Hanoi in 1 Day for Friends - Visit Hoa Lư, Vietnam's 10th–11th century ancient capital
In Collaboration with Aloha Vietnam Travel Company Limited. Updated on February 15, 2026.
Full-day small-group tour from Hanoi Old Quarter to Ninh Binh visiting Hoa Lư ancient capital, Mua Cave (500-step climb), a boat trip on the Ngo Dong River at Tam Coc (through three caves), and a short cycle to Bich Dong Pagoda. Includes authentic homestay set-menu lunch, air-conditioned limousine van transport, professional English-speaking guide, bottled water, conical hats, and a farewell drink
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Aloha Vietnam Travel Company Limited, inspired by the tour Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit Hoa Lư, Vietnam's 10th–11th century ancient capital
- Climb Mua Cave for panoramic views across Tam Coc rice fields (≈500 steps)
- Scenic Tam Coc boat ride through three limestone caves on the Ngo Dong River
- Cycle to Bich Dong Pagoda and explore the cave-temple complex
- Authentic homestay set-menu lunch next to the river; small-group limousine transport
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet in Hanoi Old Quarter for hotel pickup between 07:00–07:30; depart Hanoi by air-conditioned limousine van. Full-day loop visiting Hoa Lư, Mua Cave (Hang Mua), Tam Coc boat trip with homestay lunch, and Bich Dong Pagoda. Return to Hanoi Old Quarter at the end of the day; farewell drink provided before final drop-off.
Hoa Lư Ancient Capital
Explore Hoa Lư, the 10th–11th century capital of Vietnam. Visit the main temple complexes and short walking circuits near the valley base that explain the Dinh and Early Le dynasties and their landscape setting.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear flat, comfortable shoes — paths at the temple complex are stone and uneven in places.
- Carry a light layer — mornings in the valley can be breezy even in May; short sheltered sections have limited seating.
- Bring small-change (coins) if you want to buy a simple offering or a cold drink from the on-site vendor.
Mua Cave (Hang Mua) — climb to the summit view
Climb the stone steps up Mua Mountain (often cited as ~500 steps) for broad panoramic views over Tam Coc rice fields and the Ngo Dong River. Time allocated includes ascent, photography stops at the viewpoint, and a safe descent.
Tips from local experts:
- Start the climb steadily — take frequent short breaks on the viewpoint landings if in a group (the steps are steep in sections).
- Bring sunscreen and a hat; the exposed ridge offers little shade during the climb and on the summit.
- Keep valuables secure and use the handrail in narrow stair sections; plan for 45–90 minutes depending on fitness and photo stops.
Tam Coc — Ngo Dong river boat trip & homestay lunch
Enjoy a traditional rowing boat trip on the Ngo Dong River through the three caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba). After the boat, transfer to the included homestay by the river for an authentic set-menu lunch prepared locally. The tour provides bottled water, conical hats, and a guide during the boat and lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a small waterproof bag or ziplock for your phone/camera while on the boat; river spray and low cave ceilings can be wet.
- Tipping the boat rower is customary but not included — have small notes of local currency ready.
- If you prefer not to cycle later, notify the guide at lunch; the van can accommodate those who choose not to cycle.
Bich Dong Pagoda — cycle from Tam Coc and explore
A short guided cycle from the Tam Coc area brings you to Bich Dong Pagoda, a multi-level 15th-century pagoda built into limestone slopes. Spend time exploring the lower, middle and upper pagodas and the cave interiors accessed by stone steps. Cycling is included; guests who prefer not to cycle will use the van instead.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the provided bike helmet if you choose to cycle; roads are local and can have light traffic — ride single-file in groups.
- Wear shoes suitable for both cycling and a short climb — the pagoda interior includes steps and uneven cave floors.
- Respect temple etiquette: remove hats inside shrines, speak quietly, and avoid flash photography where signs request it.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Culture, Outdoor, Experience |
