Discover the top 10 things to do in Nam Dinh, Ninh Binh Province, from exploring Tran Temple to savoring phở bò. Explore costs, tips, and book sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group for an authentic Vietnamese adventure.
Capture the spiritual essence of Nam Dinh’s historic gem (Source: Internet)
Dive into the serene charm of Nam Dinh Travel (Source: Internet)The Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a captivating destination in the Red River Delta, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, serene landscapes, and vibrant culinary scene. Located ~90–100 km south of Hanoi, Nam Dinh offers a perfect blend of historical landmarks, tranquil natural sites, and unique local experiences. From the sacred Tran Temple to the pristine Thinh Long Beach and iconic dishes like phở bò, this region provides endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to discover Nam Dinh’s treasures through our eco-friendly tours—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into our curated list of the 10 best things to do in Nam Dinh, complete with updated costs, insider tips, and sustainable travel insights for an unforgettable journey in Ninh Binh Province.
Thinh Long Beach (Source: Internet)Nam Dinh stands out as a must-visit destination:
Historical Depth: Explore sites like Tran Temple and Phu Day Relic Complex, reflecting Vietnam’s imperial past.
Natural Beauty: Enjoy serene lakes, beaches, and national parks like Xuan Thuy, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve.
Culinary Excellence: Savor local specialties such as kem xôi, bánh gai, and Nam Dinh’s legendary phở bò.
Sustainable Tourism: Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours use low-impact transport and support local communities, aligning with Ninh Binh’s eco-tourism goals [].
Cultural Vibrancy: Experience festivals like Vieng Market and engage with Nam Dinh’s warm, hospitable locals.
Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure an authentic and eco-conscious adventure. Book now to explore Nam Dinh with Legend Travel Group!
Tran Temple (Source: Internet)Following Vietnam’s administrative changes, the former Nam Dinh Province is now a ward within Ninh Binh Province, with Ninh Binh City as the provincial hub. The district level has been abolished, improving infrastructure and access to Nam Dinh’s attractions. This guide refers to the Nam Dinh region, ensuring accurate planning within Ninh Binh’s tourism framework.
Vi Xuyen Park (Source: Internet)A 3-km stretch of white sand in Hai Hau, Thinh Long Beach is a pristine coastal haven perfect for relaxation and seafood dining.
What to Expect: Soft sands, gentle waves, and rows of casuarina trees create a serene escape. Enjoy fresh seafood at beachside restaurants like Quán Hải Sản Tươi Sống.
Cost: Free access; umbrella/sunbed rentals ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); seafood meals ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).
Location: Hai Hau, Nam Dinh region (~30 km from Nam Dinh City).
Highlights: “A tranquil coastal gem” (Tripadvisor, 4.4/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Visit at sunrise (5:00–7:00 AM) for solitude; avoid summer weekends for fewer crowds.
Bring sunscreen; combine with Hai Hau markets for bánh nhãn (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD/500g).
Use Highway 37B from Nam Dinh City; offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) recommended.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Getaway Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Thinh Long Beach, seafood dining, and eco-transfers [].
This sacred complex in Tuc Mac Village honors the Tran Dynasty, offering a spiritual and historical journey amidst serene surroundings.
What to Expect: Three temples—Thien Truong, Co Trach, and Trung Hoa—surrounded by the Vinh Giang River, with intricate carvings and peaceful courtyards. The Tran Temple Festival (lunar January 14–15) celebrates the dynasty’s victories.
Cost: Entrance ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).
Location: Tuc Mac Village, Nam Dinh region (~10 km from Nam Dinh City).
Highlights: “A cultural masterpiece” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.6/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Visit early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) for tranquility; dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees).
Attend the festival for cultural immersion; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance.
Combine with Pho Minh Pagoda (~1 km) for a half-day trip.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Tran Temple, guided history, and eco-transfers.
A serene urban oasis in Nam Dinh City, Vi Xuyen Park centers around Vi Xuyen Lake, offering relaxation and cultural landmarks.
What to Expect: Clean lake waters, shaded pathways, and monuments like the Tran Quoc Tuan statue and Tran Te Xuong’s grave. Join locals for morning exercises or Tet festivities (lunar January).
Cost: Free; tea/snacks at stalls ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD); bicycle rental ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD/day).
Location: Tran Phu Street, Nam Dinh City.
Highlights: “A peaceful urban retreat” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Visit at sunrise (5:00–7:00 AM) for calm views; autumn (18–28°C) is ideal.
Bring a camera for lake reflections; avoid Tet for quieter visits.
Walk to nearby Chợ Rồng market (~1 km) for local snacks.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s City Serenity Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes Vi Xuyen Park, tea tasting, and eco-transfers.
A UNESCO-recognized Ramsar site in Giao Thuy, this national park is a biodiversity hotspot ideal for eco-tourism and birdwatching.
What to Expect: Mangrove forests, tidal flats, and over 220 bird species, including the Black-faced Spoonbill, especially during migration (October–April). Enjoy boat tours or cycling trails.
Cost: Entrance ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); guided birdwatching ~200,000–500,000 VND (~$8–$20 USD); boat tours ~1,200,000 VND (~$48 USD) [].
Location: Giao Thuy, Nam Dinh region (~35 km from Nam Dinh City).
Highlights: “A nature lover’s paradise” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Visit at dawn (5:00–7:00 AM) for bird activity; bring binoculars.
Book boats at Giao Xuan commune; high tide ensures mudflat access.
Use Route 21A; combine with Giao Thuy seafood dining (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Birdwatching Eco-Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes Xuan Thuy, boat trips, and eco-transfers [].
Held annually on lunar January 7–8 in Vu Ban, this vibrant festival is a cultural highlight, known for its “lucky” copper purchases and festive atmosphere.
What to Expect: Bustling market stalls selling copper crafts, local sweets like Siu Chau candy, and traditional goods; locals pray for prosperity at nearby temples.
Cost: Free entry; copper items ~50,000–200,000 VND (~$2–$8 USD); food ~10,000–100,000 VND (~$0.40–$4 USD).
Location: Vu Ban, Nam Dinh region (~15 km from Nam Dinh City).
Highlights: “A cultural immersion” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Visit midnight to dawn for the mystical vibe; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance.
Haggle politely; bring cash (VND) for small vendors.
Combine with Phu Day Relic Complex (~5 km) for a cultural day.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Immersion Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Vieng Market, temple visits, and eco-transfers.
Located in Giao Thuy, this open-air museum showcases rural Vietnamese life with historic replicas and interactive activities.
What to Expect: Traditional houses, rice fields, and exhibits of Red River Delta life; try fishing, rice grinding, or vegetable planting.
Cost: Entrance ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); guided activities ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).
Location: Giao Thuy, Nam Dinh region (~30 km from Nam Dinh City).
Highlights: “A living history lesson” (Nhan Dân Online, 4.3/5 stars).
Tips:
Visit morning (8:00–11:00 AM) for cooler weather; wear comfortable shoes.
Book guided tours for interactive experiences; combine with Xuan Thuy (~5 km).
Bring sunscreen; use Route 21A from Nam Dinh City.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Rural Heritage Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes Dong Que Museum, activities, and eco-transfers.
Nam Dinh’s culinary scene is a highlight, with iconic dishes reflecting its agricultural and coastal heritage.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở Bò at Phở Cường (Giao Cù): ~50,000–70,000 VND (~$2–$2.80 USD).
Kem Xôi at Nguyen Du stalls: ~15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1 USD).
Bánh Xíu Páo at Xíu Páo Dư Dư (Tran Hung Dao): ~10,000–15,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.60 USD).
Bánh Gai at Bà Thị (Tran Hung Dao): ~15,000–20,000 VND (~$0.60–$0.80 USD).
Seafood at Quán Hải Sản Tươi Sống (Hai Hau): ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).
Where to Eat: Dong A Street for BBQ hotpot; Chợ Rồng for street food; Minh Khai for sweets like Siu Chau candy (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD/500g).
Highlights: “A foodie’s paradise” (Foody.vn, 4.6/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Visit morning (6:00–9:00 AM) for phở or evening (6:00–9:00 PM) for kem xôi; use a translation app for menus.
Choose high-turnover stalls for freshness; carry cash for vendors.
Combine with Chợ Rồng market (~1 km from city center) for a foodie day.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes street food tastings and eco-transfers.
Explore Nam Dinh’s rural charm by cycling through rice paddies, villages, and coastal paths, immersing yourself in local life.
What to Expect: Flat, scenic routes past rice fields and fishing villages like Giao Xuan; interact with friendly locals. Visit Vi Khe Bonsai Village for a cultural stop.
Cost: Bicycle rental ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); guided tours ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).
Location: Start from Nam Dinh City or Hai Hau; key routes include Vi Khe (~15 km) or Giao Thuy (~30 km).
Highlights: “A serene rural adventure” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.4/5 stars).
Tips:
Cycle in autumn (September–November, 18–28°C) for mild weather; bring water.
Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me); rent bikes from homestays or hotels.
Stop at local eateries for phở (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD); respect village customs.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Eco-Bike Village Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes bike rentals, Vi Khe visits, and eco-transfers [].
Nam Dinh’s festivals, held primarily in spring (lunar January–March), offer cultural immersion through music, rituals, and markets.
Key Festivals:
Vieng Market Festival (lunar January 7–8, Vu Ban): “Lucky” copper shopping and prayers for prosperity.
Cost: Free; items ~50,000–200,000 VND (~$2–$8 USD).
Phu Day Festival (lunar March 3–8, Vu Ban): Honors Goddess Lieu Hanh with processions and folk songs.
Cost: Free; donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).
Tran Temple Festival (lunar January 14–15, Tuc Mac): Celebrates Tran Dynasty victories with ceremonies.
Cost: Free; entry ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD).
Highlights: “A cultural extravaganza” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars) [].
Tips:
Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance; visit midnight for Vieng Market’s unique vibe.
Wear festive attire; bring cash for vendors; expect crowds.
Combine with Phu Day Relic Complex (~5 km from Vieng Market).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Immersion Tour (~2,000,000 VND, ~$80 USD) includes festival visits, temple tours, and eco-transfers.
Experience Nam Dinh’s hospitality by staying at a modern hotel or eco-conscious homestay, blending comfort with cultural immersion.
Top Options:
Nam Cuong Nam Dinh Hotel (Nam Dinh City): A 4-star hotel with modern amenities, near Vi Xuyen Park.
Cost: ~1,000,000–2,000,000 VND (~$40–$80 USD/night).
Contact: +84 228 3649 999.
Highlights: “Luxurious and central” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Giao Thuy Eco-Homestay (near Xuan Thuy National Park): Traditional stilt houses with eco-friendly practices.
Cost: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night).
Highlights: “Authentic and sustainable” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.3/5 stars).
Tips:
Book 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during Tet; homestays offer bike rentals (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD/day).
Choose homestays for eco-tourism; hotels for urban convenience near Chợ Rồng (~1 km).
Confirm amenities (Wi-Fi, English-speaking staff) via Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Cultural Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD, 3–4 days) includes homestays, all activities, and eco-transfers.
Xuan Thuy National Park (Source: Internet)Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September–November, 18–28°C) for mild weather; spring (February–April) for festivals; avoid August typhoons [].
Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456), especially for festivals. Most sites open 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, comfortable shoes; pack rain gear (summer) or layers (winter).
Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day); confirm prices at vendors to avoid overcharging.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables at festivals or markets; inform vendors of allergies; avoid rural roads at night.
Sustainability: Support local artisans (e.g., Vi Khe bonsai, ~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD); use reusable items; choose eco-tours [].
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at temples; greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD) for great service.
Navigation: Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me); combine attractions (e.g., Tran Temple and Vi Xuyen Park, ~10 km) for efficiency.
Vieng Market Festival (Source: Internet)Attractions:
Tran Temple/Phu Day: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/entry).
Xuan Thuy National Park: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); boat tours ~1,200,000 VND (~$48 USD).
Vi Xuyen Park/Vieng Market: Free; donations ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD).
Thinh Long Beach: Free; rentals ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD).
Dong Que Museum: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); activities ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).
Dining: Street food (phở, kem xôi): ~10,000–80,000 VND (~$0.40–$3.20 USD); restaurants: ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).
Transport:
From Hanoi: Bus + taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD); train + taxi: ~175,000–250,000 VND (~$7–$10 USD); motorbike: ~150,000–300,000 VND (~$6–$12 USD).
From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight + road: ~950,000–4,700,000 VND (~$38–$188 USD); train + road: ~850,000–2,150,000 VND (~$34–$86 USD).
From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~140,000–220,000 VND (~$5–$9 USD); taxi: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD); bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD).
Within Nam Dinh: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~130,000–210,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD).
Accommodation: Budget homestays: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night); mid-range hotels: ~800,000–1,500,000 VND (~$32–$60 USD); luxury: ~3,000,000 VND (~$120 USD) and up.
Total Daily Cost: ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD) (budget: ~$20–$35 USD; mid-range: ~$35–$50 USD; luxury: ~$50–$70 USD).
Dong Que Museum - Bảo tàng Đồng Quê (Source: Internet)The Nam Dinh region in Ninh Binh Province is a vibrant destination offering a rich tapestry of history, nature, and cuisine. From the spiritual depths of Tran Temple to the serene shores of Thinh Long Beach and the quirky charm of kem xôi, these 10 activities showcase Nam Dinh’s unique allure. Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Tours provide a sustainable way to explore this Red River Delta gem, ensuring an eco-friendly Nam Dinh Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves its heritage. Start your adventure now—browse our featured tours and book your Nam Dinh experience today!
Ready to discover the wonders of Tran Temple, Thinh Long Beach, and kem xôi? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Nam Dinh’s cultural and natural splendor!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.
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