Nghe An 3-Day Itinerary: Coastal Bliss and Cultural Wonders

A Perfect Blend of Coast, Culture, and Nature

Nghe An, Vietnam’s largest province at 16,470 km², is a captivating North-Central destination, 290 km south of Hanoi. Its vibrant hub, Vinh Ward, and coastal Cua Lo Ward welcome over 70,000 visitors annually to enjoy pristine beaches, UNESCO-recognized cultural sites like Kim Lien Village, and the biodiverse Pu Mat National Park. With a 3-day holiday costing $50–$200 (1,250,000–5,000,000 VND) per person, Nghe An offers affordable adventures for beach lovers, history enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers.

Nghe An’s tropical climate (dry season: November–April, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 24–36°C or 75.2–96.8°F) supports year-round exploration, enhanced by sustainable practices like electric vehicle tours, community-led homestays, and regulated fishing. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours ensure an immersive, responsible experience. Book via links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for a seamless journey.

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Vietnam’s administrative reform reorganized Nghe An’s districts into wards and communes. Vinh City is now Vinh Ward, and Cua Lo Town is Cua Lo Ward. Use “Vinh Ward, Nghe An” or “Cua Lo Ward, Nghe An” for precise navigation.

With over 17 years of expertise in sustainable tourism across Southeast Asia, Legend Travel Group designs eco-conscious tours to Nghe An, blending cultural immersion with environmental care. Our tours use electric vehicles, support local communities, and feature English-speaking guides sharing insights into Nghe An’s heritage and ecosystems. Aligning with Vietnam’s green tourism goals, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our eco-tours via links on this page for a responsible adventure.

This 3-day itinerary balances relaxation, culture, and nature, showcasing Nghe An’s diverse attractions with sustainable practices.

Day 1: Arrival and Coastal Bliss at Cua Lo Beach

• Morning: Depart Hanoi (290 km, 5–6 hours) or Ho Chi Minh City (950 km, 2–30 hours) to Cua Lo Ward:

  • From Hanoi:

    • Train: $20–$60 (500,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip, 5.5–7 hours to Vinh Station, then taxi to Cua Lo ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND).

    • Bus: $16–$30 (400,000–750,000 VND) round-trip, 6–7 hours to Vinh, then taxi ($5–$7).

    • Private Car: $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND) round-trip, 5–6 hours direct.

  • From Ho Chi Minh City:

    • Flight: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND) round-trip, 2 hours to Vinh Airport (unavailable July–December 2025), then taxi to Cua Lo ($10–$12 or 250,000–300,000 VND).

    • Train: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND) round-trip, 26–30 hours to Vinh, then taxi ($5–$7).

  • Arrival in Cua Lo: Check into an eco-friendly homestay ($15–$30/night or 375,000–750,000 VND). Enjoy lunch at Bình Minh Street ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND), savoring cháo ngao (clam porridge).

• Afternoon: Swim at Cua Lo Beach ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND entry), known for its clear waters and fine sands. Relax under casuarina trees or capture sunset photos.

• Evening: Dine on mực trộn tép bưởi (squid with pomelo, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND) at Cua Lo Night Market. Join a squid fishing tour ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND) for a unique coastal experience.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use reusable towels; support vendors with biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Book through Legend Travel Group’s Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95) for transport and activities.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Vinh Ward

• Morning: Travel 16 km to Vinh Ward (taxi, $5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND, 45 minutes). Visit Kim Lien Village ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND), a UNESCO-recognized site honoring Ho Chi Minh’s birthplace, featuring his childhood home and museum. Explore at 8:00 AM to avoid crowds.

• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Chợ Vinh market, tasting cháo lươn (eel porridge, $1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND). Visit Cuong Temple for a serene meditation session (free, donations $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at 2:00 PM, learning about local legends.

• Evening: Return to Cua Lo for dinner at a beachside eatery, trying cua luộc (steamed crabs, $3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND). Overnight in a homestay.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or cycle in Vinh to reduce emissions; support local artisans with brocade purchases ($2–$7 or 50,000–175,000 VND).

• Tip: Included in Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100).

Day 3: Nature Adventure in Pu Mat National Park

• Morning: Depart early for Pu Mat National Park (130 km from Vinh, $30–$40 or 750,000–1,000,000 VND by private car, 2.5–3 hours). Trek jungle trails ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) at 7:00 AM, spotting rare saola and ancient trees. Visit Khe Kem Waterfall ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND) for stunning views.

• Afternoon: Enjoy a local lunch of cơm lam (bamboo rice, $1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) in a Thai village. Engage with Dan Lai artisans, learning brocade weaving ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Return to Vinh Ward by 3:00 PM.

• Evening: Depart for Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, or extend your stay in Vinh for local dining ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Stay on trails to protect ecosystems; use eco-friendly homestays.

• Tip: Included in Pu Mat Nature Tour ($80–$120).

• November–April (Dry Season, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F): Ideal for beach activities, trekking, and cultural visits, with clear skies and moderate crowds (150–400 daily visitors). Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 24–36°C or 75.2–96.8°F): Perfect for lush greenery and fewer crowds (100–250 daily visitors), but trails may be slippery. Last-minute bookings often available.

• Festival Seasons: Lunar New Year (January/February) for Cau Ngu Festival in Cua Lo, with high crowds (600+ visitors); spring (February–March) for cultural events. Avoid Tet for quieter visits.

• Timing Tip: Start days early (7:00–10:00 AM) for cool weather; avoid outdoor activities after 4:30 PM for safety.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire, sturdy hiking boots, swimsuit; waterproof jacket ($4–$8 or 100,000–200,000 VND) for rainy season; modest attire for temples.

• Beach & Outdoor Gear: Reusable towel, SPF 50+ sunscreen, insect repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), hat.

• Dining Gear: Reusable chopsticks, cloth napkin ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($8–$15 or 200,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable water bottle, tote for souvenirs ($1–$4 or 25,000–100,000 VND); biodegradable wipes.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

Activity Costs

• Cua Lo Beach Entry: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Kim Lien Village: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Pu Mat Trekking/Waterfall: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).

• Seafood Dining: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Cultural Visits: $0.50–$10 (12,500–250,000 VND).

• Guided Tours: $25–$35 (625,000–875,000 VND).

• Homestay: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

Transport Costs (Round-Trip)

• From Hanoi: Train: $20–$60; Bus: $16–$30; Private Car: $80–$100; Xanh SM Taxi: $140–$180.

• From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight: $60–$120 + taxi ($10–$12); Train: $50–$100; Bus: $50–$80.

• From Vinh to Cua Lo/Pu Mat: Taxi: $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND).

Total 3-Day Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $50–$80 (bus, homestay, street food).

• Mid-range: $100–$150 (train, guided tours, homestay).

• Luxury: $150–$200 (private car, premium dining, guided tours).

• Tip: Carry cash (cards rarely accepted); budget for activities ($0.50–$35) and transport ($16–$180).

• Timing: Start activities at 7:00–10:00 AM for cool weather; November–April for dry conditions. Weekdays for fewer crowds (100–250 vs. 150–400 on weekends).

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead; book homestays and activities on-site.

• Sustainability: Use reusable bottles; support vendors with biodegradable packaging. Stay on trails in Pu Mat to protect ecosystems.

• Navigation: Save “Cua Lo Ward, Nghe An” and “Pu Mat National Park, Tra Lan Commune” in offline maps (Maps.me).

• Safety: Swim in designated areas; wear sturdy shoes for Pu Mat trails. Secure valuables in crowded markets.

• Weather: Dry season for outdoor activities; rainy season needs rain gear ($4–$8 or 100,000–200,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào”; dress modestly at Kim Lien Village and temples.

Our eco-friendly tours cover this 3-day itinerary:

• Nghe An Coastal & Cultural Tour ($150–$200/person, 3 days): Includes Cua Lo Beach, Kim Lien Village, Cuong Temple, homestay ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, eco-transport.

• Nghe An Nature & Culture Adventure ($200–$250/person, 3 days): Adds Pu Mat trekking, Khe Kem Waterfall, Thai village visit. Includes meals, guide.

• North-Central Vietnam Explorer ($350–$500/person, 4 days): Combines Nghe An with Thanh Hoa and Ha Tinh, eco-stays. Includes meals, eco-transports.

• Prices include guides, eco-transports, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Nghe An Province, 290 km from Hanoi, offers a perfect 3-day holiday blending Cua Lo Beach’s coastal charm, Kim Lien Village’s cultural depth, and Pu Mat National Park’s natural splendor, drawing thousands yearly. Day 1: Relax on Cua Lo Beach (free entry), swim in clear waters, and savor cháo lươn ($1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND) at beachside eateries. Day 2: Explore Kim Lien Village, Ho Chi Minh’s birthplace ($1 entry, 25,000 VND), and join the vibrant Cau Ngu Festival (February/March, if timed right). Day 3: Trek Pu Mat National Park’s lush trails ($2–$3 entry, 50,000–75,000 VND), home to rare saola and gibbons. Supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly homestays ($10–$30/night, 250,000–750,000 VND) and electric transport ($5–$10, 125,000–250,000 VND), Legend Travel Group’s Nghe An Tours ensure an immersive, eco-conscious Nghe An Travel experience, blending these adventures with visits to Tham Om Cave and culinary delights like bánh mướt ($0.50–$2, 12,500–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Nghe An’s coastal, cultural, and natural treasures? Reserve your sustainable 3-day tour with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Nghe An Holiday Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, vietnamoriginal-travel.com, originvietnam.com