Book a trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Xiamen with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD313

The airport is easily accessible to Xiamen's attractions and offers a variety of transportation options. Taxis provide the quickest route into the city, taking you from the airport terminal to downtown in under 30 minutes. Public buses and airport shuttles are also available outside the airport terminal, taking approximately 30 minutes to arrive at Lundu Port, Dongdu Port, or North Station.

Xiamen, a former port city on China's southeast coast, is a trendy city with European architecture, a packed cultural calendar, stunning subtropical gardens, and long stretches of sandy beaches, all of which are made better by the city's year-round warm weather.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Xiamen by taking a stroll along Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street. This lively street stretches for about 1.5 kilometres and is lined with an array of shops, boutiques, restaurants, and street food vendors. Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere and explore the diverse range of stores offering everything from fashion and accessories to local snacks and souvenirs. While you’re here, take the time to appreciate its charming architecture and historical buildings.

History buffs should visit the Hulishan Fortress, an impressive coastal defence fortress built in the late Qing Dynasty. This fortress, located on Xiamen's southeastern coast, is an impressive example of military architecture. Visitors can explore the fortress grounds, which include well-preserved cannons, barracks, tunnels, and observation towers. The fortress's main attraction is the magnificent ancient cannon known as the "General's Cannon," which is one of the world's largest. The fortress provides panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding coastal landscape.

Consider a day trip to Gulangyu Island, also known as Piano Island, a charming and picturesque location off the coast of Xiamen. This car-free island is well-known for its colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can wander its narrow streets, which are lined with historic mansions, art galleries, and small shops. Notable attractions on the island include the Shuzhuang Garden, which has beautiful landscapes and pavilions, and the Piano Museum, which houses a collection of vintage pianos. Gulangyu Island is also well-known for its beautiful beaches, which include Sunlight Rock Beach and Guangzhou Beach, where visitors can relax, swim, and participate in water sports. The island's distinct blend of architecture, natural beauty, and artistic ambience make it an enticing destination for those looking for a peaceful and cultural getaway.

Experience the ease of discovering convenient and luxurious hotels for you with Cathay Pacific. Pan Pacific Xiamen is a 5-star hotel that blends contemporary design with warm hospitality. The well-appointed rooms provide modern amenities as well as breathtaking views of the city or the sea. Guests can enjoy a diverse range of dining options, unwind at the spa, or use the hotel's fitness facilities. For those looking for longer stays, Somerset Software Park Xiamen is a serviced residence located in Xiamen's Software Park. The well-furnished apartments provide a comfortable and homely environment with convenient amenities and fully equipped kitchens. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities.

When visiting Xiamen, a coastal city in China known for its vibrant culinary scene, tourists should go on a gastronomic adventure and sample the local delicacies. Given Xiamen's coastal location, the first thing to try is seafood. From succulent prawns and crabs to various types of fish, visitors can enjoy delectable seafood dishes. Make sure to try the famous Xiamen-style seafood noodles, which include a rich broth, fresh seafood, and chewy noodles.

For another Xiamen-style approach to noodles, Fried Rice Vermicelli, also known as "Fujian Fried Vermicelli," is a beloved dish in the region. The vermicelli noodles are stir-fried with a variety of ingredients, including shrimp, pork, vegetables, and soy sauce. The end result is a fragrant and flavourful dish that demonstrates the skilful technique of the local chefs.

Before leaving Xiamen, make sure to try the oyster omelette, which is one of the city's most iconic street foods. This popular dish combines fresh oysters, eggs, and a starch-based batter. The omelette is pan-fried until crispy and served with a tangy sauce. The combination of textures and flavours makes it a must-try.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Xiamen.

• Currency: Chinese Yuan (¥, CNY). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V Types A, C, and I
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Language: Mandarin