Ninh Binh and are two breathtaking destinations in the north of Vietnam. Both deliver incredible natural beauty, unique cultural experiences, and chances for outdoor activities. However, they are totally different. If you do not have time to visit both, you might find it hard to decide to come to Ninh Binh or Sapa. In this guide, we provide comprehensive information about travel time, unique natural and cultural features and the cost of a trip to each place. Hope that it is helpful for your travel planning process.
A brief overview of Ninh Binh and Sapa
Both Sapa and Ninh Binh offer breathtaking views of mountains and rice paddies. So they are favourite places for those looking for natural retreats and eco-tourism. However, they are 2 different lands.
Sapa, nestled within the Hoang Lien Son range near the Chinese border, is famous for its mountainous rolling hills covered with terraced rice fields. Sapa is home to many ethnic minority groups and is very rich in cultural values. The town, though small, is a delightful corner with traditional markets offering handcrafted, textiles, and fresh vegetables.
Meanwhile, Ninh Binh stands out with its limestone towers, peaceful rivers, and caves. This province is not only well-known for its natural beauty but also holds historical significance, once serving as the capital of ancient Vietnam during the Dinh dynasty.
Weather differences in Ninh Binh and Sapa
When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh and Sapa? Actually, Ninh Binh and Sapa bring contrasting weather experiences due to their significant difference in altitude and location. You should choose Ninh Binh if you prefer warm weather and sunshine. Or if you want cooler temperatures, or escape from the heat, Sapa is the best choice.
Here's a breakdown:
Ninh Binh Weather
Climate: Subtropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Temperature: Generally warm to hot throughout the year.
Average Highs:
- Winter (December-February): 20°C (68°F)
- Spring (March-May): 28°C (82°F)
- Summer (June-August): 34°C (93°F)
- Autumn (September-November): 29°C (84°F)
Rainfall: Most significant during the wet season (May-October), with occasional showers in the dry season.
Best time to visit: March-May and September-November for pleasant temperatures and less rain.
Ninh Binh Weather Guide: What to Expect Each Month
Sapa Weather
Climate: Temperate, with cool summers and mild winters.
Temperature: Significantly cooler than Ninh Binh.
Average Highs:
- Winter (December-February): 15°C (59°F)
- Spring (March-May): 22°C (72°F)
- Summer (June-August): 29°C (84°F)
- Autumn (September-November): 24°C (75°F)
Rainfall: More evenly distributed throughout the year, with occasional mist and fog.
Best time to visit: April-May and September-October for comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Accessibility and Transportation
How to get to Ninh Binh
- Accessibility: Easy and convenient.
- Distance from Hanoi: Ninh Binh is just a 2-hour drive or train ride from Hanoi, the capital city, making it an accessible day trip or overnight escape.
- Transportation options:
- Train: Several daily trains connect Hanoi and Ninh Binh. A budget-friendly option with prices starting around $5.
- Bus: Frequent buses between Hanoi and Ninh Binh. Ticket prices start around $3.
- Private car/taxi: 2-hour driving. The price depends on vehicle type and negotiation.
- Motorbike/Bicycle rental: Renting a motorbike or bicycle is a fantastic way to explore Ninh Binh, with prices starting at around $5 per day.
How to get to Sapa
- Accessibility: More challenging and time-consuming.
- Distance from Hanoi: Sapa is located further north in the mountains, around a 5-hour drive or overnight train journey from Hanoi.
- Transportation options:
- Train: The most popular option is the overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, followed by a short taxi ride to Sapa. Offers a budget-friendly option with prices starting around $20.
- Bus: Several day buses offer direct transportation from Hanoi to Sapa, taking approximately 5-6 hours. Prices start around $15.
- Private car/taxi: Hiring a private car is the most expensive option but offers the fastest and most comfortable journey. Expect to pay around $150-$200.
Duration of visit: Sapa & Ninh Binh
- Sapa: 3-4 days
- Ninh Binh: 1-3 days
Sapa typically requires a longer duration due to the long time to reach there and there are lots of things to explore. A standard visit to Sapa might range from 3 to 5 days to fully appreciate its stunning landscapes, engage in trekking activities, and immerse oneself in the local culture.
On the other hand, the short travel duration in Ninh Binh makes it a suitable option for those with limited time on their itinerary. You can explore Ninh Binh in just a day tour or 2 days are enough.
Natural Beauty Highlights in Ninh Binh vs Sapa
Unique landscapes in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh's most iconic feature is its dramatic karst landscape, with towering limestone cliffs jutting out of the emerald rice paddies. Explore hidden caves, boat through grottoes, and rivers to visit old temples.
Tam Coc Viewpoint: Explore Breathtaking Views of Tam Coc
Scenic wonders in Sapa
Sapa is nestled amidst the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, offering breathtaking vistas and challenging trekking trails. Hike through terraced rice fields, climb Mount Fansipan (the highest peak in Vietnam), or explore hidden waterfalls and valleys. Sapa often has misty clouds and stunning sunrises.
Cultural Experiences in Sapa Compared to Ninh Binh
Sapa is home to diverse communities like the Hmong, Dao, and Tay, each with distinct customs, clothing, and languages. Visit their traditional villages, you will be surprised about their handicrafts. Throughout the year, Sapa comes alive with colourful festivals that follow their ethnic traditions. Attend the "Love Market" in Bac Ha, where young people meet and express their feelings through song and dance.
In Ninh Binh instead of learning about ethnic people, you explore the ruins of Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam, and climb Bich Dong Pagoda, a centuries-old temple built amidst the limestone cliffs. Learn about the dynasties that ruled Vietnam and their impact on the region's culture. You can also go to pagodas like Bai Dinh, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, and observe Buddhist monks chanting prayers and conducting ceremonies. Learn about the principles of Buddhism and its role in Vietnamese culture.
Activities to do in Sapa vs Ninh Binh
Criteria | Sapa | Ninh Binh |
| Trekking |
|
|
| Boat Tours | Not applicable | Tam Coc boat tour, Trang An boat tour |
| Caves | Explore Muong Hoa Valley's caves | Visit Tam Coc caves, explore Trang An Caves and Mua Caves (worth trying) |
| Ethnic Villages | Visit ethnic minority villages | Experience rural life in Ninh Binh |
| Cycling | Mountain biking in the region | Explore the countryside on bicycles |
How to experience Ninh Binh like local people - Explore Ninh Binh in authentic ways
Cost of a Trip to Sapa vs Ninh Binh
Sapa and Ninh Binh, which one is more affordable? See the table below:
Category | Sapa | Ninh Binh |
| Transportation (from Hanoi) | ||
| * Train | $20-$180 | $5-$85 |
| * Bus | $15-$35 | $3-$15 |
| * Private car | $150-$200 | $50-$100 |
| Accommodation (per night) | ||
| * Budget homestay | $10-$20 | $10-$20 |
| * Mid-range hotel | $50-$80 | $50-$80 |
| * Luxury resort | $200+ | $200+ |
| Activities (approximate, per person) | ||
| * Trekking/Hiking | $50-$100 | $10-$20 (boat tours) |
| * Cycling | $5-$10 (bike rental) | $5-$10 (bike rental) |
| * Ethnic village visit | $10-$20 | Free (exploring pagodas) |
| * Food (per meal) | Depend | Depend |
| * Street food | $2-$5 | $2-$5 |
| * Local restaurant | $5-$10 | $5-$10 |
- Sapa might be slightly more expensive due to transportation and potential trekking costs.
- Ninh Binh offers more budget-friendly activities and exploration options.
- Both destinations have budget and luxury options, so your choices will significantly impact the final cost.
In conclusion, Ninh Binh and Sapa stand out as two mesmerizing destinations in northern Vietnam, each offering an array of incredible natural beauty, distinct cultural experiences, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Our comprehensive guide, detailing travel times, unique natural and cultural features, and trip costs for each destination, aims to assist you in making an informed decision. We hope that this information proves invaluable in shaping your travel plans and enhancing your overall experience in this captivating region.
See our offer:
Ninh Binh Best Day Tour Option:
Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi
Hoa Lu - Mua Cave - Tam Coc - Bike - Swimming with Sunset Party
Sapa Option for 2 days 1 night:
Sapa Tour 2 days 1 night by the early morning Bus (Cat Cat village- Ham Rong Mountain)
Sapa Tour 2 days 1 night by the morning early bus (Cat Cat- Lao Chai - Ta Van)
