Nha Trang Travel Guide for South Korean Tourists: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip 

Nha Trang is a popular beach destination among South Korean travellers, thanks to flights connecting to Cam Ranh International Airport, its warm climate, long coastline and wide range of dining, shopping, spa and sightseeing options within the city. Beyond the resorts in Bai Dai and Cam Ranh, central Nha Trang is well suited to visitors who want to combine a beach holiday with city exploration without travelling long distances each day. 

1. Before travelling to Nha Trang from South Korea 

Flights from South Korea to Nha Trang

International visitors travelling to Nha Trang by air arrive at Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR). The airport is located south of Nha Trang, outside the city centre.

Flights between South Korea and Cam Ranh operate from major South Korean cities, with Seoul/Incheon and Busan among the most common departure points. A direct flight from Seoul to Nha Trang (Cam Ranh Airport) typically takes around 5–6 hours. Some routes and flight frequencies may vary depending on the season and airline schedules.

After arriving at Cam Ranh Airport, the drive to central Nha Trang usually takes around 40–50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the location of your hotel.

Do South Korean travellers need a visa to visit Vietnam? 

According to the current information from Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citizens of the Republic of Korea are eligible for unilateral visa exemption when entering Vietnam for stays of up to 45 days, provided they meet the entry requirements. 

The policy is in effect from 15 March 2025 to 14 March 2028. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and travellers must not fall under any categories of individuals prohibited from entering Vietnam under applicable regulations. 

Things to prepare before your trip

A few simple preparations can make travelling around Nha Trang more convenient:

• Vietnamese SIM or eSIM: useful for accessing maps and ride-hailing apps 
• Grab: It is recommended to install the app before your trip and link a payment method if needed.
• VND: Prepare some cash for markets, small eateries and direct payments.
• International payment cards: suitable for use at hotels, shopping centres and many restaurants.
• Travel insurance: should cover medical expenses, flights and baggage.
• Sunscreen and lightweight clothing: essential for outdoor sightseeing and beach days.
• Hotel information in Vietnamese: useful when taking a taxi or asking for directions.

2. Getting from Cam Ranh Airport to Nha Trang

The distance from the airport to Nha Trang city centre makes it important to arrange transport before landing, especially for families, large groups or travellers arriving on evening flights.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Taxis and ride-hailing services are suitable if you want to travel directly from the airport to your accommodation without changing transport. This is a convenient option for families, travellers with lots of luggage or those arriving in Nha Trang in the evening.

For ride-hailing services, check the designated pick-up point in the app beforehand. If taking a traditional taxi, confirm the fare or how it is calculated before departure.

Bus 

Buses are suitable for solo travellers with little luggage who want to save money. Keep in mind that buses usually follow fixed routes with designated stops rather than dropping passengers off directly at each hotel. You should check the nearest stop in advance and allow for the additional distance from the bus stop to your accommodation.

Pre-booked airport transfer or private car hire

Pre-booked airport transfers are suitable for families, large groups, travellers with lots of luggage or those arriving on late flights. The vehicle usually picks you up directly at the airport and takes you to your accommodation, making the journey easier after your flight. If travelling in a group, choose a vehicle that can accommodate everyone and their luggage to avoid booking additional transport.

3. Best time to visit Nha Trang 

Nha Trang has a tropical coastal climate and welcomes visitors year-round, but weather conditions directly affect activities such as swimming, island excursions and scuba diving. 

• Dry season – January to August: This is generally a more favourable period for beach holidays, with plenty of sunny days, low rainfall and relatively calm sea conditions. February to May is particularly suitable for outdoor activities, swimming and island excursions.
• Transitional season – September: The weather remains fairly warm, but rainfall begins to increase. Visitors can still enjoy outdoor activities, although it is advisable to keep travel plans flexible and check the weather forecast before heading to the beach or taking island excursions.
• Rainy season – October to December: Rainfall becomes more frequent, particularly in October and November. The sea can be rougher on some days, affecting boat schedules, island tours and water activities. However, rain does not usually continue throughout the entire trip.

If you prefer stable weather for swimming and island excursions, February to May is generally the easiest period to plan a trip. The summer months from June to August are also suitable for beach holidays, although visitor numbers may be higher during public holidays and school summer breaks.

4. Must-try experiences in Nha Trang

Nha Trang offers a variety of experiences, from beach activities and island excursions to cultural sightseeing and relaxation. To save travel time, it is best to group attractions by area rather than trying to visit too many places in one day. The distances below are calculated from central Nha Trang, around 2/4 Square and Tran Phu Street.

Quick overview of attractions: 

Explore the beaches and islands of Nha Trang Bay

Nha Trang Bay offers many of the city’s signature activities, including island hopping, snorkelling, scuba diving and sightseeing by boat or speedboat.

Some popular experiences include:

• visit multiple islands in one day;
• snorkelling in areas with coral reefs;
• scuba diving with professional tour operators;
• take a boat or speedboat trip around the bay;
• swim and relax on the islands.

Hon Mun Island is one of the best-known spots for scuba diving and exploring underwater ecosystems. Most island excursions depart from the port area in the southern part of the city. The distance from central Nha Trang to Nha Trang Tourist Port is approximately 6 km., visitors then continue by boat or speedboat to the islands.

Ponagar Tower

Ponagar Cham Towers are located north of central Nha Trang, approximately 4 km from the city centre. It is one of the most prominent Cham cultural landmarks in Khanh Hoa and remains an active place of worship today.

The complex consists of several ancient brick towers on a hill near the mouth of the Cai River. In addition to admiring Cham architecture, visitors can enjoy elevated views of the river and the city.

Long Son Pagoda

Long Son Pagoda is located near Nha Trang Railway Station, approximately 2–3 km from the city centreIt is one of the most famous pagodas in Nha Trang and is known for its statue of white Buddha statue located on the hill behind the main temple grounds.

Visitors can climb the steps to see the white Buddha statue, the reclining Buddha and enjoy views over part of the city. When visiting, dress modestly, remain quiet in worship areas and avoid disturbing ongoing religious activities.

Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography

The Institute of Oceanography is located in the Cau Da area in the southern part of the city, approximately 5 km from central Nha Trang.

This is a suitable attraction for visitors who want to learn more about marine life and Vietnam’s marine ecosystems. The exhibition area features tanks with live marine animals, preserved specimens and a wide range of information related to marine research.

This attraction is particularly suitable for:

• Families with children;
• Visitors interested in marine life;
• Visitors looking for indoor activities on rainy days;
• Visitors who want to learn more about marine life before or after an island excursion.

Hon Tre Island and VinWonders Nha Trang

Hon Tre is the largest island in Nha Trang Bay, located off the eastern coast of the city and home to VinWonders Nha Trang. From central Nha Trang, visitors usually take approximately Approximately 5 km to the Vinpearl Harbour cable car station, then continue to the island.

VinWonders Nha Trang is a large-scale entertainment complex featuring a variety of attractions, including:

• Sea-crossing cable car;
• Water park;
• Thrill rides;
• Family and children's entertainment areas;
• Aquarium and themed attractions;
• Live performances, including the Tata Show.

This is a suitable choice for families with children, groups of friends or visitors who want to spend an entire day enjoying entertainment activities rather than visiting several smaller attractions around the city.

Mud baths, spa and massage

Mud bathing is one of Nha Trang’s signature experiences. It is also a suitable option on rainy days or when you want to take a break from outdoor activities. If you choose a massage or spa service outside your hotel, check the prices and available treatments before your session begins.

5. What to eat in Nha Trang?

Nha Trang’s cuisine offers a rich variety of fresh seafood, Khanh Hoa specialities and familiar Vietnamese dishes. South Korean visitors can therefore enjoy exploring local food, with plenty of dishes that suit their tastes, rather than limiting themselves to Korean restaurants. 

Fish cake noodle soup (bún chả cá): Bún chả cá is one of Nha Trang’s popular local dishes, typically made with rice vermicelli, fish cakes, a light broth and fresh vegetables. Some places also serve it with pieces of fish or different varieties of fish cakes.

Ninh Hoa grilled pork sausage (nem nướng Ninh Hòa): Nem nướng Ninh Hòa is typically served as a DIY rice paper roll with grilled pork, rice paper, fresh herbs and dipping sauce. What makes this dish special is the combination of different ingredients in each roll, creating a balance of savoury grilled pork, fresh vegetables and flavourful dipping sauce. 

Bánh căn (Vietnamese mini rice pancakes): Bánh căn are small rice flour pancakes cooked in special moulds, typically topped with eggs, shrimp, squid or other seafood, depending on the eatery.

Nha Trang seafood: Thanks to its coastal location, Nha Trang offers a wide variety of seafood, including shrimp, crabs, blue swimming crabs, squid, sea snails, shellfish and sea fish. Seafood can be prepared in various ways, such as steaming, grilling, stir-frying, roasting or cooking in hot pot.

6. Where to stay in Nha Trang?

The city centre is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy a variety of activities during their trip. From here, guests can easily access the beach, restaurants, cafés, shops, markets and many of the city's attractions without travelling long distances each day.

TUI BLUE Nha Trang – A city centre accommodation option

TUI BLUE Nha Trang located at 18 Tran Hung Dao Street, Nha Trang Ward, Khanh Hoa Province is a comfortable 5-star hotel in the heart of the city. The hotel features 315 sea-view and mountain-view rooms, along with an outdoor swimming pool, a children's play area, the BLUEf!t Gym and on-site dining options.

One advantage of the hotel is its proximity to many attractions. The distances and travel times below are approximate.

7. Things Korean visitors should know when traveling to Nha Trang 

Do South Korean visitors need a visa to travel to Nha Trang?

South Korean citizens are currently granted visa-free entry to Vietnam for a maximum permitted duration of stay. 45 ngày, if entry requirements are met. The current policy remains in effect until the end of 14/3/2028.

How long does it take to get from Cam Ranh Airport to Nha Trang?

The travel time by car to the city center is usually around 40–50 minutes. 

Should you stay in central Nha Trang or in Cam Ranh?

Choose Nha Trang city center if you want easy access to restaurants, shopping, attractions, and the beach.

Choose Cam Ranh/Bai Dai if the main goal is to spend most of your time at the resort and the beach, while only occasionally heading into the city center.

Can I use KRW for payments in Nha Trang?

Visitors should use Vietnamese Dong (VND) or international cards for daily payments. South Korean Won (KRW) is not widely accepted at shops and service establishments in Nha Trang. 

Are credit cards accepted?

Hotels, shopping centers, and many restaurants accept international cards. For markets, small eateries, and certain local services, it is advisable to have Vietnamese dong (VND) on hand.

Are there any Korean restaurants in Nha Trang?

Yes. Since Nha Trang receives a large number of visitors from South Korea, many services and restaurants catering to this market have emerged in the city center. 

Is it possible to communicate in Korean in Nha Trang?

Some restaurants, shops, and services that cater to many Korean customers feature signs or information in Korean, but this is not the case throughout the entire city. 

When is the best time to visit Nha Trang?

If the focus is on the sea and outdoor activities, duration from January to August more favorable weather conditions. The rainy season is mainly concentrated from September to December, so the schedule during this period should include more indoor activities.