Nha Trang is a friendly coastal town with white, palm-lined sandy beaches and clear waters, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving. Nha Trang is also famous for its excellent seafood. There are a large number of restaurants, cafés and discos in the city. One of the main attractions is the French-gothic style cathedral of Nha Trang and the temple of Chua Long Tu, built on a hilltop with a white statue of Buddha measuring nearly 15 m high. From the bay you can see the strange rock formations referred to by the locals as "Buddha's footprints". A boat trip to the islands just off the coast is highly recommended. A trip slightly North of the Cho river provides an excellent view of the Cham Towers of Po Nagar and Po Klong, which stand on a small mountain. Here, visitors can see the remains of the prayer hall and the Thap Chinh tower measuring around 20m high, which dates from the 9th century.

Tips for excursions

NHA TRANG AND PONAGAR

Drive from the landing stage to Ponagar. Visits to the tower of Ponagar Cham, the Hong Chong Promontory and the Long Son Pagoda. The return trip takes in the centre of Nha Trang with its tourist sights.

NHA TRANG COUNTRYSIDE

By coach through Nha Trang into the rural surroundings. Visits to a traditional Vietnamese kindergarten (Family Home Industry) and a production site for typical sleeping mats. Visit to the farmers' market with a break in a cafe where refreshments will be served. The drive through the countryside reveals a picture of the region with its paddy fields, water buffalo and green valleys.