Vietnam · Culture

3-Day Hanoi and Ninh Bình Heritage Tour with Tam Cốc and Bái Đính

3 Days Round trip from Hanoi Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm Lake, and cultural landmarks
02 Cruise along Tam Cốc river, surrounded by limestone karsts and rice paddies
03 Visit Bái Đính Pagoda, the largest temple complex in Vietnam
04 Discover Hoa Lư Ancient Capital with historic temples and royal heritage

Discover the cultural heart of Northern Vietnam on this 3-day journey from Hanoi to Ninh Bình. Explore Hanoi's iconic landmarks, ancient temples, and vibrant Old Quarter before escaping to the serene countryside of Ninh Bình, with its dramatic limestone karsts, tranquil rivers, and historic capitals. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise through Tam Cốc or Tràng An, visit Bái Đính Pagoda, and step back in time at Hoa Lư Ancient Capital. This tour blends culture, nature, and local life for first-time visitors.

10:30 - 12:30: Boat cruise in Tam Cốc or Tràng An through limestone karsts, caves, and rice paddies.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Hanoi, Ninh Bình, Hoa Lư, Tam Cốc-Bích Động, Bái Đính

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Hanoi City Discovery and Cultural Heritage

07:00 - 08:00: Pick-up at hotel, welcome briefing, and meet your guide.
08:00 - 12:00: Explore Hanoi highlights: Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Ngọc Sơn Temple, and an Old Quarter walking tour (optional cyclo ride).
12:00 - 13:00: Lunch at a local restaurant featuring Phở Hà Nội, Bún Chả, and fresh spring rolls.
13:30 - 17:00: Visit the Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda.
17:30 - 19:00: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 02

Hanoi to Ninh Bình with Tam Cốc and Bái Đính Pagoda

07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel.
08:00 - 10:30: Drive from Hanoi to Ninh Bình (approximately 2.5 hours).
10:30 - 12:30: Boat cruise in Tam Cốc or Tràng An through limestone karsts, caves, and rice paddies.
12:30 - 13:30: Lunch at a riverside restaurant with local fish and cơm cháy.
14:00 - 17:00: Visit the Bái Đính Pagoda complex.
17:30 - 19:00: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Ninh Bình.

Day 03

Ninh Bình to Hoa Lư and Return to Hanoi

07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast at hotel.
08:00 - 10:00: Visit Hoa Lư Ancient Capital, including the King Đinh and King Lê Temples.
10:30 - 12:00: Free time for photography or local shopping.
12:00 - 13:00: Lunch at a local restaurant.
13:00 - 15:30: Drive back to Hanoi.
15:30 - 16:00: Drop-off at hotel or airport. End of tour.