Discovering Ninh Binh by bicycle is a great opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful beauty of nature, combined with the profound cultural values of the ancient capital of thousands of years of history. From the green village roads covered with bamboo, the vast rice fields, to the ancient relics hidden among the charming mountains and rivers. This journey brings a rich experience, helping you to exercise and discover beautiful natural landscapes. Cycling through each small road, you not only enjoy the fresh air but also have the opportunity to explore the simple and familiar beauty of Ninh Binh, where natural beauty and culture blend miraculously.
Benefits of exploring Ninh Binh by bicycle
Discovering Ninh Binh by bicycle is not only a way to experience the unique natural scenery but also brings many practical values in terms of health, finance and environmental protection awareness. This is the perfect choice for those who like to explore gently and want to fully enjoy every moment when passing through the idyllic yet impressive scenes of the ancient capital.
Cost-effective and environmentally friendly
Using a bicycle to travel not only helps you save a lot of money but is also a great way to minimize the impact on the environment. While other means of transport consume fuel and cause pollution, bicycles do not emit any toxic gases, helping to preserve the fresh air of Ninh Binh. Moreover, renting a bicycle is often very cheap, suitable for the budget of all tourists, from students to those traveling with their families.
The special thing about cycling is that you can easily stop anywhere, explore the villages, rice fields or small attractions outside the main tourist routes. This not only helps save money but also opens up opportunities for you to enjoy the peaceful corners of Ninh Binh, which are difficult to access by car or other means.
In addition, the environmental friendliness of bicycles also brings a sense of peace to everyone. Cycling through the country roads, listening to the birds singing and feeling the coolness of nature helps you feel like you are helping to protect the beauty of this land, contributing to preserving the landscape for future generations.
Improve your health and connect with nature
Cycling is not only a means of transportation, but also an effective way to exercise on every trip. Cycling for hours continuously through the roads helps your body exercise comprehensively, improve your cardiovascular system and increase flexibility. Moreover, outdoor exercise also helps reduce stress and bring positive energy, making your journey full of excitement.
When traveling by bicycle, you have the opportunity to get closer to nature. Without glass doors or engines to separate you, you will clearly feel every cool breeze blowing through the rice fields, every gentle ray of sunlight shining through the treetops or even the gentle scent of wild flowers along the road. It is this connection that helps you enjoy the journey in the most authentic way, soothing the fatigue of everyday life.
In particular, cycling also brings a sense of freedom and initiative in your journey. Not limited by time or schedule, you can leisurely explore new places, stop to take pictures or simply sit and relax amidst a beautiful scene, creating unforgettable memories for the trip.
Ideal cycling route in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is not only famous for its picturesque landscapes but also possesses cycling routes that offer unique and diverse experiences. Each journey through each location opens up before visitors’ eyes a wonderful natural picture, harmoniously combining natural beauty and cultural and historical values. Below are the ideal routes for you to explore Ninh Binh on a bicycle:
Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong National Park is an ideal place for those who want to explore the wild and mysterious beauty of nature. The cycling journey here starts from the garden gate, leading you to the green tree-lined trails, where you can enjoy the fresh air and feel the tranquility of the primeval forest. The beautiful natural scenery, with hundreds of tall ancient trees and chirping birds, creates a peaceful but vibrant atmosphere.
As you move deeper into the forest, you will discover interesting destinations such as Con Moong Cave, which preserves traces of prehistoric people, or the thousand-year-old Chò tree, a typical symbol of Cuc Phuong. The feeling of cycling through the dense forests, interspersed with sunlight through the foliage, will bring you the most authentic experience of being close to nature.
The ideal end-of-day stop is the camping areas or eco-lodges in the forest. Here, you can participate in activities such as watching fireflies at night, interacting with locals or enjoying rustic dishes. Cycling is not only a journey to explore nature but also helps you find a sense of peace and relaxation in your soul.
Hoa Lu – Tam Coc
The Hoa Lu – Tam Coc route is a perfect combination of historical exploration and natural scenery. The journey starts from the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you can visit relics such as King Dinh Temple, King Le Temple, and many other ancient structures. On each turn of the wheel, you will clearly feel the historical breath echoing from the temples and mausoleums amidst the majestic mountain scenery.
Continue cycling along the vast rice fields, you will arrive at Tam Coc, known as “Ha Long on land”. The feeling of moving slowly in the peaceful natural space, with the Ngo Dong River winding on both sides, will make you feel like you are lost in a watercolor painting. Small boats carrying tourists on the river further enhance the poetic beauty of this place.
At the end of the journey, you can stop at roadside restaurants to enjoy Ninh Binh specialties such as burnt rice and goat meat. This is a journey that is not only beautiful in terms of landscape but also meaningful in terms of culture and history, bringing a complete experience to visitors.
Tam Coc – Thung Nham
Tam Coc – Thung Nham is an ideal route for those who love the diversity of natural ecosystems. Starting from Tam Coc, you will cycle through peaceful village roads, where traditional houses are nestled under the shade of green trees. The space opens before your eyes are vast rice fields, with majestic limestone mountains creating the perfect backdrop for the journey.
When arriving at Thung Nham eco-tourism area, you will be welcomed by a brilliant landscape with a series of attractive attractions such as But Cave, Vai Gioi Cave and Bird Garden. This is where you can stop to row a boat to watch birds, witnessing thousands of birds returning to their nests at sunset. The feeling of relaxation, blending into nature will make you forget all your fatigue.
Thung Nham is also a place where you can participate in interesting activities such as enjoying fruits in the orchards, or simply sitting back to enjoy the quiet space. The journey from Tam Coc to Thung Nham is not only beautiful but also an opportunity for you to explore the diversity of nature in Ninh Binh.
Cycling through Trang An
Trang An is one of the most popular cycling routes in Ninh Binh thanks to its majestic beauty and the harmonious combination of nature and culture. Starting from the gate of the tourist area, the journey takes you through winding roads, surrounded by limestone mountains and clear rivers. The space here is like a beautiful landscape painting, making visitors feel relaxed and comfortable right from the first laps.
Along the way, you will encounter famous attractions such as Trinh Temple, Tran Temple or magical caves such as Nau Ruou Cave, Sang Cave and Toi Cave. Each location carries interesting historical and cultural stories, making your journey more meaningful.
Cycling through Trang An is also an opportunity for you to enjoy local specialties at roadside eateries. From crispy rice slices to rich goat meat, all create a perfect ending to the trip. With its beautiful scenery and fresh air, Trang An will surely leave a deep impression on every visitor.
Must-see stops when cycling through Ninh Binh
Your journey to explore Ninh Binh by bicycle will become more interesting when you visit unique locations, each with its own beauty, from majestic natural scenery to historical and cultural relics. Here are five unmissable destinations that you should add to your plan.
Mua Cave – The Muse of Tam Coc
Múa Cave, located in the Tam Coc area, is one of the most prominent destinations in Ninh Binh, where you can both challenge yourself with steep stairs and admire the magnificent natural scenery. Dubbed the “Muse of Tam Coc”, this place has more than 500 stone steps leading to the top of the mountain, where you can admire the panoramic view of the poetic Tam Coc from above. The journey to Mua Cave is not only a journey of discovery but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the peaceful, fresh space of the Ninh Binh countryside.
On the cycling path leading to the foot of the mountain, you will experience the green village roads, where the golden rice fields stretch on both sides. The chirping of birds, the sound of the wind blowing through the bamboo groves and the fresh air create an atmosphere that makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. Cycling slowly past traditional houses, buffaloes leisurely grazing, you will feel the simple and close life of the local people.
When climbing to the top of Hang Mua, you will enjoy a beautiful scene that is rarely found anywhere else. The entire Tam Coc area appears before your eyes like a watercolor painting, with the Ngo Dong River winding through the fields and majestic limestone mountains. At sunset, the brilliant golden sunlight covers the landscape, creating a magical and romantic scene. This is definitely a place that you cannot miss on your journey to explore Ninh Binh.
Van Long Nature Reserve
Van Long, known as the “bay without waves,” is one of the most peaceful destinations in Ninh Binh. The water surface here is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the entire beauty of the blue sky, limestone mountains and rich ecosystem around. As the largest nature reserve in the Northern Delta, Van Long is not only a place for you to admire the beautiful scenery but also a place where you can explore the diversity of flora and fauna typical of Vietnam.
Cycling through the Van Long area is a memorable experience. You will pass through winding trails, surrounded by clear blue lagoons and vast grasslands. The quiet space, the chirping of birds mixed with the gentle sound of water lapping against the shore create a relaxing and intimate atmosphere. What’s special is that you can stop at any time to enjoy the scenery and take valuable souvenir photos.
One of the most interesting experiences in Van Long is sitting on small bamboo boats to explore the caves and watch the Delacour’s langur – a rare primate species that is being preserved here. Surrounded by pristine and peaceful nature, you will feel like you are completely away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. That is the special attraction of Van Long that no other place has.
Am Tien Cave – Tuyet Tinh Coc in the Heart of Ninh Binh
Am Tien Cave, often called “Tuyet Tinh Coc,” is a destination that stands out not only for its wild and mysterious beauty but also for its historical story associated with the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Located in a valley surrounded by towering limestone mountains, Am Tien Cave gives visitors the feeling of being lost in another world, completely separate from the hustle and bustle outside. This is the place where King Dinh Tien Hoang once chose to raise fierce tigers and train soldiers.
The road leading to Am Tien Cave is an emotional experience. Cycling through green rice fields, small streams and peaceful villages, you will feel the serenity and poetry in every pedal stroke. The winding trails, located between limestone mountains and green trees, not only make the journey more interesting but also make you feel like you are truly immersed in nature.
Upon arrival, you will encounter a beautiful blue lake in the middle of the valley, surrounded by towering cliffs. The lake surface is as calm as a giant mirror, reflecting the wild and mysterious beauty of the surrounding landscape. Not only is it a beautiful sight, Am Tien Cave is also an ideal place for meditation, peace of mind, helping you to shake off all the pressures of life. The journey to explore Am Tien Cave will definitely leave you with unforgettable memories.
Refer to cheap bicycle rental prices in Ninh Binh
Typically, bicycle rental prices range from 20,000 VND to 100,000 VND per day, depending on the type of bike you choose. For between 20,000 and 50,000 VND per day, you can rent simple bicycles, which are often provided at guesthouses, hotels or major tourist attractions. These types of bikes are suitable for short and not too rough routes, such as the routes around Tam Coc or peaceful villages.
For higher quality bicycles, the rental price is usually around 70,000 to 100,000 VND per day. These bikes are often modern, smooth, and better maintained, suitable for longer trips or traveling on mountainous roads such as Trang An or Cuc Phuong National Park.
In major tourist areas, bicycle rental prices are often clearly listed, with many flexible options. For example, at Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Area, bicycle rental prices are calculated by the hour or by the day:
- VND 30,000/hour: Suitable for tourists who want to cycle around the tourist area for a short tour.
- VND 70,000/half day: Ideal for those who want to spend the morning or afternoon exploring.
- VND 140,000/full day: Suitable for long journeys and exploring many places in the area.
In Tam Coc – Bich Dong, many homestays and tourist attractions also provide free bicycles for guests. Otherwise, you can rent a bicycle for about VND 50,000/day, depending on the agreement with the host.
For the best experience, you should carefully check the condition of the vehicle before deciding to rent. Pay attention to parts such as brakes, tires, saddle, and lights if you plan to travel at night. In addition, do not hesitate to ask clearly about the terms of rental price, usage time, and additional fees (if any) to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
If you are traveling in a group or renting a car for the whole family, negotiate with the owner to receive a preferential price. Some places also provide repair services or support in case the vehicle has problems on the road, so ask carefully about this to feel more secure when exploring.
Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for those who love to explore nature and enjoy the feeling of freedom on the cycling routes. With beautiful landscapes combining mountains, rivers and immense rice fields, this place offers a diverse and vivid landscape picture. In particular, the roads in Ninh Binh are not too steep, relatively flat, making it easy for visitors to cycle through peaceful villages, famous tourist areas and majestic landscapes. Prepare your bike, choose the route that suits your ability and interests, then set off to enjoy a memorable trip.
