Nestled along Vietnam's southern coast, Vung Tau is a vibrant city that blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and welcoming atmosphere, Vung Tau has become a sought-after destination for travelers. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea, a taste of local culture, or an adventure through history, Vung Tau offers it all. Let’s take a walk through the must-see attractions, local delicacies, and unique experiences that make Vung Tau a true coastal gem.
Population: Approximately 470,000 in 2022.
Economy: Vung Tau’s economy thrives on tourism, oil and gas industries, and shipping. The city’s port plays a key role, while tourism boosts local businesses and hospitality services.
Landmarks: Famous for the statue Christ of Vung Tau, Vung Tau Lighthouse, and White Palace.
Vietnam
Vung Tau's history is as rich as its landscapes. Once a humble fishing village, the city gained prominence during French colonial times, leaving behind a legacy of elegant architecture and a cosmopolitan flair. During the Vietnam War, Vung Tau served as an important military base, and remnants of this era can be explored in museums and memorials throughout the city. This blend of influences—French colonial, Cham, and Vietnamese—has shaped Vung Tau into a cultural mosaic, offering travelers a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern amenities.
Vung Tau is home to a population of approximately 470,000 residents, making it a lively yet manageable city. The citizens of Vung Tau are known for their friendliness and hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms. The population is a mix of locals, many of whom have deep-rooted ties to the fishing industry, and a growing number of people from other parts of Vietnam who have moved to the city for work or its coastal lifestyle. This blend of old and new creates a vibrant community that values tradition while embracing modernity.
Vung Tau City - © Hữu Phú
Vung Tau is a treasure trove of attractions that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, and beachgoers alike. These attractions, each with its unique charm, showcase the diverse experiences Vung Tau offers.
Christ of Vung Tau - © VnExpress
Vung Tau’s culinary tradition is a delightful reflection of its coastal location and cultural influences. The city’s vibrant food culture offers a feast for the senses, from fresh seafood to traditional Vietnamese delicacies.
Banh Khot (Mini Savory Pancake) - © Dan Viet News
The Whale Festival is one of the most important and culturally significant events in Vung Tau. Held annually, typically in August, this festival honors Ca Ong, the whale god, who is revered by the local fishing community as a protector of fishermen and their livelihoods. The festival features elaborate ceremonies, including the procession of a whale skeleton through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and dance. The highlight of the event is the offering of sacrifices and prayers at the Whale Temple (God Thang Tam Temple), where locals express their gratitude and seek blessings for a bountiful fishing season. The atmosphere is one of reverence and celebration, attracting both locals and tourists.
Celebrated in nearby Long Hai Beach, the Dinh Co Festival is a grand annual event held in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar. This festival honors Lady Dinh Cô, a local deity believed to protect sailors and fishermen. The festival spans several days and includes a range of activities such as ceremonial offerings, traditional music performances, and dragon dances. Pilgrims from all over the region flock to the Dinh Co Temple to pay their respects and participate in the rituals. The festival also features a vibrant market where visitors can purchase local goods and enjoy traditional foods. The Dinh Co Festival is a deeply spiritual experience, reflecting the community’s devotion and cultural heritage.
Do you love the dynamic features of Vietnam? Learn more about Hoa Binh here.
The Whale Festival - © Ba Ria-Vung Tau Official Website
Relax at Vung Tau serene beach - © MIA
Off-peak season at Vung Tau - © MIA
Vung Tau at night - © Vietnam Tourism
Vung Tau offers a range of banking and financial services to accommodate both locals and tourists. Numerous ATMs are conveniently located throughout the city, especially in popular areas such as the city center, near major hotels, and shopping districts, and they typically accept international credit and debit cards for cash withdrawals. Banking branches are also available, where you can conduct transactions, exchange currency, and access financial assistance. While credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Nestled in the misty highlands of northern Laos, Xiangkhouang is a province where ancient legends meet living heritage. Home to the enigmatic Plain of Jars, Xiangkhouang invites travelers to step off the beaten path and uncover a land shaped by war, resilience, and timeless traditions. Whether you’re an explorer drawn to megalithic wonders, a cultural traveler seeking human connection, or a nature lover craving serene landscapes, Xiangkhouang promises something uniquely unforgettable.
Population: Approximately 278,000 in 2025.
Economy: Xiangkhouang’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, tourism, and small-scale trade. The fertile plains and cooler climate support many types of crops and livestock farming. In recent years, tourism has emerged as a growing sector, thanks to the Plain of Jars and eco-cultural experiences attracting both domestic and international travelers.
Landmarks: Famous for the Plain of Jars, Muang Khoun, and Tad Ka Waterfall.
Nestled in Japan's scenic Tohoku region, Fukushima offers travelers a unique blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming communities, Fukushima is an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience beyond the bustling metropolises. Renowned for its diverse attractions, from ancient castles and hot springs to vibrant festivals and picturesque countryside, Fukushima offers a great opportunity for cultural and historical exploration for anyone who loves Japanese culture.
Population: Approximately 1.8 million in 2023.
Economy: Specializing in the seafood and fishing industries, Fukushima, with its historical impacts, now continues to thrive as one of the most developed and largest economies in Japan.
Landmarks: Famous for Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle, Fukushima City Historical Museum, and Ouchi-juku.
Floating gently in the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea, Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most treasured islands. Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, this peaceful destination draws travelers with its spiritual energy, ancient shrines, and wild-yet-gentle sacred deer that roam freely. Renowned for the iconic floating Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima blends centuries of Shinto belief, Buddhist tradition, and natural beauty into one unforgettable journey.
Population: Approximately 1,500 in 2019.
Economy: Miyajima’s economy is deeply rooted in tourism. Visitors fuel local businesses such as traditional inns (ryokan), souvenir shops, street food vendors, and ferry services.
Landmarks: Famous for Itsukushima Shrine and the Floating Torii Gate, Mount Misen, and the Daisho-in Temple.
Anuradhapura is not just a place to visit, it’s a place to feel. Nestled in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites travelers to walk among sacred stupas, ancient ruins, and vibrant rituals that span over two millennia. Known as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Anuradhapura blends religious reverence, royal history, and everyday village life. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a history lover, or a curious wanderer, this ancient city offers a deep and memorable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural identity.
Population: Approximately 950,000 in 2022.
Economy: Anuradhapura’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, religious tourism, and small-scale trade. The region is known for rice farming, supported by ancient irrigation systems. Tourism, linked to its UNESCO World Heritage status, also plays a vital role, in supporting local businesses, guides, and hospitality services.
Landmarks: Famous for the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and Jetavanaramaya Monastery.
Polonnaruwa isn’t just a place but a journey back in time. Tucked in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonderland of ancient ruins, sacred temples, and royal architecture that whisper tales of a grand past. Once a thriving capital of Sinhalese kings and a center of Buddhist learning, Polonnaruwa today blends history, serenity, and cultural charm. Explore majestic stone carvings, cycle through peaceful landscapes, and connect with locals who embody Sri Lanka’s warm spirit. With every step, you'll uncover layers of a story that spans centuries.
Population: Approximately 450,000 in 2022.
Economy: Polonnaruwa’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, especially rice cultivation, supported by ancient irrigation systems like Parakrama Samudra. Tourism also plays a key role, with small-scale trading, handicrafts, and local services contributing to the town’s economic fabric.
Landmarks: Famous for the Gal Vihara, Parakrama Samudra, and The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Dambulla is more than a stopover—it’s a window into the island’s spiritual soul. This town is best known for the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that guards over two millennia of Buddhist art and devotion. But beyond its famed rock shrines lies a land of rolling hills, vibrant markets, and friendly locals. Just a short drive from Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Cultural Triangle, it’s the perfect base to explore the heart of Sri Lanka.
Population: Approximately 72,000 in 2022.
Economy: Dambulla’s economy thrives on agriculture, tourism, and trade as a major hub in Sri Lanka’s vegetable and fruit supply chain. Tourism also plays a key role in local crafts, hospitality, and transport services, further supporting the regional economy.
Landmarks: Famous for the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and The Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre.