Discover why the Nam Dinh region in Ninh Binh Province is a must-visit for its historical sites, serene landscapes, and unique cuisine. Explore top reasons, costs, and book sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable adventure.
Dive into the serene charm of Ninh Binh TravelThe Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a hidden gem in the Red River Delta, offering a perfect blend of cultural heritage, tranquil beauty, and culinary delights. Unlike the bustling streets of Hanoi or the intricate Khmer architecture of Tra Vinh, Nam Dinh captivates with its peaceful ambiance, historic landmarks, and mouthwatering local specialties. From the sacred Tran Temple to the serene Vi Xuyen Lake and iconic dishes like phở bò and bánh gai, this region provides an authentic Vietnamese experience. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to explore Nam Dinh’s unique charm through our eco-friendly tours—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into our comprehensive guide to why Nam Dinh is a must-visit, including top attractions, updated costs, and sustainable travel tips for an unforgettable journey in Ninh Binh Province.
Nam Dinh stands out as a compelling destination for travelers:
Rich History: Home to historic sites like Tran Temple and monuments honoring Vietnam’s heroes, offering deep cultural insights.
Serene Atmosphere: Tranquil lakes, beaches, and villages provide a peaceful escape from urban chaos.
Unique Cuisine: Savor local specialties like phở bò, bánh xíu páo, and kem xôi, reflecting Nam Dinh’s culinary innovation.
Sustainable Tourism: Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours use low-impact transport and support local communities, aligning with Ninh Binh’s sustainability goals.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with local traditions through festivals, markets, and authentic community interactions.
Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure an enriching and responsible visit. Book now to discover Nam Dinh with Legend Travel Group!
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 eliminated, 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.
Start your Ninh Binh Travel with tranquil vistas (Source: Internet)Nam Dinh’s unique blend of history, tranquility, and cuisine makes it a standout destination. Below are the key reasons to visit, with details on what to expect, costs, and tips.
Nam Dinh is a treasure trove of historical landmarks that celebrate Vietnam’s storied past and cultural icons.
Key Attractions:
Tran Temple (Tuc Mac Village): A sacred complex honoring Tran Dynasty heroes, featuring intricate architecture and serene courtyards.
Cost: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/entry); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).
Highlights: “A spiritual journey through history” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Phu Day Relic Complex (Vu Ban): Dedicated to Goddess Lieu Hanh, a UNESCO-recognized Mother Goddess site, offering cultural depth.
Cost: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/entry).
Highlights: “A tranquil cultural gem” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).
Tran Quoc Tuan Monument (Vi Xuyen Park): A symbol of Nam Dinh’s pride, honoring a national hero.
Cost: Free; donations ~5,000–10,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.40 USD).
Tran Te Xuong’s Grave (Vi Xuyen Park): A tribute to the renowned Vietnamese poet, ideal for literary enthusiasts.
Cost: Free.
Cultural Significance: Nam Dinh’s studious legacy, exemplified by figures like mathematician Luong The Vinh and philosopher Dao Su Tich, adds intellectual depth.
Tips:
Visit early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) for fewer crowds and cooler weather (15–25°C in spring/autumn).
Dress modestly at temples (covered shoulders, knees); cover cloths provided.
Combine Tran Temple and Vi Xuyen Park (~10 km apart) for a half-day itinerary.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes guided visits to Tran Temple and Phu Day.
Nam Dinh’s serene landscapes and laid-back lifestyle offer a refreshing escape from urban stress.
Key Attractions:
Vi Xuyen Lake and Park (Nam Dinh City): A tranquil urban oasis with clean lake waters, shaded pathways, and morning exercise groups.
Cost: Free; tea/snacks ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD).
Highlights: “A calming retreat” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Thinh Long Beach (Hai Hau): A 3-km white sand beach with gentle waves, perfect for relaxation.
Cost: Free; umbrella/sunbed rentals ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); seafood ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).
Highlights: “A serene coastal escape” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.4/5 stars).
Vi Khe Bonsai Village: Lush gardens with miniature trees, ideal for quiet strolls and nature appreciation.
Cost: Free; bonsai purchases ~100,000–500,000 VND (~$4–$20 USD).
Lifestyle: Unlike Hanoi’s hustle, Nam Dinh’s leisurely pace, with locals cycling through rice paddies or gathering at markets, fosters a sense of calm.
Tips:
Visit at sunrise (5:00–7:00 AM) for tranquil lake or beach views; autumn (18–28°C) is ideal.
Rent a bicycle (~50,000 VND, ~$2 USD/day) for park or village exploration.
Avoid festival seasons (lunar January–March) for quieter visits.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Getaway Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Thinh Long Beach and Vi Xuyen Park.
Nam Dinh’s culinary scene is a highlight, with dishes that blend tradition and innovation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở Bò: Sweet, aromatic beef noodle soup, best at Phở Cường or Phở Cụ Tặng.
Cost: ~50,000–80,000 VND (~$2–$3.20 USD/bowl).
Highlights: “Vietnam’s finest phở” (Foody.vn, 4.7/5 stars).
Bánh Xíu Páo: Flaky pastry with char siu pork, served at Xíu Páo Dư Dư.
Cost: ~10,000–15,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.60 USD/piece).
Kem Xôi: Ice cream with sticky rice, topped with coconut cream, found at Nguyen Du stalls.
Cost: ~15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1 USD/bowl).
Bánh Gai: Sticky rice cake with mung beans, available at Bà Thị Gai Cake.
Cost: ~15,000–20,000 VND (~$0.60–$0.80 USD/cake).
Siu Chau Candy: Nutty, crispy candy, sold at Minh Khai shops.
Cost: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/500g).
Experience: Enjoy street food at Chợ Rồng or dine at coastal seafood restaurants near Thinh Long Beach.
Tips:
Visit morning (6:00–9:00 AM) for fresh phở or evening (6:00–9:00 PM) for kem xôi; use a translation app for dietary needs.
Support family-run stalls for authenticity; combine with market visits like Vieng Market (lunar January).
Carry cash (VND) for vendors; stalls charge ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD) for drinks.
Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes phở, bánh xíu páo, and kem xôi tastings.
The beauty of historical Sites - Learn Ninh Binh’s cultural heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)Bus: Giap Bat to Nam Dinh City (~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 central Nam Dinh sites 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).
Seize the vibrant spirit of Ninh Binh Travel (Source: Internet)Attractions:
Tran Temple/Phu Day: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/entry).
Vi Xuyen Park/Tran Quoc Tuan Monument: Free; donations ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD).
Thinh Long Beach: Free; rentals ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); meals ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).
Dining:
Phở bò: ~50,000–80,000 VND (~$2–$3.20 USD).
Bánh xíu páo: ~10,000–15,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.60 USD).
Kem xôi: ~15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1 USD).
Bánh gai/Siu Chau candy: ~15,000–100,000 VND (~$0.60–$4 USD).
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: ~950,000–4,700,000 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 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 Nam Dinh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for eco-transfers and savings.
The savory of local Cuisines - Photograph the savory allure of Ninh Binh’s cuisine (Source: Internet)Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456), especially for spring festivals (lunar January–March).
Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, comfortable shoes; pack rain gear (summer) or warm layers (winter).
Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day); confirm vendor prices to avoid overcharging.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables at festivals or markets; inform vendors of allergies; avoid rural roads at night.
Sustainability: Support local artisans and vendors; use reusable items; choose eco-tours to preserve Nam Dinh’s heritage.
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) for efficient itineraries.
Our sustainable tours highlight Nam Dinh’s best:
Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Tran Temple, Phu Day, Tran Quoc Tuan Monument. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.
Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Phở Cường, bánh xíu páo, kem xôi. Includes bike rentals and snacks.
Coastal Getaway Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Thinh Long Beach, seafood dining, Hai Hau markets. Includes transfers and meals.
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). 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, 90 km from Hanoi, enchants with its unique blend of historical landmarks, serene landscapes, and delectable cuisine, offering an authentic and restful experience, drawing thousands yearly. Explore sacred temples like Phu Day Temple (free entry), unwind by tranquil Van Long Wetland ($5–$7 boat tour, 125,000–175,000 VND), or savor local specialties such as bánh cuốn ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND) at Nam Dinh Market. Supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly boat tours and community-led preservation, Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Ninh Binh Travel experience, blending visits to Tam Coc, Trang An UNESCO site ($8 boat ride, 200,000 VND), and cultural sites like Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Nam Dinh’s historical and natural treasures? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and discover the Red River Delta’s timeless charm!
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.
Sources:
Nam Dinh Region Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, discoverninhbinh.com, tripadvisor.com
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