Nam Dinh Phở: Savor the Iconic Beef Noodle Soup in Ninh Binh Province

In the heart of Ninh Binh Province’s Nam Dinh region, now a ward following Vietnam’s administrative merger, Nam Dinh phở reigns as a culinary masterpiece. This iconic beef noodle soup, born in the village of Giao Cù, is a symbol of Vietnamese gastronomy, celebrated for its fragrant broth, tender beef, and delicate rice noodles. Unlike phở found elsewhere, Nam Dinh’s version offers a distinct sweetness and depth, making it a must-try for food lovers. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to taste this delicacy through our curated food tours—book via links throughout this guide. Experience the soul of Ninh Binh’s cuisine at its birthplace!

Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability, cultural immersion, and expert-guided tours. Our Nam Dinh phở tours feature eco-conscious exploration, partnering with local eateries to preserve culinary traditions and support communities. Aligned with Ninh Binh Province’s “Cultural Preservation” initiative, we use low-impact transport like bicycles and contribute to local economies. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless culinary journey. Discover our tours—book via the links on this page!

Nam Dinh phở, originating from the Nam Dinh region of Ninh Binh Province, is Vietnam’s quintessential beef noodle soup, renowned for its rich, aromatic broth and fresh ingredients. Crafted with a broth simmered for hours using beef bones, ginger, and fish sauce, it’s paired with soft rice noodles and thinly sliced beef, often served with lime, chili, and fresh herbs. This dish, deeply rooted in the region’s agricultural heritage, reflects the simplicity and sophistication of Vietnamese cuisine. Affordable and widely available, a bowl costs as little as ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD), making it a budget-friendly delight. Pair your phở experience with visits to nearby cultural sites like Phu Day Relic Complex for a complete Ninh Binh adventure.

Administrative Update: Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, 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 access to culinary hotspots with improved infrastructure. Ninh Binh Province’s focus on “Culinary Tourism” elevates the Nam Dinh region’s food scene.

Nam Dinh phở stands out for its meticulous preparation and balanced flavors:

• Broth: Simmered for 8–12 hours with beef bones, grilled ginger, onions, and fish sauce, creating a sweet, savory depth.

• Beef: Thinly sliced, lightly seared for tenderness, retaining natural sweetness.

• Noodles: Soft, flat rice noodles, handmade daily for a delicate texture.

• Accompaniments: Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro), lime, chili peppers, and vinegar, harmonizing tangy, spicy, and aromatic notes.

• Preparation: Many eateries grill aromatics before adding them to the broth, enhancing its fragrance.

This combination, perfected in Giao Cù village, sets Nam Dinh phở apart from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City variations.

1. Phở Cường

A legendary eatery in the Nam Dinh region, known for its traditional recipe and bustling atmosphere.

• Cost: ~50,000–70,000 VND (~$2–$2.80 USD/bowl).

• Highlights: “The gold standard of phở” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Arrive early (7:00–9:00 AM) to beat the crowds; try with extra herbs.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD).

2. Phở Tăng

Famous for its fragrant broth and generous beef portions, located in the heart of the Nam Dinh region.

• Cost: ~60,000–80,000 VND (~$2.40–$3.20 USD/bowl).

• Highlights: “Authentic and soul-warming” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Pair with iced green tea (~10,000 VND, ~$0.40 USD).

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD).

3. Phở Đan

A local favorite offering a cozy setting and consistent quality, ideal for first-time phở tasters.

• Cost: ~50,000–70,000 VND (~$2–$2.80 USD/bowl).

• Highlights: “Perfect broth balance” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Add a side of quẩy (fried dough sticks) for ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD).

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Food Trail (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD).

4. Phở Sinh

Known for its artisanal noodles and robust broth, a short ride from cultural sites.

• Cost: ~60,000–80,000 VND (~$2.40–$3.20 USD/bowl).

• Highlights: “A phở lover’s dream” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit for lunch (11:00 AM–1:00 PM) for the freshest batches.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Gastronomic Adventure Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD).

From Hanoi (90–100 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus: From Giap Bat Station to Ninh Binh City, then taxi to Nam Dinh eateries.

  • Cost: Bus: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD); taxi: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

  • Duration: ~1.5–2 hours.

• Train: Reunification Express to Ninh Binh Station, then taxi.

  • Cost: Train: ~75,000–150,000 VND (~$3–$6 USD); taxi: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours.

• Motorbike: Scenic ride via National Highway 1A or Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway.

  • Cost: Rental: ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day); fuel: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

  • Duration: ~1.5–2 hours.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) include eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (1,300 km, ~2 hours flight + 2 hours road)

• Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport, then bus/taxi to Nam Dinh.

  • Cost: Flight: ~750,000–1,750,000 VND (~$30–$70 USD); bus: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD); taxi: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours flight + ~2 hours road.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) include transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (15–20 km, ~20–30 minutes)

• Motorbike: Quick ride via Highway 38B.

  • Cost: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).

  • Duration: ~20–30 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: Convenient and affordable.

  • Cost: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip).

  • Duration: ~20 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) include transfers.

Within the Nam Dinh Region (1–5 km, ~5–15 minutes)

• Bicycle: Ideal for short distances between eateries.

  • Cost: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).

  • Duration: ~5–15 minutes.

• Motorbike: Fast and flexible.

  • Cost: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD).

  • Duration: ~5–10 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) include eco-transfers.

Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take Highway 38B to Giao Cù village for phở hotspots; from Hanoi, use National Highway 1A then Highway 38B. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Morning (6:00–9:00 AM): Freshest broth and liveliest atmosphere; ideal in spring (February–April) or autumn (September–November) for mild weather (15–28°C).

• Year-Round: Phở is a daily staple; summer (May–August) offers warm days (25–35°C), while winter (December–January) brings cooler vibes (10–20°C).

• Festivals: Visit during the Phu Day Festival (lunar March) to pair phở with cultural events; book tours 2–3 weeks ahead.

• Tip: Early mornings ensure the best broth; avoid peak lunch hours (12:00–1:00 PM) for shorter waits.

• Phở: ~50,000–80,000 VND (~$2–$3.20 USD/bowl).

• Sides/Drinks: Quẩy: ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD); iced tea/soft drinks: ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 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: ~950,000–2,050,000 VND (~$38–$82 USD).

  • From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~140,000–220,000 VND (~$6–$9 USD); taxi: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD).

  • Within Nam Dinh Region: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~130,000–210,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD).

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses: ~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.

• 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 seamless planning.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance for festival seasons via Legend Travel Group or 12GoAsia (+84 938 123 456). Eateries open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Pack Smart: Bring small cash (VND) for vendors, reusable water bottle, and light clothing for warm days.

• Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day); confirm prices at smaller stalls.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; avoid eating during peak hours for a calmer experience.

• Sustainability: Support local eateries; use reusable items to reduce waste.

• Cultural Respect: Thank vendors (“cảm ơn”); tip ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD) for exceptional service; respect dining customs.

• Navigation: Allow 1–2 hours per eatery visit; combine with nearby Vi Khe Bonsai Village for a half-day itinerary.

Our sustainable culinary tours immerse you in the region’s food culture:

• Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Visit Phở Cường, Phở Đan, local markets. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Phở Tăng, Phu Day Relic Complex, cooking demo. Includes transfers and snacks.

• Gastronomic Adventure Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD/person): Phở Sinh, Vi Khe Bonsai Village, seafood tasting. Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Food Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Nam Dinh phở, Trang An, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night). 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 phở, a culinary treasure of Ninh Binh Province’s Nam Dinh region, offers a taste of Vietnam’s soul with its fragrant broth and fresh ingredients. From historic eateries in Giao Cù to cultural sites nearby, this dish is a gateway to the region’s heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Tours provide a sustainable way to savor phở, ensuring a sustainable Nam Dinh Travel experience that supports local artisans and preservation. Don’t miss this flavorful journey—browse our featured tours and book your Nam Dinh phở adventure today!
Ready to savor Nam Dinh’s iconic phở? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary 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