Joanna James
While it may not be as popular as Danang or even Nha Trang, Quy Nhon remains one of Vietnam's finest beach holiday destinations. From splashing around to touring the area's main highlights here are the top things to do during a getaway to this coastal city.
With so many religious attractions to its name, no holiday in Quy Nhon would be complete without spending time in its captivating Buddhist temples. Some of the most visited spiritual hubs in the area include the Chua Hien Nam and Chua Minh Tịnh temples while the Chua Long Khanh is another temple that's situated close to the city centre. Although temples the likes of Chua Tam An Tu and Chua Pho Minh are not in the heart of the city, they are no less impressive than their city-dwelling counterparts, especially when it comes to architectural features. The largest of the temples in Quy Nhon is of course the Chua Long Khanh, which dates back to the 18th century.
Often regarded as one of the most rewarding things to do during a vacation in Quy Nhon, signing up for a snorkelling tour around the breathtaking Phuong Mai Peninsula is a must for all water sports enthusiasts. The reef near Nhon Ly fishing village is not only teeming with marine life but also coral species that provide sustenance to countless sea-dwelling creatures. A snorkelling tour of the peninsula also offers travellers the chance to go dune bashing in the Phuong Mai sand dunes.
Those who travelled to Quy Nhon on The Vietage or via other means must also explore the region's most illustrious museums during a stay in this coastal paradise. Quy Nhon travel itineraries often list the Binh Dinh museum as the foremost authority on the Cham dynastic era while the institution also delves into the Vietnam War and America's role in it. Some of the most prized artefacts on show at the venue include American weaponry and other remnants from the conflict. Constructed to honour the memory of Emperor Quang Trung who reigned during the Tay Son era, the locale also showcases various relics dating back to the Tay Son rebellion.
Every holiday affords travellers the chance to give back to the community they are exploring and a visit to the Nguyen Nga Center is perhaps the perfect way to contribute to a worthy cause while picking up some fantastic souvenirs of your trip. Retailing handicrafts such as bags, clothing, bookmarks and other keepsakes made by those with special needs, the Nguyen Nga Center is a charitable organization that helps disabled individuals to thrive despite their disabilities.
Ranked among Vietnam's culinary heartlands, a beach vacation in Quy Nhon is the perfect excuse to dig into the array of street food available in this seafood haven. Tourists will find every seafood variety imaginable grilled to perfection on street corners while local delicacies the likes of Banh Xeo and Bun Thit Nuong dishes are also worth trying for noodle lovers.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
