How to Get Around Ninh Bình: Transport Options and Prices

The best way to get around Ninh Bình is by renting a bicycle for flat, short distances or hiring a private car for longer trips. Ninh Bình's main attractions are spread across several districts, making walking between them impossible. For example, Tam Cốc is about 6 kilometers from Ninh Bình city center, while Tràng An is 7 kilometers away. Most travelers stay in Tam Cốc or Tràng An and use two-wheeled transport to reach nearby temples and valleys. If you travel with family or during the hot summer months, a private car offers air-conditioned comfort. Roads are generally flat and well-paved, but you must watch for heavy trucks on the main highways.

Renting a bicycle is ideal for exploring the flat countryside paths around Tam Cốc. Bicycle rentals start from $2 (approximate) per day, often available directly at your homestay. For longer distances, such as riding to Chùa Bái Đính or Hoa Lư, a motorbike is more efficient. Motorbike rentals cost from $6 (approximate) per day, excluding fuel. You can find rental shops along Trần Hưng Đạo street in Ninh Bình city or near the Tam Cốc boat pier. Always check the brakes and wear a helmet. Vietnamese law requires a valid international driving permit to ride motorbikes legally.

For maximum comfort, hiring a private car for a full day is highly recommended. Private car charters start from $35 (approximate) per day, covering major sights like Tràng An, Tam Cốc, and Mua Cave. This option keeps you cool and safe from unpredictable weather. For shorter, single trips, local metered taxis are widely available. Reliable taxi brands include Mai Linh and Taxi Ninh Bình. A short ride between Ninh Bình railway station and Tam Cốc costs from $5 (approximate). You can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab, though driver availability is lower than in Hà Nội.

Waterway transport is the only way to experience the limestone valleys of Tràng An and Tam Cốc. These boat tours are strictly regulated by local authorities with fixed ticket prices. At Tràng An, a shared rowboat ticket costs from $10 (approximate) per person, with four passengers per boat. The journey lasts about two to three hours. In Tam Cốc, the route is shorter, lasting about 1.5 hours, with two passengers per boat. Tipping the local rowers is customary but not mandatory; a tip of $2 to $5 is highly appreciated for their hard physical labor.