An aerial view of the Cau Da Villa complex, also known as the Bao Dai Villas, in Nha Trang Ward, Khanh Hoa province, south-central Vietnam. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
The Cau Da Villa heritage site, also known as the Bao Dai Villas, was built by the French in 1923 and comprises five villas on Canh Long Mountain, about 6km south of downtown Nha Trang.
From 1940 to 1945, Emperor Bao Dai and Empress Nam Phuong frequently stayed here for vacations, giving the site its popular name, Bao Dai Villas.
Emperor Bao Dai, who reigned from 1926 to 1945, was the 13th and last emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) and the last emperor in Vietnam’s feudal history.
The exterior of Nghinh Phong Villa. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
Currently, local authorities have opened only two villas, Vong Nguyet and Nghinh Phong, to visitors.
The two villas have been renovated, with historical artifacts put on display, and have been open to visitors from Monday to Friday since April 2026.
The Bao Dai Villas retain their old-world charm, with French-style villas surrounded by mature greenery.
Many old structures have been cleaned and refurbished while retaining their original, solemn character.
From the balconies and paths along the hillside, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Nha Trang Bay, Cau Da Port, and the sea south of Nha Trang.
A direct view from the Bao Dai Villas toward Hon Tre Island. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
The reception area inside Vong Nguyet Villa, with a sofa and tea table by the window. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
A wooden bed in Emperor Bao Dai’s room. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
The first floor of Nghinh Phong Villa features wooden flooring, with portraits of Emperor Bao Dai and Empress Nam Phuong on the walls. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
A wooden staircase leading to the second floor, where Emperor Bao Dai once stayed. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
A seating set in the reception area of Nghinh Phong Villa. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
Many furnishings have aged over the years but retain their original, solemn character. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
After more than 10 years of closure, the heritage site has officially reopened to visitors. Photo: Nguyen Hoang
The Bao Dai Villas complex has been officially recognized by the Khanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee as a 'historical-cultural relic and scenic site.' Photo: Nguyen Hoang
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