How to Plan Your Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour in Hanoi

Are you planning a trip to Hanoi and looking for a unique experience outside of the city? If so, taking the Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour may be the perfect option for you! This tour is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful Vietnamese countryside, learn about local culture and history, and enjoy breathtaking scenery. In this how-to guide, we will show you how to plan and book this exciting tour.

Highlights of the Tour

The Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour includes several exciting experiences that you won’t want to miss! Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

• Visit the ancient Dinh King temple in the capital of Hoa Lu
• Climb 500 steps to the top of the Mua mountain to see spectacular views
• Savor the bright flavors of Vietnamese food at a bungalow beside Tam Coc river
• Feel the cool breeze as you cycle the peaceful country roads to Bich Dong Pagoda
• Enjoy a refreshing sampan boat trip on Tam Coc river and admire the landscape

Tour Description

The tour will start with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. From there, an air-conditioned limousine bus will take you to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you will visit the King Dinh Temple. This temple is dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang, who ruled Vietnam from 968 to 980. The temple was built in the 17th century and is surrounded by stunning scenery. After visiting the King Dinh Temple, the tour continues to Mua Cave, which is located at the foot of Mua Mountain. To reach the cave, visitors must climb a series of steep stairs totaling 500 steps. Once you reach the top, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, including Tam Coc and Ngo Dong River. After exploring Mua Cave, you will head to a bungalow beside the Tam Coc river to savor a delicious set menu lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine. After lunch, you will cycle along peaceful country roads to Bich Dong Pagoda. The pagoda is located inside a cave on the side of a mountain, and visitors can marvel at the Buddhist statues and intricate carvings. Finally, the tour will end with a sampan boat trip along the Tam Coc River. The river winds through picturesque scenery, including karst formations, rice paddies, and limestone cliffs. This part of the tour is an excellent opportunity to relax, soak up the scenery and take some stunning photos.

What is included in the Tour?

The Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour includes everything you need for a fantastic experience:

• Air-conditioned limousine bus transportation to and from Hanoi Old Quarter
• Round-trip transfers
• Complimentary water bottles on the bus
• All entrance and sightseeing fees
• Set menu lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine
• Boat trip on Tam Coc River
• Bicycles to cycle to Bich Dong Pagoda
• Professional English-speaking tour guide

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour, you can do so easily through the GetYourGuide website. Simply follow the link below to book the tour: Book the Tour Here We hope this guide has helped you plan your Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour in Hanoi. This tour is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty, culture, and history of Vietnam outside of the bustling city of Hanoi. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

FAQs About Hanoi

Hanoi is the charming and vibrant capital city of Vietnam, known for its rich history, culture, food, and scenic beauty. If you are planning to visit Hanoi, there may be several questions running through your mind. Here, we have compiled some commonly asked questions about Hanoi to help you prepare for your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is from September to November and from March to April when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. During these months, the temperature is mild, and there is less rainfall. However, even in other months, Hanoi is a great destination as long as you are prepared for the weather.

2. How to get around in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a well-developed transportation system, which includes buses, taxis, motorbikes, bicycles, and trains. Taxis are readily available, but they are relatively expensive. Buses are cheap, but they can be crowded and confusing for foreigners. Motorbikes and bicycles are great options for short distances or exploring the city’s narrow alleys. Another popular option is to use Grab or GoViet, which are ride-hailing apps similar to Uber.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Hanoi?

There is no shortage of tourist attractions in Hanoi. Some of the must-visit places include:

a. Hoan Kiem Lake –

Hoan Kiem Lake is a scenic lake in the center of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and temples. It is a great place to relax, take a stroll, or enjoy a cup of coffee at a lakeside café.

b. Old Quarter –

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi, characterized by narrow alleys, old colonial architecture, and street markets. It is a great place to explore on foot, try local food, and shop for souvenirs.

c. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum –

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can pay their respects to the revered leader of Vietnam. The mausoleum is open to the public, but visitors should be dressed modestly and maintain silence inside the building.

d. Temple of Literature –

The Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first university and a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. It is a great place to learn about Vietnam’s history, culture, and education system.

4. What is the local cuisine in Hanoi, and what dishes should I try?

Hanoi is a food lover’s paradise, known for its fresh and flavorful cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

a. Pho –

Pho is Vietnam’s national dish, consisting of a savory broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meats such as beef or chicken. It is a staple breakfast food in Hanoi and can be found at street-side stalls.

b. Banh Mi –

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a French baguette, meat, pickled vegetables, and sauces. It is a popular street food and can be found at small shops and street-side stalls.

c. Bun Cha –

Bun Cha is a grilled meat dish served with rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce. It is a sweet and savory dish that is unique to Hanoi.

d. Egg Coffee –

Egg coffee is a decadent and creamy coffee made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and Vietnamese coffee. It is a popular drink in Hanoi and can be found at coffee shops throughout the city.

5. What is the currency used in Hanoi, and where can I exchange money?

The official currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and it is widely accepted throughout the city. ATMs are readily available, and credit cards are accepted at upscale hotels and restaurants. You can exchange money at banks, jewelry shops, and currency exchange booths throughout Hanoi. It is recommended to exchange money at banks or authorized exchange booths to avoid scams.

6. What are some cultural norms to be aware of in Hanoi?

Vietnam has a unique culture, and it is essential to respect their customs and traditions. Here are some cultural norms to be aware of when visiting Hanoi:

• When visiting temples or other religious sites, ensure you dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
• It is customary to greet people with a smile and a slight bow of the head.
• When eating, use chopsticks to pick up food, and do not use them to point or gesture.
• Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, especially for services such as taxi rides or restaurants.
• When entering someone’s home, it is customary to bring a gift, such as fruits or flowers.

7. Is it safe to travel to Hanoi?

Hanoi is a relatively safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is recommended to take basic precautions, such as avoiding dark alleys at night, keeping your valuables safe, and being aware of scams. Traffic can be chaotic in Hanoi, so be cautious when crossing the road, and use marked pedestrian crossings whenever possible.

Book Your Tour Now

Hanoi is a great destination for travelers, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can prepare for your trip and make the most of your experience in this vibrant city. Remember to respect the local culture, try the local cuisine, and stay safe during your travels.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is famous for its rich culture, delicious food, and stunning architecture. As a tourist, there are many things to see and do in Hanoi. In this guide, we will provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Hanoi.

1. Visit the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi and is a must-visit for all tourists. It is known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and vibrant culture. To fully experience the Old Quarter, start by exploring the streets on foot. You will find many shops, markets, and restaurants where you can try local food and purchase souvenirs. You can also take a cyclo tour, which is a traditional Vietnamese bicycle-taxi. The cyclo tour will take you through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, allowing you to see the local life up close.

2. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. You can take a leisurely walk around the lake, admire the views, and take pictures with the famous red bridge. To fully experience the lake, you can also visit the Ngoc Son Temple, which is located on an island in the middle of the lake. The temple is dedicated to the national hero, Tran Hung Dao, and is a great place to learn more about Vietnamese history and culture.

3. Sample the Local Food

Vietnamese food is famous around the world, and Hanoi is the perfect place to sample it. You can find local food vendors throughout the city, serving everything from pho, banh mi, and bun cha. One of the best places to try local food is at the street markets, such as Dong Xuan Market and Cho Hom Market. Here, you can find a wide variety of street food vendors serving up delicious local dishes.

4. Visit the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a must-visit for any tourist interested in Vietnamese history and culture. It is the oldest university in Vietnam and was built in 1070. The temple is dedicated to the scholar Confucius and is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the city. In addition to the temple, you can also visit the nearby Vietnam Fine Arts Museum and the Vietnamese Women’s Museum. Both museums provide insight into the country’s history and culture.

5. Watch a Water Puppet Show

Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form that has been around for over a thousand years. The water puppet shows feature puppets that are controlled by puppeteers who stand behind a screen in a pool of water. One of the best places to watch a water puppet show is at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. The theater is located in the Old Quarter and has daily shows in both Vietnamese and English.

6. Visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum

The Hoa Lo Prison Museum is a historic site that was used during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. It is a somber reminder of the country’s past and provides insight into the struggles of the Vietnamese people. The museum is located in the French Quarter of the city and is open daily. It is a must-visit for any tourist interested in history and culture.

7. Take a Day Trip to Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam and is a popular day trip destination from Hanoi. The bay features thousands of limestone islands and islets, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a day cruise along the bay, enjoying the stunning scenery and stopping at local fishing villages. It is definitely worth the trip from Hanoi.

Book Your Tour Now

Hanoi is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. As a tourist, there are many things to see and do in the city, from exploring the narrow streets of the Old Quarter to taking a day trip to the stunning Halong Bay. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that you make the most of your time as a tourist in Hanoi. Don’t forget to try the local food and immerse yourself in the culture of this wonderful city.