Ninh Binh is known for its stunning landscapes, but it’s also a great base for city tours that reveal the local charm, culture, and history. While many travelers focus on the natural scenery, exploring nearby cities like Hanoi or Da Nang offers a different perspective—urban sights, historic landmarks, and lively neighborhoods. We especially enjoy tours that combine cultural highlights with unique routes, such as a full-day scenic drive along Vietnam’s coast or a cycling adventure through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. These experiences are perfect for seeing the local pulse and getting in-depth insights into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
In this guide, we will highlight the best city tours in Ninh Binh and nearby Hanoi, comparing options that focus on scenic drives, cultural landmarks, and lively street life. Whether you prefer a relaxing day of sightseeing or an active exploration on two wheels, these tours offer something for every type of traveler.
1. Da Nang City Sightseeing All Highlights Full Day Tour
For those who love combining natural beauty with cultural discovery, the Da Nang City Sightseeing All Highlights Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive look at Central Vietnam’s highlights. This tour includes visits to the Marble Mountains, where you can explore ancient caves and pagodas carved into limestone, and the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the impressive Lady Buddha statue overlooking the ocean. You’ll also drive along the famous Hai Van Pass, known for its dramatic mountain scenery and panoramic views—an experience that’s as scenic as it sounds.
One of the tour’s standout features is the train ride along Vietnam’s coastline, which provides a relaxing and scenic way to see the landscape. Plus, you’ll visit the historic Hải Vân Gate, a symbol of the region’s history as a gateway between North and South Vietnam. Tour guides tend to be well-informed, sharing stories about the area’s cultural and natural significance. The tour’s price of $105 per person reflects its extensive itinerary and the variety of sights covered in one day.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a full day of diverse experiences—mountains, coastlines, historic sites, and scenic train rides—ideal for travelers who like their sightseeing immersive and varied.
$105 per person
2. Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing Cycling Tour By Bike
If you prefer to explore a city actively, the Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing Cycling Tour is a fantastic way to see the city’s most iconic sights with a local student guide. For just $65 per person, you’ll pedal through narrow streets, past bustling markets, and along historic landmarks that tell Hanoi’s story.
The tour includes visits to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can learn about Vietnam’s beloved leader, and the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique symbol of Hanoi’s spiritual life. You’ll also stop at Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake, the city’s oldest temple, and experience the thrill of Train Street, where trains pass just inches from the houses—an unforgettable sight. The guided bike ride offers an intimate look at local life, away from the busier tourist spots, and is especially suitable for active travelers who want to see more than just the surface.
Reviews indicate that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the ride both fun and informative. The tour’s combination of cultural highlights and lively street scenes makes it a standout for those who enjoy a bit of exercise with their sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers wanting an authentic, up-close experience of Hanoi’s neighborhoods, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops and local stories.
$65 per person
3. Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing With Water Puppet Show
For a relaxed yet culturally rich experience, the Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing With Water Puppet Show offers a flexible, private tour of Hanoi’s most famous sights, ending with a traditional water puppet performance. Starting with a stroll through the lively Old Quarter, you’ll see the vibrant street life, historic Long Bien Bridge, and the Hanoi Opera House.
The tour includes visits to Tran Quoc Pagoda and the Hoa Lo Prison, offering insights into Vietnam’s complex history. You’ll also explore St. Joseph’s Cathedral and the colorful markets, absorbing the city’s unique blend of old and new. After a day of sightseeing, you’ll be treated to a water puppet show, a distinctive Vietnamese art form that combines music, storytelling, and intricate puppetry—a delightful way to end your day.
This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace and want a guided experience that covers the key sites with cultural flair. The flexibility of the itinerary means you can tailor it to your interests or add extra stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a comprehensive, culturally immersive Hanoi experience combined with a traditional performance, ideal for families or first-time visitors.
$65 per person
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Ninh Binh and Hanoi
When selecting your city tour, consider your budget, interests, and activity level. If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic drives and historical sites, the Da Nang full-day tour offers great value. For a more active, street-level exploration, the cycling tour immerses you in Hanoi’s neighborhoods. Those who prefer a relaxed pace with cultural highlights and shows should opt for the Water Puppet experience.
Timing can also influence your choice—early mornings are best for avoiding crowds at major sites, while late afternoons may be perfect for enjoying the city’s atmosphere. Booking in advance is recommended during peak travel seasons, especially for popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Ninh Binh surrounding areas and Hanoi offer a variety of city tours that cater to different tastes. For a scenic coastal adventure with historical insights, the full-day Da Nang tour is an excellent choice. Active explorers will appreciate the bike tour, while culture seekers should consider the Water Puppet Show combined with a leisurely city walk.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early is smart, especially during busy seasons. These experiences promise to deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s cities beyond just the scenery, giving you authentic moments to remember.