Nha Trang, located along the coast of Vietnam, is a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and modern amenities. From pristine beaches to cultural landmarks, this coastal town offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers seeking relaxation, adventure, and exploration. In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about visiting Nha Trang, from transportation options to accommodation choices and the top attractions that await you.
Nha Trang – a Beach Side Gem
Getting to and from the Airport
The first thing you need to be aware of is that the airport for Nha Trang is called Cam Ranh – which can be very confusing when you have booked for Nha Trang and get to the airport and can’t find this location. It is quite a distance from Nha Trang Airport, located approximately 35 kilometers south of the city center, and takes about 50 minutes to reach the city – although most of the journey is along the coast and has some lovely views!
Upon arrival, travelers have several transportation options to reach their accommodation in Nha Trang.
Shuttle Bus
This is the easiest option and costs 65,000 VND for the one-way journey. There is no need to book – instead, the large yellow stand is prominently located as soon as you leave the airport building and you can buy a ticket on demand.
There are a few stops along the way – although be aware that only Vietnamese is spoken on the bus so if you are unsure where to get off make sure that you show your accommodation address to someone on the bus and they will help you know when to get off.
The shuttle bus is air conditioned and comfortable with reclining seats with a separate space for your luggage.
It is important to note that returning to the airport is a little more complicated. Although the shuttle bus does return to the airport there are conflicting views on when it exactly leaves – which is not really suitable when racing for a plane – as a result, your best option for the return journey is to ask for help from your hotel and they will phone up a local company which goes to the airport ( there are several ) who will come and pick you up directly from the hotel. Although the price is higher ( 100,000 VND rather than 65,000 ) it is well worth the extra to be guaranteed that you will arrive on time.
When returning to the airport please note that the international and domestic terminals are about a 10-minute walk apart (which can seem a long way in the heat ) so make sure that you check which terminal you are at before getting off the bus.
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The shuttle bus is a cheap and easy option for getting to and from Nha Trang town
Taxi
For travellers seeking a more direct route to their accommodation, taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. While slightly more expensive than the shuttle bus, taxis provide a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, especially for those with bulky luggage or traveling in groups.
Where to Stay in Nha Trang
Nha Trang offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s preference and budget. Whether you’re seeking luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find plenty of choices scattered across the city. Here are a few recommended areas to consider for your stay:
Resorts
Many of the international hotels such as the Sheraton and Raddison Blu etc have resorts in Nha Trang. It is important to note however that these are located quite close to the airport and are thus a very long way from the main town. This may be fine if you only want to stay within the resort but if you would like to wander in the town as well then you may find it time-consuming to have to make the journey frequently.
Nha Trang Beach
The most upmarket area is along ( or even on ) the beach with a range of beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views. Here, you’ll find a wide range of luxury resorts and hotels offering high-class amenities, including swimming pools, spa facilities, and beachfront dining options.
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With a very long beach, there are a lot of wonderful beachfront accommodation options
Tran Phu Street
Tran Phu Street, running parallel to Nha Trang Beach, is lined with a diverse array of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels catering to different budgets and preferences. This bustling thoroughfare offers easy access to the beach, as well as an abundance of dining and entertainment options.
Backpacker Area
Travellers on a budget will find affordable accommodations in the backpacker area, located around Pham Van Dong Street. Here, you’ll find budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, and homestays, as well as lively bars and restaurants frequented by travellers from around the world.
Main Attractions in Nha Trang
Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, it’s time to explore the enchanting attractions that Nha Trang has to offer. Here are some must-visit attractions:
Nha Trang Beach
No visit to Nha Trang is complete without spending time at its iconic beach. Stretching for kilometers along the coastline, Nha Trang Beach offers soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and a host of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing.
Vinpearl Land
Located on Hon Tre Island, just off the coast of Nha Trang, Vinpearl Land is a sprawling entertainment complex that offers fun for the whole family. From thrilling amusement rides and water slides to a sprawling aquarium and cultural performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this tropical paradise. This is a very popular location so make sure that you book your tickets in advance during busy seasons to avoid a long wait in queue for tickets.
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Vinpearl land is only accessible by cable car or speed boat making even the journey there part of the experience
Po Nagar Cham Towers
The Po Nagar Cham Towers are a collection of ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 7th century. Located on a hill overlooking the city, these impressive towers offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, as well as insight into Vietnam’s fascinating history.
Long Son Pagoda
Long Son Pagoda is one of the city’s most revered religious sites. Consisting of a range of pagodas and gardens, the highlight is the towering white Buddha statue at the top of a long trail of steps – although well worth the climb!
Although a long way up, the climb is gentle with lots of places to stop en route and the Buddha at the top is well worth the climb
Hon Mun Island
With a large port area on the outskirts of the town, it is easy to take a scenic boat trip to Hon Mun Island, which is part of the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area and is well known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
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Nha Trang, with its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant attractions, offers a captivating blend of relaxation and adventure for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil beach retreat, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a cultural immersion, this coastal gem has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, embark on a journey to Nha Trang, and prepare to be enchanted by all that this charming destination has to offer.
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