In the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year) 2026, social media platforms were flooded with images of spring trips to Ha Noi and Ninh Binh. With its picturesque landscapes and tranquil, ancient charm, the former imperial capital was likened to a perfect backdrop for spring photos in traditional Vietnamese ao dai dresses.
However, the biggest concern for women when travelling long distances for photoshoots is transportation. Crowded buses, cramped conditions, and limited space can easily wrinkle clothes, smudge makeup, and leave you feeling exhausted before reaching your destination. This article will suggest a travel itinerary to check in at the most beautiful spots in Ninh Binh and the optimal Hanoi-Ninh Binh bus route to help you save more.
4 Must-Visit Locations for Tet Ao Dai Photoshoots in Ninh Binh
To get the perfect Tet (Lunar New Year) photoshoot, choosing a location that matches your outfit style is crucial. Below are some suggestions for the most popular destinations this Tet season.
1. Trang An Tourist Area: A serene and ethereal beauty
Recognised by UNESCO as a scenic wonder, Trang An is consistently a top choice for its emerald-green waters, surrounded by majestic mountains and gracefully curved pavilions along the stream. The tranquil atmosphere here is ideal for highlighting the gentle, demure beauty of Vietnamese women.
- Note: Please leave early and arrive between 7:00 and 8:30 AM to enjoy the quiet surroundings and fresh morning sunlight.
- Suggested attire: A pristine white ao dai, a light pastel silk ao dai, or a traditional Vietnamese costume.
- Prime photo spot: Sitting on a boat (bring a conical hat or hand fan as a prop), at the Thuy Dinh area.
2. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: A Nostalgic and Serene Charm
Unlike the romantic charm of Trang An, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu possesses the solemnity of history with its moss-covered walls and time-worn stone gates. This is a superb setting for traditional and luxurious concepts
- Suggested attire: Red velvet ao dai, five-panel ao dai, quilted jacket (if the weather is cold). The vibrant red will stand out beautifully against the ancient gray backdrop of the stone architecture.
- Prime photo spots: Tam Quan Gate, Dragon Courtyard
3. Hang Mua: Majestic and expansive
This location is perfect for those who love unconventional styles and want to take photos against a backdrop of magnificent natural scenery.
- Suggested attire: A stylish halter top, a colourful brocade skirt, or a modern, redesigned Ao Dai (Vietnamese traditional dress).
- Note: Mountain climbing requires good physical fitness, so you should prepare comfortable shoes with soft soles for easy movement before changing into high heels for the photoshoot.
4. Hoa Lu Ancient Town at Night: A Festival of Colours
Often described as a miniature Hoi An in the heart of Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu Ancient Town at night is ablaze with lanterns and the bustling atmosphere of people celebrating the Lunar New Year. The festive spirit here is most clearly expressed through the dazzling colours of the flower-decorated boats.
- Suggested outfits: Ao Dai in the style of Co Ba Saigon or retro vintage clothing.
Transportation solutions for the Hanoi – Ninh Binh bus route.
To conquer the aforementioned destinations while maintaining flawless makeup and impeccable attire, the current trend among travellers is to choose high-quality limousine services instead of traditional buses.
1. X.E Viet Nam: Flexible time options
X.E Vietnam currently owns the largest fleet of vehicles on this route. This is an ideal choice for groups of young people needing flexibility or those who want to optimize their daily travel schedule.
- Vehicle type: Limousine.
- Frequency: Every hour.
- Ticket price: from 155,000 VND/person.
- Pickup location: 4 Tho Thap Street, Hanoi (transfer service available to inner districts of Hanoi).
- Drop-off location: Ninh Binh (transfer service available to various points in Ninh Binh).
2. Trang An Limousine: Experience luxury relaxation
If you value privacy and desire an absolutely quiet space to rest and recharge before a photoshoot, Trang An Limousine is a name worth considering
- Vehicle type: Limousine
- Frequency: Approximately 15 trips/day
- Departure time: 06:00 – 20:00. Ticket price: 170,000 VND/trip
- Pickup points: Tu Mo Office (21 Tu Mo, Trung Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi), Pho Vong Office (107 Pho Vong, Dong Tam Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi), Dong Tau Office (Kiosk 10.N5 Dong Tau Urban Area, Thinh Liet Ward, Hoang Mai District, Hanoi)
- Drop-off points: Ninh Binh Office (47 Nguyen Hue, Nam Binh Ward, Ninh Binh City, Ninh Binh Province), Tam Coc boat dock (Tam Coc boat dock entrance), Trang An boat dock (6 Trang An, Ninh Xuan Ward, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province).
Conclusion
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is a time to enjoy and cherish beautiful moments. Don’t let travel inconveniences spoil your spring holiday experience. Careful transportation planning will make your Hanoi-Ninh Binh trip complete, ensuring you look your most confident and radiant in every photo.
Note: During the Lunar New Year holiday, Ninh Binh experiences a very large influx of tourists. You should book your tickets 1-2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred seats and a smooth itinerary.
👉 Check the schedule and book your Hanoi – Ninh Binh bus tickets on redBus, enter the applicable promo code and discounts.
