What to Do in Ninh Binh at Night: A Comprehensive Guide

Ninh Binh is a beautiful and peaceful destination in northern Vietnam, attracting tourists from all over the world. During the day, the area is famous for its stunning landscapes of karst mountains, rice paddies, and rivers. But what about at night? Fear not, for Ninh Binh still has plenty of activities to offer once the sun goes down. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Ninh Binh at night.

1. Take a Night Boat Ride on Trang An River

One of the most popular activities to do in Ninh Binh is taking a boat ride along the Trang An river during the day. But did you know you can also experience this beautiful sight at night? During the night, the river and the surrounding limestone mountains are lit up with colorful lights, creating a breathtaking sight. The boat ride typically lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours and costs around VND 200,000 ($9 USD) per person.

2. Stroll Around Tam Coc Night Market

Tam Coc Night Market is a lively place with an array of stalls and vendors selling various items such as handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, and local street food. The market offers visitors a glimpse into the local culture and is a great place to interact with the locals. It is open every night from around 6 pm to 10 pm.

3. Get a Massage

After a day of exploring and hiking in Ninh Binh, there’s nothing better than getting a relaxing massage to unwind all those sore muscles. There are many massage parlors dotted around Ninh Binh, offering various types of massage treatments like traditional Vietnamese, hot stone, and Thai massages. Most massage parlors are open until around 10 pm, so you can easily get a massage after dinner.

4. Watch a Traditional Water Puppet Show

Water Puppetry is a traditional art form in northern Vietnam, and Ninh Binh is home to one of the best water puppet theaters in the country. Watching a water puppet show is a unique experience that you shouldn’t miss. The show typically lasts around 45 minutes and tells traditional Vietnamese folk tales through the movements of puppets on a water stage.

5. Relax in a Rooftop Bar

If you’re looking for a more laid-back evening, head to one of Ninh Binh’s rooftop bars. Here, you can enjoy a cold beer, a cocktail, or a cup of Vietnamese coffee while gazing out at the scenic views of the city. Some popular rooftop bars in Ninh Binh include Sky Bia Hoi, Lotus Bar, and Tam Coc View Bar.

Conclusion

No need to worry about a shortage of activities in Ninh Binh at night. From taking a night boat ride on Trang An river, strolling around Tam Coc night market, getting a massage, watching a traditional water puppet show, to relaxing in a rooftop bar – there is something for everyone. So, make the most out of your trip to Ninh Binh by exploring its beauty during the day and indulging in its nightlife after dark.

An Insider’s Guide to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a charming city located in northern Vietnam. It is known for its picturesque landscape of karst mountains, serene rivers, and lush rice fields. Visitors come to Ninh Binh to experience its natural beauty, learn about its rich history, and sample its delicious cuisine. But what about at night? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you what to do in Ninh Binh after the sun sets.

Explore the Nightlife

While Ninh Binh is not known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of things to do in the evening. One popular spot is the Night Market, located in the city center. Here, you’ll find vendors selling local food, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and try some authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

For those in search of a drink, there are several bars and pubs in the city. One of the most popular spots is the Ninh Binh Beer Garden. It’s a relaxing outdoor space with cold beer, live music, and good company. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, head to the rooftop bar of the Hoa Lu Hotel. From here, you can enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning views of the city.

Experience the Nighttime Landscape

While Ninh Binh’s natural beauty is best experienced during the day, there are some nighttime activities that allow you to appreciate the landscape in a different way. One option is to take a boat ride on the Tam Coc river. Although you won’t be able to see much in the dark, the peaceful ambiance of the river at night is a unique experience. The boats are often decorated with colorful lanterns, adding to the magical atmosphere.

Another way to see Ninh Binh’s landscape is to take a bike ride at night. Many rental shops in the city offer night bike tours that take you through the countryside. It’s a great way to escape the city lights and see the stars.

Savor the Local Cuisine

No trip to Ninh Binh is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. While there are plenty of options available during the day, there are some dishes that are particularly delicious at night. One dish to try is Bia Hoi, a light beer that is brewed locally. It’s commonly enjoyed with roasted peanuts and other small side plates.

For a more substantial meal, head to one of the city’s street food stalls. Here, you’ll find a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including pho, banh mi, and bun cha. Most stalls are open until late at night, so you can satisfy your hunger even if you’re out exploring the city.

Uncover the City’s History

Ninh Binh has a rich history dating back to ancient times. At night, a visit to the city’s historical sites can be an enlightening experience. One of the most popular attractions is the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was the political and economic center of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. At night, the site is illuminated, giving it a mystical feel.

You can also visit the Bai Dinh Temple Complex, which is the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia. The complex not only houses temple buildings but also has a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to get off the tourist trail and see a side of Ninh Binh that few visitors get to experience, there are some unique nighttime activities to consider. One is to attend a performance of the Cheo Traditional Opera. This local art form combines singing, dancing, and acting, and has been a favorite pastime of Ninh Binh locals for centuries.

Another option is to visit the complex of Hang Mua. This site includes a temple, cave, and a 500-step staircase that leads to a magnificent viewpoint at the top of a mountain. While the climb is best done during the day, the site is open until late at night, so you can take in the impressive views of the karst formations lit up by moonlight.

In conclusion, while Ninh Binh may be known for its natural beauty and rich history during the day, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied after the sun goes down. From exploring the nightlife and savoring the local cuisine to uncovering the city’s history and off-the-beaten-path adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Ninh Binh at night.