Dong Hoi

Dong Hoi is the capital city of Quang Binh Province in Central Vietnam. It's a city that boasts a harmonious blend of rich historical heritage, natural beauty, and distinctive local culture. Furthermore, this city captivates visitors with its friendly atmosphere, and diverse and exquisite cuisine, especially its fresh seafood.

Dong Hoi - The capital city of Quang Binh Province

History of Dong Hoi

Dong Hoi has a rich history that's both interesting and complex. It started as part of the Champa Kingdom, an ancient empire, which influenced the city's early culture. Later, in the 17th century, it became an important place under the Nguyen Dynasty. Because it's right on the coast, this was key for defense and trading. One of the big things built then was the Dong Hoi Citadel, showing how important the city was.

But the most changing time for Dong Hoi was during the Vietnam War in the 20th century. The city was near the line that divided North and South Vietnam, so it saw a lot of fighting and bombing. This caused a lot of damage, and you can still see these effects today, like the ruined Tam Toa Church. This hard time shaped the capital of Quang Binh, making it a place known for its strength and ability to overcome hard times.

Post-war, this location has impressively rebuilt and transformed itself. Today, it's not only a gateway to the natural wonders of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park but also a living testament to resilience and peace. This blend of historic depth and contemporary revival makes Dong Hoi a unique destination, offering insights into Vietnam's complex history alongside its natural and cultural beauty.

Attractions of Dong Hoi

Places to visit

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a wonderland of massive caves, underground rivers, and stunning karst landscapes. The park is home to the famous Son Doong Cave, the largest in the world, and Paradise Cave, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Adventure seekers can enjoy cave trekking and kayaking in the park's rivers.

The majestic beauty of Phong Nha - Ke Bang

Discover more: Phong Nha - Ke Bang

Nhat Le Beach

A picturesque beach with soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, Nhat Le is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It's also a great spot to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and the beachfront is lined with various seafood restaurants and cafes.

Nhat Le Beach offers a refreshing and verdant retreat

Tam Toa Church Ruins

These haunting ruins stand as a testament to the Vietnam War's devastation. Once a beautiful church, now only the front facade remains, serving as a somber historical monument and a poignant reminder of the past conflicts.

The ancient beauty of Tam Toa Church Ruins

Dong Hoi Citadel

An emblem of Dong Hoi's rich history, this citadel features ancient walls and watchtowers. Visitors can explore the remains and learn about its strategic importance in defending the city during various historical periods.

Dong Hoi Citadel stands as a timeless monument

Quang Phu Sand Dunes

Offering a contrast to the coastal scenery, these dunes provide a mini desert-like experience. Visitors can enjoy activities like sandboarding or just take a walk to enjoy the unique landscape.

Quang Phu Sand Dunes unfold in majestic waves of golden sands

Food

Dong Hoi offers a diverse array of mouth-watering dishes that showcase the region's rich flavors and fresh seafood. From bustling markets filled with vibrant produce to street vendors serving up traditional Vietnamese snacks and meals, the city is a paradise for food enthusiasts. 

• Banh Canh Ca Loc (Snakehead Fish Noodle Soup)
• Seafood: Grilled oysters, clams squid, and shrimp.
• Banh Beo (Water Fern Cake)
• Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes)
• Mi Quang (Quang Noodle)
• Nem chua (Fermented pork roll)

Traveling cost of Dong Hoi

The capital of Quang Binh is known for being a budget-friendly destination, making it a great choice for travelers mindful of expenses. Here's a general idea of the costs:

• Accommodation:
  • €9 to €18 per night for hostels.
  • €18 to €50 per night for mid-range hotels,  
  • Exceed €50 per night for luxury accommodations.
• Food: 
  • €1 to €5 for street food and local eateries.
  • €5 to €15 for mid-range restaurants.
• Transportation:
  • €1.5 to €4.5 for buses and short taxi rides.
  • €4.5 to €9.5 per day for renting a motorbike.
• Activities: 
  • Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park: The entrance fee for the main park is around €1.9 to €3.8. For specific caves like Paradise Cave or Phong Nha Cave, the entrance fees range from €3.8 to €7.6.
  • Historical sites such as the Dong Hoi Citadel or the Tam Toa Church ruins: free or require a very small fee, usually less than €1.
  • Nhat Le Beach or Da Nhay Beach is generally free.
  • River Cruises: Boat trips on the Son River or to explore the park's waterways vary in price, usually ranging from €7.5 to €15.5, depending on the duration and route of the trip.
  • Sandboarding at Quang Phu Sand Dunes: around €3.5 to €8.

Best time to visit Dong Hoi

The best time to visit this location is typically from February to August. Within these months, visitors are greeted with warmly inviting temperatures that beckon one outdoors, coupled with a significant decrease in rainfall probabilities. The favorable conditions ensure that whether you're basking in the coastal sunshine or delving into the natural wonders of the caves, your experience will be both comfortable and captivating. 

How to get to Dong Hoi

This location is well-connected and accessible.

• By Air: Dong Hoi Airport, with flights connecting to major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• By Train: The Reunification Express train stops in Dong Hoi, connecting it with other major cities in Vietnam. It's a scenic way to travel, especially from the north or south.
• By Car: Renting a car or hiring a taxi for a long-distance trip is another option, offering more comfort and flexibility but at a higher cost.

Explore Dong Hoi with Asia King Travel

Dong Hoi is a mesmerizing destination that beautifully combines natural wonders, rich culture, and historical depth. Let Asia King Travel guide you in this remarkable city, where you can experience the allure of its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks.