Leave the city behind and venture to one of the most picturesque areas of Vietnam; Ninh Binh. The drive takes around 2-3 hours to Hoa Lu, where you can join your guide for an in-depth exploration of the ruins of Vietnam’s first capital. Learn about the Dinh and Le Dynasties and admire the former citadel site. For those with some extra energy, enjoy a walk up one of the limestone karst hills for spectacular views over the surroundings.

Continue by road to Tam Coc, passing through quaint villages and stop for a local lunch. After lunch take a private sampan boat for a journey through “Halong Bay on Land”. Admire the views and visit the hidden caves before heading back to town and exploring Ngu Nhac Mountain. If preferred a cycle tour can be arranged to explore the countryside or a visit to the Van Long nature reserve for monkey spotting.