Quy Nhon – Travel Guide to the Coastal City in Vietnam in 2026
Quy Nhon sits quietly on Vietnam’s central coast, but it’s no longer a “hidden secret”. In 2026, more international travelers are starting to notice its mix of calm beaches, coastal scenery and local life that still feels authentic. It’s a good choice if you want a slower pace than Nha Trang or Da Nang, but still enough things to see and do over a few days.
If you’re planning a trip that combines beach time with culture elsewhere in Vietnam, Quy Nhon works very well in a flexible itinerary. Many travelers now include it as one stop in tailor-made Vietnam tours, linking it with Hoi An, Hue, the Central Highlands or the Mekong Delta instead of just flying straight in and out of the big cities.
With long sandy bays, small islands, Cham ruins and fishing villages, Quy Nhon is less about one “must-see” landmark and more about the overall feel of the coast, the food and the friendly, everyday atmosphere.
Travel Guide to Quy Nhon, Vietnam in 2026
General introduction
Quy Nhon is the main city of Binh Dinh Province on Vietnam’s south-central coast. It lies about 650 km north of Ho Chi Minh City and around 1,065 km south of Hanoi. The city curves around a long bay, backed by low hills and the Vung Chua mountain range, sometimes called “the mountain in the middle of the coastal city”.
For international visitors, Quy Nhon is a good option if you want a coastal stop that is less commercial than some other beach cities. It works well for couples, small groups and family holidays in Vietnam, especially if you enjoy a mix of swimming, light hiking, sightseeing and local food rather than nightlife.
Beauty of Quy Nhon, Vietnam
When to travel to Quy Nhon?
Quy Nhon has a tropical coastal climate with a pronounced dry and rainy season.
- Dry season: roughly March to August. Hot, sunny, with calm seas most of the time.
- Rainy season: mainly September to December, sometimes stretching into January, with heavier showers and the risk of storms or rough sea conditions.
Best time to visit
For beach-focused trips, the best time to visit Quy Nhon is usually from March to September. Expect strong sun, clear water and relatively stable weather. This is ideal for island trips, snorkeling, swimming and outdoor activities.
July and August can be hotter and busier with domestic travelers, while late March to June and early September often feel a bit more relaxed. If you travel towards the end of the year, be prepared for possible rain and occasional trip changes due to weather.
Visiting in summer also lines up with several local events, such as the Cau Ngu (whale worship) ceremonies in coastal communities, martial arts events in Binh Dinh and international sailing or sports activities that may be held along the bay, depending on the year’s program.
How to get to Quy Nhon
By plane
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Quy Nhon. You’ll land at Phu Cat Airport (UIH), about 30–40 km from the city. There are frequent domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and often from other major cities such as Da Nang or Hai Phong depending on the season.
One-way fares on domestic airlines typically start from around 1,100,000 VND and can reach 2,900,000 VND or more in peak periods, depending on airline, booking date and demand. Prices in 2026 can fluctuate, so booking early and being flexible with dates is recommended.
By train
The Reunification railway line runs along Vietnam’s coast and is a scenic way to reach Binh Dinh. You can get off at Dieu Tri Station (the main stop for Quy Nhon) and continue by taxi or local transfer into the city.
- From Hanoi: typical fares from around 430,000 VND for basic seats up to about 1,300,000 VND or more for soft-sleeper berths, depending on class and train.
- From Ho Chi Minh City: from about 330,000 VND for seats up to around 1,000,000 VND+ for soft sleepers.
These ranges are indicative; in 2026, final prices depend on train type, booking channel and travel dates.
For more information: Train travel service in Vietnam
By bus or private car
Long-distance buses connect Quy Nhon with Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and other central-coast towns. Modern sleeper and limousine buses have made overnight travel more comfortable, though it is still slower than flying.
Typical bus fares are from about 600,000 to 900,000 VND per person, depending on route and quality.
If you prefer a flexible schedule and door-to-door travel, renting a car with a private driver is a popular option, especially for families or small groups. A driver can also take you on day trips around Quy Nhon’s coastal sights and villages.
Top 10 must-see places in Quy Nhon
Below are some of the most popular and photogenic places to include in a Quy Nhon itinerary in 2026.
1. Ky Co Beach
Ky Co is often described as the “Maldives of Vietnam”, with a curved bay of white sand and clear, shallow water in shades of blue and turquoise. It’s a good spot for swimming, relaxing on the beach and enjoying simple seafood meals. Access is usually by road and then boat or by organized tour that combines Ky Co with other coastal stops.
2. Hon Kho Island
Hon Kho is a small island known for coral reefs, calm water and a laid-back feel. It’s one of the more attractive spots in the area for snorkeling and beginner diving, and is often included in tours that depart from Nhon Hai fishing village. Wooden walkways and rock formations here make for good photos at low tide.
3. Ghenh Rang Tien Sa
Ghenh Rang Tien Sa is a coastal park area south of central Quy Nhon, with rocky outcrops, small coves and viewpoints over the bay. Hoang Hau (Queen’s) Beach, with its rounded stones, is a distinctive stop. Many visitors also combine a visit here with the nearby grave site of poet Han Mac Tu and a short walk to hilltop viewpoints.
4. Eo Gio
Eo Gio, around 20 km northeast of Quy Nhon in Nhon Ly commune, is one of the most photographed spots in the region. A walkway hugs the cliffs above the sea, with stone steps, railings and viewpoints looking down over waves and rocks. On clear days the water turns deep blue and you can feel the wind from the open sea. It’s best to visit in the dry season when the paths are safe and the sea is calmer.
Eo Gio in Quy Nhon, Vietnam
5. Banh It Towers
These Cham towers stand on a hill outside Quy Nhon and are one of Binh Dinh’s most important Cham heritage sites. The brick towers date back centuries and reflect Cham religious architecture, with carved details and a strong sense of place. The climb up offers wide views over the countryside, rice fields and villages.
6. Cu Lao Xanh Island
Cu Lao Xanh, sometimes called “the sleeping pearl”, lies off the coast and still feels relatively quiet compared with more famous islands elsewhere in Vietnam. Expect a combination of small beaches, lighthouse views, simple local houses and a slower, village pace. It’s a good option if you want a day trip that mixes boat travel, swimming and walking.
7. Sacred temples and pagodas
Quy Nhon and wider Binh Dinh have several temples and pagodas that combine sea views, hillside settings and local worship. Long Phuoc Pagoda, Ong Nui Pagoda (with a large Buddha statue overlooking the sea) and Thien Hung Pagoda are among the better-known sites. They’re ideal if you want quieter moments and a look at contemporary Buddhist practice in the region.
8. Fishing villages
Fishing villages like Bai Xep and Nhon Ly show a different side of Quy Nhon away from the city center.
- Bai Xep: A small bay with rocks, sand and basic guesthouses, popular with travelers who prefer a quieter stay. You can watch fishing boats come and go, see nets being dried and enjoy simple seafood meals on the shore.
- Nhon Ly: Located on the Phuong Mai Peninsula, this village has a strong fishing culture and traces of Cham heritage. Since 2023, colorful murals have appeared on some walls, reflecting sea life and local stories, adding a bit of art to the daily scene.
9. Trung Luong Camping Site
About 30 km from Quy Nhon, Trung Luong is a coastal camping and recreation area set among rocks and small coves. It attracts local families and young travelers who want to combine camping with sea views and photo spots. Facilities include tent rental, a small restaurant and basic services.
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 20:00 (subject to change)
- Entry fee: around 40,000 VND per person
- Two-person tent rental: from about 300,000 VND per night
Outside food and drinks are often restricted; always check the latest rules before you go.
What to eat in Quy Nhon: 6 local specialties
Quy Nhon’s food scene reflects central Vietnamese flavors with a strong influence from the sea. It’s easy to eat well here without spending much, and many visitors remember the food as a highlight of their stay.
1. Nem cha – grilled pork rolls
Nem cha in Quy Nhon is usually served with fresh herbs, rice paper and dipping sauce. The combination of grilled pork, crunchy vegetables and fish sauce with chili makes for a very local, hands-on meal.
Some popular places (information can change over time):
- Nem cha Loi – 113 and 249 Tang Bat Ha Street, Quy Nhon City
- Nem cha Ba Tam – 444 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Quy Nhon City
2. Fresh seafood
Seafood is a major reason many Vietnamese travelers come to Quy Nhon. Dishes like tamarind crab, grilled oysters with scallion oil, clams in lemongrass broth and snails cooked with coconut milk are common.
- Oc Co Xi – Dao Duy Tu Street, Quy Nhon City
- Nghia Ghe – 19 Vo Dinh Tu Street, Quy Nhon City
Discover more: Top 20 Delicious Vietnamese Seafood to Savor
3. Bun tom – shrimp noodles
Bun tom is a simple but flavorful bowl of rice noodles with fresh shrimp and light broth. It’s a good breakfast or light lunch option, especially if you want something local but not too heavy.
- Bun tom – bun ram, 234 Hoang Van Thu Street, Quy Nhon City
- Bun ram tom My Hanh – 48 Ngo Gia Tu Street, Quy Nhon City
4. Banh xeo tom nhay – sizzling shrimp pancakes
This version of Vietnamese banh xeo uses whole, fresh shrimp fried directly on the hot batter. The result is crisp pancakes filled with shrimp, bean sprouts and herbs, wrapped in rice paper and dipped in sweet–sour fish sauce. Very satisfying after a day at the beach.
Vietnamese Shrimp Pancakes in Quy Nhon
- Banh xeo Ong Hung – 24 Dien Hong Street, Quy Nhon City
- Banh xeo tom nhay rau mam – 91 Dong Da Street, Quy Nhon City
5. Banh canh – thick noodle soup
Banh canh is a bowl of thick, chewy tapioca or rice noodles in a rich broth, often with crab or shrimp. The Quy Nhon versions lean slightly sweet–savory and are popular with locals in the morning and evening.
- Banh canh tom Ba Bien – 173 Phan Dinh Phung Street, Quy Nhon City
- Banh canh cua O Hue – 30 Truong Chinh Street, Quy Nhon City
6. Banh trang nuoc dua – coconut rice paper
These coconut rice crackers are thin, fragrant and slightly sweet, with sesame seeds for extra texture. They’re usually grilled over charcoal before eating and make an easy snack or gift.
- Banh trang Dua Ba Quan – AH1, Tam Quan town, Binh Dinh
- Dac san Xu Nau Thuy Trinh – 03 Tang Bat Ho Street, Quy Nhon City
Events and festivals in Quy Nhon
Taking part in local festivals can add a lot of color to your travel to Vietnam. Dates below follow the lunar calendar, so exact solar dates in 2026 may vary and should be checked closer to travel time.
1. Dong Da – Tay Son Festival
Held at the Quang Trung Museum in Tay Son District, this festival honors Emperor Quang Trung (Nguyen Hue) and his victory at the Battle of Ngoc Hoi. The celebration includes ceremonies, martial arts performances, processions and traditional games, showcasing Binh Dinh’s strong martial heritage.
- Location: Quang Trung Museum, Phu Phong Commune, Tay Son District
- Typical time: early in the first lunar month (around late January or February)
2. Cau Ngu (Whale Worship) Festival
This coastal festival expresses fishermen’s gratitude to the whale deity and prays for calm seas and good catches. The day includes rituals at communal houses or temples, followed by community games, boat races and singing.
- Location: Coastal areas of Hoai Nhon, Phu My, Phu Cat, Tuy Phuoc and Quy Nhon City
- Typical time: often in the first half of the lunar year (commonly around spring–early summer)
3. Boat racing festival
Boat races on rivers or along the beach bring together local teams in a lively, noisy atmosphere. Crowds gather along the banks to cheer, making it an energetic way to experience local community spirit after the Lunar New Year period.
- Location: Chien Thang Square Beach or nearby waterways in Quy Nhon City
- Typical time: around the first lunar month (roughly February or early March)
Boat Racing Festival in Quy Nhon
4. Binh Dinh international martial arts festival
Binh Dinh is known as the cradle of Vietnamese traditional martial arts. Every two years, an international festival gathers martial arts schools from across Vietnam and abroad. There are demonstrations, competitions, parades and cultural exchanges.
- Location: Nguyen Tat Thanh Square and other venues in Quy Nhon and Binh Dinh
- Typical time: often scheduled around August in festival years; the exact 2026 dates should be checked on official announcements closer to your trip.
Suggested 4-day, 3-night itineraries in Quy Nhon
Option 1: Islands and coastal highlights
Day 1: Arrival at Phu Cat Airport – visit Cham Towers/Twin Towers – continue to Nhon Hai fishing village – boat trip to Hon Kho Island – seafood dinner.
Day 2: Full-day tour to Ky Co Beach and Eo Gio – sunset in the city – explore street food alley and Quy Nhon night market.
Day 3: Ghenh Rang Tien Sa – Bai Xep fishing village – free time for swimming or café hopping – optional massage in the evening.
Day 4: Short coastal stop (for example, Cua Bien area) – quick visit to Banh It Towers – transfer to Phu Cat Airport.
Option 2: Islands, pagodas and local life
Day 1: Phu Cat Airport – Cham Towers/Twin Towers – Ghenh Rang Tien Sa – Bai Xep fishing village, dinner at a beach restaurant.
Day 2: Thi Nai Bridge viewpoint – Eo Gio and Ky Co by canoe or tour – night market in the city.
Day 3: Ham Tu Jetty – day trip to Cu Lao Xanh Island (swimming, snorkeling, lighthouse views) – back to Quy Nhon for street food alley in the evening.
Day 4: Visit Ong Nui Pagoda or another coastal temple – Trung Luong camping area or viewpoint stop – transfer to Phu Cat Airport.
With its beaches, islands, food and relatively relaxed pace, Quy Nhon is well-suited to travelers who want a less commercial coastal stop in Vietnam. In 2026, it’s likely to keep gaining attention, but it still feels local enough that you can sit in a small café, watch fishing boats at dawn and feel that your Vietnam trip has slowed down a little in the best way.
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FAQs about Quy Nhon, Vietnam
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