Are you ready for an unforgettable family friendly adventure in South East Asia? Then Ninh Binh, Vietnam, awaits with its mesmerising landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Red River Delta, this province boasts stunning limestone karsts, lush rice paddies, and ancient pagodas. But can you explore this wonderland with young children? Absolutely! Last summer we added Ninh Binh to our SE Asia itinerary and it was easily one of the highlights of our trip.
Getting to and from Ninh Bihn
Embarking on a family friendly adventure in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, promises unforgettable memories amidst stunning natural landscapes. Getting to this enchanting destination is part of the adventure itself, with various transport options offering unique experiences. For those seeking convenience, the most common way to reach Ninh Binh is by train from Hanoi, offering a comfortable and scenic journey. The trip takes around two hours and various seating options are available. We booked our tickets the day before at the main train station in Hanoi. Alternatively, families can opt for a more immersive experience by taking a local bus or a more comfortable way by arranging a private car. Onward travel south to other destinations in Vietnam is possible either via train, bus or private car, or you can return to Hanoi for onward flight travel to other exciting destinations within Vietnam or South East Asia.
Getting around Ninh Binh
Luckily, Ninh Binh province is compact and easily navigable, making it ideal for family travel. Consider renting bicycles to pedal through the serene countryside of paddy fields and limestone karsts, or hop on a traditional sampan boat for a leisurely ride along the winding rivers.
The majority of roads here are relatively quiet and we always felt safe with our little rascals when travelling around. Depending on your comfort levels, you could hire a driver for some of the more remote places to see. However we found that a combination of bicycles and mopeds allowed us to explore most of this stunning region. Our guest house (details further down) arranged the rental of our mopeds and bikes, and even found a kids bike for our eldest rascal.
Must See Family Friendly Sights
One of the best parts about a family trip to Ninh Binh is simply being in nature. With either bicycles or a small moped, you can easily navigate the countryside and experience the terrific landscape on offer. Many people start their adventure at Tam Coc, often dubbed the “Halong Bay on land.” Here, limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the emerald-green waters, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a boat excursion.
Next up, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Step back in time as you wander through the ruins of royal palaces and temples, learning about Vietnam’s rich history. Getting here was an easy cycle from Tam Coc. Once there it is a short climb to the top for fabulous views.
Trang An Caves
A very popular excursions, is the impressive Trang An cave complex. We reached here on our mopeds from Tam Coc. Here you can hire a boat and captain to paddle you and your family through the dramatic scenary of the area, through cool cave systems and to visit stunning temples.
There are three options for boat rides to take. We opted for Route 3 which goes through Trang An’s longest cave as well as taking in the main sights. The trip takes 2-3hours however it is varied enough to keep little ones entertained. The captain also had umbrellas to provide shade when needed.
For a dose of adventure, hike up to the Mua Caves for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Be warned, the hike is challenging for little ones. Our rascals ended up on our back for some of the hike up! We also kept them at the viewpoint for a breather while we went up separately to the very top. This turned out to be a wise move as it is very exposed at the summit.
Of course, no family trip is complete without some fun-filled activities and further afield you could consider booking a guided tour to Cuc Phuong National Park, where kids can marvel at diverse wildlife and lush jungle landscapes.
Where to Eat
Hungry after all that exploring? Fear not, Ninh Binh offers plenty of culinary delights to satisfy every palate including plenty that our little rascals enjoyed. Sample local specialities like goat meat, grilled fish, and crispy rice cakes at the bustling street markets. For a more relaxed dining experience, head to one of the riverside restaurants and savour delicious dishes while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
As the day winds down, treat yourself to a refreshing drink at one of Ninh Binh’s charming cafes. Sit back, relax, and reminisce about the day’s adventures while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Our two favourite places to eat and drink as the sun went down was The Banana Tree Hostel and the excellent Chookie’s Beer Garden (complete with shallow splash pool to cool down tired feet, hammocks, booths, a small children’s playpark with zipline…and some excellent beers on tap for mum and dad!). Highly recommended.
Where to Stay
Like any family-friendly adventure, finding the perfect accommodation is essential for a stress-free experience. We opted for the Tam Coc Moutain Lake Homestay as a base for our adventures…and couldn’t have been happier.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape of towering limestone karsts and a stone’s throw from the tranquil waters of the lake, Tac Coc Mountain Lake Homestay, was a hidden oasis. This charming homestay offers cosy accommodations and an authentic taste of Vietnamese rural life. We woke up each morning to the serene sounds of nature and enjoyed homemade breakfasts prepared with love by the owners.
Our room was incredibly spacious and next to the pool – perfect for cooling off at the end of the day exploring. It had two large double beds and plenty of space for us all. The owners are incredibly helpful when recommending places to visit, arranging bicycles and booking onward travel.
So what are you waiting for?
In conclusion, Ninh Binh, Vietnam, offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty for families with young children. With its easy accessibility, captivating sights, and delicious cuisine, it’s a destination that will leave everyone in awe. It also has the right balance of things to do yet is quiet enough to unwind and relax. It is perfect for a family holiday. So, pack your bags, gather your little explorers, and embark on an unforgettable family friendly adventure to this hidden gem of Southeast Asia.
