Nha Trang is full of amazing things to see, do and experience. With sunkissed beaches and islands, a buzzing entertainment scene combined with delicious food on every street corner, travelers are literally spoilt for choice. Here, we’ve chosen some of our favorites:
The Islands
Just off the coast of Nha Trang lies 19 islands and islets that are perfect for sightseeing. Jump aboard one of the many boat tours available and get out into the salty sea air to experience the magnificent coastline of Khanh Hoa Province. Hon Mun Island is a Marine Reserve and busy each day with divers exploring the beauty of life underwater. Diep Son Island further north contains beautiful wild beaches, and here, you can mingle with the island inhabitants and see how they go about heir daily life. Monkey Island is home to hundreds of island primates, and is popular with families. VinPearl Island has a beautful cable car ride over the water and boasts its own resort, water park, amusement park and golf course.
If you are seeking something a little grander and more elegant, hop aboard Emperor Cruises for an exclusive, all-inclusive cruise around Nha Trang Bay. Stopping at the fishing village and the private Bai Cau Beach, you will be treated to a day of luxury along with a sumptuous feast aboard the boat, and spend a day living in the footsteps of the old Emperor Bai Dai.
The Food
The culinary capital of Vietnam, Nha Trang is a mecca for the foodie tourist with a plethora of dining options available to suit all tastes and budgets. From the myriad street stalls serving up local delights such as seafood, Banh Xeo, Pho, Nem and Bun Ca to the vast collection of international restaurants, you will never go hungry in this city. Tran Phu is home to upscale dining in the many hotels and high-end eateries, while the main tourist area caters to lovers of Vietnamese, French, Indian, Italian, Eastern European and International cuisine. A visit here would not be complete without trying some delectable local seafood, and the array of choice is unrivaled in Vietnam.
Our picks:
Vietnamese – Lanterns Restaurant, Grill Garden BBQ Buffet, Yen’s Restaurant
French – Let Petit Bistro
Indian – Ganesh
Italian – Good Morning Vietnam and Da Fernando
Beach Dining – Sailing Club, Story Beach Restaurant
Rooftop – Lunar Rooftop Bar & Grill, Chef;s Club at Skylight
Buffet – Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa and Intercontinental Nha Trang
The Nightlife
If you want a local experience, drop into a street side beer bar known as Bia Hoi, and try the freshly brewed, unpasteurized local beer. For beachside entertainment, there are plenty along the main beach including the famous Sailing Club (an institution since 1994), Louisiane Brewhouse (with its own brewery on site), or Story Beach (with swimming pools and a nightclub close to the sands). The rooftop bar scene is constantly improving so if you fancy a party from on high, check out Skylight Nha Trang – a sprawling playground on the 43rd floor of Havana Best Western Hotel). Lunar Rooftop Bar and Grill is also on our list, serving up great food and cocktails with fantastic views of the bay. Altitude Bar at The Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa provides picture-perfect sunset cocktails overlooking the beach.
Within the tourist area, pay a visit to Rooftop Lounge at Havan Hotel for a great atmosphere with local expats, impressive decor and a great vibe, or the newly opened Makai Bar. For sports enthusiasts, Cheers Bar shows all the weekly live sporting events including soccer, UFC, Australian Rules and American Sports.
The Culture
A region steeped in history, you should take a day-tour to see the beautiful historical sites of the city including Po Nagar Cham Temple (built in the 16th century). This temple overlooks the bay at the mouth of the river and boats impressive architecture and a great insight into the culture of the Cham People. Also in the city-center is Long Son Pagoda which has a huge shimmering white Buddha Statue that watches over the city, and contains many Buddhist artifacts and buildings.
Accommodation
An ever increasing supply of places to stay means you will relax and sleep in comfort when here in Nha Trang. Spend a week in luxury at one of the many 5 star resorts including Mia Resort, Evason Diamon Bay Resort & Golf, Ana Mandara, Amiana or Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. Here, your every whim will be catered to and you can live in majestic luxury right by the sea. Many international hotel brands are located on the main promenade of Tran Phu Street, in close proximity to all the amenities of the city. For lower budgets, there is no shortage of 3-4 star hotels dotted all over the city.
So, we hope you enjoy your stay in our growing seaside city. Get out and explore, mingle and sample everything it has to offer. Have fun Discovering Nha Trang!
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