Hotels in Hoa Lu

Explore the Enchanted Temples and Majestic Mountains of Hoa Lu

Nestled in Ninh Binh Province, Hoa Lu is a hidden gem that beautifully marries nature and culture. Once the capital of Vietnam, this ancient town is surrounded by breathtaking karst mountains and lush rice paddies. Explore the historic temples of Dinh and Le dynasties, set against stunning backdrops. The nearby natural parks invite outdoor enthusiasts to hike and kayak through tranquil landscapes. With its rich history, serene gardens, and spiritual sites like Huong Pagoda, Hoa Lu offers a perfect escape for those seeking a unique blend of adventure and tranquility in Vietnam’s heartland. For the best hotel rates in Hoa Lu, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Hoa Lu

Some of the best places to stay in Hoa Lu are Ninh Binh, Gia Vien and Nam Dinh. Ninh Binh is a fantastic destination known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and unique limestone karsts. Gia Vien offers a serene rural experience with lush greenery, while Nam Dinh boasts rich cultural heritage and historical sites. For accommodations, Ninh Binh features a range of options from budget to star hotels, often with scenic views and room service. For first-time visitors, Ninh Binh is the best choice, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Hoa Lu:

1. Ninh BinhOpens in a new window: Ninh Binh is a captivating destination known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. It's home to the picturesque Tam Coc Bich Dong and the scenic Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The Ninh Binh Walking Street adds a vibrant city atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for dining and shopping. For accommodations, Ninh Binh Legend HotelOpens in a new window offers a luxurious stay with business amenities and family-friendly services. The Vissai HotelOpens in a new window is another great option, providing excellent facilities for both business and leisure travelers. Additionally, Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & ResortOpens in a new window features a full spa and outdoor pool, catering to guests seeking relaxation after a day of exploration.
2. Gia VienOpens in a new window: Gia Vien is a charming area rich in cultural and natural attractions, including the Bai Dinh Temple Complex and breathtaking landscapes around Tam Coc and Trang An. This location is perfect for those looking to indulge in outdoor activities and immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture. Hotels like Emeralda Resort Ninh BinhOpens in a new window offer adventure sports and family-friendly amenities, making it suitable for all types of travelers. Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa Ninh BinhOpens in a new window features a full spa and pool services, ideal for relaxation. Lastly, Bai Dinh HotelOpens in a new window provides essential business amenities, making it a practical choice for corporate travelers.
3. Nam DinhOpens in a new window: Nam Dinh is an engaging region with a mix of cultural and sporting attractions, including the Nam Dịnh Flag Tower and Thien Truong Stadium, providing a unique blend of entertainment and history. It's an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore the local culture and enjoy city life. Nam Cuong Nam Dinh HotelOpens in a new window and SOJO Hotel Nam DinhOpens in a new window cater primarily to business travelers, offering essential facilities such as meeting rooms and business centers. For those seeking a more relaxing environment, Golden Thai Binh HotelOpens in a new window provides spa services, ensuring a comfortable stay while exploring the city.

Things to do in Hoa Lu for first time

Three days in Hoa Lu offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in stunning natural landscapes, including majestic mountains, lush forests, and tranquil lakes. Enjoy activities like biking through scenic trails and boating along serene waterways, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hoa Lu:

• Day 1: Start your exploration at Ninh Binh Walking Street, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere filled with local shops and eateries. Afterward, make your way to Dinh Tien Hoang Square, a perfect spot to relax and appreciate the surrounding architecture and greenery. Conclude your day by visiting the Gate to Trang An Ecological Tourist Area, where you can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and prepare for your adventures in the nearby caves and waterways.
• Day 2: Begin your journey at the Bai Dinh Temple Complex, the largest Buddhist temple in Vietnam, where you can marvel at its impressive statues and serene ambiance. Next, visit Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda, known for its peaceful setting and intricate designs. Wrap up your day at Van Long Nature Wetland Reserve, an ideal location for bird watching and taking in breathtaking views of limestone mountains reflected in tranquil waters.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, where you can explore its diverse flora and fauna while enjoying a boat ride through the picturesque landscape. Continue to Phat Quang Temple, a tranquil site that offers a glimpse into local spiritual practices. Finally, end your itinerary at Phu Day, a notable pilgrimage site where you can learn about its cultural significance and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

5 tips to find a great Hoa Lu hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Hoa Lu is between February and April when hotel rates are lower. For those traveling on a budget, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully experience the area's main attractions. Hoa Lu boasts stunning natural parks, beautiful gardens, and historic temples, making it a great value for money for any traveler looking to explore this captivating destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Hoa Lu, Hotels.com is a fantastic resource. To explore potential discounts, head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find reduced rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, so you’re more likely to snag a great deal and save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Hoa Lu.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Hoa Lu is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, or bicycles to explore the area and potentially save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Hoa Lu and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Hoa Lu

Here are some top-rated dishes in Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam:

• Phở: This iconic Vietnamese noodle soup is a must-try in Hoa Lu, featuring a rich broth made from simmered beef or chicken, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. Traditionally served with lime, bean sprouts, and chili, it’s enjoyed at any time of day, making it a communal dish that brings people together.
• Bánh Mì: A delicious sandwich that reflects the fusion of Vietnamese and French influences, bánh mì consists of a crispy baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro. It’s a convenient and customizable meal, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the area.
• Bún Chả: This dish features grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a side of dipping sauce. Often enjoyed as a shared meal, bún chả is a flavorful representation of Northern Vietnamese cuisine, showcasing the art of grilling and the freshness of local ingredients.

Best time to go to Hoa Lu

Hoa Lu experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 63.9°F (17.7°C), while June is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 86.7°F (30.4°C). August tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Hoa Lu are January, March, and April, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, May, June, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.