Things To Do
in Quảng Trị
Quảng Trị is a coastal province in central Vietnam famed for its DMZ history, rugged beaches, and tranquil rural landscapes. The terrain blends riverine plains, rolling hills, and forested uplands that shelter a hearty fishing and farming culture. Key sites like the Hiền Lương Bridge and Vĩnh Mốc tunnels offer sobering reminders of the past, while the coastline around Cửa Việt beckons with seafood and sunsets.
Today, visitors can explore war-era landmarks, enjoy fresh Central Vietnamese cuisine, and use Quảng Trị as a gateway to Laos and the Annamite mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Quang Tri Citadel, a significant historical site that tells the story of Vietnam's war history. Wander through the remnants of the ancient fortress, which provides insight into military architecture and the strategic importance it held. Capture stunning photos of the impressive walls and historical artifacts that adorn the site.
Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties and delicacies. Afterward, continue your historical exploration by visiting the nearby Dakrong Bridge, where you can take in picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Engage with local vendors selling traditional crafts and souvenirs, a perfect way to support the community.
As night falls, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of Quang Tri's many eateries, where you can taste the authentic flavors of Central Vietnam. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and observations of local life. Wind down your evening with a local coffee, savoring the rich taste and chatting with friendly residents.
Today, take an early trip to the Vinh Moc Tunnels, an incredible network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Join a guided tour that will bring the historical significance of this site to life as you navigate through the tunnels and learn about the families that lived here. The tunnels reflect the resilience of the Vietnamese people during challenging times.
After your exploration of the tunnels, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a nearby local eatery. Following lunch, visit the beach at Trieu Lang to rejuvenate your spirit with the soothing sounds of waves. Don’t forget to take a refreshing dip in the sea before heading back to Quang Tri.
For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, feeling the gentle breeze as you relish the flavors of the coast. Sit back and enjoy the sunset over the ocean, a picturesque way to end a day of historical discovery and relaxation. After dinner, explore the lively local markets, buzzing with activity and vibrant with colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $1-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich DMZ history with accessible, meaningful sites
- Coastal scenery and fresh Central Vietnamese cuisine
- Affordability and small-town hospitality
- Gateway access to Laos and the Annamite range
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Some sites require long drives from Đông Hà
- Weather can be unpredictable during the rainy/typhoon seasons
- Fewer direct international flight options compared to larger cities
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry/Excuse me
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ở đây có wifi không?" - Is there wifi here?
- "Tôi cần giúp đỡ" - I need help
- "Tất cả là bao nhiêu?" - What is the total price?
Places to Visit in Quảng Trị
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic symbol of the DMZ with wide river views, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Underground tunnel complex set in a quiet hillside; stark architecture and historical context make compelling documentary shots.
Long, sandy shoreline with soft horizons and fishermen at work; great for long-exposure seascapes.
Museum artifacts and displays that provide context for the region’s history; good for curated, informative photography.
Vibrant daily life scenes with boats, markets, and locals going about routine activities.
Food in Quảng Trị
Quảng Trị Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice vermicelli with grilled pork, fresh herbs, cucumbers, and a bright nuoc cham sauce; a staple across the province and easy to find in Đông Hà.
Must-Try!
Rice with tiny clams, herbs, and a savory mix of sauces; a regional specialty available at riverfront eateries.
Crispy turmeric-tinged rice flour pancake stuffed with shrimp and pork, served with herbs and a dipping sauce.
Crab fried with salt and garlic-lime seasoning, often enjoyed with greens and rice after a day of sightseeing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market for fresh seafood, herbs, vegetables, and quick street bites; ideal for tasting local snacks.
Casual stalls offering grilled seafood, steamed clams, and light bites right by the beach.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respectful attire is advised when visiting religious sites and more traditional communities.
A simple “Xin chào” (hello) and a respectful nod or handshake are appropriate; address elders as ‘ông’/‘bà’ or ‘anh/chị’ as appropriate.
Ask before photographing people, especially in rural settings or markets.
Safety
Tipping in Quảng Trị
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up bills or leaving small tips at restaurants and with guides is common in tourist areas.
Cash (Vietnamese dong) is widely used; some larger establishments accept cards. ATMs are common in urban centers; keep cash for markets and rural stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant, cooler mornings and mild afternoons; ideal for outdoor sighting and long walks with lower humidity.
Humid with frequent showers; lush landscapes and vibrant greenery, but carry rain gear and watch for flooding in low-lying areas.
Coastal seas can be rough; plan water activities with weather alerts and have backup indoor options.
Quảng Trị at Night
Hiking in Quảng Trị
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-clad hills and open plateaus near the Khe Sanh area; offers panoramic valley views and historical landscape mixing hiking with history.
Ridge trails in the border region with Laos; a more remote hiking option with forest canopy and distant river views.
Airports
How to reach Quảng Trị by plane.
Nearest regional airport with domestic connections; convenient for reaching Quảng Trị from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City via connections.
Relatively close to the region; serves domestic and some international flights, useful for onward travel to central Vietnam.
Major hub with frequent international and domestic flights; a common gateway for broader central Vietnam itineraries.
Longer regional connection option if flying from abroad or planning a longer circuit of northern Vietnam before heading south.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group, making up the majority of the population across urban and rural areas.
Includes groups such as Bru-Van Kieu and others in hillside districts; cultural traditions are visible in crafts and local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played in schools, markets, and local fields across the province.
Traditional coastal activities and informal beach games common along the shore.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quảng Trị.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-focused dishes or request tofu-based options; ask for dishes without fish sauce or meat broth and look for clear vegetable stock options.