Tour Duration: Full day (approx. 10-11 hours)
Start & End Time: 07:30 – 18:00 (depending on traffic)
Pick-up Point: Hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter
Drop-off Point: Return to hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter
ROUTE
Hanoi Old Quarter (hotel pick-up) → Quang Phu Cau Incense Village → Ninh Binh → Lunch at local restaurant → Tam Coc (Ngo Dong River boat trip) → Hoa Lu Ancient Capital → Hanoi (hotel drop-off).
OVERVIEW
This full-day tour combines cultural discovery and natural beauty, taking you from the colorful traditional craft village of Quang Phu Cau to the iconic landscapes of Ninh Binh. The journey offers a perfect balance of local life, history, scenic countryside, and breathtaking limestone karsts, ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond Hanoi.
DESCRIPTION
Begin your day with a comfortable transfer from Hanoi, heading to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village to explore Vietnam’s traditional incense-making craft. Continue south to Ninh Binh, where you’ll enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch before drifting along the peaceful Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc. The tour concludes with a visit to Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s first imperial capital, before returning to Hanoi in the late afternoon.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Quang Phu Cau Incense Village: Discover a vibrant village famous for its handcrafted incense sticks. Watch local artisans at work, learn about centuries-old traditions, and capture stunning photos among colorful incense displays.
- Scenic Drive to Ninh Binh: Enjoy views of Northern Vietnam’s countryside, rice fields, and rural villages along the way.
- Vietnamese Buffet Lunch: Savor a variety of local specialties such as fresh spring rolls, goat meat, crispy fried rice, and vegetarian dishes at a local restaurant.
- Tam Coc Boat Trip (Ngo Dong River): Relax on a traditional sampan boat as you glide through limestone karsts, rice paddies, and three natural caves in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque landscapes.
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Step back in time at Vietnam’s first imperial capital, visiting temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le and learning about the country’s early dynasties.
THINGS TO BRING
- Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Cash for personal expenses
- Raincoat or umbrella (seasonal)
WHAT YOU GET AFTER THE TOUR
- Insight into traditional Vietnamese crafts and rural life
- Knowledge of Vietnam’s ancient history and early dynasties
- A deeper appreciation of Ninh Binh’s natural landscapes
- Memorable experiences combining culture, nature, and local cuisine
NOTES FOR GUESTS
Sampan boat ride lasts approx. 1.5-2 hours; hat and sunscreen are recommended.
Moderate walking at Hoa Lu; wear comfortable shoes.
Buffet lunch includes meat and vegetarian options; special dietary requests can be accommodated if informed in advance.
Itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather and local conditions, but all core activities will be maintained.