Where to stay in Ninh Binh Vietnam
In this post, we’ll share our recommendations on the best areas to stay in Ninh Binh, explain the types of accommodations, and show you the best homestays and hotels so you can find the perfect place to stay in Ninh Binh Vietnam for your own trip.
Finding the Best Places to Stay in Ninh Binh
When it comes to choosing where to stay, Ninh Binh offers a variety of options for your preferences and budget, from small homestays in town to luxurious resorts in the countryside.
To help you make your choice of Ninh Binh accommodations, we researched and personally visited the homestays and hotels in this post.
Next, we share the popular areas to stay and the types of accommodations available so you can understand the pros and cons when making your choice of where to stay in Ninh Binh.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you decide to book a stay through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Photos and opinions in this post are our own.
Quick Links: Where to Stay in Ninh Binh Vietnam
Top value for sightseeing: Tam Coc Mountain Lake Homestay
Best splurge resort: Tam Coc Garden Resort
Best mid-budget retreat: Hang Mua Eco Garden
About Ninh Binh Vietnam
Just a 2-hour journey south from Hanoi lies the province and city of Ninh Binh. The area’s UNESCO World Heritage site is often hailed as the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its spectacular limestone karsts and mystical caves, which are accessible by boat.
A less-crowded alternative to Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh is known for its natural beauty as well as historical and religious significance.
I always say that Ninh Binh is an ideal destination to explore by bicycle, which is why we wrote a guide about it!
Read next: Budget Guide and Map to See Ninh Binh by Bicycle
While it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Hanoi, it’s worthwhile to add an overnight stay in Ninh Binh to your Vietnam itinerary.
Best Areas to Stay in Ninh Binh
Given that the natural wonders and attractions of Ninh Binh are primarily located outside the urban center, we do NOT recommend staying in the city of Ninh Binh itself.
1. Tam Coc
Tam Coc is often a top choice for first-time travelers. It’s an excellent spot for those who prefer convenience alongside natural beauty.
In the small town of Tam Coc, you can easily walk to shops, local restaurants, and some of Ninh Binh’s famous sites like the Tam Coc boat ride. It’s not a particularly charming town, however, and you may get more noise from the street and late-night karaoke escapades.
Pros of staying in Tam Coc:
- Proximity to boat tours and other attractions.
- Variety of dining and shopping options within walking distance.
Cons:
- Can be more crowded and noisy compared to being out in the countryside.
2. Rural Areas near Hang Mua and Trang An
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the tranquility of nature, staying near Hang Mua and Trang An is a better place to retreat.
These smaller villages and countryside locations are ideal for visitors who don’t mind being a bit removed from amenities and prefer waking up to scenic landscapes right at their doorstep.
Pros of staying near Hang Mua / Trang An:
- Closer to nature, often with scenic views right from your window.
- Quieter surroundings with fewer tourists.
- Ideal for retreats and relaxation.
Cons:
- Fewer restaurants and shops within easy reach, which could mean more time and money to eat out.
- May require renting a bike or taxi to get around each day.
Types of Accommodation in Ninh Binh
Understanding the various accommodation options available in Ninh Binh will help you make the best choice, based on your comfort preferences and travel style.
1. Homestays in Ninh Binh
Homestays in Ninh Binh are smaller accommodations with fewer than five guest rooms, typically. The term “homestay” suggests a family-run experience, but this isn’t always the case in Vietnam.
While some homestays are indeed managed by families living on the property, others may be run by employees. You can often tell from reviews the type of interaction they might have with guests.
Pros of Ninh Binh homestays:
- Potential for a more personal and authentic cultural experience when managed directly by the family.
- Usually more economical.
Cons:
- The level of comfort and privacy can vary, depending on the management and structure of the homestay.
2. Villas in Ninh Binh
With 6 to 20 rooms, villas are a step up in size from homestays in Vietnam. They range from budget-friendly to boutique and provide a more intimate setting than larger hotels.
There aren’t a lot of typical, self-catering vacation rentals in Ninh Binh. You can sometimes find apartment rentals and entire guest houses for rent, but they may be part of a homestay or villa complex.
3. Hotels in Ninh Binh
Hotels in Ninh Binh generally have more than 20 rooms. Often more standardized, they tend to provide comfort and convenience over cultural exchange. I’m not aware of any international chain hotels in Ninh Binh.
What we think of as hotels in the North America could also be called Homestays or Villas in Vietnam, depending on the size.
4. Hostels
For budget travelers, hostels tend to provide cheap dorm beds with shared or private bathrooms. Because of the labeling system in Vietnam, homestays, villas, and hotels could also have options hostel-style dorm rooms.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly.
- Often include communal amenities like kitchens and social spaces.
Cons:
- Can lack privacy and be more noisy from other guests.
5. Resorts in Ninh Binh
There are a small number of resorts in Ninh Binh, some more luxurious than others. As we’ve found elsewhere in Vietnam, sometimes all it takes is adding spa services to call it a “resort”.
For higher-end amenities, top quality service, and stunning private villas, you do pay significantly more than the average accommodation in Vietnam. But if you’re looking to splurge, read on to see the top rated resorts.
Pros:
- Luxury service, amenities, rooms, and views
Cons:
- Higher price
Best Accommodation in Ninh Binh
Next, we’ll show you the top rated accommodations that we hand-picked and visited ourselves.
Tam Coc Mountain Lake Homestay – Best Value & Location
If it’s your first visit to Ninh Binh and you’re planning a lot of sightseeing, I highly recommend staying on Tam Coc Lake at a locally-owned homestay like this one.
Tam Coc Mountain Lake Homestay has one of the most convenient locations to see Ninh Binh. It’s close to the Tam Coc boat ride and in walking distance to the greatest concentration of restaurants, while still removed from the noisy main street.
There are 10 rooms here, most with two beds. A few rooms in the small, main building have terraces overlooking the pool. Others are more bungalow-style in the back with a garden-like setting.
Their rooms come with air conditioning, private bathrooms, soundproofing, private entrances, electric kettle, and free WiFi. The homestay is equipped with an on-site restaurant where included breakfasts are served. They also provide bicycle rentals.
This property is particularly family-friendly, with a playground, family-size suites and bungalows, and a delightful outdoor swimming pool.
Guests say:
“We had a wonderful time at the homestay. We were very well looked after by the owners and family. Perfect location and access to everything. It was pleasing to not to be near the karaoke bars at night as they are loud and we could sleep soundly.”
- Location: 5/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Local Experience: 4.5/5
- Cost: $
Check price and availability for Tam Coc Mountain Lake Homestay >>
Tam Coc Moonlight Bungalow – Cheap, Central Stay
Tam Coc Moonlight Bungalow has a central setting in town, close to Tam Coc boat dock, with budget-friendly prices.
This accommodation features a garden, bar, and sun terrace with an outdoor fireplace. Guests benefit from practical services like a 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, airport transfers, baby-sitting services, and a shared kitchen.
Their bungalow-style rooms have air conditioning, private bathrooms, and mosquito nets. Room options include triple rooms, family rooms, and double bungalows, with or without breakfast included.
The on-site restaurant serves meals throughout the day—dinner, lunch, brunch, and high tea. Bike and car hire are available.
Guests say:
“Super nice and sweet staff, cozy atmosphere, very clean and comfortable, very good breakfast for a cheap price, generally good location (just a bit loud in the night since it’s close to many karaoke bars). Would definitely go there again!”
- Location: 4/5
- Amenities: 4/5
- Local Experience: 4.5/5
- Cost: $
Check price and availability for Tam Coc Moonlight Bungalow >>
Hang Mua Eco Garden – Tranquil Retreat
Hang Mua Eco Garden is a place to escape in the rural landscapes of Ninh Binh. Positioned uniquely with a large karst rock face backdrop and bungalows situated around a small pond, this property ensures a memorable and peaceful stay.
Guests enjoy modern conveniences coupled with a secluded location. Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, bar and a restaurant that serves Vietnamese cuisine.
There are no other restaurants nearby and the road is partially unpaved, so if staying here, plan to eat on-site or be prepared to figure out transportation into neighboring communities. Fortunately, the restaurant has been praised for its freshly cooked dinner offerings at very reasonable prices.
Guests say:
“The property is everything you need for a quiet getaway. The host is very friendly and helpful. Water is for free all the time and breakfast is included. Additionally, freshly cooked dinner for a very good price is available.”
- Location: 4/5
- Amenities: 4.5/5
- Local Experience: 4.5/5
- Cost: $$
Check price and availability for Hang Mua Eco Garden >>
Trang An Aroma – Scenic Getaway
Trang An Aroma Homestay is another great rural retreat setting. With mountain views and picturesque pool, set against the dramatic backdrop of a nearby rock face, it’s ideal for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.
This remote accommodation provides guests with free bikes, which will come in handy since there aren’t many amenities in walking distance.
The rooms come with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, refrigerators, electric tea pots, and spacious bathrooms with bidets and free toiletries.
Dining is possible on-site with their restaurant and a bar. Guests have noted that the food at the homestay is both more delicious and cheaper than that found at Ninh Binh restaurants.
Guests say:
“The rooms are beautiful, very clean modern, and the bathroom has no smell at all. The water pressure is very strong with a great hot water tank. Great soft mattress and sheets all good quality. The property is perfect for a getaway…”
- Location: 4/5
- Amenities: 5/5
- Local Experience: 4/5
- Cost: $$
Check price and availability for Trang An Aroma Homestay >>
Luxury Ninh Binh Resorts
If you’re looking for a resort vacation in Ninh Binh, check out Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh and Tam Coc Garden Resort.
Both offer top quality amenities, stylish rooms, and beautiful views amidst the famous Ninh Binh landscapes.
Full disclosure, we did not visit these resorts, but they look spectacular and get rave reviews. While the luxury price is much higher than a typical Ninh Binh homestay or hotel, you may find this splurge worth it if you’re used to resort prices in other countries.
Check price and availability for Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh >>
Check price and availability for Tam Coc Garden Resort >>
More Tips for Visiting Ninh Binh
- Check out our Budget Guide and Map to See Ninh Binh by Bicycle.
- Try to make a local connection, whether it’s meeting a friend-of-a-friend you find through social media, staying with locals, or hiring a local guide.
- For more guidance, see: how to have authentic, meaningful travel experiences in touristy areas and our simple rules for intentional travel series.
- Protect your Ninh Binh trip with insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.
From serene homestays with dramatic karst backdrops to comfortable bungalows perfect for families, whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat in the countryside or convenient access to local attractions, Ninh Binh has accommodations for every traveler.
As you plan your Ninh Binh trip, we hope these handpicked places to stay will help you find the perfect place to stay in Ninh Binh for your travel goals.
Remember, the right accommodation not only provides a place to rest but also enriches your travel experience, connecting you with the local community and the natural beauty of the area. We hope you’ll enjoy Ninh Binh as much as we do!
You might also like these Vietnam posts:
– Vietnam Travel Tips & Top Destinations
– Things to Do in Hanoi Vietnam on a Budget
– What to do in Hoi An on a Budget (plus map of favorite restaurants)
– Where to Stay in Hoi An, Central Vietnam
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