Nestled in the enchanting north of Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a picturesque city with many facets. Its breathtaking natural landscapes are imposing, with towering limestone cliffs marking its borders and the majestic Non Nuoc mountain rising to the north, with a peaceful pagoda at its base.

But Ninh Binh is not limited to its architectural and natural heritage. At the heart of its expanding urban fabric, elegant shopping centers stand as modern contrasts, adding a touch of sophistication to this harmonious landscape. The bustling streets of the city invite exploration, offering a kaleidoscope of local products in lively markets.

Your shopping adventure in Ninh Binh will leave you with lasting memories and a deep attachment to this unique city, bringing a bit of its charm back in your luggage.

Entertainment and shopping in Ninh Binh

Where to shop in Ninh Binh? Tam Coc and Trang An are options ideal

Discover the splendid beauty of Ninh Binh, where Tam Coc and Trang An enchant with their breathtaking landscapes. Take the opportunity to discover local crafts by purchasing elaborately made tablecloths and cushion covers that add an authentic touch to your experience.

Local Market in Tam Coc and Trang An

In the charming town of Ninh Binh, local markets offer a unique and authentic shopping experience. Besides traditional markets like Tam Coc, Ninh Binh also hosts lively flea markets, including the famous Cho Rong market, also known as the Dragon Market.
These markets offer a wide range of products, including authentic Ninh Binh clothing and accessories. Counterfeits are rare in local markets, ensuring the authenticity of your purchases.
For food lovers, the markets are filled with food stalls offering tasty and affordable local dishes. Every bite of these culinary specialties will transport you to a world of flavors.
Additionally, the markets feature bouquets of flowers with intricate designs, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

Shopping malls in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is also home to numerous modern shopping malls that cater to all your needs. Renowned stores like Big C, Tam Hang Plaza, Da Nam Cao Cap Shopping Center, and Dong Thanh Plaza offer a wide range of products similar to those you would find in your own city, creating a familiar atmosphere that will remind you of sweet memories from home. These shopping malls will enhance your private travel experience in Vietnam and offer you unforgettable moments.

Ideas for specialties to bring back from Ninh Binh

The mouthwatering dishes that captivate tourists in Ninh Binh include:
  • Burned rice (Cơm cháy): A crispy and tasty treat
  • Kim Son sticky rice wine (rượu nếp Kim Sơn): A renowned local beverage
  • Vietnamese fermented pork from Yen Mac (Nem chua Yên Mạc): A tangy and refreshing delicacy
  • Ninh Binh Goat Meat: A savory and meaty snack
  • Salted shrimp Gia Vien – (Shrimp paste): An umami condiment that enhances the flavor
And many other specialties that will delight the taste buds of visitors to this ancient capital, such as: Dong Giao pineapple, Hang Long sweet potatoes, and Nauclea orientalis (quả gáo, a local fruit of Ninh Binh).
Shopping in Ninh Binh - Buy burned rice

Craft Villages in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is always known for its captivating sites, from the picturesque landscapes of Tam Coc - Bich Dong to the remnants of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Ninh Binh is also renowned for its craft villages, cradles of traditional craftsmanship.

Van Lam Lace Embroidery Village

The Van Lam lace embroidery village, nestled in the Ninh Hai commune in Hoa Lu district of Ninh Binh province, has a fascinating history. According to legend, in 1258, King Tran Thai Tong, having abdicated in favor of his son, retired to the mountainous region of Vu Lam. There, he established a military camp to lead the resistance against the Mongol invasion. The wife of Master Tran Thu Do (teacher of the king), who came here to teach the people of Van Lam village the craft of embroidery.

Van Lam embroidery, one of the best souvenirs to buy in Ninh Binh

This craft has been passed down from generation to generation, becoming a deeply rooted tradition. Today, even young children master this delicate technique. With fine and colorful threads, the residents of Van Lam create unique masterpieces. Embroidered landscape paintings, ornate cushion covers, elegant curtains, and refined tablecloths come to life under their skillful fingers. These exquisite souvenirs tell the story of Van Lam and are precious witnesses to the Vietnamese craft tradition.

Where to go shopping in Ninh Binh? Come to Van Lam Lace Embroidery Village

Ninh Van Stone Carving Village

Nestled in the commune of Ninh Van, the craft village of stone carving is a centuries-old heritage. Despite the ups and downs of time, Ninh Van people still preserve the traditional crafts of their ancestors, demonstrating outstanding talent.
In the past, stone craftsmanship focused on utilitarian objects such as flower pots, mortars, animal sculptures, and house plinths. Stone artworks are reserved for sacred and cultural places such as mosques, temples and pagodas. Local artisans were then called upon to create these masterpieces.
Ninh Van Stone Carving Village
The stone carving of Ninh Van village has developed, allowing local artisans to create works of art on the spot, regardless of their size. They have also extended their reach nationally, showcasing their sculptures during guided tours in Ninh Binh.
Visitors can admire masterpieces such as religious statues, monuments, artistic sculptures, decorative reservoirs, stone vases and representations of the four sacred animals of Vietnam (Dragon – Unicorn – Tortoise – Phoenix) and pillars.
With access to local materials, know-how and long-standing traditions, Ninh Van artisans meet all customers' needs.

Kim Son sedge weaving village

In the Kim Son district, at the heart of Ninh Binh province, lies an artisanal village renowned for its ancestral expertise in weaving sedge mats. The abundance of alluvial soils in the region makes Kim Son a natural cradle for sedge, an essential raw material for this craft. This generous source has nourished a centuries-old tradition within the village.
Initially, sedge mats were the only product of the village. Known for their durability and beauty, they are crafted by artisans who meticulously dye the sedge to prevent fading and weave them with dexterity and precision. Intricate decorative patterns demonstrate the talent of the craftsman.
Kim Son Sedge Weaving Village
Today, sedge weaving products in Kim Son are much more diverse. In addition to traditional mats, artisans now produce rugs, baskets, trays, boxes, plates, cups, hats, and handbags, all finely crafted. These durable, environmentally friendly products have received the love of foreign consumers, bringing Kim Son village to the international level. Kim Son's creations also make valuable souvenirs for those who visit Ninh Binh. They bear witness to Vietnam's rich artisanal heritage and make meaningful gifts for family and friends.

What souvenirs from Ninh Binh can be brought on the plane?

When the vacation ends, a touch of nostalgia may set in. However, an essential ritual awaits you at the end of your vacation to prolong good memories: buying souvenir. Look for little treasures for yourself or your loved ones, evocative items that will instantly bring you back to the atmosphere of your trip. Below are items that are prohibited from being brought into the cabin, according to airline regulations:
  • Liquid dairy products (milk, yogurt, fresh cheese, etc.)
  • Raw meats (butchery, game, fish, etc.)
  • Products made from uncooked meat (pâté, sausages, terrines, etc.)
  • Alcohol
  • Soups and broths
  • Spreadable pastes, jams, butter
  • Sharp or pointed objects (knives, scissors, screwdrivers, etc.)
  • Skateboards
  • Flowers and plants
  • Natural materials (sand, gravel, seashells)
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
After your excursion to Ninh Binh, prioritize buying embroidery and weaving items to bring in your carry-on luggage. For other Ninh Binh souvenirs, we recommend checking them in your checked baggage.

Conclusion on leisure and shopping in Ninh Binh

During your stay in Vietnam, even on luxury tours, explore the affordable shopping opportunities in Ninh Binh for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you are on a honeymoon, family trip, or simply traveling as a couple, offer your partner authentic and economical gifts that will testify to your stay in Vietnam.

Reviews from Customers

Please take a look at the following reviews from our customers!

Quick Tour Inquiry

Security question: 1 + 4 =