Top 8 must-visit destinations in Quang Tri you must visit at least once

Quang Tri Ancient Citadel is located right in the center of Quang Tri town, on the banks of the Thach Han River, and is a Special National Relic. The citadel was built during the Gia Long reign (1809), initially made of earth, and later rebuilt with bricks by King Minh Mang in 1837. The citadel is square, with a circumference of over 2,000m, a height of over 4m, featuring 4 main gates, a moat system, and fortresses.

This place is famous for the 81-day-and-night battle in the summer of 1972 – one of the most fierce battles in modern Vietnamese history. Today, the Ancient Citadel is a large park where visitors can admire brick walls scarred by bullet holes, visit the museum, and explore memorial works. This is an indispensable destination to pay tribute to history and feel the peace after the storm.

Hien Luong Bridge crossing the Ben Hai River, in Vinh Linh district, is a symbol of the division of the South and the North for 21 years (1954-1975). With the 17th parallel running across, this bridge is not only an architectural work but also a historical witness of painful war years. Hien Luong Bridge was once painted in two colors, green and yellow, symbolizing the partition of the country. Beside the bridge is a relic area with a museum displaying war artifacts and stories of the desire for national unification.

When coming to Hien Luong Bridge, do not forget to check in at this historic bridge and listen to stories from guides about the key events associated with the partition period. You can also visit the 17th parallel flagpole, a symbol of the division between South and North. If you have the chance to visit in April or July, you can participate in memorial festivals, where flowers are released onto the Ben Hai River, carrying a profound meaning of the aspiration for peace and unity.

Vinh Moc Tunnels, in Vinh Thach commune, Vinh Linh district, is a miracle of resilience during the anti-American war. The tunnel system is over 2km long, 20-23m deep, and was once home to hundreds of people during the fierce war years.

The tunnels are designed with three levels, including living quarters, food storage, and meeting rooms. This is the only place in Vietnam where an entire village once lived underground.

When exploring Vinh Moc Tunnels, you will experience narrow, winding passages underground, which were once shelters for local people during the war years. Bring a flashlight to navigate easily and listen to touching stories about the wartime life of the people back then. To ensure safety, you should wear sneakers as the tunnels are often damp and slippery. Prepare yourself for narrow and dark spaces, but it is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience that helps you better understand the resilience and determination of those who lived inside.

La Vang Holy Land (Hai Phu commune, Hai Lang district) is where the Virgin Mary appeared in 1798 during a period of religious persecution. This is the Basilica of Our Lady of La Vang – the National Marian Center, attracting hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year. The spacious campus features an ancient bell tower, a chapel, the Rosary Plaza, three historical banyan trees, and impressive religious architecture. Not only a pilgrimage site, La Vang also offers a peaceful space, suitable for any traveler seeking tranquility.

Cua Tung Beach, in Vinh Linh district, is dubbed the "queen of Quang Tri beaches" thanks to its pristine beauty, fine white sand, and crystal-clear blue water. This place still retains its raw, uncrowded charm, making it an ideal destination to relax and enjoy the peaceful ocean space. You can swim, enjoy fresh seafood like rock crabs (priced at around 200,000 VND/kg), or even camp overnight on the beach to fully enjoy the beauty of nature. Summer, from May to August, is a great time to visit Cua Tung, but you should note to avoid the hot, dry Lao wind for a truly comfortable trip.

Con Co Island, about 30km from the mainland, is a unique destination with pristine natural beauty and profound historical significance. During the anti-American war, this island was a resilient outpost of the Vietnamese military and people. The island spans only 2.3km² but owns a diverse ecosystem, with primeval forests and beautiful beaches. The seafood here, especially rock crabs, is a must-try delicacy.

Exploring Con Co lighthouse, a symbol of the island, is a must-try experience when coming here. You can also snorkel to watch corals in the clear blue water or learn about war history through the relics left on the island. For a smooth trip, remember to book boat tickets in advance and prepare food if you plan to camp, as services on the island are still limited, allowing you to have a self-sufficient experience closer to nature.

Dakrong Suspension Bridge is one of the iconic transport structures of Dakrong district, Quang Tri province, closely associated with the daily life and developmental history of the mountainous ethnic minorities here. Spanning the gentle yet occasionally flooded Dakrong River, the bridge not only plays an important transport connection role between villages but also serves as a testament to the effort to overcome difficulties and adapt to the harsh terrain conditions of the Truong Son region.

With a simple yet sturdy suspension design, Dakrong Suspension Bridge carries a rustic beauty, harmonizing with the surrounding wild mountain scenery. Today, besides its practical value, the bridge has also become a familiar stopover for tourists, where they can look out over the Dakrong mountains and rivers and clearly feel the simple, genuine pace of life in the mountainous region of Quang Tri.

Tram Tra Loc, in Hai Xuan commune, Hai Lang district, is a 10-hectare wetland area surrounded by primeval forests and rich vegetation, creating a cool green oasis amid the dry Lao wind. This is an ideal destination for those who love ecotourism, featuring a diverse ecosystem, fresh air, and peaceful scenery, completely different from the sweltering heat of the Lao wind. You can walk to explore the forest, take photos of beautiful nature, or organize a picnic with family and friends to enjoy a relaxing space. If visiting in the summer, don't forget to bring water and sunscreen to protect your health throughout the trip.

Quang Tri is not a place that overwhelms people at first sight, but it is a land that lingers in the hearts of visitors long after leaving. Each destination here is not merely a coordinate on the tourist map, but a piece of memory, a historical slice, and a fragment of the Vietnamese soul preserved through the years. If you want your journey to be more complete, listening to stories from local guides, and exploring deeper into every corner of this land with the guidance of those who know it best, do not miss the Quang Tri tours delicately designed by Sovaba.

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