Want to know about the best hotels in Mexico City? Was your last experience difficult? Not to worry!
I have made a list of 25 of the best hotels in Mexico City, where you can experience luxury, art, beauty, comfort, accessibility, aesthetics, and adventure.
It’s one of the most populated areas in the world, with the second-highest number of museums!
Please read the article to learn about the best hotels in Mexico City and what your budget should be for it!
Here Are The 25+ Best Hotels In Mexico City
If you visit Mexico City, you’ll want accommodation that offers the amenities you need and meets your requirements.
I have listed hotels near some of the best places in Mexico City for travelers.
For example, Coyoacan is an artsy, modern village; you must visit it. So, I will name some of the best hotels you can book to access the village.
The village offers a sense of traditional experiences.
Also, when you visit the hotels, you will notice that Mexico City is big on art and beauty, as many hotels display art such as paintings, sculptures, and more.
So you’re wondering where to stay in Mexico City?
About Mexico City
Mexico City is known for significant features such as the Frida Kahlo Museum, El Zocalo, Chapultepec Castle, Palacio Nacional, and more!
So when creating the list of best hotels, it is important to consider these attractions.
The city has historical and cultural connections through its buildings and diverse ethnicity! Visiting Mexico City can also be because you have some work or business opportunities.
I will include some hotels that are the perfect backdrop for the meeting or conference.
Best Hotels In Mexico City
The name Mexico City means “the navel of the moon,” and it has many beautiful castles, buildings, and places. It also boasts some monarchic buildings you must visit when you visit the city!
I am shortlisting the 25 best hotels in Mexico City based on their services, accommodation amenities, affordability, and accessibility.
1. Sofitel Mexico City Reforma
Want to eat and look over the sweeping panoramic vistas of Mexico City? The Sofitel Mexico City Reforma gives you just that! A Five-Star hotel, it is one of the best in the country.
As a French luxury brand, the hotel offers luxurious amenities and style, along with some of the city’s best services. They have built a strong name for themselves and offer some of the city’s most breathtaking views.
The hotel has a rooftop restaurant where you can reserve a table for lunch, enjoy an amazing breakfast, and take in beautiful city views! Rooms are $428.64 per night.
2.Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel Hotel
The location is the most convenient if you book the Sheraton Mexico City Maria Isabel Hotel, based on Paseo de la Reforma.
That way, you can easily catch an Uber or walk if your destination is nearby. On a tight budget, you can book a room for $126.74 per night!
You will get free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and a fantastic city view, including the iconic Angel of Independence.
The rooftop pool has an even better feature. When I stayed there, it was mostly empty!
You will get a healthy breakfast, a restaurant, and a coffee shop. If you are body-conscious, you need not worry. The hotel has an on-site gym!
Meeting rooms and facilities will allow you to host conferences and special events. You need to book it in advance, though!
3. Octavia Casa
The retreat has been crafted by fashion designer Roberta Maceda, who has expanded her business along with the Octavia clothing line.
You can also shop from the clothing line when you book this hotel. It is one of the best Mexico City hotels!
If you consider buying that button-up crisp shirt, this is your chance.
The home is perfect for a group holiday, with cotton-satin bedding, homeware, and other beautifully designed interiors.
The price of the beautiful home starts from $422.42, and there is delicious food and drink!
4. Le Meridien
If you are attracted to modern design and architecture, this is for you! The Le Meridien Mexico City is a Marriott property situated along Paseo de la Reforma.
The rooms are quite large, almost apartment-sized, with windows extending from floor to ceiling!
The large suites include a separate living room with a giant television set, a large sofa, a desk, and a chair! This creates a workspace for you!
You will also get free Wi-Fi. The room per night costs around$125.07.
There is an indoor swimming pool and a jacuzzi where you can relax and rejuvenate.
The hotel also has a gym downstairs, which is a great option for people who regularly work out!
The Mexican restaurant connected to the restaurant offers amazing delicacies; you must take advantage of it when you visit!
5.Casa Polanco
The Casa Polanco Hotel Boutique charges $496.80 for a room for one day, and the surroundings are so beautiful that you’ll feel like you’re in a timeless, unique space.
The staff is well aware of guests’ needs.
Most visitors to the hotel are quite sophisticated. Hence, the rooms are well-furnished.
You can access different places in Mexico City from the hotel, such as Mariano Escobedo, Paseo de las Palmas, and Paseo de la Reforma.
The hotel offers several services to enhance your stay, including free parking, free breakfast, couples massage, bicycles, a fitness center, and more.
It is one of the best places to stay in Mexico City!
6. Volga
A luxury hotel, Volga Hotel opened in June 2023 and has already made a name for itself with its urban yet soothing room experience.
The rooms feature a skylight and a sleek design.
The rooftop terrace has a music stage, cabanas, and loungers, so you can chill out or even bring your laptop and work!
A bar is in the works, based out on the terrace. Room prices start from $839.85per night!
7.Mondrian Mexico City Condesa
The Mondrian Mexico City Condesa is located at the crossroads of two of the most popular neighborhoods, Condesa and Roma.
If you want to have the most alluring views while staying in a hotel, this is the hotel you should book your room in!
The hotel has 183 rooms and 18 luxury suites! The hotel charges $169.11 for one room per night. You will get free Wi-Fi, private parking, and access to the fitness center.
8.La Valise
A luxury hotel, La Valise is a 1920s French-style townhouse situated in Roma Norte. I can assure you that it is one of the most intimate luxury hotels in Mexico City. The price of the rooms starts at $459.87 per night!
Three rooms are available in La Valise: La Terraza, La Luna Suite, and El Patio Suite. The suite called La Terraza allows the guests to sleep under the stars as well as a king-size bed.
It also includes a private terrace. The hotel is beautiful in design, aesthetics, and architecture.
You can book the hotel if you are planning on a romantic getaway! Book it fast; there are only three!
9. Casa Prim
This family-owned hotel is also a gorgeous small boutique that offers a luxurious experience.
Rooms are $115.96 per night, so if you are on a tight budget but still want to feel luxurious, this is your moment!
It is one of the city’s top hotels, with historic architecture and design. As a guest, you will experience a positive stay with thoughtful, supportive amenities.
For example, the room includes free toiletries, bathrobes, a wardrobe, and a coffee maker.
You can also access free Wi-Fi and room service in this hotel! Complimentary breakfast is included, and the location gives you easy access to Paseo de la Reforma and Roma Norte.
10. Intercontinental Presidente Mexico City
It is one of the most popular business hotels in Mexico City, where business travelers and conference attendees go!
Seminars and workshops are a major part of guests’ itineraries at the Intercontinental Presidente Mexico City!
If you book a room in this hotel, you will be charged $273.80 per night! The hotel hosts many bars and onsite restaurants! If you’re a fitness freak, you can access the spacious fitness center and health club.
The hotel is pet-friendly. Very few of those are there in Mexico, so if you are a dog or a cat lover, you know which hotel to book!
If you are lucky enough, you can get rooms that give you a view of the National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Park.
11.Zocalo Central Hotel
The terrace restaurant at Zocalo Central Hotel offers an incomparable view. If you are visiting Mexico City for a good time, you must book rooms in this hotel to enjoy lunch or a drink.
One of the best views you can access from this hotel is the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. If you book rooms at the hotel, you must pay $152.12.
Your stay will be charming, especially with kitchenettes in the rooms.
12.Barcelo Mexico Reforma
The hotel is considered one of the best hotels in Mexico City, where the starting price of the rooms is $133.02.
The hotel is located on Avenida Paseo de La Reforma and provides Wi-Fi, a fitness center, conference facilities, a business center, a bar, and others.
13. Four Seasons Mexico City
The hotel is one of the Five-star luxury hotels in Mexico City, and if you have the moolah, do not miss your chance to stay in this hotel.
It is undeniably one of the best luxury hotels in the city. Room rates start at $603 per night!
As a guest, you will enjoy comfortable suites and guest rooms for a private retreat, with free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and in-room dining, a private bar, and luxury bath products.
You will also get a rooftop outdoor pool and a fitness center!
The hotel has two restaurants: Becco, which specializes in Italian cuisine, and Pan Dulce, which serves French pastries and traditional Mexican food.
There is also a gastro bar, Fifty Mills, one of the city’s best!
If you are looking for rejuvenation, you can avail yourself of the Mexico City-type luxury spa in the hotel. Gentlemen’s Tonic is an English-style barbershop hosted by the hotel.
14.JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City
If you are a Marriott Bonvoy member and want to experience a luxurious stay, you can book JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City.
You will love the hotel; it combines modern style and classic luxury. Plus, guests can review the hotel’s features.
The hotel offers spacious rooms with all the amenities you need. Rooms are $439.08 per night and offer a spectacular view of the city.
The hotel offers attentive staff, a health club, a large pool, and fine dining options.
The hotel caters largely to business travelers, and guests can also access Polanco’s restaurants and shops.
15. Andaz Condesa
Andaz Condesa opened in January 2023, and rooms are priced at around $307 per night.
It is one of Mexico City’s beauties, with its magenta mirrored escalators and neo-lit cacti at the hotel’s entrance.
The hotelis furnishings feature blonde timbers, which contrast with the pastel velvet-covered seating and decor-esque curves.
There is a terrace where you can hang around with delicious food such as tacos and seafood.
16.Gran Hotel Ciudad De México
The hotel is very classy, with an ornate design and a beautiful interior that gives off a luxurious vibe, even at a lower price.
Room prices start at $174.09 per night. So it can be affordable if you have a set budget.
The hotel has a Tiffany stained-glass ceiling, giving a stunning feel for a Five-Star hotel, even if it isn’t one. The rooms are quite spacious and offer a beautiful view of the city!
17. Courtyard By Marriott Mexico City Airport
Courtyard By Marriott Mexico City Airport has a restaurant and fitness center and is considered one of the best hotels in the Mexico system. The hotel also provides free airport transportation.
The hotel charges $131.13 for one night. There is housekeeping, and the rooms are completely soundproof!
18. The Red Tree House
This beautiful home, with 1930s style, has been turned into a classy house decorated with art and paintings.
If you are a global traveler, this place is for you! The beautiful home has rooms of all shapes and sizes, with 22 rooms.
This boutique hotel is perfect for people who want to socialize and enjoy their social lives! With an attractive garden courtyard, the hotel is ideal for artsy guests!
You can try local dishes such as soups made of fried corn flour shells accompanied by refried beans, cheese, and onion. The room costs around $150.38 and offers a beautiful view.
19.Hostel Barrio Downtown
One of the best hostels in Mexico, Hostel Barrio Downtown is an attractive hostel for people with a low budget!
In 2022, the hotel opened with a Mexican theme, featuring decorations such as neon lights, lucha libre wrestling masks, and comic skeletons.
The price of the rooms in the hotel starts from $40.61, while you can book the room on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The hostel is quite popular among individuals who are always on the go, traveling and working, sometimes called digital nomads.
Food items such as crisp tortilla triangles with salsa and other trimmings are easy to find!
20. Durango 219
Another hotel with a cool vibe is built with pink Cantera local stone and is beautifully designed. The hotel has 12 rooms in contemporary styles, each with one signature piece, such as an unfussy sculpture or a vintage chair.
The hotel rooms are quite expensive. The color palette of the rooms is grey, beige, and neutral colors. There are balconies in the hotel, and you can access the Condesa and Roma neighborhoods.
21.Pug Seal Anatole France
Pug Seal Anatole France is ranked number 1 out of 62 special hotels. Based on 122 Tripadvisor reviews, the hotel has a rating of 5 out of 5. The hotel rooms are priced at $275.95.
The services are good, and you will get free breakfast, airport transportation, and parking.
22. H21 Hospedaje Boutique
Were you looking for something to soothe your soul in Mexico City? Please book your rooms at H21 because it’s like an oasis of calm, with the beautiful market, plaza, and Blue House of Frida Kahlo surrounding it.
The current owner’s grandfather built this hotel in 1928, and the guest rooms follow the original house plan.
The rooms vary in size and shape, offering peace and tranquility.
The walls and interior have a wonderful design in beige and grey shades. You can also see a beautiful blend of colours to create a satisfying palette.
The hotel features unique visuals, including distressed white wood and quarry stone floors.
The hotel is decorated with vintage figurines and seems inspired by photography books. The hotel’s approach is very casual and comfortable, where you can either order room service or help yourself in the kitchen.
The hotel is well known for its continental breakfast! The starting price for rooms at the hotel is $164.65.
23.Cape Pepe
It is a luxurious stay for solo travelers; rooms start at $60.07 per night, and it is considered one of the best hotels in Mexico City. It offers history, sustainability, and a sense of familiarity.
Moreover, it offers different sleeping arrangements, such as neat bunks, curtained pods, and private rooms for couples or families, all in a renovated historic building.
The hotel displays beautiful art by Mexican artists and luminaries; one of them is Jose Vasconcelos, a popular writer and philosopher.
24. Casa Tuna
The entry gate will steal your heart with traditional piñata and bougainvillea spread across the property in Coyoacan.
The surrounding beauty is unmatched; the hotel’s location is the selling point!
The Coyoacan market and Frida Kahlo’s Blue House are nearby and easy to reach from this property.
It charges $131 per night for the room, and you have to take a short taxi ride to visit the museum studio house of the Mexican mural painter Diego Rivera.
25. NaNa Vida
At $150.08 per night, this hotel offers a taste of luxury through local living.
The rooms are colorfully furnished, along with timber finishes on the furniture. Enjoy the view, and have tea, coffee, and pastries on the rooftop terrace.
There is also a popular tavern called La Nuclear that serves a traditional alcoholic beverage called pulque.
The property is stylish and lives up to the name ‘nana vida,’ which means pleasurable surprise in Zapotec, an indigenous language.
What Do We Know?
So, are you visiting Mexico City and making a list of the best hotels in Mexico City? I have already made you that!
Now all you have to do is create an itinerary so you can decide which hotel to book!
Mexico City also carries the impact of the Spanish invasion, another historical influence you will experience when you visit.
Comment down below to let us know about your expectations from the city or the purpose based on which you are visiting the city!
Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.
Want to know more about Manuel Antonio Costa Rica? Why not, given that it is one of Central America's most popular tourist destinations? Apart from the wildlife and the beaches, you have to know you will have many activities tailor-made for any vacation.
Sport-fishing, snorkeling, hiking, parasailing, surfing, and exciting nightlife are just some things you can attempt in Manuel Antonio. Read the article to learn about exploring Paradise, the tropical gem of Costa Rica.
Paradise Found: Exploring Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica's Tropical Gem!
A popular beach town, Manuel Antonio is in Central America with a beautiful collection of wildlife and scenery. The view of Manuel Antonio Costa Rica is to die for, especially if you are a nature and sky lover, as the magnificent views of the clouds, sky, and mountains across the Pacific Ocean recreate Paradise.
It is Quepos that you will be visiting if you are traveling by plane or car. There might be limited inclusive resorts in Manuel Antonio. However, boutique resorts, hotels, and villas are perfect for the rainforest hillside.
Want to learn things to do in Manuel Antonio? I will list activities you can attempt across the lush and the Pacific tropical surroundings giving you an incredible view of the beaches, mountains, and the town.
Exploring And Hiking Manuel Antonio National Park!
The main attraction, Manuel Antonio National Park, is for nature lovers. It is one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica and yet is one of the most popular due to the enormous collection of wildlife! Across the park, the Manuel Antonio beach Costa Rica is situated.
As a tourist, you can peek into the forests with its iguanas, squirrel monkeys, capuchin, howler, agoutis, and sloths. There are also varieties of birds across the national park, after which you can visit the beach.
There are guides and naturalists available while the limited number of daily visitors is 1200 per day! The park is closed on Thursdays! There are several trails; one of the main ones is a 1.3-mile flat sandy trail connecting with the beaches.
Visit The Damas Island Mangrove Estuary!
Are you looking for a unique experience? I suggest going on a kayaking or a boat tour across the waterways of Damas Island Estuary. With an amazing collection of wildlife, the estuary boasts a diverse coastal ecosystem inclusive of sloths, snakes, crocodiles, and monkeys.
Don't Miss The Ultimate Beach Experience!
The beaches are popular in Manuel Antonio, offering some of the most stunning views across the Pacific coast. The town of Manuel Antonio Costa Rica is filled with beaches, and they are known for their soft white sands, palm trees, and clean, pristine water.
Some of the best beaches in Central America are in Manuel Antonio, and I will be making you a list of the beaches you cannot miss when you go on that next vacation! The Manuel Antonio National Park beaches are also picturesque, especially with their lush green and wildlife.
Playa Espadilla Beach
Image Source: irp.cdn-website.com
The beach in Manuel Antonio, Playa Espadilla Beach is called the Playa Numero Uno. It is one of the most visited Manuel Antonio towns beside the Manuel Antonio National Park! This beach is the favorite of the natives, and so are the tourists!
It is a bevy of activities where you can eat delicious food and cold drinks as the locals sell their products. The water activities on this beach are the best across the town, and you can't stop being entertained!
Playa Manuel Antonio Beach
Image Source: puravidamoms.com
The highlight of the Manuel Antonio National Park, Playa Manuel Antonio Beach, is especially because of its beauty, almost like Paradise with turquoise water and white sand. A land bridge separates the beach and the park.
One of the gorgeous beaches across Manuel Antonio, the Manuel Antonio beach in Costa Rica is a must-visit for travelers worldwide with its exotic wildlife and lush tropical forests. There is also a hiking trail to Playa Gemelas!
Playa La Macha
Are you looking for an isolated and private experience for your honeymoon? A hidden gem across all the Manuel Antonio beaches, Playa La Macha, is your ideal destination! Especially if you are in the mood for a serene beach, secludedness, and some hiking!
You probably get to see more wildlife because of its secludes. The hiking trail is difficult, yet you enjoy it if you want to explore and adventure. What can be better for sunbathing, especially with warm and clear water?
Villa Rental In Costa Rica
If you plan on renting a villa and enjoying the ocean views in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica, book Vista Hermosa Estate! The villa's rooms are spacious, but what is noteworthy is the Playitas Beach which is just within walking distance from the beach villa.
There is a private beach trail that the guests at the estate can use and walk down to the sandy white beach within 10 to 15 minutes. Are you planning a multi-generational family get-together for the 50th marriage anniversary of your parents or the 60th birthday of your grandmother? This is it!
It is a perfect vacation villa with access to the beach, white sand, pristine water, and privacy.
Go Out On a Food Tour!
You visit a place, and you do not try their food? You are no sport! Apart from the beaches and wildlife, you must have an amazing culinary experience across Costa Rica. You will experience the local produce and the ranch products when you taste their food.
The main course dishes I recommend when you visit Manuel Antonio are beef short rib, roasted chicken, rack of lamb, and grilled beef tenderloin! You should also try Chifrijo, fried pork and red beans, Chorreadas, corn pancakes, and Ceviche!
You cannot miss the seafood dishes on a beach town with its grilled octopus, seafood pasta, seared tuna, the Makanda signature Tuna Tartar and seafood paella!
Feeling Adventurous? Take A Guided Night Tour!
If you want to experience Manuel Antonio to its hilt, a night tour with a guide is the way to go! The perfect time to start is between 5:30 to 6 p.m. The sun sets across the town, revealing the secrets of the rainforests and the exotic locale.
A night tour is organized at Sukia Park, where you can explore the forests at night. Get a peek into the exotic reptiles and tropical frogs that the greens have to offer! The tour is handmade for you if you are a nocturnal individual or a wildlife enthusiast.
What Do We Know?
A blend of rainforest and beaches creates the perfect background for Paradise, Manuel Antonio Costa Rica. It acts as a gateway to Paradise with white sand across the beaches, clear pristine water showcasing the Pacific Ocean's beauty, and hiking trails across the rainforests.
Explore the wildlife with your partner, family, solo, or friend group, and rejuvenate your life with unforgettable experiences and beautiful scenic views. The area is rich in biodiversity!
Many resorts are established across the beaches and the town, creating the perfect backdrop for your next vacation! In the comments below, let us know what activities interest you when you visit Manuel Antonio!
Read Also:
You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji!
Here Are The 25+ Best Hotels In Mexico City That You Must Visit!
This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do!
Ninh Binh or Halong Bay on Land is a UNESCO-protected site and a hidden gem in the tourism landscape of Vietnam.
It has ancient temples, a surreal riverine landscape, and dramatic limestone mountains. A Ninh Binh boat tour and climbing up its beautiful peaks is the best way to explore this serene place.
Moreover, if you see Ninh Binh on the map, you will find it in the northern region of the country. Along with its natural abundance, it is also known for its historical and cultural heritage.
Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about what Ninh Binh is famous for, how to reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi, the things to do in Ninh Binh, where to eat in Ninh Binh, and more.
What Is Ninh Binh Famous For?
If you are a follower of the TheLowDownUnder Travel philosophy, Ninh Binh will become your instant favorite. It’s authentic, sustainable, and perfect for mastering the art of slow traveling.
In this way, Ninh Binh reminds me of Luang Prabang in Laos. During my Luang Prabang itinerary planner, I found out how it practices sustainable tourism.
In fact, being environmentally responsible is a common feature of these two neighbors.
Also, Ninh Binh is one of the most exotic places to watch the sunrise in Vietnam.
Nevertheless, here are the reasons why Ninh Binh is famous for.
1. Waterways And Wetlands
Ninh Binh is a lush and fertile region blessed by a network of waterways. The Red River and the Day River function as the lifeline of this region, and at the same time, many smaller rivers have added to the fertility and unique topography of the region.
You can enjoy a boat tour of these waterways and experience an adrenaline rush.
Moreover, these wetlands, especially in places such as the Van Long Nature Reserve, are home to different types of birds and other animals.
2. Karst Limestone Cliffs
Trang An, Tam Coc, and Van Long Nature Reserve are some of the most famous Karst limestone cliff areas in Ninh.
Most of the karst limestone formations here rise from the waterways and the rice paddies. Thus, this sudden rise against the lows of the waterway creates a sense of drama.
3. Grottes And Caves
The limestone karsts in Nin Binh are all the more fascinating due to the underground exploration and adventure opportunities they offer.
Some of them, especially the ones in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, come with caves and grottes. Moreover, these caves and grottes are some of the largest in Southeast Asia.
4. Proximity To Hanoi
Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, is one of the cheapest places to visit in the world.
The Hanoi to Ninh Binh journey by road takes around 2 hours. Drive south from Hanoi, and you will reach the former capital of the country.
However, despite this proximity, Ninh Binh has maintained its idyllic charm. So, often, it is the go-to destination for a day trip or weekend trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
5. Transportation Hubs
The Ninh Binh City railway station is the gateway to the Ninh Binh region for the rest of the country.
Furthermore, Ninh Binh is well-connected via road. Thus, this scenic region of Vietnam is quite easily accessible.
6. Gateway To Exploration
Ninh Binh is the gateway to Halong Bay in the east and the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
Furthermore, from Ninh Binh, you can explore northern regions such as Sapa and the Vietnam-China border.
7. Historical And Cultural Heritage
Ninh Binh is home to Hoa Lu, the first capital of independent Vietnam. The Dinh and Early Le dynasties ruled over Hoa Lu from 968 to 1010 AD before the capital was moved to Hanoi.
You will find here 10th-century temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le in Hoa Lu.
Furthermore, Nin Binh has many ancient pagodas, and its cultural significance lies in being a UNESCO-Protected Site.
8. Scenic Beauty
The waterways of Ninh Binh are tranquil. Furthermore, the lush landscape and karst limestone formations act as the most dramatic backdrop.
You will love trekking, birdwatching, and of course boating at Ninh Binh.
How To Get From Hanoi To Ninh Binh?
A Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi is quite common. You can take a bus or train, or reserve a private car for the day trip.
1. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Train
You can take a train ride from Hanoi to the Ninh Binh Railway Station.
Depending on the class, your ticket price will be between VND 60000 and 200000, or around $8 USD.
Moreover, the travel time will be around 2.5 hours.
2. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Bus
If you are a budget traveler, you can take a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The buses, however, take a little longer, and based on the traffic, it may take up to 3 hours.
The ticket price for a Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus ride is around USD 6 or VND 70000-150000.
3. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Car
You can book an Uber or just take a private car to reach Ninh Binh by car from Hanoi. Of course, it is the most expensive mode of transportation and costs around 1,380,000 VND or USD 60.
Furthermore, the travel time will be around 1.5 hours.
Moving Around Ninh Binh
Once you are in Ninh Binh and want to explore it locally, you can do it on foot. The city of Ninh Binh is very walkable.
However, if you want to explore more, you can take a bicycle or rent a bike.
1. Exploring Ninh Binh On A Bicycle
It’s a miss if you are in Ninh Binh and don’t explore Tam Coc or other quieter areas of Ninh Binh.
I got a bicycle from the homestay I was staying in for free. However, some homestays can charge a little for the bicycle rental.
2. Exploring Ning Binh On A Bike
Renting a motorbike is the best way to roam around Ninh Binh. You have to spend around $6 USD or VND 80,000–150,000 to rent a bike for a day.
Then, you can explore all corners of this UNESCO Protected Site and explore how history speaks in its every corner.
What Are The Things To Do In Ninh Binh?
The Ninh Binh Vietnam attractions are endless. You have to just figure out the best time to visit Vietnam based on your areas of interest.
Also, the things to do or the places to visit will depend on your duration of stay. Here, I have enlisted the activities that will fit well into your Ninh Binh itinerary for two days.
Nevertheless, here are the details on what to do in Ninh Binh.
1. Ninh Binh Trang An Tour
Tràng An is designated by UNESCO as a heritage site, and you can reach it by taking a no-hassle boat ride from Ninh Binh.
The boatride in the serene rivers with the karst limestone cliffs in the background feels cinematic.
Furthermore, on the way, you will find a few temples where you can sniff history and appreciate the architecture.
Why Take A Trang An Tour
You must take a Trang An Tour because it is not as expensive as a trip to Bến Thạch Bích. Bến Thạch Bích tour is expensive and has now become a tourist scam.
A tour to Trang An costs around $10 USD or 250000 VND per person.
2. Hiking The Lying Dragon Mountain Or Núi Ngoạ Long
The boat rides through the ancient waterways, watched over by the karst limestones, are not the only adventures offered by Ninh Binh.
You can plan a hike to the Lying Dragon Mountain top. You have to climb 500 steps to reach the top, and the view from there is unreal.
From the top, you will see the lush paddy fields and the waterways winding through the limestone cliffs. There is even a temple on a rocky spire.
Ideal Time For Hiking The Lying Dragon Mountain
Sunrise and sunset hours are the best for hiking the Lying Dragon Mountain. You can enjoy the golden and red glow from the top of the mountain.
Also, if you are hiking early in the morning, you will have fewer people taking the steps to the top.
Entry Fee And Parking Tip
The entry fee for the Lying Dragon Mountain hike is 100,000 VND or $4 USD. However, please note that your parking fee is included in this fee.
The parking attendants are very aggressive, and they will often misguide you by saying that the parking lot is full. So, be strict about not paying them extra or giving in to their tricks.
3. A Visit To Bich Dong Pagoda
The Bich Dong Pagoda in the Hoa Lu District was built by Ly Thai To. It is on the Truong Yen limestone mountain range, and its history dates back to 1428.
However, it was abandoned for many centuries until Tri The and Tri Kien discovered it in 1705. Furthermore, it was named the Bich Dong Pagoda or Green Pearl cave by Lord Trinh Sam of Dang Ngoai in 1774.
The Unique Structure Of The Bich Dong Pagoda
The pagoda has three levels, and the Dark Cave and the Xuyen Thuy Cave.
• Ha Pagoda Or Lower Pagoda
The Ha Pagoda, or Lower Pagoda, has 5 rooms and 10 roofs.
Furthermore, there is a monolithic stone pillar adorned with the statues of Lord Buddha. The lower pagoda is used for worship, and you will smell incense once you enter it, and the smell evokes a spiritual feeling.
• Middle Pagoda Or The Trung Pagoda
Then, you have to take 120 steps to reach the Middle Pagoda or the Trung Pagoda. It has beautiful tiles and scriptures written in Chinese.
Also, you will find the figures of Lord Buddha, flying dragons, turtles, fairies, and little boys here.
• The Upper Pagoda Or The Thuong Pagoda
Finally, you will take 40 steps to reach the upper pagoda or Thuong Pagoda. There is a forecourt, two rooms, and a stone altar in the outer room of the pagoda.
Furthermore, there is an inner room, which has the idol of the Bodhisattva. Moreover, the Cam Lo pond near the upper cave is used for curing ailments.
• Dark Cave Bich Dong
You will again climb 21 steps from the Upper Pagoda to reach the Dark Cave Bich Dong.
You will find a large bronze bell there in 1707. Furthermore, inside the cave wall, you will find amazing embossed pictures.
• Xuyen Thuy Cave
The Xuyen Thuy Cave is semicircular in form and has a length of around 350 meters. In places, the cave is 6-15 meters in width.
4. Birdwatching At The Thung Nham Bird Valley
The Thung Nham Bird Valley is a great spot for nature lovers. You will find the birds early in the morning or late afternoon.
However, if you are late in the morning or in the afternoon at the Thung Nham Bird Valley, you will find goats and ducks roaming.
Overall, the view of the field is amazing.
5. Exploring The Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu, or the ancient capital of Vietnam, is the place to enjoy the history of Ninh Binh.
Being here feels straight out of a movie scene, and this place of reign by the Le and Dinh dynasties, with the surrounding mountains looks straight from a movie scene.
Where To Stay In Ninh Binh?
You will find many budget-friendly homestays and hotels in Ninh Binh. Having said that, these are my favorite picks.
We stayed at the Ruby Homestay, and it offered a local and authentic experience. It was budget-friendly and still had amenities such as a pool.
However, if you want a more luxurious experience, you can even try the Ninh Binh Royal Homestay. It is a resort with a 3-star rating.
What To Eat In Ninh Binh?
The mountain goat meat cooked in various styles, braised fish, rice, and crispy rice are some traditional Vietnamese dishes you can eat in Ninh Binh.
Furthermore, if you are more adventurous, you can try delicacies such as the snakehead fish salad and oakit or jackfruit snail.
Chookie's in Tam Coc and the local markets were our favorite go-to places for trying authentic Vietnamese cuisines and a mix of Western delicacies at times.
Is Ninh Binh Worth Visiting?
Yes, Ninh Binh is worth visiting, and it is the heart of Northern Vietnam for tourists. It has pagodas and temples that go back to the 10th century. Furthermore, the winding waterways through the karst limestone formations simply create a landscape of contrast.
Moreover, it is one of the best places to see sunrise and sunset in Vietnam.
It’s soulful, sustainable, and fertile with lush greenery. Come, visit Ninh Binh.
Ninh Binh, Vietnam: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Ninh Binh.
1. Which Is Better, Ninh Binh Or Halong Bay? Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a more celebrated attraction in Vietnam. Ninh Binh, despite being a UNESCO-protected site, is more like a hidden gem. However, Ninh Binh is closer to Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, and only a 2-hour drive south. Also, the experiences in these places are very different. In Ha Long Bay, the activities include swimming in the Gulf of Tonkin, overnight cruises, kayaking, and exploring the limestone karsts. Ninh Binh, on the other hand, with a more rural charm, has ancient temples, pagodas, rice paddies, waterways, and dramatic limestone karsts. 2. How Many Days To Stay In Ninh Binh? Two to four days are ideal for staying in Ninh Binh. From hiking up the Lying Dragon Mountain to boat rides to Trang An and Tam Coc, you can cover the major attractions of Ninh Binh in two days. However, if you want to explore the Cuc Phuong National Park or have an in-depth understanding of rural life, you must plan a trip for 3-4 days. 3. How Far Is Ninh Binh From Hanoi? The Ninh Binh and Hanoi distance is around 94 km. The travel time by road down south is around 1.5 to 2 hours. Of course, the travel time will depend on the mode of transport. For example, if you are traveling by bus, the travel time will be around 2.5 to 3 hours. Also, if you are taking a train, it will take around 2.5 hours. 4. What Is The Best Time To Visit Nin Binh? November to April is the best time to visit Nin Binh if you want to enjoy pleasant weather conditions. Having said that, the exact timing of planning your trip will depend on the kind of experience you want. For example, March to May is the ideal time for seeing the blooming flowers. However, if you want to see the golden paddies along the Ngo Dong River, you have to plan a visit in late May to early June.
So, lucky you – you’re off! Whether you’re doing like an increasing number of people and opting for a good old British beach holiday, or giving global warming a helping hand by jetting off abroad, you need to make sure your case is full of the things that will make your break a belter.
5 Important Things To Buy For Beach Holiday In 2023:
Here are five to get you started.
1. Towel
A towel isn't just to get dry with. It’s a beach statement. It says who you are and what you’re doing on that stretch of sand.
Are you an all-swimming all-surfing beach athlete, only stopping to dab yourself with your Finisterre before grabbing a frisbee, doing some cartwheels, and making everyone else feel tired?
Or are you a beach goddess, who regards the shoreline as a place where people come to worship you as you drape yourself over a length of Lacoste luxury? Or do you just like a nice fluffy number?
Your choice of the towel will shout volumes about you, so take time to make sure it’s speaking your language.
2. Wrap
The perfect complement to a beach-beating towel is a game-over wrap. Mark the end of the beach day in style by standing up and swirling something stylish around your shoulders.
Pick the right wrap and you’ll be counting the minutes until you can make that truly dramatic exit.
But you don’t have to wait until then. Wraps are useful as a cover for the bits of you that might be going a little pinker than you wanted, or any other bits for that matter.
3. Ebook reader
So, you’re there. The sun’s come through with its end of the deal. The sea’s doing its thing. The sand’s playing a blinder. What’s missing? The perfect book, that’s what.
And of course, you don’t want to be lugging half a library with you, so you simply must pick something great from the range of ebook readers available.
They’re light, they contain shelf loads of books, and can go for weeks without a charge. What’s more, you can pick up amazing books for only 99p each.
Some classic texts are even free. You can also make notes on books as you go (ideal for those times when you think you could have phrased things a little better than Tolstoy managed).
4. Ebook reader cushion
Why should you be the one with all the comfort? Give your ebook reader a nice cushion to rest against. It’s their holiday too.
5. Torch
One of the things that often surprises holidaymakers is how quickly it gets dark the closer you are to the equator. One minute, sunshine.
The next, it’s like somebody switched the light off. Be prepared for those super-quick sunsets with a handy torch.
Also useful when you’ve got your sunglasses on and you want to find something at the bottom of your beach bag. Well, yes, of course, you could just take those sunglasses off.
But you didn’t spend all that dosh on a pair of Celine Cat Eyes just to be seen out of them, did you?
Related: Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida
Happy Holidays
What you buy in the next few months can determine how good a holiday you have. Make sure you get the bits you need to make your holiday the best ever.
Read More:
YACHT VACATION: HOW THE RICH SPEND THEIR HOLIDAYS
FAQ About Staying Safe With Holiday Royal Vacation Club
6 Amazing Things To Do In Sunny Beach Bulgaria In 2022
Related
