About Quang Nam
Quang Nam is located in central Vietnam and boasts a rich history that dates back to the Sa Huynh civilization, whose influence spanned from 1000 BCE to 200 CE. Later, the Cham people established their religious capital, Amaravati, in the valley of My Son, which remains a significant historical site today. The area later came under the control of the Dai Viet, who developed Hoi An into a thriving international trading port before its decline due to shifting river routes.
Today, Quang Nam is best known for Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed ancient town that draws travelers from around the world. Beyond this iconic destination, the province offers 125 kilometers of coastline, 10 islands, and vast forests that cover half its area, including two nature reserves. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness, there’s no shortage of things to do in Quang Nam for curious travelers.
Best time to visit Quang Nam
Quang Nam is located in central Vietnam, sharing a similar climate with neighboring Da Nang and Hue. The region experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The best weather for exploring Quang Nam is during the dry season, which runs from February to August. The best time to visit is between March and May, when temperatures are pleasant, skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal—perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
From September to January, the rainy season brings frequent showers and occasional typhoons, especially in October and November. While this can limit outdoor activities and beach times, it’s still possible to enjoy the cultural and historical sites, particularly in Hoi An. December and January are cooler, which some travelers may find refreshing, though it’s less ideal for beach visits.
How to travel to Quang Nam
Quang Nam’s most popular destination is Hoi An, which is more conveniently connected to Da Nang than other transportation hubs within Quang Nam, such as Tam Ky and Chu Lai Airport. Travelers often reach Quang Nam via Da Nang and then continue to Hoi An or other locations within the province.
Flights to Quang Nam
Quang Nam is served by two airports:
Da Nang Airport (recommended for Hoi An)
Da Nang Airport, located in the nearby city of Da Nang, is the best option for travelers heading to Hoi An. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Hoi An, and taxis or pre-arranged cars are readily available to take you directly to your accommodation. As Vietnam’s third busiest airport, Da Nang offers extensive domestic and international connections:
Domestic flights:
- Hanoi – Da Nang: 1.5 hours
- Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang: 1.5 hours
- Nha Trang – Da Nang: 1 hour
- Dalat – Da Nang: 1 hour
International flights:
- Destinations include Thailand, South Korea, Cambodia, China, Taiwan, Japan, and Malaysia.
Chu Lai Airport
Chu Lai Airport is located in Quang Nam Province, but it’s farther from Hoi An (1.5-hour drive) than Da Nang Airport (30-minute drive). It has limited connectivity, with only 1-2 daily flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. While not the best option for Hoi An, it can be useful if you’re heading to Tam Ky or exploring Tam Hai Island or southern parts of Quang Nam.
Bus options
Hoi An has plenty of bus connections, though you may need to transfer via Da Nang for certain routes. Sleeper buses are widely used by locals for long distances due to their affordability, but they are less suitable for travelers because of the long travel times to major destinations.
Bus travel times to Hoi An:
- Hue – Hoi An: 3 hours (realistic option)
- Quy Nhon – Hoi An: 5-6 hours (realistic option)
- Hanoi – Hoi An: 16-18 hours (not recommended)
- Ninh Binh – Hoi An: 13-14 hours (not recommended)
- Ho Chi Minh City – Hoi An: 17-20 hours (not recommended)
For shorter routes, buses are a viable option. For longer journeys, consider flights or trains instead.
Traveling by train
While Quang Nam has train stations, the most convenient one for Hoi An is in Da Nang.
Da Nang train station
As the largest train hub between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang Train Station connects to most major cities in Vietnam. Once you arrive, it’s easy to take a 30-minute taxi to Hoi An. Popular routes include:
- Hue – Da Nang: 2.5-3 hours
- Hanoi – Da Nang: 15-16 hours
- Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang: 16-17 hours
Tam Ky Station
Located about an hour’s drive from Hoi An, Tam Ky Station is a smaller station with limited connections. It’s more practical for those exploring southern Quang Nam than for reaching Hoi An.
Tip for traveling from Hue to Hoi An
The fastest route from Hue to Hoi An involves driving on the highway and passing through a tunnel, but this bypasses some of the most stunning scenery in central Vietnam. To make the most of this journey, consider traveling via the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal roads.
Options for this route include:
- Private car with driver: Drive over the Hai Van Pass and stop at highlights like the Marble Mountains, Lap An Lagoon, and Lang Co Beach.
- Easy Rider (motorbike): Ride on the back of a motorbike with a guide for an adventurous experience.
- Train: The railway runs along the coastline, offering spectacular views, but it doesn’t allow for stops along the way like traveling by road does.
Getting around Quang Nam
Quang Nam offers a variety of transportation options for exploring its attractions, from organized tours to independent modes of travel like cycling and motorbiking. Each option has its pros and cons depending on your destination, budget, and comfort level.
Organised tours: private & group
Organized tours are a convenient way to visit popular destinations in Quang Nam without worrying about transportation or logistics. Group tours are budget-friendly, while private tours provide a more personalized experience, albeit at a higher cost. Popular day tours include:
- My Son Sanctuary: Explore the Cham ruins with a guide, typically as a half-day tour.
- Cham Island: Reachable by speedboat, ideal for snorkeling or relaxing on the beach.
- Da Nang: Visit highlights like Marble Mountains and Son Tra Peninsula.
Taxi
Taxis are practical for short trips around Hoi An, such as between the old town, beaches, and countryside accommodations. Many travelers prefer using Grab, a ride-hailing app, because it offers transparent pricing and the convenience of booking rides in less-touristed areas.
However, for exploring deeper into Quang Nam, taxis are less suitable due to higher costs and limited availability.
Renting a car with driver
For sightseeing or longer trips, hiring a car with a driver is a more convenient option than a taxi. You’ll receive a fixed price upfront, and the driver will wait for you at each stop. This option is popular for:
- Ba Na Hills: A unique theme park near Da Nang, famous for its Golden Hands Bridge, French-style architecture, and cool mountain climate.
- My Son Sanctuary: Perfect for exploring the ancient Cham ruins with the flexibility of your own schedule.
- Custom sightseeing itineraries: Ideal for visiting remote beaches, inland areas, or crafting a day trip tailored to your interests.
Cycling
Cycling is one of the most enjoyable ways to get around Hoi An and its surroundings. Many accommodations provide free bikes, which are perfect for short rides between attractions like the Old Town, An Bang Beach, and the nearby countryside.
For longer rides, such as exploring rural villages or venturing further afield, you can join guided cycling tours that include high-quality bikes and experienced guides.
Scooter or motorbike
Renting a scooter is a popular choice for travelers seeking flexibility and ease of travel. Prices typically start from 150,000 VND (around $6 USD) per day, and scooters are widely available for rent in Hoi An. This option is great for visiting attractions further afield, such as My Son Sanctuary or the scenic coastline.
Important considerations:
- Driver’s license: While rental shops rarely ask for a license and police checks are uncommon, it’s recommended to have a valid license and International Driving Permit (IDP) to ensure insurance coverage.
- Experience required: Traffic is light in the countryside and along the coast, but it’s not an ideal place to learn how to drive a scooter. Basic experience is highly recommended.
Things to do in Quang Nam
Quang Nam is a diverse province offering visitors a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. While most people know it for Hoi An, Quang Nam also boasts stunning beaches, ancient ruins, rural countryside, and even lesser-known highlands and islands. This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Quang Nam, from iconic attractions to hidden gems.
1. Hoi An
Hoi An is a beautifully preserved ancient trading town and one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations. Known for its rich history, charming old streets, and vibrant cultural life, it offers a mix of historical exploration, local markets, and modern comforts.
You can here read our full list of things to do in Hoi An.
Historical buildings
Hoi An is like stepping into history, with its narrow streets lined with well-preserved buildings from its time as a bustling port town. Notable sights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese-style assembly halls like the Fujian Assembly Hall, and a variety of ancient houses. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and simply wandering through its streets feels like walking back in time.
Markets
Hoi An is famous for its lively markets. The Central Market gives you a glimpse of daily local life, with fresh produce, spices, and traditional street food. In the evening, the Night Market lights up with lanterns and offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for trying street food and shopping for souvenirs.
Tailors
One of Hoi An’s unique offerings is its tailoring industry. Known for its skilled craftsmen, the town has hundreds of tailor shops where you can get custom-made clothing at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere.
2. My Son Sanctuary
My Son Sanctuary is a cluster of ancient Hindu temples built by the Cham civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries. It served as a religious and political center for the Cham people and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The intricate carvings, red-brick structures, and lush jungle surroundings make it a fascinating place to explore.
Located about 40 kilometers (1-1.5 hours) from Hoi An, My Son is a popular destination for half-day tours. Guided tours provide valuable insights into the history and architecture of the site and often include additional activities like visiting local workshops or a boat ride on the river.
3. Cham Island
Cham Island, or Cu Lao Cham, is a small island group off the coast of Quang Nam. It features pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a picturesque getaway. The island is part of the Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its ecological significance.
Cham Island is a popular day-trip destination, where visitors can relax on the beaches, snorkel, or walk through the small fishing village to see local life. Basic accommodations are available for those who want to stay overnight and enjoy the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
4. Relaxing on Beaches
Quang Nam’s coastline stretches for 125 kilometers, offering a variety of beaches to suit different tastes. The beaches near Hoi An are the most popular, with boutique hotels and restaurants, while those further away are quieter but less maintained.
Tip: Before planning a beach holiday, check the best time to visit Hoi An, as the rainy season can limit your options.
An Bang Beach
Known for its laid-back vibe, An Bang Beach is a favorite among expats and visitors. It has boutique hotels, small villas, and a variety of restaurants offering fresh seafood and international cuisine. The area exudes a hip, relaxed atmosphere.
Cua Dai Beach
Cua Dai is more developed, with larger resorts. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a luxury beach experience.
Beaches Beyond Hoi An
Traveling further down the coast leads to quieter beaches, often near small fishing villages. These areas provide a glimpse into local life, with basket boats, beachside fish markets, and fewer tourists. Some beaches are perfect for an early morning visit to watch fishermen bring in their catch.
5. Cycling Through the Countryside
Beyond the famous sights of Hoi An, the surrounding countryside is one of Quang Nam’s biggest highlights. Within just a few minutes of cycling from the old town, you can find yourself amidst lush rice fields, small villages, and quiet roads perfect for exploration. While not as dramatic as northern Vietnam’s landscapes, the flat terrain and close proximity make it an ideal area for cycling.
Many accommodations in Hoi An provide free bicycles, perfect for short trips to nearby beaches like An Bang or Cua Dai and exploring the surrounding villages. For longer or more in-depth experiences, guided biking tours are available, often including stops at local workshops, farms, and other cultural sites.
Other activities in the countryside
- Cooking classes: Learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes with local chefs. Many classes begin with a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village: A peaceful farming community where you can learn about organic farming and even try your hand at planting vegetables.
- Bay Mau Coconut Forest: Explore this lush water coconut forest in a traditional basket boat.
6. Boat Trips Through Canals and Rivers
Quang Nam’s countryside is crisscrossed with rivers, canals, and flooded mangrove forests, making boat trips a popular way to explore. Whether you prefer motorized boat tours or paddling through narrow waterways, there are plenty of options to suit different preferences.
Thu Bon River Boat Trip
The Thu Bon River is one of the most scenic waterways in central Vietnam. A boat trip along the river offers stunning views of Hoi An’s old town, rice fields, and nearby craft villages. Many tours combine a boat ride with visits to villages specializing in pottery, carpentry, or other traditional crafts.
Basket Boat in Bay Mau Coconut Forest
Located near Hoi An, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest is often compared to a mini-Mekong Delta. You can explore its narrow waterways in traditional round basket boats, often guided by locals who showcase fun tricks and even traditional fishing techniques.
Rowing Boats Through Hoi An
In the late afternoon, small rowing boats in Hoi An’s old town offer short trips along the river. These boats, adorned with lanterns, are popular for their romantic ambiance rather than sightseeing, as they stay close to the town.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
For active travelers, kayaking and paddleboarding offer a quieter, more fun way to explore the waterways. Tours are available near Hoi An, and these activities are ideal for avoiding the more touristy boat tours.
7. Visiting Craft Villages
Craft villages are an integral part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage, with entire communities specializing in a single craft passed down through generations. In Quang Nam, these villages offer a fascinating look into traditional craftsmanship.
Notable craft villages:
- Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Known for its skilled woodworkers who create everything from furniture to intricate carvings.
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Famous for its traditional ceramics, where visitors can watch artisans at work and even try their hand at pottery.
8. Tam Ky
Tam Ky, the capital of Quang Nam Province, is much less touristy than Hoi An but offers a quieter, more local experience. While the city itself has a few attractions, such as the Quang Nam Museum and the Van Mieu (Temple of Literature), the surrounding area has more unique sights worth visiting.
Tam Thanh Mural Village
This fishing village became a tourist attraction after its walls were painted with colorful murals depicting local life and culture. It’s a delightful stop for photography enthusiasts and those looking for something different.
Ky Anh Tunnels
A historical site showcasing underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore parts of the tunnel network and learn about the ingenuity and resilience of those who used it.
9. Local Markets
Beyond Hoi An’s well-known markets, Quang Nam is home to many local markets that serve as hubs of daily life. Coastal villages often host early-morning seafood markets, where fishermen bring in their catch. These markets offer an authentic glimpse into local life, with bustling stalls selling fresh fish, crabs, and squid directly from the boats.
Inland markets focus more on fresh produce, household goods, and local specialties. Visiting these markets is a great way to experience the daily rhythm of life in Quang Nam.
10. Exploring the Highlands & Ethnic Villages
Quang Nam is more than just beaches and historical towns—its highlands offer a completely different experience. Around a 90-minute drive from Hoi An, the Dong Giang area feels like a world away, with lush mountains, authentic rural life, and communities of ethnic people who still follow traditional ways of living.
Dhroong Ethnic Villages
The Dhroong ethnic villages in Dong Giang are home to the Co Tu people, an ethnic minority with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can observe traditional stilt houses, weaving, and other aspects of their daily life. Visits are best arranged through a local guide or tour to ensure respectful interactions and support for the community.
Dong Giang Tea Hills
Dong Giang is also home to scenic tea hills, where rows of vibrant green tea plants stretch across the landscape. While smaller and less developed than tea-growing areas in Da Lat or Moc Chau, the Dong Giang tea hills are a peaceful spot to visit and enjoy fresh mountain air.
11. Tam Hai Island
Tam Hai Island, located off the coast of southern Quang Nam, is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility. The island is accessible by ferry and is known for its quiet beaches, fishing villages, and laid-back atmosphere. Unlike the busier Cham Island, Tam Hai offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
While facilities on the island are basic, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, explore sandy shores, and watch locals fishing with traditional methods. It’s an excellent destination for a day trip or a short escape from the mainland.
12. Phu Ninh
Phu Ninh is an inland area known for its natural beauty and historical sites.
Phu Ninh Lake
Phu Ninh Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in Vietnam, surrounded by rolling hills and forests. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, swimming, or relaxing by the lakeside. The area also has hot springs and picnic spots, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Chien Dan Cham Towers
The Chien Dan Cham Towers are a group of three ancient Cham towers built in the 10th century. Located in a quiet rural setting, these towers are less visited than My Son Sanctuary but offer a glimpse into the Cham civilization’s architectural style and history.
7. Where to stay in Quang Nam
Quang Nam offers a wide variety of accommodation options, catering to different preferences and budgets. While most accommodations are concentrated around Hoi An, there are also options along the coast and in rural areas for those seeking a more local or tranquil experience.
Around Hoi An Ancient Town
There are no hotels directly within the Hoi An Ancient Town, as the area is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, you’ll find plenty of options just outside the old town, many within walking distance of the main sights, markets, cafes, and restaurants. Staying nearby allows you to easily explore the town while enjoying the convenience of modern amenities.
Beaches
For beach lovers, Hoi An’s coastline offers two distinct areas:
- An Bang Beach: Best for those looking for a laid-back atmosphere, boutique hotels, and small villas. It has a hip, relaxed vibe and is popular with expats and travelers seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Cua Dai Beach: A better choice for those seeking larger resorts with more facilities. Keep in mind that both beaches are seasonal, and a visit during the rainy season may not be ideal.
Countryside Around Hoi An
The countryside surrounding Hoi An provides a more peaceful setting compared to staying near the bustling old town. Many accommodations in this area offer a serene environment while still being conveniently close—just a short bike ride to either the ancient town or the beaches. This is an excellent option for travelers who want to enjoy the tranquility of rural Vietnam without sacrificing accessibility.
Accommodations beyond Hoi An
While most visitors prefer to stay near Hoi An, there are accommodations available in other parts of Quang Nam:
- Along the Coast: There are some options near Tam Ky, offering quiet beaches and local seafood markets. These are better suited for those looking to experience a less touristy part of the province.
- Inland and Rural Areas: For travelers seeking a completely off-the-beaten-path experience, accommodations can be found in rural settings and even highland areas. However, these locations are far from Hoi An, and staying here may be more practical for exploring nearby provinces or specific attractions like Tam Hai Island or Dong Giang highlands.
