TOP 13 places to visit in Central Vietnam for a great journey

Contents

Have a look at the most popular places to visit in Central Vietnam (Source: Collected)

There are many exciting places to visit in Central Vietnam, making this region a top-tier choice for Vietnam travel. Central Vietnam is famed for both its landscape and culture, with many attractions garnering significant attention around the world. In this article, we will show you 13 of the best destinations in this region for your trip.

1. A glance at the Central Vietnam map

Central Vietnam consists of 18 provinces and 1 municipal city. The best places to visit in Central Vietnam belong to one of the three main areas: North Central Coast, South Central Coast, and Central Highlands.

• The North Central Coast consists of 6 provinces: Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, and Thua Thien – Hue. With a tropical monsoon climate, magnificent natural scenery, and colorful ethnic cultures, these provinces are perfect for an escape from the usual city life.
• The South Central Coast enjoys warmer climate and but still possesses immense landscape and diverse culture. With destinations like Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, and Binh Thuan, this region is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
• The Central Highlands: Situated at 500 to 1,500 meters above sea level, this region is known to be its own world. Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, and Lam Dong offer unique experiences to visitors, coupled with breathtaking scenery.

>>> Check out Central Vietnam weather to better prepare for your trip!

2. Best places to visit in Central Vietnam for beach lovers

The crown jewel of Central Vietnam is the long and beautiful coastline, which translates to pristine beaches across the region. Here are five of the best options for tourists to get their dose of “vitamin sea.”

2.1. Da Nang – a beautiful coastal city with stunning beaches

Da Nang’s exciting blend of natural and man-made beauty is its main appeal (Source: Collected)

Da Nang, the only municipal city in the entire Central region, is revered for its perfect blend of natural, cultural, and modern attractions. In terms of sun, sand, and sea, Son Tra Peninsula, Non Nuoc Beach, and My Khe Beach stand out for their unspoiled beauty, perfect for a vacation from April to September. On top of that, tourists can experience the culture of the city at Cham Museum Da Nang, conquer Hai Van Pass, and enjoy delicious Da Nang food like banh xeo, bun cha ca, and bun mam nem. Additionally, Da Nang also has an advantageous position, allowing visitors to reach other destinations in the region easily.

2.2. Nha Trang – one of the must-visit places on any Central Vietnam tour

Swing by VinWonders Nha Trang to experience the peak of entertainment in Vietnam

Nha Trang beaches are considered second to none in Vietnam. These attractions alone have catapulted Nha Trang to must-visit status, especially Hon Tre Island and Hon Mun Island, for summer or the early months of the year. If you are looking for something else aside from water activities, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Nha Trang Cathedral, mud bath in Nha Trang, and VinWonders Nha Trang will give you a myriad of interesting experiences. Moreover, Nha Trang is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam to taste fresh seafood and dishes inspired by these delicacies, such as jellyfish vermicelli, tuna eye, or grilled fish cake noodles.

>>> Book tickets to VinWonders Nha Trang to try out one of the largest amusement parks in the country!

2.3. Phan Thiet – famous for picturesque beaches and sand dunes

The sand dunes in Phan Thiet are both a wonderful sight and an exciting playground for tourists (Source: Collected)

Phan Thiet is the most popular city in Binh Thuan, most notably for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous sand dunes that seem to span miles. Not only can visitors bask in the sunny weather and enjoy sunbathing at the beaches; they can also try sand surfing. While summer is by far the best time to visit the city, Phan Thiet sees not much rain throughout the year, so tourists can rest assured that their time under the sun will not be cut short by the weather. Once you have explored your favorite beaches, head on to other attractions around the city, including Phan Thiet Water Tower, Duc Thanh School, Po Sah Inu Tower, etc.

2.4. Quy Nhon – an ideal place to visit in Central Vietnam

The pristine beaches in Quy Nhon make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Central Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Quy Nhon is home to one of the most special Vietnamese beaches. Queen Beach, named after the final Queen of Vietnam’s feudal era, is where many people come to unwind. Instead of exciting water activities, this reclusive beach appears somewhat closed off, providing a peaceful atmosphere. Literature lovers can visit Thi Nhan Hill as well as the final resting place of the poet Han Mac Tu to learn about the beautiful yet tragic story of one of the most transcendent names in Vietnamese literature. When it comes to food, Quy Nhon also serves up plenty of seafood dishes like sardine salad, crab noodles, and jellyfish noodles.

2.5. Phu Yen – an idyllic beach paradise to unwind

The pristine beaches in Quy Admire the picturesque setting of a famous Vietnamese film with your own eyes (Source: Collected) make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Central Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Phu Yen was once criminally underrated despite being located just about 120 kilometers away from Nha Trang. However, since it was featured in the film “Toi Thay Hoa Vang Tren Co Xanh,” it has garnered significant attention from both domestic and international travelers. The natural beauty of the beaches here, accompanied by the long-standing architectural works, have attracted numerous photography enthusiasts, giving them a shot to put together an aesthetically-pleasing album. Nhan Tower, Thanh Luong Pagoda, and Da Dia Reef will be gorgeous additions to your gallery, especially if you visit during the summer.

>>> Check out the Central Vietnam map to find the best attractions for your trip!

3. Ideal places to visit in Central Vietnam for culture and history lovers

The Central region of Vietnam includes many historical places in Vietnam, having bear witness to multiple events of great magnitude throughout the years. These are the best places to visit in Central Vietnam to uncover legendary tales of their origins:

3.1. Hue – a great place to travel back in time

Journey back in time to the historical attractions in Hue (Source: Collected)

Hue is one of the former capitals of Vietnam, so there is no doubt you will find some major landmarks during your visit here. Looking into the Hue map, you can drop by the tombs of the Nguyen Kings like Khai Dinh Tomb or Tu Duc Tomb while making your way to the main attraction: The Imperial City – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your journey, you may also feast your eyes upon and take memorable pictures of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda, or Dong Ba Market. At the local markets, you can easily find many food stalls selling bun bo hue, a homey noodle soup beloved by many, as well as banh mi, and Hue’s signature desserts.

3.2. Hoi An – a not-to-be-missed place in any Central Vietnam itinerary

VinWonders Nam Hoi An leads visitors to a fun-filled world

Many travelers have fallen in love with Hoi An and its undeniable mystique. The town seems to exist in a different era, familiar yet foreign, reclusive yet cozy. Its attractions, most notably Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Bridge, My Son Sanctuary, and Cantonese Assembly Hall, also carry an atmosphere that remains timeless. Hoi An street food like cao lau, wonton, Quang noodles, and Hoi An chicken rice showcases the foreign cultures that have left an impression on the town. Lastly, the amusement park of VinWonders Nam Hoi An will cap off your time in one of the most interesting places in Vietnam, where modernity meets tradition.

>>> Book tickets to VinWonders Nam Hoi An to explore a diverse world of entertainment!

3.3. Nghe An – a land rich in traditions

Nghe An is the hometown of President Ho Chi Minh (Source: Collected)

Nghe An is the largest province in the country. This historical destination has etched its name in books, having been the hometown of President Ho Chi Minh, one of the founding fathers that paved the way for Vietnam’s modern development. It may be difficult to visit all the attractions in Nghe An due to its large area, but one remains a must-visit, which is the National Special Relic Site Commemorating President Ho Chi Minh. Here, you can have a glimpse into the life of the most respected historical figure in Vietnam. From December to April should be ideal for a visit thanks to the pleasant weather of the dry season.

3.4. Ninh Thuan – where to admire the impressive Cham tower system

The underrated Ninh Thuan will surprise you with its charm (Source: Collected)

When putting together a Central Vietnam itinerary, many people often overlook Ninh Thuan due to it being the driest province in the country. However, don’t let the harsh weather prevent you from stopping by one of the best places to visit in Central Vietnam. The three contenders for the best attractions in Ninh Thuan are Rai Cave with its otherworldly rock formations, Vinh Hy Bay with its beautiful marine life, and Nui Chua National Park where all the natural wonders of Ninh Thuan collide. Ninh Thuan shares many of its delicacies with neighboring provinces, having fish cake noodles, sardine salad, chicken rice, and banh can.

3.5. Gia Lai – a land with a rich history of coffee production

Go above and beyond to try the best coffee in Vietnam in Gia Lai (Source: Collected)

Vietnamese coffee has been revered as one of the boldest and tastiest variations of coffee, and Gia Lai is part of the coffee kingdom of Vietnam. Traveling here from November to April gives you the ideal experience of sipping on a tasty cup of coffee while enjoying the breezy weather. You can take advantage of the pleasant atmosphere by coming to admire Bien Ho (T’Nung Lake), Buu Minh Pagoda, or Dai Doan Ket Square. Then, take a detour during your exploration to have a taste of Gia Lai’s cuisine, where rustic flavors prevail in dishes such as grilled chicken with bamboo rice, dried pho, and half-dried beef.

>>> Find out which are the best Central Vietnam cities to pay a visit to!

4. Great places to visit in Central Vietnam for nature lovers

Last but not least, the natural beauty of the region is not to be overlooked. While the previous destinations all have their fair share of breathtaking landscapes, these following destinations are the best places to visit in Vietnam to truly bask in nature. 

4.1. Quang Binh – home to stunning limestone karsts

The natural wonders of Quang Binh can steal your heart (Source: Collected)

Nature lovers will be like a kid in a candy store in Quang Binh, as this is home to Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. The spellbinding cave system with Son Doong Cave, Phong Nha Cave, and Paradise Cave should be more than enough to convince you to visit this province. Quang Binh is also known for its collection of historical landmarks and architectural works that you can admire during your journey. The street food scene is also amazing, as the province is known for banh bot loc, chat chat, a wide variety of seafood, and banh mi bot loc. Yes, the usual banh mi but with banh bot loc as filling, and it is absolutely delicious.

4.2. Da Lat – a great place to relax in the Central Highlands

Visit Da Lat to see why so many locals have been smitten by this quaint city (Source: Collected)

Da Lat’s tourism has seen tremendous growth over the last few years, having enjoyed its rise to one of the best places to visit in Central Vietnam and the entire country. Young travelers adore Da Lat for its blend of peaceful landscape and homey Central Vietnamese food. Pine trees and hills act as perfect backgrounds for pictures taken from adorable cafes located on the slopes nearby. On the other hand, Da Lat has revitalized the concept of Vietnamese food tour. Banh mi xiu mai, banh truong nuong, banh can, and chicken hotpot with a warm cup of soy milk have attracted thousands of tourists to this quaint city.

4.3. Dak Lak – a real treat for nature lovers

The Central Highlands and its rustic allure come through in Dak Lak (Source: Collected)

As another primary destination for coffee enthusiasts, you can feast your eyes on the immense landscape while enjoying your coffee in Dak Lak. Buon Don Tourist Area is where you can get up close and personal with elephants, don the traditional attire of ethnic minorities, and experience the cultural significance of the Central Highlands’ gong. Dak Lak is at its best from November to April, when you can freely explore the attractions in pleasant weather. On top of coffee, you must try Dak Lak’s signature dishes like bun do (red noodles), bo nhung me (beef dipped in tamarind), and banh uot thit nuong (grilled meat with rice cakes).

These best places to visit in Central Vietnam are all considered some of the most popular destinations in the entire country for their unique cultural traits, magnificent landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Each city or province offers something unique, yet they all exist harmoniously next to each other, forming a romantic region. For your next trip to Vietnam, plan an itinerary around this interesting region and try to visit as many of these destinations as possible.

Grab the hottest deals at VinWonders!