Towering peaks that create a dramatic backdrop |

| Winding Rivers | Meandering waterways that wind through the landscape |

| Cycling Trails | Scenic routes through rice fields and small villages |

| Cave Exploration | Serene boat rides through cavernous tunnels |

Climbing and Viewing Experiences

Visitors to Ninh Binh can climb over 500 steps to the Hang Mua viewpoint, where they’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the region’s striking limestone formations and winding rivers.

Climb over 500 steps to the Hang Mua viewpoint and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Ninh Binh’s striking limestone formations and winding rivers.

The climb offers:

1. Breathtaking views of the Trang An landscape.

2. Opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Vietnam’s national flower, the lotus, in the Thung Sen valley.

3. Chance to capture the perfect sunset over the dramatic scenery.

This challenging but worthwhile ascent allows travelers to fully appreciate Ninh Binh’s awe-inspiring landscapes from an elevated vantage point.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes round-trip car transfers with air conditioning, picking up and dropping off guests at their central Hanoi hotels. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, with additional language options available for a surcharge. Guests can enjoy a boat ride through the stunning Trang An or Tam Coc landscapes, taking in the limestone mountains, winding rivers, and serene atmosphere. Bottled water is provided throughout the day. While tips and personal expenses are not included, any applicable surcharges for Vietnamese holidays are covered.

| Inclusions |

|———————————-|

| Car transfer with air conditioning |

| Pick-up and drop-off in central Hanoi |

| English-speaking guide (surcharge for other languages) |

| Boat trip to Trang An or Tam Coc |

| Bottled water provided |

| Tips and personal expenses not included |

| Surcharge for holidays in Vietnam may apply |

Additional Information

While guests can expect a memorable experience throughout the day, a few additional details are worth noting.

First, an English-speaking guide is available, but a surcharge applies for other language requests.

An English-speaking guide is available, but additional language requests incur a surcharge.

Second, bottled water is provided during the trip, but tips and personal expenses aren’t included.

Finally, a surcharge may apply for holidays in Vietnam, so guests should check with the tour operator in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your preferences. Many operators offer personalized itineraries, allowing you to choose activities and destinations that align with your interests for a more tailored experience.

Is There a Discount for Children or Senior Travelers?

Yes, there are discounts for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while travelers aged 65 and over get a 10% discount off the regular tour price.

Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring on the Tour?

Travelers can bring personal items like cameras, sunscreen, and snacks on the tour. However, they should avoid bringing large or bulky items that could be difficult to transport. Any restrictions will be communicated by the tour operator.

How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?

The tour includes hotel pick-up from central Hanoi, so you don’t need to worry about getting to the starting point. The tour operator will transport you directly to the tour’s first stop.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour, but comfortable clothing and good walking shoes are recommended. Guests should bring sun protection, swimwear if planning to boat, and be prepared for some light hiking and climbing.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh promises an immersive cultural and natural experience. Travelers will explore Vietnam’s ancient capital, Hoa Lu, before embarking on a serene boat ride through the picturesque landscapes of Trang An or Tam Coc. The tour also includes a visit to the Hang Mua viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of the region’s iconic limestone formations. This well-rounded itinerary provides a perfect blend of history, scenery, and Vietnamese cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here: