The central region of Việt Nam is ranked sixth out of the top 10 must-visit destinations in Asia Pacific this year by Lonely Planet. VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY — Lonely Planet has ranked the central region of Việt Nam sixth out of the top 10 must-visit destinations in Asia Pacific this year.

International air links with many Asian cities provide easy access to attractions like the Golden Bridge at nearby Ba Na Hills in Đà Nẵng City.

"Exploring the caves and rugged river and jungle wilderness of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is essential for adventurous and intrepid travellers," Lonely Planet said.

Huế City’s vibrant cuisine showcases the city's imperial legacy, while in Hội An 's storied laneways, local dishes include fragrant Cao Lầu noodles.

Seafood stars in nearby Đà Nẵng City, located along the Hàn River, which is becoming one of Việt Nam's most exciting urban destinations, the travel magazine said.

The former imperial capital of Huế, which once witnessed the glories and collapse of the Nguyễn Dynasty (1802-1945), and the last royals to rule the country, is famous as a food paradise.

The caves, including the world’s largest, a rugged river, and the jungle wilderness of the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in Quảng Bình Province beckon the adventurous.

Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is referred to as the Kingdom of Caves. The 900-sq-km park, which UNESCO recognised as a global heritage site in 2003, has over 300 of them formed about 400 million years ago.—VNS