All Things You Need To Know Before traveling to Nha Trang

Nha Trang is not only celebrated for stunning beaches but also it has distinctive cuisine, which offers a delightful taste of the sea. Among the must-try dishes are:

Bánh Căn (Mini Pancakes)

These delightful little pancakes are made from rice flour and cooked in small, round pans over a coal fire, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Typically, they’re filled with shrimp or squid and then topped with a quail egg. Served hot with a side of fresh herbs and a tangy fish sauce, Bánh Căn is both crispy and tender, making it an irresistible snack or light meal.

Bún Chả Cá (Fish Cake Noodle Soup)

This iconic dish consists of fish cakes made from pounded fish, often mackerel, which is known for its firm texture and sweet flavor. The fish cakes are cooked in a light and flavorful broth with tomatoes and green onions, served over rice vermicelli noodles. Garnished with plentiful herbs like mint and cilantro, this dish is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any time of the day.

Nem Nướng Nha Trang (Grilled Pork Sausages)

Nem nướng offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The pork is seasoned with garlic, pepper, and sometimes a hint of sugar, giving it a savory taste with a slightly sweet undertone. Once grilled, the pork is often served with a sticky rice paper, which diners use to wrap the pork along with slices of raw garlic, green banana, and star fruit, dipped into a thick and spicy peanut sauce.

Bánh Xèo Mực (Squid Pancakes)

Another variant in the local pancake lineup, Bánh Xèo Mực features a crispy crepe filled with succulent pieces of squid. The pancakes are seasoned with turmeric, giving them a bright yellow color and a subtle earthy taste, and are usually stuffed with bean sprouts and green onions as well. Eaten hot directly from the skillet, these pancakes are folded over and cut into pieces, served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili.

Lẩu Bò (Beef Hotpot)

For those cooler evenings or when you just want something a bit more substantial, Lẩu Bò is a popular choice. This hotpot features a rich and aromatic broth, simmered with lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon. Thin slices of beef are cooked in this broth at the table, accompanied by a variety of vegetables like cabbage, mushrooms, and tomatoes, along with noodles. It’s a communal dish, perfect for sharing with friends or family.

These dishes not only offer a taste of Nha Trang’s culinary richness but also reflect the local culture and love for seafood.

IV. Airport and Train Station

1. Cam Ranh International Airport

• Code: (IATA: CXR, ICAO: VVCR)
• Website: https://www.camranh.aero/
• Address: Nguyen Tat Thanh, Cam Nghia, Cam Ranh, Khanh Hoa
• Phone: 0258 3989 956
• Hub for: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airlines

Nha Trang is accessible both by air and rail, catering to a variety of travelers. For those looking to fly, Cam Ranh International Airport (IATA code: CXR) serves as the gateway to Nha Trang. The airport is located at Nguyen Tat Thanh Blvd., Cam Ranh, approximately 35 kilometers south of Nha Trang city center. It handles numerous flights from major cities across Vietnam and some international destinations.

When arriving at Cam Ranh International Airport, you can choose from various transportation options such as taxis, buses, and car rentals to reach Nha Trang city. The travel time from the airport to the city center typically takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

2. Nha Trang Railway Station

• Address: 17 Thai Nguyen, Phuoc Tan, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa
• Phone: (0258) 382 0666
• Ticket Hours: 7:30 AM – 19:30 PM

For those preferring to travel by train, Nha Trang Railway Station (station code: NTN) offers a scenic route along the Vietnamese coast. The station is situated at 17 Thai Nguyen Street, Phuoc Tan, Nha Trang. It is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible from various parts of Nha Trang. The railway station is part of the main North-South Railway line, providing service to and from several large cities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Train travel offers a unique chance to view the beautiful landscapes of Vietnam at a more relaxed pace. Trains to Nha Trang are equipped with various facilities to enhance passenger comfort, ranging from soft seats to sleeper cabins. Ticket prices vary depending on the type of service and seat class chosen.

There are currently 10 train services each day from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City:

V. Nha Trang City Tour Itinerary

8:00 AM: Start at Po Nagar Cham Towers

• Address: 2 Tháng 4 Street, near the Xom Bong Bridge
• Ticket Price: 22,000 VND

9:30 AM: Visit Nha Trang Cathedral

• Address: Nguyen Trai Street, Phuoc Tan, Nha Trang
• Ticket Price: Free

Nha Trang Cathedral, officially known as Christ the King Cathedral, stands as a majestic example of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Built in the early 20th century during French rule, the cathedral features stained glass windows and a tall, imposing bell tower with a clock, which can be seen from many parts of the city.

The interior of the church is equally impressive with high vaulted ceilings and tranquil prayer areas. Visitors are welcome to attend a Mass or simply explore the serene environment of the cathedral. The site is especially popular among locals and tourists alike during major Christian holidays,

11:00 AM: Long Son Pagoda

• Address: Thai Nguyen Street, Phuong Son, Nha Trang
• Ticket Price: Free (donations accepted)

Long Son Pagoda is a Buddhist temple in Nha Trang known for its large white Buddha statue that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The temple was originally built in the late 19th century but has been rebuilt several times due to damage from storms and fires.

The current structure features a traditional Vietnamese architectural style with ornate and colorful dragon motifs. You must climb a flight of 152 stone steps to reach the giant Buddha, which symbolizes the resilience and peace of the Buddhist faith.

12:30 PM: Lunch at a local seafood restaurant

• Address: Recommended restaurant near Tran Phu Street
• Price Range: 100,000 – 200,000 VND per person

Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Nha Trang’s renowned seafood restaurants along Tran Phu Street, where you can taste some of the freshest seafood caught from the nearby waters.

2:00 PM: Nha Trang Beach

• Address: Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang
• Ticket Price: Free (charges for beach chairs/umbrellas)

Nha Trang Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Vietnam, known for its long stretch of beautiful white sand and clear blue waters. The beach is a hub of activity, where locals and tourists alike gather to sunbathe, swim, and participate in various water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Along the beachfront, there are numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink while watching the stunning sunset.

4:00 PM: Visit to Dam Market

• Address: Van Thanh, Nha Trang
• Ticket Price: Free

Dam Market is the largest and most popular market in Nha Trang, offering a vibrant and colorful shopping experience. This bustling marketplace is the commercial center of the city, where locals come to buy everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and souvenirs. You can explore the various stalls selling local handicrafts, traditional Vietnamese garments, and unique jewelry.

6:00 PM: Sunset Boat Trip around Nha Trang Bay

• Starting Point: Nha Trang Port
• Ticket Price: Approximately 300,000 VND per person

End your tour with a peaceful sunset boat trip around Nha Trang Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. As you sail around the bay, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coastline and the cityscape as the sun sets over the horizon. We have a private tour to do this, you can see more here: Nha Trang Tour + Cruise Tour by Sunset.

In addition, many tours also include a boat trip to nearby islands such as Hon Mun and Hon Tam that you can refer to our Nha Trang Four Islands Tour Full Day, where snorkeling and water sports are popular. These tours are typically full-day and can be booked through local travel agents or hotels.

Below are some tours we recommend to you:

• Nha Trang Binh Ba island Tour
• Nha Trang Cai River Boat Tour 1 Day
• Nha Trang SNORKELING + Fishing Tour 1 Day

VI. Islands at Nha Trang

1. Hon Mun Island

Hon Mun Island is renowned for its stunning underwater scenery, making it a premier destination for snorkeling and scuba diving in Vietnam. The waters around Hon Mun are protected as part of a marine park, preserving its rich biodiversity which includes colorful coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish.

This ecological conservation effort ensures that the natural beauty of the sea remains intact and vibrant. You can rent snorkeling or diving gear from numerous operators on the island. The clear waters and abundant marine life provide an ideal underwater experience, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

2. Hon Tam Island

Hon Tam Island is well-developed and offers a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities. The island features luxurious resorts, a sandy beach, and lush green landscapes. It’s a popular spot for tourists looking to relax and enjoy high-end comforts.

In addition to sunbathing and swimming, Hon Tam provides a range of water sports activities such as jet skiing and kayaking. The island also has a spa and golf course, catering to those who seek a rejuvenating retreat or leisure activities in a picturesque setting.

3. Hon Tre Island

Home to the famous Vinpearl Land Resort and Amusement Park, Hon Tre Island is the largest island in Nha Trang Bay and offers entertainment for the whole family. The resort includes a water park, an aquarium, a golf course, and luxurious beachfront accommodations.

Accessible by a scenic cable car ride—the longest over-sea cable car in the world – Hon Tre offers stunning aerial views of Nha Trang Bay. The amusement park features thrilling rides and attractions, making it a perfect day out for families and adventure seekers.

4. Hon Mieu Island

Hon Mieu Island is known for the Tri Nguyen Aquarium, a fascinating attraction built to resemble a giant pirate ship. The aquarium houses a variety of sea creatures, offering You a glimpse into the underwater world of the region.

Besides the aquarium, Hon Mieu is a traditional fishing village where you can observe daily life and the traditional methods of fishing and boat making. The island provides an authentic experience of the local culture and is an excellent spot for those interested in the maritime heritage of Vietnam.

5. Hon Lao Island

Commonly referred to as Monkey Island, Hon Lao is a unique and lively destination. The island is populated by a large number of monkeys, which are friendly and used to human interaction. You can feed and take photos with the monkeys, making it a fun and interactive experience.

The island also offers beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails. Entertainment shows featuring trained monkeys and other performances are regularly held, adding to the charm and appeal of Hon Lao for visitors of all ages.

Each of these islands near Nha Trang offers distinctive attractions, catering to different interests, whether it’s adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration.

VII. Getting around in Nha Trang

Transportation in Nha Trang is quite varied, catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are the main modes of transport you can use to explore the city and its surroundings:

Bus

Nha Trang offers a public bus service with several routes covering most tourist attractions and districts within the city. It is an affordable way to get around, with tickets costing very little, making it ideal for budget travelers.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Nha Trang and offer a convenient way to travel. They are metered, ensuring fair pricing. For those unfamiliar with the area, taxis provide a hassle-free method to move from one place to another.

Private Car in Nha Trang

For a more comfortable and flexible option, hiring a Nha Trang private car with a driver can be a great choice. This is particularly advantageous for families or groups wanting to explore at their own pace or for visiting attractions that are further away.

Motorbike Rental

Renting a motorbike is a popular option for those who are adventurous. It gives you the freedom to explore the city’s outskirts and the rural areas at your own convenience. However, it’s important to be experienced in handling a motorbike and to understand local traffic rules.

Bicycle Rental

For those who prefer a slower pace, renting a bicycle is a wonderful way to see Nha Trang. It’s environmentally friendly and provides a more intimate experience of the city. Many hotels and rental shops offer bicycles at a daily rate.

Each transportation option offers its own set of advantages, depending on your travel needs and preferences.

VIII. Conclusion

Nha Trang is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes and rich historical sites to delicious cuisine and exciting nightlife. Whether you’re here for relaxation at the beach, cultural exploration at ancient sites, or adventurous water sports, Nha Trang caters to all kinds of visitors.

Remember to plan your visit according to the season to enjoy the best weather for your activities. Lastly, don’t forget to try the local dishes and interact with the friendly locals to enrich your travel experience in this beautiful Vietnamese city.

Exploring Nha Trang can be a memorable adventure, ensuring visitors leave with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for this unique coastal city.