History and Significance of Bảo Đại Villa (Biệt Thự Cầu Đá)
Bảo Đại Villa consists of five French Classical-style villas (Biệt thự) built in 1923. It served as a retreat where Vietnam's last Emperor Bảo Đại and Empress Nam Phương stayed during their visits to Nha Trang. Originally constructed in 1923 as an upscale villa complex for French experts, engineers, and oceanographers to reside and work, the site was designated as a national-level historical, cultural, and scenic heritage site in October 1995. However, it remained largely neglected without restoration for decades before reopening officially in April 2026 after more than a decade of closure.
The Five Villas and Their Characteristics
The five villas are named Xương Rồng, Bông Sứ, Bông Giấy, Phượng Vĩ, and Cây Bàng—all named after trees that once surrounded the area. Xương Rồng Villa is regarded as the most beautiful in terms of architecture and location.
Currently, visitors can tour the interiors of Bông Sứ (Thôn Bế) and Xương Rồng (Nguyễn Phương) villas. Both villas feature conference and guest rooms on the first floor, the Emperor and Empress's bedrooms on the second floor, and a rooftop space designed for enjoying the breeze and admiring the moon.
Location and Access
Bảo Đại Villa is located at the end of Trần Phú Street in Bạc Nha Trang district, Khánh Hòa Province, approximately 6.5 km southeast of Nha Trang city center. It sits atop Cảnh Long Hill.
Access Methods:
- Taxi/Ride-hailing apps: Book via Grab or similar apps from the city center; approximately 15–20 minutes
- Motorbike rental: For flexible travel, helmet is mandatory and motorbikes can access the site
- On foot: Steep hillside paths require comfortable walking shoes
Panoramic Views of Nha Trang Bay
Bảo Đại Villa perches on a hillside overlooking the sea. From the villa corridors, visitors can take in sweeping views of Cầu Đá Harbor and distant island silhouettes. Lầu Bảo Đại, located in the mountainous hillside area, features panoramic views toward Nha Trang Bay's beaches.
The villa offers stunning vistas of Nha Trang Bay's azure waters in perfect harmony with nature. Diverse shrubs, ornamental trees, and lush vegetation throughout the grounds provide visitors with a serene retreat. The coastal views are particularly exceptional during the dry season (January–August) on clear days.
Visitor Information and Guidelines
Admission and Operations
- Standard admission is approximately 21,000 VND (about $1.20). However, prices may change periodically, so please confirm current information locally before your visit.
- In November 2025, the Khánh Hòa Provincial People's Committee directed partial reinforcement and maintenance while awaiting comprehensive restoration. Therefore, viewing areas and operating hours may be adjusted.
What to Bring and Time Required
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential as the villas are situated on a hillside.
- Allow a minimum of 2–3 hours to fully appreciate the history and scenery.
- Bring sufficient water or purchase it on-site. Waterproof clothing is recommended when visiting during the rainy season (September–December).
Combined Tour with Ponagar Cham Towers
If planning a day tour of the southern Nha Trang coast, consider visiting Bảo Đại Villa together with Ponagar Cham Towers (a Hindu temple built by the Cham people around the 8th century). Both are essential destinations for gaining deeper insight into Nha Trang's history and culture. The two heritage sites are relatively close to the city center and can be efficiently visited together via taxi or motorbike.
Basic Etiquette and Photography Tips
As this is an important historical heritage site of Vietnam, please visit with respect for the buildings and gardens. Follow the instructions of staff upon entry and do not enter restricted areas. Experience programs such as dressing in Emperor and Empress attire for photos may be offered; please check local information before your visit.
Finally, we recommend confirming exact operating hours, current admission fees, and any special events through the Provincial Center for Cultural Heritage Conservation or the Nha Trang Tourist Information Center before your visit.
Latest Information
Admission fees, operating hours, transportation options, and tour inclusions may vary by season and operator, so please verify through official channels before booking.