Climate Guide for Nam Dinh Region: Best Times to Visit Ninh Binh Province

The Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a cultural and natural gem in the Red River Delta, boasting attractions like Tran Temple, Xuan Thuy National Park, and Thinh Long Beach. Understanding its climate is key to planning a trip that aligns with your preferences, whether you seek vibrant festivals, serene beach days, or eco-tourism adventures. Characterized by a humid subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, Nam Dinh offers varied experiences year-round. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, provides eco-friendly tours to explore this region’s treasures—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into our comprehensive climate guide for the Nam Dinh region, including weather patterns, best travel times, costs, and sustainable travel tips for an unforgettable Ninh Binh journey.

The Nam Dinh region’s climate enhances its appeal for travelers:

• Year-Round Appeal: Mild springs and autumns are perfect for cultural exploration, while summers offer lush landscapes and winters provide cool tranquility.

• Cultural Festivals: Spring hosts vibrant events like Vieng Market Festival (lunar January) and Phu Day Festival (lunar March).

• Eco-Tourism: Xuan Thuy National Park thrives in the dry season (October–April) for birdwatching, supported by sustainable practices.

• Culinary Delights: Enjoy Nam Dinh phở and bánh xíu páo in any season at local eateries.

• Sustainable Travel: Legend Travel Group’s tours use low-impact transport and support local communities, aligning with Ninh Binh’s eco-tourism goals.

Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure a responsible visit. Book now to experience Nam Dinh’s diverse offerings!

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.

The Nam Dinh region experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, influenced by its coastal location and the Red River Delta’s monsoon patterns. The average annual temperature is ~23–24°C, with high humidity (80–85%) and abundant sunlight, supporting lush rice paddies and mangroves. The region’s 74-km coastline and river systems (Red, Day, Ninh Co) contribute to its fertile soil and humid conditions, ideal for agriculture and eco-tourism.

Seasonal Breakdown

• Spring (February–April):

  • Temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F).

  • Weather: Mild, partly cloudy, occasional light rain; humidity ~80%.

  • Highlights: Ideal for festivals (e.g., Vieng Market, Phu Day) and cultural sites like Tran Temple.

  • Pros: Pleasant for outdoor activities; blooming landscapes.

  • Cons: Occasional drizzle; festival crowds increase costs.

• Summer (May–August):

  • Temperature: 25–35°C (77–95°F).

  • Weather: Hot, humid, heavy rainfall (July–August); typhoon risk in August.

  • Highlights: Lush greenery; rice harvest season (May–July); Thinh Long Beach visits.

  • Pros: Budget-friendly with 10–20% tour discounts; vibrant mangroves.

  • Cons: Rain disrupts outdoor plans; high humidity.

• Autumn (September–November):

  • Temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F).

  • Weather: Cool, dry, clear skies; occasional early typhoons in September.

  • Highlights: Golden rice fields; peak birdwatching at Xuan Thuy National Park.

  • Pros: Stunning scenery; comfortable for cycling and hiking.

  • Cons: High season; book accommodations early.

• Winter (December–January):

  • Temperature: 10–20°C (50–68°F).

  • Weather: Cool, dry, occasional fog; mild compared to northern Vietnam.

  • Highlights: Quiet temple visits; pre-festival market buzz (Vieng Market prep).

  • Pros: Fewer tourists; budget-friendly.

  • Cons: Limited outdoor activities; chilly mornings.

Rainy and Dry Seasons

• Rainy Season (May–October): Peaks in July–August with heavy downpours; rainfall averages 1,500–2,000 mm annually. Typhoons may occur in August–September, affecting coastal areas like Thinh Long Beach.

• Dry Season (November–April): Minimal rain, cooler temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploration and festivals.

• Overall Best: November–April (Dry Season)

  • Perfect for birdwatching at Xuan Thuy National Park, temple visits, and festivals like Vieng Market (lunar January) and Phu Day (lunar March). Cool, dry weather (15–25°C) ensures comfort for cycling and hiking.

• For Festivals: February–April

  • Experience Vieng Market Festival (lunar January 7–8, typically February) and Phu Day Festival (lunar March 3–8) for cultural immersion. Book early due to crowds.

• For Eco-Tourism: October–November

  • Peak bird migration at Xuan Thuy; golden rice fields enhance photography. Mild weather (18–28°C) suits outdoor activities.

• For Budget Travel: May–August

  • Lower costs (10–20% tour discounts); fewer tourists; ideal for indoor sites like Dong Que Museum during rain.

• Avoid: August

  • Heavy rains and typhoon risks disrupt travel; coastal areas may be unsafe.

• Spring (February–April):

  • Pack light layers and a waterproof jacket for occasional rain.

  • Book festival tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456).

  • Visit early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) to avoid festival crowds at Vieng Market or Phu Day.

• Summer (May–August):

  • Bring rain gear (umbrella, poncho), breathable clothing, and sunscreen for humid, sunny days.

  • Focus on indoor attractions like Tran Temple or Dong Que Museum (~30,000–50,000 VND, ~$1.20–$2 USD entry) during heavy rain.

  • Check weather forecasts for typhoon warnings, especially in August.

• Autumn (September–November):

  • Pack light clothing and a jacket for cooler evenings; comfortable shoes for cycling.

  • Reserve accommodations early due to high season (~400,000–2,000,000 VND, ~$16–$80 USD/night).

  • Visit Xuan Thuy at dawn for birdwatching (guided tours ~200,000 VND, ~$8 USD).

• Winter (December–January):

  • Pack warm layers (sweaters, scarves) for chilly mornings; temperatures drop to 10°C.

  • Enjoy quiet temple visits and local markets; minimal crowds reduce costs (~300,000–1,500,000 VND, ~$12–$60 USD/night).

  • Stay hydrated despite cooler weather; carry a reusable water bottle.

• Accommodation:

  • Budget guesthouses/homestays: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night).

  • Mid-range hotels: ~800,000–1,500,000 VND (~$32–$60 USD).

  • Luxury resorts: ~3,000,000 VND (~$120 USD) and up.

• Dining:

  • Street food (phở, bánh xíu páo): ~10,000–80,000 VND (~$0.40–$3.20 USD).

  • Restaurants: ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD/meal).

• Attractions:

  • Temple entry (Tran, Phu Day): ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD).

  • Xuan Thuy National Park: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); guided tours: ~200,000–500,000 VND (~$8–$20 USD).

  • Dong Que Museum: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi (90–100 km): 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 (1,300 km): Flight + road: ~950,000–2,950,000 VND (~$38–$118 USD); train + road: ~950,000–2,200,000 VND (~$38–$88 USD).

  • From Ninh Binh City (15–30 km): 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).

• Tours: ~1,000,000–3,500,000 VND (~$40–$140 USD), depending on season and inclusions.

• 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).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for cost savings and eco-transfers.

Our sustainable tours are tailored to Nam Dinh’s climate, ensuring optimal experiences:

• Festival Immersion Tour (~2,000,000 VND, ~$80 USD/person): Vieng Market Festival, Phu Day Festival, local markets; best in spring. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Birdwatching Eco-Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD/person): Xuan Thuy National Park, mangrove boat trip; ideal in autumn. Includes transfers and snacks.

• Coastal Getaway Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Thinh Long Beach, seafood dining, Vi Khe Bonsai Village; great in summer. Includes transfers and lunch.

• Ninh Binh Cultural Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Nam Dinh highlights, Trang An, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night); year-round. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!

Nam Dinh region in Ninh Binh Province offers a diverse climate that shapes its appeal, from vibrant spring festivals to serene autumn landscapes and budget-friendly summer visits. With a humid subtropical climate averaging 23–24°C, the dry season (November–April) is ideal for cultural and eco-tourism, while the rainy season (May–October) suits indoor exploration. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours provide a sustainable way to experience Nam Dinh’s cultural, natural, and culinary treasures, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel journey that supports local communities and conservation. Plan your trip now—browse our featured tours and book your Nam Dinh adventure today!
Ready to explore Nam Dinh’s cultural and natural wonders? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Ninh Binh adventure!

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.

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group