Dong Hoi To Ninh Binh Travel Tips You Should Know

Traveling from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh is a chance to slow down, enjoy the quiet beauty of Vietnam’s countryside, and discover hidden wonders along the way. Whether you’re seeking peaceful landscapes, ancient sites, or a deeper connection with local life, this route offers something special. Let’s explore how to make your trip from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh smooth, meaningful, and full of memorable moments.

Is the journey from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh too far?

If you’re enjoying the peaceful and cheerful vibe of Dong Hoi but feel it’s time to move on and explore more of Vietnam, then Ninh Binh Vietnam is the perfect next destination. It offers the same laid-back charm and is surrounded by hidden natural wonders just waiting to be discovered.

The distance from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh is about 400 to 407 kilometers (roughly 253 miles). Although it might seem far, the trip is quite manageable with several convenient travel options available. 

Taking the train is the most popular choice, especially for budget travelers, as it takes around 8 to 9 hours. If you prefer comfort and privacy, you can book a private minivan for 5–10 people or rent a private car for 2–4 passengers. This route is part of many travelers’ extended adventures from places like Phong Nha to Ninh Binh, making it a well-traveled and trusted journey.

Most trips between Dong Hoi and Ninh Binh take place at night. If you opt for a sleeper train, don’t expect much scenery—but it’s a great chance to relax and catch up on rest.

For daytime travel, the scenery can be surprisingly beautiful. The journey begins with lush green landscapes and may include glimpses of national parks. Parts of the route follow the coastline, offering spectacular sea views—perfect for photography enthusiasts.

As you get closer to Ninh Binh, you’ll be welcomed by stretches of tranquil countryside, dotted with traditional houses and glowing rice fields. It’s a peaceful, scenic way to connect two unforgettable stops on your Vietnamese itinerary. For travelers planning ahead, checking out a Ninh Binh itinerary 2 days can be a helpful way to make the most of your visit.

Getting from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh

If you prefer a scenic and relaxed way to travel, taking the train from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh can be a good option. It’s an overnight journey that lets you rest while the train takes you through the peaceful countryside of Vietnam.

By train

There are several train options available between Dong Hoi and Ninh Binh, with ticket prices being fairly consistent across providers. The main differences depend on whether you choose a regular seat or a sleeper cabin. Both Vietnam Railways and private companies operate this route, offering a range of comfort levels to suit different budgets.

Vietnam Railways provides hard seats, soft seats, hard sleepers (4–6 berths per cabin), and soft sleepers (1–4 berths per cabin). These trains are fairly basic but reliable, with air-conditioning and onboard restrooms. Meals are not included, so packing your own food and drinks is strongly advised.

Private operators such as Laman Express, Damitrans Express, Halo Express, New Livitrans Express, Violette Trains, and Lotus Train run on the same route but offer upgraded services. Their cabins often feature wooden interiors, softer bedding, improved air-conditioning, and more attentive staff. You can choose 2-berth or 4-berth cabins, and if you value privacy, booking all seats in a cabin is ideal.

Fares vary by operator and cabin class. A soft seat costs about 350,000–450,000 VND, while a soft sleeper in a private cabin ranges from 700,000 to 1,100,000 VND per person.

All trains depart from Dong Hoi Railway Station in Nam Ly Ward and arrive at Ninh Binh Railway Station on Hoang Hoa Tham Street. It’s best to arrive 30 minutes before departure for a hassle-free boarding experience.

Traveling overnight is a smart way to save time and accommodation costs. If you’re heading north from central Vietnam, this option is ideal—especially if you plan to continue exploring with a Ninh Binh itinerary 5 days or extend your route from places like Da Nang to Ninh Binh.

By private minivan

For travelers heading from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh in a group, booking a private minivan offers both comfort and flexibility. It lets you travel at your own pace while sharing the journey with friends or family, making it a more social and personalized experience.

These minivans usually seat 5 to 10 passengers and are equipped with air-conditioning and cushioned seats for a smooth ride. Your driver will pick you up directly from your accommodation in Dong Hoi and drop you off at your selected destination in Ninh Binh. You also have the freedom to choose a departure time that works best for your plans.

During the trip, drivers often make stops for bathroom breaks and short rests, allowing you to stretch and recharge. Although more expensive than train travel, this option gives you full control over your schedule and route. Prices typically range from 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 VND per vehicle, depending on the number of passengers and the pickup location.

This type of travel is particularly appealing to those planning an extended trip—such as continuing from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh or adding a multi-day Ninh Binh itinerary 4 days, offering a smooth connection through central and northern Vietnam.

By private car

If you’re traveling in a smaller group of 2 to 4 people and value privacy, booking a private car is an excellent choice. While it tends to be the most expensive option, it offers a direct, quiet, and highly comfortable ride from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh.

With a private car, you have full control over your departure time and pickup location. The driver will take you straight to your preferred destination in Ninh Binh. These vehicles are typically equipped with air-conditioning, cushioned seating, and bottled water. Similar to the private minivan, the driver will make stops along the way for rest breaks or restroom use when needed.

Prices typically range from 2,500,000 to 3,500,000 VND per trip, depending on the car type and service provider. This door-to-door service is especially convenient for travelers coming from quieter towns like Mai Chau to Ninh Binh, allowing for a smooth and private transition between scenic destinations.

Some tips for traveling from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh

Before beginning your Ninh Binh itinerary from Dong Hoi, it’s worth keeping a few practical travel tips in mind to make your journey smoother and more budget-friendly.

Arrive at your departure point at least 15 minutes early. This gives you enough time to check in, find your seat, and avoid any last-minute rush—especially important when boarding a night bus or sleeper train.

If you’re traveling by road, take advantage of planned rest stops. A quick break to stretch, grab a snack, or use the restroom can make a big difference during the long 8- to 10-hour ride.

Booking a night bus is a smart move if you want to save both time and accommodation costs. These buses often have reclining seats or sleeper berths, with ticket prices typically ranging from 280,000 VND to 380,000 VND depending on the provider. It’s also a great way to arrive early and rested, ready to explore—or even continue your adventure from destinations like Da Nang to Ninh Binh.

To get the best deal, book your seat in advance. This helps secure a preferred spot and often comes with discounted fares. Some online platforms offer special promotions for new users—sometimes saving you up to 30% on your first booking.

Highlights of Ninh Binh

For many international travelers, the city of Ninh Binh is mainly a transport hub. However, if you take the time to explore, you’ll see that Ninh Binh Province has much more to offer. It is a destination of peaceful rivers, dramatic limestone mountains, and spiritual landmarks. 

Trang An Landscape Complex

The Trang An Landscape Complex is a 62-square-kilometer national park that has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The scenery here is breathtaking — tall limestone hills rise sharply from flat rice fields, with slow-moving rivers winding through the valleys and caves hidden beneath the hills.

A visit to Trang An often includes a boat ride through these partially submerged caves, especially beautiful during the dry season. The boat tours are well-organized and usually last about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the route. Ticket prices are around 250,000 VND per person. The peaceful ride takes you through green valleys and into cave tunnels that feel like another world.

One of the most well-known areas within Trang An is Tam Coc – Bich Dong, sometimes called “Ha Long Bay on land” because of its majestic karst landscape. Here too, visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides past rice paddies and limestone cliffs. 

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Ninh Binh is also home to impressive spiritual sites, and the largest of them is Bai Dinh Pagoda. This vast Buddhist complex covers over 700 hectares and features multiple large temple buildings, peaceful courtyards, and more than 500 beautifully crafted Buddha statues.

Visitors can explore both the ancient and modern parts of the pagoda, enjoy panoramic views from the top of the mountain, and learn more about Vietnam’s Buddhist traditions. Entrance to the complex is free, but there is a small fee for electric car rides (around 30,000 VND) or the elevator to the upper temple (about 50,000 VND).

Phat Diem Cathedral

Another unique attraction is Phat Diem Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church built in the late 19th century. What makes this site special is its rare mix of European and Vietnamese architectural styles. The cathedral combines traditional stone and wood elements, curved roofs, and beautiful carvings with Gothic features like stained glass windows and high ceilings.

Located about 30 km from Ninh Binh city, this cathedral is peaceful, elegant, and worth a short side trip if you are interested in history, culture, or religious architecture. There is no entrance fee to visit the cathedral, and it is usually quiet and welcoming to all visitors.

Tam Coc

Another must-see destination in Ninh Binh is Tam Coc, often called “Ha Long Bay on land” because of its spectacular karst landscape. What makes Tam Coc special is the peaceful boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, where you float between towering limestone cliffs and endless green rice fields. During the harvest season (May to early June), the golden fields create a stunning view.

Each boat is usually rowed by a local, sometimes with their feet, and the journey passes through three natural caves carved into the mountains. The boat trip lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours and costs about 150,000 VND per person, plus a small entrance fee of 120,000 VND. It’s a relaxing and scenic experience that gives you a close look at rural life in Vietnam.

Thien Ha cave

If you’re looking for something quieter and less crowded, Thien Ha cave is a hidden gem worth exploring. Located about 25 km from Ninh Binh city, this cave system is part of a tranquil landscape with mountains, rivers, and rice paddies.

The tour begins with a short boat ride along a calm river, followed by a walk into the dry cave area with impressive stalactites and stone formations. After that, visitors get back on the boat to glide through the dark, silent water cave, where the rock ceiling sparkles like a starry sky. Entrance and boat ticket combined cost around 120,000 VND per person.

FAQs about Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh

Here are helpful questions and answers to guide your trip from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh. This is full of practical tips, ticket prices, and advice to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

How often do trains run between Dong Hoi and Ninh Binh?

There are 3–4 trains daily: early morning, mid‑day, late afternoon, and evening. Book in advance, especially during holidays.

Is bus travel safe and comfortable?

Yes, buses are generally safe and quite comfortable if you choose a good company like Hoang Long or Camel Travel. Most use sleeper-style seats with air conditioning and blankets. The journey takes about 9–10 hours and costs around $12 USD. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

Can I stop midway for sightseeing?

Yes, you can stop in cities like Vinh or Thanh Hoa for a short visit. Vinh offers cultural sites like Ho Chi Minh Square, while Thanh Hoa has beautiful nature nearby, then from Vinh to Ninh Binh, Just make sure to plan your train or bus schedule carefully. Breaking the trip adds variety and helps reduce travel fatigue.

When is the best season to travel?

The ideal time to visit is from March to May or September to November. These months offer mild weather, dry conditions, and pleasant scenery—perfect for sightseeing or beginning a multi-day Ninh Binh itinerary 6 days. Summer can be hot and humid, while the rainy season may affect visibility or travel schedules. Early autumn is especially scenic, with golden rice fields and fewer crowds.

Can I store luggage at Ninh Binh station?

Yes, there are small storage services near Ninh Binh train station. Some guesthouses or cafés also offer luggage keeping for $1–$2 USD per item. It’s safe and convenient if you plan to explore before checking in. Just label your bags clearly and keep valuables with you.

Conclusion

The journey from Dong Hoi to Ninh Binh is not just about reaching a destination — it’s about everything in between. The changing views, the quiet corners, and the feeling of stepping into Vietnam’s timeless charm stay with you long after the road ends. As you arrive in Ninh Binh, take a moment to pause, breathe, and let the calm beauty around you speak in silence.