Tràng An, located in Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam, is a breathtaking complex of limestone karst landscapes and caves, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on Land," Tràng An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features an intricate network of rivers, lush valleys, and towering limestone cliffs. Visitors can explore the area's many caves and grottoes by boat, witnessing the tranquil beauty of the emerald waters and the vibrant green vegetation that surrounds them. In addition to its natural wonders, Tràng An is home to numerous historical and cultural sites, including ancient temples, pagodas, and relics that offer a glimpse into Vietnam's fascinating past. This enchanting destination is a must-visit for those seeking to experience the harmonious blend of nature and history.

     Here is a detailed itinerary for a 3-day, 2-night self-guided tour from Hanoi to Trang An, including transportation options, boat schedules, and estimated costs.

1. Day 1: Hanoi - Ninh Binh

+ 06:00 - 06:30: Departure from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.

- Transport: Take a bus from My Dinh or Giap Bat bus station. Recommended bus operators: Kim Chi, Cuong Hung, or Trang An Limousine.

- Cost: Bus tickets range from VND 100,000 - 150,000 per person, while limousine services cost around VND 200,000 - 300,000 per person.

- Travel Time: Approximately 2 - 2.5 hours.

+ 09:00 - 09:30: Arrive in Ninh Binh and check in at your hotel/homestay.

- Accommodation Suggestions: Tam Coc Garden Resort, Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel, Chez Beo Homestay.

- Cost: Around VND 500,000 - 1,500,000 per night, depending on the room type.

+ 10:00 - 12:00: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda.

- Transport: Rent a motorbike or take a taxi from your hotel.

- Motorbike Rental Cost: Around VND 120,000 - 150,000 per day.

- Entrance Fee: Around VND 30,000 - 50,000 per person (additional cost for electric car service if used).

+ 12:30 - 14:00: Lunch at a local restaurant (e.g., Thang Long Restaurant, Dung Manh).

- Cost: Around VND 100,000 - 200,000 per person.

+ 14:30 - 17:00: Explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

- Boat Trip: Buy tickets at Trang An boat dock.

- Boat Ticket Cost: VND 250,000 per person (approximately 2-3 hours of sightseeing).

- Attractions: Trinh Temple, Nau Ruou Cave, Suoi Tien Temple, Kong movie set.

+ 18:30: Dinner in Ninh Binh.

- Restaurant Suggestions: Chookie’s Beer Garden, Cuc Phuong Restaurant.

+ 20:00: Return to the hotel to rest.

2. Day 2: Discover Hang Mua and Tam Coc - Bich Dong

+ 07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast at the hotel.

+ 08:30 - 10:30: Visit Hang Mua (Mua Cave).

- Transport: Motorbike or taxi from the hotel.

- Entrance Fee: VND 100,000 per person.

- Activity: Climb to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain for a panoramic view of Ninh Binh.

+ 11:00 - 12:30: Visit Tam Coc - Bich Dong.

- Boat Trip: Buy tickets at Tam Coc boat dock.

- Boat Ticket Cost: VND 150,000 per person (approximately 2 hours).

- Attractions: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba (Three Caves).

+ 13:00 - 14:00: Lunch at a local restaurant.

+ 14:30 - 17:00: Visit Bich Dong Pagoda.

- Entrance Fee: Free.

- Activity: Explore the pagoda and discover the cave.

+ 18:00: Dinner and stroll around Ninh Binh city center.

- Restaurant Suggestions: Lac Hong Restaurant, Ba Cua Restaurant.

+ 20:00: Return to the hotel to rest.

3. Day 3: Ninh Binh - Hanoi

+ 07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast and check out of the hotel.

+ 08:30 - 10:30: Visit Cuc Phuong National Park.

- Transport: Rent a motorbike or take a taxi.

- Entrance Fee: VND 60,000 per person.

- Activities: Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, explore the ancient forest.

+ 11:30 - 12:30: Lunch at a local restaurant near Cuc Phuong National Park.

+ 13:00 - 14:00: Depart for Hanoi.

- Transport: Bus or Limousine.

- Cost: VND 100,000 - 300,000 per person depending on the type of bus.

+ 16:00: Arrive in Hanoi, end of the trip.

Estimated Total Costs:

+ Transportation (bus, Limousine): VND 400,000 - 600,000 per person.

+ Accommodation (2 nights in hotel/homestay): VND 1,000,000 - 3,000,000 per room.

+ Meals (6 meals): VND 1,200,000 - 1,800,000 per person.

+ Entrance Fees (Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, Hang Mua, Tam Coc, Cuc Phuong National Park): VND 700,000 - 900,000 per person.

+ Motorbike/Taxi Rental (if needed): VND 300,000 - 500,000 per person.

Notes:

+ It is advisable to book bus tickets and hotels in advance to secure your spot.

+ Bring personal items, comfortable shoes for walking, and sunscreen for sun protection.

     We hope this itinerary helps you have an enjoyable trip!