Suggested Itinerary to Explore Ninh Binh in 3 Days and 2 Nights
Ninh Binh doesn’t just impress visitors with its majestic mountain landscapes — it also captivates with sacred temples, tranquil rivers, and simple, heartwarming experiences found nowhere else. If you only have 3 days and 2 nights, the following itinerary will help you fully appreciate the beauty, culture, and spirituality of this unique destination.
Day 1: Hanoi – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Mua Cave
Your journey begins early in the morning. After about two hours driving from Hanoi, you will arrive at Bai Dinh Pagoda — one of the largest spiritual complexes in Vietnam. The path leading to the pagoda is shaded by lush greenery, lined with rows of imposing Arhat statues. The sound of temple bells echoing across the vast landscape brings a rare sense of peace. Many visitors choose to spend the whole morning here, not just to explore but to pray for peace and blessings for their families — a serene way to begin the trip.
After lunch, check in to your hotel and rest briefly before continuing to Mua Cave. Known as the "Great Wall of Vietnam," Mua Cave challenges your legs with nearly 500 stone steps. But the reward is breathtaking — from the summit, an entire panorama of rivers, mountains, and rice fields stretches out before your eyes. At sunset, golden light bathes the landscape, making it the perfect time for capturing the most stunning photos of your trip.
In the evening, after enjoying a dinner of local specialties, take a leisurely stroll through Ninh Binh’s streets, indulge in some street food, or simply sip tea and soak in the laid-back pace of life in this small, peaceful town.
Day 2: Phat Diem Cathedral – Trang An – Tam Chuc Pagoda
The second day begins with a visit to Phat Diem Cathedral, a nearly 130-year-old structure renowned for its unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture. Traditional Vietnamese curved roofs merge harmoniously with Gothic features, creating a visual surprise for every visitor.
Next, you’ll head to Trang An — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you drift along the Sao Khe River by boat, you’ll glide through mystical caves such as Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and Wine Brewing Cave — each holding its own charm and legend. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a watercolor-like scene. It's the perfect moment to forget life’s worries and let yourself be lulled by the gentle splash of oars and whispering wind.
In the afternoon, the group travels to Tam Chuc Pagoda — currently the largest pagoda in the world. A spiritual adventure awaits as you pass through the grand Tam Quan Gate, visit the Tam The and Phap Chu Halls, and climb 299 stone steps to reach Ngoc Pagoda atop That Tinh Mountain. From above, the Tam Chuc Lake spreads out before you like a poetic painting, breathtaking in its harmony of nature and architecture.
Upon returning to Phu Ly City in the evening, consider enjoying coffee at a local café or dining at a cozy eatery to embrace the warm simplicity of local life.
Day 3: Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda – Hanoi
On your final morning, after a light breakfast, visit the serene Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the pagoda’s traditional Vietnamese architecture exudes a humble yet solemn beauty. The atmosphere is so tranquil that stepping through its gate feels like entering a realm of pure peace. Many visitors describe the moment of sitting beneath ancient trees in the courtyard, breathing in fresh air and listening to the soft chime of temple bells, as one of the most unforgettable moments of their trip.
After the visit, enjoy lunch before returning to Hanoi. In just three short days, you will have experienced a full range of emotions: awe at nature’s grandeur, inner peace in spiritual spaces, and the lasting flavors of local cuisine.
Where to Stay: Tien Loc Palace – “As Peaceful As Home” in the Heart of Phu Ly
A trip only feels truly complete when you find the perfect place to rest. After a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than returning to your service apartment at Tien Loc Palace. The spacious and fully-equipped accommodations include a private living room, kitchen, and cozy bedroom — all designed to make you feel perfectly at home.
What makes Tien Loc Palace even more special is its team of dedicated staff. They are always ready to recommend the best local restaurants, hidden check-in spots, or optimized travel routes to save you time while enhancing your experience. With their support, you’re not just relaxing — you’re diving deeper into the local culture and people.
Three days and two nights in Ninh Binh may be brief, but they are enough to feel the power of nature, the sacredness of the land, and the warmth of every stop along the way. Let Tien Loc Palace accompany you — so that each journey is not just about discovery, but also a path to finding peace within yourself.
