Quy Nhon is a quiet coastal city nestled in Vietnam’s Binh Dinh Province. It can rightfully be called a hidden gem of Vietnam because the more mainstream towns, such as Da Nang and Hoi An, tend to overshadow the appeal of Quy Nhon. It is definitely worth a visit, and visitors widely believe that Quy Nhon provides an authentic Vietnamese experience, offering an unspoiled glimpse into the everyday life of the Vietnamese people.

Image via Anantara Quy Nhon Villas

Quy Nhon is home to some of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches. Along the southeast coastline is Ghenh Rang Tien Sa, located in the heart of Ghenh Rang Hill. The landscape is a seamless blend of mountain and sea, and the name Tien Sa itself alludes to the mystical nature of the surroundings, roughly translating to "Fairy’s Landing." Popular beaches in the area include the famous Queen’s Beach, named in homage to the wife of King Bao Dai, and Bai Trung Beach. Bai Trung Beach is commonly referred to as "Egg Beach" due to the stacks of large stones in varying colours and sizes. The smooth, polished rocks are said to resemble eggs. Another must-visit is Ky Co Beach, located about 25 kilometres from Quy Nhon city centre. This beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and rocky cliffs, making it a perfect spot for swimming.

In addition to beaches, Quy Nhon is surrounded by captivating landscapes such as the Phuong Mai Peninsula and the Nhon Ly Sand Dunes. The sand dunes are particularly famous among photographers and tourists looking to experience the beauty of the shifting sands.

The Champa Kingdom was established in the early 2nd century and lay along the coast of present-day southern Vietnam. The indigenous Cham people ruled this territory, and the capital of the kingdom, Vijaya, lay just north of present-day Quy Nhon. Due to this, Quy Nhon is dotted with remnants of ancient Cham civilisation. The Banh It Towers, also known as the Silver Towers, date back to the 11th century. It has four main towers and is one of the great temple towers of the Champa Dynasty.

Another significant site is the Thap Doi Twin Towers, which feature intricate carvings and impressive architecture. These towers are easily accessible from the city and offer a great opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Cham people.

The Long Khanh Pagoda, located in the heart of Quy Nhon, is another cultural landmark worth visiting. This Buddhist temple, established in the early 18th century, showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture and is a peaceful place for reflection. For those interested in the history of Vietnam’s struggle for independence, the Quang Trung Museum provides insight into the life of the national hero Nguyen Hue and the Tay Son uprising.

For adventure enthusiasts, Quy Nhon offers a range of outdoor activities. Snorkelling and diving are popular at the nearby islands of Hon Kho and Hon Seo, where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life. For those who prefer land-based activities, hiking in the nearby mountains provides stunning views of the coastline and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Fishing and boat tours are also available for those looking to explore the area from the water.

Quy Nhon boasts a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets, from quaint local guesthouses to luxurious resorts that offer world-class amenities and services. For travellers seeking a high-end experience, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas is a standout Quy Nhon hotel choice.