We will be arriving in Hanoi toward the end of October, and are currently planning a single-day excursion to Ninh Binh with our two children. Which location would be the better choice for us: Trang An or Tam Coc? Also, what would be the perfect schedule for the day trip—should we skip the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital entirely? Lastly, are there any reliable places near these sites where we can find vegetarian food options?
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Normally all three are included in most organised tour packages being offered online. Tam Coq is more fun for adults. Kids may enjoy the Trang An although it’s much hyped. The coconut boat ride is just about 20-25 mins and will provide multiple additional options to spend 😀
Ninh Binh may be entirely avoided.
If travelling with kids, Bana Hill amusement park may be the best option to spend 1 or 2 days
I actually just watched a YouTube video posted by “wanderlost”. Check it out, they explained so well the two boat rides and the differences. I plan on doing both but it is super helpful for someone having to decide between the two.
Replying to Cynthia8889
Cynthia8889 – thank you so much for recommending the Wanderlost YouTube video. That was perfect to help me decide. I went on to watch some other comparison videos but none showed you both options as clearly. I really appreciate you sharing.
The Hang Mua views are spectacular! You can take your time going up. There are view/lookout points along the way.
Also, you can see the Tam Coc boat route down below.
Both Trang An + Tam Coc boat rides are World Heritage Sites and managed by the same company.
With 2 kids some things to consider: Trang An boat rides are longer (about 2.5 hours) out in the sun.
There are lots of restaurants very close to Tam Coc boat dock and not much near Trang An.
Hoa Lu TA Reviews https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g303945-d11094481-r889441947-Hoa_Lu_Temple-Ninh_Binh_Ninh_Binh_Province.html
I would skip it. But,read the reviews for yourself.
I had a Vegetarian meal at Father Cooking near the Tam Coc boat dock
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g12866457-d6780989-r889487680-Father_Cooking_Restaurant-Ninh_Hai_Hoa_Lu_District_Ninh_Binh_Province.html
Replying to ctm7944
CTM – if travelling without children, couple in 50s would you recommend Trang An or Tam Coc???? Thank you