TripAdvisor, the leading travel guide platform, has just announced that Ninh Binh in Vietnam has been voted into the Top 10 Most Exciting Experiences of 2024 by travelers.

Best of the Best Things to Do

The award category, "2024 Travelers' Choice Awards - Best of the Best Things to Do," is determined based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings submitted on TripAdvisor, over a 12-month period (from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024).

With 3,630 traveler reviews, Ninh Binh has been ranked 9th in TripAdvisor's Top 25 Most Exciting Experiences in the World. This is also the only Vietnamese destination featured in the list.

TripAdvisor praised the standout day tour to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, stating: “Swap the hustle of Hanoi for a day filled with natural beauty, education, and adventure on a Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour.” They suggests that travelers should immerse in activities such as hiking, cycling through picturesque rural landscapes, and photographing scenic spots.

The "Best of the Best Things to Do" category is the latest addition to TripAdvisor's annual Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best. Other categories announced this year include the Top 25 Beaches in the World and the Top 25 Destinations in the World. The awards are based on high ratings from millions of readers, travelers, and experts worldwide. Out of 8 million entries over 12 months, only 1% of destinations make it onto the list.

Other Reputable Awards

With its pristine natural beauty, unique charm, and continuous efforts to create distinctive and attractive travel destinations, along with high-quality tourism services and a friendly, hospitable environment, Ninh Binh has consistently ranked highly in the rankings of many reputable international travel websites in recent years.

In 2020, Trips to Discover (USA) listed Ninh Binh among the 14 most attractive destinations in Asia. In 2022, Travel + Leisure magazine (USA) included Ninh Binh in its list of the 12 most beautiful filming locations in Asia.

In 2023, Ninh Binh won the Travelers' Choice Award as the only Vietnamese representative to make it into the Top 10 Friendliest Destinations in the World. Forbes magazine (USA) recognized Ninh Binh as one of the 23 must-visit places globally.

Most recently, in 2024, Ninh Binh was ranked 4th in the "Top 10 Wonders of the World for Those Who Hate Crowds."

Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh

Scenic Boat Ride in Trang An/Tam Coc

Some of the most beautiful scenes in Ninh Binh can only be accessed by boat. A boat trip through Trang An or Tam Coc is an essential activity. The boatman will row along the serene waters, beneath the shadow of towering limestone mountains. The boat will stop at temples and glide beneath caves, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery.

>> See more at: Ninh Binh: A Boat Tour Paradise

Explore the Ancient Capital Hoa Lu

Located just 20 minutes by car from Trang An, Hoa Lu was the first capital of Vietnam. It reached its peak during the 10th and 11th centuries when the surrounding limestone landscapes served as a natural defense against invaders. Today, you can stroll through the remaining architectural relics of the ancient citadel. The slanted archways, tiered banyan trees, and brick courtyards will transport you back in time

Climb up Hang Mua viewpoint

This popular Ninh Binh destination is well-known among young travelers for its expansive lotus pond. During the summer, visitors flock here to photograph the thousands of blooming lotus flowers. To reach the summit of Hang Mua, you’ll need to climb 500 steps. From the top, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the Tam Coc valley.

Explore the Countryside by Bike

Cycling through the countryside is one of the best ways to experience Trang An and Tam Coc. If your homestay provides bicycles, you can enjoy this activity for free! There's no need for a map or a set route—just hop on your bike and take in the scenery.

As you ride, you’ll pass lush rice fields, majestic mountains, serene rivers, lakes, and grazing buffalo. The area’s beauty and tranquility are hard to describe—you really have to see it for yourself!

Tip: It’s useful to have a downloaded version of Google Maps for the area, just in case you get a bit lost.

Explore Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong is the oldest national park in Vietnam. The entrance fee is just 60,000 VND for adults and 10,000 VND for children under 10 years old. You can visit the center for the rehabilitation of reptiles and primates, then explore the trails to see a grove of ancient trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old.

Wander Around Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is an extensive complex and the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia. It is a renowned pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over Vietnam. You'll be amazed by the thousands of Buddha statues, intricately carved bells, and the impressive 13-story pagoda.

>> See more at: Top check-in spots in Ninh Binh

When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is a destination you can visit at any time of the year. However, it's particularly recommended to go in spring (January to March) when the weather is cool and there are many festivals, or in autumn (August - October) to enjoy the golden rice fields and fragrant lotus ponds.

Ninh Binh is not just a destination; it's an immersive experience that offers an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese life. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, this enchanting region lures visitors with the warmth of local community, savory regional dishes, and the rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking thrilling hikes, peaceful natural retreats, or a deep dive into local traditions, Ninh Binh caters to all interests.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Vietnam? If you’re intrigued by the idea of exploring Ninh Binh as well as other hidden gems of Vietnam, check out our Northern Vietnam Leisure and Sightseeing Itinerary. Or simply contact us for a tailored tour that best suit your needs!

Asia Mystika Travel is a Vietnamese local travel agency dedicated to bringing first-hand experience of lovely scenery, and distinctive indigenous cultures to every customer. With professional local tour guides and prestiged airline partners (4 domestic airlines and over 300 international airlines), we offer unique local experience at an extremely reasonable price. All tours are 100% customizable, no shopping and no extra fee.

Contact us for a personalized travel itinerary according to your preferences:

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