Ninh Binh is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Northern Vietnam, famous for emerald rice fields and towering limestone mountains. But unlike compact cities, Ninh Binh’s attractions are spread out, making smart transportation planning essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip. In this guide, you’ll discover the best transport options in Ninh Binh, from taxis and Grab to cycling, boating, and motorbike rentals, plus tips for first-time visitors, estimated costs, and recommended routes. Taxi Ninh Binh – Quick and Hassle-Free Ride Taxis are one of the fastest and easiest ways to get around, especially for short distances or when traveling with luggage. Pros Convenient door-to-door service Comfortable for families or groups Great for rainy or hot weather Estimated Costs Around 80,000 – 120,000 VND for short rides within Tam Coc or Trang An area 250,000 – 350,000 VND between major sightseeing spots Best Use Cases Traveling early morning or late night When you need comfort without negotiating prices How to Book Taxis Hotel reception can arrange reliable drivers Use local companies such as Mai Linh, Xuan Thanh, Hoa Lu taxi Always check the meter before starting Grab Ninh Binh – Affordable and Convenient Ride-Hailing Grab officially launched in Ninh Binh on June 19, 2024. While its coverage is more limited than in major cities like Hanoi, the service works reliably in central areas such as Tam Coc and Ninh Binh City, making it a convenient option for visitors. How Grab Works You can book rides through the Grab app using Wi-Fi or mobile data, choosing between GrabCar (4- or 7-seater) or GrabBike (motorbike). GrabCar is ideal for families or groups traveling from Ninh Binh city to attractions like Tam Coc, with wait times typically around 10–15 minutes and fares fixed in the app, payable by cash or credit card. GrabBike is perfect for solo travelers or couples exploring tourist areas, very affordable at around 25,000 VND for short trips, but strictly allows only one passenger per bike. Tips for First-Time Users of Grab in Ninh Binh To ensure a smooth experience, enable location services for accurate pickup, check the estimated fare before confirming your ride, and use a local Vietnamese SIM card with data, as international roaming can be slow and costly. When Grab Is a Better Choice Than a Taxi Grab is especially convenient for short solo trips, budget-conscious travelers, or anyone wanting to avoid language barriers and bargaining. For these scenarios, it can be faster and easier than hailing a traditional taxi. Cycling in Ninh Binh – Explore the Countryside at Your Own Pace Cycling is one of the most popular ways to explore Ninh Binh, especially around rural and scenic areas. Recommended Cycling Routes Tam Coc → Thai Vi Temple → Bich Dong Pagoda Trang An Scenic Complex Rice paddies and village routes near Thung Nham Bike Rental Tips Available at most hotels for 50,000 – 100,000 VND/day Choose a bike with gears and check brakes before riding Perfect for: first-time travelers wanting a peaceful and immersive local experience. >>> For a more guided and immersive journey, join our Ninh Binh Cycling Tour to discover hidden village paths and scenic rice field routes. Boating Adventures – Scenic Waterways of Ninh Binh Boat rides are the highlight of any trip to Ninh Binh. Tam Coc vs Trang An Boat RideRoute HighlightsBest Time to VisitDurationApprox. Price (per person)Tam CocSmaller, peaceful route through rice fields and limestone cliffsRice season (May-June) for lush green scenery1.5-2 hours150,000-200,000 VNDTrang AnLonger tour through caves, rivers, and historical templesPerfect year-round2.5-3 hours200,000-250,000 VNDVan Long Nature ReserveTranquil wetland with limestone peaks, rich birdlife, and fewer touristsIdeal in dry season (Nov-Apr)1.5-2 hours100,000-150,000 VND Private vs Shared Boats Private boats: quieter, flexible timing, higher cost Shared boats: social and budget-friendly Must-see spots: limestone caves, river valleys, floating lotus lakes, and ancient temples. Walking Tours – Discover Ninh Binh Up Close Walking is a great way to experience slow travel and explore hidden spaces. Best Walking Itineraries Around Tam Coc village and riverside paths From Trang An pier to nearby temples Through rice field trails in small local villages Ideal for photography lovers and cultural explorers. Renting a Motorbike – For the Adventurous Traveler Creating the perfect itinerary in Ninh Binh often means combining different transport options to balance convenience, cost, and experience. Here’s a suggested plan to help you make the most of your day: Sample day itinerary: Morning: Explore the countryside by cycling around Tam Coc, enjoying the peaceful rice paddies and limestone cliffs at your own pace. Afternoon: Take a scenic boat tour in Trang An or Van Long Nature Reserve to witness caves, rivers, and unique wildlife. Evening: Return to your accommodation via taxi or Grab, relaxing after a day of adventure. Recommended combinations by traveler type: Solo travelers: Pair cycling with Grab rides for short, budget-friendly trips between attractions. Couples: Enjoy cycling in the morning and a private boat tour in the afternoon for a romantic, immersive experience. Families: Combine taxis or electric car tours with shared boat rides, ensuring comfort and ease, especially when traveling with children or elderly members. This flexible approach allows first-time visitors to mix cycling, boating, and motorized transport, tailoring the day to personal preference while maximizing sightseeing and minimizing travel stress. Mix-and-Match Transport Tips for First-Time Visitors A perfect itinerary might include: Morning: Cycle through the scenic Tam Coc countryside, enjoying rice paddies, limestone cliffs, and quiet village roads. Afternoon: Take a boat tour in Trang An or Van Long Nature Reserve to explore caves, rivers, and wildlife at a relaxed pace. Evening: Return to your accommodation via taxi or Grab, resting after a full day of sightseeing. Best combinations by traveler type: Solo travelers: Use Grab for quick transfers and cycling to experience the countryside independently. Couples: Pair morning cycling with a private boat tour in the afternoon for a romantic, immersive experience. Families: Opt for taxis or electric car tours and shared boat rides, making it comfortable and convenient for all ages. Budgeting Your Transport – Costs Compared TransportEstimated costBest forTaxi80,000-350,000 VNDComfort & convenienceGrab30,000-200,000 VNDBudget ridesBicycle50,000-100,000 VND/dayScenic local explorationMotorbike120,000-200,000 VND/dayAdventure travelBoat ride150,000-300,000 VND/personSignature experience Money-Saving Tips Rent bikes or motorbikes for full-day flexibility Travel in groups to share taxi or boat ride costs Staying Safe and Respecting Local Etiquette Follow traffic rules and drive slowly on rural roads Be respectful and patient with drivers and rowers Avoid blocking walking and cycling paths when taking photos Wrapping Up – Best Ways to Explore Ninh Binh From cycling through peaceful rice fields to scenic boat rides and convenient taxis, Ninh Binh offers many flexible ways to explore its breathtaking landscapes. Choose transport options that match your travel style, mix and match for efficiency, and create unforgettable memories. 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