Top Activities in Nam Dinh Region: Unforgettable Experiences in Ninh Binh Province

The Nam Dinh region, now a vibrant ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative merger, is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences in the Red River Delta. From savoring iconic Nam Dinh phở to exploring sacred sites like Tran Temple, this region offers diverse activities that blend tradition with natural beauty. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature enthusiast, Nam Dinh promises unforgettable moments. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to dive into these experiences through our eco-friendly tours—book via links throughout this guide. Start planning your Nam Dinh adventure today

The Nam Dinh region captivates travelers with its unique offerings:

• Rich Heritage: Home to Tran Temple and Phu Day Relic Complex, reflecting the Tran Dynasty’s legacy.

• Culinary Delights: Renowned for dishes like phở, bánh nhãn, and bánh mì chân cầu, showcasing local flavors.

• Natural Beauty: Features serene rice paddies, Thinh Long Beach, and Xuan Thuy National Park for eco-tourism.

• Vibrant Festivals: Annual events like the Tran Temple Festival offer cultural immersion.

• Sustainable Tourism: Legend Travel Group’s tours support local communities and eco-conscious practices.

Our curated tours, displayed around this article, ensure a meaningful, responsible experience. Book now to explore Nam Dinh sustainably

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 infrastructure and access to Nam Dinh’s attractions. This guide highlights activities in the Nam Dinh region, seamlessly integrated into Ninh Binh’s tourism landscape.

1. Savor Culinary Masterpieces in Local Restaurants

Indulge in Nam Dinh’s iconic dishes at family-run eateries and street stalls, known for their warm hospitality and authentic flavors.

• Must-Try:

  • Nam Dinh Phở: Fragrant beef noodle soup at Phở Cường (~50,000–70,000 VND, ~$2–$2.80 USD/bowl).

  • Bánh Mì Chân Cầu: Pâté-egg sandwich near Đỗ Quang Bridge (~15,000–25,000 VND, ~$0.60–$1 USD).

  • Bánh Nhãn: Crispy longan-shaped sweets at Bánh Nhãn Bà Triệu (~100,000–150,000 VND, ~$4–$6 USD/500g).

• Highlights: “A foodie’s paradise” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit early morning for fresh phở or evening for lively street food; bring cash for smaller vendors.

• Location: Giao Cù village, Đỗ Quang Bridge, Hai Hau.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes tastings and eco-transfers.

2. Explore Historical and Cultural Sites

Discover Nam Dinh’s rich history through its sacred temples and museums, offering insights into Vietnam’s past.

• Activities:

  • Visit Tran Temple to honor Tran Dynasty kings and Tran Hung Dao (~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD entry).

  • Explore Phu Day Relic Complex, dedicated to Goddess Lieu Hanh (~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD).

  • Wander Dong Que Museum for a glimpse of rural life (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD).

• Highlights: “A cultural journey” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); combine sites for a half-day tour.

• Location: Tuc Mac Village, Giao Thuy.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes guided visits.

3. Immerse in Vibrant Festivals

Join Nam Dinh’s colorful festivals to experience local traditions and spiritual celebrations.

• Key Events:

  • Tran Temple Festival (lunar January 14–15, typically February): Processions and rituals honoring the Tran Dynasty (free with temple entry, ~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD).

  • Phu Day Festival (lunar March): Celebrates Goddess Lieu Hanh with performances (free with entry, ~30,000 VND, ~$1.20 USD).

• Highlights: “A cultural spectacle” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for festivals; arrive early for the best views.

• Location: Tran Temple, Phu Day Complex.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Festival Immersion Tour (~2,000,000 VND, ~$80 USD) includes festival access and meals.

4. Cycle Through Scenic Rural Landscapes

Pedal through Nam Dinh’s lush rice paddies and quaint villages, a perfect way to soak in the region’s natural beauty.

• Activities: Cycle to Vi Khe Bonsai Village or along Thinh Long Beach trails.

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

• Highlights: “A peaceful escape” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Rent bikes from local homestays; visit in autumn (September–November) for cooler weather.

• Location: Vi Khe, Giao Thuy.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Eco-Bike Village Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes rentals and guides.

5. Experience Eco-Tourism at Xuan Thuy National Park

Engage in birdwatching and eco-tourism at this RAMSAR site, a biodiversity hotspot for migratory birds.

• Activities: Guided birdwatching, mangrove walks (November–April peak season).

• Cost: Entrance: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD); guided tours: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD).

• Highlights: “A nature lover’s dream” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Bring binoculars; book tours for expert guides.

• Location: Giao Thuy.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Sustainable Birdwatching Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes eco-transfers.

6. Relax at Thinh Long Beach

Unwind on this 3km stretch of white sand, ideal for swimming and beachside dining.

• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, seafood feasts.

• Cost: Free access; umbrella/sunbed rentals: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); meals: ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).

• Highlights: “A serene coastal gem” (Tripadvisor, 4.4/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit at sunrise for tranquility; try grilled shrimp at Quán Hải Sản Tươi Sống.

• Location: Hai Hau.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Getaway Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes beach visits and dining.

From Hanoi (90–100 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus: Giap Bat Station to Ninh Binh City, then taxi.

  • 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: 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.

  • 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 flights and transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (15–30 km, ~20–45 minutes)

• Motorbike: Via Highway 38B or 37B.

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

  • Duration: ~20–45 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip); ~20–30 minutes.

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); ~45–60 minutes.

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

Within the Nam Dinh Region (1–15 km, ~5–30 minutes)

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); ~5–30 minutes.

• Motorbike: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~10,000–20,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.80 USD); ~5–20 minutes.

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

Route Tip: Use Highway 38B for Tran Temple or 37B for Thinh Long Beach; offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) recommended. Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Spring (February–April): Mild (15–25°C), ideal for festivals and cycling; book festival tours 2–3 weeks ahead.

• Autumn (September–November): Cool (18–28°C), great for outdoor activities and beach visits.

• Dry Season (November–April): Comfortable (15–30°C), best for eco-tourism and cultural exploration.

• Rainy Season (May–October): Warm (25–35°C), occasional showers; budget-friendly with 10–20% tour discounts; indoor dining and museums unaffected.

• Tip: Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) for food and outdoor activities; evenings for festivals and street food.

• Dining: ~15,000–300,000 VND (~$0.60–$12 USD/meal); drinks: ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD).

• Attractions: ~30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.20–$2 USD/entry); guided tours: ~100,000–200,000 VND (~$4–$8 USD).

• Activities: Bike rentals: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); festival entry: free with site admission.

• 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 (~$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 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 cost savings and eco-transfers.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance, especially for festivals, via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456).

• Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, comfortable shoes, and small cash (VND) for vendors.

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

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; inform vendors of allergies; follow traffic rules when cycling.

• Sustainability: Support local vendors; use reusable items; choose eco-tours to preserve Nam Dinh’s heritage.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at temples; thank locals (“cảm ơn”); tip ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD) for great service.

• Navigation: Allow 1–3 hours per activity; combine dining and cultural sites for efficient itineraries. Offline maps recommended.

Our sustainable tours offer immersive experiences in Nam Dinh’s culture and cuisine:

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

• Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Tran Temple, Phu Day, Vi Khe Bonsai Village. Includes transfers and snacks.

• Foodie Coastal Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD/person): Thinh Long Beach, seafood, bánh nhãn tasting. Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Cultural Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Nam Dinh activities, 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

The Nam Dinh region in Ninh Binh Province offers a rich tapestry of activities, from savoring local delicacies to exploring historical temples and joining vibrant festivals. Its blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit destination. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours provide a sustainable way to experience these highlights, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves Ninh Binh’s charm. Don’t wait—browse our featured tours and book your Nam Dinh adventure today!
Ready to discover Nam Dinh’s cultural and natural wonders? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ninh Binh’s authentic allure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group