Quang Nam is a coastal province in central Vietnam, flanked by the famous city of Da Nang to the north and the province of Quang Ngai to the south. The province boasts a rich diversity of landscapes: sandy beaches, lush mountains, tranquil countryside, and dense forests. In addition to its natural attractions, Quang Nam is also known for its cultural and historical treasures, including Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the archaeological site of My Son, a relic of the Champa civilization.

Often overshadowed by more popular tourist destinations such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, this region nevertheless deserves the full attention of travelers in search of authenticity and natural beauty. To fully appreciate this hidden gem, it's important to know when and how to visit Quang Nam. This article offers a detailed guide to planning your trip to this magnificent Vietnamese province, as well as the best things to see and do there.

When to visit Quang Nam?

Quang Nam, home to iconic destinations like Hoi An and My Son Sanctuary, offers a variety of experiences throughout the year. The best time to visit can be determined by both the region's climate and its vibrant festivals.

By climate and seasons

Quang Nam's tropical climate is divided into two main seasons: dry and rainy.

Dry Season (February to August)

This is the best time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach relaxation. Expect sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, especially from March to May when it’s not too hot. If you're planning to explore Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets or relax on An Bang Beach, these months offer the ideal weather. From June to August, temperatures rise, making it perfect for beach lovers.

Rainy Season (September to January)

The wet season brings heavy rain and occasional flooding, especially from October to November, making outdoor activities more challenging. However, if you don't mind the rain, this period is less crowded, and you may enjoy a quieter experience. Plus, the landscape becomes lush and green.

By festivals and events

Quang Nam is known for its rich cultural festivals, which can be a perfect reason to visit at specific times.

Tet Nguyen Dan (January or February)

Vietnam’s Lunar New Year is the most significant festival of the year, and Quang Nam bursts with festive activities. Streets are decorated, and traditional performances can be witnessed, especially in Hoi An. However, this is peak travel season for locals.

Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu)

Usually in September, this festival is celebrated with dragon dances and lanterns. Children parade through the streets with lanterns, creating an enchanting spectacle.

Hoi An Lantern Festival (monthly)

This enchanting event is held on the 14th day of each lunar month in Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Thousands of lanterns light up the streets, creating a magical atmosphere. Plan your visit around this event for an unforgettable experience.

How to get to Quang Nam ?

Reaching Quang Nam is convenient, thanks to its well-connected location near major transport hubs. You can fly there, take the train, take the bus, or opt for private transportation.

By plane

The nearest airport to Quang Nam is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), located about 30-45 minutes from Hoi An and other parts of Quang Nam. Da Nang is a major airport in central Vietnam with regular domestic flights from cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang, as well as international flights from countries like Thailand, South Korea, and Singapore.

From the airport: Once you land in Da Nang, you can easily book a taxi or a private transfer to Hoi An, Tam Ky, or other Quang Nam destinations. Shuttle buses and ride-hailing services are also available.

By train

Vietnam's rail network links the country's main cities. If you prefer a more leisurely experience and enjoy the scenery along the central coast, you can take a train to Tam Ky or Da Nang station. Although the train journey is slower than the plane, it offers panoramic views of mountains, rice paddies, and the sea.

For those who prefer a scenic route, taking the train is a fantastic option. The closest train station is in Tam Ky, Quang Nam’s capital, or in nearby Da Nang. The train ride from Danang to Quang Nam offers great views, especially as the train passes through the Hai Van Pass.

From the station: You can book a taxi, private car, or bus to reach Hoi An or other Quang Nam attractions.

By bus

Long-distance buses are an economical option for reaching Quang Nam from other parts of Vietnam. Direct buses connect Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major cities with Hoi An or Tam Ky, the provincial capital. However, journeys can be long, especially from the north or south of the country, so this option is better suited to travelers with more time on their hands.

Bus Terminals: In Da Nang, you can catch a local bus or taxi to your final destination in Quang Nam. You can also catch Bus 14 to reach Hoi An from Danang, which arrives every 15 minutes.

By private car

For a more convenient and personalized experience, consider booking a private car through a travel agency, such as Vietnam Original Travel. This option allows you to travel at your own pace, stop along the way for photos or sightseeing, and avoid the hassle of public transport. Private transfers are available from Da Nang, Hue, or even directly from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City.

Benefits: Traveling by private car is ideal for families, groups, or travelers looking for comfort. You can customize your journey, visit off-the-beaten-path attractions, and avoid crowded buses. This solution offers flexibility and comfort, with the possibility of making spontaneous stops to explore craft villages or admire picturesque landscapes along the way.

Getting around in Quang Nam

Once you’re in Quang Nam, getting around is easy with several options

By Bicycle or Motorbike

For short distances and to explore areas like Hoi An, bicycles are a great option. Many hotels offer free or low-cost rentals. For longer distances, you can rent a motorbike, a popular choice for travelers wanting to explore at their own pace.

By Taxi or Grab

Taxis are widely available, especially in tourist areas like Hoi An. You can also use the Grab app (Vietnam’s version of Uber) for ride-hailing services, which are generally affordable and reliable.

By Local Bus

Quang Nam has a local bus network, with routes connecting Hoi An, Tam Ky, and other key towns. Buses are a budget-friendly way to travel but may be less frequent.

By Private Car or Tour

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, book a private car or guided tour. Many travel agencies offer day tours or multi-day excursions, perfect for visiting sights like My Son Sanctuary or the Cham Islands.

What to see and do in Quang Nam ?

Visit Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An is undoubtedly Quang Nam's most iconic attraction, and for good reason. This ancient port city, once a major trading hub in Southeast Asia, has preserved much of its historic architecture. Stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional shophouses, visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore historic assembly halls like Fujian Assembly Hall.

Numerous temples and pagodas also dot the city, each telling a part of the Hoi An’s multicultural history. In addition to its architectural heritage, Hoi An is also renowned for its refined local cuisine, which can be enjoyed in the many traditional restaurants scattered around the city. You'll have the opportunity to sample local specialties such as “Cao Lau”, a noodle dish unique to Hoi An, or “Banh Vac”, also known as White Rose Dumplings. You can also join a foldable lantern-making class, or have clothes tailor-made in a day.

Discover the My Son sanctuary

Located about an hour's drive from Hoi An, the My Son sanctuary is another gem in Quang Nam province. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son Sanctuary is a cluster of ancient Champa temples set against a lush mountainous backdrop. Dating back to the 4th century, it’s a spiritual and cultural site dedicated to Hindu deities. With its ruined towers and temples, this site exudes a mystical atmosphere, nestled in the heart of a green valley surrounded by mountains. 

The temples of My Son, built in red brick, are true masterpieces of engineering, their construction is still a partial mystery to archaeologists due to the absence of visible mortar. Over the centuries, the site has been partly destroyed by war and erosion, but the remaining ruins still captivate visitors with their beauty and history.

You can also join a guided tour to learn about the history of the Champa civilization or enjoy a traditional Cham dance performance at the site.

Visit the craft villages

Quang Nam is home to several traditional craft villages where artisans continue to practice age-old techniques. These villages offer visitors a chance to see and even participate in the making of unique handicrafts.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Famous for its handmade ceramics, you can see potters at work and even try making your own pottery.

Tra Que Vegetable Village: Just outside of Hoi An, this village is known for its organic farming techniques. Take a tour to learn about traditional agriculture and participate in a cooking class using fresh ingredients from the garden.

Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Located across the Thu Bon River, this village is renowned for its wood carving and boat-building traditions.

Enjoy the beaches

Quang Nam is not just about its rich historical heritage; the province is also lined with idyllic beaches that are attracting more and more visitors in search of relaxation. Among the most popular, An Bang Beach, just a few kilometers from Hoi An, is a stretch of fine sand lined with coconut palms, offering a breathtaking view of the ocean. It's the ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing, with its many cafés and beach bars, where you can enjoy a cocktail while admiring the sunset.

The larger and equally popular Cua Dai beach is perfect for those seeking a livelier setting, with fresh seafood restaurants all along the coast. Further south, Tam Thanh Beach offers a more peaceful and authentic atmosphere. You can explore the traditional fishing village, where the locals perpetuate their ancestral fishing techniques, or take a walk in the Tam Thanh Mural village, where over 100 colorful frescoes decorate the walls, making the visit even more charming.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Experience the lush beauty of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, also known as Cam Thanh Village, located just outside of Hoi An. This eco-tourism destination is famous for its unique water coconut groves and traditional basket boat rides.

Hop on a bamboo basket boat for a fun and eco-friendly adventure, where local boatmen will show you traditional fishing techniques. This unique experience offers the chance to glide through the peaceful waterways lined with swaying coconut palms. You can also try your hand at catching crabs using local methods.

Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)

For a tropical escape, head to the Cham Islands, a group of eight islands located off the coast of Hoi An. The islands are known for their clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere.

Explore Hon Lao, the largest island, where you can visit the local fishing village and enjoy pristine beaches like Bai Chong and Bai Xep.

Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, allowing you to explore the colorful underwater world. You can also hike through the island’s lush interior or relax by the beach.

Exploring mountains and rivers

In addition to its beaches, Quang Nam is also a land of mountains and rivers, offering an exceptional playground for adventure and nature lovers. The Thu Bon River, which flows through Hoi An and other parts of the province, is perfect for a boat cruise. These excursions allow you to discover rural Vietnamese life, with its sprawling rice paddies, water buffalo, and picturesque villages.

The surrounding mountains, notably those of the Truong Son range, offer hiking trails for adrenaline-seeking travelers. Trekkers will discover dense tropical forests, hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramas. These regions are also home to ethnic minorities such as the Co Tu, whose villages are accessible on organized tours. You'll have the opportunity to discover their traditional crafts, folk dances, and way of life based on harmony with nature.

Quang Nam is a must-see destination for those wishing to discover the authentic Vietnam, a blend of history, culture, and varied natural landscapes. Whether you're drawn to tranquil beaches, ancient temples, or artisanal villages, this province offers a rich and diverse experience. Plan your visit taking into account weather conditions, local events, and transport options to make the most of this central Vietnamese treasure. 

The best things to do in Quang Nam that you must not miss:

=> Ideal Hoi An 3 Day Itinerary

=> Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide