Tam Coc, Dinh – Le temple

Full day

Tam Coc & Dinh Le Temple Tour is the perfect day trip from Hanoi, combining the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the historic Dinh and Le Temples, a scenic bamboo boat ride through Tam Coc, and authentic local cuisine. This tour offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

• Hoa Lu – used to be an ancient capital and the heart of Vietnam from 10th to 11th century under the Dinh and Le dynasties. Coming over here, you will be told about historic stories existing for thousand years.
• Dinh Le temples – These two temples in the shape of Chinese character were built in 17th century to worship the Kings of Dinh and Le Dynasty
• Tam Coc Wharf – meaning “three caves”. Take a sampan boat trip to Tam Coc including Ca cave, Hai cave and Ba cave. All three caves are formed on Ngo Dong River pierced through the mountains.

Ninh Binh Day Tour Itinerary

Begin your Tam Coc & Dinh Le Temple Tour with a comfortable transfer from Hanoi.

07:25 – 08:00 | Pick-up in Hanoi

First, our friendly tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or the Hanoi Opera House before departing for Ninh Binh Province. Please note that the exact pick-up time depends on your hotel location.

09:15 | Short Break

Next, enjoy a short break of 15–20 minutes to relax, stretch your legs, or purchase refreshments before continuing the journey.

10:15 | Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Upon arrival, visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010. Here, you’ll learn about Vietnamese history during the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties. Afterward, take a leisurely bicycle ride around the nearby village to discover the peaceful countryside and experience the daily life of local residents.

12:00 | Buffet Lunch

Then, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at the 5-star-style Ninh Binh Excursion Restaurant. The menu features a variety of local specialties, including goat meat, spring rolls, fish, chicken, fried rice, and fresh vegetable salad. In addition, vegetarian dishes are always available.

13:30 | Tam Coc Boat Trip

After lunch, continue to Tam Coc for a relaxing 1.5-hour bamboo boat ride. During the journey, admire breathtaking rice fields, winding rivers, dramatic limestone mountains, and impressive caves. You’ll understand why Tam Coc is often called the “Ha Long Bay on land.”

15:00 | Return to Hanoi

Afterward, board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi. Along the way, relax and enjoy the scenic countryside views one last time.

17:30 – 18:00 | Arrival in Hanoi

Finally, arrive back at your hotel in Hanoi. Your Ninh Binh day tour concludes with unforgettable memories of Vietnam’s spectacular natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

From $34 US

• Distance from Hanoi to Ninh Binh: 95–110 km (2–2.5 hours by car).
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.
• Be careful when getting on and off the boat.
• Children must be supervised by an adult.
• Respect local customs and historical sites.