Discover Nam Dinh’s must-visit destinations in Ninh Binh Province, from Tran Temple to Xuan Thuy National Park. Explore costs, highlights, and book sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable adventure.
Capture the historic beauty of Ninh Binh’s cultural gem (Source: Internet)The Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a captivating gem in the Red River Delta, offering a rich tapestry of historical landmarks, pristine natural wonders, and vibrant cultural experiences. From the sacred Tran Temple to the serene Thinh Long Beach and the UNESCO-recognized Xuan Thuy National Park, Nam Dinh’s attractions are a must for travelers seeking authenticity and diversity. Whether you’re drawn to spiritual heritage, ecological adventures, or lively festivals like Vieng Market, Nam Dinh delivers unforgettable moments. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to explore these treasures through our eco-friendly tours—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into our comprehensive guide to Nam Dinh’s unmissable destinations, featuring top attractions, updated costs, and sustainable travel tips for an enriching journey in Ninh Binh Province.
Photograph the lively allure of Ninh Binh’s traditions (Source: Internet)Nam Dinh’s attractions are a compelling reason to visit:
Historical Depth: Explore Tran Temple and Phu Day Relic Complex, reflecting Vietnam’s dynastic and spiritual heritage.
Natural Beauty: Discover pristine beaches, national parks, and serene lakes like Phong Loc.
Cultural Vibrancy: Immerse yourself in festivals like Vieng Market and local traditions.
Sustainable Tourism: Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours use low-impact transport and support local communities, aligning with Ninh Binh’s sustainability goals.
Accessibility: Just ~90–100 km from Hanoi, Nam Dinh is perfect for day trips or extended stays.
Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure an authentic and eco-conscious experience. Book now to explore Nam Dinh with Legend Travel Group!
Thinh Long Beach (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, enhancing 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.
Tran Temple (Source: Internet)Nam Dinh’s attractions offer a blend of history, nature, and culture, each with unique appeal. Below are the top destinations you can’t miss, with details on significance, costs, and travel tips.
A pristine 3-km stretch of white sand in Hai Hau, Thinh Long Beach is a serene coastal escape ideal for relaxation and seafood dining.
Highlights:
Soft sands, gentle waves, and casuarina trees create a tranquil setting.
Local restaurants serve fresh seafood like crab and shrimp (~100,000–300,000 VND, ~$4–$12 USD).
Retains unspoiled beauty, less commercialized than other Vietnamese beaches.
Cost: Free access; umbrella/sunbed rentals ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); parking ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD).
Location: Hai Ly, Hai Hau, Nam Dinh region (~30 km from Nam Dinh City).
Significance: A key coastal attraction, perfect for leisure and eco-tourism.
Tips:
Visit at sunrise (5:00–7:00 AM) for solitude; avoid summer weekends for fewer crowds.
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.
A sacred complex in Tuc Mac Village, Tran Temple honors the Tran Dynasty (1225–1400), celebrating their victories against Mongol invaders.
Highlights:
Three temples: Thien Truong (Upper), Co Trach (Lower, for Tran Hung Dao), and Trung Hoa (Central, built 2000).
Surrounded by the Vinh Giang River, symbolizing prosperity.
Hosts the Tran Temple Festival (lunar January 14–15), with rituals and prayers.
Cost: Entrance ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/person); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).
Location: Tuc Mac Village, Nam Dinh region (~10 km from Nam Dinh City).
Significance: A cultural and spiritual landmark, reflecting Vietnam’s heroic past.
Tips:
Visit early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) for tranquility; dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees).
Book festival tours 2–3 weeks in advance; combine with Pho Minh Pagoda (~1 km).
Use Highway 38B for access.
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 historical monuments.
Highlights:
Clean lake waters, shaded pathways, and a vibrant morning exercise scene.
Features the Tran Hung Dao Monument, a symbol of local pride, and Tran Te Xuong’s Grave, honoring the satirical poet.
Tet (lunar January) festivities draw locals for prayers and celebrations.
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 center.
Significance: A cultural and recreational hub, blending nature and history.
Tips:
Visit at sunrise (5:00–7:00 AM) for calm views; autumn (18–28°C) is ideal.
Walk to Chợ Rồng market (~1 km) for street food like bánh mì Ba Lan (~10,000 VND, ~$0.40 USD).
Respect monuments; avoid festival season for quieter visits.
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 and paradise for eco-tourists and birdwatchers.
Highlights:
Spans 12,000 hectares with mangroves, tidal flats, and 215 bird species, including rare ones like the Black-faced Spoonbill.
Peak bird migration: October–April; boat tours explore mudflats and forests.
Home to 110 aquatic plants and 500 benthos species, supporting conservation efforts.
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/boat).
Location: Giao Thien, Giao Thuy, Nam Dinh region (~35 km from Nam Dinh City).
Significance: A key ecological site, promoting sustainable tourism and biodiversity preservation.
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 homestays (~300,000 VND, ~$12 USD/night).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Birdwatching Eco-Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes Xuan Thuy, boat tours, and eco-transfers.
A vibrant cultural event held annually on lunar January 7–8 in Vu Ban, Vieng Market is famous for its “lucky” copper purchases and festive atmosphere.
Highlights:
Bustling stalls sell copper crafts, Siu Chau candy (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD/500g), and local goods.
Linked to legends of copper casting; visitors pray for prosperity at nearby temples.
Midnight-to-dawn market hours create a mystical experience.
Cost: Free entry; 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).
Significance: A cultural highlight, showcasing local traditions and community spirit.
Tips:
Visit midnight for the unique vibe; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance.
Haggle politely; bring cash (VND); combine with Phu Day Relic Complex (~5 km).
Expect crowds; secure valuables.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Immersion Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Vieng Market, temple visits, and eco-transfers.
An open-air museum in Giao Thuy, Dong Que celebrates rural Vietnamese life with historical replicas and interactive activities.
Highlights:
Traditional houses, rice fields, and artifacts showcase Red River Delta heritage.
Activities include fishing, rice grinding, and vegetable planting (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).
Surrounded by lush fields, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s agricultural past.
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).
Significance: A cultural bridge connecting past and present rural Vietnam.
Tips:
Visit morning (8:00–11:00 AM) for cooler weather; wear comfortable shoes.
Book guided tours for hands-on experiences; combine with Xuan Thuy (~5 km).
Use Route 21A for access.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Rural Heritage Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes Dong Que, activities, and eco-transfers.
Vi Xuyen Park (Source: Internet)Bus: Giap Bat to Nam Dinh Bus Station (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD), then taxi to Tran Temple (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).
Train: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh Station (~75,000–150,000 VND, ~$3–$6 USD), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).
Motorbike: Rental ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day), fuel ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Transport Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes eco-transfers.
Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport (~750,000–1,750,000 VND, ~$30–$70 USD), then bus/taxi (~200,000–1,200,000 VND, ~$8–$48 USD).
Train + Road: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh (~750,000–2,000,000 VND, ~$30–$80 USD, 32–35 hours), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Flight & Heritage Tour (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) includes flights and transfers.
Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).
Taxi/Grab: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip).
Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day), ~45–60 minutes.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Explorer Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes transfers.
Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).
Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~10,000–20,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.80 USD).
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Shuttle Tour (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) includes eco-transfers.
Route Tip: Use Highway 38B for Tran Temple/Vu Ban; Route 21A for Giao Thuy; Highway 37B for Hai Hau. Offline maps recommended.
Xuan Thuy National Park (Source: Internet)Best Time to Visit:
Spring (February–April): Mild (15–25°C), ideal for festivals like Vieng Market; book early.
Autumn (September–November): Cool (18–28°C), perfect for beach and park visits.
Avoid summer (May–August): Hot, rainy (25–35°C); winter (December–January) is cool but misty.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance for festivals via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456). Most sites open 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, comfortable shoes; rain gear for summer; modest clothing for temples.
Budget Wisely: Entry fees ~30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.20–$2 USD); daily costs ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD, including transport/dining).
Safety: Secure valuables at festivals or markets; follow temple etiquette; carry a translation app for signage.
Sustainability: Support local artisans (e.g., copper crafts at Vieng Market); use reusable items; choose eco-tours to preserve sites.
Navigation: Allow 1–3 hours per site; combine Tran Temple and Vieng Market for a day trip; use Maps.me for rural routes.
Vieng Market Festival (Source: Internet)Entry Fees:
Tran Temple/Phu Day: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD).
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): ~15,000–80,000 VND (~$0.60–$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).
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 treasure trove of unmissable destinations, from the spiritual Tran Temple to the ecological wonders of Xuan Thuy National Park and the vibrant Vieng Market Festival. These attractions showcase Nam Dinh’s rich history, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, making it a must-visit for travelers. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours offer a sustainable way to explore, supporting local communities and preserving Ninh Binh’s heritage. Plan your Nam Dinh adventure now—browse our featured tours and book your unforgettable journey today!
Ready to discover Nam Dinh’s cultural treasures? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable 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.
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