Top 25 Ninh Binh Attractions You Can’t Miss

Ninh Binh is a town located southeast of Hanoi and serves as a gateway for visitors to explore the surrounding regions. The province is also referred to as Ninh Binh, with Ninh Binh town as its capital, leading to some ambiguity when people reference this area, as they often refer to the entire Ninh Binh district, which includes various towns, villages, and notable attractions.

While Ninh Binh town itself does not boast many notable sights, it is an excellent destination for those looking to venture into some of Vietnam’s most beautiful and unspoiled areas. The town typically acts as a launching point for Tam Coc, Van Long, and Hoa Lu. Although less frequented than other destinations such as Halong Bay and Sapa, Ninh Binh is ideal for nature enthusiasts due to its rugged limestone landscapes. Thus, for travelers seeking an alternative to the more popular hotspots, Ninh Binh presents an excellent opportunity.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Ninh Binh…

1. Visit Tam Coc

Situated outside of Ninh Binh town, Tam Coc is regarded as one of Vietnam’s premier nature destinations, despite remaining largely off the conventional tourist route.

Tam Coc is renowned for its karst formations, similar to the more famous Halong Bay, but it features picturesque limestone hills interspersed among lush green rice fields.

While Halong Bay is known for its towering cliffs, it is also more crowded; thus, Tam Coc is the perfect place for travelers wishing to escape the usual path. Visitors can explore the area via boat, which takes approximately two hours.

2. Eat at the Snail Restaurants

If you are eager to sample local cuisine, visit the lane adjacent to D Luong Van Tuy, where an array of snail restaurants can be found.

These establishments are famous for serving oc luoc xa, which translates to snails prepared with a fragrant blend of lemongrass and hot chilies.

If this dish does not entice your palate, a variety of bars are also available where you can enjoy a beverage. Nonetheless, the snails are a local delicacy and are worth tasting.

3. Visit Phat Diem Cathedral

Approximately 34 kilometers from the center of Ninh Binh, Phat Diem Cathedral is situated amid scenic canals and rice fields.

This cathedral served as the central place of worship for the Phat Diem commune, which was also referred to as the ‘Vatican of Vietnam’ during the colonial era.

Constructed in 1898, it features a blend of Vietnamese and Western architectural styles, including two Gothic chapels and substantial iron wood columns.

The cathedral’s impressive scale and its picturesque surroundings ensure that it is one of the must-see highlights in the Ninh Binh district.

4. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve

For those looking to extend their explorations beyond Ninh Binh, Van Long Nature Reserve is an exceptional wetland reserve particularly favored by avid birdwatchers.

As this protected area boasts an abundance of local flora and fauna, nature enthusiasts seeking to observe Vietnamese wildlife will find it an invaluable addition to their itinerary.

The wetlands are home to various species, including monkeys, reptiles, and numerous bird varieties.

5. Have lunch at Cho Bop Market

If you seek affordable local cuisine in Ninh Binh town and prefer an alternative to the snail restaurants, Cho Bop Market is the central market to explore.

Here, a variety of food carts and small cafes offer traditional Vietnamese dishes, including flavorful noodle soups and other fried delicacies.

Additionally, fresh fruits and vegetables are available, providing an opportunity to sample local produce; however, it is recommended to visit in the morning to take advantage of the most extensive selection.

6. Shop at Van Lan

Located near Tam Coc, Van Lan is a small village renowned for its handicrafts.

The village is particularly acclaimed for its intricate embroidery, and visitors may encounter numerous artisans diligently engaged in their craft.

Items available for purchase include napkins, pillowcases, tablecloths, and t-shirts. Visitors are advised to haggle, as negotiating prices is customary in this region.

7. Bich Dong Pagoda

Located just past Tam Coc, the Bich Dong Pagoda is an intriguing site dating back to the 15th century.

It is situated on a mountainside and comprises three levels known as the Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas.

The pagodas are constructed adjacent to caves that visitors can explore during their visit.

As expected from pagodas built into cliffs, the ascent to the top is steep, but the views are truly rewarding.

8. Spend the day at Hoa Lu

Another noteworthy destination for day trips from Ninh Binh is Hoa Lu, which some travelers overlook in favor of the nearby Tam Coc and Van Long.

However, many are unaware that Hoa Lu was once the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th century and features a large citadel filled with scenic temples that you can freely explore.

Consequently, it is certainly worth considering a visit if you are in the area.

9. Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is one of Vietnam’s primary national parks, established in 1962. It is part of an extensive area of protected land in Ninh Binh, aimed at conserving wildlife that has experienced significant decline due to poaching.

This national park encompasses 222 square kilometers and is characterized by its tropical forests, housing a diverse array of wildlife.

Visitors can expect to observe approximately 307 bird species along with 133 mammal species and 122 reptile species.

Moreover, there are over 2,000 different plant species, making it a vital destination for nature enthusiasts.

10. Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center

At Cuc Phuong National Park, visitors can explore the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, which is managed by the Frankfurt Zoological Society.

This facility houses 150 monkeys, alongside 12 types of langur and 3 gibbon species.

The animals housed here were rescued to ensure their safety from illegal wildlife trading. The center focuses on educating visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation in Vietnam.

You may also visit the Turtle Conservation Center using the same ticket as the rescue center.

11. Admire Chua Bai Dinh

Chua Bai Dinh represents a vibrant Buddhist temple complex situated on a picturesque hill near Ninh Binh town.

Constructed in 2014, it has rapidly gained recognition as one of the region’s prominent attractions.

The entrance features walkways flanked by 500 stone arhats (representations of enlightened Buddhists), while the Phap Chu Pagoda consists of three tiers.

Additionally, the complex is home to a bronze Buddha that weighs 100 tons and stands 10 meters tall, alongside two smaller gilded Buddhas.

12. Explore Mua Cave

Positioned alongside picturesque rice paddies, Mua Cave offers spectacular views over the surrounding peaks.

A stone staircase leads visitors to the entrance of the cave, passing eerie karst formations along the way.

Upon climbing the 500 steps to the summit, you will reach the altar of Quan Am, the revered Goddess of Mercy, and the vistas from the top provide breathtaking views of the Ngo Dong River.

13. Try the goat meat

Many visitors are unaware that Ninh Binh is famous for its mountain goat, locally known as de nui.

This meat is regarded as a specialty in the region and is typically served with fried rice called com chien.

It boasts a gamey flavor, often barbecued to produce a smoky, savory dish that should not be missed during your visit.

The goat is frequently accompanied by rice paper rolls and an array of fresh herbs.

14. Take a boat trip in Trang An

Adjacent to Ninh Binh, Trang An is celebrated for its scenic waterways. You can rent a boat and drift along the Sao Khe River.

This journey takes you through captivating caves, allowing you to appreciate the landscape while also visiting the caves and temples.

Typically, boat trips last around two hours and Trang An is located approximately 7 kilometers from Ninh Binh town, making it easily accessible for a day trip.

15. Scale the Hang Mua Peak

Hang Mua Peak is renowned as one of the most remarkable sites in Tam Coc, requiring a trek of approximately 500 steps to reach the summit.

The effort is rewarded upon arrival at the top, as the panoramic views showcase some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Vietnam, encompassing the Red River Delta and towering mountains.

It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear, especially during the rainy season, as the steps can become slippery.

This location also houses Mua Cave; however, visitors can opt to simply hike along the mountain trail if they prefer to avoid cave exploration.

16. Tour the Turtle Conservation Center

Additionally located within Cuc Phuong National Park is the Turtle Conservation Center, which houses over 1,000 aquatic creatures.

This includes 20 species of turtles, many of which have been rescued from poachers or smugglers.

Visitors can observe the turtles swimming in the center’s ponds, and there is also a visitor center providing information on the conservation efforts undertaken to protect these turtles.

17. Have a beer on the waterfront

Ninh Binh Town is famous for its bia hoi, the local draft beer.

Thus, if you want to unwind with a refreshing drink after a long day of sightseeing, this is the perfect spot to do so.

The primary bia hoi area in Ninh Binh is located along the riverside, offering stunning views of the water whilst enjoying the sunset.

18. Take a bicycle tour

Exploring Ninh Binh by bicycle is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the area.

The terrain is predominantly flat, making it easy to rent a bicycle and visit various attractions throughout town.

Many guesthouses provide complimentary bicycles for their guests, or you can opt for a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the region’s key sights while sharing insights about its history and culture.

19. Take a trip to Chicken Village

Known as Kenh Ga in Vietnamese, Chicken Village consists of a floating community in Ninh Binh, renowned for its specialized oarsmen and women.

A unique aspect of this location is the local tradition of rowing boats using their feet, offering a fascinating glimpse into an authentic fishing village in Vietnam.

You can take a boat tour of the floating village and observe this unconventional rowing method up close.

The riverside town is visually appealing and deserves an afternoon for leisurely exploration of its charming alleyways.

20. Check out the Thung Nham Bird Garden

Interestingly, the Thung Nham Bird Garden is not widely recognized in Ninh Binh, despite being a charming destination worthy of a visit.

Situated in the mountains, the park is renowned as a nesting ground for numerous native bird species.

For the best experience, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon, as the trees are populated with a dazzling variety of birds.

Alongside birdwatching, visitors can also partake in fishing and, depending on the season, even camping within the park.

21. Try the local food

Ninh Binh is celebrated for its unique local specialties, one of which is known as com chay.

This dish features rice that is scorched and scraped from the bottom of a cooking pot.

While it may not sound appealing, it yields a nutty, crunchy texture that is a highlight of the region’s cuisine.

Typically served topped with succulent pork, com chay can also complement goat meat, replacing the standard pork option.

22. Visit the Hoa Lu Temples

Nestled against Yen Ngua Mountain, two temples in Hoa Lu are embellished with attractive pillars coated in dark red lacquer.

The most prominent of these is called Dinh Tien Hoang, dedicated to the Dinh Dynasty period, and it was restored in the 17th century. A stone throne graces the front of the temple, while the interior showcases a statue representing Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang alongside his offspring.

Typical bronze bells common in all Vietnamese temples can also be found here.

23. Have a drink at Chookie’s

If you are searching for a venue to enjoy a beverage in Ninh Binh town, look no further than Chookie’s.

This establishment is a popular drinking spot in the evenings and also offers delicious Vietnamese and Western cuisine at affordable prices.

While the nightlife in Ninh Binh may be limited, this is an excellent option for evening entertainment.

The restaurant also provides tours and bicycle rentals for those wanting to explore the region further.

24. Eat at Father Cooking

Countless visitors and locals affirm that Father Cooking ranks among the best dining establishments in Ninh Binh.

This family-owned restaurant excels at offering local specialties at competitive prices, featuring a menu filled with noodle and rice dishes.

With Ninh Binh’s reputation for regional delicacies such as goat meat and snails, this restaurant provides an outstanding opportunity to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine during your stay.

25. Hike to Silver Cloud Peak

If you are in Ninh Binh and enjoy hiking, Silver Cloud Peak within Cuc Phuong National Park is a must-visit.

This trek encompasses approximately four hours of walking, thus requiring visitors to be in reasonable physical condition to undertake it; however, the stunning views throughout the journey are incredibly rewarding.

You can either hike with a ranger, which is advisable, or explore independently if you are feeling adventurous.

Night treks are also available, presenting an ideal opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife in the park.