Nestled between two extensive white-sand beaches on the north and south ends of this seaside city, Dong Hoi is an unspoiled hideaway filled with serene vibes and few tourists. Spend easygoing days and relaxing nights at this wonderful port town that promises lots to see and do. Best of all you can explore this engaging capital city of the Quảng Bình Province at your own pace and with the aid of friendly locals. Though devasted during the Vietnam War, Dong Hoi has made a comeback, and it’s the perfect beachside getaway. To enjoy this town to the fullest you must read on to see the best things to do in Dong Hoi, Vietnam.
1. Delve into a fabulous cave tour of Paradise and Dark Caves (from USD 73.0)
The number one go-to attraction in Dong Hoi is the UNESCO-awarded caves of mesmerizing Phong Nha National Park. The perfect way to explore these fantastic sights is on an exciting cave tour. Check out the top caves of Paradise and Dark Caves where you’ll discover a heart-pumping zipline experience over a turquoise-hued river. Enjoy an enticing hike leading to a mud bath that usually inspires a fun mud fight! After the mud antics, you can rinse off with a swim in Dark Cave. This is a must-do adventure for nature lovers looking for additional excitement.
TOUR TO THE CAVES - Paradise & Dark caves from Dong hoi city
Duration: 10 hours
2. See Dong Hoi from another perspective: on a bicycle tour (from USD 13.0)
Get an intimate view of this country on a fabulous bicycle tour. Experience the city and its surrounding area the way locals do- on a bicycle. Participate in a fun-filled bike expedition that highlights a myriad of Vietnam’s treasures: a pastoral Bao Ninh fishing island, intriguing local culture, ancient sites, interesting wildlife, and so much more. With the benefit of an expert guide’s knowledge, a meandering pace is set and the network of small roads around Dong Hoi can easily lead you off-the-beaten-path and into enticing sights. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Dong Hoi bicycle tour
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
3. Relish seaside splendor at Nhat Le Beach
You can’t resist tossing off your shoes and walking on the powdery-soft white sands of Nhat Le Beach or splashing around in the clean ocean water. Comprised of 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) of lovely shoreline, this beach - that’s home to the popular World Heritage Site Phong Nha National Park - is a haven for beachcombers seeking fun in the sun or simple relaxation. When hunger strikes you can indulge in a limitless array of fresh seafood eateries populating this inviting beach locale.
Nhat Le Beach
Address: Quảng Bình Province, Dong Hoi, Vietnam
4. Witness the haunting beauty of Tam Toa Church
Erected during the late 19th century, Tam Toa Church is an ornate and notable Catholic church on Dong Hoi’s eco-rich landscape. Mostly destroyed during the Vietnam War, the only feature left of this war relic is the eery ruined facade. Possessing only the handsome steeple and a tiny portion of a wall of its bombed remnants, many tourists are drawn to Tam Toa Church to contemplate its former grandeur and Vietnam’s war-torn past.
Tam Toa Church
Address: Ha Huy Tap, Hai Dinh, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, Vietnam
Website: Tam Toa Church
5. Gaze at the ancient ruins of Citadel Dong Hoi
Dominating the cityscape is Citadel Dong Hoi. A part of Vietnam’s beguiling and complex history, Citadel Dong Hoi is a former fortress that once protected the kings and the capital of the Nguyen dynasty. Residing in the heart of Dong Hoi and situated along the Nhat Le river, this landmark structure is a fortification sight built of tall, attractive red-brick walls and stone gates. There are two entrances to the citadel but opt for the East Gate near the river’s edge so you can take an enjoyable stroll along the moat and drink in the wonderful landscape.
Citadel Dong Hoi
Address: Ha Huy Tap, Hai Dinh, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, Vietnam
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Shop the catch-of-the-day at Dong Hoi Fish Market
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Being a port city, Dong Hoi offers a prime opportunity to enjoy local, fresh fish. You can find top-notch fare at Dong Moi Fish Market. Plenty of freshwater fish from basa, a kind of catfish, to tilapia, can be purchased at this expansive vibrant market. Be aware some locals advise tourists against consuming items like shellfish because of the risk of hepatitis, so do heed their warnings. If you want to nab the best, arrive early in the morning.
Dong Hoi Fish Market
Address: Mother During, Hai Dinh, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, Vietnam
Website: Dong Hoi Fish Market
Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)
7. Marvel at the dazzling Dai Giac Temple
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Dai Giac Temple boasts the largest and most exquisite temple in Dong Hoi city. Comprised of various gorgeous sights like the blue-hued, ornate Buddhist Tower, Dai Giac Temple is a solemn and spiritual site that’s a big draw for travelers. Many devout Buddhists visit and worship at the temple. This sacred spot also showcases an imposing, polished marble Buddha statue standing 29 feet (9 meters) high and weighing 40 tons (36.2 metric tons) - making the structure one of the biggest marble Amitabha-style statues in Vietnam!
Dai Giac Temple
Address: Le Loi, Hai Dinh, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, Vietnam
8. Watch a blockbuster flick at Lotte Cinema - Dong Hoi
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
I - ĐỨA BÉ | KHỞI CHIẾU 07.05.2021 Đơn thân làm chẳng lên non , ba thân chụm lại làm nên gia...
Posted by Lotte Cinema Đồng Hới on Tuesday, May 4, 2021
The first cinema complex in the Quảng Bình province, Lotte Cinema offers quality movie entertainment at affordable prices. Housed in the lovely riverfront area that includes the trendy Vincom Plaza, Lotte Cinema is the ideal place to enjoy a low-key night out. Watch big-budget Hollywood action flicks along with top Asian-cinema offerings. Don’t forget to take advantage of the full array of tasty refreshments available to heighten your movie-going experience.
Lotte Cinema - Dong Hoi
Address: Vincom Plaza, Floor 3, Trade Center, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh 51000, Vietnam
Website: Lotte Cinema - Dong Hoi
9. Spend a carefree day at Everland Quảng Bình
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Everlandquangbinh on Tuesday, December 1, 2020
A terrific balance of handsome bamboo architecture and lush green nature, Everland Quảng Bình is sure to create a lasting impression on the entire family. This is the first theme and amusement park in the region providing exciting rides, fun arcade games, a lively night market, a myriad of shopping options, and delectable dining choices all in one place. Tourists and locals are easily lured to this one-of-a-kind destination packed with exhilarating diversions.
Everland Quảng Bình
Address: 01 Nguyen Van Troi, Hai Dinh, Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, Vietnam
Website: Everland Quảng Bình
10. Find rare rocky beauty at Bai Da Nhay
Referred to as Jumping Rock Beach, captivating Bai Da Nhay offers one of the most eye-popping surf sides in Quảng Binh Province. As a result of erosion, large rock formations jut out from the clear blue sea. Each structure has a creative shape and the rise and fall of the tides alter the color of the rocks making Bai Da Nhay’s unique landscape an ideal backdrop for taking attractive photos that you’ll be eager to post on Instagram. This beach is also great for unwinding and simply marveling at Mother Nature’s beauty.
Bai Da Nhay
Address: Dong Hoi, Vietnam
Dong Hoi fun awaits
Check out the local bustling fish market, stroll the pretty riverfront, explore fabulous Buddhist temples, and so much more when you visit Dong Hoi. This seaside town is a pleasant mix of wonder and enchantment that makes your stay in north-central Vietnam an unforgettable adventure.
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