Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s most captivating destinations, offering a mix of stunning limestone karsts, peaceful river cruises, and ancient temples. Its accessible location just a few hours from Hanoi makes it an ideal spot for a 3-day getaway. We love how these tours combine luxury experiences on cruises with authentic local village visits and adventure activities like biking and kayaking. For instance, a sampan ride through Tam Coc’s limestone formations really captures the soul of the region, while exploring Hoa Lu’s ancient temples takes you back in time. Whether you’re after a luxurious escape or an active exploration, Ninh Binh’s varied tours promise memorable moments and authentic experiences.
Quick Overview
The best 3-day tours in Ninh Binh span a range of styles: from five-star cruises showcasing breathtaking bay scenery to cultural journeys with visits to pagodas and caves. Some tours combine Ninh Binh with nearby Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay for those wanting to see the iconic karsts from the water, while others focus on adventure activities like cycling and bamboo rafting. There are options with luxury cruises, homestay experiences, and even multi-region trips including Pu Luong and Sapa. Check out the full list below to find your perfect fit.
1. From Hanoi: 3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise – Ninh Binh Tour
At number 1, this tour combines the splendor of Halong Bay’s limestone formations with the cultural highlights of Ninh Binh. You’ll spend a night aboard a luxury 5-star cruise with private balconies and gourmet service, exploring caves, kayaking, and swimming in emerald waters. The tour then transitions to land, where you visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, and enjoy a sampan ride at Tam Coc. The mix of luxury comfort and authentic sights makes this tour a top pick for travelers who want quality and variety without sacrificing relaxation. With a 4.9-star rating from 18 reviews, it’s clear visitors love the seamless experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a high-end cruise experience combined with cultural exploration, all in three days.
2. 3-Day: Ha Long–Lan Ha Bay & Ninh Binh 5 Stars Cruise
At number 2, this tour is a full immersion into Vietnam’s spectacular bay scenery combined with the charm of Ninh Binh. It features a luxurious stay on a private balcony cruise in Lan Ha Bay, with opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and bamboo boat rides. The trip includes visits to Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Tien Cave, plus a chance to experience local life in Tam Coc village. The inclusion of both sea and river adventures makes this a versatile choice for active travelers who love the water. With a perfect 5-star rating from 8 reviews, it’s highly praised for its overall value and unforgettable experiences.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a mix of luxury sea cruising and cultural sights in just three days.
3. 3-Day – Ninh Binh – Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise & Balcony
Number 3 on our list features a well-rounded experience with luxury cruising in Lan Ha Bay and active exploration of Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, and Tam Coc by bamboo boat. Guests stay on a luxury cruise, with options for kayaking, swimming, and night fishing. The tour also includes cycling at Hoa Lu and a trekking visit to Mua Cave, offering both relaxation and adventure. The 5-star service, combined with the chance to see limestone caves up close, makes this a favorite among adventure seekers who appreciate comfort. Rated 5/5 from four reviews, it’s praised for its blend of activities and serene atmosphere.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking luxury accommodations with active exploration in a compact trip.
4. Hanoi: 3-Day Ninh Binh to Bai Tu Long Bay Tour and Cruise
Number 4 offers an immersive journey starting with Trang An, Bai Dinh, and Mua Cave, then moving onto a luxury boat cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay. The tour features kayaking, cave exploring, and fishing, along with a visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complex. Guests stay in a homestay before crossing into the bay for a luxury cruise experience. This tour balances cultural highlights with relaxing boat rides, making it perfect for travelers who enjoy both history and natural beauty. With a solid 4.5-star rating from four reviews, travelers highlight its authenticity and diverse activities.
Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting cultural depth plus a luxury cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay.
5. Pu Luong – Ninh Binh 3 Days 2 Nights
Number 5 is perfect for travelers craving wilderness, hiking, and rural charm. It combines a visit to Pu Luong Nature Reserve with Ninh Binh’s famous sights. Highlights include rice fields, mountain passes, and local village visits, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and relaxing in eco-resorts. The tour is praised for its balance of adventure and downtime, making it suitable for those who want authentic Vietnamese countryside experiences. One reviewer called it a “very little gem,” emphasizing its beautiful, clean eco-resort.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and exploring Vietnam’s scenic countryside at a relaxed pace.
6. From Hanoi: 3-Day Sapa, Fansipan, Ninh Binh Tour with Meals
Number 6 combines mountain scenery and ethnic culture. You’ll visit Sapa’s Cat Cat Village, reach the highest peak in Indochina at Fansipan, and explore Trang An. This tour offers a blend of trekking, boat rides, and cultural visits, with the thrill of conquering Fansipan via cable car. The guide’s 25 years of birding experience makes the cultural and natural insights especially rich. With a 3.8 rating from six reviews, it’s a good pick for adventure-minded travelers who don’t mind longer travel days.
Bottom line: Great for those interested in mountain scenery, ethnic minorities, and active pursuits.
$260 per person
7. From Hanoi: 3-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise with Ninh Binh Tour
Number 7 offers a classic cruise experience, with stops at Surprising Cave, Long Bay kayaking, and a visit to UNESCO-listed sites. It starts with a 2.5-hour bus ride from Hanoi, then features delicious seafood buffet meals onboard. The bamboo boat ride through caves and lagoons adds an authentic touch. The air-conditioned cabins and the scenic route make this ideal for travelers wanting a traditional Ha Long Bay experience without sacrificing comfort. The tours’ popularity is reflected in its reviews, which note its reliability and relaxing atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a classic, well-organized Ha Long Bay cruise combined with land excursions.
$243 per person
8. From Hanoi: 3D2N Lan Ha/Ha Long Cruise & Ninh Binh Stay
Number 8 gives you two nights of accommodation—one on a luxury cruise in Lan Ha or Ha Long Bay and one in a homestay in Ninh Binh. Visitors enjoy kayaking, swimming, and exploring attractions like Hoa Lu and Mua Cave. Meals are included, and you can choose your drop-off point, making it very flexible. The combination of water-based luxury and culture makes this tour stand out for travelers who want both adventure and local flavor.
Bottom line: Ideal if you’re looking for a multi-night experience with diverse activities and comfortable accommodations.
$226 per person
9. From Hanoi: Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh 3-Day Tour
Number 9 explores Mai Chau’s rice terraces and Pu Luong’s mountain landscapes. It’s a longer, more comprehensive trip suited for those wanting deep scenic immersion. Highlights include ancient temples, sampan rides, and ethnic minority villages. The tour balances adventure with cultural insights, with a good review noting the beautiful eco-resorts and tasty food.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a scenic, cultural exploration across multiple regions.
$475 per person
10. From Hanoi: Pu Luong 3-day classic tour, finish in Ninh Binh
Number 10 offers a serene countryside experience with bamboo rafting, water wheel visits, and local village walks. It’s ideal for relaxation and cultural engagement. The tour includes overnights in eco-resorts and visits to Lan villages, making it suitable for travelers wanting a peaceful escape. Its high rating of 4.9 reflects satisfaction with its authentic rural charm.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a calm, nature-focused trip blending culture and relaxation.
$271 per person
11. From Hanoi: Tour Sapa – Moana – Fansipan 3D2N exit Hanoi
Number 11 explores Sapa’s ethnic villages, Fansipan’s peak, and the Love Market. The modern cable car to Fansipan is a highlight, offering stunning views. The cultural insights into minority life and traditional crafts add depth. Rated 4.9, this tour suits those wanting mountain views combined with cultural experiences.
Bottom line: Recommended for culture and mountain lovers who enjoy active days and beautiful scenery.
$197 per person
12. From Ninh Binh: Pu Luong 3D2N Classic Tour, finish in Hanoi
Number 12 mirrors tour 10, offering a relaxing rural experience with bamboo rafting and visits to Lan villages. It’s a fantastic choice for slow-paced, scenic immersion in the countryside, with rated 4.9 for its authenticity and comfort.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a peaceful rural escape with cultural highlights.
$271 per person
13. Hanoi: 3-Day Lan Ha Bay, Ninh Binh Excursion, Small Group
Number 13 offers a small-group tour with visits to Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Mua Cave, combined with boat rides and kayaking. Staying on a boutique cruise and a homestay enhances its intimate feel. Rated without a specific score, it’s appealing for personalized experiences.
Bottom line: Great for those seeking a personalized, small-group adventure with authentic sights.
$221 per person
14. Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay – 3-Day Luxury Cruise
Number 14 provides a luxurious three-day journey through Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay with a 5-star cruise. The tour emphasizes comfort, scenic beauty, and activities like climbing Mua Cave and kayaking. Fantastic for travelers who want to indulge in luxury while exploring Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a high-end, all-inclusive experience blending nature and comfort.
$297 per person
15. Mama’s Homestay: Ha Giang Loop 3D2N
Number 15 stands out for its mountain adventure in the Ha Giang Loop, crossing Ma Pi Leng pass and visiting Lung Cu Flag Tower. It’s suited for adventure travelers eager to explore remote mountain scenery and local culture with support from a local guide.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a daring journey through northern Vietnam’s rugged mountains.
$177 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a 3-day tour in Ninh Binh, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you prefer luxury and relaxation, tours like the From Hanoi: 3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise or the Hanoi: 3-Day Ninh Binh to Bai Tu Long Bay Tour are excellent choices. For active explorers, the Sapa & Fansipan tour offers mountain treks and cable rides. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Mama’s Homestay Ha Giang Loop, which emphasizes culture at a lower price.
Booking early, especially for popular tours, guarantees availability during peak season (October to April). Think about whether you want water-based activities, cultural visits, or relaxing boat rides when making your choice. Each tour offers a different slice of what makes Ninh Binh and its surroundings special.
Final Thoughts
Ninh Binh offers an impressive range of 3-day tours that suit all kinds of travelers. Whether you prefer a luxury cruise like the from Hanoi: 3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise, or a cultural adventure with active pursuits, there’s something for all. For those on a tighter schedule or budget, options like the Mama’s Homestay Ha Giang Loop provide authentic experiences without sacrificing comfort. Remember to book early and pick the tour that best matches your style and interests — Vietnam’s landscapes won’t wait.