Getting Around Ninh Binh

All your transport options and distances between major attractions

Ninh Binh's attractions are spread across the province (view on Google Maps), so choosing the right transport is key to a smooth trip. Motorbikes are extremely popular in Vietnam, but there are plenty of other options. You can also use ride-hailing app Grab for convenient point-to-point trips. The good news: getting around is easy and affordable, whether you prefer pedaling through rice paddies or being driven in comfort. For more tips see Wikivoyage and Vietnam Tourism.

Transport Options

🚲

Bicycle

Free - 50,000 VND/day ($0-2)

Best for: Short distances between Tam Coc attractions

+ Free from most hotels, scenic riding, healthy, flexible

- Limited range, tiring in heat, no good for distant sites

🏍️

Motorbike Rental

80,000-200,000 VND/day ($4-10)

Best for: Independent exploration of all attractions

+ Most flexible, covers long distances, affordable

- Need driving experience, international license recommended

📱

Grab (Ride-hailing)

Varies by distance

Best for: Point-to-point trips when convenient

+ App-based pricing, no haggling, available for bike and car

- 10-15 min wait times, limited availability in rural areas

🚕

Taxi

~12,000 VND/km ($0.50)

Best for: Groups, families, comfort

+ Door-to-door, comfortable, AC, good for groups

- Most expensive option, some meters run fast

🚗

Private Car + Driver

1,200,000-1,600,000 VND/day ($50-70)

Best for: Full-day sightseeing, families, luxury

+ Most comfortable, knowledgeable drivers, flexible itinerary

- Most expensive, need to book in advance

🔋

Electric Shuttle

Included in some tours

Best for: Within large attraction complexes

+ Easy, no effort needed, good for elderly/families

- Only at specific attractions (Bai Dinh, Trang An area)

Distances Between Attractions

From To Distance Travel Time
Ninh Binh City Tam Coc 7 km 15 min by motorbike
Ninh Binh City Trang An 8 km 15 min by motorbike
Tam Coc Trang An 10 km 20 min by motorbike
Tam Coc Mua Cave 5 km 10 min by bike/motorbike
Tam Coc Bich Dong 2 km 8 min by bicycle
Trang An Hoa Lu 3 km 5 min by motorbike
Trang An Bai Dinh Pagoda 5 km 10 min by motorbike
Ninh Binh City Cuc Phuong 45 km 1 hour by car
Ninh Binh City Van Long 20 km 30 min by car
Ninh Binh City Phat Diem 25 km 40 min by car
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Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a motorbike license to rent one in Ninh Binh?
Technically yes - you need an international driving permit with motorcycle endorsement. In practice, many shops rent without checking, but you won't be covered by insurance without proper documentation. For a legal and stress-free option, consider a private car with driver.

Can I use Grab in Ninh Binh?
Yes, Grab works in Ninh Binh but with longer wait times (10-15 minutes) than in major cities. It's available for both bike and car rides. Coverage is best around Ninh Binh city and Tam Coc area.

Is cycling between attractions feasible?
Within the Tam Coc area, absolutely! Tam Coc to Bich Dong (2 km), Mua Cave (5 km), and Thai Vi Temple are all easy cycling distances on flat terrain. For longer distances to Trang An or Hoa Lu, a motorbike or car is better.

What is the best way to get around Ninh Binh?
For most travelers, a combination works best: rent a bicycle for the Tam Coc area, and use a motorbike, Grab, or booked tour for longer distances to Trang An, Bai Dinh, Cuc Phuong, etc.