Quy Nhon, a hidden gem on Vietnam’s central coast, is steadily asserting its position on the Vietnamese tourism map. Unlike the bustling and vibrant Nha Trang or Da Nang, Quy Nhon captivates visitors with its pristine, simple beauty, featuring crystal-clear beaches, expansive sand dunes, and distinctive cuisine. Are you ready for an exciting and memorable self-guided tour of Quy Nhon? Let’s explore all the experiences, itineraries, and tips to fully enjoy this beautiful coastal city!
1. About Quy Nhon – A Newly Emerging Attractive Destination
Quy Nhon is a coastal city in Binh Dinh province, located between Quang Ngai and Phu Yen, and bordering Gia Lai to the west. It boasts a coastline stretching over 40km with diverse terrain ranging from mountains and plains to islands, creating a stunning natural landscape. Moreover, Quy Nhon carries a long-standing historical and cultural imprint, evident in ancient Cham Pa relics and unique traditional festivals.
1.1. Historical Formation
Quy Nhon’s history dates back to ancient times, belonging to the Dang Trong region of Thuan Quang. By the 19th century, the influence of Western industrialization transformed Quy Nhon’s appearance. In 1898, King Thanh Thai issued a decree establishing Quy Nhon town, turning it into a bustling commercial center with international trade. Through various stages of development, Quy Nhon today is a dynamic coastal city, attracting tourists with its natural beauty and historical cultural values.
Bai Xep beach in Quy Nhon, a coastal city with a long history
Traveling to Quy Nhon, you will immerse yourself in the space of the sea and mountains and explore unique historical sites.
1.2. Ideal Time to Visit Quy Nhon
Quy Nhon has two distinct seasons: the dry season (March – September) and the rainy season (October – February of the following year). The average temperature is around 24.5 degrees Celsius, with predominantly sunny weather. The best time to visit Quy Nhon is during the summer, from May to July. At this time, the weather is sunny and beautiful, with little rain and calm seas, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the islands. However, you should avoid traveling during the typhoon season (September – November) to prevent disruptions to your trip.
2. Guide to Getting to Quy Nhon
To reach the beautiful coastal city of Quy Nhon, you can choose one of the following means of transport:
2.1. Airplane
This is the fastest and most convenient means of transportation. Phu Cat Airport is about 30km from the center of Quy Nhon, with many flights from Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Ho Chi Minh City. Airfares vary depending on the booking time and airline. To save costs, you should look for cheap tickets about 1-2 months in advance.
2.2. Coach/Sleeper Bus/Limousine
This is a popular and cost-effective means of transport. There are many high-quality sleeper bus and limousine companies operating routes from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Quy Nhon. Ticket prices range from 250,000 – 500,000 VND depending on the bus company and type of vehicle. Travel time is approximately 10-15 hours.
Experiencing Quy Nhon on your own: you can choose a sleeper bus for your trip.
2.3. Motorbike
If you are an explorer and want to experience beautiful coastal roads, a motorbike is an exciting option. However, the distance from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Quy Nhon is quite long, and you need to prepare carefully in terms of health and protective gear.
2.4. Train
This is a suitable means of transport for those who want to experience slow travel and enjoy the scenery along the way. There are two train stations in Quy Nhon: Dieu Tri station (15km from the center) and Quy Nhon station. Train fares vary depending on the type of seat and distance.
Easily travel to Quy Nhon by train.
3. Getting Around Quy Nhon
Once you arrive in Quy Nhon, you can choose the following means of transport to get around the city:
3.1. Bus
This is a cheap public transport option, suitable for those who want to save costs. However, buses can be crowded and waiting times may be long.
Getting to Quy Nhon quickly by bus.
3.2. Taxi
Taxis are a convenient means of transport, suitable for large groups or families. However, taxi fares are quite high compared to other options.
Traveling in Quy Nhon by taxi.
3.3. Electric Car
Electric cars are a fun option for strolling around the city and exploring small streets.
Electric car in Quy Nhon
Traveling around Quy Nhon by electric car, you will have the opportunity to explore small streets and enjoy the fresh air of the coastal city.
3.4. Motorbike Rental
This is a popular choice for many tourists due to its flexibility and proactiveness. You can easily rent a motorbike at hotels, homestays, or rental shops for about 80,000 – 150,000 VND/day.
Traveling in Quy Nhon by motorbike.
3.5. Car Rental with Driver
This is a suitable option for families or groups of friends who want to travel comfortably and visit many different locations. The driver will take you to sightseeing spots according to your schedule and introduce you to local culture and history.
Car for rent with a driver
Traveling in Quy Nhon easily by car, you won’t have to worry about finding your way or driving.
4. Famous Tourist Attractions in Quy Nhon
Quy Nhon has countless attractive destinations, from pristine beaches to ancient historical sites. Here are some places you should not miss on your self-guided tour of Quy Nhon:
4.1. Quy Nhon Beach
Quy Nhon Beach stretches for about 5km, embracing the city center with fine golden sand and clear blue water. This is an ideal place for swimming, relaxing, and watching the sunrise or sunset.
4.2. Ghenh Rang Tien Sa
Ghenh Rang is a complex of rocky mountains running close to the sea, creating majestic and poetic scenery. Here, you can visit Bai Trung (Queen’s Beach), visit Han Mac Tu’s tomb, and explore Ghenh Rang Church.
Ghenh Rang scenic area in Quy Nhon
Taking photos with the beautiful scenery of Ghenh Rang, you will have unique and impressive pictures.
4.3. Eo Gio
Eo Gio is a bow-shaped sea strait, surrounded by towering rocky mountains. Standing at Eo Gio, you can gaze out at the vast ocean and admire the waves crashing against the rocky shore.
4.4. Ky Co
Ky Co is a small, pristine beach with fine white sand and turquoise water. Here, you can swim, snorkel, and participate in water sports activities.
Ky Co and Eo Gio tour experience in Quy Nhon
Travel experience in Quy Nhon, you should not miss the attractive Ky Co – Eo Gio tour.
4.5. Cu Lao Xanh (Green Island)
Cu Lao Xanh is a small island, about 20km from Quy Nhon. It is famous for its pristine beaches, colorful coral reefs, and the peaceful life of the fishing villagers.
4.6. Twin Towers (Thap Doi)
Twin Towers is an ancient Cham Pa architectural complex, located right in the heart of Quy Nhon city. The Twin Towers have unique architecture, showing the intersection between Cham Pa and Vietnamese culture.
Twin Towers, a famous tourist spot in Quy Nhon
Twin Towers – a famous attraction no less than the Ky Co – Eo Gio tour.
4.7. Other Beaches
In addition, Quy Nhon has many other beautiful beaches such as Bai Xep, Bai Dai, Bai Bang, Bai Rang, Bai Quy Hoa… Each beach has its own beauty, meeting the needs of all visitors.
5. Exciting Experiences When Traveling to Quy Nhon
5.1. Snorkeling
Coming to Quy Nhon without snorkeling is a big omission. Hon Kho and Ky Co are two ideal locations for you to explore the colorful underwater world.
Snorkeling and watching marine life in Quy Nhon.
5.2. Explore Seagate Park Tourist Area
Seagate Park is a large ecological park, located right at the beginning of Thi Nai Bridge. Here, you can participate in recreational activities such as artificial rock climbing, archery, kayaking…
Seagate Park tourist area in Quy Nhon
Having fun at Seagate Park tourist area, you will have memorable experiences with family and friends.
5.3. Watching Sunrise or Sunset by the Coast
Choose a beachfront coffee shop and watch the sunrise or sunset. You will surely feel relaxed and more in love with life.
Watching a poetic sunrise by the beach.
6. Accommodation in Quy Nhon
Quy Nhon has many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly homestays. You should book your room in advance to ensure you have a satisfactory place to stay, especially during peak tourist season.
7. Quy Nhon Cuisine: A Paradise for Food Lovers
Quy Nhon cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood and distinctive Central Vietnamese specialties. Here are some dishes you should not miss:
7.1. Banh Xeo Tom Nhay (Sizzling Shrimp Crepes)
Banh xeo tom nhay is a specialty of Quy Nhon, with filling only including fresh shrimp and bean sprouts. The crepe is served with fresh vegetables and dipping fish sauce.
Banh xeo tom nhay, a specialty dish in Quy Nhon
Banh xeo tom nhay – an attractive specialty when traveling to Quy Nhon.
7.2. Bun Cha Ca (Fish Cake Noodle Soup)
Bun cha ca Quy Nhon is famous for its fresh fish cakes and sweet broth.
If you take a Quy Nhon tour, don’t forget to enjoy the famous bun cha ca.
7.3. Jellyfish Dishes
Jellyfish is a specialty of Quy Nhon, processed into many attractive dishes such as jellyfish salad, jellyfish noodles, jellyfish hot pot…
Various dishes made from jellyfish in Quy Nhon
Jellyfish dishes have long been a specialty of self-guided tourism in Quy Nhon.
7.4. Banh Hoi Long Heo (Vermicelli with Pork Offal)
Banh hoi long heo is a specialty of Binh Dinh, with soft vermicelli, delicious chewy pork offal, and flavorful dipping fish sauce.
Travel experience in Quy Nhon, when taking the Ky Co – Eo Gio tour, don’t forget to enjoy banh hoi long heo.
7.5. Bun Tom Chau Truc (Chau Truc Shrimp Noodle Soup)
Bun tom Chau Truc is a special dish of Quy Nhon, with fresh shrimp prepared according to a unique recipe.
Bun tom Chau Truc, a famous noodle soup in Quy Nhon
If you take the Ky Co – Eo Gio tour, remember to enjoy this famous noodle dish of Quy Nhon.
7.6. Ga Chi Xoi Chay (Chicken with Crispy Sticky Rice)
Ga chi xoi chay is a rustic but very popular dish in Quy Nhon. Chicken is grilled, fried, or boiled, served with crispy fried sticky rice.
Travel experience in Quy Nhon, when taking the Ky Co – Eo Gio tour, don’t forget to enjoy ga chi xoi chay.
8. Suggested 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary to Explore Quy Nhon
Day 1:
- Morning: Phuong Mai Sand Dunes – Ky Co (swimming, snorkeling).
- Noon: Seafood lunch – Eo Gio – Tinh Xa Ngoc Hoa Pagoda.
- Evening: Free to explore Quy Nhon city at night.
Day 2:
- Morning: Mang Lang Church – Ghenh Da Dia (Cliff of Plates).
- Noon: Seafood lunch at Dam O Loan Lagoon.
- Afternoon: Bai Xep Hoa Vang (Yellow Flowers Beach).
- Evening: Free to explore Quy Nhon city at night.
Day 3:
- Morning: Buy local specialties – Twin Towers – Lang Song Church.
- Noon: End of the journey.
9. Quy Nhon Travel Tips
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and jackets to protect your skin from the sun.
- Book hotel rooms and flight/train/bus tickets in advance to ensure availability and good prices.
- Bring swimwear and snorkeling gear to participate in swimming and snorkeling activities.
- Research tourist attractions thoroughly and choose places that suit your interests.
- Enjoy Quy Nhon’s specialties.
- Maintain environmental hygiene and respect local culture.
Quy Nhon is increasingly becoming an attractive destination for domestic and international tourists. With these self-guided Quy Nhon travel experiences shared by “Du lịch khắp thế gian,” we hope you have a fun and memorable trip!