Much as we recommend soaking up the busy atmosphere in the teeming streets of Hanoi, we&rsquo;d also suggest escaping the urban jungle to experience Vietnam&rsquo;s jaw-dropping countryside. There&rsquo;s no finer place to do this than Ninh Binh, just a two-hour drive from the capital. Here, rolling rice fields, sleepy buffalo and towering cliff faces give a warm welcome to rural Vietnam. With all the key sights dotted around the countryside, we&rsquo;ve got your transport covered for the day as we tour the region with a knowledgeable guide.

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&lsquo;&lsquo;Ninh Binh is a fascinating place where, as well as &nbsp;inspiring scenery, you have easy access to the most rural and authentic side Vietnam.&rsquo;&rsquo; &ndash; Geeky Explorer

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Arriving from Hanoi by 11am, our first stop of the tour will be Vietnam&rsquo;s ancient capital, Hoa Lu. This crumbling temple complex dates backs to the 11th century and tells tales of impressive imperial dynasties. After lunch, we&rsquo;ll move onto the awe-inspiring scenery of Tam Coc. These mesmerising cliff faces spring up from the countryside and are often described as &lsquo;Ha Long Bay on land&rsquo;. We&rsquo;ll hop in rowing boats and travel down the river, through craggy caves and past towering limestone pillars.

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&lsquo;&lsquo;Tam Coc is unique because of its rural life, the rocky hills, the river and the lush greenery everywhere.&rsquo;&rsquo; &ndash; The Solo Globe Trotter

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If you were thinking the photo-worthy spots had peaked for the day, think again! Our journey continues by bicycle through the charming rural countryside to Bich Dong Pagoda. This imperial temple nestled upon a sea of lily pads is the perfect spot to up your Instagram game, or just enjoy the tranquil location. Once you&rsquo;re finished, we&rsquo;ll return to Hanoi by air-conditioned minibus.

Vietnam

Includes: Tam Coc boat ride, bike rental, lunch and all entrance fees.

Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Boat Tour - Full Day

Much as we recommend soaking up the busy atmosphere in the teeming streets of Hanoi, we’d also suggest escaping the urban jungle to experience Vietnam’s jaw-dropping countryside. There’s no finer plac