Don't Visit Ninh Binh Without Knowing These Key Tips – Or You'll Regret
As a top travel destination in North Vietnam, Ninh Binh attracts many tourists. It’s a safe and ideal place for families, couples, groups of friends, and even solo travellers. However, if you plan to visit Ninh Binh for your upcoming trip, we advise you to pay attention to some important points below; otherwise, you might face difficulties and embarrassing situations. Besides, being well-prepared before visiting Ninh Binh makes your trip more enjoyable. Read our must-know tips BEFORE you go.
Check The Weather in Ninh Binh.
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from February to May or September to November. However, not everyone can go to Ninh Binh at this time. Ninh Binh is a year-round destination to visit. In some periods, you might face unfavourable weather conditions.
For example, during the summer months from June to August, you can expect higher temperatures and the occasional rainstorm, which might affect boat rides through Tam Coc or Trang An. Winter, from December to January with cold weather, and some foggy days impacts the view of Ninh Binh.
If you visit during the rainy season, be prepared for some interruptions in travel plans, especially on the boat tours. Packing a light raincoat and waterproof shoes can save the day.
You can check the Ninh Binh Weather condition: Ninh Binh Weather
Or read more:
Ninh Binh weather guide: climate and activities by month
Rainy Day Activities in Ninh Binh: What to do in Ninh Binh when it rains?
Essential Transportation Tips in Ninh Binh
How to get around Ninh Binh
The best ways to travel around Ninh Binh are by motorbike, bicycle, or boat tours. Some tourists might prefer taxis and try to book a grab bike or grab a car via a mobile app. However, keep in mind that Ninh Binh is a rural area. It’s less convenient than other big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
While public transportation in Ninh Binh is available, it might not be as frequent or convenient as you might expect. Moreover, it can be challenging if you don't speak Vietnamese. Again, consider renting a bike, scooter, or car for more flexibility and convenience.
Read more:
Motorbike or Bike? The best way to explore the Rural Beauty of Ninh Binh
What To Avoid in Ninh Binh
Be Careful With The Scam in Ninh Binh!
In general, Ninh Binh is a safe place and people are friendly. On the other hand, it's important to be conscious of typical scams in some tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. Here are some of the most regular scams you might consider:
You might face a scam if you take an unofficial taxi without bargaining about the price beforehand. If you take a group tour of a travel agency, don't worry because they already provide the transport. If you plan a self-organised trip, ask your homestay or hotels to book transport for you. Some homestays/hotels in Tam Coc, Mua Cave area provide transport options at a reasonable rate.
In case of you see a local man who is trying to guide you somewhere and promises will provide the best rate for you, don’t follow them. They just want to take your money without any guarantee about the service.
Another key tip for Ninh Binh visitors is the scams of boat riders. In Trang An, at the end of your boat trip, the boat rider has to give you a feedback letter to ask for your review. With your good review, they will receive their salary. This feedback letter is the government's effort to prevent tourists from bad boat rides. However, some of them with change their attitude after receiving your good feedback and ask you for tips. Please remember that tipping is not compulsory. If you feel happy with the service, you can give them as an appreciation. If not, you have the right to refuse.
Not only Trang An boat tour, but you can also see it on other routes like Tam Coc, Thung Nham… In addition, In Tam Coc, you can see many vendors, selling snacks, water or souvenirs on the boat. Ask the price before you receive them.
Some local photographers take your photo and print it out. They want to sell it for you. If you like the picture, you can bargain and purchase or say no and go straight away from them to avoid annoyance.
Besides, be wary of children who may approach you for money. You may feel sympathy for them, but you should not give them money because doing so encourages children to continue skipping school to beg from tourists. The money they earn does not belong to the children but to the people managing them. It's often best to decline and report the situation to local authorities.
It's available to keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Pay Attention to Ninh Binh Local Food
Ninh Binh is famous for its local cuisine. Not only does serve signature foods of rural Vietnam, Ninh Binh also has special foods such as goat meat, scorched rice topped with pork floss, mountain snails,... You can enjoy these foods. It’s worth trying.
For travellers with dietary restrictions need to pay attention to the food first. Vietnamese foods usually contain multiple ingredients in each dish. I can’t recognize which ingredients are included in the food. You should inform them in advance. If you don't speak Vietnamese, consider using a translation app to communicate your dietary needs effectively or you can show pictures of specific ingredients or dishes that you can and cannot eat. If you have allergies, be sure to ask if the dish contains any allergens, such as nuts, seafood, or gluten. You can also request a set for vegetarians.
Brings some medicines for common diseases. It’s hard to buy exactly the medicine you want in Vietnam drug stores. The changes in the eating habits during the tour can cause digestive problems as well. Common medicine helps you prevent bad symptoms. No need to go to the hospital if your problems aren’t too complicated.
Avoid Pack Unnecessary Things
Ninh Binh is located near Hanoi and Halobay Bay. You can take a day tour or 2-3 days tour in Ninh Binh. Therefore, packing is just an important thing because you will join in many outdoor activities. Avoid overpacking or underpacking.
Read more: 20 Must-have items for Ninh Binh tour
Not Bringing Enough Cash to Ninh Binh
While some places in Ninh Binh accept credit cards, many local shops, restaurants, and small vendors prefer cash. ATMs can be scarce in more rural areas, so it’s a good idea to bring enough Vietnamese Dong for your daily expenses, especially for entry fees, boat rides, toilet fees and local eateries. USD 1, USD 2, USD 5, USD 10 & USD 20 are more convenient or ask your guide to change to Vietnam dong.
Avoid Dress Disrespectful at Temples and Pagodas.
Ninh Binh is home to numerous temples and pagodas. What should you wear when visiting these sacred sites? You shouldn't wear revealing clothes, such as shorts, sleeveless tops, or anything that exposes too much skin. Instead, opt for modest clothing, such as long pants, skirts, or shirts that cover your shoulders.
Read more: Dresscode in Ninh Binh? What should I wear in Ninh Binh
Key Attractions in Ninh Binh You Shouldn’t Miss
- Tam Coc: Known for its serene boat rides through rice fields and limestone caves.
- Trang An: A UNESCO site offering stunning river views and ancient cave temples.
- Mua Cave: Hike to the top for panoramic views of Tam Coc and the surrounding landscapes.
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Explore the remains of Vietnam’s ancient royal capital.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam, featuring a massive bronze Buddha.
Overall, Ninh Binh is an ideal place for all people, from kids to elderly, from low to luxury budget. Don’t worry when travel to Ninh Binh. Scams still exist but are rarely encountered. With the above Ninh Binh insider tips, Aloha Vietnam Travel hopes to help you make the most of your trip. If you don't have time for a self-organized tour or prefer a safety option, check out our offer below. We have all Ninh Binh Tours you need: LIST OF NINH BINH TOUR
Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi
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Plan for a tour in Ninh Binh, Vietnam: Get Ready With 19 Frequently Asked Questions
