Things To Do
in Nam Định

Nam Định is a coastal city in northern Vietnam known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It features beautiful temples, historical sites, and vibrant local markets. The city is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, particularly silk weaving and embroidery.

Nam Định serves as a gateway to explore the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Red River Delta region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Phu Giay Pagoda, a sacred site that features stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Take some time to meditate and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the Nam Định Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and sample street food. Don't miss the chance to try 'Bánh Gối', a delicious local pastry.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in 'Nhút' (fermented bamboo shoots) and then take a stroll along the banks of the Red River to admire the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Tran Temple, dedicated to the Tran Dynasty, and learn about its historical significance. The temple's architecture and gardens are perfect for photography.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby coastal area of Hai Hau for some fresh seafood at local eateries. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or visiting the local fishing villages.

evening
:

Return to the city and experience the lively atmosphere at a local night market, where you can enjoy various street foods and shop for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$1.50
🍵Cup of Coffee$1.00
🥡Street Food Meal$2.00
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15.00
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Vietnamese speakers
  • Traffic congestion in the city center
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Giúp tôi với" - Help me
  • "Tôi không hiểu" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Nam Định

Visit one of these nice places.

Phu Giay Pagoda

An ancient pagoda surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing beautiful architecture and serene landscapes.

Tran Temple

A historical temple complex with intricate carvings and traditional architecture, ideal for cultural photography.

Hai Hau Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and fishing boats, offering stunning sunset views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nam Định

Nam Định's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty and rich cultural heritage.

Nam Định Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh Gối

A popular local pastry filled with pork, mushrooms, and glass noodles, wrapped in a crispy shell.

Must-Try!

Nhút

Fermented bamboo shoots served as a side dish, known for its crunchy texture and tangy taste.

Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm

Vermicelli noodles served with fried tofu and shrimp paste, a flavorful and aromatic dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nam Định Market

A bustling market where visitors can find local ingredients, fresh produce, and a variety of street food options.

Hai Hau Beach Street Food

A vibrant area featuring food stalls offering fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nam Định experiences a humid subtropical climate, with distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). The rainy season typically occurs from May to September, bringing occasional heavy downpours.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Religious Sites

Dress modestly and speak quietly when visiting temples and pagodas.

Greetings

A polite nod or a handshake is customary when greeting locals.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and use chopsticks properly when eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nam Định is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep valuables secure. Traffic can be chaotic, so be cautious when crossing streets.

Tipping in Nam Định

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants accept credit cards. ATMs are available in the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June to August)

Expect hot and humid weather; early mornings and late afternoons are best for exploring.

Autumn (September to November)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies provide excellent conditions for outdoor photography and cultural events.

Winter (December to February)

Cold and occasionally damp; prepare for chilly weather, especially in the evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Nam Định at Night

Nam Định's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but visitors can enjoy evening strolls along the river or visit local night markets. Some restaurants and cafes stay open late, providing a relaxed atmosphere for dining and socializing. A few bars offer live music, but the scene is not highly vibrant.

Hiking in Nam Định

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tam Dao National Park

Located about 2 hours from Nam Định, this park offers beautiful hiking trails with scenic views of the mountains and forests.

Cuc Phuong National Park

A bit further away, this park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, with several well-marked hiking routes.

Airports

How to reach Nam Định by plane.

Cat Bi International Airport

Located about 90 km from Nam Định, this airport serves domestic and some international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nam Định is quite walkable, particularly in the city center where many attractions are located close to each other. Sidewalks are available, although they may be occupied by vendors. Walking along the river provides a scenic and pleasant experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Vietnamese

The majority of the population is ethnic Vietnamese, known for their rich cultural traditions and customs.

Ethnic Minorities

There are also smaller communities of ethnic minorities, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Vietnam, with many local teams and a strong following among fans.

Martial Arts

Traditional Vietnamese martial arts are practiced widely, with many locals participating in training and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nam Định can be quite congested, especially during rush hours. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation, and crossing streets requires caution. Public transportation includes buses, but options may be limited compared to larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nam Định.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and it's advisable to request meals without meat or fish.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free dishes may be limited, rice-based meals are widely available and safe for those with gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nam Định include several hospitals and clinics, but they may not be as advanced as those in larger cities like Hanoi. It is advisable to have travel insurance and access to larger medical facilities if needed. Pharmacies are available for basic medical needs.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide