A small city in northern Vietnam’s Red River Delta, Ninh Binh has a fascinating history as an ancient royal capital. Now attracting heritage enthusiasts as well as keen outdoorsy explorers, it’s a wonderful destination for off-the-beaten-track holidays. Charming, secluded and stylish, our pick of the best places to stay in Ninh Binh promises a very special stay for guests of all ages — and a whole range of budgets!
If you’re interested in Vietnam’s rich cultural past, you’ll find an almost endless array of intriguing temples to discover in the Ninh Binh region. Set within leafy jungles or amidst craggy limestone formations, these ancient sites of worship hint at the area’s past significance — and are increasingly popular with Vietnamese visitors from across the country. The UNESCO-listed Trang An Grottoes are marvellous, as are the Mua Caves. Inhale fragrant incense at the Bich Dong Pagoda, step into the imposing Phat Diem Cathedral or take to the verdant waterways of the Red River Delta to reach the remains of the Hoa Lu temples, which date back to the Dinh and Le dynasties.
Hikers, climbers, mountain bikers and kayakers will adore the Cuc Phuong National Park — the oldest in Vietnam — and the Van Long Nature Reserve, which abounds with rare birds. Take a knowledgeable naturalist with you to really delve into the flora and fauna of the region. The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary is another highlight, rescuing bears since 2017. Speak to the team at your choice of the best places to stay in Ninh Binh for their top recommendations.