Orienting tourism to become a key economic sector
According to the report on reviewing the adjusted dossier of Ninh Binh Provincial Planning for the period 2021 - 2030, vision to 2050, the general goal by 2030 is to build Ninh Binh into a centrally-run city with the characteristics of a millennium heritage city and a creative city; and at the same time a new growth pole of the Red River Delta region.
Tourism is oriented to become a key economic sector, becoming a national and international tourism center, focusing on building 1 center - 3 strategic spaces - 5 tourist routes - 7 tourist clusters, ensuring regional and inter-sectoral linkages and the specificity of each tourist space. The focus is on developing the "Millennium Heritage City" model in a green, sustainable and smart direction, promoting the value of cultural and natural heritage, especially the Trang An Scenic Complex.
Currently, Ninh Binh province has 15 recognized tourist areas and attractions, more than 60 tourist areas and attractions, potential tourism development locations, along with a network of travel businesses and a team of increasingly professional tour guides, contributing to improving the experience for tourists, building a friendly, safe, and attractive Ninh Binh tourism image.
Information from the Ninh Binh Provincial Department of Tourism, the total number of tourists in the first quarter of 2026 is estimated at nearly 9.9 million, of which international visitors exceeded 1 million, revenue reached nearly 10,053 billion VND. In March alone, the number of visitors reached more than 4.1 million, showing the steady recovery and growth of the local tourism industry.
Mr. Bui Van Manh - Director of Ninh Binh Provincial Department of Tourism said that accommodation management, ensuring security and safety for tourists are emphasized. In addition, tourism promotion and promotion activities are also promoted through digital platforms, fairs, survey programs and international cooperation, contributing to spreading the image of Ninh Binh to a large number of domestic and foreign tourists.
Notably, digital transformation in tourism continues to be promoted with the application of smart platforms, QR code systems, electronic news bulletins and digital communication tools, helping to improve tourists' access to information and experiences.
In the second quarter of 2026, Ninh Binh tourism industry determined to continue to synchronously implement key tasks such as developing tourism associated with new rural areas, promoting domestic and international promotion, organizing Ninh Binh Tourism Week 2026 and completing the dossier for world heritage nominations for key areas.
Trang An - a priceless resource
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 2014 (this is the first "double" heritage in Southeast Asia). The title of world heritage creates opportunities and motivation for Ninh Binh to implement a development model that harmoniously links heritage conservation and green growth, integrating into the network of heritage cities owning UNESCO titles in the world.
Trang An scenic spot impresses with a system of overlapping limestone mountains, interspersed with flooded valleys and caves. The water here is blue all year round, reflecting mountains, creating a scene that is both majestic and poetic. There are also many sacred temples and shrines associated with history, creating cultural depth for tourists' exploration journey.
Tourists can explore Trang An all year round, but the most ideal time to explore Trang An is from March to May. When the weather is lightly sunny and the air is fresh, tourists can both admire the natural scenery and admire the brilliant golden ripe rice fields stretching along both sides of the Sao Khe and Ngo Dong rivers, creating a picturesque and attractive landscape.
Not only impressing with its landscape, Trang An also leaves many special emotions for tourists when experiencing it directly. Mr. Nguyen Van Hung (a tourist from Hanoi) shared: "I have been to Trang An a few times but each time I have a very different feeling. Sitting on a boat weaving through caves, with limestone mountains and clear blue water on both sides, it feels very peaceful. Especially during the ripe rice season, the scenery is as beautiful as a painting, taking photos from any angle is impressive".
Ms. Tran Ngoc Mai (a tourist from Hung Yen) said: "What I like about Trang An is the combination of nature and spiritual elements. Both visiting the beautiful scenery and being able to visit temples to offer incense, the feeling is very complete, peaceful and relaxed.
According to a representative of the Management Board of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (under the Ninh Binh Provincial Department of Tourism), tourism development in Trang An is always associated with heritage preservation. Exploitation activities are strictly controlled to preserve natural values and enhance the experience for tourists.
Thanks to the harmony between preservation and development, Trang An is not only a prominent destination of Ninh Binh but also gradually affirms its position on the international tourism map.
