A Tourist Survival Guide In Nha Trang

Nha Trang city is the one lustrous gem of Vietnam with its palm-lined beaches, crystal-clear water and soft white sand. If your wanderlust is itching for a new experience to enjoy the salty breezes and pristine beaches, Nha Trang is the place to be. Here is what you need – Travel tips in Nha Trang.

Best time to visit Nha Trang

As a result of its tropical grassland and aquatic influence, Nha Trang’s climate consists of only two seasons: dry and rainy. While the dry season usually last for six months (January to June), the rain starts pouring as soon as July and continue to December. Usually, July and August are two of the hottest months in Nha Trang.

So, if you are planning a summer trip in July or August, make sure to pack hats, sunscreen and sunglasses. In addition, bring an umbrella or light raincoat along, with chances of downpours and tropical storms.

Knowing all of this, the best time to visit Nha Trang is between February and April, when rainfall is still low and the temperature is kept mild and pleasant at around 26 degree Celsius. It is also great for a visit to the coral reefs at Mun Island, South Reef or Small Hill.

How to get to Nha Trang?

If you plan to depart from Saigon, which is more than 400 kilometers away from Nha Trang, you will spend between 9 and 11 hours on the bus or train. A one-way ticket to Nha Trang via buses can range around 20 USD while a train ride can set you back as much as 30 USD.

Another option which is the fastest is by airplane. You can opt for a direct flight within one hour for 25 to 50 USD depending on which airline you choose. Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific and Vietjet are the most popular airlines that offer flights to and from Nha Trang.

If you choose to book a flight, you should prepare that Cam Ranh airport is far away from the city. As Cam Ranh Airport is 30 kilometers South of Nha Trang, you will need to take the bus or a taxi to the city. It might cost 20 USD if you go by taxi. Shuttle buses only cost 10 USD and they will drop you off at your hotel. 

How to get around Nha Trang?

Nha Trang offers plenty of options for you to choose to wander around this beautiful city. 

Taxi

Firstly, there are taxis with reliable services. Taxis companies supply the large number of drivers, it means you can easily catch a taxi and don’t need to wait for a long time.  As a plus, they are English-speaking drivers which is easier for you to communicate and get to your destination.

Choosing taxi will help you avoid the hot weather and fits with a group of friends. If you travel alone, prepare for yourself a note with address written down, a google map app and a suitable price to deal with the driver. You can ask the hotel’s receptionist for an ideal price to reach your destination.

Bus

No matter how pedestrian friendly Nha Trang is, there would be times when you just don’t want to walk under the burning sun. That is why buses, most are equipped with air-conditioning, comfortable seating and cheap fare, are the wonderful option. It will cost you less than $1 USD per trip.

Taking a bus in Nha Trang is not without difficulties. The majority of signs are still only available in Vietnamese as well as the drivers who can only speak Vietnamese. This is why having a google map and a translation app beforehand is a must. Be sure to keep checking your belongings as pickpockets are common in Nha Trang.

Additionally, buses can be really crowded during rush hours. Make sure you planned your schedule and will not miss any bus. The routine is frequent but you cannot take buses after 7pm-7:30pm.

Xe Om (Motorcycle taxi)

Though this is an amazing way to take in the scenery, sitting behind a stranger while weaving your way through traffic can be quite daunting. However, if you’re up for it, here is what you should know.

You can hire a driver straight from the streets. Simply walk towards, tell where you need to go, preferably with a map or translated messages and negotiate a price. The wonderful thing about ‘xe om’ is feeling like a local. However, there is the risk of being ripped off and the route or length of the journey is completely up to the drivers. So make sure to check your map, and be ready to walk if the price is too steep. You can ask the receptionists at your stay to know the average price that you need to pay for each routine. 

Grab bike/ Grab car

The better alternative for this is using the ride-hailing app such as Grab. In Southeast Asia, it is the most popular and reliable one that you should use. This transportation app is similar to Uber.  you need to buy a sim card with data so you can book via app and add in your contact. Consider to book a Grab during rush hours due to the surge price and slow pick-up.

Renting a bike

If you are the adventurous souls, renting a bike or motorbike is an option for you to discover Nha Trang at your own footsteps. Getting a bike means you need a well-planned itinerary or finding a local guide so you will not waste your time on getting lost. And for every time you rent a bike, you will be required to pay a deposit and present your ID, passport, etc. As such, be careful of scams and obey traffic regulations. Depending on the type of motorbike, prices can be from $7 USD per day.