Here’s a well-rounded itinerary for a 1-day trip to Trang An and Hoa Lu, located in Ninh Binh province, about 2-3 hours from Hanoi. The schedule allows time to appreciate both the natural beauty and the historical significance of the area.

1-Day Itinerary: Trang An & Hoa Lu

7:30 AM – Depart from Hanoi

• Pick up at your hotel or meeting point in Hanoi. It’s a 2-3 hour drive to Ninh Binh, so enjoy the scenic countryside views along the way.

10:00 AM – Arrive at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

• Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Visit the ancient temples dedicated to the emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, who played significant roles in the country’s early history.

• Spend around 45 minutes to 1 hour exploring the temples and learning about the fascinating history of the site.

11:00 AM – Explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

• After leaving Hoa Lu, head to the nearby Trang An landscape complex. Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its limestone karsts, caves, and rivers.

• Board a traditional sampan boat and enjoy a 2-3 hour boat ride through the winding rivers, limestone caves, and tranquil landscapes.

• Highlights of the boat ride include passing through caves like Toi Cave, Sang Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave, as well as stopping by some pagodas nestled in the mountains.

1:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant

• After the boat ride, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a nearby local restaurant. Typical dishes include Ninh Binh’s famous goat meat, crispy rice (com chay), and other regional specialties.

• Duration: About 1 hour.

2:30 PM – Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda (Optional)

• If time allows, visit the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam, located about 30 minutes from Trang An. It houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Southeast Asia and offers beautiful views over the region.

• Spend around 1-1.5 hours exploring the pagoda complex.

4:00 PM – Return to Hanoi

• Begin your journey back to Hanoi, taking in the peaceful countryside.

6:30 PM – Arrive in Hanoi

• You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the starting point, ending your day trip.

Key Points to Keep in Mind:

• Boat ride in Trang An can be long, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and water.

• Dress modestly for the temples and pagoda visits.

• If you prefer more nature-focused activities, you can skip Bai Dinh Pagoda and spend extra time in Trang An.

All rates are US Dollar per person. 

Included: Full transfers by A/C tourist car, boat trip, entrance fee, lunch, English speaking guide. 

Excluded: Accommodation, Visa arrangement, drinks, travel insurance, personal expenses.

Children rates: 

·         Free of charge for children under 4 years sharing bed with parents.

·         Surcharge 50% rate of adult for children (5-11 years) sharing bed with parents.

·         Over 11 years is adult’s rate.

* The itinerary can be changed due to weather, tide levels and operating conditions. 
* Special request (diet or vegetarian, …) should be sent before your departure date.

Note:

·         16-seater bus used for 12-14 passengers

·         24-seater bus used for a maximum of 18 passengers

·         29-seater bus used for 18-20 passengers