Tam Coc - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Tam Coc

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tam Coc, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tam Coc and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tam Coc, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Tam Coc for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tam Coc

Tam Coc, also known as “Ha Long Bay on land”, is a scenic area located in Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam. It features stunning karst limestone formations, crystal clear rivers, and lush green rice paddies. Tam Coc is famous for its boat tours that take visitors through a series of caves and canals. Along the way, tourists can enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and the local rural life. Tam Coc is also home to many historic sites, including the Bai Dinh Pagoda and the Hoa Lu ancient capital. The best time to visit Tam Coc is from late May to early October when the weather is dry and the scenery is at its finest.

What to visit in Tam Coc

Tam Coc is a popular tourist destination in Vietnam known for its picturesque limestone karst formations, rice paddies, and serene atmosphere. Some of the top attractions in Tam Coc are: 1. Tam Coc Bich Dong Pagoda: This pagoda complex is located on a mountainside and consists of three structures - Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas. Visitors can climb up to the top of the mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Tam Coc River: A boat ride along the Tam Coc River is a must-do activity for visitors to Tam Coc. The ride takes you through beautiful caves and past lush green rice paddies, offering stunning views of the karst formations.
3. Thung Nham Bird Garden: This bird sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 40 different species of birds including storks, herons, and egrets.
4. Bich Dong Pagoda: Another pagoda complex located in a cave, Bich Dong Pagoda offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: The ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, is located just a short distance from Tam Coc. Visitors can explore the ancient temples, pagodas, and imperial palace of the former capital city.
6. Mua Cave: A climb up the stone stairs of Mua Cave rewards visitors with panoramic views of Tam Coc and the surrounding mountains.
Overall, Tam Coc offers a beautiful and tranquil retreat for visitors to Vietnam to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the countryside.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tam Coc.

When to go on holiday to Tam Coc

The best time to visit Tam Coc is during the dry season, which runs from late October to early April. During this time, the weather is generally dry, sunny, and pleasant with cooler temperatures. However, the peak tourist season is from December to February when the weather is at its best. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider going in October or November, or in March or April when the weather is still good but the tourist numbers are lower. Just note that Tam Coc can get quite busy during weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tam Coc

Tam Coc is located in the Ninh Binh province of Vietnam. Here are some options for getting there: 1. By train - Take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh station, which is approximately 10 km from Tam Coc. From here, you can hire a taxi or a motorbike to reach Tam Coc.
2. By bus - Several buses run from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, and from there you can take a taxi or a motorbike to Tam Coc.
3. Private car - You can hire a private car or taxi from Hanoi to Tam Coc.
4. Motorbike - Renting a motorbike in Hanoi and driving to Tam Coc is also an option, but it's important to note that the roads in Vietnam can be challenging if you are not used to them.
I recommend booking your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tam Coc, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tam Coc

Tam Coc is a beautiful region in Vietnam located near Ninh Binh. It offers a rich variety of authentic Vietnamese cuisine with unique flavors and a lot of nutrition. Here are some typical dishes of Tam Coc with a brief description: 1. Nem Chua Be- Fermented pork rolls which are wrapped in banana leaves. These are extremely popular and have a sour, sweet and spicy flavor.
2. Ca Lang- A dish made with fish which is locally caught. It is cooked in a sour soup which has a lot of vegetables. 3. Com Chay- This is a vegetarian dish which comprises of fried rice that is mixed with tofu, mushroom, and vegetables. 4. Gia Nguon- This is a sweet dessert that is served with a syrup of sugar and ginger. It is made from mung beans and sticky rice.
5. Bun Cha Tam Coc- This is a must-try dish of Tam Coc that is a bowl of crispy Vietnamese pork and rice noodles with a side of fresh herbs and vegetables.
6. Chè- This is a popular sweet beverage that is similar to a dessert. It is generally made from various kinds of beans, nuts, and fruits along with coconut milk and jelly.
7. Nem Cuon- These are famous spring rolls that are filled with shrimp, pork, vegetables and herbs. They are served with a dipping sauce made of fish sauce and peanut butter.
8. Banh cuon- These are a type of breakfast dumpling which are made of rice paper stuffed with ground pork, black mushroom, shallots, and coriander. These dishes are not only delicious but also authentic to Tam Coc and a must-try for any foodie venturing in the region.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Tam Coc an expensive destination for tourists?

Tam Coc, located in the Ninh Binh Province of Vietnam, is not considered an expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to major tourist destinations in other parts of the world. However, prices for accommodations, food, and activities can vary based on the time of year, level of luxury, and travel dates.
In general, budget hotels and homestays are available for around $10-20 USD per night, while mid-range hotels can cost between $30-50 USD per night. Local food options are generally affordable, with street food and local restaurants offering meals for around $2-5 USD. Activities like boat tours or bike rentals usually cost between $5-30 USD, depending on the length of the tour and the provider.
Overall, Tam Coc can be considered a budget-friendly destination for tourists, but travelers should still budget accordingly based on their travel preferences and dates.

Where to find accomodation in Tam Coc

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Tam Coc are in the nearby towns of Ninh Binh and Tam Coc itself. Ninh Binh is a larger city with a variety of lodging options, including hotels, hostels, and homestays. Tam Coc, on the other hand, has a more limited selection, but there are still some lovely homestays and guesthouses available for those who prefer a quieter, more secluded setting. Both Ninh Binh and Tam Coc provide easy access to the Tam Coc boat ride and other attractions in the area.
You can check hotel prices at Tam Coc here:
Booking.com

Is Tam Coc a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, in general, Tam Coc in Vietnam is considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. It is a good idea to research the safety situation in the area before traveling and take note of any common scams or safety hazards. Additionally, it is recommended to use reputable tour operators and accommodations and to be mindful of your belongings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tam Coc.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tam Coc the most?

Tam Coc in Vietnam can be enjoyed by people of all ages, interests and travel preferences. However, it is especially suitable for couples, families and people looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of busy life. The region is well known for its scenic beauty, including lush greenery, limestone cliffs, and tranquil rivers, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Couples can enjoy the romantic ambiance of the area by taking a boat ride through the peaceful waterways while admiring the spectacular scenery. Tam Coc is also an excellent destination for families with kids who love to explore and learn about new cultures.
Young people looking for fun might prefer to go to more active and lively areas, as Tam Coc is more focused on nature and relaxation. Overall, Tam Coc offers a unique and serene experience for those who seek a relaxing getaway in an enchanting natural setting.

How to get around Tam Coc

The most common modes of transportation in Tam Coc, Vietnam are bicycles, motorbikes, and boats. Bicycles are a great way to explore the scenic countryside, while motorbikes are a good option for further exploration and getting around the town. Boats are used to navigate the beautiful Tam Coc river and explore the caves. It's recommended to rent these from reputable and licensed vendors. Please note that it's generally not suggested to drive by yourself in Vietnam if you're not familiar with local traffic rules and road conditions, and it's important to always wear a helmet when using a motorbike or bicycle.

What to see around Tam Coc

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tam Coc, Vietnam: 1. Bich Dong Pagoda: It's a beautiful pagoda complex with three different levels that lead to a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and rice fields.
2. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: It's an important historical site that used to be the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Some of the highlights include the temples of Dinh and Le kings and the Thien Ton Cave.
3. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that features a series of caves, limestone cliffs, and rivers. You can take a boat ride here and enjoy the stunning views.
4. Van Long Nature Reserve: It's one of the largest wetlands in Vietnam and a great place to spot wildlife like langurs, birds, and reptiles. You can take a boat tour here and enjoy the peacefulness of the area.
5. Cuc Phuong National Park: It's the largest nature reserve in Vietnam and home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can take guided hikes here to explore the forest and spot animals like monkeys, birds, and squirrels.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Tam Coc, Vietnam!
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