Multi Day Tour in Ninh Binh and Halong from Hanoi

Travelers dreaming of Vietnam’s top north, this 2-day guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Ninh Binh’s natural beauty and Halong Bay’s legendary seascape. While it’s often praised for its value, expert guides, and authentic experiences, it’s also important to keep in mind the busy schedule and group size that may not suit everyone.

What I appreciate most about this tour is how it seamlessly connects historical sites, scenic landscapes, and adventure activities—all in just two days. The bungalow stay in Ninh Binh, a highlight in itself, offers a peaceful retreat after exploring the ancient temples and limestone karsts. The luxury cruise on Halong Bay with activities like kayaking and swimming adds a touch of indulgence. That said, with a packed itinerary, some travelers might find the pace a little brisk.

This tour is ideal for those who want an immersive, well-organized experience of northern Vietnam without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It suits travelers eager for stunning views, cultural insights, and memorable adventures—especially if you’re okay with group travel and early mornings.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines Ninh Binh’s cultural sites with Halong Bay’s natural wonders.
• Value for Money: At $145, it includes transportation, meals, entrance fees, and activities.
• Professional Guides: Known for knowledgeable and personable guides like Viet.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Buffet lunches and local cuisine showcase Vietnamese culinary delights.
• Balanced Pace: A full schedule packed into two days, ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Mixed Group Size: Tours can have up to 99 participants, which can influence the intimacy of the experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hanoi to Ninh Binh’s Historic Heart

The journey begins early at 7:00 am, with a comfortable limousine bus transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The smooth start sets the tone for a well-organized trip. Once in Ninh Binh, the group heads straight to Hoa Lu, the ancient Vietnamese capital. Here, you’ll explore the Dinh and Le Dynasties temples, gaining insights into Vietnam’s early rulers.

What makes this stop especially engaging is the guided bicycle tour—an active way to connect with Vietnam’s past without feeling rushed. The architecture and heroic stories behind the temples resonate, especially with those interested in history and culture. One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guide Viet, noting his personable manner and clear explanations, which added depth to the visit.

Next, lunch is served at a local restaurant, offering a buffet of Vietnamese dishes. The quality and variety of the lunch are worth mentioning—it’s satisfying without feeling heavy, perfect for refueling before the next adventure.

The afternoon takes you to Trang An Landscape Complex, a true highlight. The boat tour through grottoes and limestone formations offers a tranquil yet awe-inspiring experience. With stalactites and stalagmites shaped like animals and objects, each grotto feels like nature’s artwork. Travelers describe it as “satisfying” and “beautiful,” making it clear why this site is a must-see.

The last stop of the day is Mua Cave, where a climb of around 500 steps leads to a panoramic view of Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside. The ascent can be taxing, but the visual reward justifies the effort. A reviewer called it “impressive,” and the view of rice paddies and limestone peaks stretching to the horizon is unforgettable.

Overnight, guests stay in a bungalow in Ninh Binh, providing a cozy retreat after a day filled with exploration. The accommodation is simple but effective, ideal for travelers looking to relax amid nature.

Day 2: From Halong Bay to Hanoi

The morning starts with an early transfer to Tuan Chau Island in Halong Bay, arriving around noon. The cruise experience begins with a buffet lunch onboard, offering a variety of dishes while you glide past limestone islands and floating villages. The cruise itself is a highlight, with opportunities to take in the stunning seascape and see the iconic Surprising Cave (Sung Sot), known for its stalagmites and stalactites resembling sea creatures.

The kayaking or bamboo boat ride in Luon Cave offers a more intimate encounter with Halong Bay’s serenity, allowing you to explore the lagoon at your own pace. Reviewers appreciated the kayaking, describing it as “discovery” and “refreshing,” perfect for adventure seekers.

Later, you’ll visit Titop Island, famous for its sandy beach and the climb up Titop Peak, which provides a paradisiacal view of the bay. The climb is manageable and the payoff worth every step, with many describing the vista as “breathtaking.” The beach time offers a chance to relax or swim, rounding off the day’s activities.

By 6:00–6:30 pm, the bus departs Halong Bay to return to Hanoi, arriving around 9:00–9:30 pm. The return journey features a quick break, giving travelers a moment to stretch and reflect.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

Transportation

Transportation is handled via modern shuttle buses both days, ensuring comfort during the long drive between Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Halong Bay. The buses are well-maintained, making the early starts and long hours more bearable.

Group Size and Guides

While the tour can host up to 99 travelers, reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides like Viet, who go out of their way to make the experience engaging. Tour guides provide context about Vietnam’s history, culture, and the sites visited, enriching your understanding.

Meals and Accommodation

Meals are included—buffet lunches with a variety of Vietnamese dishes, and dinner on the cruise (set menu, vegetarian options available). The bungalow accommodation in Ninh Binh offers a simple but comfortable stay, ideal for unwinding after a busy day.

Cost & Value

At $145 per person, the tour covers entrance fees, meals, transportation, and activities, making it quite reasonable considering the scope. The inclusion of kayaking, boat rides, and a luxury cruise adds significant value.

Considerations

The packed schedule means early mornings and limited free time. The group size could impact the intimacy of the experience, but reviews suggest guides like Viet make it feel personalized despite the number of travelers. Be aware of holiday surcharges during peak periods, which can add to the cost.

Authentic Experiences: What Travelers Say

One reviewer mentioned their guide Viet as “very knowledgeable and personable,” which goes a long way in enriching the experience. They also appreciated the timing of the day, which allowed them to soak up the sights without feeling overwhelmed.

Another reviewer highlighted the beauty of the scenery and the ease of taking photos, mentioning how they took many snapshots of the landscapes. They found the price reasonable and recommended the tour for anyone wanting a full yet manageable Northern Vietnam experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 2-day tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of northern Vietnam, blending history, nature, and adventure in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable. The professional guides, well-organized itinerary, and inclusive pricing make it a solid choice for travelers short on time but eager for a meaningful experience.

While the schedule is busy, it maximizes what you can see and do without sacrificing quality. The bungalow stay and luxury cruise add touches of comfort and indulgence, perfect for those wanting a taste of Vietnam’s scenic wonders.

If you love stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and a mix of relaxation and activity, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers who don’t mind packed days and large group travel in exchange for a cost-effective, varied, and authentic Vietnamese adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $145 fee covers transportation, meals (buffet lunches and dinner on the cruise), entrance fees to key sites, activities like kayaking and boat rides, and accommodation in a bungalow in Ninh Binh.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, including those in their late 60s, as noted in a review. Some parts, like climbing Mua Cave or Titop Peak, involve physical activity, so consider your comfort with stairs and walking.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay in a bungalow in Ninh Binh, offering a simple yet cozy retreat after a day of sightseeing.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the set menu dinner and buffet lunches include vegetarian options, accommodating different dietary needs.

How long are the boat rides and activities?
Boat tours at Trang An and Halong Bay activities like kayaking or bamboo boat rides typically last around 30 minutes to an hour, providing varied ways to experience the scenery.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, modern shuttle buses are used, making the long drives more comfortable and convenient.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks, tips, personal expenses, and optional activities are not included. Be aware of holiday surcharges during peak periods.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts; after that, refunds are not available. Weather cancellations are also covered with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

This tour offers an excellent balance of culture, scenic beauty, and adventure, making it a highly valuable experience for those wanting to explore northern Vietnam in a structured, hassle-free way.