Hanoi: 3-Day Ninh Binh to Bai Tu Long Bay Tour and Cruise

Planning a trip that combines cultural treasures, stunning landscapes, and relaxing sea views? This 3-day tour from Hanoi offers just that—visiting Ninh Binh’s remarkable temples and caves, then cruising through the serene waters of Bai Tu Long Bay aboard a luxury boat. For $284 per person, it packs in a lot—balancing sightseeing, culture, and leisure activities, all with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable accommodations.

What we love about this experience: First, the chance to stand amidst the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam at Bai Dinh and to climb up to the Mua Cave for panoramic views—these are the kinds of sights that stay with you. Second, the cruise itself offers a quiet, scenic escape with activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing, making it a truly immersive experience of nature.

A possible consideration? The journey involves some early mornings and about 2.5 hours of travel on the first day, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a completely relaxed pace. But if you’re eager to see a variety of sights in a short time, this tour is quite efficient.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sites, natural landscapes, and leisurely activities. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences and are comfortable with group travel and some physically active parts like climbing stairs or kayaking.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines cultural highlights with natural beauty, including temples, caves, and bay scenery.
• Balanced Activities: Mix of sightseeing, physical activities (kayaking, cave exploring), and cultural lessons (cooking, Tai Chi).
• Authentic Encounters: Stay in a homestay in Ninh Binh, providing a more personal and local flavor.
• Value for Money: All activities, meals, and accommodations included at a reasonable price.
• Early Starts and Travel Time: Expect some early mornings and about 2.5 hours of transfer on Day 1.
• Ideal for Active Tourists: Suitable for those comfortable with walking, climbing, and outdoor activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Experience

Day 1: From Hanoi to Ninh Binh – Cultural and Natural Highlights

Our journey begins bright and early at 8:00 AM, leaving the bustling streets of Hanoi behind. The 2.5-hour drive is a good chance to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead. Once in Ninh Binh, the tour’s focus is on Vietnam’s cultural and spiritual heart.

Highlights include the Bai Dinh Temple Complex, Vietnam’s largest, with its impressive Arhat statues and massive bronze bell. The guide told us that this site is a major religious hub, and it’s easy to see why. Walking through the sprawling complex, you’ll sense both history and devotion. We loved the electric car ride inside Bai Dinh—a smart way to see the vast grounds without tiring out.

Lunch is at a local restaurant, offering a Vietnamese buffet with options like goat meat, fish, chicken, and vegetarian dishes, all prepared fresh. It’s a satisfying break before heading to Trang An, a UNESCO-listed landscape film-shot that’s often called “Halong Bay on land.” We floated through mysterious caves and limestone karsts on a traditional boat, marveling at the peaceful scenery. The boat guides are friendly, and the scenery is quiet and inspiring.

Finally, we climbed 500 steps to Mua Cave—a bit of a workout but worth it. From the top, the panoramic views of the rocky hills and lush landscape make the climb worthwhile. In the evening, we stayed at a cozy homestay, which added authentic local charm and a chance to connect with hosts.

Day 2: From Ninh Binh to Bai Tu Long Bay for a Luxury Cruise

By 8:00 AM, we were back on the bus heading toward Ha Long City for the start of our cruise. The transfer is smooth, and the cruise itself begins around 1:00 PM with a warm welcome from the crew. First, we enjoyed a buffet lunch featuring local ingredients—delicious and plentiful.

The afternoon’s highlight was visiting the Vung Vieng Floating Fishing Village—a quiet spot where you can explore by kayak or bamboo boat. We found kayaking a serene way to experience the bay’s calm waters and see the traditional floating homes up close. The guide explained that this area feels almost untouched, a stark contrast to the busy tourist spots in Ha Long Bay.

Later, optional activities like relaxing in the sauna or enjoying a massage can help you unwind. As the sun set, we joined a sunset party on deck, snapping photos and soaking in the peaceful scene. That evening, the cooking class was a fun way to learn Vietnamese culinary secrets, and dinner featured a tasty mix of Western-Asian fusion dishes.

We also tried squid fishing late at night, which was a charming, if slightly addictive, activity. It’s a unique way to see how local fishermen work and adds a genuine touch to the trip.

Day 3: Bay Activities and Return to Hanoi

Early morning, we took part in a Tai Chi class on the deck. It’s a calming start, with tea and coffee in hand. Next, we explored Thien Canh Son Cave, an impressive limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites—about 200 steps up, but the effort is rewarded with stunning formations.

After the cave, it’s time to check out and enjoy a brunch on board before heading back to the pier. The boat arrives in Hanoi around 3:00 PM, completing a full, varied experience packed into just three days.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Travelers Can Expect

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxing activities. The transportation is comfortable, with air-conditioning and a small group size (roughly the same as the reviews mention), ensuring a personal experience. The homestay in Ninh Binh feels authentic, and the luxury cruise on Bai Tu Long Bay provides a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots.

Activities like kayaking, cave exploring, and fishing are included, making this a hands-on experience. The cooking class and Tai Chi add cultural depth, while the meals are plentiful and thoughtfully prepared.

The overall pace is lively but not rushed, with early mornings balanced by leisure time. The price of $284 provides good value considering the extensive itinerary, all meals, activities, and accommodations.

Authenticity and Comfort

Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and well-organized logistics, which can make or break a trip. One reviewer shared, “the communication with the tour organizer was exceptional,” which speaks to the level of service and care.

Keep in mind, peak season (October to April) may have an extra surcharge, and some activities, like squid fishing, depend on weather conditions. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to stairs and outdoor activities.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This will suit active travelers who enjoy cultural sights, outdoor activities, and scenic boat rides. It’s excellent for those who want a comprehensive taste of northern Vietnam without sacrificing comfort. If you’re looking for a small-group, authentic experience with a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This 3-day adventure from Hanoi offers a solid mix of cultural landmarks, scenic landscapes, and engaging activities at a fair price point. The homestay in Ninh Binh adds a personal touch, while the luxury cruise provides a peaceful escape into nature. Travelers who value authentic experiences, good organization, and a variety of activities will find this tour especially appealing.

While the early start and travel time may not suit everyone, the effort is rewarded with memorable sights and genuine local encounters. Whether you’re marveling at the Bai Dinh temples, enjoying the quiet waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, or joining a cooking class, this trip offers a well-rounded, immersive experience.

For anyone eager to explore Vietnam beyond Hanoi’s streets and want to see the country’s spiritual and natural beauty in just a few days, this tour presents excellent value and authentic moments worth cherishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome, though there is a surcharge of $100 for a single room. The group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, and many travelers find it easy to connect.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, as it’s needed for entrance fees and activities. Also, pack comfortable shoes for climbing stairs and walking, and sun protection for outdoor activities.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the tour provides vegetarian food options. Just be sure to advise the guide when booking if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I participate in kayaking and swimming?
Absolutely. Kayaking is included and encouraged in Bai Tu Long Bay, and swimming is available at designated spots. Remember to bring your swimwear and towel.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a homestay in Ninh Binh, which offers a more personal, local experience. The cruise features deluxe ocean-view cabins for a comfortable overnight stay.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, active children comfortable with outdoor activities and stairs should enjoy the trip. Check with the provider if you have concerns about age restrictions.

How flexible are the activities?
Most activities are included, but some, like massage or sauna, are optional. The tour schedule is fixed, but guides are generally accommodating if you need adjustments.

In short, this tour provides a well-balanced, authentic look at Vietnam’s natural and cultural treasures, making it a compelling choice for active, curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: