Since the movie “The Scent of Green Papaya,” tourism in Phu Yen has emerged as a phenomenon. If this land was previously known simply as a coastal region in Central Vietnam, travel enthusiasts can’t help but get excited when they discover the “gifts of nature” hidden in Phu Yen, each of which is top-notch.

Whether you love forests, enjoy the sea, are enchanted by pristine islands, or have an endless passion for the simple life of the Central Vietnam region, Phu Yen can satisfy you. So, with Vietnampeace, let’s bring along the whole Phu Yen travel experience below and explore the “land of yellow flowers and green grass” to your heart’s content!

1. Best Time to Visit Phu Yen

Being in the tropical monsoon climate zone, Phu Yen experiences two distinct seasons: sunny and rainy. A plus point for this coastal region is that the rainy season is not prolonged and falls towards the end of the year, from September to December. This has turned Phu Yen into a lively paradise for summer by the beach.
Moreover, there are many unique cultural festivals here, the most typical being the “Bai Choi Festival,” often held during the Lunar New Year. Rest assured, this will be a fascinating cultural experience for your spring trip!

2. Getting to Phu Yen

By plane

The most convenient and time-saving way to travel is by air. Tuy Hoa city in Phu Yen province has a domestic airport that serves flights from two major cities: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

The flight from Hanoi to Tuy Hoa takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with prices ranging from 1,200,000 to 3,000,000 VND per way.
The flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Tuy Hoa is about 1 hour shorter, with airfares ranging from 500,000 to 1,800,000 VND per way.
After landing at Tuy Hoa airport, you can easily take a taxi to the city center, only about 10km away.

By train

Phu Yen has Tuy Hoa railway station, a stop for the North-South trains with various departure times for you to choose from. Train travel time will be longer, taking from half a day to a day, so it’s only suitable for travelers with ample time. You can check the train schedule and purchase tickets here.

Departing from Ho Chi Minh City, you can take trains with codes SE2, SE10, SE22, SE26, TN2, SQN2, and SQN4, with ticket prices ranging from 250,000 to 1,000,000 VND per way.
Departing from Hanoi, there are trains with codes SE2, SE4, SE10, and TN2, with ticket prices ranging from 350,000 to 1,400,000 VND per way.

By bus

The most affordable option is definitely by bus. Although it may take longer than a train, about 1-2 hours more, according to the Phu Yen travel experience, traveling by bus is still quite convenient, especially for those departing from Ho Chi Minh City.

Popular bus companies from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Yen include Hoang Long, Hung Tien, and Nam Tien… with ticket prices ranging from 200,000 to 240,000 VND per way. The journey takes about 13 hours.
From Hanoi, Hoang Long bus company is the most familiar. Buses run 24 hours with ticket prices around 500,000 VND per way.

3. Transportation in Phu Yen

Motorbike: The most convenient option for your Phu Yen trip is to rent a motorbike to roam around. With prices ranging from 80,000 to 150,000 VND daily, you can easily rent a motorbike directly from hotels in Phu Yen.

Taxi: If you don’t enjoy long-distance driving, Phu Yen has many taxi companies ready to serve you, such as Mai Linh, Vinasun, Sao Phu Yen, and Sun Phu Yen.

Bus: An exciting option for those who want to experience the local atmosphere. The bus fare ranges from 7,000 to 40,000 VND per trip.

Tandem bicycle: What’s better than an afternoon by the beach than riding a tandem bike with a rental fee of only 20,000 VND per hour

In conclusion, Phu Yen awaits you with its pristine beauty and fascinating experiences. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover this charming land!

4. Must-Visit Places in Phu Yen – Embracing the Beauty of the “Land of Yellow Flowers and Green Grass”

4.1 Enchanting Coastal Bays

Tuy Hoa Beach

Location: An Phu Commune, Tuy An District
Phu Yen is blessed with a long coastline, and right in the heart of Tuy Hoa city lies a beautiful beach stretching over 10km, nestled under lush coconut trees. Unlike the bustling beaches of Nha Trang or Mui Ne, Tuy Hoa Beach captivates with its tranquil and straightforward charm, where locals gather for refreshing evenings.

Despite its tranquility, Tuy Hoa Beach offers various activities like water sports and seaside eateries serving tempting dishes such as scallops, shrimp, crab, and oysters, perfect to accompany a leisurely afternoon with a sip of rice wine.

Vung Ro Bay

Location: Xuan Hoa Nam Commune, Dong Hoa District (33km south of Tuy Hoa City). Follow National Highway 1A near C Pass, then take the road to Vung Ro.
Vung Ro is a small bay nestled between Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa, embraced by all three mountain ranges of Phu Yen.

Vung Ro Bay is beautiful, and the journey to reach it is captivating enough to mesmerize any discerning traveler. Prepare to be enchanted by the stretches of lush greenery, interconnected with each other, and the distant blue sea resembling a reflective mirror of beauty.

Xuan Dai Bay

Location: Stretching across three communes: Xuan Tho, Xuan Thinh, and Song Cau. From Tuy Hoa city, head north on National Highway 1A for about 45km until reaching Ganh Hill.
While Vung Ro Bay is known for its serene seascape, Xuan Dai Bay is famed for its unique rocky cliffs, formed by the Cau Ngua mountain range, reaching out to the sea under the influence of erosion.

However, Xuan Dai Bay isn’t just about sandy beaches and rocky shores. It also boasts ancient fishing villages and traditional salt fields in the Song Cau district, offering a glimpse into the simple and authentic coastal life.

Mon Beach – Dien Cape

Location: Dong Be Hamlet, Hoa Tam Commune, Dong Hoa District
Mon Beach is one of the busiest spots in the country and the earliest place to catch the sunrise. Mon Beach may not be extended, only about half a kilometer, but nestled between two mountain ranges, the sea here is calm, the waves gentle, and the slope leisurely, perfect for swimming.

At Mon Beach, there’s also Dien Cape Lighthouse, commonly known as Dai Lanh Cape, which welcomes the first sunlight nationwide. Although the ascent to the lighthouse may be challenging, the breathtaking scenery is well worth it.

Xep Beach – Ong Reef

Location: An Chan Commune, Tuy An District (14km north of the city center).
One of the peak scenes of the “I See Yellow Flowers on Green Grass” movie, Xep Beach, has become a must-visit destination when traveling to Phu Yen.

Featuring rocky shores facing turbulent waves and lush green grasslands with a touch of wilderness, Xep Beach always impresses travelers seeking a peaceful sanctuary to admire nature.

4.2 The Haven of Deserted Islands

Cu Lao Mai Nha

How to Get There: Located in An Hai Commune, Tuy An District, you can take a boat from An Hai Fishing Port for 50,000 VND per person.
With its somewhat strange name, Cu Lao Mai Nha is dubbed the Robinson Island of Phu Yen. Although just a half-hour boat ride from the coast, this island is sparsely inhabited, which helps it maintain its pristine beauty.

However, this very reason makes Hon Nua irresistibly attractive in Phu Yen travel experiences. The most exciting experience on Hon Nua is undoubtedly immersing yourself in the clear blue sea and camping on the beach with friends.

Nhat Tu Son Island

How to Get There: Located in Song Cau Commune, about 40km north of Tuy Hoa.
Besides Diep Son of Khanh Hoa, Nhat Tu Son Island is famous for its unique sea walking path. Nhat Tu Son is a small island close to the shore, connected to the mainland by a narrow road. During low tide, you can comfortably walk to the island to explore the beautiful scenery adorned with green forests amidst rugged cliffs and mysterious caves.

When visiting Cu Lao Mai Nha, don’t be surprised by the crystal-clear water and the smooth sand, ideal for a beach camping trip. However, remember to prepare all the necessary equipment before staying on the island.

Hon Nua Island

How to Get There: At the foot of Dai Lanh Pass, a boat rental service to Hon Nua for 100,000 VND per person.
If Cu Lao Mai Nha is Robinson Island, Hon Nua is the “forgotten land.” The island is entirely uninhabited, with only a border guard station.

4.3 Explore the Beautiful Natural Wonders

Ganh Da Dia (Ganh Da Dia Rocks)

Location: An Ninh Dong Commune, Tuy An District
Ganh Da Dia is always the first destination mentioned in Phu Yen’s travel experiences. The name Ganh Da Dia originates from the rock formations resembling beehive cells, closely arranged, fitting together like puzzle pieces as if sculpted by a magical force of nature.

Da Bia Mountain

Location: Hoa Tam Commune, Tuy Hoa City, 23km from the city center towards C Pass
As the highest peak in C Pass, Da Bia Mountain is impressive from afar, with a towering stone monument amidst the clouds, towering over 80m. Standing on Da Bia Mountain (also known as Ong Mountain or Thach Bi Son), you can take in the beautiful view of Vung Ro Bay, the picturesque river and mountain scenery, and the poetic rice fields of the native land.

O Loan Lagoon

Location: Tuy An District, 22km north of Tuy Hoa City, towards Phuoc Bac. Drive along National Highway 1A to Quan Cau Pass, then further away.
Nestled at the foot of Quan Cau Pass, O Loan Lagoon is a freshwater lagoon with stunning views from above – resembling a phoenix spreading its wings. Try visiting O Loan Lagoon at sunrise or sunset to admire the sun’s radiant glow on the tranquil water surface.

But that’s not the most appealing aspect. O Loan Lagoon is most famous for its tempting seafood, such as scallops, oysters, and king crabs… All bear the mark of O Loan Lagoon as a testament to quality.

Xom Roz Wave Barrier

Location: Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Phu Dong Ward, Tuy Hoa City
It’s just a simple wave barrier, but the Xom Roz Wave Barrier is more special than others. Green moss-covered layers on the gray concrete blocks, half submerged and half floating on the water’s surface, create an incredibly unique scene.

Although just a wave barrier, taking photos here requires much effort. The best time to capture

the most beautiful pictures at Xom Roz are around 5:00 am when the sun rises, shining down on the vibrant green moss patches.

Van Hoa Plateau

How to Get There: From Tuy Hoa, take National Highway 1A northward
Located at an altitude of 400m, Van Hoa is the most beloved plateau among the three plateaus of Phu Yen. Dubbed the “Da Lat of the coconut land,” Van Hoa always has a cool climate, bathed in sunlight, sometimes shrouded in mist and fog.

4.4 Explore Phu Yen’s Culture and History

Mang Lang Ancient Church

Location: An Thach Commune, Tuy An District, 35km north of Tuy Hoa City
Mang Lang Church is where the first Vietnamese quoc ngu (national language) book, titled “Phép giảng tám ngày” (Eight-Day Sermon), compiled by Father Alexandre de Rhodes, is preserved. This church, over 130 years old, still retains its venerable Gothic architecture, enduring through time.

Ganh Den Lighthouse

Location: Tuy An District, 15 minutes from Ganh Da Dia
Very close to Ganh Da Dia, Ganh Den Lighthouse is ranked among the most beautiful lighthouses in Vietnam. Perched on a rocky promontory, with the waves crashing below, the lighthouse stands out with its red and white colors, as if it has been there for a long time.

Nhan Tower

Location: Ward 1, Tuy Hoa City, in the northern riverside area of Da Rang River
Nhan Tower is an ancient Cham tower built in the 11th century, featuring the typical high-rise architecture with intricate carvings, a testament to a once prosperous cultural era.

Inside the tower is a statue of the Lady of Champa, Thien Y A Na Dien Ngoc Phi, from the Late Le Dynasty. Standing outside the building on the summit of Nhan Mountain, you can overlook Tuy Hoa City, with Nhan Mountain and Da Rang River creating a dreamy scene.

Ong Cop Bridge

How to Get There: From Tuy Hoa City, take National Highway 1 towards Vung Xoai Garden, Binh Thanh, Tuy An District
As the longest wooden bridge in Vietnam, Ong Cop Bridge will surprise you with its 400m-long wooden bridge entirely made of bamboo and wood. When visiting Ong Cop Bridge, let your soul calm down with the peaceful scenery of the Vietnamese countryside, especially in the gentle orange hue of the sunset, beautiful and gentle like a painting.

Dong Cam Dam

Location: National Highway 25, Phu Hoa District
Dong Cam Dam is the most enormous irrigation work in Phu Yen province. It was designed and built by the French in the 1930s. After nearly a century, the dam still plays a crucial role in the lives and economic development of the local people.

Today, with its majestic scenery of a dam nearly 700m long, Dong Cam is also a must-visit Phu Yen tourist destination.

5. Must-Try Delicacies in Phu Yen

Being part of the Central region with a unique culinary culture, Phu Yen will surely delight food enthusiasts with its irresistible local dishes. Which are the must-try delicacies in Phu Yen during your travel experiences?

Ocean Tuna Eyes

Ocean tuna is one of the province’s major export products. Therefore, dishes made from tuna have become specialties here, with the most famous being ocean tuna eyes.

“Nutritious and delicious,” ocean tuna eyes just need to be marinated in water with some spices to become a nutritious dish with a memorable taste.

Recommended places to try
– Bà Tám Restaurant: 289 Lê Duẩn, Tuy Hòa City
– 293C Lê Duẩn, Ward 3, Tuy Hòa City

Squid Vermicelli Soup (Bún Mực)

Phu Yen has an attractive version of squid vermicelli soup using fresh and delicious seafood from the sea. Instead of using leaf squid, Phu Yen’s squid vermicelli soup uses small cuttlefish, which are tender and not too chewy.

The soup is cooked with tamarind, pineapple, and tomatoes. When served, it is accompanied by a plate of fresh vegetables and bean sprouts, perfect for a hot summer lunch.

Recommended places to try:
– Hoàng Linh Restaurant: 166 Hùng Vương, Tuy Hòa City
– Đất Phú Restaurant: 169 Lê Thánh Tôn, Tuy Hòa City

Chive Fish Cake Soup (Bánh Canh Hẹ)

Chive fish cake soup is a unique version of the familiar fish cake soup. The crispy, fragrant fish cakes and the fresh flavor of sedge create a distinctive coastal dish.

Recommended places to try:
– 48B Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 4, Tuy Hòa City
– Bánh Canh Hẹ Chả Cá Sông Cầu: Lê Lợi, Tuy Hòa City

Banh Hoi with Pork Intestines (Bánh Hỏi Lòng Heo)

While traveling through the Central provinces, don’t be surprised if banh hoi is not served with roasted pork but instead with pork intestines. Paired with a bowl of hot rice porridge and a cup of chili fish sauce, it creates a satisfying and comforting meal.

Recommended places to try:
– Yến Restaurant: 118 Hùng Vương, Ward 6, Tuy Hòa City
– 123 Điện Biên Phủ, Tuy Hòa City

Phu Yen Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà Phú Yên)

Phu Yen’s chicken rice will remind you of the famous chicken rice in Hoi An. The fragrant rice is cooked with chicken broth, adding a bit of turmeric for a vibrant yellow color. The chicken can be chopped or shredded into bite-sized pieces.

Recommended places:
– Tuyết Nhung Chicken Rice: 189 Lê Thánh Tô, Ward 3, Tuy Hòa City
– Thiên Hương Restaurant: 211 Lê Thánh Tôn

Mackerel Salad (Gỏi Cá Mai)

As a familiar dish in the Central Coastal area, fresh mackerel salad is always a favorite after a joyful exploration. The fish often used in Phu Yen salad is mackerel – trim, firm, and sweet.

Recommended places to try:
– Restaurants in the O Loan Lagoon area
– Lâm Hùng Seafood Restaurant: Long Phu Bridge, An Cu Commune, Tuy An District

Dong Sausage (Chả Dông)

Although it may look like northern-style fried nem or southern-style spring rolls, dong sausage is a dish worth trying in your Phu Yen travel experiences, the main ingredient is dong, a reptile living in sandy areas.

After frying, dong sausage is rolled with rice paper and fresh vegetables and dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce. If you’re still unsatisfied, don’t forget to order a bowl of dong congee for a hearty meal.

Recommended places to try:
– Nem Nướng – Chả Dông: 92 Nguyễn Công Trứ, Ward 3, Tuy Hòa City
– Nem Cây Dông Restaurant: 209 Bà Triệu, Ward 7, Tuy Hòa City

6. Where to Stay in Phu Yen Now?

Phu Yen has recently become a “hotspot” on the tourism map, so the hotel system here is also developing and becoming more diverse daily. The most significant advantage of hotels in Phu Yen is their affordable prices, regardless of the chosen price range.

Phu Yen Hotels

For a luxurious resort experience, 4-star hotels in Phu Yen, such as CenDeluxe Hotel – Managed by H&K Hospitality, Kaya Hotel, or Sai Gon Phu Yen Hotel are excellent choices. These hotels near Tuy Hoa Beach offer beautiful views, high-quality facilities, and impeccable services.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, there are also 2-3-star hotels in Phu Yen. Scandia Resort, Hung Vuong Hotel Phu Yen, and Hong Ngoc Hotel Tuy Hoa provide comfortable and convenient stays. Additionally, hotels in this mid-range category are often concentrated in the city center of Tuy Hoa, making them convenient for your travel journey.

Homestays, Hostels in Phu Yen

As a favorite destination for young travelers, Phu Yen cannot ignore homestays and budget-friendly hostels that cater to those who love adventurous experiences. Staying at Bon Homestay, Joy House, or Kool House, you can enjoy a cozy and charming space while experiencing the simplicity of the Nau region.

7. Other Travel Tips for Phu Yen

– Due to its favorable climate, traveling to Phu Yen is most prevalent during the summer. To ensure a smooth trip, booking your hotel in Phu Yen early is advisable to avoid room price hikes.
– Before using motorcycle taxi services, shopping, or travel services, remember to inquire about prices and negotiate beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
– The sun in Phu Yen can be intense, so be sure to prepare sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket to protect your skin.
– Phu Yen’s tourist destinations are spread out, so it’s essential to have a strategy for moving around without wasting too much time. Prepare both a map and Google Maps to avoid getting lost.

In addition to the comprehensive guide, travelers can explore more detailed insights and recommendations on Phu Yen’s attractions, accommodations, and travel tips through platforms like Vietnampeace.com. Websites like Vietnampeace.com offer valuable resources and firsthand accounts from fellow travelers, enhancing the planning process and enriching the experience of exploring Phu Yen and other destinations across Vietnam.

Dreaming scenery on Phu Yen beach (Photo: Collection)

Phu Yen has a beautiful day (Image: Collection)

The poetic beauty of Xep beach (Image: Collection)

An ancient, rich concentration (Image: Collection)

Traveling to Phu Yen self-sufficient, you cannot help but miss the romantic Disk of Discus (Image: Collection)

Wooden bridge across O Loan lagoon (Image: Collection)

Peaceful beauty in Ngoc Lang vegetable village (Photo: Collection)

Vung Ro Bay with a peaceful setting captivates people (Image: Collection)

Sunset on Mon beach (Image: CollectioThe beautiful fields of poetic hearts (Image: Collection)