From Hanoi: Hoa Lu or Bai Dinh And Bich Dong And Thung Nham

This full-day adventure from Hanoi costs around $67 per person, lasts about 8 hours, and offers a chance to explore some of northern Vietnam’s most iconic sights. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll get a mix of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty, making it ideal for travelers wanting an authentic taste of the region’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

What we love most about this tour is how flexible the itinerary is—you can focus on Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest religious complex, or the historic ruins of Hoa Lu, the country’s first capital. Plus, cycling through lush rice fields en route to Bich Dong offers a peaceful, hands-on experience that connects you directly with local life.

One possible downside? The day’s pace can be a bit tight, especially if you’re a slow walker or want more time at each site. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of active exploration and culture, and who appreciate a well-organized itinerary that balances history with scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between Bai Dinh Pagoda or Hoa Lu, depending on your interests.
• Authentic experiences: Cycling through rice fields and visiting sacred temples gives a real sense of local life.
• Knowledgeable guides: Expect insightful commentary and smooth logistics.
• Breathtaking scenery: Majestic mountains, lush fields, and impressive architecture.
• Value for money: At $67, this tour combines transport, entry fees, and cultural encounters efficiently.
• Good for all: Suitable for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Ninh Binh Day Trip

Starting Point and Scenic Drive from Hanoi

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Hanoi—an easy way to start your day without the hassle of navigating traffic. As you leave the bustling city behind, the scenery shifts dramatically. We loved noticing how the urban hustle gives way to peaceful countryside, with endless green rice paddies, towering mountains, and rustic houses dotting the landscape. The driver and guide make the journey enjoyable, sharing tidbits about the region’s history and culture, which sets the tone for your day ahead.

Choosing Your Path: Bai Dinh or Hoa Lu

Once you arrive, you’ll be given two options based on your interests. Here’s what each offers:

Option 1: Bai Dinh Pagoda

This sprawling complex is Vietnam’s largest pagoda, perched at the foot of Dinh Mountain. It’s a testament to Vietnam’s Buddhist faith, with giant golden Buddha statues and intricate carvings. We loved how the pagoda’s location offers sweeping views of the river valley, which makes for some fantastic photo opportunities. While the complex is modern, it’s built on a site with over a thousand years of history, closely linked to Vietnam’s past kings.

Visiting this site gives you a sense of spiritual tranquility and a deeper understanding of Vietnamese Buddhism. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, as the grounds are extensive, but it’s worth it to see the impressive architecture and serene atmosphere.

Option 2: Hoa Lu — Vietnam’s First Capital

History buffs will appreciate exploring the ruins of Hoa Lu, the country’s original imperial capital dating back over a thousand years. Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, the site exudes an ancient majesty. You’ll discover temples dedicated to Dinh and Le Dynasties, with detailed carvings and preserved architecture that tell stories of Vietnam’s early statehood.

Traveling here feels like stepping back in time. Our guide explained how Hoa Lu played a crucial role in the formation of Vietnam, making it a meaningful stop for understanding the country’s roots. The weathered stone structures and scenic setting make this a photogenic site that feels less commercial and more authentic.

Exploring and Learning

Whether you pick Bai Dinh or Hoa Lu, your guide will enrich your visit with stories and context, making each stop more meaningful. Travelers have praised guides for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the overall experience. As one review said, “Our guide, Linh, was very knowledgeable and shared stories about the sites that made the history come alive.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Cycling to Bich Dong

After your cultural exploration, you’ll hop on a bicycle to visit Bich Dong, a famous ancient pagoda complex built into a mountain. The ride follows a winding road through rice fields and alongside majestic mountains, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city. The scent of rice, the sound of birds, and the lush scenery make this stretch memorable.

At Bich Dong, you’ll visit a sacred temple perched on a mountain ledge, accessible by a gentle hike. The temple’s architecture is charming, and the views from here reward your effort, giving you a sense of connection with Vietnam’s spiritual side.

Bird Valley and Thung Nham’s Natural Wonders

The final stop takes you to Bird Valley in Thung Nham, a haven for bird lovers. Here, you’ll see thousands of bird species, and you can explore Hang Tien, known for its striking stalactite formations. The variety of avian life and natural formations provides a soothing end to your day.

Many travelers appreciated this part of the trip, with one commenting, “Watching the birds and admiring the strange shapes in the caves was a peaceful way to finish the day.” It’s a quiet, contemplative experience that balances the more active parts of your itinerary.

Returning to Hanoi

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will bring you back to your hotel in Hanoi, generally around dinner time. The return trip is a good chance to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen.

Pricing and Value

At $67 per person, this tour offers an impressive amount of value. It includes transportation, guide services, entry fees, and cycling gear, which means you won’t have to worry about additional costs. Compared to other tours in the area, it strikes a good balance between cost and experience, especially given the variety of sites visited.

It’s worth noting that some travelers found the day a bit packed, especially if you prefer lingering at fewer sites. However, if you enjoy a structured itinerary that hits all the highlights, you’ll find this tour to be well-organized and efficient.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those interested in Vietnamese history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who like active days—cycling, walking, and exploring. It also appeals to those who want a comprehensive snapshot of northern Vietnam, from ancient temples and ruins to scenic mountain landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Hanoi offers a thoughtful blend of cultural exploration, spiritual sites, and stunning scenery. With flexible options between Bai Dinh and Hoa Lu, you can tailor the experience to your interests. The inclusion of cycling and natural attractions like Thung Nham adds a memorable, hands-on touch that makes the day more engaging.

While it’s a busy schedule, the knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and authentic sites make it worthwhile. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply want to see more of northern Vietnam’s countryside, this tour provides a well-rounded, value-packed day.

If you’re after a balance of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, and enjoy organized, guided trips, this experience will meet your expectations and perhaps even surprise you.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Hanoi hotel and transportation throughout the day, making logistics hassle-free.

Can I choose between Bai Dinh and Hoa Lu?
Yes, the itinerary offers two options—visiting the Bai Dinh Pagoda or exploring the ruins of Hoa Lu—based on your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel, site visits, and cycling.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Absolutely. The tour offers guides in languages including English, Chinese, French, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, Korean, Russian, and German.

Is cycling difficult?
The cycling is on winding roads through scenic rice fields. It’s suitable for most travelers in decent shape, but if you prefer, you can opt out or take a break.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a water bottle, and a camera will help you enjoy the day fully. Some sites involve walking uphill or along uneven paths.

This tour is a well-rounded way to see some of Vietnam’s most important cultural and natural sights, especially if you’re short on time but want a full, immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: