Where to Stay in Ninh Binh: Best Hotels, Areas & Tips | Vietnam Purple Travel Guide
When you are researching where to stay in the Ninh Binh area, particularly for attractions like Hang Mua Mountain or the boat tours in Tam Coc or Trang An, most travel blogs often point you towards quaint guesthouses or homestays in Trang An or Tam Coc, often dismissing Ninh Binh city itself as lacking character. While the idea of an authentic homestay close to the natural wonders certainly sounds appealing, the reality of travel in this region has evolved.
What once might have been quiet rural roads for walking or cycling to local attractions are now mostly paved streets, and traffic in Ninh Binh can be surprisingly heavy. The good news? Grab taxis are widely available and affordable, making transportation seamless no matter where you choose to rest your head. So, the exact proximity to a specific attraction matters less than it once did, as a quick Grab ride can get you anywhere in minutes.
Our Top Accommodation Recommendations for Ninh Binh
1. Hoa Lu Old Town: Ninh Binh’s Evening Gem
For fantastic evenings and diverse dining, Hoa Lu Old Town is, in our opinion, the best place to be. This charming area lights up beautifully at night, offering a wonderful atmosphere for dinner and leisurely strolls. You will find a wide array of hotels for every budget near Hoa Lu Old Town, from comfortable stays to more luxurious options.
Just a heads-up: the higher-class hotels can sell out quickly, especially during peak season, so it is wise to book your stay in advance if this is your preferred location.
2. Accommodation in the Trang An or Tam Coc Areas (West of Ninh Binh)
If your priority is shaving a little time off your morning commute to popular spots, staying directly within the Trang An or Tam Coc areas can be beneficial. This is particularly true if you plan to visit Hang Mua Mountain for sunrise views or embark on an early Tam Coc or Trang An boat tour before the main tourist crowds arrive.
While Ninh Binh is far less congested than major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City during rush hour, staying closer to Trang An or Tam Coc can still save you at least 15 minutes by car (approximately 5 miles or 8 km) on travel time to these specific attractions.
Here you can find the accommodations that are available when you visit:
Our top pick: Lalita Boutique Hotel and Spa Ninh Binh
Lalita Boutique Hotel and Spa Ninh Binh is an excellent choice due to its strategic location amidst Ninh Binh's stunning landscapes. Situated in the Tam Coc - Bich Dong tourist center, it offers convenient access to major attractions like Hang Mua (about 9-minute drive) and both the Trang An boat tour (around 13 minutes by car) and Tam Coc boat tour (just a 4-minute drive or 1 mile (1.6 km) walk).
Lalita Boutique Hotel and Spa Ninh Binh provides a serene escape with picturesque views, and its large clean rooms and friendly staff ensure a wonderful stay.
Find our full review of the Lalita Boutique Hotel and Spa Ninh Binh.
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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel
Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.
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