How to Plan Your Day Tour of Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Caves in Hanoi

Are you planning a trip to Hanoi and want to explore the best attractions in the area? Joining a day tour to Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Caves could be the perfect choice for you. This tour combines natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and traditional food, making it an unforgettable experience. In this post, we will guide you step by step on how to plan your tour and enjoy every moment of it.

Experience Highlights

The Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Caves tour is designed to showcase the best of Vietnamese culture, history, and nature. Here are some of the highlights you can expect:

• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda – the largest pagoda in Vietnam.
• Enjoy a unique boat trip along Trang An stream to explore Trang An cave complex.
• Bike around traditional villages in the Trang An area.
• Savor Vietnamese traditional food at a local restaurant.

Now, let’s dive into how to plan your day tour:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

Before making any travel arrangements, booking your tour is the first step. We recommend booking through GetYourGuide, as they offer a reliable and affordable service. The tour costs $38 per person and includes transportation, entrance fees, boat trip, bike rental, lunch, and English-speaking guide. You can also cancel or change your reservation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in your plans.

Step 2: Prepare for the Tour

Once you have booked your tour, it’s time to prepare for the day. Here are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Bring comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking involved.
• Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting temples and pagodas. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring a small backpack to keep your belongings and water bottles.

Step 3: On the Tour Day

On the day of your tour, you will be picked up from your hotel between 7:30 am to 8:00 am by a friendly guide. Make sure you have your confirmation voucher, passport, and comfortable clothing. You will then board a comfortable bus and head to Ninh Binh province, located in the South of Hanoi.

Departure and Break Time at Highway Stop

After driving for about 1.5 hours, there will be a short break of 15-20 minutes to relax and use the bathroom facilities.

Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda

The first stop of the tour is Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam. The pagoda is home to many religious and cultural relics, including the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam. You will have around 2 hours to explore the complex and learn about its history and significance. The guide will take you on a guided tour and provide insights into the cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

After visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda, you will head to a local restaurant for lunch. The restaurant serves a variety of local dishes, including goat meat, fish, chicken, fried rice, and vegetarian options. The buffet-style meal is included in your tour package, and you can enjoy as much as you want.

Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

After lunch, it’s time to explore the Trang An Scenic Landscape complex. This complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. You will join a unique boat trip along the Trang An stream to explore the cave system and pass through mountains, hills, and valleys. If you feel adventurous, you can also rent a bike and cycle around the traditional villages in the area.

Visit Mua Cave

The last stop of the tour is Mua Cave, which offers a panoramic view of the stunning Tam Coc area. To reach the cave, you will hike up around 500 steps, but the reward is worth it. From the top, you can admire the picturesque landscapes, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, a day tour to Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Caves is an excellent opportunity to explore the best of Hanoi’s culture and nature. By following the steps we have outlined, you can easily plan your tour, make reservations, and prepare for the day. Remember to bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a small backpack, and be respectful when visiting temples and pagodas. Book your tour here and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Hanoi.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, situated in the north of the country. It’s a beautiful city full of interesting history, culture, and attractions. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve been before, you’re sure to have questions about this fascinating city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Hanoi:

1. What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is during the autumn months from September to November. This is when the weather is mild and dry, and the trees in the city turn beautiful shades of yellow and red. Spring, from March to April, is also a good time to visit as the weather is mild and sunny, and there are festivals to enjoy. Avoid visiting during peak summer months, as the heat and humidity can be quite uncomfortable.

2. What is the currency in Hanoi?

The currency used in Hanoi and throughout Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s best to exchange your money at a bank or authorized money exchange center, and it’s always a good idea to carry some small change with you as many places don’t accept large bills.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Hanoi?

There are many attractions in Hanoi that are worth visiting, but here are a few must-see spots:

• Hoan Kiem Lake
• The Temple of Literature
• The Old Quarter
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

4. What is the best way to get around Hanoi?

The best way to get around Hanoi is on foot or by motorbike. The city is full of small alleyways and narrow streets that can’t be accessed by car, so walking is often the easiest way to explore. Motorbikes are also a popular mode of transportation, and they can be rented from many places around the city. Taxis and buses are also available, but they can be more expensive and less convenient than walking or riding a motorbike.

5. What foods should I try in Hanoi?

Hanoi is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many local dishes that are worth trying. Here are a few must-try foods:

• Pho
• Banh mi
• Bun cha
• Cao lau
• Xoi
• Egg coffee

6. What is the nightlife like in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone. There are many bars, clubs, and pubs throughout the city, as well as street-side restaurants and cafes that stay open late. The Old Quarter area is particularly popular for nightlife, with a wide variety of places to choose from.

7. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in Hanoi?

There are a few cultural customs to be aware of when visiting Hanoi. Firstly, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing, and always remove your shoes before entering a temple. It’s also polite to ask permission before taking photos of local people, and to avoid pointing your feet at anyone, as they are considered to be dirty in Vietnamese culture.

8. Is Hanoi safe for tourists?

Hanoi is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s always wise to take precautions when traveling in a new place. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables out of sight, and avoid walking alone late at night. Petty crime and scams can occur, so it’s best to be vigilant and take caution when dealing with strangers.

9. What souvenirs should I buy in Hanoi?

There are many unique souvenirs to be found in Hanoi, including:

• Hand-embroidered textiles
• Lacquerware
• Silk products
• Handicrafts from ethnic minority groups
• Water puppets
• Coffee and tea

10. How do I get to Hanoi from the airport?

The easiest way to get from the airport to Hanoi city center is by taxi or private car. There are also public buses that run from the airport to the city, but they can be less convenient for travelers with lots of luggage. It’s best to book a taxi or private car in advance to avoid any hassle upon arrival.

Now that you know more about Hanoi, you’re ready to start planning your trip to this beautiful and historic city. Enjoy your stay!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Hanoi

Hanoi is the vibrant capital city of Vietnam, with a rich and diverse culture, history, food and people. It’s an exciting and bustling metropolis that offers a lot to tourists who are looking for an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we will go over different ways to spend your time in Hanoi.

1. Visit the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, also known as Van Mieu, is a stunning and peaceful complex of courtyards, pavilions and gardens that was built as a tribute to Confucius. It is one of the most significant historical sites in Hanoi and a must-visit for all tourists. The complex consists of five courtyards and several gates, each adorned with beautiful details. Inside, you will find a collection of stelae that record the names of doctorate holders in the imperial examinations.

2. Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi and a great place to experience the local culture. It is composed of 36 streets that all specialize in different types of goods, such as silk, ceramics, jewelry, and much more. Wander through the narrow and winding streets, admire the old architecture, and stop by some of the street food vendors to try some local dishes. Don’t forget to negotiate prices at the markets and be prepared to haggle a bit.

3. Watch a Water Puppet Show

Water puppetry is a unique form of Vietnamese folk art that originated in the Red River Delta region. The shows are performed in a waist-deep pool of water with puppets controlled by skilled puppeteers standing behind a screen. The stories narrated are usually tales that depict the local people’s daily life, myths, and legends. Watching a water puppet show is a fun and cultural experience that you won’t want to miss.

4. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important landmark of Hanoi and a tribute to the life and legacy of the Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is located in the center of Ba Dinh Square and houses Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body. Visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum in silent procession to view the preserved body, so be sure to dress appropriately, and to be respectful of the customs and traditions of the Vietnamese people.

5. Take a street food tour

Hanoian cuisine is a melting pot of Chinese, French, and Vietnamese influences, making it unique and delicious. Take a street food tour to sample local delicacies such as Banh Cuon, Bun Cha, Pho, and Bia Hoi. The friendly tour guides will take you to the best spots, teach you about the different ingredients, and tell you about the local food culture. You’ll leave feeling full and satisfied.

6. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake

The Hoan Kiem Lake is a beautiful lake located in the center of Hanoi that has been a gathering place for locals and tourists alike for centuries. The lake is surrounded by greenery, temples, and pagodas, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. There is also a famous red-painted wooden Bridge, known as The Huc Bridge, that connects the path from the lake’s shore to the Ngoc Son Temple. Be sure to visit Ngoc Son Temple, which is located on a small island in the lake, and has a beautiful backdrop as well.

7. Visit the Museum of Ethnology

The Museum of Ethnology is a fascinating museum that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of the 54 ethnic groups that make up Vietnam. The museum has two exhibition buildings, an outdoor display area, and a research center. The exhibits include traditional costumes, textiles, tools, musical instruments, and more. The museum is a great place for families and groups who want to learn about Vietnam’s rich and diverse culture.

8. Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bay is located about four hours from Hanoi and is composed of around 1,600 limestone islands and islets. There are many activities you can take part in, including cruising on a traditional junk, visiting caves, kayaking, and more. A day trip to Ha Long Bay will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip.

Final thoughts

Hanoi is a city that will enchant you with its beauty, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, adventure, or just having a good time, you’ll find it all in Hanoi. Our guide will help you plan your trip and make the most out of your time in this wonderful city!