Traditional shopping tours in Ninh Binh take you straight to the heart of Vietnam’s authentic countryside markets and craft villages. Local guides lead small groups through bustling rural markets, where you’ll find everything from handwoven textiles to locally crafted ceramics. We especially love the half-day village tours that combine shopping with culture – you’ll watch artisans at work while having the chance to purchase directly from their workshops.
The best tours include stops at both the main Ninh Binh Market and outlying village markets, where prices are lower and goods more authentic. Standout experiences include visiting the silk weaving village of Van Lam and the stone carving workshops near the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
Let’s explore the most rewarding shopping tours Ninh Binh has to offer.
Key Points
- This tour focuses on cultural exploration and farming activities rather than shopping in Ninh Binh.
- The tour includes visits to historical sites, traditional villages, and opportunities for hands-on farming experiences.
- Culinary classes are a highlight, teaching participants to prepare local specialties like fried spring rolls and grilled fish.
- Transportation, a local lunch, and weather-appropriate gear are provided for a comfortable and guided experience.
- While the tour does not specifically include shopping, it offers insights into the authentic rural life and customs of Vietnam.
Ninh Binh: Local Farm Trip & Cycling and Cooking Class
The Ninh Binh: Local Farm Trip & Cycling and Cooking Class offers visitors an immersive experience blending cultural and natural elements. Priced from $61.28 per person, this 8-10 hour tour takes guests on a journey through the picturesque countryside of Ninh Binh.
Visitors will explore Tho Ha Village by bicycle, discovering hidden hamlets and historical landmarks. Later, they’ll engage in traditional farming activities in Dong Tam village, such as catching crabs, fishing, and transplanting rice.
The highlight of the tour is a cooking class at the Tho Ha Stilt House, where you will learn to prepare local delicacies, including sweet potato cakes, fried spring rolls, grilled fish, goat meat, and crispy rice.
The self-prepared dishes are then enjoyed for lunch, concluding the experience at 3:30 PM. With an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and transportation from Hanoi included, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the cultural and natural wonders of Ninh Binh.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh: Local Farm Trip & Cycling and Cooking Class Review
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Ninh Binh Farm Trip: Experience the Authentic Rural Life
Ninh Binh Farm Trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the authentic rural life of Vietnam. This 12-hour experience provides visitors with a chance to explore the picturesque countryside, participate in traditional farming activities, and discover hidden historical gems.
The tour begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, followed by a visit to the Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang Temple. Guests then venture to the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lư, to learn about the country’s rich history.
The highlight of the trip is the local farm, where visitors can engage in activities like catching fish and planting rice. Travelers will also have the chance to explore a hidden cave and cool off with a refreshing swim at a nearby waterfall.
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, a local lunch, and complimentary amenities such as hats, umbrellas, and raincoats.
Read our full review: Ninh Binh Farm Trip: Experience the Authentic Rural Life Review
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The Sum Up
Ninh Binh offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the region’s rural charm. From exploring local farms to participating in hands-on cooking classes, these tours provide an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of the Vietnamese people. Visitors can expect to come away with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage and a renewed connection to the land.