Quy Nhon Travel Guide

Discover Quy Nhon, Vietnam with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Quy Nhon is a gem of a destination located on the Central Coast of Vietnam. With its pristine beaches, historical sites, and natural attractions, Quy Nhon offers visitors a unique and memorable travel experience. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will be highlighting the best things to see and do in Quy Nhon, along with practical information on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

Introduction to Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is a coastal city that boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a rich history. It is said that the city was founded by the Cham people, who ruled the region for centuries before it was colonized by the Vietnamese. In the late 19th century, the French arrived and left their mark on the city with colonial architecture and cultural influences.

The city’s main economic activities are fishing, agriculture, and tourism. Quy Nhon’s coastline is studded with stunning beaches and islands, making it a paradise for beach-goers and water-sport enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Quy Nhon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Quy Nhon has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical buildings. Here are the top culturally important attractions to check out:

  • Cham Towers: located on the outskirts of the city, these towers were built in the 11th and 12th centuries, and are an excellent example of Cham architecture and art.
  • Quang Trung Museum: dedicated to the legendary Nguyen Hue, who led the Tay Son Rebellion against China in the 18th century.
  • Long Khanh Pagoda: a beautiful Buddhist pagoda built in the 18th century.
  • Turanor PlanetSolar: a solar-powered boat that is docked at the port and offers tours.

Natural Attractions of Quy Nhon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Quy Nhon’s natural attractions are diverse, ranging from scenic views to outdoor activities. Here are the top natural attractions to visit:

  • Ky Co Beach: a stunning white-sand beach located on a small island off the coast of Quy Nhon.
  • Ying and Yang Rocks: two rock formations located near Ky Co beach that are famous for their unique shapes and colors.
  • Eo Gio: a scenic cliffside road that offers breathtaking views of Quy Nhon’s coastline.
  • Cu Lao Xanh: a small island located near Quy Nhon, known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Xuan Dai Bay: a scenic 20-kilometer bike ride that offers stunning views of the sea.
  • Ghenh Rang: a historic site where you can go for a leisurely hike along the coast and explore the ruins of ancient structures.
  • Nhon Ly: a beautiful village located 20 kilometers from Quy Nhon, where you can bike through rice fields and visit local craft villages.

Best Things to Do in Quy Nhon: Activities and Tours

Quy Nhon offers a range of activities and tours that cater to everyone’s interests. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Scuba Diving: explore Quy Nhon’s colorful underwater world with a diving tour.
  • Surfing: catch some waves at Bai Xep, a beach popular among surfers.
  • Fishing Village Tour: learn about the local fishing industry and enjoy a seafood lunch.
  • Hot Springs: soak in a natural hot spring at Thap Cham Hot Springs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quy Nhon

For those planning a week-long trip to Quy Nhon, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Cham Towers and Quang Trung Museum. Day 2: Explore the beaches of Eo Gio and Ky Co. Day 3: Enjoy a relaxing day at Cu Lao Xanh Island. Day 4: Go on a biking tour to Ghenh Rang. Day 5: Take a fishing village tour and enjoy a seafood lunch. Day 6: Experience the local culture by visiting craft villages in Nhon Ly. Day 7: Soak in the Thap Cham Hot Springs and relax.

Food and Drink Scene of Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon’s food scene offers a variety of dishes that are made from fresh seafood and local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Banh Xeo: a crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and onions.
  • Bun Ca Quy Nhon: a noodle soup made with fish and served with fresh herbs and vegetables.
  • Goi Ca Mai: a salad made with fresh mackerel, onions, peanuts, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Ca Phe Sua: Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk.
  • Nom Bo Kho: a refreshing salad made with shredded green papaya, beef jerky, herbs, and peanuts.

Where to Stay in Quy Nhon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quy Nhon offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Avani Quy Nhon Resort & Spa: a luxury beachside resort with stunning sea views.
  • Blue Whale Resort: a budget-friendly hotel located close to the city center.
  • Nguyen Van Cu Guesthouse: a comfortable guesthouse in a quiet neighborhood.

What to Buy in Quy Nhon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Quy Nhon has a range of unique souvenirs and local products that are worth bringing home. Here are some suggestions:

  • Nhon Hoi Rattan and Bamboo products: intricately woven baskets, bags, and utensils made from Nhon Hoi Bamboo.
  • Sea salt: Quy Nhon is famous for its high-quality sea salt, which makes for a unique culinary souvenir.
  • Keo Quan Gifts: a local shop that sells handmade souvenirs made from seashells and recycled materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its festivals, art, and music. The city celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Hung Kings Temple festival. Traditional music and dance are also an important part of Quy Nhon’s cultural fabric.

Best Time to Visit Quy Nhon

The best time to visit Quy Nhon is from February to August when the weather is warm and dry. The monsoon season starts in September and lasts until January, which can make travel difficult and activities impossible to do.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quy Nhon

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local seafood dishes and coffee.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Leave litter on the beaches or in other public places.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.
  • Be too bold or pushy with locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is a relatively safe destination for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take common-sense precautions such as not walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical services for tourists. It is also recommended to drink only bottled water and avoid street food, which may cause stomach problems.

Getting to Quy Nhon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon airport is the closest airport to the city, which is served by daily flights from major cities in Vietnam.

Bus Stations Near Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon has several bus stations that serve routes to nearby cities such as Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are available for hire in the city, making it easy to get around.

How to Get Around in Quy Nhon

Quy Nhon is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking or biking distance. Taxis and motorbikes are also available for hire at affordable rates.

Where to Go Next from Quy Nhon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Quy Nhon is located in a region of Vietnam that offers a range of exciting destinations and excursions. Here are some popular ones to consider:

  • Hoi An: one of Vietnam’s most beautiful historic cities, located 300 kilometers north of Quy Nhon.
  • Phu Yen: a scenic coastal province located 60 kilometers south of Quy Nhon, known for its beautiful landscapes and pristine beaches.
  • Da Nang: a modern city located 440 kilometers north of Quy Nhon, known for its spectacular bridges and bustling nightlife.

Conclusion

Quy Nhon offers a unique and memorable travel experience with its blend of natural attractions, historical sites, and cultural heritage. With this comprehensive tour guide, you now have all the information you need to plan your next adventure to Quy Nhon, Vietnam!

Hindu icons Shiva and makara dragon found at Champa sites outside Quy Nhơn. The sculptures, carved in the 11th to 13th centuries, are held in the Musée Guimet, Paris, France. Hindu icons Shiva and makara dragon found at Champa sites outside Quy Nhơn. The sculptures, carved in the 11th to 13th centuries, are held in the Musée Guimet, Paris, France. Nguyễn Huệ, local boy made good Nguyễn Huệ, local boy made good American soldiers searching for Viet Cong in a home in the Quy Nhơn countryside, 1966. The American soldiers searching for Viet Cong in a home in the Quy Nhơn countryside, 1966. The "pacification" operations led to over 130,000 locals fleeing for shelter in refugee camps. Korean soldiers teach taekwondo to locals outside Quy Nhơn. 1965. Korean soldiers teach taekwondo to locals outside Quy Nhơn. 1965. Korean troops show Bình Định villagers a chart—labelled in Korean—of Viet Cong booby traps. 1968. Korean troops show Bình Định villagers a chart—labelled in Korean—of Viet Cong booby traps. 1968. US and South Vietnamese soldiers taking a coconut break while searching the Bình Định countryside for Viet Cong. June, 1967. US and South Vietnamese soldiers taking a coconut break while searching the Bình Định countryside for Viet Cong. June, 1967. US medic vaccinates locals in village 10 km (6 mi) west of Phù Cát Air Base. January, 1970. US medic vaccinates locals in village 10 km (6 mi) west of Phù Cát Air Base. January, 1970. Phù Cát airport Phù Cát airport Diêu Trì train station Diêu Trì train station Quy Nhơn cyclo driver and passenger Quy Nhơn cyclo driver and passenger Quy Nhơn beach promenade Quy Nhơn beach promenade Sand, sand, sand Sand, sand, sand Tháp Đôi Cham Towers Tháp Đôi Cham Towers Chùa Minh Tịnh Chùa Minh Tịnh Chùa Phổ Minh on the riverbank in the north of the city Chùa Phổ Minh on the riverbank in the north of the city Tượng Phật đôi, the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam, towers over the coast on the Phương Mai Peninsula. Tượng Phật đôi, the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam, towers over the coast on the Phương Mai Peninsula. Siesta time Siesta time Breakfast on the street Breakfast on the street ''Bánh bèo chén'' ''Bánh bèo chén'' Small clams boiled in lemongrass broth (''con nghêu hấp'') served on the grass across from the beach Small clams boiled in lemongrass broth (''con nghêu hấp'') served on the grass across from the beach Your dinner is being prepared. Your dinner is being prepared. Roving ''bánh xèo'' vendor cooking on hot coals on the street Roving ''bánh xèo'' vendor cooking on hot coals on the street