How to Plan Your Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Trang an Mua Cave Day Trip, Boat Trip, Hiking and Cycling from Hanoi
If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, Ninh Binh shouldn’t be missed. It’s a beautiful province located in the northern part of the country, and it’s called the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its stunning scenery. One of the best things to do in Ninh Binh is to take a day trip to see Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Trang an Mua Cave day trip, including what’s included, the itinerary, important pickup information, and more.Overview
This Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Trang an Mua Cave day trip is an all-inclusive tour that takes you to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, Trang An, a picturesque river surrounded by karst cliffs, and Mua Cave, known for its 500 steps that offer a panoramic view of Tam Coc. The tour also includes a boat trip, hiking, and cycling, making it perfect for active travelers.What’s Included
The tour includes:- English speaking tour guide
- A delicious lunch with local foods
- Entrance fees boat tours
- Beverages Tips
Itinerary
The tour starts with pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s old quarter between 7:30-8:15 AM. If you don’t stay in the old quarter, you can go to the Hanoi Opera House at about 8:15 AM to get on the bus. The first stop of the tour is Hoa Lu, which was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Here, you will learn about the history of the city from your guide. The second part of the tour takes you to Trang An, where you will take a traditional boat trip down the river. The area is surrounded by karst cliffs, and you can see beautiful temples and pagodas along the river. After the boat trip, you will have lunch with local foods. Then, the tour takes you to Mua Cave, where you can climb to the top to see a panoramic view of Tam Coc. You will also have the option to go hiking or cycling around the area. The tour ends in the late afternoon, and you will be dropped off at the meeting point.Meeting and Pickup
The pickup is available from hotels in Hanoi’s old quarter between 7:30-8:15 AM. If you don’t stay in the old quarter, you can go to the Hanoi Opera House at about 8:15 AM to get on the bus.What to Expect
The tour takes you to three different locations, so you can expect to see a variety of landscapes and historical sites. Hoa Lu is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you’ll see the ancient temples and pagodas that represent Vietnamese culture and religion. The boat trip in Trang An is a highlight of the tour, and it takes you through a network of rivers surrounded by karst cliffs. You’ll see temples and pagodas along the way, and it’s a great opportunity to take photos. Mua Cave is known for its 500 steps that take you to the top of the mountain. It’s a challenging climb, but the view is worth it. You can also go hiking or cycling around the area to see more of the beautiful scenery.Additional Info
Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let the tour provider know in advance. You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera.Book Your Ninh Binh Hoa Lu Trang an Mua Cave Day Trip Here
If you want to experience the beauty of Ninh Binh’s landscape, this day trip is an excellent option. You can book it through Viator at this link: book the tour here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a unique and fascinating city with a rich culture and history. Its ancient streets, hidden alleys, bustling markets, and delicious cuisine make it one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. If you’re planning to visit Hanoi or just curious about the city, this FAQ will answer some of the most commonly asked questions.1. What is the best time to visit Hanoi?
The best time to visit Hanoi is from September to November and from March to May. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is less crowded. December to February is the coldest time of the year, with temperatures dropping to as low as 10 degrees Celsius. June to August is the hottest and rainiest time, with high humidity and frequent downpours.2. How do I get around in Hanoi?
The best way to get around Hanoi is on foot, especially in the Old Quarter. The city’s narrow streets and alleys are not suitable for cars, and traffic can be chaotic. You can also use a bicycle, a motorbike, or a cyclo (a three-wheel rickshaw) to move around the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available, but make sure to choose reputable companies with good reviews.3. What are some must-visit attractions in Hanoi?
Hanoi has many attractions that are worth visiting, including:- Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
- The Old Quarter
- The Temple of Literature
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum
- Thang Long Imperial Citadel
- Tran Quoc Pagoda
4. What is the local cuisine like in Hanoi?
Hanoi’s cuisine is famous for its diversity and complexity, influenced by Chinese, French, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes include:- Pho: a noodle soup with beef or chicken
- Bun cha: grilled pork with vermicelli noodles
- Banh mi: a sandwich with various fillings
- Cha ca: grilled fish with turmeric and dill
- Bun rieu: a noodle soup with crab meat and tomatoes
- Xoi: sticky rice with various toppings
5. Is Hanoi safe for tourists?
Hanoi is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, like any other major city, there are some risks such as pickpocketing and scams. Make sure to keep your belongings secure, avoid walking alone at night in dark or deserted areas, and be cautious when using taxis and ride-hailing services.6. What should I wear when visiting Hanoi?
Hanoi has a tropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. You should wear light and breathable clothing during the hot months and bring a light jacket or sweater during the cooler months. When visiting temples or other religious sites, it’s respectful to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.7. How can I exchange money in Hanoi?
You can exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange offices, or some hotels in Hanoi. However, exchange rates may vary between different places, so make sure to shop around for the best rates. Avoid exchanging money on the street or with unauthorized dealers, as it’s illegal and risky.8. Is it necessary to tip in Hanoi?
Tipping is not a common practice in Vietnam, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas. In restaurants, it’s not necessary to tip, but you can round up the bill or leave 5-10% if you’re satisfied with the service. You can also tip tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff if you wish, but it’s not expected.9. What souvenirs can I buy in Hanoi?
Hanoi is home to many traditional craft villages and markets, where you can buy unique and authentic souvenirs. Some popular souvenirs include:- Silk products: scarves, clothes, and accessories
- Water puppets: traditional art form of North Vietnam
- Lacquerware: bowls, plates, and boxes
- Embroidery: tablecloths, pillowcases, and wall hangings
- Ceramics: bowls, vases, and tea sets
10. What is the currency used in Hanoi?
The currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese dong (VND). US dollars and euros are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s essential to carry dong for small transactions and street food. You can exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange offices, or some hotels in Hanoi. ATMs are also widely available, but make sure to check your bank’s fees and exchange rates before withdrawing money.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is an ideal travel destination for tourists all around the globe. It has a rich history, breathtaking natural scenery, delicious food, and welcoming locals. Hanoi is an intriguing blend of traditional and modern culture, offering visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the vibrancy of Vietnamese life. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Hanoi, Vietnam.1. Take a Walk Around the Old Quarter
The Old Quarter in Hanoi is the historic heart of the city, with narrow streets and lanes, old colonial buildings, and bustling street markets. The best way to explore the Old Quarter is by foot, taking time to explore and soak in the atmosphere. You will find plenty of small shops, cafes, and restaurants in the Old Quarter, selling anything from traditional textiles to street food. You can spend hours getting lost in the maze of streets and discovering hidden gems.2. Visit the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is a must-visit attraction in Hanoi. It is the oldest university in Vietnam, founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. The temple is dedicated to Confucius, and it is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. You will find several courtyards, pavilions, and temples inside the complex, housing various artifacts and exhibits. It is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s intellectual and cultural history.3. Walk Along the Hoan Kiem Lake
The Hoan Kiem Lake is situated in the heart of Hanoi, and it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is a place of historical and cultural significance, and you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks while taking in the stunning views of the lake. You can visit the Ngoc Son Temple, which is a picturesque temple located on an island in the center of the lake. It is also a popular spot for locals to exercise, with people jogging, walking, and practicing tai chi in the early morning or late afternoon.4. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex
The Ho Chi Minh Complex is one of the top attractions in Hanoi, dedicated to the life and work of the beloved late leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. You will find various buildings and exhibits within the complex, including Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and Stilt House. The complex is full of history, and you can learn a lot about Ho Chi Minh and the Vietnamese struggle for independence from French colonial rule.5. Explore the Vietnamese Food Scene
The food in Hanoi is a sensory delight, and you can find some of the best Vietnamese dishes in this city. From street food to high-end restaurants, there is something for everyone. You can try the famous Pho, a noodle soup with beef or chicken, or Bun Cha, a grilled pork noodle dish. You can also visit the street markets where vendors sell a variety of other foods such as Banh Mi, Banh Xeo, Nem, and many others. The food in Hanoi is delicious, cheap, and authentic, and you can’t leave the city without trying some of it.6. Watch a Water Puppet Show
A water puppet show is a unique cultural experience that you can only find in Hanoi. It is a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. The performers stand in waist-deep water behind a screen and manipulate the puppets with long poles. The show tells stories of Vietnamese folklore and history, and it is a fascinating spectacle to watch. You can catch a show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, which is one of the best places to see a water puppet show.7. Shop at the Night Market
The Hanoi Night Market is a popular attraction in the Old Quarter, running from Friday to Sunday nights. You can find everything from clothes, jewelry, souvenirs, and street food at the market. The market is crowded and lively, and it’s a great place to spend a couple of hours browsing the stalls and haggling with vendors. You can also try some local snacks and drinks while soaking in the atmosphere.8. Visit the Dong Xuan Market
The Dong Xuan Market is the largest indoor market in Hanoi, and it’s a great place to get lost in the sights, sounds, and smells of Hanoi. You can find almost everything here, from fresh produce to electronics, clothes, shoes, and souvenirs. You can haggle with vendors for a bargain, and you will find some of the best deals here. It’s not just a market; it’s an experience.Book Your Tour Now
Hanoi is a city that you will fall in love with instantly. It has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies and culture enthusiasts. You can spend weeks exploring the city and still not discover everything it has to offer. The above list is just a snapshot of some of the top things to do in Hanoi, but there are many more things to explore. Whether you’re backpacking, on a family vacation, or a lover of adventure, Hanoi won’t disappoint you. So, pack your bags and start planning your trip to Hanoi today!Table of Contents
