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.

The Best Places to Stay in Ninh Binh

For Families

• Emeralda Resort fuses traditional Vietnamese architecture with 21st-century amenities in a beautiful setting on the edge of the Van Long Nature Reserve. Families will adore the large suites, the kids club, babysitting services and array of nature-focused activities. You can also unwind at the spa after big days out!

For Romantic Luxury

• Tam Coc Garden Resort has just 16 indulgent suites and heritage houses within gorgeous gardens. Striking and secluded, this romantic escape has a strong eco and wellness focus, with a superb spa, community connections and fabulous cuisine using garden-grown produce and fresh fish or prawns from the river. A soulful hideaway for those looking to slow down.

For Great Value

• Lalita Boutique Hotel & Spa is a chic little hotel in Ninh Thang, with airy rooms clad in dark wooden tones. Stylish and romantic, it's also appealingly reasonably priced, making it a brilliant base for exploring the region. A rooftop pool and buzzy restaurant complete the experience.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or villa we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport, and travel south-west to Ninh Binh by road or rail in just two hours. Speak to your hotel in advance about arranging an airport transfer.
• If you're comfortable driving in Asia, contact our partner Rentalcars to hire a car.
• Expect daytime temperatures of 25–32°C during the dry season, which runs from October to March. April to September are the rainiest months, popular with nature enthusiasts but potentially difficult for hiking as paths tend to be slippery when wet.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to discover the best places to stay in Hanoi.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of the best places to stay in Vietnam.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.