1. A glimpse of the Christmas atmosphere in Ha Nam

When mentioning Ha Nam (Ninh Binh province) during Christmas season, many people will immediately imagine brightly lit streets, grandly decorated shopping malls and churches, or eye-catching cafes that change their decor according to the season. Although not a major tourist city like Hanoi, Ha Nam still has its own charm during Christmas, thanks to an atmosphere that is both bustling and intimate, with cute, not overly ostentatious decorations.

The Christmas atmosphere in Ha Nam becomes sparkling and bustling all over the streets. (Source: Collected)

In recent years, young people have increasingly chosen Ha Nam as a place to check in for Christmas for many reasons. Firstly, it's because of its proximity to Hanoi, convenient travel, suitable for short day trips. Secondly, new locations are constantly appearing in the province such as urban areas, modern shopping malls, cafes with Korean-European concepts, offering countless novel backgrounds for photography. Finally, the indispensable "specialty" is traditionally decorated churches, imbued with a classic Christmas atmosphere – something many young people always want to experience at least once.

This very combination of modern and traditional has created a very unique Christmas season in Ha Nam: vibrant yet warm, novel yet familiar.

2. Best Christmas Photo Spots in Ha Nam

2.1. Vincom Plaza Phu Ly Shopping Mall

Located right on Bien Hoa street, Vincom Plaza Phu Ly is an indispensable spot on the year-end check-in list of young people. The shopping mall is open from morning till night, convenient for both families and couples to visit.

Vincom Plaza Phu Ly during Christmas is brilliant with lights and bustling with visitors. (Source: Collected)

Each Christmas season, the Vincom lobby area is decorated with a completely new concept: sometimes a giant Christmas tree covered in LED lights, sometimes a model of a Nordic village or a super chill snowy background. The spacious area, beautiful lighting, easy to pose in, and suitable for all ages makes this place always bustling with people taking photos. Whether you prefer a cute, luxurious, or simply want a warm family photo, Vincom is always a safe choice and the easiest to get beautiful pictures.

2.2. Dong Xa Catholic Village Church

Dong Xa Church is famous for its ancient architecture and its large Catholic community. Christmas here always has a very unique atmosphere: traditional, solemn, yet warm.

Dong Xa Church stands out with its solemn atmosphere and ancient architecture. (Source: Collected)

Each year, the church space is decorated with nativity scenes, lanterns, Christmas nativity models, and beautiful lighting systems. The classic background of stone walls combined with yellow lights creates a frame that is both nostalgic and artistic. If you like a truly Catholic Christmas concept, this is definitely a must-visit destination.

2.3. So Kien Basilica

Located in Chau Son ward, So Kien Basilica, also known as Ke So Church, is one of the four churches consecrated as Basilicas in Vietnam. The Basilica is built in Gothic architecture with timeless beauty.

So Kien Basilica attracts tourists with its majestic and ancient beauty. (Source: Compiled)

The church was built in Gothic architecture, accented with delicate lines. The highlight of the entire church is the arched doorway, pointed spires, and intricate patterns. The Basilica was built entirely of red brick. Previously, this was the most magnificent and splendid church in the entire Indochina region.

The facade of the church has a magnificent and imposing design. Two soaring bell towers were also built in Gothic architecture to create a harmonious whole. In the center is a cross, below it is a statue of the Virgin Mary over 140 years old.

2.4. Doi Tam Drum Square

Trong Doi Tam Square is always bustling with music and lights every Christmas evening. (Source: Collected)

Located at 88 Le Cong Thanh, Phu Ly ward, Trong Doi Tam Square becomes an attractive tourist destination during festivals. The spacious area of the square is very suitable for checking in during the Noel season with a large Christmas tree, lights along the paths, and vibrant miniatures.

2.5. River Silk City Urban Area

River Silk City is located in the southern part of Phu Ly ward, famous for its modern architecture and cool green space. Each festival season, the streets here are designed in European style with string lights, small Christmas tree models, and beautifully designed backgrounds.

River Silk City Urban Area is colorfully decorated every Christmas season in Ha Nam. (Source: Collected)

Thanks to its distinct European vibe, many young people choose River Silk City to take lookbooks, winter couple photos, or street fashion concepts. Afternoon and sunset are the best times because the light is soft, not harsh, and very photogenic.

2.6. Cafes decorated for Christmas

If you love gentle, cozy photo spots, then cafes are the "paradise" every Christmas season. In Phu Ly ward, there are many cafes that decorate early and have very tasteful decor:

2.6.1. Monolic Coffee & Eatery - Liem Chinh Urban Area, Phu Ly ward

Monolic Coffee & Eatery impresses with its youthful space and beautiful photo spots. (Source: Collected)

Monolic Coffee & Eatery stands out with its luxurious and sophisticated space. The design of the cafe is a perfect combination of modern European style and Asian touches, creating a space that is both elegant and cozy.

Drinks at Monolic Coffee & Eatery are meticulously cared for from flavor to presentation, with a diverse menu ranging from traditional coffees, espresso, latte to various teas and fresh, delicious smoothies. In addition, the cafe also serves light meals and cakes.

With its spacious open area and abundant natural light, Monolic Coffee & Eatery will surely bring you wonderful Christmas holiday experiences.

Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM

2.6.2. Icha Cafe Ha Nam - Phu Ly ward

Icha Cafe Ha Nam brings a modern space, suitable for year-end gatherings. (Source: Collected)

Icha Cafe Ha Nam is one of the favorite coffee shops thanks to its bright, clean space and many green plants. The shop is designed with many lovely check-in corners, very suitable for those who love photography and preserving memories. With gentle, sophisticated decorative details, combined with cool green plants, Icha Cafe brings a relaxing space close to nature.

Opening hours: 6 AM - 10 PM

2.6.3. King Coffee - 101 Ly Thuong Kiet, Phu Ly ward

King Coffee is a cozy stop for Christmas gatherings. (Source: Collected)

King Coffee in Phu Ly stands out with its elegant and luxurious space. The lovely wooden tables and chairs are arranged reasonably, creating many beautiful check-in corners, attracting many young people to take photos and save memories.

Opening hours: 8 AM - 10 PM

2.7. Muong Thanh Luxury Ha Nam Hotel

Muong Thanh Luxury Ha Nam Hotel stands out with its luxurious and modern space. (Source: Collected)

Muong Thanh Luxury located in Phu Ly ward is the largest hotel in the area. Every Christmas season, the hotel lobby is always spectacularly decorated with tall pine trees, reindeer models, gifts, and luxurious miniatures.

This is an ideal location for taking photos in a luxurious, high-class, and sophisticated European style. The dominant white-gold color scheme in the lobby area helps stunning outfits like red dresses, white lace dresses, or dark suits stand out exceptionally.

2.8. Phu Ly Cathedral

Phu Ly Cathedral located in Phu Ly ward always dons a sparkling beauty every Christmas season. The modern yet classic architecture makes the cathedral a perfect backdrop for Christmas photos.

Phu Ly Church attracts people with its ancient architecture and festive atmosphere. (Source: Collected)

The special feature of Phu Ly Church is the facade and main courtyard, which are elaborately decorated with a tall Christmas tree and colorful lights covering the area. Evening is the best time to visit; however, if you want more space for photos, you can visit in the early morning or late afternoon before 7 PM.

3. Tips for taking beautiful Christmas photos in Ha Nam

3.1. Outfits

Outfits play a crucial role in a Christmas photoshoot. Traditional colors like red, white, and green always stand out and complement the sparkling lights of the festive season. If you prefer a youthful style, try a 'Korean winter' outfit such as an oversized sweater, A-line skirt, wool coat, and scarf. For a vintage vibe, earthy tones like brown and beige, chunky knits, and low-heeled boots will make your photos warmer and more artistic.

3.2. Best Time to Shoot

The timing of your shoot also determines the quality of the photos. If you're shooting in brightly lit areas like churches or urban districts, nighttime is ideal for capturing the dazzling lights. Conversely, if you prefer a clear, gentle atmosphere, opt for daytime shoots at cafes, squares, or urban areas with elegant, bright, and spacious designs.

Christmas check-in in Ha Nam has many beautiful concepts and is suitable for all ages. (Source: Collected)

Christmas photo spots in Ha Nam will surely bring many interesting experiences. From ancient churches, dazzling shopping malls, to charming little cafes or urban areas with a strong European vibe, each place has its own beauty worth exploring and preserving. Hopefully, with the suggested top Christmas photo spots in Ha Nam above, you will have a truly sparkling, warm Christmas season and full of beautiful memories with your loved ones.