How to Get to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Ninh Binh’s Historic Gem & Eco-Tours with Legend Travel Group

Ninh Binh Province, 90 km southeast of Hanoi in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, is famed for its karst landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and rich history, earning the nickname “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh was Vietnam’s first capital in the 10th century. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, located in Hoa Lu Ward (formerly Hoa Lu District), 12 km from Ninh Binh City, is a national relic complex and a core zone of the Trang An UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the capital from 968 to 1010 under the Dinh, Early Le, and Ly dynasties, it features Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh temples, attracting over 40,000 visitors annually. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Hoa Lu, bookable via links around this guide. Plan your historic journey—reserve your tour today!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam and Southeast Asia experiences with expert English-speaking guides, eco-conscious practices, and tailored itineraries. Our Ninh Binh tours combine Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with eco-adventures like Trang An boat rides and local cơm cháy (crispy rice) tastings, ensuring a seamless cultural experience. Committed to sustainability, we support local communities, use low-impact transport like electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Discover our curated tours to explore Hoa Lu responsibly—book via the links on this page!

Situated in Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu Ward, Ninh Binh Province, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital spans 300 hectares and was Vietnam’s political and military hub from 968 to 1010. Founded by Dinh Bo Linh (Dinh Tien Hoang), it unified Vietnam after the “12 Lords Rebellion” and defended against Chinese and Cambodian invasions. The site preserves 17th-century temples, including Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, Le Dai Hanh Temple, and Nhat Tru Pagoda, alongside 678 relics like stone steles and royal artifacts. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, entry costs $1.50 (37,500 VND) per adult. Its limestone karst backdrop, Hoang Long River, and proximity to Ma Yen Mountain make it a historic and scenic treasure.

Administrative Update

Ninh Binh Province has merged with former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, with Ninh Binh City as its administrative center. District-level units, like Hoa Lu District, are now wards or communes (e.g., Hoa Lu Ward). This change does not impact tourism, and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital retains its identity in Hoa Lu Ward. Ninh Binh aims to become Hoa Lu City, a “Millennium Heritage Urban Area,” enhancing its cultural tourism appeal.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is easily accessible from Hanoi, Ninh Binh City, and nearby attractions, with multiple transport options tailored to different budgets and preferences. Below are detailed travel methods, costs, and tips:

From Hanoi (90 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is the primary gateway to Ninh Binh, with Hoa Lu just a short trip from Ninh Binh City.

• Bus:

  • Cost: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) per person, one-way.

  • Details: Buses depart every 30 minutes (5:00 AM–11:00 PM) from Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations, taking 1.5–2 hours to Ninh Binh City. Operators include Hieu Vien, Trang An Limousine, and Minh Long Limousine. From Ninh Binh’s bus station, take a taxi ($4–$6, 15 minutes) to Hoa Lu.

  • Tip: Book tickets via Baolau.com for convenience; bring snacks for the ride.

  • Sustainability: Choose reputable operators with modern, fuel-efficient buses to reduce emissions.

• Train:

  • Cost: $5–$9 (125,000–225,000 VND) per person, one-way.

  • Details: Trains (SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE19) depart Hanoi Railway Station, taking 2 hours to Ninh Binh Station. From there, a taxi ($4–$6, 15 minutes) reaches Hoa Lu. Check schedules on dsvn.vn.

  • Tip: Opt for soft-seat or sleeper cabins for comfort; book tickets 1–2 days ahead.

  • Sustainability: Trains are an eco-friendly option with lower carbon footprints than cars.

• Private Car/Taxi:

  • Cost: $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) one-way.

  • Details: A private car or taxi takes 1.5 hours via the Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway (CT01). Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Xanh SM (electric taxis) are available.

  • Tip: Ideal for groups or families; confirm fares in advance to avoid overcharges.

  • Sustainability: Choose Xanh SM’s electric vehicles for a greener journey.

• Motorbike:

  • Cost: $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND) for rentals, plus fuel (~$5).

  • Details: The 2–2.5-hour ride follows National Highway 1A. Rentals are available in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

  • Tip: Ensure a valid license and helmet; avoid rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM). Watch for “free parking” scams near Hoa Lu, as motorbikes are permitted on-site.

  • Sustainability: Use fuel-efficient bikes to minimize environmental impact.

• Guided Tour with Legend Travel Group:

  • Cost: $75–$175/person (depending on tour package).

  • Details: Our eco-friendly tours include round-trip transfers from Hanoi in air-conditioned vehicles, often combining Hoa Lu with Trang An or Tam Coc. Tours feature English-speaking guides and local meals.

  • Tip: Book 2–3 weeks ahead for dry season; ideal for hassle-free travel.

  • Sustainability: Our tours use low-emission vehicles and support local communities.

From Ninh Binh City (12 km, ~15–40 minutes)

Ninh Binh City is the closest hub to Hoa Lu, offering quick and affordable options.

• Motorbike:

  • Cost: $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND) for rentals, plus minimal fuel.

  • Details: A 20–25-minute ride via QL1A north to Truong Yen Commune. Rentals are available at hotels like Ninh Binh Legend Hotel.

  • Tip: Follow signs to Hoa Lu; use offline maps like Maps.me for navigation.

  • Sustainability: Opt for newer, fuel-efficient models.

• Bicycle:

  • Cost: $1.50–$2.50/day (37,500–62,500 VND).

  • Details: A 30–40-minute scenic ride through rural roads, ideal for eco-conscious travelers. Rentals are common in Ninh Binh City or Tam Coc.

  • Tip: Start early to avoid heat; bring water and a hat.

  • Sustainability: Cycling is a zero-emission, eco-friendly option.

• Taxi/Grab:

  • Cost: $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) one-way.

  • Details: A 15-minute ride from Ninh Binh City center. Xanh SM offers electric taxis.

  • Tip: Use Grab for transparent pricing; confirm drop-off at Hoa Lu’s entrance.

  • Sustainability: Electric taxis reduce carbon emissions.

• Guided Tour with Legend Travel Group:

  • Cost: $75–$95/person for half-day tours.

  • Details: Includes transfers from Ninh Binh City, guided temple visits, and optional cycling.

  • Tip: Perfect for short stays; book via our website for group discounts.

  • Sustainability: Supports local guides and eco-friendly transport.

From Tam Coc (10 km, ~10–30 minutes)

Tam Coc, a popular Ninh Binh base, is just a short trip from Hoa Lu.

• Bicycle:

  • Cost: $1.50–$2.50/day (37,500–62,500 VND).

  • Details: A 25–30-minute ride through picturesque rice fields. Rentals are widely available in Tam Coc.

  • Tip: Follow rural roads to Truong Yen; avoid midday heat.

  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly and immersive.

• Motorbike:

  • Cost: $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND).

  • Details: A 15–20-minute ride via local roads.

  • Tip: Watch for livestock on roads; use Google Maps offline.

  • Sustainability: Choose efficient bikes.

• Taxi/Grab:

  • Cost: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) one-way.

  • Details: A 10-minute ride, easily booked via Grab or local taxis.

  • Tip: Ideal for quick trips; confirm fares upfront.

  • Sustainability: Opt for electric options like Xanh SM.

From Hue (~600 km, ~12–14 hours)

While less common, travelers from Hue can reach Hoa Lu via Ninh Binh City.

• Train:

  • Cost: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND) one-way.

  • Details: Overnight trains (SE1, SE3) from Hue to Ninh Binh Station take 12–13 hours. From Ninh Binh, take a taxi ($4–$6) to Hoa Lu.

  • Tip: Book sleeper berths for comfort; check dsvn.vn for schedules.

  • Sustainability: Trains are eco-friendly for long distances.

• Bus:

  • Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) one-way.

  • Details: Sleeper buses from Hue to Ninh Binh take 12–14 hours. From Ninh Binh, a taxi ($4–$6) reaches Hoa Lu.

  • Tip: Book via Baolau.com; bring earplugs for overnight travel.

  • Sustainability: Choose operators with modern buses.

• Private Car:

  • Cost: $150–$200 (3,750,000–5,000,000 VND) one-way.

  • Details: A 12-hour drive, best for groups or luxury travelers.

  • Tip: Arrange through hotels or tour operators; plan rest stops.

  • Sustainability: Share with a group to reduce per-person emissions.

• Guided Tour with Legend Travel Group:

  • Cost: $380–$600/person for multi-day tours from Hue.

  • Details: Includes transfers, Hoa Lu visits, and stops at Hue, Hoi An, and Hanoi.

  • Tip: Ideal for comprehensive Vietnam tours; book early for availability.

  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly transport and local engagement.

• Entrance Fee: $1.50/adult (37,500 VND); children under 15 $0.75 (18,750 VND); free for children under 6 and disabled individuals.

• Transport (Round-Trip from Hanoi):

  • Bus: $10–$14 (250,000–350,000 VND) + $8–$12 taxi.

  • Train: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND) + $8–$12 taxi.

  • Private Car/Taxi: $70–$110 (1,750,000–2,750,000 VND).

  • Motorbike: $7–$12 rental + $10 fuel.

  • Guided Tour: $75–$175 (1,875,000–4,375,000 VND).

• Dining Nearby: Meals at local eateries (e.g., Truong An Restaurant, 1 km) $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4. Try mountain goat or cơm cháy.

• Accommodation (Ninh Binh City or Tam Coc): Budget homestays $18–$50/night; mid-range hotels $50–$120; luxury resorts $120–$300.

• Total Daily Cost: $18–$90 (budget: $18–$35; mid-range: $35–$60; luxury: $60–$90).

• Tip: Use VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank, Agribank). Book tours for eco-friendly transfers.

• Plan Ahead: Book transport and tours 2–3 weeks in advance for dry season (November–April) via Legend Travel Group, Baolau.com, or IZITOUR (+84 382 536 266). Same-day visits work in rainy season (May–September). Confirm hours (7:00 AM–6:00 PM).

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Dry Season (November–April): Cool (15–25°C), ideal for temple tours and Ma Yen Mountain climbs. The Truong Yen Festival (8th–10th lunar March) is vibrant; book early for December–February.

  • Shoulder Season (April, October): Mild (20–30°C), fewer crowds, 15–25% cheaper.

  • Rainy Season (May–September): Hot (25–35°C), with showers; budget-friendly with 25–40% discounts. Morning visits avoid rain.

• Dress Code: Wear modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders); remove shoes in temples. Cover cloths provided for shorts.

• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, sturdy shoes for Ma Yen’s 265 steps; reusable water bottle; raincoat for rainy season; camera (no flash in temples).

• Navigation: Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) or Google Maps; follow Hoa Lu Ancient Capital signs from QL1A.

• Avoid Scams: Beware of “free parking” scams near Hoa Lu’s entrance; motorbikes are allowed on-site. Negotiate bike taxi fares upfront (e.g., $3–$5 for a short tour).

• Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; avoid touching carvings; choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles or electric taxis. Our tours support Ninh Binh’s green goals.

• Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in worship areas; ask permission before photographing rituals; offer incense respectfully. Tip guides ($1–$5, 25,000–125,000 VND) for excellent service.

• Combine Visits: Pair with Trang An (4.5 km, $9–$12 boat tour), Tam Coc (10 km, $7 boat tour), or Bai Dinh Pagoda (15 km, free) for a full day.

Our eco-friendly tours make reaching Hoa Lu seamless, combining history with Ninh Binh’s natural beauty:

• Hoa Lu Cultural Tour ($75–$95/person): Includes transfers from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, Dinh and Le temple visits ($1.50 entry), and lunch at Truong An Restaurant ($3–$15).

• Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Features Hoa Lu, Trang An boat tour ($9–$12), and Hang Mua viewpoint ($5). Includes meals and eco-friendly transfers.

• Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95/person): Combines Hoa Lu, cycling in Truong Yen ($2.50 bike rental), and Nhat Tru Pagoda (free). Includes transfers and lunch.

• Ninh Binh Foodie & History Combo ($100–$140/person): Enjoy thịt dê and cơm cháy ($3–$15), Hoa Lu, and Tam Coc ($7 boat tour). Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Covers Hoa Lu, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), and homestay stays ($18–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, and eco-friendly transfers.

Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via the links around this page!

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, in Hoa Lu Ward, Ninh Binh Province, 90 km from Hanoi, offers a captivating journey into Vietnam’s first capital (968–1009 AD), where Dinh and Le dynasty temples, ancient fortresses, and Ma Yen Mountain tell tales of a unified nation, drawing thousands yearly. Accessible from Hanoi (2h by car, $30–$50, 750,000–1,250,000 VND), Ninh Binh City (15m by taxi, $5–$10, 125,000–250,000 VND), or Tam Coc (20m by bike, $2–$5/day, 50,000–125,000 VND), it’s a must-visit for history lovers. Supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly transport and community-led preservation, Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours ensure a hassle-free, immersive Ninh Binh Travel experience, blending Hoa Lu with UNESCO sites like Trang An ($8 boat ride, 200,000 VND), Tam Coc, and culinary delights like cơm cháy ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Vietnam’s historic heart in Hoa Lu? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and uncover Ninh Binh’s ancient legacy!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, discoverninhbinh.com, tripadvisor.com