1. Swim and sunbathe at Cua Lo Beach
In the list of things to do in Vinh, swimming at Cua Lo Beach is a must-try. Just 18 km from the center of Vinh, this 10 km stretch of fine white sand and calm, clear water is ideal for families.
Visitors can swim, sunbathe, try water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, or join a night squid fishing tour. Don’t miss local specialties such as grilled cuttlefish, clam porridge, cobia dishes, or Nghe An’s famous eel soup, with fresh seafood often cooked right on the beach for a true seaside feast.
2. Enjoy family fun at VinWonders Cua Hoi
Just 15 minutes from downtown Nghe An, VinWonders Cua Hoi by Cua Lo Beach is a top thing to do in Vinh for families and thrill seekers. Overlooking the sea, this amusement park blends stunning views with exciting attractions.
Highlights include the Tropical Paradise Water Park with 17 slides, wave pools, and a lazy river; the “Vanity Fair” Amusement Park featuring 68 rides from Go-karts to roller coasters; and the Cua Hoi cable car, Central Vietnam’s first sea-crossing cable car to Song Ngu Island. On the island, visitors can explore the 800-year-old temple, swim in clear waters, enjoy seafood, and take in traditional fishing village scenery.
The park also offers shopping and dining streets styled after the Mediterranean, plus lively daily parades and performances. Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, VinWonders Cua Hoi promises a full day of fun and adventure.
Book tickets to VinWonders Cua Hoi
3. Discover Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Memorial House
Located in Thanh Vinh Ward (formerly Quang Trung Ward, Vinh City), this memorial house honors Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, a revolutionary heroine who played a vital role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence.
The memorial is divided into two areas: the outdoor square with a 4.5-meter bronze statue depicting Minh Khai in traditional ao dai, and the indoor exhibition space. Inside, artifacts, photographs, and documents tell the story of her childhood, revolutionary journey in Vietnam, China, and the Soviet Union, and her enduring legacy. This site not only preserves history but also serves as an educational space, regularly hosting student visits, patriotic ceremonies, and cultural events.
4. Step back in time at the Old Citadel of Vinh
The Vinh Citadel (Nghe An Citadel), dating back to 1804, was once the military and administrative stronghold of the region. Located in Thanh Vinh Ward (formerly Cua Nam Ward, Vinh City), the citadel was uniquely designed in the shape of a turtle, a symbol of resilience and strength.
Originally built from soil and later reinforced with stone, the fortress covered an impressive 420,000 m². Although heavily damaged during wars, visitors today can still explore its surviving gates, moats, and sections of ancient walls, where the enduring spirit of Vietnam’s history can still be felt.
5. Pay tribute at the historic Quang Trung Temple
Perched on Dung Quyet Mountain in Truong Vinh Ward, Nghe An (formerly Trung Do Ward, Vinh City), Quang Trung Temple commemorates Emperor Quang Trung, one of Vietnam’s greatest national heroes.
Visitors climb 81 stone steps under a canopy of pine trees to reach the temple. The architecture features traditional wooden halls, engraved stone steles, and guardian statues. The view from the top stretches over the Lam River and the city, offering both spiritual peace and breathtaking scenery. Each year, the temple becomes the center of cultural festivals that celebrate Quang Trung’s legacy, making it a meaningful stop for those looking for things to do in Vinh, Vietnam.
6. Discover serenity at Tung Lam Diec Co Pagoda
Despite its central location in Thanh Vinh Ward (formerly Quang Trung Ward, Vinh City), Diec Pagoda is a tranquil oasis where time seems to stand still. Known historically as a spiritual hub, the pagoda today preserves its iconic Tam Quan Gate and ancient stone steles.
The recent restoration project has revived the pagoda, expanding its grounds and building a new main hall while maintaining traditional Vietnamese architecture. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and calming, perfect for meditation, reflection, or simply escaping the city’s bustle.
7. Stroll through the iconic Ho Chi Minh Square
Covering nearly 12 hectares, Ho Chi Minh Square is located in the heart of Vinh (now Truong Vinh Ward, Nghe An). Built in 2003, the square features an 18-meter bronze statue of President Ho Chi Minh set against an artificial mountain modeled after his hometown landscape.
The ceremonial ground includes 99 grass squares representing the peaks of Hong Linh Mountain. The square is not only a place for official parades and ceremonies but also a beloved gathering spot for locals in the evenings. For travelers, it’s a great place to learn about Vietnam’s history while enjoying an open-air stroll.
8. Marvel at the architecture of Hong Son Temple
Located in Truong Vinh Ward (formerly Vinh Tan Ward, Vinh City), Hong Son Temple dates back to the Tran Dynasty and honors Guan Yu, the legendary general from China’s Three Kingdoms period. Despite wartime destruction, the temple still retains much of its Nguyen-era architecture, with 19 structures spread over 6,250 m².
The temple is an active religious site, especially during three major annual festivals: Hung Kings’ Commemoration, Tran Hung Dao Memorial, and the Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh Festival. During these times, the temple comes alive with rituals, traditional performances, and vibrant local participation.
9. Learn history at Nghe An - Xo Viet Nghe Tinh Museum
Opened in 2025 by merging the Nghe An Museum and the Xo Viet Nghe Tinh Museum, this is now the largest museum in Nghe An Province. Located in Thanh Vinh Ward (formerly Cua Nam Ward, Vinh City), it focuses on both local history and the revolutionary Soviet Nghe Tinh movement of 1930-1931.
The museum employs digital screens and AI-powered interactive displays, allowing visitors to explore history in a more engaging way. With thousands of artifacts, the museum is essential for anyone who wants to understand Nghe An’s role in Vietnam’s revolutionary path.
10. Soak up the nightlife vibes at Vinh Walking Street
Since its opening in 2022, Vinh Walking Street has become a magnet for both locals and tourists. Stretching 1.5 kilometers across four central roads: Ho Tung Mau, Nguyen Van Cu, Nguyen Trung Ngan, and Nguyen Tai, it offers live music, street art, food vendors, and shopping opportunities.
Every weekend, more than 10,000 people flock here to relax, enjoy cultural performances, or simply hang out with friends. It’s the perfect place to taste Vinh’s street food specialties and feel the pulse of Vinh nightlife.
11. Admire the riverside views from Ben Thuy Bridge
Completed in 1990, Ben Thuy Bridge was the first modern road bridge across the Lam River. For locals, the bridge is more than just infrastructure; it symbolizes economic growth and the connection between Nghe An and Ha Tinh.
Standing on the bridge, travelers can admire the wide, flowing Lam River and enjoy beautiful sunrise or sunset views, making it a scenic stop as well as a historical landmark.
12. Cruise along the scenic Lam River
The Lam River flows over 360 kilometers from Laos to the East Sea, passing through Nghe An and Ha Tinh. Known as the “mother river,” it has shaped the region’s history and culture.
A boat cruise along the Lam offers a unique perspective of the countryside among other things to do in Vinh, Vietnam. The cruise often passes temples, ancient villages, and archaeological sites. Along the way, you will encounter legends, folk songs, and cultural traditions that highlight the river’s place in Vietnamese heritage.
>>> Discover exciting things to do in Nghe An
13. Explore the bustling stalls of Vinh Market
What to do in Vinh Vietnam? For an authentic experience, head to Vinh Market in Truong Vinh Ward (formerly Vinh Tan Ward, Vinh City), one of the largest and busiest in the province. From fresh seafood and tropical fruits to handicrafts and souvenirs, the market is a feast for the senses.
Don’t miss the food stalls serving local specialties; it’s one of the best places to try Nghe An’s cuisine at affordable prices while mingling with the locals.
14. Indulge in the flavors of Vinh’s local cuisine
Vinh City is a culinary haven where each dish tells a story:
- Sup luon (eel soup): A rich, aromatic dish made from local freshwater eel.
- Chao canh (Thick noodle soup): Comforting noodle soup with pork, fish, or shrimp.
- Banh muot (Steamed rice rolls): Soft rice sheets rolled and served with savory fillings.
- Nem thinh: A popular snack of cured pork and toasted rice powder, served with herbs.
- Bun cha cheo: A unique noodle dish with grilled pork and peanut-based dipping sauce.
- Xoi dem (late-night sticky rice): A late-night favorite, topped with braised pork, sausage, and pickled vegetables.
15. Pay a visit to Can Linh Pagoda
Known as Su Nu Pagoda because it is run by female monks, Can Linh Pagoda in Thanh Vinh Ward (formerly Cua Nam Ward, Vinh City) was built in the late Le Dynasty. Recognized as a national cultural site in 1992, the pagoda houses nearly 100 statues, the most valuable being a jackfruit-wood statue of Shakyamuni Buddha covered in gold lacquer.
The peaceful grounds, traditional architecture, and spiritual significance make it one of Vinh’s most cherished cultural treasures. The pagoda undoubtedly adds a spiritual note to the list of things to do in Vinh.
FAQs about things to do in Vinh
What are the best free things to do in Vinh?
If you are traveling on a budget, Vinh still offers plenty of memorable experiences:
- Visit Vinh Citadel and learn about its history.
- Stroll along Vinh Walking Street during the weekend.
- Shop and explore local culture at Vinh Market.
- Swim at Cua Lo Beach.
- Relax at Ho Chi Minh Square.
What cultural experiences can I try in Vinh City?
Vinh is deeply rooted in history and tradition, making it an excellent cultural destination. Here are some common cultural experiences:
- Visit temples and pagodas such as Quang Trung Temple, Hong Son Temple, and Can Linh Pagoda.
- Explore revolutionary sites like the Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Memorial House.
- Attend local festivals and learn about intangible heritage.
What are the best day trips from Vinh?
If you have extra time, there are many worthwhile destinations within a short drive, perfect for a day trip.
- Thanh Chuong Tea Island: Enjoy a boat trip around lush green tea hills.
- Pu Mat National Park: Trek through forests, discover waterfalls, and spot rare wildlife.
- Kim Lien Relic Site: Learn about President Ho Chi Minh’s life and family by visiting Lang Sen Relic, Hoang Tru Relic, Chung Mountain Relic, and the Tomb of Ms. Hoang Thi Loan.
What are the top things to do in Vinh at night?
Vinh comes alive after dark with exciting options for both locals and tourists, such as:
- Walk along Vinh Walking Street.
- Try street food and late-night sticky rice stalls.
- Take a relaxing evening stroll by Cua Lo Beach.
Since merging with Cua Lo in 2024, Vinh has emerged as one of Vietnam’s most dynamic travel destinations. From the sparkling waves of Cua Lo Beach and thrilling rides at VinWonders Cua Hoi to solemn temples, historical museums, and unforgettable cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Vinh.
To make your journey even more memorable, choosing the right place to stay is just as important as the attractions themselves. For travelers seeking comfort, elegance, and convenience by the sea, Vinpearl Cua Hoi Resort, Affiliated by Meliá, is the perfect choice. Located right on the beautiful Cua Lo coastline, the resort offers stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, and world-class facilities.
