Nha Trang, up until a few years ago, would have been bypassed as another sleepy coastal town by all but local domestic tourists. However, much like the rest of Vietnam’s coast, times are changing, and Nha Trang is now one of the most sought-after tourism destinations in the entire country. Lapped by sparkling turquoise and surrounded by a constellation of romantic blue hills, Nha Trang city is surrounded by blissful nature, whilst the city itself is modern, clean, and with (at the moment at least) just the right concentration of tourism. Those with a penchant for history will also be sated -the city and surrounding region is home to gothic French churches, Buddhist temples, and even relics dating back to the ancient Champa empire.
By far the premier beach in Nha Trang, it may not be as secluded and romantic as some of the beaches surrounding the city, but Tran Phu Beach is truly the life and soul of the town. T stretches the entire length of the center of Nha Trang, and is bordered by a lively promenade, including seafood restaurants, bars, and plush resorts. Tran Phu has something for everyone; deck chairs and sun loungers both in and out of the shade for the reasonable price of 35,000 VND per day, beach toys such as an inflatable bouncy castle in the sea, and activities like windsurfing and speed boating are all available during summer months. There’s even spa treatments and yoga offered, but haggling is a must.
Or, for a touch of luxury, treat yourself with a sunset cocktails and dinner cruise. Admire Nha Trang’s white-sand beach and panoramic sunset with a cocktail in hand aboard a traditional junk. Slightly on the pricey side as far as Nha Trang activities go, this 90 USD package does feature a five-course dinner, live music, cocktails, and your choice of drinks.
Vinpearl Land is Vietnam’s answer to Florida’s Universal Studios. Boasting a huge selection of rides and attractions suitable for all ages, Nha Trang’s Vinpearl Land is also coincidentally home to the world’s longest oversea cable car at 3,320 meters. Tickets for the theme park go for 600,000 for adults, and cheaper tickets for children and families apply.
Getting to Nha Trang is easy, with Air Asia flights operating directly from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur Singapore and Moscow, to name a few.
For a more authentic experience, and to see some of the majestic Vietnamese countryside, train routes operate from both the north and south of the country, with both fast and overnight options.
Even if you’re only planning on staying in Nha Trang for a few days, downloading transport apps such as Uber, and the South East Asian equivalent; Grab, will save you more than a few bucks on getting around and are safe, plentiful, and sensationally easy to use.
Nha Trang has a very wide selection of hotel rooms, from basic dorms to luxury suites, and most are within a block or two of the beaches. Generally, you’ll find that the beach is lined with similar air-conditioned rooms for between 12 to 15 USD. However, during peak season (July and August), as well as during Lunar New Year, prices can soar and it can be tough to find a place to stay. The best advice here is to book ahead!
Being one of the most celebrated coastal cities in Vietnam, the cuisine of Nha Trang incorporates complicated cooking techniques, delicious tropical fruit such as pineapple and of course, seafood aplenty.
Famous local dishes include Nem Nuong Nha Trang; a fermented pork roll grilled on charcoal. Restaurants often serve this with fresh herbs, rice paper and other garnish so diners can serve themselves some fresh spring rolls and dip in the sweet and sour fish sauce.
Another recommendation is Bun Cha Ca – rice noodle with fish mattes and simmered in broth. The best place to try this would be at Nha Trang market.
For street food lovers, the Bánh xèo stand across the road from the Cham towers is worked by a feisty old lady knocking out excellent Bánh xèo (fried rice-flour pancakes filled with shrimp and bean sprouts) on a smoking griddle from morning until evening.
79 Dung Lin is a simple local restaurant famous for its awesome barbecued duck. Get half a duck with salad, dips and rice for around 100,000 VND (around 5 USD).
Nha Trang boasts myriad small independent shops and local supermarkets selling local produce, handicrafts, clothing, jewelry and everything in between. While goods here are sold at relatively low prices, you can still exercise your bargaining skills to get better deals. Generally, start haggling by quoting a price that is about 10-20% lower than what you think you should be paying, and, depending on your skill, you might end up with a price that is mutually agreeable.
Being one of Vietnam’s more popular coastal towns, seafood is everywhere and generally of outstanding quality. Dried squid or roasted sweetened fish are among the most popular things to bring home for local Vietnamese visiting Nha Trang on their vacation.
Nha Trang Market (also known as Dam Market) is by far the busiest shopping venue in the city. Stuffed with rows of vendors peddling handmade clothes, trinkets, and fresh produce, the three-story market is refreshingly organized and relatively un-intimidating. It’s also an early risers dream, opening at 4am daily.
For western brands and luxury items, Nha Trang Centre and Vincom Shopping Centre are two must-go destinations. There is a small number of fashion shops and cafes available at both venues as well.
It’s worth keeping in mind that Nha Trang’s beaches are spread out around the city, and some of the more tranquil and private ones can be a little drive away. Bai Dai beach (pronounced ‘bye yai’) is located 20 kilometers south of Nha Trang, removed from the city hustle, with a low octane, bohemian atmosphere.
ATM’s in the big cities take most international credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, however, there is often a transaction limit of between 2-5,000,000 VND (90-200USD).
Don’t expect smaller businesses to accept credit cards or online wallets. In Vietnam, cash is still definitely king, so it is advisable to always carry around a few million VND.
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