Ninh Binh in 2 days: a day-by-day plan
Updated 3 November 2026 · 3 min read
In short
With 2 days in Ninh Binh, take the Trang An boat in the morning and climb Hang Mua late in the day, then keep the next day for Tam Coc by bike, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and, if you have time, Bai Dinh pagoda.
The plan
| When | Day 1 | Day 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Trang An boat | Tam Coc by bike, rice fields |
| Lunch | Goat, a local speciality | Lunch in the village |
| Afternoon | Hoa Lu, ancient capital | Bai Dinh pagoda or back to Hanoi |
| Evening | Hang Mua at sunset | Optional night train to Hue |
Good to know
- Hang Mua: about 500 steps to the viewpoint. Leave before sunset, and bring water.
- Golden rice fields: around late May and early June.
- Onward trip: the night train to Hue stops at Ninh Binh, so no need to go back through Hanoi.
Activities to book in Ninh Binh
Cruises, day trips and guided tours — free cancellation up to 24 hours before on most offers.
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See also where to stay in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc or Trang An and Ninh Binh to Hue.
Frequently asked questions
Are 2 days in Ninh Binh enough?
Yes for Trang An, Hang Mua, Tam Coc and Hoa Lu.
What should you do first in Ninh Binh?
The Trang An boat and the climb up Hang Mua for the view.
How to get from Ninh Binh to Hue?
By night train, about 10 to 11 hours, without going back through Hanoi.