Exploring Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage is a must for any traveler. This full-day adventure from Hanoi promises an immersive experience visiting the historic sites of Hoa Lu and Trang An. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the country’s storied past while cycling through picturesque rural landscapes and embarking on a serene boat cruise. With a delicious lunch and all-inclusive pricing, it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories in Vietnam’s breathtaking natural settings.
Good To Know
- This full-day trip from Hanoi takes you to explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, cycle through rural landscapes, and cruise through the scenic Trang An Grottoes.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, buffet lunch, and all entrance fees, starting from $36.19 per person.
- Highlights include visiting historical temples, biking through picturesque villages, and enjoying a boat cruise through the caves and temples of Trang An.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance are not included.
- Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and inform the guide about any dietary restrictions.
Trip Overview and Pricing
This full-day trip from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and biking adventure costs from $36.19 per person.
It lasts one day and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour includes hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, a buffet lunch, and all entrance fees.
This full-day trip from Hanoi includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, a buffet lunch, and all entrance fees.
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and personal expenses and tips aren’t included.
Itineraries may change, so travelers should check for updates.
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Itinerary Details
The trip begins with pickup at the Hoàn Kiếm area of Hanoi, followed by a 2.5-hour bus journey to the province of Ninh Binh. After a 30-minute break, the group visits the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel for 75 minutes, exploring the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple. Next, they’ll enjoy a leisurely 11:30 bike ride through the scenic rural roads and villages before a 12:15 lunch at a local restaurant.
| Time | Activity |
| — | — |
| 11:30 | Cycling through rural roads and villages |
| 12:15 | Lunch at local restaurant |
| 15:00 | Boat cruise through Trang An Grottoes and temples (3.75 hours) |
| 18:00 – 18:20 | Return to Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi |
The tour concludes with a 3.75-hour boat cruise through the scenic Trang An Grottoes, before the 2.5-hour bus journey back to Hanoi.
Highlights and Activities
Visitors can explore the historic Hoa Lu ancient capital, the former seat of power in Vietnam.
They’ll wander through the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, learning about the country’s rich heritage.
Next, they’ll cycle through picturesque rural landscapes and villages, seeing the serene natural settings.
The boat cruise through the Trang An Grottoes offers a unique perspective, gliding past scenic caves, temples, and landscapes.
Throughout the day, travelers can indulge in local specialties at the Ninh Binh Heritage restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region.
Inclusions
The full-day trip from Hanoi to Hoa Lu – Trang An – Biking includes hotel pickup in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.
It also provides a fully escorted tour with a professional English-speaking guide. Travelers receive 2 bottles of water per person and a buffet lunch with a panoramic view of Tamcoc.
All entrance fees as per the itinerary are included. However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Beverages, travel insurance, tips for the tour guide, and personal expenses aren’t covered.
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Information
Although the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it provides a comprehensive experience for visitors to explore the historic Hoa Lu ancient capital, enjoy a scenic boat ride in Trang An, and cycle through picturesque natural settings.
Beverages, travel insurance, tips for the tour guide, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price. The itinerary is subject to change.
Guests are advised to:
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Wear comfortable walking shoes.
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Bring sun protection and rain gear as needed.
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Inform the guide about any dietary restrictions.
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Arrive promptly at the pickup location to ensure a smooth start to the day.
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Exploring Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel
After a scenic 2.5-hour bus journey from Hanoi, the first stop on this full-day adventure is the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel. Visitors can explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, which offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past. The citadel provides an opportunity to wander through the ancient ruins and imagine the grandeur of this former capital.
| Site | Duration |
| — | — |
| Dinh King Temple | 45 minutes |
| Le King Temple | 30 minutes |
| Citadel Grounds | 30 minutes |
With ample time to soak in the atmosphere, this stop sets the stage for the day’s activities.
Cycling Through Picturesque Landscapes
Following the exploration of the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel, the tour group embarks on a leisurely cycling adventure through the picturesque rural landscapes of Ninh Binh.
The cycling route takes them through:
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Lush, verdant rice paddies stretching out as far as the eye can see.
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Quaint, traditional Vietnamese villages with their charming, thatched-roof houses.
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Winding, tree-lined roads flanked by towering limestone cliffs.
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Serene, meandering streams and rivers, offering a tranquil backdrop to the journey.
This cycling segment allows travelers to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty and gain a deeper appreciation for the local way of life.
Boat Cruise in Trang An Grottoes
The tour then moves on to the Trang An Grottoes, where travelers embark on a boat cruise through the scenic limestone caves and temples. The boat journey lasts approximately 3.75 hours, providing ample time to admire the breathtaking landscapes.
| Highlights | Duration | Inclusions |
| — | — | — |
| Cruise through caves | 3.75 hours | Professional guide |
| View temple ruins | | Entrance fees |
| Admire limestone formations | | Bottled water |
| Discover hidden coves | | Buffet lunch |
| Soak in the serene ambiance | | |
The boat cruise is a captivating experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Trang An Grottoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
The minimum group size for this tour is not specified. The tour is available for individual bookings, so there doesn’t appear to be a minimum group requirement. Travelers can reserve and pay for the tour on their own.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cycling Portion?
There are no stated age restrictions for the cycling portion of the tour. However, visitors should be physically capable of cycling for the 1-hour duration through rural roads and villages. The tour operator can provide additional guidance upon booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Cruise?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the boat cruise. However, the tour provider recommends enjoying the included lunch menu to fully experience the local cuisine and scenic Trang An landscape.
Is the Buffet Lunch Vegetarian-Friendly?
The buffet lunch provided as part of the tour is not explicitly described as vegetarian-friendly. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance about any dietary accommodations or options available for vegetarian or vegan guests.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket for the Boat Ride?
No, life jackets are provided for the boat ride at Trang An Grottoes. The tour includes all necessary equipment, so you don’t need to bring your own life jacket.
The Sum Up
This full-day trip from Hanoi to Hoa Lu and Trang An offers an immersive experience into Vietnam’s rich history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel, cycle through picturesque landscapes, and embark on a serene boat cruise through the stunning Trang An Grottoes, all while enjoying a delicious buffet lunch and the expertise of a professional English-speaking guide. It’s an excellent value at just $36.19 per person.
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