Dive into the essence of the Vietnamese countryside in Ninh Binh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the north of the country. Once known as Hoa Lu, the capital of an ancient dynasty, Ninh Binh offers a journey back in time with its breathtaking natural landscapes. Majestic limestone cliffs dot verdant rice fields, creating a breathtaking backdrop for an authentic experience.
Nature enthusiasts and adventurers will be delighted by the countless activities on offer in Ninh Binh. Hike through the surrounding hills, explore mystical caves, or cycle along country roads to discover the hidden charms of this captivating area. Is there any useful information about Ninh Binh ? Please refer to the following article.
Useful infos in Ninh Binh
When to go to travel Ninh Binh ? Exploring the climate of Ninh Binh, the terrestrial Halong Bay
Ninh Binh, known as the terrestrial Halong Bay, enjoys a moderate and humid subtropical climate. More specifically, according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, it has a humid subtropical climate with dry winters and hot summers (Cwa).
Ninh Binh has seasonal weather conditions as follows:
- Winter (January-March): Less favorable conditions, with average maximum temperatures of 26°C in March and monthly precipitation of about 30 mm.
- Spring (April-May): Acceptable conditions, with average maximum temperatures of 34°C in May and precipitation accounting for about 24% of the time in May.
- Summer (June-August): Less favorable conditions, with average early evening temperatures of 30°C and monthly precipitation of about 204 mm.
- Autumn (September-November): Very acceptable conditions, with average morning temperatures of 22°C and precipitation accounting for about 8% of the time in November.
- December: Less favorable conditions, with average midday temperatures of 22°C and monthly precipitation of 24 mm.
How to get to Ninh Binh? Practical and efficient means of transportation to discover Ninh Binh
Traveling to Ninh Binh by train
For a convenient and economical trip, choose the train from Hanoi (or from Hue, Da Nang, Saigon) to Ninh Binh. The train station is often located in the city center (for example, Hanoi station is on Le Duan street), just 2 km from the heart of the city (Hoan Kiem Lake). Trains run regularly for a journey of about 2 hours. Affordable tickets range from $4 to $9 (90,000 to 220,000 VND). You can book them online or at the counter. Upon your arrival in Ninh Binh, take a taxi to reach Van Long Lagoon - inland Ha Long Bay, Trang An, Hoa Lu, or Tam Coc according to your itinerary.
Bus journey to Ninh Binh
To save on your trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, an alternative option is available to you! You can go to Giap Bat, My Dinh or Nuoc Ngam bus stations outside the city center. Buses depart every 30 minutes, with fares ranging from 80,000 to 250,000 VND ($4 to $11). The journey takes about 2 hours.
Taking a taxi to Ninh Binh
It's a comfortable transportation option for higher budgets. For those with a more substantial budget, taking a taxi to Ninh Binh offers additional comfort. The journey costs around $50, but it provides a peaceful and pleasant trip between Hanoi and Ninh Binh.
To avoid scams, it is highly recommended to use only the following reputable taxi companies: Mai Linh Taxi, Hanoi Taxi, Hoan Kiem Taxi, CP Taxi, Huong Lua Taxi.
Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh in an elegant minibus (Limousine)
Discover the most enjoyable, comfortable, and economical travel experience for your Hanoi-Ninh Binh journey! Autour Asia offers our valued travelers ‘limousines,’ private minibuses with optimal comfort and impeccable safety. We select recent models that meet the strictest safety standards to ensure your peace of mind throughout the trip.
Are you looking for a special travel experience tailored to your group, regardless of group size ?
You can take a spacious limousine that can accommodate from 7 to 16 people or more. They are the ideal option for transporting your family, loved ones, or friends. With ample space for luggage, you can travel with peace of mind.
During your trip, enjoy the unparalleled comfort of plush leather seats and access to refreshments. Make stops at your convenience, as our attentive drivers are ready to meet your every desire.
Accompanied by our expert guide and professional driver, you will enjoy a personalized, welcoming, and unforgettable travel experience.
How to get around in Ninh Binh? Transportation options in Ninh Binh
By bicycle : Ninh Binh is full of breathtaking landscapes that are wonderfully discovered by bicycle. This mode of transport offers you a total immersion in the beauty of this region, where emerald rice fields, limestone karsts mountains, and winding rivers harmonize. Most hotels and accommodations offer bicycles for rent.
By motorbike : For thrill-seekers, the motorbike is the ideal option. Its speed and agility make it easy to navigate the streets easily.
By taxi : The taxi is a practical and safe choice, particularly suitable for group travel or with children or elderly people. Among the reputable taxi companies in Ninh Binh are Ninh Binh, Mai Linh, Minh Long, and Xuan Thanh.
Best thing to do in Ninh Binh: Exploring Ninh Binh by boat trip
By boat : Embark on a boat trip on the peaceful waters of the Ninh Binh river for an unforgettable experience. Discover the stunning landscapes of Tam Coc, Trang An, and Van Long, characterized by :
- Forming majestic limestone mountains covered with lush vegetation
- Lush green rice fields stretch as far as the eye can see
- A diverse fauna, with birds and fish in their natural habitat
One of the unique aspects of this boat trip is its mode of propulsion: the rowers use their feet to propel the boat through the narrow and picturesque passages of the caves, demonstrating their incredible agility and endurance.
Electrical outlets in accommodations in Ninh Binh, Vietnam
During your stay in Ninh Binh, you will notice three main types of electrical outlets: A, C, and G.
Type A outlets:
- Two adjacent flat slots
- Similar to French outlets, but flat instead of round
Type C outlets :
- Two round pins
- Identical to common French outlets
Type G outlets :
- Less common and rarely used by tourists
- Three rectangular pins arranged in a triangle
To ensure optimal compatibility, it is recommended to bring a universal adapter or to check the compatibility of your devices with the different types of outlets available in Ninh Binh.
Public holidays in Ninh Binh
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival takes place annually
- Period : From the 15th day of the 2nd lunar month to the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month
- Location : Historical site of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province
Annual Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival
- Period : Starts on 6/1 and continues until the end of the 3rd lunar month
- Location : Bai Dinh Temple, Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
Thai Vi Temple Festival
- Period : 14th-17th day of the third lunar month
- Location: Van Lam hamlet, Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh
Why should you travel to Ninh Binh ? Historical, cultural, and natural value of Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh, home of the ancient Vietnamese dynasties (Dinh, Le, Ly), has many places of historical and cultural significance. These relics are testament to important events in Vietnamese history.
Its rich history and traditions are reflected in its tangible and intangible heritages, which blend harmoniously with the picturesque natural landscape of mountains, rivers, lakes, and enchanted caves.
Ninh Binh takes advantage of its exceptional cultural heritage to develop heritage-focused culture and tourism. Additionally, it aims to promote eco-friendly, welcoming, and safe tourism, attracting both national and international visitors.
What to eat in Ninh Binh? Ninh Binh specialties
Ninh Binh is famous for its specialty goat meat, a typical dish of the region that cannot be missed. Goats raised freely in the mountains provide meat of exceptional quality. Characterized by its firm texture and unique flavor, this lean meat requires careful preparation to delight the taste buds. A variety of nutritious and delicious recipes are offered, including steaming, frying or fermenting.
Also, discover the must-try culinary specialties of Ninh Binh :
- Cơm cháy (Burned rice)
- Nem chua (Fermented pork from Yen Mac)
- Bún mọc Kim Sơn (Rice noodle with “moc” soup)
- Ốc núi (Ninh Binh Mountain Snail)
- Xôi trứng kiến (Nho Quan Sticky Rice with Ants Eggs)
- Cá chuối nướng (Grilled "Chuoi" fish from Van Long)
Currency and payment in Ninh Binh ? Currency exchange tips for your trip to Ninh Binh
In Ninh Binh, the estimated exchange rate in March 2024 is approximately 1 USD for about 25,000 VND and 1 EUR for about 27,500 VND.
You can easily convert your money into dongs upon arrival at the following locations:
- Your accommodation (hotel or guesthouse)
- Banks
- Currency exchange offices
- Jewelry stores
If you wish to use foreign cash, US dollars are widely accepted for daily purchases. However, euros are generally not used in everyday life. Only a few hotels may accept them.
Accepted payment methods in Ninh Binh
- Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are generally accepted in hotels.
- Tourist centers do not commonly accept credit cards.
- Traveler’s checks can only be exchanged at major banks.
Banknotes in circulation
- Lower denomination notes (500 d, 1000 d, 2000 d, 5000 d) are less common.
- The main banknotes used are: 10,000 d, 20,000 d, 50,000 d, 100,000 d, 200,000 d, 500,000 d.
To avoid fluctuations in exchange rates, it is recommended to change your money as needed during your stay.
How much to tip in Ninh Binh ?
Tour guides : Tips are expected, with a range of 50,000 to 100,000 VND per person per day. For drivers or assistant guides, plan for between 25,000 and 50,000 VND per person per day.
Hotel staff : Tips are appreciated for exceptional service. Consider 10,000 to 20,000 VND for porters, housekeepers, and concierge services that provide special efforts.
Sampan rowers : The rower does not seem concerned by the weather conditions and is always ready to take tourists for a ride. He gladly accepts gifts in appreciation for his services. However, it is customary to give a tip of 100,000 dongs (less than 5 US dollars) for two hours of rowing or more.
Note :
- Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam, especially in areas less frequented by tourists.
- However, for exceptional service, a small tip is a thoughtful way to express your gratitude.
Shopping in Ninh Binh
Although the shopping options in Ninh Binh might seem modest, the shopping experience is captivating. Beyond the limited shops, you will discover larger shopping centers offering a full range of products.
The lively market in Ninh Binh is a spectacle not to be missed. Observe the ballet of locals going about their daily activities and take the opportunity to acquire your favorite local products.
Among the iconic souvenirs available in Ninh Binh, we can mention:
- Traditional handicrafts
- Goat's horn products
- Traditional paintings
- Traditional clothing
- Dried lotus seeds
Conclusion on useful information for traveling to Ninh Binh
We have provided you with practical information so you can fully anticipate your vacation in Ninh Binh. This information covers weather conditions, climate, means of transport, local customs, as well as travel tips and tricks. If you have any other questions about your trip to Ninh Binh, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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