Nha Trang: A guide to exploring the coastal city and islands

From ancient Champa ruins to modern amusement parks, explore Nha Trang in its entirety with our detailed guide to getting around, eating out, and the best islands.

Nha Trang: More than just a beach city

Nha Trang is not only about long white sand beaches and clear blue water, but also a place where history, culture and vibrant entertainment activities intersect. This city offers visitors a variety of experiences, from admiring ancient Cham architecture, exploring the rich ocean world to relaxing moments at luxury resorts.

Nha Trang is famous for its blue beaches and beautiful natural scenery.

The ideal time to visit

Nha Trang's climate is relatively mild, allowing for year-round tourism . However, each season has its own unique characteristics.

• Dry season (January - August): This is the most ideal time with sunny, dry weather, suitable for sightseeing and beach activities. The period from April to August is the peak tourist season, so you should book services in advance for the best experience.
• Rainy season (September - December): These months can see rain, especially in October and November. Traveling during this season will be less crowded, however, you should monitor the weather forecast to plan accordingly.

Moving instructions

To Nha Trang

There are many ways to get to this coastal city, depending on your starting point and budget.

• Plane: The fastest and most convenient option. Flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City will land at Cam Ranh Airport, about 35 km from Nha Trang city center.
• Train: A great option for sightseeing along the way. Nha Trang Station is located right in the city center.
• Coach: Cost-effective means of transport, especially suitable for tourists departing from Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring provinces.

Buses are an economical means of transport to Nha Trang from neighboring cities.

Getting around the city

Nha Trang has a developed transportation system, making getting around easy.

• Motorbike rental: The most flexible and proactive way to explore the city's alleys. Rental prices range from 80,000 - 180,000 VND/day.
• Taxi and electric cars: Many taxi companies operate, including XANH SM Taxi, which uses electric cars. This is a convenient option for large groups or families.
• Bus: An economical means of transport with many routes passing through popular tourist spots.
• Canoes and boats: Necessary to travel to islands such as Hon Mun and Hon Tam.

Unmissable experiences

Nha Trang has many attractive destinations, from historical sites to pristine islands.

Cultural and architectural heritage

• Ponagar Tower: An ancient Cham architectural complex located on a hill on the banks of Cai River, is a cultural symbol of this land.
• Long Son Pagoda: Featured with a majestic statue of Buddha sitting on the top of the hill, offering a peaceful space and panoramic view of the city.
• Stone Church: A solid stone Gothic architectural work, a unique highlight in the heart of the coastal city.

Ponagar Tower is an ancient Cham architectural work that is still preserved almost intact.

Explore nature and the ocean

• Institute of Oceanography: Displays thousands of marine life specimens, including a giant whale skeleton nearly 26m long.
• Hon Chong - Hon Vo: A natural rock complex with unique shapes, an ideal place to admire the sea and city from afar.

Calling from the islands

• Hon Tre: Home to the Vinpearl Nha Trang resort and entertainment complex, including VinWonders park with many exciting games and special shows.
• Hon Mun: Famous for its diverse marine ecosystem, it is an ideal place for scuba diving to see coral.
• Hon Tam: Dreamy island with beautiful beaches and many water sports activities such as paragliding and jet skiing.
• Diep Son Island: Impresses with its unique sand road in the middle of the sea, connecting small islands, creating a magical scene.

Spectacular shows at VinWonders Nha Trang on Hon Tre Island.

Nha Trang culinary world

The trip would not be complete without trying the specialties of the coastal city.

• Seafood: Always fresh and diverse, prepared in many different ways at eateries from street stalls to luxury restaurants.
• Nem Nuong: A signature dish with fragrant nem nuong, served with rice paper, raw vegetables and special dipping sauce.
• Jellyfish noodle soup: This noodle dish has a refreshing taste of the ocean, with sweet fish broth and crunchy jellyfish pieces.
• Banh Can: Small cakes baked in a clay mold, served with scallion oil, eggs and fish sauce.

Grilled spring rolls are one of the specialties not to be missed when coming to Nha Trang.

Suggested 4 days 3 nights itinerary

To have a complete trip, you can refer to the following suggested itinerary:

• Day 1: Explore city destinations such as Ponagar Tower, Long Son Pagoda, Stone Church. Evening stroll around the night market.
• Day 2: Spend a full day having fun at VinWonders Nha Trang amusement park on Hon Tre island.
• Day 3: Join the island tour, snorkel to see coral at Hon Mun and relax at Hon Tam.
• Day 4: Visit the Institute of Oceanography, shop for specialties at Dam Market before going to the airport.

Notes for independent travel

• Documents and finances: Bring necessary identification (ID card/CCCD, driver's license) and prepare both cash and ATM card.
• Clothing: Prioritize loose-fitting clothing, swimwear, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and don't forget sunscreen.
• Booking services: During peak season, you should book flights, hotel rooms and tours early to ensure availability and good prices.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/nha-trang-cam-nang-kham-pha-thanh-pho-bien-va-cac-hon-dao-3310390.html