Why visit Quy Nhon? A travel guide to top attractions and experiences in Vietnam’s idyllic coastal city 

Quy Nhon is one of Vietnam’s laid-back beach resort towns. It is known as a rapidly growing travel destination for a reason. Often referred to as the 'Emerald Gem of Central Vietnam', this authentic city is famed for its untouched, pristine beaches and tantalising seafood. The ancient Cham history is another tourist magnet. Since it is a lesser-known travel destination, you will also find more privacy there. Here are some reasons to place your next vacation in Quy Nhon.

Pristine and serene beaches 

Compared to more tourist-thronged coastal cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang, Quy Nhon is a less crowded destination. One of its main attractions is its powdery white beaches. The natural landscapes in these serene spots have also remained untouched, as they are hidden gems. You will be given the opportunity to escape the mass tourism and enjoy a coastal area which you will have pretty much to yourself. Some of the best beaches you can place yourself on are Quy Nhon City Beach, Ky Co Beach, Bai Xep Beach and Hon Kho Beach. Have a splendid time at these places engaging in activities such as swimming, sunbathing, night strolls, snorkelling, shallow diving, kayaking and more. Catch some enchanting sunsets while strolling with your soulmate hand in hand. Since these offer a mix of relaxation and water activities, they are great family destinations as well.

World-class resort amenities 

Though Quy Nhon is a lesser-travelled tourist spot, it by no means lacks opulence. Some of the resorts in this area are nestled in their own private cocoons, such as exclusive stretches of coastline. Many of them also emphasise holistic wellbeing in nature-filled settings such as open-air pavilions and even cliff-top treatment settings. Luxury resorts in Vietnam also come with facilities such as beachfront villas with private plunge pools. Properties like Anantara Quy Nhon Villas have villas featuring private plunge pools or infinity-style swimming pools. High-end, multi-sensory dining experiences are also available in this region, and you will find them on private beaches or cliff sides, pleasing your palate as well as all your senses.

Image via Anantara Quy Nhon Villas

Ancient Champa heritage

Quy Nhon is known as the heart of the ancient Champa Empire's Vijaya capital. You get well-preserved Cham towers that date back almost 1000 years. Architectural enthusiasts can have a gala time exploring the Hindu-inspired designs and mortarless brickwork at these places. Some of the prominent sites you need to visit include Banh It Towers, Thap Doi, and Cha Ban Citadel. Since fewer visitors head for these places, you can engage in peaceful archaeological experiences there. These places will also take you on a journey across three empires: the ancient Champa civilisation, the heroic Tay Son Dynasty, and the Nguyen Dynasty. 

Local seafood delights 

Quy Nhon is exceptionally close to the ocean. Therefore, fresh seafood is a staple in this location. A majority of the popular dishes in this area are made using sea-based ingredients that have been transported from the ocean to your plate in quick succession. You get exceptional varieties such as royal crab served as specialities. Charcoal-grilled seafood specials are much in demand among locals and foreigners. Some of the local seafood delicacies you need to sink your teeth into include the city’s signature dish, Bánh Xèo Tôm Nhay (jumping shrimp pancake), Bún Chả Cá (fish cake noodle soup), Bún Sứa (jellyfish noodle soup), Ốc Biển (fresh sea snails) and Hàu Nướng Phô Mai (grilled oysters with cheese). You can seek out these local seafood experiences for affordable prices at areas like Ngoc Han Cong Chua Food Street.