Halong Bay vs Ninh Binh: Which Vietnamese Destination is Right for Your Next Family Adventure?

The World Heritage Site designation has brought Halong Bay to global attention, while Ninh Binh, despite its breathtaking beauty, has received considerably less recognition. If you’re considering a cruise in Halong Bay or exploring the paddy fields of Ninh Binh, this article can help you make your decision.

Quick Overview of Halong Bay vs Ninh Binh

Halong Bay

Location

Halong Bay is in the province of Quang Ninh in the far northeast of Vietnam. Among the most spectacular natural settings in the nation may be found at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has a magnificent seascape of verdant waters studded with more than 1,600 limestone islands and islets.

Accessibility

From Hanoi, which is around 160 kilometers distant, getting to Halong Bay is rather easy. Tour groups typically include round-trip transportation in their packages, and most tourists take advantage of this by hiring private buses or pricey shuttles. Private tourists also have the option of taking a public bus from Hanoi to Halong City, however seaplane transfers, which provide a bird’s-eye view of the bay and are speedier, are a more picturesque flight.

Weather

Summer (April–September) and winter (October–March) are the two main seasons of Halong Bay’s tropical environment. Warm summers with sprinkles of rain and milder winters with a mystical mist make for a picture-perfect bay. In winter, you can expect temperatures of 15°C (59°F), while in summer, you can expect temperatures of 30°C (86°F).

Best Time to Visit

October through April, and especially March and April, as well as October and November, are the best months to visit Halong Bay. During these months, you may enjoy beautiful weather, with sunny skies, moderate temperatures, and calm seas excellent for island cruises. Tourists who want to escape the crowds can try to visit during the week.

Ninh Binh

Location

Ninh Binh is a northern Vietnamese province that is commonly called the “Halong Bay on Land”. Situated about 100 kilometers south of Hanoi, it is home to stunning scenery that combines limestone karsts, paddy fields and winding rivers. Bai Dinh Pagoda and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital are two ancient religious and historical sites in the province.

Accessibility

Day trips to Ninh Binh are common because of how close it is to Hanoi. The Hanoi Railway Station is the starting point for direct trains that, for around two hours, transport passengers over picturesque and comfortable routes. If you prefer more freedom, you may also hire private cars or use the transit system. Notably, one of the most common ways to see the famous countryside of Ninh Binh is by bike.

Weather

Ninh Binh has four separate seasons due to its tropical monsoon environment. Temperatures drop to 16°C (61°F) during the dry and chilly winter months of December through February, while the hot and humid summer months of May through September see heavy rains on a regular basis. You may enjoy mild weather and verdant foliage in the spring (March–April) and fall (October–November).

Best Time to Visit

Dry season, which begins in November and lasts until April, is ideal for seeing Ninh Binh. Cooler weather with bright skies makes this time of year perfect for outdoor pursuits like canoeing on Tam Coc or trekking to Mua Cave. May and the beginning of June are especially the most photogenic months because the rice fields develop a golden hue during harvest.

Scenery and Natural Beauty

Halong Bay’s Iconic Seascapes

Limestone Islands and Emerald Waters

The limestone islands dotting Halong Bay are evidence of nature’s power. With their towering cliffs adorned with verdant vegetation, these formations have been molded over 500 million years by erosion, tectonic movements and weathering. Some of the islands seem like animals, while others like fantastical creatures, which is what gives the islands unique characters.

Unique limestone formations in Halong Bay:

• Hon Ga Choi: Among the most well-known sights in Halong Bay is this rock formation that looks like a brawl between two roosters. Its middle bay location makes it a popular photography location, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the islet.
• Thien Cung Cave: Famous for its hypnotic stalactites and stalagmites, this cavern almost takes you to another dimension. Legends and mythology from Vietnam come to life in these elaborate rock structures, brought to life by blinking lights.
• Luon Cave: Luon Cave, which can only be reached by kayak or a little bamboo canoe, provides a close encounter with nature. Once you paddle through the arch-like entrance, you’ll find yourself in a serene lagoon framed by majestic cliffs—a calm sanctuary far from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.

The greenish-blue waters of Halong Bay are breathtaking in and of themselves, but they also change color as the light changes. The bay takes on a magical quality first thing in the morning when a gentle mist covers the sea. At midday, the green hues are amplified by the sun’s rays, making for a calm yet lively scene. This scene becomes even more enchanted as dusk draws near because the river takes on golden and orange hues.

Famous Cruising Spots

One cannot compare to a tour across Halong Bay. In this serene environment, surrounded by limestone islands, you may embark on an adventure that is equal parts peaceful and thrilling. Every cruise has something special to offer, from opulent ships with five-star facilities to more affordable alternatives that nonetheless provide genuine experiences. Visitors may rest certain that every trip takes advantage of the bay’s top attractions thanks to its well planned schedule.

Top cruising routes in Halong Bay:

• Bai Tu Long Bay: Bai Tu Long Bay is a more sedate substitute for the main bay for those who like to be alone. Through unspoiled islands and crystal-clear waterways, you’ll get a closer encounter with nature on this path.
• Lan Ha Bay: The pristine seas and hidden beaches of Lan Ha Bay, which is close to Cat Ba Island, are well-known. Because it is less congested yet just as beautiful, this path is ideal for swimming and kayaking.
• Halong Central Route: Traditional Halong Bay tours follow the bay’s center and pass by famous landmarks such Titov Island, Sung Sot Cave, and the Fighting Cocks Islet. It perfectly captures the essence of the bay and is perfect for first-time visitors.

> You May Need This Itinerary: Best 3 Day Halong Bay Cruise—Iconic Vietnam Experience

Ninh Binh’s Serene Landscape

The environment of Ninh Binh is characterized by its towering limestone mountains. These peculiar cliffs, valleys, and caverns rose sharply from level rice fields and formed over millions of years. These karst mountains are an ecological treasure since they improve the landscape and provide homes for endangered species.

Iconic landscapes to visit in Ninh Binh

• Tam Coc: Situated in Ninh Binh, the scenic Tam Coc (literally “Three Caves”) invites visitors. Colors harmonize as karst mountains around meandering rivers and beautiful rice terraces. In May and June, when the fields are becoming a vivid yellow for the rice harvest, visitors can really appreciate the tranquility of the place.
• Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: Geologists and cultural historians have long acknowledged the cultural and geological importance of the Trang An limestone mountain and river combination. Caves, valleys and ancient ruins abound in Trang An, setting it apart from neighboring regions. Tourists may learn about the area’s past as a religious center and historic capital while floating peacefully along its rivers bordered by karst mountains.

Rice Paddies and Seasonal Beauty

Ninh Binh’s rice paddies are a beautiful feature that changes with the seasons: 

• During Planting Season (March–April): The fields are covered in bright green, creating a fresh and lively scene.
• During Harvest Season (May–June): In stark contrast to the limestone mountains, the landscape is dominated by golden hues. This is the best time for photography and sightseeing.
• Post-Harvest Period (July–August): A tranquil allure is enhanced by the flooded fields, which mirror the sky and mountains in the water.

> Explore This Tour: Northern Vietnam Heritages 6 Days

Activities and Attractions

Halong Bay

Family-Friendly Cruises and Kayaking

There are several cruises in Halong Bay that are suitable for families, so people of all ages may enjoy the breathtaking scenery. With fun and educational pursuits like kayaking, swimming and deck relaxation, these cruises are perfect for families. For the whole family’s amusement, several cruise lines include themed activities, such culinary demonstrations or traditional plays.

Best cruises for families in Halong Bay:

• Paradise Elegance Cruise: There are a variety of activities available on this trip, including culinary workshops, squid fishing and live music performances, and the service is known to be both lavish and family-oriented. Enjoy meals on the sundeck while taking in the breathtaking limestone formations, or unwind in one of the roomy rooms designed for families.
• Bhaya Cruise: Bhaya Cruise is dedicated to creating individualized family vacations with small group numbers and a welcoming environment. To keep the little ones occupied, the ship offers activities like traditional Vietnamese handicrafts.
• Peony Cruise: As part of this intermediate choice, you may see demonstrations of Vietnamese cuisine as well as kayaking and swimming. Indulge in fun activities as a family and discover less visited parts of the bay.

Kayaking Adventures for Families

Families may have a closer connection with nature when kayaking in Halong Bay. The serene waters nestled amid limestone karsts provide an amazing adventure for families with children. For your safety and to see the bay’s hidden treasures, several kayak rental places provide guided trips.

Top kayaking spots in Halong Bay:

• Luon Cave: A serene area surrounded by cliffs, ideal for families looking for calm waters and peaceful scenery.
• Ba Hang Fishing Village: This traditional floating village provides a glimpse into the local way of life, accessible via kayaking tours.
• Dark and Bright Cave: Famous for its tranquil setting, this area offers gentle currents and stunning views, making it family-friendly.

Exploring Caves and Islands

Some of the hundreds of islands and caverns in Halong Bay have fascinating histories of their own. Because they provide light on the area’s cultural and geological importance, exploring these natural formations is a must-do on any vacation.

Famous caves to visit in Halong Bay:

• Sung Sot Cave: In Sung Sot, one of the biggest and most spectacular caves in Halong Bay, you can see spectacular stalactites and stalagmites arranged in two major chambers. The bay may be seen from the top chamber’s panoramic windows.
• Thien Cung Cave: The beautiful formations lit up by the many lights in this cave give it an enchanted feel. Many tourists go to see it because of the elaborate carvings that depict scenes from mythology.
• Dau Go Cave: Legend has it that this cave was a stronghold for the resistance during the Mongolian invasion. History buffs and ecotourists are both enchanted by its vast interior spaces and breathtaking scenery.

Recommended islands to explore in Halong Bay:

• Ti Top Island: This island is ideal for swimming, trekking or just lounging about thanks to its crescent-shaped beach and breathtaking views from its top.
• Cat Ba Island: Cat Ba National Park is part of the island’s thriving environment, which has made it famous as Halong Bay’s biggest island. Tourists have the option to go biking, hiking, or exploring the nearby fishing towns.
• Ban Sen Island: Hidden jewel that few people know about, this island has beautiful, unspoiled beaches and a tranquil vibe perfect for anyone who wants to get away from it all.

Water Sports and Beach Activities

There are a lot of water sports and places to unwind on Halong Bay’s fine sandy beaches. Even while the bay is well-known for kayaking and sailing, it also has plenty of peaceful areas where families can go swimming, play on the beach, or even do some rather extreme watersports.

Suggested activities to enjoy in Halong Bay:

• Swimming at Ti Top Beach: The beach’s pristine waters and convenient accessibility make it one of the top swimming spots in Halong Bay. Spend some quality time together with your family on the beach, where everyone may play in the sand and water.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding: An ever-growing number of people are taking up stand-up paddleboarding as an energetic means of discovering the area. The activity offers a refreshing viewpoint of the limestone cliffs and the seas around. And, it’s enjoyable and easy enough for people of all ages to try.
• Jet Skiing and Banana Boat Rides: Exciting water activities in Halong Bay include jet skiing and banana boat excursions, perfect for families with older children and teenagers. Typically, you may find these kinds of things nearer to more populated beaches and islands, such the ones around Ti Top or Cat Ba.

> Do Not Miss: 15 Unmissable Halong Bay Attractions for Adventurers & Nature Lovers

Ninh Binh

Boat Tours to Tam Coc and Trang An

Boat tours are among the most famous methods to see the stunning surroundings of Ninh Binh. The karst mountains, rivers, and caverns of the area may be seen from a new angle on these serene, picturesque rides. While every trip is unique, you can expect to see the breathtaking scenery that has made Ninh Binh renowned.

Highlights of Tam Coc boat tours:

• Bich Dong Pagoda: You may visit this old pagoda before or after your trip. It is conveniently located near the boat port and has a beautiful mountain backdrop.
• Seasonal Rice Fields: At different times of year, the verdant rice paddies that border the Ngo Dong River take on shades of golden yellow and verdant green, respectively, when the rice is harvested.
• The Three Caves: The boat trip takes you through Hang Ba, Hang Hai and Hang Ca—three different natural caverns. Beautiful rock formations are lit up by sunshine spilling through the openings of each cave, which creates a calm, shady refuge.

Highlights of Trang An boat tours:

• Unique Cave Routes: There are a number of distinct tour routes in Trang An, and they all travel through several caves—the Dark Cave, the Light Cave and the Wine Cave—with secret lagoons connecting some of them.
• Kong: Skull Island Film Set: The place became famous all over the world after Kong: Skull Island was filmed there. Guests may walk through a recreation of a tribal village and feel like they’re in a movie.
• Cultural Temples: You may learn about Vietnam’s spiritual history by taking a boat trip, which typically stops at ancient temples like Suoi Tien Temple and Tran Temple.

Cycling through the Countryside

By pedaling your way across Ninh Binh, you may fully immerse yourself in the rural landscape of the region, where tranquility and breathtaking scenery await. Everyone from families to lone tourists may enjoy a bike ride as it brings you closer to the local culture and stunning scenery.

Best cycling routes in Ninh Binh:

• Tam Coc to Bich Dong Pagoda: Families and those just starting out will love this shorter route. With limestone mountains as a breathtaking backdrop, the trail meanders through colorful rice terraces. At the very end of the trail lies the Bich Dong Pagoda, a historic monument where you may take in breathtaking views.
• Trang An to Hoa Lu: You may experience both cultural immersion and breathtaking scenery along this path. After pedaling through verdant meadows and peaceful rivers, cyclists reach Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s former capital. There are many little roadside stands where you may stop and try some regional delicacies.
• Thung Nham Bird Garden: Those interested in nature can follow this path to the Thung Nham Bird Garden, a biodiverse sanctuary where they can see endangered species in their native environment. The ride is beautiful at any time of day, but it really comes alive at sunrise and dusk when the scenery is at its most breathtaking.

Visiting Ancient Temples and Caves

The historical and cultural importance of Ninh Binh contributes to its fame, which is already well-known for its stunning scenery. Several well-preserved historic temples, caverns and pagodas in the region offer insight into the long and illustrious history of Vietnam. By delving into these locations, you may enrich your vacation and forge a connection with the local culture.

Must-Visit Temples in Ninh Binh:

• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Hoa Lu is a historically significant location since it was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. The Dinh and Le King Temples, which are devoted to Vietnam’s earliest rulers, are open to the public. The serene courtyards and magnificent stone sculptures of these temples are set against the backdrop of picturesque mountains.
• Bai Dinh Pagoda: Renowned for its magnificence and ethereal ambiance, Bai Dinh Pagoda stands as the biggest Buddhist structure in Southeast Asia. There are many stone sculptures of Buddhist gods and goddesses, as well as a thirteen-story bell tower and a gigantic bronze statue of the Buddha. Its perch on a mountaintop provides stunning panoramas of the landscape below.

Accommodation: Halong Bay vs Ninh Binh

Family-Friendly Hotels in Halong Bay

Beachfront Resorts

Luxury resorts in Halong Bay provide beachfront locations with breathtaking views and a variety of services perfect for families. With these resorts’ convenient beach access, family can relax in style while enjoying a variety of aquatic sports. Particularly, several of these resorts cater specifically to families with amenities like pools and kids’ clubs.

Top beachfront resorts for families in Halong Bay:

• Vinpearl Resort & Spa Halong: Guests rave about the large family suites and the abundance of fun activities, such as the water park, playground, and kids’ club.
• Halong Bay Hotel: This one includes a private beach, restaurants that are suitable for families, and things to do like nature excursions and kayaking.
• Royal Lotus Hotel Halong: This beachfront hotel caters to families with its spacious accommodations, kid-friendly amenities and convenient location.

Cruise Ships

A family vacation on a Halong Bay cruise is an adventure unlike any other. With these cruises, you may enjoy sightseeing, activities and leisure all in one holiday package. Ultimately, the goal of planning a family-friendly cruise is to make sure that everyone has a good time, from the parents to the kids.

Top family-friendly cruise ships in Halong Bay:

• Indochina Sails: Reputation has been built on its large accommodations and kid-friendly activities, such as swimming in Halong Bay’s crystal blue waters and exploring nearby caves.
• Paradise Luxury Cruise: It features a variety of family-friendly activities, such as culinary workshops and a kids’ menu, in addition to a specialized kid’s club.
• Aphrodite Cruises: This is an excellent alternative for families because of the family suites, the children’s programs and the family-friendly outdoor excursions.

Kid-friendly Amenities

To make sure that families visiting Halong Bay have a relaxing holiday, it is important to choose lodgings with kid-friendly features. The majority of Halong Bay’s hotels and resorts go out of their way to make sure that younger guests have fun and have all the necessities met.

Notable hotels with kid-friendly amenities in Halong Bay:

• Novotel Ha Long Bay: This hotel caters to families with large rooms, a playground and an outdoor pool with a special area for kids.
• FLC Halong Bay Golf Club & Luxury Resort: The property has a big pool with shallow waters, a kids’ club that hosts events every day, and rooms that can fit more people for family gatherings.
• Muong Thanh Grand Ha Long Hotel: It has a reputation for providing things that families love, such as daytime activities, play areas and family-friendly trips.

Accommodation Options in Ninh Binh

Eco-Lodges

Visitors to Ninh Binh who are concerned about their influence on the environment may find a sustainable and personal experience at one of the city’s eco-lodges. The peaceful, secluded locales frequently encircle these resorts with rice paddies, limestone mountains and woods. Typically, most of the hotels put an emphasis on eco-friendly policies including using solar power, recycling and buying from local vendors.

Top eco-lodges in Ninh Binh:

• Tam Coc Garden Resort: Located close to Tam Coc, this tranquil eco-lodge provides breathtaking views of the surrounding limestone mountains and rice paddies. It offers a range of trips focused on nature and places an emphasis on eco-friendly methods.
• Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: Its eco-lodge setting is ideal for ecotourists seeking peace and quiet among famous natural attractions.
• Trang An Eco-Resort: Green lodgings and outdoor pursuits like boat cruises and cave exploration are available at this resort, which is set in verdant surroundings.

Riverfront Hotels

Guests of the riverfront hotels in Ninh Binh may enjoy breathtaking views of the rivers that wind through the area. Guests at these facilities have close access to the river, so they have many chances for boat trips, fishing and other water-based adventures. Many visitors to Ninh Binh all want to stay near the river so they can relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Top riverfront hotels in Ninh Binh:

• The Reed Hotel: In a prime location, close to several of Ninh Binh’s top attractions—including the Trang An eco-tourism complex—this five-star hotel provides beautiful river views.
• Bich Dong Hotel: Situated on the banks of the serene Hoang Long River, this hotel offers the ideal combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. The hotel arranges boat tours so that visitors may see the local scenery and caverns.
• Hoa Lu Ninh Binh Hotel: This hotel provides a peaceful getaway on the banks of a picturesque river, as well as access to local restaurants and attractions including wildlife preserves and boat trips.

Homestays

Tourists interested in mingling with locals might get what they’re seeking for at homestays in Ninh Binh. Tourists may immerse themselves in rural Vietnamese life by staying with local families in homestays. Through these lodgings, one may have a taste of the local cuisine, experience local traditions and feel a closer bond with the culture.

Top homestays in Ninh Binh:

• Tam Coc Banana Bungalow: Surrounded by a verdant environment, this guesthouse provides comfortable rooms and cottages. In addition to delicious home-cooked meals, guests may relax and enjoy the company of the kind and welcoming proprietors.
• Ninh Binh Mountain View Homestay: Situated in a rural setting close to the mountains, this homestay provides tranquil accommodations with breathtaking views and the chance to discover the surrounding region.
• La Belle Vie Tam Coc: With a blend of contemporary amenities and warm local warmth, this guesthouse is sure to enchant. Guests may enjoy tasty meals prepared with fresh, regional ingredients while being escorted on tours of local landmarks.

Cultural and Historical Experiences

Halong Bay

Floating Villages

The floating villages of Halong Bay are a fascinating glimpse into the life of local fishermen who have lived on the water for generations. These villages are scattered across the bay and are built on platforms or boats that float on the water, blending with the dramatic seascapes. Visitors can explore these villages on boat tours, getting a firsthand look at how people live in such a remote and tranquil environment.

Top floating villages to visit in Halong Bay:

• Cai Beo Floating Village: Cai Beo, one of Halong Bay’s oldest floating settlements, is situated on Cat Ba Island. The distinctive floating houses and thriving fishing culture of the town have made it famous.
• Vung Vieng Floating Village: Popular with sightseers, Vung Vieng is best reached by boat and provides an idyllic look into the floating villages’ traditional way of life. Tourists may learn about the local culture, fisheries and floating markets by taking a boat trip around the area.
• Ba Hang Floating Village: Boat cruises frequently stop at the charming town of Ba Hang, which is located close to the world-famous Ti Top Island. Residents here are famously easygoing, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquil waters of Halong Bay.

Cultural Tours

In addition to the breathtaking scenery, cultural excursions of Halong Bay allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the local traditions and history. Typical stops on these trips include important cultural icons and locations, which illuminate the history of the region.

Top cultural tours to experience in Halong Bay:

• Halong Bay Cultural Heritage Tour: On this excursion, guests will see the neighboring islands rich in history and the world-renown Sung Sot Cave, one of the biggest and most spectacular caverns in the region. Guests may also take in the region’s rich history and culture at the Halong Bay Museum.
• Cat Ba Island Cultural Tour: Cat Ba Island is a great place to learn about local culture up close and personal. Along with seeing historical monuments and fishing towns, this tour also gives you the opportunity to meet locals.
• Tuan Chau Island Cultural Exploration: The entertainment and culture of Tuan Chau Island are a fusion of indigenous traditions. To help you better grasp the area’s storied past, this trip stops at cultural venues including theaters, museums and artisan stores.

Local Interactions

The floating villages of Halong Bay are cultural wonders due to the way they showcase the harmonious coexistence of modernity and ancient ways of life. These towns reveal something about the lifestyle of the long-time bay residents.

Top local interaction tours in Halong Bay:

• Fishermen’s Life Tour: This tour focuses on the traditional fishing culture of Halong Bay. Visitors can meet local fishermen, learn about their techniques and even join them for a day on the water.
• Cooking and Culture Tour: A great way to learn about the local food culture, this tour includes a cooking class, market visit and an opportunity to dine with local families.
• Bamboo Craft Making Tour: In this interactive experience, visitors can visit local artisans who specialize in bamboo crafts and try their hand at making traditional items, like baskets or mats.

Ninh Binh

Historical Temples

Ninh Binh’s old temples are important monuments because they show how the region’s spiritual life has evolved throughout the time. Construction of numerous temples throughout the Dinh and Le dynasties reflects the veneration of local deities and ancestor spirits at that time. As well as being places of prayer, these holy locations are important historical and architectural artifacts.

Top historical temples to visit in Ninh Binh:

• Bich Dong Pagoda: The three-story Bich Dong Pagoda, frequently referred to as the “Second Most Beautiful Pagoda in Vietnam”, stands majestically against the Ngu Mountain cliffs in a picturesque setting.
• Phat Diem Cathedral: The Vietnamese and Gothic styles were used in the construction of this temple in the late 19th century. Anyone interested in history or architecture should make a point of visiting the cathedral to appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and magnificent design.
• Thai Vi Temple: The historical importance of the region is borne up by this temple, which is devoted to the Tran Dynasty royal family. The limestone peaks provide a picturesque and spiritual setting for the shrine.

Pagodas

Native Vietnamese spiritual beliefs are reflected in the pagodas of Ninh Binh, which are significant cultural relics as well as places of worship. These serene pagodas are perfect for reflection and meditation because of their elaborate architecture and their placement in harmony with their natural surroundings.

Top pagodas to visit in Ninh Binh:

• Bai Dinh Pagoda: Among Vietnam’s most famous pagodas, Bai Dinh is revered for its spiritual importance, tranquil ambiance, and enormous sculptures. Setting the pagoda against the background of limestone mountains creates a beautiful harmony between building and nature.
• Am Tien Pagoda: This pagoda, housed in the Am Tien Cave, is less frequented by tourists but provides a peaceful retreat with old sculptures and views of the mountains.
• Hang Mua Pagoda: The ascent to the summit site of Hang Mua Pagoda is well worth it because of the spectacular panorama it provides of Ninh Binh’s stunning scenery.

Ancient Royal Capital Hoa Lu

During the reigns of the Dinh and Le dynasties, Hoa Lu served as the political and cultural center of Vietnam. It is now a cultural and historical landmark that explains the early Vietnamese dynasties to tourists. The ancient architecture and regal history of Hoa Lu are reflected in its temples and ruins, which were strategically important in the early years of Vietnam’s independence.

Key sites within Hoa Lu:

• Dinh Temple: Dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang, the founder of the Dinh Dynasty, this temple is one of the most prominent sites in Hoa Lu. The structure is known for its ancient wooden beams and elegant architecture.
• Le Temple: Though less massive than the Dinh Temple, this structure dedicated to King Le Dai Hanh is no less important. This temple was built in honor of the king and his role in the nation’s establishment.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel: The remnants of the Hoa Lu Citadel include the outer walls and some parts of the palace, giving a sense of the grand scale and strategic significance of the ancient capital.

Final Words

Halong Bay is a spectacular destination for families with children who like cruising, water sports, and staying at five-star resorts thanks to its verdant seas and 1,600 limestone islands. Meanwhile, Ninh Binh is perfect for families looking for a more calm inland escape with its peaceful rivers, historic temples, and rural charm. They may enjoy cycling, boat cruises, and homestays to truly immerse themselves in the local culture. 

While both Halong Bay vs Ninh Binh are conveniently accessible from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is more relaxed and affordable and Halong Bay is more tourist-oriented also expensive.

Since the most stunning tourist spots in Vietnam are waiting for you, get in touch with Asia Trip Deals now to learn more about our family-friendly tours, lodgings, and vacation packages, and we will do everything we can to build your ideal trip to Vietnam.