da nang travel map

Da Nang Itinerary: 15 Epic Things to Do + Expert Tips [2024]

January 3, 2024

Abbie Bevan

Are you looking for a perfect Da Nang Itinerary?

You have come to the right place! Whatever your travel preferences, how can you possibly decide what to do in Da Nang? Well, I’ve come up with the ultimate Da Nang itinerary to guarantee you the best experience!

In this article, you’ll not only find information on the best attractions in Da Nang. Here you will also find all the logistics to plan your visit to Danang , how to budget your trip, the best hotels to stay in Da Nang , and all tips to plan a perfect trip.

Da Nang is a popular coastal city that’s located along the East coast of Vietnam. It’s the fourth-largest city in the country and the largest city in Central Vietnam. Da Nang marks the halfway point between Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi , so it’s a great place to visit during your Vietnam Itinerary .

Home to French colonial buildings, delicious food, and pristine beaches, Danang has so much to offer. In fact, Da Nang’s coastline stretches for around 18.5 miles (30 km) so it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. Danang is also the perfect base, as you can visit a variety of destinations on a day trip. That includes Hoi An, Hue, My Son, and the Marble Mountains. So without any further ado, let’s dive into this awesome Danang itinerary.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you will love these articles:

• A Perfect 2-week Itinerary in Vietnam
• Vietnam Travel Tips: Everything You Need To Know Before Your Trip
• Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days: The Best One Week in Vietnam

15. Take a day trip to Hoi An

Read More: A Perfect 2 weeks Vietnam Itinerary

Da Nang Itinerary Overview

Before we jump into this Da Nang itinerary, let’s do a quick overview to help you plan your visit.

If you are wondering: “ How many days is enough in Da Nang, Vietnam?”

Although many people only choose to spend a day or two in Da Nang this city has so much to offer. For the best experience, you’ll want to spend at 3 days in Da Nang, and even more, if you’re using this place as a base to take some day trips.

What are the best day trips from Da Nang?

Both Hue and Hoi An can be visited on a day trip . So if you’re not planning to stay in those cities you can visit them from Da Nang. However, you’re going to want to spend a full day (or near enough) at each. If that’s the case, allow at least five days here so you’re not rushing around! That will give you plenty of time to visit all the places in this Da Nang itinerary!

What to book in advance for your Danang Itinerary?

I recommend o book some tours in advance. Da Nang is a popular destination in Vietnam for a reason. Many attractions will have long lines, and some need to be booked in advance.

✨ Da Nang and Hoi An Private Tour : I highly recommend booking this tour. You can explore Da Nang and Hoi An without a crowded tour bus.

✨ Marble Mountains & Son Tra Peninsula Tour from Da Nang : This is a must-do tour, where you will visit the Marble Mountains to see the pagoda and hidden caves and grottoes. Plus you will enjoy views of Vietnam’s coast and visit the Son Tra Peninsula.

✨ Ba Na Hills with Golden Bridge Private Tour : The Golden Bridge is the highlight of Danang, and you cannot miss it. with this tour, you will skip the lines and the crowds.

Top 15 Things To Do for your Da Nang Itinerary

1. admire lady buddha.

✨ Suggested Tour: Da Nang: Lady Buddha, Monkey Mountain, and Am Phu Cave Tour .

Lady Buddha is the tallest Buddha statue in the country so as you can imagine, it’s pretty impressive! The statue is located on the Son Tra Peninsula and is just 8.5 miles (14 km) from the city center of Da Nang.

Boasting a height of nearly 220 feet (67 meters) and a diameter of 114 feet (35 meters), its size is the equivalent of a 30-story building. Now, that’s something you don’t see every day! Due to its sea-facing location, you’ll get impressive views of the surrounding area. If it’s a clear day, you’ll even get striking views of Son Tra, The Marble Mountains, and Da Nang city.

This fantastic tour will take you to the Lady Buddha, as well as Monkey Mountain and Am Phu Cave. It includes lunch, hotel pick-up and drop-off, some entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide!

2. Head to Ba Na Hills

✨ Suggested Tour: Ba Na Hills with Golden Bridge Private Tour .

Ba Na Hills is a must for any Da Nang itinerary so don’t leave this place off your list. It’s part of the Sun World Amusement Group and is located on top of a mountain that sits around 4878 feet (1487 meters) above sea level. Aside from the mesmerizing views, there are plenty of fun activities to do up here.

For starters, this is where you’ll find the iconic ‘Golden Hands’ or Golden Bridge that’s taken over Instagram. There’s also an awesome cable car ride that you’ll take to the top, and you can visit the miniature French village too!

When it comes to visiting Ba Na Hills independently you can either catch a taxi or shuttle bus. Your other option is to take a tour and there are plenty of options! This Private tour includes an English-speaking guide that will make your trip truly memorable. Or, you’ve got this Ba Na hills tour that includes a buffet lunch.

3. Relax on My Khe Beach

If you’re heading to Da Nang for a beach vacation then you won’t be short of options. Some of the best beaches in the area include Non-Nuoc, Bac My An, Son Tra, and Thanh Binh. However, My Khe Beach is by far the most popular!

It’s a lot more developed than many of the other beaches in the area. This is due to American soldiers seeking some R&R here whilst fighting in the Vietnam-US War.

Boasting pristine white sands, crystal-clear (and warm) waters, and swaying palm trees, it’s the definition of tropical paradise. Whether you’re just looking to glimpse at its beauty, or you’d prefer to spend a few hours here, this isn’t a place you want to leave off your Da Nang itinerary!

You’ll generally find that most hotels are located in this area so you’ll have easy access to My Khe Beach. Unlike many of the beaches in Southeast Asia, it’s free to visit and extremely clean. If you don’t have the chance to visit Mui Ne , then this is the place to visit for some beach time.

4. Wander around the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture

Visiting the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture is one of the best things to do in the city. The museum was built in the early 1900s and is home to the largest collection of Cham sculptures and artwork on Earth. Now, that’s a pretty big reason to visit so don’t leave it off your Da Nang itinerary!

For those who don’t know, the Kingdom of Champa used to control South and Central Vietnam until 1697. In the late 15th century, the Champa empire declined and was eventually dissolved in 1832.

What remains can be found in this museum, and there are nearly 300 sculptural works to be seen here. This date back to between the 7th and 15th centuries so you’ll be admiring a part of Vietnam’s history.

Upon your visit to the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, you can purchase an English-language guidebook that will help to explain the importance of the sculptures.

5. Take a day trip to the Marble Mountains

✨ Suggested Tour: Marble Mountains – Hoi An Ancient Town Daily Ingroup Tour

The Marble Mountains are one of the most impressive sights you’ll see in Vietnam, let alone just Da Nang. Made up of five separate limestone mountains, this wonderful place is an easy day trip from the city. This makes it a must for any Da Nang itinerary!

The five Marble Mountains are named after the five elements (metal, water, wood, fire, and earth). They hold special significance to the people of Vietnam as they’re known to be a spiritual site!

To climb to the top, you’ll have to walk up a fair few stairs. However, the views from the top are certainly worth it. You can also explore the network of caves that are found underneath, with Huyen Khong being the largest of the caves. I wrote this whole article on how to explore Marble Mountain if you are interested in more information.

If you’d prefer not to visit on your own then you can take a tour of the Marble Mountains . You’ll get to explore this spectacular wonder, before heading to Hoi An Ancient Town. This way, all your transport is included and your dinner is too!

6. Walk over the Dragon bridge

No Danang itinerary is complete without walking over the city’s iconic Dragon Bridge. This is one of the coolest bridges you’ll ever see, as if you hadn’t guessed by the name – it depicts a flying dragon. The design of this dragon was inspired by the Ly dynasty and is an epic sight to see.

The Dragon Bridge spans across the Han River and is an impressive 2,185 feet (666 meters) long. There are six vehicle lanes and two lanes for pedestrians so it’s very wide, and it’s thought to have cost around $88 million which is crazy!

The incredible design isn’t the only thing that draws people to the Dragon Bridge. This bridge is home to 15,000 LED lights and is lit up at night time, which is one of the best times to visit. If you’re in Da Nang on a Saturday or Sunday, then you’re in for an even more magical experience. On the weekends at 9 pm, the bridge has a fire and water performance where the dragon breathes fire!

7. Admire the views from Sơn Trà Mountain

✨ Suggested Tour: Marble Mountains & Son Tra Peninsula Tour from Da Nang .

Son Tra Mountain is located out on the Son Tra Peninsula and is also known as Monkey Mountain. Often referred to as the ‘Green Lung of Da Nang’ this towering mountain is covered in the lush forest so it’s undeniably beautiful.

The Mountain is located at around 2,2800 feet (695 meters) above sea level so as you can imagine, the views from the top are rather impressive. Not only will you be treated to striking views of Da Nang, but you’ll get to admire the city’s breathtaking coastline too. During your time here, you’ll also want to leave some time free to visit some of the attractions including the iconic Lady Buddha.

This amazing 4-hour tour will not only take you to the Marble Mountains but you’ll get to explore the Son Tra Peninsula. Here, you’ll get to admire the impressive views, visit Lady Buddha, and marvel at Son Tra Linh Ung Pagoda!

8. Drive some of the iconic Hai Van Pass

✨ Suggested Tour: Your Incredible Scooter Adventure On Hai Van Pass .

The Hai Van Pass is one of the most scenic roads in Vietnam making it a must for any Da Nang itinerary. Known as the ‘Ocean Cloud Pass’, this road is a 21 km long pass that connects Hue and Da Nang. Aside from getting spectacular sea views, the pass also runs through the Annamite Range.

This road has become a popular tourist attraction and many people choose to hire a scooter so they can drive part of the pass. Due to a new road being built in 2005, you won’t experience much traffic along this route either which is always a bonus.

For those who are experienced in driving a scooter, you can head out on this Hai Van Pass adventure if you don’t fancy taking on the drive by yourself. Or, this tour also includes a private scooter driver if you’d prefer to sit in the back seat. Either way, this isn’t an experience you want to miss.

9. Try a cooking class

✨ Suggested Tour: Da Nang Home Cooking Class .

If there’s one thing Vietnam is known for it’s its delicious food, and Da Nang is no different! You’ll find endless restaurants in the city so there are lots of foodie options. Two of the most popular dishes are Banh Nam and Banh Bot Loc – both are a kind of rice dumpling cake.

However, to make the most of your foodie experience in Da Nang you’ll want to take a cooking class and there are plenty of options!

This unique home cooking class is a great choice as it’s run by a local family so offers a very authentic experience. During this class, you’ll get to visit a market to pick up fresh ingredients, and then you’ll cook four Vietnamese dishes. You’ll also get to try the local coffee!

One of the best things about this tour is that it’s limited to 9 people so you won’t have to worry about an overcrowded experience. If you’ve got the time, I’d recommend including a cooking class on your Da Nang itinerary!

10. Have some fun at Asia Park

Asia Park is another quirky theme park that’s owned by the Sun World Group. It’s located on the edge of the Han River and is known for its iconic attractions, cool rides, and diverse cuisine.

The park is split up into three main zones; a modern outdoor park, a cultural park, and the Sun Wheel – one of the city’s most popular attractions! It marks the entrance to Asia Park and is one of the highest Ferris wheels in the world at an impressive 377 feet (115 meters) high. The views from the top are incredible, and the wheel is also lit up at night.

Another popular area of this theme park is the Cultural Park which features replicas of cultural landmarks and historical sites from all over Asia! If you’re simply looking to have some fun, then there are a couple of rides to try out too.

The park is open from 3 pm – 10 pm as its primary focus is children. Just keep that in mind, because you won’t be able to visit in the morning or during midday which many people usually do with theme parks!

11. Take a day trip to My Son

✨ Suggested Tour: My Son Sanctuary Tour from Da Nang

There are plenty of day trip opportunities from this coastal city, but a visit to My Son is a must for any Da Nang itinerary! My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s situated within a rainforest.

Built between the 4th and 13th centuries CE, this place offers you the chance to explore Vietnam’s history. At around 1600 years old, these ruins show the influence of the Champa Kingdom and you’ll get to see this through the impressive tower temples that remain.

My Son actually used to have around 70 structures. These were mostly dedicated to the deities of Krishna, Shiva, and Vishnu. Unfortunately, most of the temples here were destroyed during the Vietnam War. However, some of the structures still remain to this day, and here you can find the complete guide on how to visit My Son .

This 5-hour My Son Tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Da Nang, transportation, and entrance fees. You’ll also have an English-speaking guide if you’re looking to learn more about this wonderful place!

12. Explore the Imperial City of Hue on a tour

✨ Suggested Tour: Imperial City, Hue: Tour from Hoi An and Da Nang .

Hue is another popular city in Vietnam, and many people choose to stay here for 2-3 days. However, if you’re short of time then you can always visit on a day trip!

You’ll find plenty of awesome things to do here like visiting the abandoned waterpark, exploring the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, and admiring Thien Mu Pagoda. You’ve also got the Mausoleum of Emperor Tu Duc and the Perfume River!

However, the city’s most famous attraction is the Imperial Citadel, or the ‘Imperial City’ as it’s also known. It’s an enclosed city within Hue itself and was once the imperial capital of the country during the Nguyễn dynasty. Inside, you’ll find so much to explore but don’t forget about the Purple Forbidden City!

This very cool 10-hour tour includes pick-up in Da Nang and transport to Hue, where you’ll get to see the very best of this Imperial City. Firstly, you’ll drive to Hue along the iconic Hai Van Pass. Then, you’ll visit some of the city’s most popular attractions like the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda.

13. Go snorkeling at Cham Island

✨ Suggested Tour: Cham Island: Underwater Walking & Snorkeling Tour

If you’re looking to escape the city then why not take a day trip out to the Cham Islands? This area is recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and is home to a wealth of marine life and an abundance of coral reefs.

This makes it the place to visit if you’re looking to snorkel or admire the area’s wildlife. Not only that, but this island is undeniably beautiful with pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation.

Although the Cham Islands are located off the coast of Hoi An, this snorkeling tour will pick you up in Da Nang. You’ll then be taken to the islands on a traditional Vietnamese boat. Whilst on the island, you can snorkel, dive, try underwater walking or simply relax in the hammocks. The choice is yours!

If you’ve got some extra time in Da Nang, then I’d definitely consider heading to this tropical paradise!

14. Admire the architecture of Da Nang Cathedral

Da Nang Cathedral is one of the most beautiful religious buildings you’ll come across in Vietnam. It was the only church built here during the French colonial period, so as you can imagine the architecture is unique. This cathedral has been around since 1924 and is in fantastic condition considering the subsequent wars that would follow.

The first thing you’ll notice about Da Nang Cathedral is that it’s pink! In fact, it gives off very similar vibes to Tan Dinh Church in Ho Chi Minh City ! Although the exterior is extremely impressive, make sure you head inside too if the church is open.

Boasting breathtaking stained glass windows, engraved motifs, and impressive statues that depict events from the Bible, there’s so much to see here. Even better, the cathedral is free to enter but you’ll want to research the mass times before your visit.

✨ Suggested Tour: Da Nang and Hoi An Private Tour .

If you’re not planning to stay in Hoi An then you should definitely include a day trip on your Danang itinerary! This city was once an ancient trading port that used to link China and Japan with the rest of Asia, and there’s still evidence of this port today. Considering this trading port dates back to the 15th and 19th centuries – that’s pretty impressive.

The most popular area to visit is the Old Quarter. Here, you’ll find ancient yellow buildings, colorful lanterns, and stone roads making it extremely charming. You can also head to one of the tailor shops, take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River, or visit the Precious Heritage Project!

If you’re looking for an organized trip then you should check out this private tour ! Not only will it show you around Da Nang, but you’ll also head to Hoi An. During the tour, you’ll get to explore the Ancient Town, hit some of the nearby stalls, and taste some delicious food.

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Best Accommodations for your Danang Itinerary

Vietnam as a whole is extremely affordable and that goes for Da Nang too. There are endless accommodation options in this coastal city, so no matter your budget you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs.

For the shoestring travelers out there, you can find accommodation for as little as $9. That’s often for a private room too! Mid-range accommodation tends to cost around $40-60, whilst luxury hotels are still extremely affordable. In fact, you can get a beautiful room in a 5* hotel for as little as $70 .

TOP OVERALL PICK : Sel de Mer Hotel & Suites

Rated: 9.0 Superb

This beautiful 5* hotel offers gorgeous suites, reasonable room rates, and fantastic facilities. During your stay here, you can even make use of the free salt sauna and steam bath. Don’t forget the striking sea views either!

BUDGET: Raon Danang Beach

Rated: 9.2 Superb

This is one of the best options for budget travelers as the rooms are spacious and beautiful, but above all extremely cheap! Not only is there an indoor swimming pool, but there’s a tour desk at the property where you can learn about the local activities.

MID RANGE: Sala Danang Beach Hotel

Boasting stunning sea views, a variety of room options, and a great location, you couldn’t ask for anything more! This hotel also has plenty of great facilities including a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, restaurant, and bar.

LUXURY: Meliá Vinpearl Danang Riverfront

Rated: 8.7 Fabulous

Aside from its stunning location, Meliá Vinpearl has a lot to offer. With four on-site restaurants, an outdoor pool, a rooftop bar, and a spa, this gorgeous hotel has all the facilities you could dream of. Some of the suites even offer striking river views!

How to Get Around Danang

First of all, you’ll need to reach the city. Now, you can either travel overland from some of the other cities or fly to Da Nang International Airport. If you opt for the latter, then you can either catch a taxi or bus into the city center.

If you’d prefer to have your transport organized in advance, you can book a private shuttle . This is especially handy after a long flight, and you won’t have to barter down your taxi price in the airport.

Once you’ve arrived in the city and found your accommodation, there are a couple of ways to get around the city. One of the most popular ways to get around is b y taxi or motorcycle taxi, but you may need to negotiate the price.

There are a couple of public bus routes you can use but this method of transport isn’t advanced, not compared to the likes of Hanoi or Hoi Chi Minh anyway. Lastly, you can rent a motorbike for a couple of days if you wish – this will be especially handy, as some of the sights in this article are located out of the city.

Best Time to Visit Da Nang, Vietnam

The best time to visit Da Nang is considered to be January-May as this is when the Dry Season takes place . The Dry Season actually lasts until August but in the months running up to it, temperatures can reach up to 104°F (40°C). Due to the intense heat and humidity, you’ll want to visit before this if possible.

Between January and May, the temperature fluctuates between 68-91°F (20-33°C) with higher temperatures being encountered during March and May. Before these months, the climate is relatively cold and dry and you won’t encounter too much rain either.

The Wet Season in Da Nang falls between September to December and is generally split into three phases. September is the month for typhoons, while October and November encounter the most rainfall. If you’re traveling at this time of year, then December is by far the best time to visit during the wet season!

Da Nang Itinerary Conclusion

If you’ve been wondering what to do in Da Nang, then hopefully this Danang Itinerary has given you a good idea of the attractions and activities on offer. This wonderful coastal city has so much to offer, and is a place that you need to include on your Vietnam itinerary!

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, hit up some natural wonders, or have some fun at a theme park, this city has it all. That makes it the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, family holiday, or adventure trip.

Not only are there plenty of things to do in Da Nang itself, but this city is a great base for exploring nearby destinations. No matter what you choose to do, you won’t run out of places to visit or things to do! Hopefully, this guide has given you some ideas for your Da Nang itinerary!

If you’ve enjoyed this guide then here are some others that you might find helpful:

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2 thoughts on “da nang itinerary: 15 epic things to do + expert tips [2024]”.

My daughter and I have four days in HCM and four days in Da Nang (early November). As I’m 79 I am not sure the tunnels would be that suitable! Any tips please. Last year we visited Hanoi and Sapa and Halong Bay and went to the all day Sunday market boardering China. Truly amazing. We loved Vietnam and its people so much and that is why we are doing a little of the Southern part.

Hey Jennie, it is so great you loved Vietnam so much that you are going back to explore more. I loved Vietnam too. I still recommend the tunnels as it is a very educational place to visit, even if you decide not to go inside the tunnel, which you won’t be missing anything, since you only get to see a small part of it. But you still can learn from the site and how the lived there during the war. I recommend you take the tour on the Mekong Delta, as you will also get to see many interesting sites, and the river market. Safe Travels,

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• Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)
• My Khe Beach
• Dragon Bridge (Cau Rong)
• Ba Na Hills
• Son Tra Mountain (Monkey Mountain)
• Linh Ung Pagoda
• Han River Bridge
• Museum of Cham Sculpture
• Da Nang Cathedral (Rooster Church)
• View all 15 places
• Things to do
• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map

Da Nang Tourist Map

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• About Da Nang Tourism
• Places To Visit in Da Nang
• Things to do in Da Nang
• How to Reach Da Nang
• Best time to Visit in Da Nang
• Da Nang Tourism History
• Food in Da Nang
• FAQS about Da Nang

Da Nang tourist map

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The Ultimate Da Nang Vietnam Itinerary: What To Do In Da Nang

Pham Huyen Trang

From vibrant markets to breathtaking landscapes, our 7-day Da Nang Vietnam itinerary is the ultimate guide to exploring this vibrant Vietnamese city.

Welcome to Da Nang , Vietnam! If you’re looking for a destination that offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and urban charm, then look no further than this coastal city. Da Nang has everything from stunning beaches and lush mountains to modern skyscrapers and ancient temples. With so much to see and do in Da Nang , it can be overwhelming trying to plan your itinerary. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with an exciting list of activities that will satisfy even the most adventurous traveler.

So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating cities.

Table of Contents

Da Nang Travel Guide – What To Do In Da Nang

Days in da nang – exploring the beaches.

Looking for the perfect sunbathing spots or beach activities? Da Nang has got you covered! With its stunning coastline stretching over 30 kilometers, this coastal city boasts some of Vietnam ‘s most beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking to laze in the sun or experience adrenaline-pumping water sports, Da Nang caters to all. One of the top beaches to explore is My Khe Beach – a long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters that will take your breath away.

You can spend hours lounging on the beach chairs while sipping refreshing coconut juice from vendors passing by. For those who are more adventurous, try out surfing or stand-up paddleboarding lessons offered at the nearby surf shops. With so many options available, it’s no wonder why visitors flock to these beaches year-round! And after a day full of fun under the sun, get ready for an exciting journey into ancient temples that will leave you in awe of their magnificent beauty.

Touring The Ancient Temples

As you stroll around Da Nang , it’s hard to miss the stunning pagodas that are scattered throughout the city. These ancient temples are a significant part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage and offer visitors an opportunity to learn about their rich history.

One of the most famous pagodas in Da Nang is the Linh Ung Pagoda, which sits atop Monkey Mountain and offers breathtaking views of the ocean below. This majestic temple complex features several intricate statues, including a giant white Buddha statue that stands 67 meters tall! If you’re lucky enough to visit during sunset or sunrise, you’ll be treated to a truly unforgettable experience as the sky changes colors over the sea.

Another must-visit temple is the Phap Lam Pagoda, located in the heart of downtown Da Nang. Built-in 1936, this beautiful temple boasts traditional Vietnamese architecture with colorful dragons adorning its rooftops. Take your time exploring each intricately designed room filled with relics and offerings left by devotees who come here daily to pay homage to Buddha.

After taking in all of these ancient temples’ beauty and serenity, it’s time to explore more of what Da Nang has to offer by taking a tour of the city. Whether you choose to go on foot or hop on a motorbike tour led by locals, there are many options available for travelers seeking adventure.

Be sure not to miss out on some of the best local street food spots while weaving through bustling marketplaces and quaint alleyways. The sights and sounds will leave you feeling exhilarated as you soak up everything this vibrant city has to offer!

Taking A Tour Of The City

After immersing yourself in the spiritual world of Da Nang’s ancient temples, it’s time to explore the city and discover its vibrant nightlife.

The streets come alive as soon as the sun sets, with lively bars and clubs dotting every corner. Head over to Bach Dang Street for a taste of the local party scene. This stretch along Han River is packed with neon-lit nightclubs that cater to all tastes.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, consider visiting one of Da Nang’s many museums. The Museum of Cham Sculpture houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Vietnam’s Champa Kingdom while the Ho Chi Minh Museum offers insights into the life and legacy of Vietnam’s revolutionary hero.

These are great places to visit if you want to take a break from the bustle of the city or learn more about Vietnamese history and culture. And when you’ve had your fill, head back out into the night – there’s always another adventure waiting just around the corner!

Speaking of which, have you considered going on a hike through Marble Mountains?

Hiking Through Marble Mountains

After soaking up the sun and sea air, it’s time to head inland and explore the stunning Marble Mountains. Hiking through these limestone peaks is a must-do activity when visiting Da Nang . As you ascend through the lush greenery, you’ll come across hidden caves that are just waiting to be explored.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are plenty of steps and uneven terrain along the way. Once you reach the top, take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Da Nang City and beyond.

After your hike, treat yourself to some well-deserved dining alfresco at one of the many cafes or restaurants located near the base of the mountains.

Don’t miss out on exploring these incredible caves:

• The Am Phu Cave: This cave is named after its depiction of Buddhist hell with intricate carvings representing sinners being punished for their wrongdoings.
• The Huyen Khong Cave: A serene space where visitors can experience peaceful meditation while admiring stunning natural rock formations.

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite hiking through Marble Mountains, it’s time to satisfy your hunger by indulging in some local cuisine at one of Da Nang ‘s famous markets.

From fresh seafood dishes to traditional Vietnamese street food, there’s something for everyone here. So why not immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of Vietnam by shopping in the markets?

Shopping In The Markets

As you wander through the bustling markets of Da Nang , it’s hard not to feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The vibrant colors of fresh produce and handmade crafts catch your eye at every turn, drawing you in with their unique charm.

If you’re looking for an authentic shopping experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, then these markets are the perfect place to start.

One of the highlights of shopping in these markets is trying out local crafts. From delicate jewelry made from seashells to intricately woven baskets, there is no shortage of unique souvenirs to take home with you. Don’t be afraid to bargain with vendors – it’s all part of the fun! Remember to approach negotiations with a friendly attitude and always be respectful of the seller. With a little bit of patience and some bargaining tips up your sleeve, you’ll soon find yourself walking away with a one-of-a-kind treasure.

And after all that shopping, what better way to refuel than by enjoying some delicious local cuisine? Follow your nose down winding alleyways until you stumble upon small family-run restaurants serving up steaming bowls of pho or fragrant plates of banh mi. Trust us when we say that this is one culinary adventure that should not be missed!

Enjoying Local Cuisine

When in Da Nang , it’s impossible not to indulge in the local cuisine. In fact, one of the most exciting experiences you can have here is tasting street food.

The streets are filled with vendors and stalls offering a wide range of delicacies that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Some of the must-try dishes include bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancake), mì quảng (turmeric noodles with pork and shrimp), and bún chả cá (rice vermicelli with grilled fish).

And if seafood is your thing, then sampling seafood at one of the many restaurants along My Khe Beach is highly recommended. From crab to prawns to squid, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to wash down all that deliciousness with some freshly squeezed sugarcane juice or a cold beer!

But don’t stop at just trying out the local cuisine on land – take things up a notch by visiting Son Tra Peninsula!

Visiting The Son Tra Peninsula

After indulging in the local cuisine, it’s time to explore more of what Da Nang has to offer. One must-visit destination is the Son Tra Peninsula, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and an opportunity to discover its wildlife. As you drive up the winding roads leading up to the peninsula, take in the stunning scenery around you. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of lush green forests and crystal-clear waters. But don’t just stop there – take some time to hike through the dense jungle, where you might encounter some rare species such as red-shanked douc langurs, one of Vietnam’s most endangered primates.

And if you’re lucky enough, catch a glimpse of playful monkeys swinging from tree to tree! After exploring nature’s wonders during daytime hours on this beautiful peninsula, spend your evenings discovering nightlife that will have something for everyone with bars and clubs catering to all tastes. With so much natural beauty surrounding Da Nang, visiting Son Tra Peninsula should definitely be on your itinerary.

Whether it’s hiking through the jungle or taking in a lively night out on town; this unique location provides visitors with unforgettable experiences that truly embody freedom and exploration.

Da Nang Vietnam Itinerary Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get to da nang from ho chi minh city.

Are you planning on traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang? Here are some tips for a smooth journey. First, consider taking a domestic flight as it’s the quickest and most convenient option. Airlines like VietJet or Vietnam Airlines offer daily flights at reasonable prices. Another option is to take an overnight train which can be an adventure in itself but also allows you to save on accommodation costs.

Once you arrive in Da Nang, make sure to check out the local markets where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs. Don’t forget to bargain with the vendors! As a travel writer for Da Nang, I highly recommend exploring this vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and rich history. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience that will fulfill your subconscious desire for freedom!

Are There Any Water Sports Available At The Beaches In Da Nang?

Looking for some adventure on your beach vacation? Look no further than Da Nang, Vietnam! With plenty of diving spots and jet skiing opportunities available, there’s no shortage of water sports to keep you entertained. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time beginner, Da Nang has something for everyone.

The crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating day out on the waves. So why not take advantage of all that this vibrant city has to offer and add some excitement to your itinerary with these amazing activities?

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Da Nang?

The best time to visit Da Nang, Vietnam is during the months of February to May. The weather forecasts indicate mild temperatures and low humidity, making it perfect for exploring the city’s attractions without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.

With fewer tourist crowds than in peak season from June to August, you can enjoy a more tranquil experience while still being able to soak up the local culture and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Da Nang offers endless possibilities for those yearning for freedom in their travels. So why not plan your next trip now?

Is It Safe To Hike Through Marble Mountains On My Own?

If you’re seeking an adventure in Da Nang, hiking through the Marble Mountains is a must-try experience. However, safety should always be your top priority when embarking on any solo hike. To ensure your security, it’s best to take note of some essential safety tips before starting your trek. Additionally, if you don’t have the necessary gear for hiking, don’t worry as there are rental shops nearby where you can easily rent what you need.

But remember, always make sure to confirm that everything is in good condition and fits well before heading out. So go ahead and explore this natural wonder while keeping yourself safe along the way!

Can I Rent A Motorbike To Explore Da Nang?

Renting a motorbike is an excellent way to explore Da Nang and the surrounding areas. There are plenty of rental companies in town, but make sure you meet all rental requirements before hitting the road. Fuel costs are relatively cheap, making it an affordable option for exploring the beautiful countryside of Vietnam. It’s important to remember that driving in Vietnam can be chaotic – so always wear a helmet and drive defensively.

The freedom of having your own transportation makes it easy to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations like hidden beaches or mountain villages where traditional ways of life still thrive. Renting a motorbike offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration while experiencing the beauty of Da Nang at your own pace.

So, there you have it – your ultimate Da Nang itinerary! With so much to see and do in this beautiful coastal city, you’ll never find yourself bored. From the stunning beaches with endless water sports opportunities to the historical sites such as Marble Mountains, every traveler will be satisfied.

If you’re coming from Ho Chi Minh City, there are plenty of transportation options available to get you to Da Nang. Whether by plane, bus, or train, getting here is easy and straightforward. And once you arrive, renting a motorbike is an excellent way to explore all that Da Nang has to offer at your own pace. The best time of year to visit Da Nang is from February through May when the weather is dry and sunny. However, if you don’t mind some rain, visiting during the off-season months can also mean fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation rates.

As a travel writer who’s visited Da Nang numerous times myself, I highly recommend adding this gem of Vietnam to your bucket list. Trust me; it’s a natural beauty and cultural significance that makes it worth the trip! So pack your bags and start planning for an adventure-filled vacation in Da Nang today!

Oh, you cannot miss out on the exhilarating journey that awaits you in Vietnam! Trust me, and it’s an adventure you won’t soon forget. Book a tour with us to ensure you don’t miss a stunning moment of this unforgettable experience. But hey, if you’re feeling bold and ready to plan your adventure, we’ve got you covered! Head to our website to devour our insider tips and map your dream trip. Don’t wait any longer. Dive into the mesmerizing natural beauty and fascinating cultural experiences that Vietnam offers – book the tour or start planning your trip today!

Hi guys, I am Trang. I am a Vietnamese who loves to travel and you could describe me as someone with a strong passion to explore the world, I seek adventure and experience, and always ready to discover new things. I have a passion for discovering new places and experiencing the cultures of different countries and peoples. I love meeting new people and sharing my experiences with others. Hope this will help you can find out exciting and challenging journeys, and finally, do not forget to enjoy moments of peace and relaxation.

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With broad beaches, fantastic street food, the fabled Hai Van Pass, and a growing collection of cafes, restaurants, and bars, it’s no wonder the residents of Da Nang sport some of the broadest smiles in the country. The warm sands of My Khe Beach sweep south from the mountainous Son Tra Peninsula. Da Nang hosts some of Vietnam's top luxury resorts, but much of the beach still belongs to the people who make it their playground, gym, and source of livelihood.

Click the image below for a 360-degree tour of marble mountains.

Top things to do in Da Nang

Enjoy the beach

Be sure to set the alarm clock early at least once on your stay. Along the shore, fishermen sell the day’s catch, football and volleyball matches spring up all around, and people jog, stroll or simply relax on the sand.

See the Son Tra Peninsula

The Son Tra Peninsula strikes out into the ocean, its densely forested hillsides are home to the endangered red-shanked douc langur -- one of the world’s most striking primates. Grab some binoculars, hire a motorbike, and head out for a day of wildlife spotting.

Learn about Cham culture

The Cham people once ruled much of Central Vietnam, and ruins of their temples have been excavated around Da Nang. The superb Cham Museum of Sculpture houses the largest collection of Cham sculpture in the world.

Dine on street food

Da Nang is a dream destination for foodies, with scores of seafront eateries and street food stalls. Mi Quang — a dish of rice noodles, pork, shrimp, quail eggs, peanuts and fresh herbs — is must-try delight.

Explore Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains is a collection of five outcrops topped with atmospheric pagodas, only 15 minutes from the city. Set out in the early morning to take a serene walk up stone steps, explore hidden caves, and admire ancient shrines.

Da Nang Weather

Da Nang is a great destination year-round. However, the best months to visit are from March to May and September to October, when the weather is warm. June to August sees little rain and the sea is clear and calm. The rainy season from November to February brings long rains and moody weather.

Da Nang Transport

The Da Nang International Airport has several daily connections to major cities in Vietnam. There are also a growing number of international connecting flights. Trains and buses pass through Da Nang, making it a convenient travel hub to explore the central region. In town, taxis are abundant, as well as ride-hailing apps. Popular trips from Da Nang are easily arranged, whether heading to Marble Mountain, Son Tra Peninsula, Hoi An, or Hai Van Pass, motorbike or car tours are readily available.

In this article:

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Pullman da nang beach resort, crowne plaza danang, fusion maia danang, vinpearl danang resort & villa, hyatt regency, novotel danang premier han river, olalani resort and condotel, grand mercure danang, premier village danang resort, naman retreat.

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Da Nang Guide: A Low-key City in Central Vietnam

Da Nang is one of the most popular cities for travel in Vietnam. Yet it manages to look low-key and calm despite its bustling tourism. Here’s everything to know about it – the Da Nang travel guide .

We stayed here for only two days and felt that there weren’t many things to do in Da Nang. But as we visited its beaches, strolled central Da Nang with a touch of nightlife, and passed the Dragon Bridge, we took it back. It wasn’t Ho Chi Minh City with all the pompous nightlife, but the laidback air was a sweet change.

Two days wasn’t sufficient for Da Nang. The places in the city as well as around it simply needed more time! Here goes my Da Nang Travel Guide :

*This post contains affiliate links. I only recommend products we trust and use.

Table of Contents

Da Nang Travel Guide: First Impressions

We landed in Da Nang one late night and got a cab to our hotel by the shore through the quiet streets. I’m not sure if it was the stay, but even the following day – the streets were calm and only a few tourists walked the streets. Mind you, we were in Hanoi earlier – the busy capital of Vietnam.

Later we realized most visitors were laid back here. Also unlike other cities, many visitors were Vietnamese locals themselves for Da Nang’s amazing beaches and the local street food markets.

Apart from the beaches, the nightlife, and the markets of Da Nang – it was the whole vibe itself where most hotels were lined up by the shore road with the smell of the sea not far away. Most places to visit when in Da Nang are mostly day trips away from the city. Some are Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountain, and Hoi An.

Da Nang Travel Guide: Common FAQs

FAQs usually come in at the last, but these are general things to know before you go:

How Many Days to Stay in Da Nang?

It’s best to stay 3-4 days in Da Nang. Most people, like us, stay only for 2 days and it is sufficient to cover the main attractions including a small trip to Hoi An as well. But it’s best to experience the cafes, and beaches, and even stay a day in Hoi An.

Two days is sufficient but it makes for a more rushed trip and tight itinerary. Also, with an extra day – it helps to cover the lesser-known places like Hue or go for an extra activity like snorkeling.

How to Get around

Book a rental scooter! This is the cheapest and most efficient way to commute to Da Nang. Make sure to bring along your driver’s license.

To visit Ba Na Hills , we got ourselves a scooter for 130,000 Dong per day and it was the best decision! The only downside is wearing an annoying raincoat when required. For long-distance commutes, chartered bus/car transfers are affordable.

This is great for solo travelers where you book direct transfers through travel websites and avoid the rental vehicle hustle. The last option is taxi services like Grab – an app similar to Uber. Gladly, it worked fine in Da Nang.

Da Nang Estimated Trip Budget

Da Nang Travel Guide : For budget travelers, the only high costs are the attractions themselves. Ba Na Hills ticket begins from 900,000 VND and the basket boat ride in Hoi An costs 100,000 – 200,000 VND. Other attractions that cost are the Marble Mountain and night boat rides (Hoi An). For food, expect to spend anywhere around 200,000 VND per person/day.

Transport costs : As most visiting places aren’t walkable distances, a rental scooter is the best option for solo travelers. We paid 130,000 VND /day for ours. The main places to visit in Da Nang are the beaches, Dragon Bridge, Lady Buddha, and Bach Dang Walking Street. There isn’t anything more. As the rest are walkable distances from these places, it makes a cab a viable option.

For long-distance transfers like Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, Hue, or My Son – I recommend using shuttle/private transfers from Da Nang as they’re safer and affordable too.

Where to Stay longer – Da Nang or Hoi An?

Da Nang is sweet. But I’d pick staying in Hoi An any day! However, it depends on whether you like a village experience with bicycle rides through farmlands (Hoi An) or a more built-up area with more nightlife, markets, and stays by the beach (Da Nang).

For eateries, both Hoi An and Da Nang have a variety of cafes to hop in for the evenings. While the beaches and Ba Na Hills are closer to Da Nang, one can explore Hoi An’s beautiful canals and candlelight lanterns floating on the Hoai River every night.

Though some say Hoi An is a one-day trip, you’ll see a lot of people residing for their entire vacations here. When you visit Da Nang, opt to stay a night in Hoi An. The place is anyhow only an hour’s drive away!

Accommodation in Da Nang

This is the best part of Da Nang, there are plentiful accommodations for all types of visitors. Unlike backpacker hostels in Hanoi or Saigon, even the backpackers’ hostels were more peaceful here. We stayed at a mid-ranged hotel as well as a budget hostel here. The hotel had the beach before us while the hostel was a more lively place!

Contrary to my usual perspective, I felt the luxury resorts in Da Nang had more unique experiences to offer and thus worth a shot – especially for couples and families. Here are the most popular hotels and my favorite handpicked hostel in Da Nang.

Luxury Resorts

InterContinental Sun Peninsula Resort : A 5-star hotel on the northeast end of the Da Nang with a 700-meter private beach, it’s one of the top luxury hotels in Vietnam with its Michelin-starred chef!

Mikazuki Resorts and Spa

Another 5-star hotel in Da Nang that offers a genuine Japanese experience with its theme and activities. The resort also features its own indoor and outdoor waterpark on its 13 hectares of land!

Hyatt Regency Da Nang Resort

Da Nang’s Hyatt boasts more of a homely touch by the coast with its tranquil nature while possessing comfortable rooms, living areas, private pools, and also Asia’s biggest kids club zone. It’s also a more affordable luxury option for families.

Pullman Da Nang Resort

This 5-stay resort is the closest to the city and it’s the ideal choice for families with comfortable facilities with reasonable rates. It’s best for couples and also has its own Kids’ club.

Cheap Backpacker Hostels

I didn’t expect it but Da Nang has quite a variety of backpacker hostels. Some are close to the city’s coast and others are far into the city. The best part is a modest hostel ranges only between 90,000 VND – 150,000 VND! For location, the beachside is preferable as the waters become accessible anytime.

Unlike quiet resorts, backpacker areas here burst with energy and life. Moreover, they’re located on streets with a variety of cafes, breakfast places, and bars.

For backpacker hostels, I recommend using HostelWorld.com to find dormitory-style hostels for dead-cheap rates. Here are some awesome hostels I handpicked for you:

• LightHouse Da Nang Hostel
• Seahorse Han Market Hostel
• City Hostel Da Nang
• Kon-Tiki Da Nang Hostel
• The Garden Capsule Hostel

Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam

With Ba Na Hills and Hoi An in this list of places to visit, consider this the Da Nang itinerary! So Help yourself with this list of Things to do in Da Nang:

1. Start with the Lady Buddha

The Lady Buddha in Da Nang- Son Tra Peninsula, fairly visible from the beach stretches (on the left), is a large 67-meter-high white statue.  It’s something like the Statue of Liberty in New York. However, there is a whole park, the Linh Ung Pagoda, and many other smaller statues and structures to see here.

It’s free to visit and as it isn’t far from most accommodations alongside the coast, make it your first stop to visit. Also, it opens at 6 a.m which should make it a sweet start to the day. It takes no more than an hour (or two for photo/history fanatics) to get around the Lady Buddha and Linh Ung Pagoda.

*Note: Don’t confuse the Linh Ung Pagoda, there are two of them in Da Nang – one with Lady Buddha and the other by Marble Mountain.

2. Check out the Beaches of Da Nang

Check out the beach if it’s still morning or keep it for the evening. Da Nang coastal side afternoon heat is enough to burn you. The best part about Da Nang is one whole side is a long stretch of beaches with clean sands, palm trees, and surfboard shops.

On the maps, the complete east side of Da Nang is beaches. Some differ more or less from the others. Some popular ones to name are My Khe Beach (closest to the city), Tien Sa Beach, Non-Nuoc Beach, and Bac My An Beach.

Keep in mind that most of these beaches run on the same coast. So they are more or less the same. The entire stretch is more known by the name – My Khe Beach. The lesser visited beaches are Nam O Beach and Tien Sa Beach on the north end of Da Nang.

While Tien Sa is another super-clean secluded beach with white sands, Nam O Beach stands as the most unique with vibrant green rocks on the shores!

Go Surfing!

Da Nang Travel Guide . Surfing is another option in Da Nang. It isn’t as popular, but some preferred beaches to surf are the My Khe Beach stretch and Nom O Point. According to Nomad Surfers, the best time to surf in Da Nang is September to March.

3. Don’t miss the Dragon Bridge’s evening show!

The Dragon Bridge is a must-visit in Da Nang. In fact, it’s one of the first things you see when you search for Da Nang. While it looks amazing in the daytime, the night view is unbeatable.

The whole 660-meter bridge is shaped just like a dragon with a head and tail on either end. The best part is the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) evenings (from 9 pm) when the dragon head starts breathing fire and water.

Watching from afar, we could see the vibrant lights dancing in harmony as the dragon breathed. Don’t look up the videos and give yourself a spoiler alert. I assure you, it’s worth it!

4. Explore the Bach Dang street

The Bach Dang Street on the west bank of the Han River with the Dragon Bridge in walkable distance, is also popular as a walking street. Lying in the heart of Da Nang, this ever-crowded street is known for hotels, street food markets, restaurants, and bars. It’s a pure commercial hub and even popular among the locals.

We stood here before the bridge and found the street alive with lights, music, and chit-chats down the pavements as far as our eyes could see. A ferry stood tied to the port to which people waited impatiently to enter. They carried no bags. Then I realized, it was a boat restaurant!

Even if you aren’t shopping, Bach Dang Walking Street is worth the experience for some amazing natural shots.

5. Have street food at Da Nang’s night market

Da Nang’s night market falls opposite Bach Dang Street (East side of Hans River). Also called the Chợ Đêm Sơn Trà (I can’t pronounce this either, but Google Maps helps), this is the cheery market with more tourists flocking in.

While it’s similar to most night markets with handicrafts, street delicacies, shopping stalls, and even large live shows – the main feature here is the paper lanterns. Some things to explore here are the variety of beer and local steamed seafood.

Some other popular night markets to check out in Da Nang are Helio Night Market and An Thuong Night Market.

6. Drive out to Marble Mountains

Da Nang Travel Guide – Marble Mountain lies between Da Nang and Hoi An. The reason it’s plural is because it’s a cluster of hills made of marble and limestone. Surrounding the entrance and the mountains are a range of marble shops that sell marble handicraft souvenirs to even life-size marble statues!

Weary of the ascend, we slowly climbed the steep stone steps up and curled around the peak. As we explored, there was so much to see here. The dark caves, dozens of Buddhist and Hindu idols (carved in Marble again), and even a tall pagoda!

My favorite was when we began trekking through a narrow dark cave feeling the smooth marblestone beneath us and then finally onto the peak of the mountain. We could see the shore and the city from here.

7. Go Shopping at Con Market

This is another must-visit in Da Nang. It’s not the shopping – Cho Con Market in Da Nang is the biggest market in the central region of Vietnam. It’s a super-busy commercial complex and is worth the experience for travelers.

Built back in 1940, the Cho Con Market complex today boasts its 2000 stalls over several buildings in and around the same area. Nevertheless, unlike the night market, the shopping stores close at 7:30 pm. So it’s best to visit early evening or late afternoon. It makes for an authentic experience of local markets, unlike touristy ones.

Da Nang Travel Guide protip : Some must-try local cuisines here are Banh Canh and Mi Quang(Vietnamese noodles), Banh Beo (water fern cakes from Central Vietnam), and Kem Bo (avocado ice cream)!

8. Stroll the Ba Na Hills

Visiting the Ba Na Hills is half or a one-day trip and it’s probably the most expensive part of Da Nang’s itinerary. But Ba Na Hills is where you get to see the world-famous Golden Bridge with godlike hands holding out the bridge.

When we visited SunWorld Ba Na Hills , we were disappointed that it was a theme park. A family theme park with roller coasters and fun fair games? Ugh. But then we realized there’s so much more to Ba Na Hills.

You see Ba Na Hills, also called the French Village, was built by the French during colonization as a “vacation spot”. Thus the French Village is today a vacation-cum-historical spot. Read more on my Ba Na Hills review .

9. Take a day trip to Hoi An

To describe Hoi An, it’s a sleepy yet touristy village with canals, paddy fields, and a variety of eateries, cafes, and bars. There are such clique eateries to discover. There’s even a whole community for Da Nang’s Gay Guide!

Nonetheless, the days go slow with rental cycles around the fields while the nights become magical with paper lanterns floating in the river here.

One can take a boat ride here through the vibrant lanterns at night. But the must-visit in Hoi An is the basket-boat ride. This is a slow ride through the narrow canals available in multiple parts of Hoi An.

Da Nang Travel Guide protip : From Da Nang, Hoi An is 30 km making for a day trip. But I highly recommend staying the night in Hoi An to experience this paper lantern ceremony along with the eateries and live music cafes.

10. Snorkel at  Cham Island

Snorkeling at Cham Island makes for an offbeat activity in Da Nang. Like Ba Na Hills, this is a 1-day trip as it’s 50 km from Da Nang. However, it is much closer to Hoi An. It takes a boat ride from Hoi An (Cua Dai Pier) to get to Cham Island.

Cham Island is again a small tourist destination. Though there aren’t any large hotels aside from the little homestays, you’ll find beaches, local seafood restaurants, and of course snorkeling. Snorkeling is a must-visit when on Cham Island.

For snorkeling, they take you to the clear parts of shallow waters with colorful coral life visibly rich underneath your eyes!

11. Go on a Day Trip to Hue

Along with the serene touches of nature and village life like Hoi An and Cham Island, Hue is most known for the Imperial City Citadel.

Held by the Nguyen Dynasty Emperors over 200 years ago, the Citadel is surrounded by moat and stone walls. Today, it houses palaces, shrines, and large gardens inside and is referred to as the Forbidden Purple City.

While history fanatics would stay longer, half a day around Hue should also be sufficient. The only downside is that it’s 100 km North of Da Nang (the complete opposite direction from Hoi An and Cham Island).

Manas Patil

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Home » Travel Guides » Vietnam » 25 Best Things To Do In Da Nang (Vietnam)

25 Best Things To Do In Da Nang (Vietnam)

Da Nang is not always included on travelers’ itineraries when they plan a trip to Vietnam, but this is such a shame as there is a huge amount to see and do here. This is the third largest city in Vietnam and offers visitors who make the trip here the perfect mix of modern and traditional touches. When you visit Da Nang you can enjoy one of the most innovative skylines in Vietnam as well as a serene riverside promenade and some gorges sandy beaches to boot.

One of the big draws of Da Nang is that it is located on the coast and is close to a long strip of coastal sand which means that you can enjoy the city while also getting out into the countryside. Water sports are popular here or you can also spend time hiking up mountains or visiting vibrant amusement parks and museums. As if that wasn’t enough, you will also find historic attractions here like temples and crumbling ruins.

Here are the best things to do in Da Nang …

1. Visit the Ba Na Hills

The Ba Na Hills are one of the premium attractions in Da Nang and people flock here from all over the region for the cooler climes that the elevation offers.

At the summit of the Ba Na Hills you will find spectacular vistas that stretch as far as the sea and you can take a cable car to the top if you are feeling lazy.

There is also the Ba Na Hill Fantasy Park which has a range of entertainment zones as well as a wax museum that has models of famous celebrities.

Recommended tour : Full-Day Ba Na Hills and Linh Ung Pagoda Tour from Da Nang

2. Have a coffee at Cong Caphe

If you travel to Hanoi you will find a huge number of Communist-themed coffee shops and Cong Caphe is Da Nang’s answer to this trend.

It is also one of the best places to get a cup of coffee in the city and is located next to the river which affords you pretty views over the water.

If you are looking for one of their signature drinks then try the coffee which is mixed with yoghurt.

3. Sunbathe on My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Vietnam and it stretches for some 20 miles along the eastern coastline of Da Nang.

There are a huge range of activities to enjoy such as water sports and you can go jet skiing or even surfing.

If you want to relax then you can sunbathe on the golden sand or go snorkeling, and you will also find a wealth of delicious seafood restaurants lining the beach.

4. Climb the Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains is actually the name for five separate hills made of limestone that are also mixed with smooth marble.

The mountains sit some 9 kilometers outside of Da Nang and are known for their Buddhist pagodas and shrines which are dedicated to various local gods.

You can walk up the hills using a long set of steps cut into the mountainside and from here you will be able to take in all the best views over the countryside.

Suggested tour : From Da Nang: Marble Mountain and Son Tra Peninsula

5. Watch the show at Dragon Bridge

The main attraction in the center of Da Nang is undoubtedly the large Dragon Bridge which stretches over an ominous 666 meters and has the claim to fame of being the longest bridge of its kind in the country.

As the name suggests, the bridge was built in the shape of a dragon which is meant to represent good luck in Vietnam.

Every Saturday and Sunday at 9 pm you can walk down to the waterfront and watch a show which lights up the bridge and the dragon even spits out fire and water from its mouth.

6. Visit the Cham Museum

Many visitors don’t realize that Da Nang has a huge number of interesting museums and the Cham Museum will tell you everything that you want to know about the Cham people in Vietnam.

This museum also has the claim to fame of being the only Cham museum in the world and it first opened its doors in 1915 at the time of the French colonial period.

On a visit here you will find a number of amazing exhibits including terracotta and stone pieces that date from the 7th to the 15th centuries.

7. Enjoy the views at the Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is one of the top attractions in this part of Vietnam and rests at around 500 meters above sea level.

This makes it the highest pass of its kind in Vietnam and if you want to get panoramic views of Da Nang then this is the place to come.

There are a number of historical markers along the way as you navigate the pass including a fort that would have been built during the French colonial period which was also used as a bunker during the Vietnam War by American and South Vietnamese troops.

Suggested tour : Full-Day Hai Van Pass & Lang Co Beach from Da Nang

8. Travel to Son Tra Mountain

Son Tra Mountain translates as Monkey Mountain in English and this is part of a spectacular national park in Da Nang that is located at around 700 meters above sea level.

This area is also called the Son Tra Peninsula and you will find winding roads here which lend themselves to hiking as well as cycling.

The mountain is so named as it is the home of a rare species of monkey called the red face monkey.

Available tour : Son Tra Peninsula by Motorbike

9. Play a game of golf

Many people probably don’t realize that Da Nang has been making a name for itself in recent years as a result of its idyllic golf courses.

There are four main courses in the city and one of these is the Da Nang Golf Club which first opened in 2010 and has been voted one of the 15 best new golf courses in the world.

As such you can fit in a game of golf when you are in the city and enjoy lush rolling greens which extend onto white sandy beaches.

10. Check out the Linh Ung Pagoda

The Linh Ung Pagoda is located at Son Tra Mountain and is one of the most famous attractions here.

The pagoda is known for having the tallest statues of the Goddess of Mercy in the region which was built on top of a platform in the shape of a blooming lotus.

You will also find some 21 statues of the Buddha here which are in turn located inside a larger 67 meter tall Buddha figure.

Suggested tour : Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda Half-Day Tour

11. Relax at Non Nuoc Beach

If you want to get outside the city then head to Non Nuoc Beach which is around a 20 minute drive away from the center of Da Nang.

The beach is regularly voted one of the most beautiful in the world and you will find white powdery sand here that backs on to azure waters.

Some of the main attractions here include surfing or jet skiing and you can also spend time dining at the many seafood restaurants here.

The beach sprawls for 5 kilometers along the coast and leads you all the way to the base of the Marble Mountains.

12. Admire the Phap Lam Pagoda

The Phap Lam Pagoda is located inside a building that unfolds over two floors and is set amidst lush gardens that are dotted with sculptures of the Buddha.

The pagoda is known for its relaxing and serene setting and you will find a central courtyard with a statue of the Buddha that is 1.1 meters high.

Here are also additional statues of the Goddess of Mercury as well as Dai The Chi Bodhisattva.

Also of note are the food carts and restaurants around the pagoda which sell delicious vegetarian food.

13. Visit the Da Nang Cathedral

The Da Nang Cathedral is one of the most famous catholic churches in Vietnam thanks to its amazing design features.

The cathedral has a signature pink edifice as well as colorful stained-glass windows and a large bell tower which has an iconic weathervane at the top in the shape of a rooster.

The cathedral dates from 1923 and it also goes by its local nickname which is Con Ga or Rooster Church.

14. Take a trip to the Cham Islands

If you are looking to get out of the center of Da Nang then consider a trip to the beautiful neighboring Cham Islands.

Here you will find some pretty coral reefs and a plethora of colorful fish and you can swim and snorkel here to take in the underwater delights firsthand.

The Cham Islands are located around an hour away from Da Nang by boat so you can easily visit for the day or there is also the choice to camp here overnight.

Available tour : Cham Island: Snorkeling Tour

15. Go shopping at Con Market

Con Market may not be a promising name for a shopping area but you will find some 2,000 shops here which sell everything you could ever need in Da Nang.

These include clothes and footwear as well as local handicrafts, so this is a great place to pick up some gifts or souvenirs.

This shopping area has been here since the 1940s and it was renovated in 1984 to its present form.

Many people come here to shop and also sample the street food from the various carts and cafes in the area.

Available tour : Da Nang – Shopping Tour

16. Stroll along the sand at Pham Van Dong Beach

Another one of Da Nang’s famous beaches is Pham Van Dong Beach.

This beach has been the location for a number of film shoots which tells you everything you need to know about how beautiful it is.

The sand here is known for being incredibly soft and one of the best things to do here is go for a barefoot walk along the pristine shore line.

You will also find resorts and restaurants in the area and you can swim in the gentle waters.

17. Learn some history at the Fifth Military Division Museum

The Fifth Military Division Museum in Da Nang is dedicated to explaining some of the brutal history of Vietnam that occurred during the Vietnam War.

The museum has a number of antiques from the war as well as other memorabilia such as letters and photographs that were taken by the Fifth Division soldiers.

The museum is huge and is laid out in four main sections where you can see signature pieces such as a Cessna O-1 Bird and an A-37 Dragonfly.

18. Travel to My Son Sanctuary

My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is made up of a collection of ruins which would have formed the base of the fearsome Champa Kingdom.

The architecture here spans eight centuries and you will see ornate carvings as well as impressive stone pillars and buildings.

Many people come here as part of a guided tour where you can learn all about the history of this amazing monument.

Recommended tour : From Da Nang: My Son Sanctuary Tour

19. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum

The Ho Chi Minh Museum is set amidst lush ground in Da Nang and offers you an insight into the leader of Vietnam.

Some of the galleries are made up of collections of Soviet and Chinese weapons which will fill you in on some of the military history of Vietnam.

Note however that there are several buildings and you will also find a model of Ho Chi Minh’s house in Hanoi here as well as the adjoining museum exhibition areas.

20. Check out the Han River Bridge

The Han River Bridge is one of four main bridges in Da Nang and is also a top attraction for visitors to the city.

This is a cable supported swing bridge and was the first of its kind in the region.

Visitors flock here at night as the bridge is fully illuminated by colorful changing lights and if you stop here around midnight you can watch an amazing spectacle as the bridge swings on its axis and open up to allow ships to pass by.

If you want to check out the bridge from a different vantage point then you can take a river cruise along the river.

21. Visit Asia Park

If you fancy getting out of Da Nang then you can travel to Asia Park which is located on the coast and is a large amusement and cultural facility.

The park is made up of three zones including an Amusement Park, a Cultural Park and a Central Zone.

One of the main attractions here is the large Sun Wheel which soars to a height of 115 meters and is a large clock tower that tells you the time zones across a range of countries.

You can also enjoy rides, shows and other adventure activities here.

22. Go surfing

If you want to ride the waves on a surf board in Vietnam then Da Nang is the place to do it.

The surf off the coast of Da Nang is perfect for both beginner and advanced surfers.

In theory you can surf all year round here, although the main surf season is from November to March.

Some of the best spots to rent a surfboard are China Beach and My Khe Beach.

You will even find surf schools here if you are new to the sport.

23. Have a drink at Waterfront

Anyone looking for the best river views in Da Nang needs to head to Waterfront which is a riverfront lounge and restaurant.

Here you will be able to have a cool drink as you take in the sunset in Da Nang and you can also enjoy a comprehensive restaurant menu which includes both local and international plates.

This is also a good spot for anyone who is looking for vegetarian bites in Da Nang.

24. Visit the Cao Dai Temple

The Cao Dai Temple in Da Nang is the largest of its kind in Vietnam and is said to have some 50,000 worshippers.

Here you will find a sign that says that ‘All Religions Have the Same Reason’ and you will find references to important figures from the main five world religions.

These include statues of Jesus, Mohammed, Laotse, Buddha and Confucius and there is also a huge altar which is fitted with a large globe known as the Divine Eye.

25. Party at Sky 36

Da Nang is not particularly well known for its nightlife but f you want to party the night away then you may want to consider a trip to Sky 36. This is a new rooftop bar which has gorgeous panoramic view over the pretty Da Nang River and the illuminated bridges for which the city is so famous.

There is a smart-casual dress code here and you can sample some delicious cocktails as well as try some toothsome bar snacks.

Certainly if you are looking for a watering hole with the best views of the city, then this is it.

25 Best Things To Do In Da Nang (Vietnam):

• Visit the Ba Na Hills
• Have a coffee at Cong Caphe
• Sunbathe on My Khe Beach
• Climb the Marble Mountains
• Watch the show at Dragon Bridge
• Visit the Cham Museum
• Enjoy the views at the Hai Van Pass
• Travel to Son Tra Mountain
• Play a game of golf
• Check out the Linh Ung Pagoda
• Relax at Non Nuoc Beach
• Admire the Phap Lam Pagoda
• Visit the Da Nang Cathedral
• Take a trip to the Cham Islands
• Go shopping at Con Market
• Stroll along the sand at Pham Van Dong Beach
• Learn some history at the Fifth Military Division Museum
• Travel to My Son Sanctuary
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Check out the Han River Bridge
• Visit Asia Park
• Have a drink at Waterfront
• Visit the Cao Dai Temple
• Party at Sky 36

Da Nang, Vietnam – Detailed Guide with Travel Tips

Da Nang is an incredibly fascinating city in Central Vietnam that attracts many tourists. If you are one of them and now are planning your trip to Da Nang in Vietnam, this detailed  Da Nang travel guide with travel tips will help you discover the resort city and its best things to do.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang (sometimes written Danang) is a city located 776 km south of Hanoi and 961 km north of Ho Chi Minh City . Due to the city’s prime location, this resort city is the center as well as the gateway of Central Vietnam that is extremely important in terms of tourism.

Da Nang is surrounded by three worldwide famous heritage sites such as Hue Imperial Capital , My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Ancient Town . The city and its surroundings are captivating visitors with many beautiful landscapes such as Ba Na Hills , Son Tra Peninsula, and Marble Mountains  making the city an ideal destination for your trip.

Things to Do in Da Nang

The most important tourist attractions in Da Nang that should not be missed are listed below.

My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is ranked as one of the 20 most beautiful beaches on the planet. My Khe Beach attracts many tourists by its pristine beauty, fine white sand, gentle waves in ta very cool and fresh atmosphere.

My Khe Beach is also a popular area to stay in the city as there are plenty of accommodations offering spectacular sea views. To find the best ones, explore the list of the best My Khe Beach hotels and resorts .

Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains , also known as Non Nuoc Mountains, consist of 5 picturesque limestone mountains on the coastal sand. At the foot of the mountain, there is Non Nuoc stone carving village. It produces marble handicrafts famous throughout the country. You can book a hotel in Ngu Hanh Son District to conveniently visit this place.

Marble Mountains can be easily visited on this Lady Buddha, Marble Mountains, and Am Phu Cave Tour .

Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is majestic entertainment area located at an altitude of 1,487 m above the sea level, where the climate is cool all year round. It can be said that Ba Na Hills is a miniature Europe right at the top of the mountain. Highlights of Ba Na Hills are Golden Bridge held by giant hands, romantic French Village, Fantasy Park, Debay Cellar, Wax Museum, and Flower Garden. You need to take a cable car up to the top of Ba Na Mountain for exploring all these sights.

While you can visit this popular tourist attraction independently by getting your Ba Na Hills tickets and private or shared transfer, the most convenient way for visiting Ba Na Hills is joining a Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills Tour .

Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula is considered as the giant green lung of the city because of the rich nature, covering an area of more than 4,400 hectares. This is also the home of many species of animals with even 22 rare species listed in the red book. Son Tra Peninsula is also famous for being home to Linh Ung Pagoda with the largest statue of Guan Yin Buddha in the country. InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort  is the only hotel located in this area.

Han River Bridge, Da Nang

Han River Bridge is a symbol of the city and also the first rotating bridge in Vietnam. Every day, the middle of the bridge rotates 90 degrees around the axis at 0:30 to pave the way for large ships to pass, and returns to the same way at 3:30.

Dragon Bridge, Da Nang

Dragon Bridge is shaped like a golden dragon facing the East Sea, connecting the road from the airport to My Khe and Non Nuoc beaches. The "dragon" on the bridge has the ability to spit fire and spray water at 21:00 on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

The most important  bridges of the city can be visited during Half-Day Museums and Bridges Tour .

Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is a natural boundary between provinces of Thua Thien - Hue and Da Nang. Hai Van Quan reaches an altitude of 500 m above sea level and from there you can see the majestic natural scenery of mountains, clouds and oceans.

To fully enjoy the ride via Hai Van Pass, get on Hai Van Pass Private Guided Tour by Motorbike .

My Son Sanctuary

My Son was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1999 and is a major tourist attraction in the region. My Son is the Hindu holy place of the Kingdom of Champa.

You can visit this historical site by simply getting your My Son Sanctuary Tickets and arranging transportation. However, it's much easier and often more cost-effective to simply join one of many tours that can bring you to visit this place. This My Son Sanctuary Day Tour  brings you to explore not only the greatest archaeological sites of My Son but also the ancient town of Hoi An.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Although not in the territory of Da Nang city, Hoi An is still one of top destinations to visit when coming to the area. Hoi An is very different from a vibrant and busy Da Nang. The town is a combination of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese and even French influences so it is a unique and beautiful place.

Hoi An is famous for its brightly colored yellow buildings, colorful lanterns, historical sites and good traditional food. This town is even more beautiful and magical when it gets darker, as the streets light up with colorful lanterns everywhere.

Other Da Nang Attractions

Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park : The park covering 60 hectares of majestic forest, cool streams, and various mineral-rich hot springs.

Museum of Cham Sculpture: The museum preserving relics of the ancient Kingdom of Champa.

Da Nang Downtown (Formed Asia Park) : The largest entertainment area in the city. The park is divided into 3 main areas including Asian amusement park, Sun Wheel and cultural park.

Linh Ung Pagoda: The city has 3 pagodas of the same name Linh Ung, located in 3 sacred places, such as Son Tra Peninsula, Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills.

Thuan Phuoc Bridge: Vietnam’s longest hammock bridge which is 1,850-meter long.

Pham Van Dong Beach: The public beach built with a budget of 12 billion VND, which is a place to attract locals and tourists for swimming, picnic and snorkeling.

Bac My An Beach: The beach in Ngu Hanh Son District with fine white sand and clear blue water.

Non Nuoc Beach: 5 km long beach located nearby Marble Mountains, attracting tourists with a gently sloping white sand beach and smooth waves ideal for swimming.

Cu Lao Cham : Also known as Cham Islands, which is a group of 8 small islands with the peaceful beauty of nature.

Discover more tourist attractions in the city  with detailed information and updated ticket prices here: Top Tourist Attractions in Da Nang .

Tasting Local Food in Da Nang

Besides the beautiful scenery, the city also has a lot of delicious and famous dishes that are waiting for you to discover. When coming here, you definitely have to try the following dishes:

Seafood : Fresh seafood, such as squids, assorted snails, shrimps, crabs, and others, is a popular food in the city and there are many restaurants serving it.

Mi Quang: The famous rice noodle dish from central Vietnam in Quang Nam province. The traditional one is Quang noodle with shrimps, chicken, egg or pork served with grilled rice paper and roasted peanuts.

Rice paper roll : This is a dish with a unique combination of boiled meat served with vegetables and fish sauce.

Banh Xeo : Vietnamese yellow crispy crepe filled with shrimps and crispy bean sprouts.

Shopping for souvenirs in Da Nang

If you want to buy local specialties to bring as gifts for your family and friends, you can easily find lots of them at supermarkets, Han Market, or Con Market. The most popular souvenirs from Da Nang are as follows:

• My Khe Seaweed
• Nam O Fish Sauce
• Da Bo Cha (city's beef rolls)
• Dried Squids
• Fine arts made of stone from Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village

Where to Stay in Da Nang

Whether you are traveling for relaxing, exploring or experiencing, there are many types of accommodation for you to choose during your trip to discover the beautiful resort city.

One of the hardest parts about traveling is choosing where to stay , so checking our guide to Da Nang best areas  before booking the room might save your time.

The best value for money Da Nang hotels in different price ranges are listed below.

Budget Hotels

Chill Box Premier- Beach Hotel

Minh Boutique

Bella Boutique Villa Apartment

Mid-Range Hotels

Salmalia Boutique Hotel & Spa

Haka Boutique Hotel

Aria Grand Hotel & Spa

Luxury Hotels

Stella Maris Beach Danang

Fusion Suites Da Nang

Pullman Danang Beach Resort

If your trip budget allows you, consider staying at one of the best luxury hotels in Da Nang , to have a memorable vacation in this beautiful coastal city.

For the most exceptional experience, choose to stay at one of Da Nang villas with private pool .

How to get to Da Nang

Da Nang is a transportation hub of the central coast of Vietnam so reaching the city by plane, train or bus is extremely convenient.

Flights to Da Nang

Flying is the most popular and time-saving way for getting to the city. Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is located within the city, around 3 km from the city center.

There are frequent flights from  Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City . Daily domestic flights are also operated between Da Nang and Dalat, Haiphong, and Nha Trang by domestic airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar and VietJetAir. International flights are available from Guangzhou, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Siem Reap, Singapore, Taipei and Tokyo.

Flying is now relatively cheap (except holidays). During the high season, ticket prices are rising quite fast, so, if you plan to travel to Da Nang, you should book your flight tickets early to get the best price. For the flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, ticket prices normally range from 400,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND, depending on the airline. It takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the resort city.

Flight tickets on the most popular routes can be booked online here:

Flights from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang

Flights from Hanoi to Da Nang

After arriving at DAD Airport, you can continue your trip to the city by bus, motorbike or taxi. The most convenient way for getting from the airport to your hotel, is using a Private Transfer to Da Nang Hotels or Hoi An City .

Train to Da Nang

Da Nang has a train station right in the city center and you will find express trains running here from everywhere in Vietnam, so traveling by train is very convenient. Especially if you are car sick, this is a great mean of transportation. When traveling by train, you get a chance to enjoy the scenery on the way and you can admire magnificent views of mountains and ocean when passing through Hai Van Pass.

Train tickets are also reasonably priced but you should book train tickets in advance to get the best price and your desired seats. Train ticket prices for a trip from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City range from 300,000 VND to 1,200,000 VND, depending on the train type and seat type. The main downside of traveling by train is the length of journey as it takes about 15 - 16 hours to travel from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Current train departure schedule  can be found and train tickets can be booked online here:

Train from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang

Train from Hanoi to Da Nang

Bus to Da Nang

Da Nang Bus Station is located about 2 kilometers from the city center so traveling by bus is also convenient. You will likely arrive at this station if you are traveling on a sleeper bus from cities further away like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Nha Trang.

The trip by bus from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City takes about 16-19 hours, which is longer than traveling by other means of transportation, but it is the most economical way as bus fare for such trip is only from 250,000 VND to 500,000 VND.

Current  bus departure schedule for the most popular routes can be found and  bus tickets can be booked online here:

Bus from Hoi An to Da Nang

Bus from Hue to Da Nang

Bus from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang

Bus from Hanoi to Da Nang

Bus from Nha Trang to Da Nang

By Motorbike

You can travel to Da Nang by motorbike from neighboring provinces, like Hue. However, you should pay big attention to safety when traveling this way, as road accidents are not uncommon in Vietnam.

Traveling from Da Nang to Other Cities

Da Nang is the largest transportation hub in Central Vietnam so flying there and traveling to other cities in the surrounding provinces is a really popular way to explore this region.

Da Nang to Hue

There are many transportation options for getting to Hue so you just need to choose the way that is the most suitable to your needs. Various ways of traveling between the cities are briefly described here: How to get from Da Nang to Hue

Da Nang to Hoi An

Hoi An is located not far away, so you can reach the ancient town within 30-40 minutes. Various transportation options for getting to Hoi An are detailed here: How to get from Da Nang to Hoi An .

Other Transportation Options

More transportation options for a trip can be found and transport tickets can be booked by this search form.

Transportation within Da Nang

The city and its surroundings can be explored by joining one of the city tours or using different means of transportation, including the affordable public bus.

If you are visiting the city alone or in a small group with elder people or kids, taking a tour to visit main sights is a worthwhile option to consider. Traveling with a tour saves your money and time. The tour normally provides you everything you need for the trip like a shuttle bus, guide, entrance tickets at all tourist attractions and lunch. There are many  interesting tours that are reasonably priced, such as this Da Nang City & My Khe Beach Private Day Tour . Tours are especially convenient if you are looking to explore not only the city itself but also its surroundings.

By Private Transfer

When taking a private transfer , you don’t need to worry about transportation and have more time for exploring all the attractions around Da Nang. Pre-booked private transfer can be significantly cheaper than taking a random taxi. However, you need to book it in advance for the specific time that makes everything a bit more complicated.

You can pre-book a Private Car Charter and create your own itinerary to explore the city and its surroundings.

Taxi is an appropriate option for short distance traveling in groups. You just let the driver know your destination and they will take you there. However, Da Nang taxi fare seems to be about 1.5 times higher than in other provinces. There are many taxi companies and some of the most reliable are Mai Linh, Vinasun, Tien Sa.

By Public Bus

Travelling by Da Nang bus is possible since there are many bus routes in the city. Travelling around the city by public bus is not a very convenient option, if you want to go to the destinations far from main routes. Another inconvenience is that buses in the area stop operating relatively early.

By Shuttle Bus

Another convenient option for solo travelers and small groups, who want to save money, is using shuttle bus services . Shuttle buses connect the airport and other attractions, such as Ba Na Hills, with Da Nang City hotels.

Ba Na Hills shuttle bus can be booked online here: Shuttle Bus to Ba Na Hills Golden Bridge .

My Son shuttle bus can be booked online here:  Shuttle Bus Transfer to My Son .

Motorbike is the easiest and affordable mean of transportation for moving around the city. Motorbike rental prices range from 80,000 VND to 15,000 VND per day, depending on the type of motorbike and the rental period (multi-day rentals will be even cheaper). Normally you can rent a motorbike right at the hotel, homestay or hostel you are staying.

Best Time to Travel to Da Nang

Da Nang is a region with typical tropical monsoon climate and relatively high temperature. The average temperature here is about 28-30 degrees Celsius. The region has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season (August - December) and dry season (January - July).

The period from February to August is considered to be the best time to travel to Da Nang because the weather is pleasant, temperatures are not too high and less rain is expected. This time of the year offers favorable conditions for fun activities and sightseeing. However, this is the time of the year when the resort city gets crowded, so you need to plan your trip and make your bookings in advance. The low season in Da Nang is from September to the end of March as it is raining quite often, so fewer tourists are seen around.

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Download full size: Map of Da Nang Simple | Da Nang Map | Da Nang Province

Area (sq.km): Da Nang: 1,283.4; Quang Nam: 10,438.4 Population (2010): Da Nang: 926,000; Quang Nam: 1,425,100 Ethnic groups: Viet (Kinh), Hoa, Co Tu, Xo Dang, Gie Trieng, Co (Cor) Located in the middle of Central Viet Nam, Da Nang - Quang Nam is a abundant region in traditional culture with many folk songs such as bai choi, ho khoan, hat ly...

Da Nang City is an economic centre, the largest city in Central Viet Nam. To Da Nang, visitors will have opportunity to visit famous des¬tinations such as Cham Sculpture Museum, Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, Ba Na - Suoi Mo Tourist Site, poetic Han River and swing-bridge which has become symbol of the city. Da Nang also has many beautiful beaches such as My Khe, Xuan Thieu Non Nuoc, etc. Especially, beach of Da Nang was listed as one of six the most beautiful beaches of the world by Forbes Magazine (US) in 2005. Quang Nam Province was land where Champa Kingdom flourished with many imposing palaces, towers, temples, citadels and ramparts. The vestiges of which are still to be seen today in My Son, Tra Kieu... Quang Nam also keeps vestiges of resistance war period for national independence such as Nui Thanh Vestige, Ky Anh Tunnel, Chu Lai Base... Also in Quang Nam, Hoi An is one of the most ancient ports of Southeast Asia and it has been kept almost intact until today. Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary have been recognized by UMESCO as World Cultural Heritage sites since December, 1999.

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Things to Do in Da Nang Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Da Nang is a modern and vibrant city in Vietnam. There is definitely a lot more to see and do in Danang. In this Da Nang Travel Guide blog post, I will outline the things to do in Danang as well as travel information and tips to make your trip easier.

Da Nang was the first destination I start exploring Vietnam. I enjoy coming here for the unbeatable value, delicious Vietnamese food, and fascinating things to see in the city’s streets. It is an amazing place that would not disappoint anyone.

As a developing coastal city, Da Nang is a growing tourist hotspot full of adventures and pristine sandy white beaches. It is voted by Forbes as 1 of the 6 most breathtaking beaches on the planet, making this an ideal beach gateway for visitors.

Alongside Da Nang’s beaches, there are also many more beautiful and scenic spots to slowly discover. It is even best to plan a day trip to visit surrounding attractions and the UNESCO World Heritage sites nearby such as Hoi An and My Son. A great beach city that is a great introduction for beginner travelers who are looking to travel in Vietnam.

This Da Nang Travel guide is essential for a short trip to this Vietnam’s most vibrant city. We’ve included the most fun and best things to do in Da Nang as well as recommendations for the best beaches, accommodation, and food in Danang to make the most out of your trip.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit Da Nang

The best time to visit Da Nang for tourists is from February through April. The weather is not too hot and slightly chilly. Many visitors flock from all over the world to enjoy the fine weather and all the outdoor activities the city has to offer.

From May to August, the weather is noticeably hotter and it is to reach up to 40 degrees. Sightseeing is quite exhausting at this time due to the high temperatures. The rainy season begins from September until January. Rainy season means that you need to expect more rain showers and the climate is relatively unpredictable.

How To Get To Da Nang City

It’s easily accessible to Da Nang city center from the Da Nang International Airport. It is about 10 minutes away from the city center. Generally, there are three ways to get into Da Nang city from Da Nang (DAD) International Airport.

Taxi is the fastest option with plenty of taxis waiting just outside the arrival hall. One-way of the 10-minute ride will cost around 110,000 VND depending on the distance

GRAB (South-East Asia of Uber) is another option when getting into Da Nang airport to the city. You can also use this e-hailing service when traveling in Da Nang. You just need to have the app ready on your smartphone before your travels and pinpoint exact pick-up and drop-off locations. A one-way 10 minutes trip will cost around 100,000 VND.

If you are going straight to Hoi An, you can pre-book the private transfer which will take you to your hotel in Hoi An directly. The price is reasonable and hustle-free without worrying too much about being cheated by the taxi scam.

PRE-BOOK: Private Transfer from Da Nang Airport

Where To Stay

I would highly recommend staying in the beach resort if you are looking for relaxation and tranquility on Da Nang. There are many beautiful resorts and accommodations available for your perfect gateway in Danang. Most importantly, the accommodation price in Da Nang is relatively cheap for the world-class facilities and services.

We recommended Premier Village Danang Resort at Bac My An Beach and Four Points by Sheraton Danang at MyKhe Beach. Both are popular picks among travelers to Da Nang.

Alternatively, you can also consider staying in Star City Hotel & Apartments . It is perfectly situated along the bank of the Han River, offering a splendid panoramic view of the Han River, the Dragon and Han Bridges, and the city.

Things To Do in Da Nang

There are many things you can do in Danang that we included in below Da Nang Travel Guide.

Within the Danang city itself , you can get lost in the downtown area by visiting the local market, watching the Dragon bridge performance, or strolling in the romantic love bridge. You can also go to pristine beaches to enjoy the sun and sea, or travel to Son Tra Peninsula for a birds-eye view of the city

Outside the Danang city , we recommended planning a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary. Besides, the Ba Na Hills, a hilltop French-colonial entertainment park is also best to plan into the Da Nang Travel Guide.

In short, here are the best things to do in Da Nang Travel Guide :

Relaxing on Da Nang Beaches

Shopping in han market, have a vietnamese breakfast in local market, visit da nang pink cathedral, rent a motorbike to son tra peninsula, visit linh ung pagoda, admire tallest lady buddha in vietnam, watch performance at dragon bridge, romantic stroll at love bridge, eat da nang quang noodles, enjoy the cool weather at ba na hill.

• Explore Hoi An Ancient Town 
• Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary

Da Nang Tour Options

There are various day trip excursions you can plan for your Da Nang itinerary. While it’s possible to visit Da Nang with a DIY itinerary, if you are short on time or prefer to have someone do the organizing for you, a number of tour companies operate day excursions.

Here are a few tours from Da Nang for your interest:

• Cultural : Hoi An City Tour and Coconut Basket Boat Tour
• Fun Amusement Park : Sun World Ba Na Hills Day Tour
• Historical : My Son Sanctuary Tour from Da Nang

If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, relaxing on Da Nang beaches is one of the best things to do in Da Nang. The city is blessed with beautiful beaches and some are easily accessible right from the city itself.

Most of the beaches in Da Nang are open for tourists all day long and can be visited any time of the year. Grab your swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen and head to the beaches in Da Nang.

Among all the beaches in Da Nang, the most popular beaches are My Khe Beach and Non Nuoc Beach.

My Khe Beach is considered one of the best beaches on the planet by Forbes. The 20-mile stretch of white sands and majestic blue water will give you a luxurious vibe when step on the soil of this beach. The beach is popular for sunbathing, fishing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, and surfing. You’ll also find many high-end resorts and seafood restaurants nearby the beach.

Another one of Da Nang’s famous beaches is Non Nuoc Beach . It takes about a 20-minute drive from Da Nang City. The Non Nuoc Beach takes up five kilometers of Hoa Hai Ward’s coastline and featuring with soft white sands, a gentle slope, unpolluted waters, and mild waves. It tends to be quite calm and you’ll love to go for a barefoot walk along the pristine shoreline. Many visitors come here for leisure activities such as sunbathing, jet-skiing, and surfing whilst enjoying local seafood dishes.

Visiting a local traditional market is always a great experience to get a fantastic glimpse into local life. In Da Nang, the Han Market or Chợ Hàn is a great example of the ASEAN market. This is a great place to interact with the local people for a taste of the local life and also find a good bargain at the Da Nang’s local markets.

Han Market is the central market, located in the heart of Da Nang city , near the Han River Bridge. The 2 stories covered building is operated since the French occupancy in the 1940s. There are hundreds of stalls in the markets and you can find almost everything here. From local produces handicrafts, T-shirts, accessories, and dried food to bring back home (nuts, coffee, pickles, and snacks). Even locals love visiting Han Markets to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats for their daily living.

Enjoy the shopping sphere and bargain for the best prices with the vendors. The price was reasonable in Han Market. But be prepared to be squished in the crowd.

If you are visiting Han Market in the morning, consider having an authentic Vietnamese breakfast to kick start your day. There is a small food court in the center of the market, selling the local Vietnamese dish you can think of.

From Mi Quang(Vietnamese turmeric noodles), pho (beef noodles soup), Banh Xeo (crispy pancake), Bun Thit Nuong (dry Bun with grilled pork ), Goi Cuon (Vietnamese spring rolls), and many more Vietnamese local foods. Each of the food should cost you no more than VND 30,000. A tasty yet cheap breakfast in Da Nang.

Nothing beat having a cup of Vietnamese coffee and Vietnamese noodles in the morning like a local. We love our bowl of pho with their local sauce in Han Market.

Da Nang Cathedral is one of the famous catholic churches in Vietnam thanks to its amazing design features. It is built by the French in 1923 and serves the local Catholic community until today. The cathedral has a signature pink-painted edifice as well as colorful stained-glass windows and an imposing bell tower topped with a rooster weathercock.

Entrance to Da Nang Cathedral is free of charge and you could visit this place irrespective of your religious orientations. It is highly recommended to visit the church once as a tourist if not on a day when Mass is held.

• Opening Hours : Opening hours 11:30-14:00
• Mass Time : Monday-Saturday 5:30, 17:30, Sunday 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, 15:30, and 17:30.

Also known as the Monkey Mountain, The Son Tra Peninsula is a breathtaking national park located in the northeastern part of Da Nang. It is about 13 km from the city center, away from the hustle and busy life of the city. The mountain is about 693 meters above sea level and could be reached by a 35-minute drive from the center of the city.

Son Tra Peninsula is spoilt with lush green, hilly landscapes and is surrounded by pristine beaches such as Bai Bac, Bai Nam, Bai But, and Tien Sa Beach. The winding road to the peak is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural scenery. You’ll find the verdant jungles and also spot rare species such as the red face monkeys.

Traveling to Son Tra Peninsula would be a good morning or afternoon excursion. If you’ve got a scooter or are planning on renting one while in Da Nang then going for a ride around Son Tra Mountain is a must-do in Da Nang. The views of the hills and the Pacific Ocean are fantastic, and it is very chill when driving to the mountain. This is the most experience you need to get when you come to Da Nang city for sure.

Da Nang Travel Tips : You can reach the peak by car, motorbike, and even a bike if you are strong enough. If you are a little scared of the traffic in Vietnam, you can always hire a taxi, or go on a private tour, which will take you to all of the most important places.

Visit Linh Ung pagoda is another thing to do on your Da Nang Travel guide. The pagoda is on a hill while making your trip to the Son Tra Peninsula.

After you enter the entrance gate, the lovely courtyard will mesmerize you with the well-maintained gardens with several kinds of bonsai, a small pond, and 18 different statues having different expressions. Besides, the temple houses a 1.1-meter-high seated Buddha statue and brass statues of the Goddess of Mercy (Avalokitesvara), and Dai The Chi Bodhisattva.

Don’t forget to walk to the back of the platform for a serene view of the city. It’s a perfect vantage point offering a panoramic view of Da Nang.

Despite the bustling Da Nang city center, the atmosphere here is very serene with locals praying in the morning and monks going about their daily lives. The entry to this place is free of charge, but remember to avoid it during the special occasions when it gets crowded with pilgrims. Many locals come to worship on the first and fifteenth of each month.

When walking up the steps in Linh Ung temple, you’ll find the tallest lady Buddha statue in Vietnam . It is one of the highlights when visiting the Son Tra Peninsula.

The landmark statue of Lady Buddha dominates the skyline view and is visible from many locations in Da Nang. It is 67 meters in height and 35 meters in diameter at its base. Standing at its base to admire the lady Buddha is awe-inspiring.

Da Nang possesses various beautiful bridges that’s why somehow this city is called The city of bridges. Among them, the Dragon bridge constructed in the shape of a golden dragon stands out. Locals believe the dragon symbolizes power, nobility, and good fortune.

Dragon Bridge is the longest bridge in Vietnam with 666-meter in length. The six-lane bridge is crossing the Han River, connecting the important places in Da Nang.

In the morning, the dragon bridge is busy with motorbikes and cars crossing over the bridge. It turns into one of the stunning views in Da Nang at night when the dragon is lit-on and illuminated with a colorful light display. The river reflects the sparkling and twinkling colors off the water which creates a charming scene.

Every weekend from 21:00 onwards , the dragon bridge will schedule for fire and water performance. You’ll see the dragon spit water and breathe fire from its mouth. It may not be a reason in itself for coming to Da Nang but once you’re here it would be a shame to miss it.

Just a few steps away from the Dragon Bridge is the Da Nang’s love bridge on the Han River. It is inspired by the famous love lock bridges around the world with lots of personalized locks that have been locked onto arc shape bridges. Many young couples travel to love bridge just to put their lock on the pier, hoping for a good relationship.

In the evening, the love shape lights are lit up along the waterfront, creating a romantic scene when strolling along the bridge. There are also restaurants, pubs, and bars all around the area that serve tourists at any time of day to enjoy the beautiful view.

When it comes to central Vietnam regional local cuisine in particular, you probably will eat the Cao lầu (Hoi An Style Noodles) at Hoi An. But in Da Nang, mì quảng (Quang Noodles) is the one that you’re not to be missed when you visit here.

Da Nang is heavily influenced by other regions like Hue or Quang Nam. So, it is not surprising many Vietnamese cuisines have become the regional popular cuisine. Originated from Quảng Nam Province, mì quảng is one of the best noodles from Central Vietnam, especially Da Nang city.

The turmeric rice noodles are made from rice flour and cut into flat fibers. It is commonly served with meats, vegetables, herbs, and a small amount of broth. Most restaurants in Danang are serving this regional dish and you can enjoy it in restaurants, or even food stalls in the street.

Located 40 km west of Da Nang, the Ba Na Hills has become one of the popular things to do when visiting Da Nang. This comprehensive entertainment attraction is located in the Truong Son Mountains with constant cool temperatures throughout the year.

Klook Exclusive : Roundtrip Shuttle Bus from Da Nang to Sun World Ba Na Hills

To get to Ba Na Hills, you will ride the world record longest 5801-meter long single-cable from the foot of the mountain to the top. Once you are at the top, you can start exploring the hilltop resort. The Ba Na Hills SunWorld has a French village that looks like a medieval castle, amuse park with several adventure rides, a wax museum, and many more attractions.

The most popular attraction in Ba Na Hills is the golden bridge where the bridge is built at an elevation of 1400 mete with two hands holding on it. You will feel like being at the hands of God when you stand in the middle of the bridge.

Due to the nice weather, many people love to spend one night in this hilltop resort to experience the beauty of the 4 seasons. The Mercure Danang French Village Bana Hills is the popular pick if you plan for overnight at Ba Na Hill.

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

If you have more days to spend in Da Nang, we recommended visiting the Hoi An. The ancient town of Hoi An is about 30 km from downtown Da Nang. It is a great option for a day trip. But you can also stay there for days or even a weekend.

Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient town with a historic heritage building. It was once a trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century and has a long history of exposure to foreign cultures. You will find Chinese, Japanese architecture, and French colonial buildings blend into this Vietnamese town.

The ancient town is very dreamy when the yellow town is lit up with colorful lanterns at night. You will fall in love with the ancient traditional culture and the local atmosphere.

Do you want to visit Hoi An? Check out how to plan your trip.

• Things To Do in Hoi An: A Complete Travel Guide
• Where To Stay in Hoi An: Best Homestay and Hotels

Take a Day Trip To My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of a collection of ruins by the kingdom of Champ. The ruins are about 1,300 years old now. It marks history and evokes the civilization they represent.

During your trip to My Son, you’ll see the remaining 70 temples which survive the Vietnam war, ornate carvings as well as impressive stone pillars and buildings. It is like a small version of Angkor Wat, Cambodia.

For me, there isn’t much to see here but it still provides a great insight into the country’s past. Good for a day trip to understand more about a beautiful old-time of Vietnamese central region. A guided tour is recommended if you want to know more about the history of My Son Sanctuary.

Recommended guided tour : My Son Sanctuary Tour from Da Nang

More Da Nang Travel Guide Tips

All in all, Da Nang is blessed with not only beautiful beaches but also much stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine. You’ll easily find yourself being lost in a myriad of things to do and want to spend a few days exploring everything the city offers.

Lastly, we hope our detailed Da Nang travel guide blog will help you enjoy this charming city to the fullest. If you’re still unsure of what to see, we’ve packed all of our tips at the Central Vietnam travel guide blog article so you can plan out your perfect travel route through Da Nang. Find out more here.

• 5 Days in Central Vietnam Itinerary
• Da Nang & Hoi An Food Guide: What To Eat
• Where To Stay in Da Nang: Best Areas and Hotels
• Hue Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Traveling to Northern Vietnam :

• Things To Do in Sapa Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where To Stay in Sapa: Best Hotels and Homestays
• A Trip To Halong Bay: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
• Things To Do in Hanoi Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Where To Stay in Hanoi: Best Areas and Hotels

Lastly, traveling to Phu Quoc? Feel free to read on our Phu Quoc travel stories.

Ultimate Travel Guide Blog to Phu Quoc itinerary

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• 1.1 Orientation
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By taxi
• 3.1 By ride hailing
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.4.1 To Monkey Mountain
• 3.4.2 To Hoi An
• 3.5 By bicycle
• 5.1 Beaches
• 5.2 Motorbike rides
• 8.1 Markets and night markets
• 8.2 Malls and supermarkets
• 9.1.1 Downtown (around the Han market Chợ Hàn)
• 9.1.2 Beach district My An
• 9.1.3 Beach district Phước Mỹ
• 9.1.4 Elsewhere
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Bars and discos
• 10.2.1 Budget
• 10.2.2 Mid-range
• 10.2.3 Splurge
• 11.1 Budget
• 11.2 Mid-range
• 11.3 Splurge
• 12.1 Internet
• 13 Stay healthy
• 14.1 Taxi scams
• 15.1 Pulled or accident (motorbike)
• 15.2 Immigration office
• 15.3 Legal assistance

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Da Nang (Đà Nẵng) is Vietnam 's fifth largest city. It's in Central Vietnam on the South China Sea coast, midway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City .

The city has neither the ambiance of Hanoi nor the hustle-bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, but has its share of sights and is close to the charms of Hoi An and the imperial capital of Hue , making it a popular vacation spot for those looking to explore the attractions of central Vietnam or soak up some sun while hanging out on the city's beaches.

The regions surrounding Da Nang ( My Son , Quang Nam ) were founded by the Cham Hindus perhaps 3,000 years ago, serving as the capital city and centre of the Hindu Champa Dynasty. Vietnamese invasions into the region in the 17th century significantly halted Cham development.

Given that Da Nang was the first point of colonial invasion, many vestiges of French architecture are present in the historic buildings. Da Nang was also where American combat troops first landed during the Vietnam War , and there are also many remnants of that era left over in Da Nang. During the war, many monuments and buildings were destroyed. On the way to My Khe Beach, the ruins of a military base remain in the form of helicopter hangars; however, these are now more easily spotted at the airport, which serves both civil and military flights.

Since the early 1990s, the government has been enthusiastically pursuing foreign investment and infrastructure development, and a tourism boom exploded in the mid-2010s with rustic backpacker lodges giving way to highrise hotels. Initially driven by foreign visitors, particularly Koreans, the Vietnamese themselves have also discovered the city and during holiday periods the city gets packed.

Da Nang has some of the best roads in the country. The coast road is at least four lanes from northern provincial boundary to southern provincial boundary. Compared to either Hanoi or HCMC, traffic in Da Nang is always relatively light, although huge trucks blast through every now and again and there are brief rush hours.

Orientation

Orienting yourself in Da Nang is straightforward. Gorgeous My Khe Beach ( Bãi biển Mỹ Khê ), the "China Beach" of Vietnam War fame, runs along the city's eastern edge and continues nearly 40   km south all the way to Hoi An . Tourism in the area has absolutely exploded since the 2010s and it's fast becoming a solid wall of blingy skyscraper hotels and apartments in the vein of Miami or Gold Coast . To the west of My Khe is the wide Han River ( Sông Hàn ), crossed by many bridges including the famous Dragon Bridge, and on the other side is the commercial center of the city including the airport. To the north is the lush green Sơn Trà Peninsula (aka Monkey Mountain), much of which is a dedicated nature reserve. Son Tra Peninsula is home to 60% of Vietnam's critically endangered and very distinct looking large red-shanked douc monkeys.

• Da Nang City Tourism website

The hottest months of the year are Jun-Aug, when the temperature can go as high as 40   °C, and it is very humid. There are usually tropical storms from Oct-Nov.

Getting there and away :

• Taxis can be found outside the terminal, with reliable companies like Mai Linh, Taxi Xanh and Song Han usually sticking to be meter (around 70,000 dong).
• If using Grab , head across the taxi lines to the well-marked dedicated pickup point.
• Regular shuttle buses to and from Hoi An cost 130,000 dong per person. The journey takes about 45 min.

Many taxis are available outside of the station, but it's best to avoid the motorbike taxis as many times they are the same price or more than regular taxi.

Da Nang is in the middle of the country, roughly speaking equidistant from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. It's possible to rent a car and drive yourself, but as Vietnamese traffic in general is chaotic and dangerous, foreign visitors and locals usually rent a car with a driver.

• 16.055 108.17337 3 Đà Nẵng Bus Station . It's a few kilometers out of the city but is served by local buses such as #2 which goes to the town centre and #1 to Hoi An.  

For public buses to and from Hoi An see Hoi An#By bus .

Sleeper and regular buses (depending on the distance) depart from all major destinations in the country to Da Nang, including Quang Binh , Phong Nha , Pleiku , Phan Thiet , and Vung Tau . Booking is possible at the Da Nang Intercity Bus Station, with travel agencies and at your accommodation.

From Hue the trip takes 3 hr with one refreshment stop on the way. But the bus uses the tunnel, so does not go over the spectacular pass between Da Nang and Hue.

Also from Laos : Pakse, Vientiane, Champasak, Savannakhet (around 800,000 dong) (2015).

A Grab from and to Hoi An is about 300–400,000 dong (as of April 2024).

According to reports, 300–500,000 dong is the standard rate for going to Hoi An for a regular taxi. You can try to negotiate with a taxi driver at the train station, and agree on a fare of 200,000 dong.

By ride hailing

The average cabbie speaks no English, so Grab is very useful for getting to your destination, it can even translate chat messages both ways. Rates are generally competitive with taxis, although the quality of cars or motorbikes can be a bit of a gamble. It may be worth paying the extra 10% to get a classier "Plus" vehicle.

Motorbike taxis ( xe ôm , literally hug-vehicle) are plentiful (get used to hearing "you want moto?" everywhere), cheap, and are generally quite safe. All riders are now required to wear helmets, a rule that is strongly enforced. Make sure the driver supplies you with a helmet. If he doesn't, find another one, as you'll be the one stung for the fine.

Short hops around town shouldn't be more than 20,000 dong, if you go between districts this increases and all the way to the airport around 70,000 dong. Drivers are generally quite friendly and will go slower upon request. They are also not adverse to a bear hug if you are really struggling to hold on to the motorbike. Many of the moto drivers, especially in District 1, speak some English and like many Vietnamese will repay you in a flood of smiles, and probably point out all the sights, if you make a little effort to get to know them.

Taxi rates are very reasonable in Da Nang, and scams are less common than in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City , but you're better off going with a reputable company to avoid any hassle.

• Mai Linh ( mostly green with white lettering, though sometimes green or silver ), ☏ +84 511 356 5656 .  
• Vinasun ( white with green and red lettering ), ☏ +84 511 368 6868 . have large fleets in the city and are generally honest and reliable, with meters that start automatically after the taxis have moved about 5 m.  

At the airport, Mai Linh taxi wardens wear green shirts with green ties, and Vinasun wardens dark green shirts with maroon ties. These wardens can radio taxis for you. Some travellers have reported that Song Han' s yellow taxis are also fairly reliable. The ride sharing app "Grab" is common and can be used to arrange for a taxi or other ride.

There are 19 local bus lines. Buses are new and all of them are air-conditioned. Ticket price is 6,000 dong per ride. In the DanaBus app (Android, iOS) you can put your starting point and destination. Then the app shows you the right bus line for your ride.

The shown route map and lines at bus stops are outdated. Every bus stop has a sign at the street. The displayed bus stop in the app is around where the actual bus stop is. The local bus service operates until 18:00.

Taxi drivers may park in front of the bus stop and tell you that the bus is not running. This is not true — they are just trying to get your business.

By motorbike

You can rent your own motorbike in many places, especially around the backpacker area (Tran Cao Van) in District Thanh Khe. 110,000 dong should get you a decent 100-110 cc bike. Two main categories of motorbike are available for rent: scooters (automatic transmission); and four-speed motorbikes, the gears of which you change with your left foot. The ubiquitous Honda Super Cub is a common 4-speed bike that has a semi-automatic gearbox, i.e., no clutch, so relatively easy to drive. Other models may be fully manual and therefore you must also operate the clutch using your left hand. This takes a lot of skill and it's all too easy to over-rev and pull a wheelie or stall the engine. If you end up with such a bike then practice releasing the clutch gently before hitting the roads. Rental agents tend to steer foreigners toward scooters if available, on the (plausible) assumption that they don't know how to ride motorbikes that have manual gears. Motorcycles of 175 cc and above are only legal to ride if you make a connection with a Vietnamese motorcycle club.

To Monkey Mountain

Besides riding through the Hai Van Pass the iconic motorcycle ride in Da Nang is to Monkey Mountain. Many will ride up the road by the beach following it to the Intercontinental Resort, then ride along the north side heading west and finally down the mountain to be let out near the Port of Da Nang. It's a ride similar to the 18-km (11-mile) "Tail of the Dragon" in Tennessee and North Carolina except with a steeper grade, more and sharper turns, amazing views of East [Vietnamese] Sea, wild monkeys and no one is checking to see if you're going over the speed limit. Other than the weekends it's common not to see another person for the entire ride leaving the mountain to yourself. If you go just before sunrise, head to the north side and are quiet you might see a red-shanked or gray-shanked douc. There are a few well posted areas that are military facilities and the signs, which are in Vietnamese and English, warning you not to enter or take pictures need to be respected. The road is well maintained but it's not uncommon to encounter a large boulder mostly blocking one's passage. There were a number of possible construction projects scheduled to begin in 2019 which will forever replace some of the views of nature for ones of hotels, condominiums and tour buses. It's recommended not to ride at night.

Renting a motorbike to travel to Hoi An from Da Nang costs about 80,000-150,000 dong per day from most hotel and rental companies in Da Nang. Locals pay about 50,000-100,000 dong. With a little bargaining and renting for a week or month at a time, you could bring down the price. Haggle and ask if they include roadside service. The distance to Hoi An is approximately 28   km and takes about 45–60 min. The route is fairly simple and straightforward, and takes you along the coastline of Da Nang, allowing you an extraordinary experience and views along the beaches to Hoi An. The traffic is light. once you get outside the city. Make sure you bring along a windbreaker or sweater, during autumn and spring, as the temperature along the coastline can be a little cold. Be cautious riding in winter or rainy season from late September to January, as the wind is strong and rain is frequent. Avoid major roadways at night.

Electric bicycles are now common in Da Nang and offer an excellent alternative to gasoline powered motorbikes. They have more than enough power to drive most of the day throughout the city, can be driven without a driver's license and are easier to drive than their gas-powered cousins. While they won't make it back and forth to Hoi An or around Monkey Mountain they're well suited for city travel. Check with the company that issued you your traveler's insurance to see if you're still covered while driving an e-bike.

For years, tourists have bypassed Da Nang on their travel itineraries, preferring to spend their time viewing the ancient imperial court at Hue or walking the streets of the old town in Hoi An. And yet, as those who call it home are aware, Da Nang has plenty of interesting and beautiful sights of its own. Nestled between the Annamite Range and the South China Sea on the banks of the Han River, Da Nang's natural beauty is hard to miss; a trip up into the mountains and down to the beach should be on your to-do list. Culturally, Da Nang once lay at the northernmost reaches of the Kingdom of Champa; the Museum of Cham Sculpture, located in the city centre, should be mandatory if you're planning on visiting the ruins at nearby My Son.

• 16.02577 108.0314 1 Ba Na Hill Station ( Bà Nà ) ( about 40 km west ), ☏ +84 236 3791 999 . Ba Na is 1,487 m above sea level in the Truong Son Mountains. In the 1920s, it was a French resort that boasted 200 villas, restaurants, and clubs. It is known as the second Dalat or Sa Pa in central Vietnam. Its temperate climate, unspoiled forest, and spectacular views over the South China Sea and the Lao mountains made Ba Na a popular retreat for both the French and the wealthy Vietnamese. Today the area still attracts locals and tourists alike thanks to a cable car system that was opened in 2009 and set two Guinness World Records for its height and length. Great view from the top but it's really useless to stay overnight since the accommodation options are shabby and overpriced (US$80-150 per night). You need to get a taxi to Suoi Mo Station (US$25 one-way from Da Nang) then pay 550,000 dong per adult (250,000 dong for children between 1-1.3 m tall, free admission for children under 1 m tall) for the ticket to the cable car and the Fantasy Park .   (Update 2024: The complete Area is an event park it called "Sunworld" and foreigner has to pay 900.000 VND now. It includes the cable cars (but not all are in use right now), the roaler coaster and another thing. For the rest, the wax museum for example, you have to pay extra. There is no other option to get to this mountain.)

• 16.06491 108.22464 3 Han River Promenade , along Bach Dang Rd ( between Dragon Bridge and Da Nang Port ). The beauty of the Han River has inspired poets and composers throughout Da Nang's history, and any local will probably be able to sing you a few lines of Sông Hàn Tình Yêu Của Tôi (Han River, My Love) as they stroll the edge of the water. The promenade on the western bank of the river is well built up, stretching from the Dragon Bridge in the south to the city port in the north. The promenade passes underneath the famous Han River Bridge, a swing bridge built in the late-1990s, one of four bridges across the Han you can glimpse from here (the others are the Thuan Phuoc, Dragon, and Tran Thi Ly bridges). All of the bridges light up with colorful patterns at night, making a walk by the river a delightful (and certainly romantic) escapade. Locals often gather here in the evenings to watch the water, play hacky-sack, or bring their children for a run. During the Tet season, the promenade is festooned with sculptures and art. The annual Fireworks Festival is also based here, but you're better off seeing the show from afar, as it tends to get quite crowded.  
• 16.10032 108.27799 4 Linh Ung Temple ( Chùa Linh Ứng ), Hoang Sa Rd ( Bai But, Son Tra Peninsula ). Located on Son Tra Mountain and clearly visible from My Khe Beach, this temple has stunning views of the sea, the sky, and a 67-m tall statue of "Quan The Am" (Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy) facing the ocean. The pagoda was built in 2010.  

• 16.00333 108.2637 5 Marble Mountains ( Ngu Hanh Son ) ( 9 km S of downtown and across the street from many of the larger beach side resorts ), ☏ +84 511 961114 . The group includes Kim Son (Mountain of Metal), Moc Son (Mountain of Wood), Thuy Son (Mountain of Water), Hoa Son (Mountain of Fire), and Tho Son (Mountain of Earth). Several Buddhist temples have been built into the caves and grottoes, and it's a popular pilgrimage site. The real fun, though, is at the Am Phu cave, where you can make the steep climb up toward the light and a view from the top of the mountain, surrounded by approving sacred images; or head in the opposite direction, physically and spiritually, down to the crude Hieronymous Bosch-esque statues of sinners getting their due in the caverns below, with appropriately eerie lighting. Either way, wear walking or climbing shoes. Open-tour buses will stop here, but you'll be rushed along; any motorbike taxi in Da Nang or Hoi An will be happy to take you and let you set the schedule. Guides are available. Watch out for the rapacious statue-sellers outside. 40,000 dong but may enter for free if arriving before 08:00; tickets for a ride up by elevator are 15,000 dong .  

• 16.06006 108.22307 6 Museum of Cham Sculpture ( Bảo Tàng Chăm ), #2, September 2nd Rd ( next to western end of Dragon Bridge ). 07:30–11:00, 13:30–17:00 . Founded in 1915 by the École Française d'Extrême Orient, it houses a collection of stone sculptures from the Hindu-practicing Cham civilization, which occupied much of central Vietnam in the first millennium CE to about the 14th century. The museum can be toured in about an hour. The sculptures are nearly all made of sandstone, and some have weathered badly over the centuries, but you can still appreciate the delightful artistic quality of the figures, which include shiva, garudas, nagas, lions, monkeys, and elephants. The collection also includes striking examples of the ancient Hindu icons of fertility: lingam altars decorated around the sides with rows of breasts. The sculptures were mostly removed from the facades or interiors of Cham ruins (which would have been looted otherwise.) The ruins themselves, such as nearby My Son, now tend to be crumbling piles of bricks and somewhat disappointing, giving little sense of the spectacular artwork produced by the Cham civilization. Any visit to My Son should be paired with a visit to the Cham Museum. The collection is also interesting to compare with Balinese sculpture and the early, Hindu phase of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The museum was given a makeover in 2019, but post-COVID the souvenir shop, cafe, interactive displays, and even the air-con has been switched off. Arrive early to beat the heat, and beware of the awkward 2.5-hour siesta during the middle of the day. 60,000 dong . ( updated Aug 2024 )

Danang is justly famous for its beaches. My Khe Beach — known as China Beach during the Vietnam War, although the name is rarely if ever used locally — to the east is the top draw, gently curving nearly 40   km south towards Hoi An . While the beach is uninterrupted, it changes names several times along the way, becoming Non Nước near the Marble Mountains, Hà My beyond that, and finally An Bàng and Cửa Đại at the Hoi An end. To the northwest of the city is another long beach variously known as Nguyễn Tất Thành and Xuân Thiều (Red Beach), running all the way up towards the Hải Vân Pass.

• 16.07035 108.24623 1 My Khe Beach ( Bãi biển Mỹ Khê ), Hoang Sa Rd . Across the Han River from the city centre, My Khe Beach is a wide, sandy beach long known for its beauty. Locals will often gather here as early in the morning as 05:00 to enjoy the surf while the sun rises over the ocean. Tourists often arrive later on, when the locals have already started their day; you'll probably find that by 09:00 or 10:00 the beach is mostly deserted. An even larger local crowd gathers in the late afternoon, with folks wading, picnicking and strolling along the beach well into the night. The beach isn't steep, meaning that you can swim far out and still feel your feet touch the bottom. During busy times, lifeguards float around in coracle boats, whistling at those who venture too far out. While access to the beach itself is free, the public showers charge a token 2000 dong/person for entry (motorbike parking extra) and the beachfront cafes rent out beach chairs with a shade for around 40,000 dong. ( updated Jun 2022 )

Motorbike rides

• 16.1014 108.26529 2 Motorbike ride up Monkey Mountain ( Son Tra Mountain ) ( follow Hoang Sa Rd. towards the mountain ). If you feel like a ride with an amazing view, rent a motorbike and make your way up the side of Monkey Mountain (aka Son Tra Mountain), where an American army base used to be. Although access to the base is closed off, you can still follow Hoang Sa Rd. for a good distance and enjoy getting lost in the beautiful scenery on this road that hugs the mountainside while offering an expansive view of the Pacific Ocean. You can also stop off at Linh Ung Temple along the way, both to pay your respects to Quan The Am and to enjoy the wonderful view.  
• 16.18729 108.1307 3 Ride a motorbike up the Hai Van Pass ( Hai Van Pass ) ( follow the coast road N until you reach Rd 1A ). The Hai Van Pass is a great day trip from Da Nang (or Hoi An). The road was called "a deserted ribbon of perfection—one of the best coast roads in the world" in the BBC show Top Gear . Since the tunnel opened, most heavy traffic has diverted from the pass, making the ride much safer, and you'll only meet a few trucks ferrying live animals or dangerous goods, plus quite a few motorbikers coming to enjoy the views. Make sure you ride down the north side of the pass all the way to Lang Co and enjoy the view of the lagoon set against a background of mountains. Make sure you fill up your tank before hitting the pass (there's a petrol station a few kilometres before the road starts climbing) as you won't find petrol there.  

It is difficult to learn Vietnamese in Da Nang as the expat community is small and the demand for language learning is not great. You will be able to find many people who are willing to do language exchange with you and there are a number of qualified Vietnamese teachers. The rate is about US$5/hour.

The Da Nang dialect of Vietnamese is distinct from the Hanoi and HCMC versions, although closer to HCMC than to Hanoi. If you learned your Vietnamese in Hanoi, many ordinary people in Da Nang will have some difficulty understanding you until they realize you are trying to talk like the presenters they see on TV. Even trained teachers will tend to teach you to speak like a Da Nang person unless you emphasize that you want to learn Hanoi dialect, which is understood {eventually} throughout the country as it is the official version and that used on TV. If you spend a fair amount of time in Da Nang, either employed or as a volunteer, it is fairly easy to find recent English graduates, or students studying English at the College of Foreign Languages of the University of Da Nang who will happily work through a Vietnamese textbook with you for a lot less than US$5/hour, and this is probably as good a way as any to acquire some Vietnamese. There are Vietnamese course books for foreigners: Teach Yourself Vietnamese ( Huong Dan Tu Hoc Tieng Viet, a Complete Course for Beginners ) by Dana Healy is one of the best; Jake Catlett and Huong Nguyen's Vietnamese for Beginners is easier and less comprehensive; Nguyen Anh Que's Vietnamese for Foreigners is good and has a lot of material and vocabulary.

There are a number of schools (ILA, Apollo, Academy English Center, and the University of Da Nang) where qualified teachers can teach English. The salaries are many times above the average national wage.

Shops often operate from the ground floor of their homes, selling any number of things: coffee, bánh mì sandwiches, dry goods, clothing, SIM cards and more. Walk a little farther and you'll eventually come across a neighbourhood market where people sell fresh foods like fruits and vegetables, eggs, meat, and fish. You can do a lot of shopping but be aware that, as a foreigner, you're likely to be overcharged unless you haggle. There are an increasing number of supermarkets appearing where prices are fixed.

Markets and night markets

Night markets ( chợ đêm ) are a particularly popular choice for shopping and eating after the heat of the day has died down.

• 16.06188 108.23168 1 Son Tra Night Market ( Chợ Đêm Sơn Trà ). Riverside location near the Dragon Bridge, with about 150 stalls. Touristy but convenient. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• 16.03732 108.22435 2 Helio Night Market ( Chợ đêm Helio ). Located near the Danang Sports Hall, Helio is the largest and flashiest night market in town. Often has live music. ( updated Jun 2022 )
• 16.06823 108.22432 3 Han Market , 119 Tran Phu St ( corner of Tran Phu & Hung Vuong ). 06:00-21:00 . A typical Vietnamese market, with vendors selling everything from shoes to silk and souvenirs, candles to coffee, and candied plums. The upper part of the building is mainly dedicated to clothing, accessories and silk, while the lower part is mainly dedicated to foodstuffs. There's an extensive fruit and vegetable market on the side that's closest to the river, from which you can access the Han River promenade. Be prepared to haggle for prices, like at any neighbourhood market.  

Malls and supermarkets

• 16.0668 108.21357 4 Big C supermarket , 255 Hùng Vương ( corner of Hung Vuong and Ong Ich Khiem ). Large supermarket complex with a mall beneath it and food court above. There is also a CGV cinema on the top level. The Western-style supermarket is on the third floor. The parking entrance is on Ông Ích Khiêm.  
• 16.03506 108.22889 5 Lotte Mart shopping centre . Large shopping complex with a cinema on the top level. ( updated May 2015 )
• 16.02493 108.22008 6 Metro Cash & Carry , Cach Mang Thang Tam St ( near Hoa Xuan bridge ), ☏ +84 511 3644933 . 06:00-21:00 . An international chain of cash & carry supermarkets, Metro carries most of the things you'd expect to find in Western supermarkets: a variety of groceries (including fresh, fully refrigerated meat, if you're squeamish about buying meat at the open market), clothes, home and office supplies, electronics, and more. It's a little far from the city centre, but it's easily accessible by taxi, so you can stock up and carry all your bags home easily. You can also arrange for delivery at a nominal cost. Metro requires a membership similar to other membership-only retail warehouse clubs. Also similar is that many times they will extend a one day membership upon request.  
• 16.055717 108.24484 7 MoonMilk Supermarket . Daily specials and reduced good, and cheap 0.9L beer. ( updated Dec 2023 )
• 16.074213 108.223423 8 Oceans Western Goods ( Blue Ocean [Market] ), 30/7 Trần Phú, Hải Châu ( between Lê Duẩn and Quang Trung ), ☏ +84 90 5 60 50 50 (mobile) . A small shop that specializes in Western goods, featuring things that are hard to find elsewhere, whether at Big C or Metro: spices, oatmeal, Nutella and baking supplies. If they don't have it, there's a good chance they can order it. Fixed (though expensive) prices for everything. Indispensable if you're spending any length of time in Da Nang. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 16.0778 108.2239 9 Danang Souvenirs & Cafe , 34 Bach Dang St ( next to Novotel ), ☏ +84 511 3827 999 . 07:00 - 20:30 . Specialises in tourism souvenirs and gifts about Vietnam and Da Nang. They design their own products, and there is a wide range to choose from, including such typical souvenir products such as t-shirts, teddy bears, key rings and magnets. ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 16.0553 108.2447 10 Đặc Sản Làm Quà Đà Nẵng ( Tiem Qua Cua Lan ), 23 An Thuong 26 ( near by beach ), ☏ +84 935122618 . 08:00 - 22:30 . The place for travelers to buy gifts in Da Nang City, Viet Nam. All gifts are special and reasonable price. Service for local customers also, not only for travelers. 50,000 dong . ( updated May 2023 )

Although not a culinary capital like the ancient imperial capital Hue, Da Nang still has more than enough variety to keep you well fed throughout your stay. Seafood ( hải sản ) is popular, so you shouldn't be surprised to see plenty of fish ( cá ), shrimp ( tôm ), squid ( mực ), clams ( nghêu ), snails ( ốc ), the list goes on. There are many vegetarian restaurants which are listed as "Quán chay" ("vegetarian") or less frequently "Quán ăn chay" ("vegetarian restaurant"), and most are vegan. The vegetarian restaurants have a wide selection of dishes and are generally cleaner than places that are not vegetarian.

Then there are regional specialities like mì Quảng , or Quang Nam-style noodles, featuring chicken, shrimp, quail eggs, peanuts and rice crackers in a turmeric-spiced broth; bún chả cá , or rice vermicelli with fish sausage; and bún mắm , or rice vermicelli served with a strong fish sauce that's not for the weak of palate. Central Vietnamese love their food to be spicy, so be warned that the chili peppers ( ớt ) can be strong even if small.

The night markets (see Buy ) are also a great place to feast on local food cheaply.

Downtown (around the Han market Chợ Hàn)

• 16.066057 108.224144 1 Phở 29 - Phở Hà Nội , 1A Trần Quốc Toản, Hải Châu 1 . Bun cha, banh xeo and the fried rice are nice. Huge portions and good staff with customer service. Nice ambient sidestreet seating and many drink choices. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.064991 108.222814 2 Edo Sushi , 27 Thái Phiên, Phước Ninh, Hải Châu . Budget Japanese restaurant. The dishes are diverse. Most of the staff are students. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.065306 108.219749 3 Cơm gà A.Hải , 100 Thái Phiên, Phước Ninh, Hải Châu . Typical basic Vietnamese restaurant. The chicken rice that the locals also enjoy is nice. Both the roast chicken and thinly steamed chicken rice are tasty. The chicken soup served first is also tasty. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.05961 108.22195 4 Bánh Mì̀ Bà Lan , 62 Trưng Nữ Vương, Bình Hiên, Hải Châu , ☏ +84 93 564 62 86 . 16:00-19:00 . One of the most famous sandwich carts in the city. Try their bánh mì que which is a string baguette filled with a pork pâté. US$1 (Jan 2018) . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 16.072454 108.219051 5 Mi Quang 1A , 1 Hải Phòng, Hải Châu 1, Q. Hải Châu ( take Lê Duẩn heading east, turn left onto Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, first right onto Hải Phòng; it's on the right ), ☏ +84 236 3827 936 . 06:30-21:00 . Mi Quang 1A is one of the best known mì quảng restaurants in the area. While still good it has lost a bit of its luster over the years. Prices are higher than most places at 30,000 to 45,000 dong (Jan 2018). Make sure you are in Mi Quang 1A as there is a "copycat" place next door. Before going in grab a fresh sugarcane juice from the cart in the front. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 16.06683 108.216955 6 Bún Mắm Vân , 23/14 Trần Kế Xương, Hải Châu 2, Hải Châu , ☏ +84 236 3818 009 . 13:00-20:00 . Bún mắm is an extremely pungent noodle dish made with a fermented fish sauce called mắm nêm. Mắm nêm can best be described as "smells like hell, tastes like heaven." Bún Mắm Vân is in what is called "Bún Mắm Alley" where a few bún mắm shops have congregated. You can smell this alley from a block away. Try the bún mắm thịt quay or bún mắm with roasted pork. If you are put off by the smell of strong fish sauce this is not the place for you. If you like bún mắm this place is heaven. US$1 (Jan 2018) . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Beach district My An

• 16.048775 108.246932 7 Kenta Vietnamese cuisine & coffee , 39 An Thượng 3 . Hot pho. Very good food. They offer a vegetarian version of bun (cold vermicelli noodles) on request. The lemongrass and chilli tofu is nice. Amazingly friendly service. Warm people. Nice cozy environment. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.049171 108.244597 8 H Coffee , 89 Hoàng Kế Viêm . Recommended is the Bo ne Viet Nam steak. Bahn mi is good. The setting is quite tranquil with open spaces in a natural setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. The staff are nice people. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.049056 108.2441 9 Taco NGON , 83 Hoàng Kế Viêm . Small taco restaurant. The tacos are nice (recommended is the BBQ pork), as are the fresh fries and the tortilla chips. If you're expecting them to open a pack of Doritos and put it on the plate, you're wrong. They fry the tortilla chips to order so they come warm and full of flavour. The owner is enthusiastic and always smiling. It's no stress and has a curbside street food vibe. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.046213 108.245155 10 Pho Viet Kieu , 65 Phan Tứ . Local restaurant. Nice Pho. Still there's rice, so if you don't like pho, you can enjoy it. The menu is diverse. The owners are friendly. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.055309 108.244882 11 Cơm Nhà Linh , 35 An Thượng 26 . Delicious food, true to the homemade style, suitable for the North. The set menu is full of meat, fish, soup, vegetables, peanuts and eggs. If you are craving something local, they don't disappoint. Great experience to grill your own meat at the table. The service might be a bit slow though. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.052976 108.241537 12 Thìa Gỗ Restaurant Da Nang , 53 Phan Thúc Duyện . Real Vietnamese cuisine. Good food. Nice pho. Many traditional Vietnamese street food dishes done in a more comfortable setting. The location is little bit hidden. Very friendly staff. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.05424 108.239587 13 Chân Gà Nướng Hai Còi - Delicious BBQ Chicken , 58 Nguyễn Văn Thoại . Hai Còi is a local restaurant. There are 3 locations with the same boss. Still, the original house seems to be the best one. The stir-fried noodles are good. The chicken wings are very good, seasoned and grilled over charcoal fire. ( updated Jan 2023 )

Beach district Phước Mỹ

• 16.066792 108.243254 14 Kangaroo Bar and Burger , 229 Hồ Nghinh . Good for brunch. The pancakes are delicious. And the yogurt and fruit menu is very good. A lot of Vietnamese people come here to eat. Excellent service, quality and kindness. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.065516 108.241585 15 Bún mắm Bé Hà , 130 Bùi Hữu Nghĩa . Great local place. Casual restaurant. The Bun Mam is good. The rice crackers are recommended. From afar, you can already smell the fish sauce. If you are a foreign tourist this is a good choice. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.072065 108.240355 16 Quán Thảo , 135, Dương Trí Trạch, An Hải Bắc, Sơn Trà ( take Phạm Văn Đồng (heading towards the beach), left on Lê Minh Trung, right on Morrison and a quick left on to Trí Trạch; Quán Thảo is on the right ). 06:00-10:00 . Traditional street food establishment frequented mostly by locals for breakfast, on a quiet side road. While Ms Thảo serves Mì Quảng or [Province of] Quảng style noodles, she's known for her bún bò or beef noodle soup. Some like to add a baguette for an additional 5,000 dong. 20,000 dong (Jan 2018) . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 16.081572 108.231484 17 NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Quán Dung Mỳ Quảng , 99 Nguyễn Thị Định, An Hải Bắc, Q. Sơn , ☏ +84 122 727 4421 (mobile) . 06:00-21:00 . Well known for their mì quảng cá lóc, the best known noodle dish of Đà Nẵng, served with broad rice noodles, fresh greens, a broth seasoned with turmeric, shallots and garlic topped and with peanuts. It is served in a shallow and pungent pool of broth unlike its better known cousin phở, which is milder and fills the bowl. Cá lóc is snakehead fish; when prepared correctly, which this place is known for, has a mild flavour and very light texture. Take some of the fresh greens and stir them into the broth to give them a bit of warmth and flavour making this dish half salad and half soup. Menu with prices are on the wall. As the restaurant faces west, if you go around sunset, you'll have a pleasant view. Plenty of parking. The cleanliness of Quán Dung Mỳ Quảng is to Western restaurant standards. 20,000 dong (Jan 2018) . ( updated Jul 2022 )

• 16.06287 108.2232 18 Red Sky Bar and Restaurant , 248 Tran Phu St , ☏ +84 511 3894895 , [email protected] . An expat-run Western restaurant. The food is nice, always delicious with generous portions. The staff are good. Prices are above average by Vietnamese standards, but not too expensive for the quality of food and service received. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 16.063977 108.241455 19 Hải sản Mộc quán , 26 Tô Hiến Thành . Seafood. Busy and crowded with locals. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 16.047549 108.244624 20 Happy Heart Cafe , 57 Đ. Ng. Thì Sĩ, Bắc Mỹ An . Tasty food, friendly people. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 16.062714 108.222786 21 Pizza 4P's Hoang Van Thu , 8 Hoàng Văn Thụ . Great Restaurant. Good location, superb service and very tasteful food. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 16.048705 108.240909 22 Torino Restaurant & Bakery , 164 Châu Thị Vĩnh Tế . Italian food. The pizza dough is excellent. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 16.05951 108.20538 23 Com Nieu Nha Do , 176 Nguyễn Tri Phương ( near the airport, across from March 29 (29/3) Park ), ☏ +84 511 3990086 . 10:00-22:00 . Cơm niêu is a type of rice that's baked in a clay pot and served with any number of sides — beef, chicken, fish, hot pot — but it's the way it's served that catches your attention. Waiters come out of the kitchen bearing hot clay pots straight out of the oven, pull out hammers, smash them at your table, and fling the crusty, baked rice inside back and forth across the room. Otherwise, the food is what you'd get at a normal restaurant, but it's fun to see the show. There are many of these restaurants on Nguyen Tri Phuong St, but this one is a favourite. ( updated Sep 2022 )

Da Nang's favorite splurge is live seafood ( hải sản ) restaurants, dozens of which can be found around the My Khe seafront. They all follow basically the same formula: pick your victims from the tanks (or simple plastic buckets in cheaper backstreet joints), say how you'd like to have them cooked (the staff is happy to make recommendations), and before you can say "and some Larue beer please" the dishes will start piling up on your table. Use caution when ordering though: you'll be guided to the most expensive items like lobster, crab and exotic fish, which can easily rack up a bill of hundreds of dollars. If the menu says "market price", or the labelling of the tanks is not clear, double-check the price before ordering.

• 16.07433 108.217 24 Bambino , 122 Quang Trung . Quiet location, good food wine selection. Australian steak grilled to order. International, French and local foods, run by a French couple. A good place for a quiet meal with friends. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.064713 108.223506 25 Limoncello , 187 Tran Phu St , [email protected] . 12:00-23:00 . Great Italian food with homemade limoncello. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.07262 108.22517 26 Memory Lounge , 7 Bach Dang St ( on the riverfront, just north of Han River Bridge ), ☏ +84 8 511 3575899 . 07:00-23:30 . Quite possibly the most expensive place to go for coffee in Da Nang. The high-end Memory Lounge overlooks the river — in fact, it was built directly on top, jutting out onto the river and accessible from the promenade. Built by the wife of a former president of South Vietnam, it's quite a fancy affair — with foreign chefs blending Asian and European cuisines and using organic and sustainable ingredients to create an impressive menu. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• 16.0735 108.2447 27 Ngoc Huong , 9 Võ Nguyên Giáp St ( My Khe Beach, next to Radisson ). 10-22 . A typical but tasty live seafood neon emporium, with the motto "there is no seafood that is not available", as a glance at the nightmare fuel giant isopod tank will confirm. Fear not, they also have everything else from shrimp to imported Alaskan king crab, plus a wide variety of local molluscs, hotpot, and more. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• Dac San Tra Tien ( Da Nang Pineapple and Jasmine Tea ), 46 Nhon Hoa 17, Hoa An, Cam Le, Da Nang ( near Centre Bus Station of Da Nang city ), ☏ +84969431513 . Whether you're a tea lover or just looking to try something new, Da Nang Pineapple and Jasmine Tea is a must-try beverage that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. So, come to Da Nang and indulge in this delicious and unique tea experience. ( updated May 2023 )

Bars and discos

• 16.065 108.22406 1 Bamboo Bar 2 ( corner of Bach Dang and Thai Phien ). Popular haunt for expats. Bamboo 2's owner speaks excellent English, there are always foreigners there.  
• 16.0644 108.2302 2 Festival Disco ( on the second corner going up river from Cau Song Han on Tran Hung Dao ). The newest disco and the only one on the My Khe Beach side of the river. It's part of a complex with a restaurant and karaoke rooms. If you buy the staff a drink here (a normal thing to do in this kind of disco-night club) they can be very aggressive about drinking it fast and running up a big bill for you.  
• 16.0726 108.2247 3 Golden Pine . This is a popular bar opposite Memory Lounge on the river side. Open till 04:00 or last customer, they play music on request from customers. Lots of regulars here and a casual vibe. ( updated May 2015 )
• 16.0737 108.2244 4 Green Town Bar , 50 Bach Dang St . One of relatively few bars open past the witching hour and most expats drop in there for either an early evening or late night drink. The view is excellent with an outdoor terrace and 2 big pool tables inside. The prices are very reasonable. Food is available until 22:00.  
• 16.0826 108.221 5 New Phuong Dong Disco , 20 Dong Da ( near the mouth of the Han River ). New Phuong Dong has a resident Ghanaian DJ and many visiting singers from Saigon and Hanoi.  
• 16.0602 108.2102 6 Red Hot Bar , 179 Nguyen Van Linh ( on Nguyen Van Linh St ). A real late night place. ("Late night" is more flexible in Da Nang than in Hanoi. Most of the time discos and places like Red Hot, an approximations of a Thai girlie-bar, close at 01:00 or 01:30, but if the police decide to crack down, they may unexpectedly close at midnight or 00:30).  

Coffee is a large part of the Vietnamese culture and it's enjoyed differently from place to place. Coffee served in Da Nang and throughout Central Vietnam tends to be stronger than coffee served in the south. One of the most popular variations of coffee in the south is "cà phê sữa đá Sài Gòn" which is coffee prepared in a "phin" filter and served with sweetened condensed milk in a tall glass filled with small cubes of ice. When in doubt what type of coffee to get this is the one to order. In Da Nang and throughout central Vietnam they tend to drink a style of coffee called "cà phê phin sữa đá Đà Nẵng" which is similar to "cà phê sữa đá Sài Gòn" but is instead served in a short glass with one large block of ice, which melts as slowly as the coffee drips down from its metal filter—leaving them time to chat with friends, colleagues, or whoever might be sitting nearby. A common variation is "cà phê sữa đá Đà Nẵng" which is similar except the coffee is brewed before serving as some places brew their coffee in batches. Try both the Saigon and Danang versions. On cold days many will drink "cà phê sữa nóng" which is a hot and very strong coffee with sweetened condensed milk served in a 100 ml glass. Expect to pay 15,000 to 30,000 dong.

There are several kinds of coffee shop in Da Nang, from street-side cà phê cóc , through mid-class shops to more luxurious ones. Most offer Wi-Fi nowadays, in case you want a place to relax and get online.

• 16.058026 108.243085 7 Ngoi Café . A inexpensive and comfortable little café. ( updated Dec 2023 )

Walk down any street in Da Nang and you will no doubt come across a group of Vietnamese men squatting on tiny plastic chairs, sipping cups of coffee—often sold out of a cooler or a drink cart—as they chat with friends or playing Chinese chess. This is cà phê cóc (literally, "frog coffee" , from the way patrons squat to drink):

• 16.07364 108.24148 8 Ca Fe 49 , 49 Loseby, Phước Mỹ, Sơn Trà ( take Phạm Văn Đồng east until the end, turn left onto Võ Nguyên Giáp, take second left onto Loseby ), ☏ +84 236 3932 995 . 06:00-15:00 . Ca Fe 49 is a simple, family-run, outdoor cafe serving excellent coffee at a good price. Enjoy a "cà phê sữa đá Đà Nẵng" while enjoying a quiet view. The husband and wife owners are friendly. Recommend if you are out in Sơn Trà. US$1 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 16.07486 108.21995 9 Long Coffee , 123 Le Loi ( corner of Le Loi and Quang Trung St ). Crazy popular cà phê cóc -style coffee shop in Da Nang that serves and sells its own brand of coffee—not the best, according to some, but very popular with locals. It's always busy, noisy and smoky, but that's part of the atmosphere. Go there with a local friend to shoot the breeze and enjoy a quintessential Vietnamese experience.  

Mid-class shops are found everywhere; the drinks are quite cheap and they are a place to relax or meet friends. A step up from cà phê cóc , these shops are usually quite comfortable and serve a variety of non-alcoholic drinks besides coffee, such as tea, smoothies and fruit juices.

• 16.0495 108.2471 10 An's Café , 5 Hoàng Kế Viêm ( corner of Le Loi and Quang Trung St ).  
• 16.064 108.21915 11 Café Vi Lan , 79 Le Hong Phong St , ☏ +84 511 3565 346 . Comfortable, typical coffee shop that plays soft music and plays HBO movies on mute. Upper floor is air-conditioned.  
• 16.0577 108.2112 12 CheRo , 79 Le Dinh Ly St .  
• 16.05454 108.21722 13 Hai Quynh Café , 468 Hoang Dieu St . Known as the "Rock Coffee Shop", where you can enjoy coffee and listen to rock music at the same time. You can request songs. Usually, they play ballads and soft rock in the daytime and hard rock and metal in the evening (very loudly).  
• Scorpions , 140 Yen Bai St .  
• 16.0643 108.222 14 Tuy Anh Chinese Chess Coffee Shop , 79 Le Dinh Ly St ( on the corner of Do Quang and Le Dinh Ly ). Hangout for coffee-drinking Chinese chess enthusiasts.  
• Highlands Coffee, a Vietnamese coffee chain across Vietnam. The establishment of the Highlands Coffee company marked the first time an overseas Vietnamese was able to register a private company within Vietnam. It has several shops in Da Nang, including Da Nang International Airport.

Luxurious coffee shops can be found on many streets of the city, they are quite nice and elaborately decorated—with higher prices to match. Many can be found along Phan Chau Trinh St. Some incorporate open-air gardens, with air-conditioned areas indoors, and some even feature live music in the evenings.

• 16.08099 108.22198 15 Trúc Lâm Viên , 8 Trần Quý Cáp ( Near Da Nang Port ), ☏ +84 511 3582 428 . 06:30-22:30 . Pleasant garden-style café. Food is a little expensive; worth it mainly for the décor. Tends to be busy. ( updated Mar 2018 )

Long gone are the days when backpacker lodges nestled by the palm trees at My Khe beach. Today virtually the entire 40 kilometer stretch down to Hoi An is covered in hotels, hotels and construction sites for yet more hotels, and this is where the vast majority of visitors to the city will end up.

As a rule of thumb, hotels at the north end closer to the city are high-rise, set back from the ocean and often cramped, but offer easy access to the city and tons of eating options. The further south you go, the more spacious and resort-like they become, but getting anywhere at all will require a lengthy cab ride. Prices run the gamut, with Western brands charging a heavy premium for predictable dependability, while local hotels often cater more to local tour groups.

There are many small hotels along the east side of the river (Tran Hung Dao St), which may be as cheap as 90,000 dong for a double room and have Wi-Fi, hot water, air-con, tv and fridge. Pham Phu Thu is a good street with many budget hotels in the center on the west side of the river.

• 16.069502 108.218981 1 Danang Backpackers Hostel , 106 Nguyen Chi Thanh , ☏ +84915571505 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Cheap, clean and spacious hostel. Breakfast included, free playing billiards, free beer every night, fast Wi-Fi. Comfy beds, A/C, hot shower. English speaking staff 24/7. US$6 . ( updated Jun 2015 )
• 16.0663 108.243 2 Dang Viet Hotel , 11-12 Ho Nghinh ( one minute to the beach ), ☏ +84 5 1139 41445 , [email protected] . Air-con, comfortable beds, fast Wi-Fi, hot showers, refrigerator and international cable TV. Staff speak English. From 300,000 dong .  
• 16.0717 108.2148 3 Funtastic Hostel , 115 Hai Phong ( 500 m east of train station ), [email protected] . Modern hostel with comfy beds, big lockers, good Wi-Fi and friendly English speaking staff. Breakfast on the rooftop, with some nice views, is included and the hostel offers a free daily shuttle to Hoi An and airport dropoff. Dorm: 150,000-180,000 dong, Double: 430,000 dong . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 16.068385 108.243764 4 Funtastic Beach Hostel , 5 Hà Bổng, Phước Mỹ, Sơn Trà ( East on Phạm Văn Đồng until end, right onto Võ Nguyên Giáp, first right at Đình Nghệ, first left at Hà Bổng and first right into the alley. Funtastic is the yellow building on the left. ), ☏ +84 2363 928 789 . Sister hostel to the Funtastic [City] Hostel on Hai Phong and very similar except it's a three minute walk to the beach. Excellent staff most of which speak English. Ask them about their local restaurant suggestions and their food tour. 160,000 dong . ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 16.0289 108.2473 5 Nhà Nghỉ Cát Tường ( Nha Nghi 278 ), 278 Lê Đại Hành, Hòa Thọ Đông, Cẩm Lệ ( from the airport head south on Nguyễn Hữu Thọ, turn right onto Lê Đại Hành ), ☏ +84 5 1138 44877 . Cheap, but nice guesthouse with Wi-Fi, hot water, air-con. Possibly closed. Call first. 200,000 dong for a single room .  
• 16.0773 108.2168 6 Thien Duc Motel , 187 Dong Da , ☏ +84 511 382 5232 . An OK option, although services are far from superior. US$8 .  
• 16.07259 108.237109 7 Danang Carpe Diem Hostel , Dinh Thi Hoa Street, An Hai Bac Ward, Son Tra District , ☏ +84969347968 , [email protected] . Check-in: noon , check-out: noon . Complimentary breakfast consisting of specialities, sausage, bacon, ham, fresh fruits, eggs any style, bread and homemade jam every morning. High security standard of key card access, free wifi in all area, big lockers, free luggage storage on check out day and quick laundry service.Front desk is always available, US$10 .  
• 16.0728 108.2421 8 Sea Wonder Hotel , 57 Nguyen Cong Sau, Phước Mỹ, Sơn Trà ( take Phạm Văn Đồng east, left at Hồ Nghinh and take the fourth left onto Nguyen Cong Sau ), ☏ +84 5 1135 06143 , +84 9 8323 8256 . The Sea Wonder is similar to other basic hotels in the area. The great advantage is that it's on a beautiful and quiet street very near the beach, cafes, taxis and street food. The rooms are clean and the staff friendly. A taxi into the city can be found one street over and costs less than US$2. US$10 . ( updated Mar 2024 )
• 16.072981 108.240361 9 Conical Hats Homestay , 1, Nguyễn Công Sáu, Phước Mỹ, Sơn Trà , ☏ +84 163 714 9914 , [email protected] . Conical Hats Homestay is a family-run, budget, long-term homestay also available for weekly rentals. Located in a new building it's situated in a quiet neighborhood and only a five minute walk to the beach. While lacking some amenities it offers a pleasant change to staying in a hotel or hostel offering a kitchen on the first floor. Lots of great street food and coffee right out the door. The staff is helpful, friendly and speak some English. Email them for details. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 16.048428 108.246545 10 Rom Casa Da Nang , Lot 26 An Thuong 4, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang ( 300m from My Khe Beach ), ☏ +84 901969373 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Unique hostel offering private rooms and dorms in... shipping containers! Pool as well is made out of a container. Rooftop terrace. Common room with board games and table football. Library. Free WiFi accessible from the whole property. All rooms feature AC, lockers, reading lamps, power sockets. On site bar. Working space. Very clean, modern & eco-friendly hostel. Very friendly staff members who speak excellent English. US$12 for dorm beds, US$30 for private rooms (double beds) . ( updated May 2018 )

• 16.0661 108.2224 11 Dai A Hotel , 51, Yen Bai St, Hai Chau District , ☏ +84 5 1182 7532 . A friendly old hotel. The owner is involved with charity. You can visit "the Northwind Broom Workshop" and "Bo Mung Orphanage". US$17-30 . ( updated Mar 2024 )
• 16.06049 108.2462 12 My Khe Beach Hotel 1 and 2 , Truong Sa St ( Just S of the beach plaza & roundabout at Vo Van Kiet Rd ), ☏ +84 511 6260 214 . These old-school low-rise hotels, both under the same management, are comfortable and very reasonably priced especially given that they are just the other side of the beach road from My Khe Beach, but still only a five minute or less moto ride from downtown. My Khe 1 is older, has smaller rooms, but the electricity does not go off in the room when you leave; My Khe 2 has very large rooms, caters more to groups of Saigon tourists (My Khe gets lots of Vietnamese business and government travellers, plus some tourists and some Lao visitors, business or government). Staff at both places are friendly and pleasant, with adequate English. The only downside is no in-room Internet access. From US$18, breakfast included, air-con room with refrigerator and private bath (My Khe 1) or shower (My Khe 2) . ( updated Mar 2024 )
• 16.08873 108.21956 13 Night Sky Hotel . Opened early 2015. Large Samsung TV with lots of good reception cable TV channels. Free breakfast included. Nice quiet location but a little out of town. Their free bicycles more than makes up for that. US$18-35 . ( updated May 2015 )
• 16.0968 108.1453 14 Red Beach Resort and Spa , Nguyen Tat Thanh St, Hoa Hiep Nam Ward, Lien Chieu District , ☏ +84 5 1138 42767 . All rooms are equipped with LCD TV with cable channels, balcony/lanai/terrace, Air conditioning, complimentary breakfast, private toilet, and bath. Restaurant, spa, swimming pool, Pearl Island tour and water sports facilities. From US$72 .  
• 16.066321 108.220332 15 Sanouva Danang Hotel , 68 Phan Chau Trinh , ☏ +84 511 382 3468 , [email protected] . The Sanouva Danang Hotel is a city hotel at the center of Danang. US$40 . ( updated Mar 2024 )
• 16.0782 108.218 16 Sao Minh Business Hotel , 137 Nguyen Du St , ☏ +84 5 1135 30555 . Spacious and cosy rooms, all equipped with air conditioning, TV with cable channels, and mini-bar. Facilities include business centre, restaurant, and bar. ( updated Mar 2024 )
• 16.03887 108.25048 17 Furama Resort , Truong Sa St ( 15 min from Da Nang International Airport ), ☏ +84 5 1138 47333 . One of the first five-star resorts built in Da Nang, and thus unusually spacious. 198 rooms and suites. The resort has its own dive centre, spa, and health centre. Club Tourane opens daily from 20:00-02:00 with a Filipino Band. Hai Van Lounge serves cocktails and light snacks. Many restaurants. From US$175 . ( updated Dec 2022 )
• 16.062516 108.245888 18 Grand Tourane Hotel , 252 Vo Nguyen Giap, Son Tra District ( My Khe Beach ). The hotel includes 189 rooms with 22 floors. It offers 2 conference rooms, restaurant with Asia and Western food. Its facilities include spa and swimming pool, tennis court, fitness room/gym, bar, and café. From US$100 . ( updated Dec 2022 )
• 16.01139 108.26402 19 Hyatt Regency Da Nang , Truong Sa St, Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District , toll-free: +1 800 233-1234 . 200 comfortable rooms and 27 ocean-view villas. From US$200 . ( updated Dec 2022 )
• 16.119605 108.307156 20 InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort , Thọ Quang, Sơn Trà ( Take Phạm Văn Đồng east until the end, turn left onto Võ Nguyên Giáp which turns into Hoàng Sa. Follow Hoàng Sa up the mountain. Look for the large sign on the left. ), ☏ +84 236 3938 888 . This might be the finest hotel in the city. It's where US President Trump, Russian President Putin and other world officials stayed during the 2017 APEC conference. Located in a very secluded area and has a private beach. From US$500 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 16.04348 108.24969 21 Pullman Danang Beach Resort ( formerly Lifestyle Resort ), Truong Sa St, Ngu Hanh Son District ( Bac My An Beach ), ☏ +84 5 1139 58888 . From US$400 . ( updated Mar 2024 )
• 16.07389 108.24475 22 Radisson Danang , 170 Vo Nguyen Giap , ☏ +84 236 3898666 . Opened 2022, this skinny high-rise across the road from the beach typifies the latest wave of hotels in Da Nang. The regular rooms are nothing special, but the spacious corner suites with wraparound balconies have amazing views across the bay and are available in both 2 and 4 person configurations. Solid breakfast buffet and more great views from the rooftop pool/bar on the 21st floor. From US$100 . ( updated Jun 2022 )
• 16.06195 108.24505 23 Sala Danang Beach Hotel , 36-38 Lam Hoanh Street, Son Tra District . ( updated Dec 2022 )
• 16.030771 108.253955 24 TIA Wellness Resort , Vo Nguyen Giap St , ☏ +84 2363 967 999 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Resort with pool villas, offering complimentary wellness classes. $300 and up . ( updated Nov 2022 )
• 16.0693 108.2363 25 Levenin Spa , 231 D. Đình Nghệ, An Hải Bắc, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng , ☏ +84794510520 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2019-3-11 . This place is located in small alleys, chosen by many tourists for relaxation. 10-100$ . ( updated Mar 2024 )

Free Wi-Fi is available in restaurants, cafés, the train station, larger plazas, ho(s)tels, and some supermarket chains.

There are also still plenty of Internet and Gaming cafés scattered around Da Nang that will charge a small fee for an hour's use of web, e-mail, or whatever you like.

There's a convenient post office branch right on Bach Dang Road, right next to the Han River Bridge. There are also major branches in each of Da Nang's districts, so you can drop off a letter or postcard wherever you might be.

• Bach Dang Post Office , 64 Bach Dang Rd ( Next to the Han River Bridge ), ☏ +84 511 3849 054 .  
• Cam Le District , 296 Cach Mang Thang 8 , ☏ +84 511 367 3234 .  
• Lien Chieu District , 138 Nguyễn Lương Bằng , ☏ +84 511 3732 630 .  
• Son Tra District , 4 Trần Quang Diệu , ☏ +84 511 3950 686 .  
• Thanh Khe District , 251 Nguyễn Văn Linh , ☏ +84 511 3652 334 .  

Stay healthy

• 16.05726 108.2177 1 Da Nang Women's Hospital , 26C Chu Văn An , ☏ +84 511 2222 055 , fax : +84 511 2222 056 . The Women's Hospital has a very good reputation in Da Nang for its quality of service, especially for prenatal care. ( updated Apr 2016 )
• 16.06093 108.21534 2 Family Medical Practice , 50-52 Nguyen Van Linh Street , ☏ +84 511 3582 699 , fax : +84 511 3583 049 , [email protected] . Family Medical Practice is a national group with clinics in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Costs are higher than at regular Vietnamese hospitals, but the care is good, and trusted by expats; the resident doctors are expats themselves. Check up from US$70 . ( updated Apr 2016 )
• 16.05944 108.20976 3 Hoan My Hospital , 161 Nguyen Van Linh ( corner of Nguyen Van Linh and Phan Thanh ), ☏ +84 511 3650 676 , fax : +84 511 3650 272 . M-Sa . Established around ten years ago, many expats in Da Nang find Hoan My to be a good approximation of a Western hospital, with many doctors and nursing staff having been trained in America, Europe, Australia, and elsewhere. The downside is that costs of care approach those of Western hospitals but much lower than Family Medical. Checkup 300,000-400,000 dong . ( updated Apr 2016 )

In general, you'll find that Da Nang is a safer and far more laid back city compared to hectic Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. As the number of tourists rises, of course, things begin to change. That doesn't mean you'll have to walk down the street clutching your bag like you would in bigger cities. Still, it pays to observe some rules of thumb to avoid unnecessary hassles:

• Avoid wearing ostentatious jewellery or clothing that flaunts your (comparatively) rich lifestyle.
• Carry cash and copies of important papers in a thin wallet rather than in a large purse.
• It's safe to leave a rented motorbike outside during the day, but be sure to bring it inside during the night.
• While cannabis is fairly common and sold at some bars it's still illegal and possession carries a stiff penalty.

Like other cities in Vietnam, crossing the road can be a challenge, since roads are wide and the traffic never stops. Walk at a predictable pace so motorbikes can swerve around you and try to cross together with locals until you get the hang of it.

One thing to beware of is the standard taxi scam: When going on a long trip to Ba Na Hills, Hue, or elsewhere, an unscrupulous taxi driver may stop and agree to a very low price for a return journey. Once you reach your destination, he triples or quadruples the price, knowing you have no other options. When you do return to your hotel—parking the car slightly away or out of sight of the main entrance—he locks the doors and demands the price first before letting you go. To avoid getting caught in this kind of situation, stick with taxis from reputable companies such as Mai Linh or Vinasun, and agree a price with them. To play it even safer, take your driver to the hotel reception to confirm the price again and leave the taxi details, including the licence plate number, with hotel reception.

Another scam that appears to be reported for transport from Da Nang airport to Hoi An at night, is that even when the driver confirms that he knows where the hostel is located, at some point he says he needs help from a passerby to locate it and, just by chance, this person will speak English fluently. This person then boards the taxi saying he will help the driver giving directions and eventually will start promoting his business to the passenger. To avoid this scenario it is suggested that for late arrivals a private transfer be arranged with a travel agency or with the hostel in advance. The extra cost may well be worth the peace of mind.

Da Nang is less Westernized than Hanoi or HCMC, so it can be more difficult to feel settled here. All the same, the locals are friendly/curious enough to always be willing to help you, even when there is no common language.

Pulled or accident (motorbike)

Most local "Công An" (pine green uniform) and traffic "CSGT" (tan uniform) police in Da Nang will recognize an International Drivers Permit (IDP) which most likely means a quick traffic stop and being sent on your way after a simple paperwork check. This is less certain out in the country.

Immigration office

• Immigration department , 7 Tran Quy Cap . For visa extensions.  

Legal assistance

• Hoàng Gia , K61/14 Ba thang Hai Street, Hai Chau, Danang.Vietnam , ☏ +84 511 224 4766 , [email protected] . Attorney and certified English translator.  
• Cham Islands – 20   km across the bay from Da Nang
• Hue – The ancient capital and gateway to northern Vietnam, 2 hr by bus
• Hoi An – only 45 minutes away by bus or taxi
• Quy Nhon – If Da Nang is just too much for you, head to this inexpensive and tourist-free alternative, half way to Nha Trang — yet off many people's radar and still a tranquil and authentic, lively and pleasant city with a much (among the locals) hyped beach.

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The Complete Guide to Vietnam

15 must-try vietnamese dishes, 10 best places to visit in vietnam in 2024, ao dai – vietnamese traditional dress, 10 best beaches in vietnam.

• Ho Chi Minh City

The 15 best attractions in Dalat

10 days in vietnam, 2 weeks in vietnam, 3 weeks in vietnam, 1 month in vietnam, bun dau mam tom, the 10 best attractions in da nang.

Da Nang is a famous coastal city in Vietnam, known for its stunning natural beauty and modern infrastructure. Whether you’re a nature lover or seeking adventure, Da Nang offers a variety of attractions. This city has everything from cultural landmarks to stunning beaches and thrilling activities. Here are the 10 best attractions in Da Nang in 2024.

1. My Khe Beach

Recognized as one of the most attractive beaches on the planet by Forbes and voted one of the best beaches in Vietnam by travelers, My Khe Beach should definitely be your first stop when visiting Da Nang. Only 3 kilometers away from the city center and a beach stretching over 900 meters with three main swimming spots, My Khe Beach is gifted with pristine and calm water, making it pleasant to swim in. The beach has powder-white sand lined with coconut trees, creating the perfect image of a tropical vocational beach. In certain parts of the beach, the waves are a bit choppy, especially when there is a strong wind flow, which allows water sports such as board surfing and sailing.

Address:  Vo Nguyen Giap Street, T20, Phuoc My Ward, Son Tra District

Notes and tips:  A wide range of facilities is available at the beach, such as swimsuit and towel rental; food and drinks; lounge beach chair rental, etc. The price for renting a beach chair ranges from 40,000 VND – 60,000 VND.

2. Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills  is known as the most luxurious resort and entertainment complex in Vietnam. Situated at 1,487 meters above sea level, Ba Na Hills offers a pleasant climate and spectacular landscapes. You can experience the interesting transition of the climate within a day, eccentric attractions, endless festival activities, and culinary feasts.

Among all the exciting and unique constructions, the Golden Bridge comes as the most symbolic and recognizable icon of the complex. The  Golden Bridge  was listed in the “top 10 best destinations in the world in 2018” by TIME and “the most spectacular pedestrian bridge” by many other prestigious magazines and travel websites. With its eye-popping architecture and a great testimony to the coming together of nature and humans, a beautiful metaphor to celebrate the power of Mother Nature in supporting humankind.

Another unskippable location in Ba Na Hills is the French Village with the dedication put towards recreating the poetic and romantic French countryside. The highlight is not only the architecture but also the fun-packed activities going on all day here.

Opening hours:  8 AM – 5 PM

Address:  Hoa Vang District, about 20 km from the city center

• 900,000 VND ($36) for adults
• 750,000 VND ($30) for children (1 m – 1.4 m in height)
• Free entrance for children under 1 m

For more information, please visit the official website of Ba Na Hills  here .

Notes and tips :

• Exploring Ba Na Hills will take you a whole day with many outdoor activities so bring extra clothes for change.
• There is a swimming pool in the complex, so you can bring your swimsuit to chill by the pool to cool down the heat at midday.
• The Golden Bridge is packed with people most of the time, so if you want to have it more for yourself, try to come as early as possible in the morning (be aware that the misty fog could obscure the views, though).  Or , you can go for the  Ba Na By Night Combo  – which allows entrance from 3 PM – 10 PM. It means that you can fully embrace the sunset over the bridge and explore the complex under much nicer weather. Also, the tickets are cheaper: 700,000 VND ($30) for adults and 520,000 VND ($22.25) for children. Ba Na By Night Combo is only applied on  Saturdays .

3. Son Tra Peninsula

Not only rich in historical values and strategic economic roles, but  Son Tra Peninsula  is also a precious natural forest ecosystem of Da Nang. Being granted such an advantageous location surrounded by stunning beaches on one side and facing the magnificent mountains on the other side, Son Tra Peninsula is a must-visit destination in Da Nang with many activities to offer.

There are many unprecedentedly gorgeous beaches lying along the peninsula, such as Bai But, Bai Tien Sa, Bai Bac, Bai Nam, etc. These beaches are quieter and less touristy.

Don’t miss Linh Ung Pagoda, located 693 m above sea level, where the tallest Lady Buddha Statue in Vietnam, recognized by UNESCO, is placed. Linh Ung Pagoda has a unique with a fascinating view and a nice breeze from the ocean. This is for sure a must-see attraction that gives you a sense of peace and tranquility.

Address:  Hoang Sa Street, Tho Quang Ward, Son Tra District

Notes and tips: 

• There are three different pagodas with the name Linh Ung Pagoda, so make sure you look for the right one on Son Tra Peninsula.
• If you are driving a motorbike, try to make it to Ban Co Peak. We guarantee you a mesmerizing drive and an unforgettable panoramic view from the top of the mountain.

4. Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son), also known as Non Nuoc mountain, is a landscape including six limestone mountains representing five elements of life in the Eastern belief: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire (comprising two mountains), and Earth. According to the remaining historical records, this was where the Cham people worshiped their gods and held their religious celebrations. Later, an influx of Vietnamese arrived and brought with them Buddhist culture and beliefs, which explains for the diversity and variety of temples and shrines scattered around the mountain complex.

You will be left in awe by the magnificence of the caves and the sacredness of the temples. The cool climate, together with dim light and spreading smoke from incense sticks, will give you good chills.

Tickets : 40,000 VND, free for children under 6 years old

Opening hours:  7 AM – 5:30 PM

Address:  61 Huyen Tran Cong Chua, Ngu Hanh Son District

• Dress appropriately as most of the locations within the mountain complex are religious constructions.
• Try to make it to the caves around midday so you can get the beautiful rays of sunlight.
• This is a good place to get souvenirs with fine ornaments made from marble stones which are nice, affordable, and easy to carry.

5. Asia Park

If you would like to have a break from exploring the natural surroundings and have some fun, Asia Park would be a suggestion. This amusement park houses some interesting records, such as the largest roller-coaster in Vietnam and one of the highest Ferris wheels in the world – the Sun Wheel. Asia Park is particularly suitable for families with kids with more than 20 games, a collection of international cuisines, and diverse performing activities.

Tickets: 

• 200,000 VND ($8.6) for adults
• 100,000 VND ($4.3) for children (1 m – 1.4 m in height)
• Free for children under 1 m

Opening hours:

• Weekdays: 3 PM – 10 PM
• Weekends: 9 AM – 10 PM

Address:  01 Phan Dang Luu, Hai Chau District

Notes and tips:

• Asia Park often holds interesting seasonal festivals and performances; you can check out their official website  here  to update the upcoming performances.
• You will need to pay extra to go on the Sun Wheel, which costs 100,000 VND ($4.3) for adults and 50,000 VND ($2.15) for children (free for children under 1 m).

6. Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge  is a unique bridge in Da Nang, which is seen as a symbol of the prosperity of this city. Indeed, Dragon Bridge has the heaviest weight compared to other bridges in Vietnam with a solid dome structure and a specially designed body using a combination of 5 steel pipes and 15,000 LED bulbs to decorate the dragon model.

What attracts most tourists to the Dragon Bridge is the performance of the dragon breathing water and fire. Watching the performance and sharing the cheering with the locals will be a great experience.

The performance takes place at 9 PM on weekends and public holidays.

Address:  Nguyen Van Linh Street, Phuoc Ninh Ward, Hai Chau District

• Watching the performance from the bridge could give you a close-up view, but you will possibly get wet so you can wear a light wind/rain jacket.
• Some spots with a good view of the performances are along Bach Dang Street and Tran Hung Dao Street.

7. Con Market

Like Ben Thanh Market in  Ho Chi Minh City  and Dong Xuan Market in  Hanoi , Con Market is iconic of Da Nang and a must-visit attraction in this city. Con Market is known as the culinary paradise where you can sample most Vietnamese dishes and, of course, all the local specialties. The market is divided into three sections: indoor food section, outdoor food section, and dried product section. The quality of foods at Con Market is guaranteed, and the prices are totally reasonable, making it the best place for your culinary exploring journey.

Address:  269 ​​Ong Ich Khiem, Hai Chau District

Opening hours:  6 AM –  7:30 PM

• You should come with a hungry stomach and don’t order too much at one vendor because you will have a lot of tasty dishes to experience.
• It is acceptable to bargain for 20% – 30% of the price for souvenirs at the market.

8. Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass (the Sea Clouds Pass ) is one of the most beautiful and also most dangerous passes in Vietnam, connecting Da Nang and  Hue . The pass is famous for its spectacular panoramic view as the highest part is 500 m above sea level. Due to the blind corners and sharp curves, it is only recommended for those who are confident on motorbikes. With a total length of 20 km, the pass is 20 km from Da Nang and 80 km from Hue city, which is a decent distance for a road trip.

Some of the favorite locations on the pass are Hai Van Quan (Gate Hai Van), Don Ca arch bridge, Lang Co viewpoint, and so on.

• Manual motorbikes are recommended for the pass due to high slopes and sudden bends.
• You should combine exploring the pass while you are traveling from Da Nang to Hue (or vice versa), and the best time to go is early morning as you will have more time to stop along the way for the historical remains and viewpoints. Do not cross the pass if you cannot make it before sunset, or it will be extremely dangerous.

9. Phong Nam Ancient Village

Not popularly known among tourists; however, Phong Nam Ancient Village is one of the must-visit destinations, which is only 10 km from Da Nang center.

Established during the Champa Empire, the village carries with it a breadth of hundreds of years of history. Visiting the village, you will have a chance to explore the traditional architecture through the well-remained houses and temples across the area. Phong Nam Ancient Village is a perfect place to enjoy the peaceful countryside landscapes and experience authentic local lifestyles.

Address:  Hoa Vang Province, Da Nang

Notes and tips:  After arriving at the village, it is best to take a walk to closely observe the rustic look and the ancient vibes of the town.

10. Han River Bridge

Cau Song Han (or Han River Bridge) is another eccentric bridge that not only serves as a key transportation facility but is also an interesting tourist attraction. This construction was designed and constructed entirely by the Vietnamese people, which embodies the dedication and devotion of the population of a rising and developing city.

What is special about this bridge is that it will rotate for 90 degrees every day, revealing two waterways for the transport of big boats.

Address:  Intersection of Le Duan Street and Tran Phu Street

• Monday – Friday: 1 AM – 2 AM (in case of high traffic, the bridge will close at 4 AM)
• Saturday – Sunday: 11 PM – midnight
• The bridge will close to public traffic 15 minutes before the scheduled rotating time, so you should regard it when planning your travel.
• The good spots to watch the rotation of the bridge are along Bach Dang Street.
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17 Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam

Top Danang Attractions

Da Nang is a beautiful city in the centre of Vietnam. It offers tourists a huge number of breath-taking attractions along with great activities all year round. Continue to read this article, you will find the best things to do in Da Nang with your friends and family. Some of the Danang best attractions are also revealed right here!  

1.  Visit and Climb Marble Mountain

Located 9 kilometers from Da Nang, the Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone outcrops which are named after the five elements of the universe including water, metal, fire, wood and earth. 

The ancient folklore told that those five mystical Marble Mountains were created by the fragments of a giant dragon’s shell on Non Nuoc Beach . 

Coming to this site, you will have a chance to explore a plenty of statues, pagodas, grottoes and caves. If you like hiking, you can climb the mountains to reach their summits. From these points, you will be able to see the whole view of Da Nang. 

The Marble Mountains are wonderful at anytime of the year. However, if you want to contemplate them at the most beautiful season, you should go in summer, which is from June to August each year. 

Avoid stormy season (from September to November) because the stairs will become slippery and you may fall when climbing the mountains.

Location: 2 Huyen Tran Cong Chua, Hoa Hai, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 07:00 to 17:30 Price Range: VND 40,000

2. Snorkel on Cham Islands

Cham islands , around 50 kilometers from Da Nang city, are among the greatest destinations you should visit in Vietnam. Cham islands (or Cu Lao Cham archipelago) contain 8 small islands. They were recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. 

It is said that Cham islands are cultural-historic areas. They have some vestiges of Cham people’s civilization from hundreds of years ago. In addition, there are also a wide range of leisure activities for tourists to enjoy here. 

Travellers can explore marine life by swimming, boat racing, water skiing, scuba diving and kite flying on the beaches. After that, they can enjoy delicious seafood made by friendly local people.

Location: Tan Hiep, Hoi An, Quang Nam province

3. Visit the Dragon Bridge

Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge is the longest bridge in Vietnam. It crosses the Han River, connecting people to Non Nuoc Beach, My Khe Beach and many other famous spots.

The bridge was constructed in 2011 and officially opened 2 years later. The reason why Vietnamese people made it into the shape of golden Dragon is because Dragon is one of the four holy animals in Vietnam, which represents for the nobility, power and good fortune.

Dragon Bridge is really beautiful, especially in the evening when people turn on colorful LED lights along the 666 meters long of it. In the surroundings areas, there are also lots of restaurants, coffee shops and bars for visitors to enjoy the state-of-the-art view.

Location: Da Nang City Centre, Da Nang

4. Walk Along The Golden Bridge

Golden Bridge, a 150-meter long pedestrian bridge, is a magical destination for tourists in Da Nang city. It has been completely constructed in 2018 but it has attracted thousands of visitors worldwide up to now. 

The unique feature of this construction is its architecture with giant hands holding underneath the elegant bridge. The image makes people think of the God of Mountain’s hands supporting people to Thien Thai garden.

The Golden Bridge has brought inspiration for so many fashion designers. Earlier, it welcomed 7 girls participating in Miss World 2016. Furthermore, it was also used to take wedding photo album for lots of couples. 

Location: Sun World Ba Na Hill, Hoa Phu, Hoa Vang, Da Nang

5. Relax at Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula is known as the old eco-jungle in a young city because it can be seen from every place of Da Nang city. Being home to numerous types of fauna and plants, the attractive scenery and space here is also an ideal area to dance, sing and play chess together.

Son Tra is beautiful both in daytime and nighttime. You can enjoy the peacefulness of twilight as well as the splendid flow of dawn on this charming landscape. 

Near Son Tra Peninsula, you can visit Linh Ung Pagoda , Dong Dinh Museum or 1000-year-old banyan tree. They are also must-see places that you should not skip once coming to Da Nang, Vietnam.

Location: Tho Quang Ward, Da Nang Opening hours: 06:00 to 21:30

6. Sunbathe on My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is a picturesque beach with blue sky, gentle slope, smooth white sand and clear water. It was listed as one of the most luxurious beaches in the world by Forbes Magazine. Once you get here, you will feel released and comfortable after hard-working days.

Near the beach, there are a wide range of hostels, hotels, resorts and villas available for different kinds of visitors. So, after spending time sunbathing on the beach, you can totally relax in a five-star villa to gain back your energy for the next day.

Location: 6 kilometers east from Da Nang

7. Visit The Cham museum

Cham museum exhibits lots of relics of Cham people in the past. It has nearly 300 stone works of art and terracotta dating back from 7th to 15th centuries. 

The most impressive exhibit in Cham museum is the huge stone Buddhist pedestal which describes the Champa king. When looking closely, you will see the statue is carved in such a meticulous way. 

Today, the museum is being preserved well by the government and local people. Therefore, if you go to visit it, you will not be allowed to do anything harmful to ruin the relics in the museum.

Location: Binh Hien, Hai Chau, Da Nang Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm every day

8. Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is well-known for its scenic hillside roads in Vietnam. It is the connection between Da Nang city and Thua Thien Hue Province. Normally, there are several thrill-seeking motorcyclists coming to Hai Van Pass to train their skills.

In 2008, Hai Van Pass was voted to be among “the best coastal roads over the globe” by the UK program. So, why are you hesitating to take on a jeep and experience Hai Van Pass with your friends?

Location: 30 kilometers north of Da Nang

9. Join A Cooking Class

If you love cooking and want to explore the local cuisine, a cooking class in Da Nang is a great option for you. In this class, you will have an opportunity to get valuable insight into the local cuisine. 

There will be instructors guiding participants to local market to buy the ingredients for the food. Then, you will be taught how to create palate-pleasing food by yourself.

>> Check Out Our Hanoi Half-day Cooking Tour with the Master Chef ! 

10. eat the local food.

Whenever coming to a different country, the must-thing you should do is to taste the local food. Here are some recommended restaurants for you.

The first one is Banh Xeo Ba Duong. The restaurant serves customers with a platter of pancakes along with beef, beansprouts, pork, prawns or chicken. There is a bowl of soup made by fishing sauce, sugar, lemon, chili and garlic. 

Location: 280/23 Hoang Dieu Street, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 11:00 to 23:00

The second one is Mi Quang Ba Mua. The food in this restaurant comprises of turmeric-yellow rice noodles, meat toppings and bone broth. If you do not know Vietnamese, you can see the English menu to choose the food you want to eat.

Location: 19 Tran Binh Trong Street, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 06:30 to 21:30

The last one is Bun Cha Ca 109. This family-run restaurant has been famous for nearly 50 years. The setup is very simple with just some low tables, plastic stools and ceiling fans. The Bun Cha Ca they sell includes grilled fishcakes, rice vermicelli noodles, mint leaves and bamboo shoots. 

Location: 109 Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 06:00 to 22:00

11. Visit Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is a mountaintop resort complex that offers a wide range of great activities. For example, you can ride the cable cars, stroll the French Village, ride the Alpine Coaster and take the 4D Death Race experience. Not only serving general entertainment but also Ba Na Hills also serving golf- enthusiasts with Ba Na Hills Golf Club, complementing the inaugural Luke Donald-designed course.

In order to get to Ba Na Hills, you can choose a taxi, motorbike or open bus. The best time to visit is from April to August. This is the peak season when there are thousands of travelers coming to enjoy the atmosphere of Ba Na Hills.

Location: Hoa Vang, Da Nang Opening hours: 07:00 to 22:00 

12. Shop at Han market

Han market has been operated since the 1940s when Vietnam was under French colonial. In this market, there are a number of stalls selling different kinds of products ranging from handicrafts, accessories to vegetables, fruits and food. 

Everything at Han Market is sold at a very reasonable price so you can buy anything you want as souvenirs for your friends and family.

Location: 119, Tran Phu Street, Hau Chai District, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 05:00 to 19:00

13. Enjoy The Non Nuoc Beach

Another famous beach in Da Nang is Non Nuoc. It has an arc shape, white sands, unpolluted water, gentle slope and mild waves, which is very suitable for different types of water sports. 

If you love to discover many more sightseeing, you can visit ancient pagoda, village, cave  or enjoy boating on Co Co River. 

Location: Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang

14. Go Surfing

Thanks to warm climate and expansive beaches, Da Nang is the epicenter of surfing in Vietnam . The ideal season for surfing in Da Nang is between September and March. 

Not only professionals but beginners can also start surfing in Da Nang. It is because there are lots of courses as well as schools that teach this skill for the new people. 

In addition, there are also so many surf shops available along the beach so people can rent boards easily. The price is around 5.00 USD per hour. And of course, the more hours you want to surf on the beach, the more money you have to pay. 

15. Drink Sweet Coconut Coffee

Sweet coconut coffee is one of the most unique drinks that tourists should try when they come to Da Nang, Vietnam. It is a combination of Vietnamese coffee, coconut milk and condensed milk that is blended to perfection. 

In different coffee shops, you will be served with different types of sweet coconut coffee. You sometimes will have to blend the mixture yourself. However, whatever type of coconut coffee, you will have a chance to try different taste.

16. Relax at a Sky Bar

If you prefer playing all night long, the ideal place you should go to is a sky bar. In this place, people hold a lot of fun activities to chill themselves. For instance, in Sevva Sky Lounge, you can enjoy a cup of cocktail, listen to soothing music and chat with your friends. 

It is such a great place to relax. You will be served by very friendly waitress and also have enough time to immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere as the bar will not close until 1 am in the morning.

Location: 20 Dong Da Street, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 16:00 to 1:00

17. Have Fun at Asia Park

Asia Park, belonging to Sun Group, is one of the most modern centers of entertainment in Vietnam. It is appropriate for both adults and kids. 

The central point of the park is the Sun Wheel with 115 meters in height. Sitting on this wheel, you will be able to see the whole Da Nang from a higher point. It turns slowly and be very secure to sit in. You will need to pay 150,000 VND for each ride to enjoy the best view ever. 

Additionally, there are many more games for travellers to play such as the Monorail, Happy Choo Choo, Treehouse Playland and Garuda Valley.

Location: 01 Phan Dang Luu Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang Opening hours: Daily 16:00 to 23:00

To sum up, Da Nang is such an awesome place for tourists to experience. Once you come here to discover the life and culture, you will find it even more amazing.

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The 11 Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 23, 2024

From the Marble Mountains to the Son Tra Peninsula, here is the ultimate list of the best things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Da Nang in Central Vietnam is one of those incredible backpacking destinations that is unfortunately skipped by so many travellers.

Many people find themselves being short on time, and rush through Vietnam only aiming for the main destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Long Bay.

Such a shame, because lots of people just don’t realise that there are so many amazing things to do in Da Nang!

The common theme is to fly or catch the train into Da Nang and head straight to the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An, only 30km away. People often use the city simply as a transit stop, and they miss out on so much.

Even for those that know about what to see in Da Nang, this hip and thriving Vietnamese city proves to have a lot going for it. It definitely deserves catching some of your time.

The city of Da Nang is the third-largest in Vietnam and has had a tragic yet fascinating history.

If you are interested to see more of Vietnam, make sure to read our Vietnam Travel Guide !

From the 16th century, Da Nang has steadily grown in size and importance from being a small trading port to becoming a large shipbuilding site in the 19th century.

Eventually, Da Nang became the largest commercial port in the region. It was in Da Nang that the French first landed to conquer the country.

It was also the first place that Europeans arrived in Vietnam when the Portuguese explorer António de Faria anchored off the coast in 1535.

In 1965 the US military arrived and began building air and army bases around the area. The vicinity around Da Nang was heavily affected by the chemical Agent Orange.

The harsh chemical was primarily stored at the international airport in town by the United States, eventually seeping into the soil and water supply.

The Americans used Da Nang, and its gorgeous My Khe Beach (which they called “China Beach”), as a place for rest and recuperation for soldiers fighting elsewhere in the country.

These days its history is all but a distant memory for the youth and travellers who grow up and visit the city.

There is a booming restaurant and food scene developing and its proximity to natural attractions like the Hai Van Pass and the Marble Mountains make it a great place to get out and explore the outdoors.

If you are looking for the best things to do in Da Nang, then look no further than this article!

Don’t miss our complete guide on the  best things to do in Vietnam!

Table of Contents

The Marble Mountains

Take a snorkelling tour to cham island, check out the dragon bridge, son tra peninsula, relax at my khe beach, visit the cham museum, hai van pass, explore the markets and do a cooking class, eat the food, head to the ba na hills, non nuoc beach, best backpacker hostel in da nang, best budget hotel in da nang, best mid-range hotel in da nang, best luxury hotel in da nang – a lot per night, pin it for later, the top things to do in da nang.

You’ve found yourself in the city and are curious about what to do in Da Nang. Do you hit up the coast first, or wander the bustling streets?

Maybe you’re feeling hungry and want to try the famous Vietnamese cuisine!

Or if you are an adventurous person perhaps you long desire to rent a motorbike and hit up the Hai Van Pass.

From the famous Dragon Bridge to the scenery of the Ba Na Hills, to the soft sand of My Khe Beach, there are so many cool things to see and do.

The list of things to do in Danang just goes on and on, but let’s start with the five best activities in Da Nang.

The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son or “Five Elements Mountains) are a cluster of marble and limestone hills just 7km from the city, and one of the best things to do in Da Nang!

The mountains are full of caves, tunnels and Buddhist shrines just waiting to be explored!

Ancient folklore says that a dragon emerged from the sea and laid an egg on the beach. 1000 days and nights passed and eventually, an exquisite lady was born.

The remains of the eggshells grew into the Marble Mountains that you can see today.

Over the centuries the Marble Mountains were used as a safe haven for soldiers and a place of worship for Buddhists. Today it is one of the most popular attractions in the city!

For years the hills were mined for their valuable stone, although that has been recently banned. You can see examples of intricate stonework in the roadside workshops surrounding the Marble Mountains.

If you are feeling energetic you can climb to the summit of one of the mountains, offering absolutely spectacular views over the entire area.

Don’t miss this Da Nang must-see!

Marble Mountains Entrance Fee: 20,000 VND

If you’re interested in going on a guided tour of the Marble Mountains, then the company Get Your Guide offers great value, all-inclusive tours .

Not too far from the coast of Da Nang is Cham Island, a place that not too many tourists get to, but well worth a visit.

This spectacular island is known for having some of the best snorkelling in Vietnam and is a perfect way to spend a day outside of the city.

There are a few different ways to get out there, but the best and most enjoyable way is to join a tour.

This one from Get Your Guide includes pick up from your hotel, the boat cruise, snorkeling and underwater walking (a pretty unique experience) and a delicious seafood lunch.

The Dragon Bridge is one of the best-known Da Nang attractions thanks to its unique design and interesting light show.

When the local government built it, they hired an artist to make it stand out, and the end result was this fantastic dragon-themed design.

Dragon Bridge is 666m in length and is the longest bridge of its kind in all of Vietnam.

Make sure you time your visit to Dragon Bridge to be a weekend because at 9 pm every Saturday and Sunday they turn the lights on and the dragon breathes actual fire!

The beautiful rainforest that juts out into the sea from the city of Da Nang is called the Son Tra Peninsula. At a size of over 4000 hectares, this place is massive!

Rent a scooter or motorcycle to ride along the newly-built road to the end and check out the nature reserve, and stop off to visit one of the most important religious sights in the area, Quan Am.

Keep an eye out for the red shanked duoc langars that live on the Son Tra Peninsula. They are quite beautiful if you catch a glimpse of one!

Son Tra is a perfect getaway from the city and perfect for those wondering what to do in Da Nang.

There are plenty of untouched beaches along the peninsula and some excellent viewpoints, making this one of the most pristine beautiful places to visit in Da Nang.

The beaches here are truly lovely and a real solid reason to visit Da Nang.

The long stretches of white sand are a perfect place to chill out on a hot afternoon, and with so much space it’s easy to find a spot all to yourself.

My Khe is the longest beach in Da Nang, and arguably one of the top ones in the entire country.

Head down to My Khe Beach for sunrise to see locals making the most of the start of the day, or come back in the afternoon for some delicious seafood served up in the restaurants.

If you’re a surfer, this is a perfect spot to come down to catch some small swell.

Vietnam has a fascinating indigenous history, and one of the best places to experience this is the area around Hoi An and Da Nang.

The Cham people lived in this region nearly 1000 years ago, and built some of the most iconic structures in all of Vietnam, such as the UNESCO World Heriage Site: My Son ruins .

If you love your history and want to check out another cool idea for what to do in Da Nang, head to the Cham Museum.

This museum has the largest collection of Cham artifacts in the country, and the statues and carvings you’ll find here are mind-blowing.

If you have more of an interest in Cham history, definitely book yourself into a tour of My Son ruins UNESCO World Heritage Site from Da Nang.

Made famous in an episode of the TV show, Top Gear, the Hai Van Pass has now become a bucket list item for thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts (and amateurs) and adventurers looking for alternative things to do in Da Nang.

This 21km mountain pass between Da Nang and Hue offers some of the most incredible ocean views in all of Vietnam.

A new highway tunnel that has been built to bypass the road ensures that traffic numbers now are low, although the ride can still be quite technical; especially if you are inexperienced or the weather turns bad.

Rent a scooter from town and leave early in the morning if you plan on being back in Da Nang the same day.

There are also a number of tour companies that can help you ride the Hai Van Pass if you aren’t a confident motorbike rider.

Check out our guide on riding the Hai Van Pass.

You can book a full-on motorbike tour of the Hai Van pass on Get Your Guide.

One of the best things to do when travelling around Vietnam is to explore the thousands of markets you can find in every town.

They are an assault on the senses, and it feels as though you can find just about anything you could ever need in them.

Fruits, meats and vegetables are common of course, but so are electrical equipment, housing supplies, health supplements and everything else under the sun.

In Da Nang the markets are truly amazing, but they can be overwhelming to wander through them if you’re not used to the hustle and bustle of Southeast Asian markets.

A great Da Nang activity is to join a cooking class that includes a visit to the markets.

On this tour you’ll be picked up from your accommodation and taken to the markets to pick up the ingredients you’ll need to make some delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

Afterwards you head to a real working farm so you can see how the locals tend to their fields, pick some more vegetables, and then it’s time to head to the kitchen!

You’ll be taught how to make a range of popular Vietnamese dishes, like pho, spring rolls and papaya salad. You can then take this new knowledge home with you to make your own food (and wow your friends)!

It’s a great day out, and one of the top things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam.

We didn’t know that Da Nang had such a happening food scene until we stayed at the amazing Funtastic Hostel, which is sadly now closed.

Owned by Summer from Danang Cuisine, one of the most famous food blogs in the country, she really opened our eyes to the culinary delights around the city.

Naturally, being so close to the ocean, fresh seafood is on many restaurants’ menus. There are plenty of awesome street food to try as well if you are on a budget. For our biggest and best recommendation go eat at Tam’s Pub And Surf Shop.

Make sure you have a few hours spare to listen to Tam’s fascinating stories of what life was like growing up during the war (and try her vegetarian burgers).

If you’re more of a street food type of person, then you’ll have no shortage of restaurants to eat at. Just cruise up and down the road and grab a chair at any of the busy spots!

You’ve probably seen a photo on Instagram of a long bridge high above a mountainous landscape, with huge concrete hands seemingly holding it up.

That spot is in the Ba Na Hills, and you can go visit it yourself!

Besides walking across the bridge and getting your Insta pics, a real highlight in Ba Na Hills is checking out the Linh Ung Pagoda and visiting a minority village.

If you don’t want to ride your own scooter up in Ba Na Hills, you can book a tour that includes the cable car here .

Ba Na Hills is easily one of the coolest things to see near Da Nang.

When people think of Vietnam, surfing is not something that immediately springs to mind. But still, it is possible to go surfing in Vietnam!

There is a growing surf community here who take advantage of the consistent and fun beach breaks along My Khe Beach (known more commonly among American soldiers as China Beach).

If surfing isn’t your scene you can always go for a swim or simply relax on the spotlessly clean sand.

No missing out on some chill-out time when you’re at the beach! Seriously – spending time at the beach is one of the best things to do in Da Nang!

If you really feel like splurging out make sure you check out all the incredible beachside resorts in Da Nang   (and use the code: AGODANMD10 to get 10% off your hotel stay).

Da Nang Travel Guide

Now that you have your itinerary set for Da Nang, we wanted to share our list of best places for a comfortable stay in Da Nang – no matter what your budget may be!

Where to Stay in Da Nang

There are tonnes of great accommodation in Da Nang, from 5-star beachside resorts to funky backpackers and cheap guesthouses. Really the only thing you are limited by is your budget!

NOMADasaurus readers receive an exclusive 10% off when booking their accommodation with agoda . Use the coupon: AGODANMD10

Our favourite hostel in Da Nang has now closed, but a new one has just opened up and is getting amazing reviews thanks to its trendy, funky style.

Rom Casa Hostel Da Nang is a shipping container hostel located between the beach and the Han River, giving it brilliant access to just about everything you would need for your stay in the city.

They know all of the top things to do in Da Nang, so you know you’re visit to the city is going to be perfect.

One of Da Nang’s best-kept secrets in terms of budget places to stay is the Da Nang Beach 2 Hotel . We stumbled across this place the first time we rode into town and couldn’t believe our luck!

It’s only a few minutes stumble to the beach, the staff are amazing, the rooms are bright and clean and the wifi rocks.

There are also heaps of good bars and restaurants within walking distance as well. Highly recommended!

If you want to stay somewhere that is a bit nicer, a bit more modern and has a bit more character, then make sure you head to Sofia Boutique Hotel .

Located right on the beach and only a few kilometres from the city centre, this hotel has room-service, daily housekeeping, safes in the rooms, TVs and just about everything else you could need to kick back and relax in the city, without breaking the bank!

Da Nang just happens to have one of the best luxury hotels in all of Southeast Asia – The Intercontinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort .

Now we’ll be honest – this is the kind of place you look at if you are going on a honeymoon, money isn’t an option or you just want to splash out on somewhere that will blow your mind.

Our friends got married there so we got lucky and had a chance to check out the property. All we say is: WOW!

How to Get to Da Nang

There are a whole bunch of different ways to get to Da Nang city. The easiest, and most efficient, is to fly in.

Da Nang city has an international airport that services a whole bunch of different countries, and has excellent connections with Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

If you want to travel by land, the city of Da Nang is well connected with all of Vietnam via its coastal train system and bus network. You can also check out the options on Bookaway .

If you find somewhere else that is worth staying at in Da Nang make sure you leave a comment below and let us know so we can check it out next time we’re in town! We hope you found tonnes of great information in this post on what to do in Da Nang city! All the best and happy travels.

For those looking for comfortable airport transfers from the airport to Da Nang city, you can book it on Get Your Guide  for cheap.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog post about Da Nang in Central Vietnam! It’s refreshing to see such an informative and captivating guide to this often overlooked destination. Your descriptions of the attractions, from the stunning Marble Mountains to the vibrant Dragon Bridge, have truly sparked my wanderlust. The historical background you provided added depth and made me appreciate the city’s rich heritage even more. Thank you for sharing your passion for Da Nang and inspiring me to explore its hidden treasures. Can’t wait to visit and experience all the amazing things you’ve highlighted in your article! Keep up the fantastic work!

China Beach looks perfect for a morning or late evening stroll, it’s so big that I like the idea of being able to find my own private area away from the crowds, as you said.Danang is a imazing place to travel.

Thank you so much

Non Nuoc Beach is definitely great for a stroll and to be alone. There are so many great places in Danang. Thanks for your comment

We had a fantastic day to bana hills on this trip. Our tour guide was a wonderful guide and he was very funny and accommodating. I would recommend this.

So glad you had a great time. 🙂

You might reconsider your review of Tan’s Surf Burger spot. I went today and the place is a pit, with zero decor, service not good and the famous burger had a strange taste to it. So I give it a one star.

Oh no. That is sad to hear. I hope it was just an off day. The place had no decor when we were there but the food was tasty. Thanks for your comment Steve

Amazing content! It is no doubt that Danang is named the most worth-living city in Vietnam. It has both amazing landscape (hills and beaches) and developed infrastructure. I did enjoy the city and tasty local cuisine. Can’t wait to visit this lovely city again! By the way, keep up your awesome work!

It is a beautiful area. Glad you had a great time. Hope you get back soon. Thank you

Great post! Thank you so much. Beside you can visit Sen Boutique Spa, The best spa in Da Nang

Thank you for your tip. 🙂

Awesome! thanks for sharing. Very inspiring and true 🙂

I also enjoyed these all fabulous fun things during my last journey and came back with great experience.

Hi Harley, so awesome. Glad you had a great time. Thanks for your comment. 🙂

Hi Alesha and Jarryd, it was great to find your blog; stunning pictures & helpful tips! This is really useful. Hope that you will provide us with the more interesting articles about this beautiful country. Thank you so much!!!

Thank you so much. Glad we could help. Vietnam is a stunning country.

Haha I was so lucky to not miss Danang city. It’s truely amazing city in Vietnam. I have followed your post to visit all places as you did, Alesha and Jarryd. I met Mrs Tam and shown her the pic you took. She was so happy. Now, in Danang, it had a stunning Golden Bridge- you should visit when you come back. I also did a cooking class at Jolie Da Nang Cooking Class. Jolie and her family were so welcoming. They helped me to learn how to cook Pho and rice pancake. What amazing Danang is!

Thank you so much for your message Kenny. We are so happy you visited Tam. She is such a special lady. Thank you for these other tips. So glad you enjoyed your time there. 🙂

Hi, Be patient. This is especially pertinent when visiting popular tourist destinations. Everyone is there for the same reasons as you, but don’t expect them all to be considerate of you.

Definitely. We agree. No need to rush. Thank you for your comment

Da Nang is awesome! Moving from Da Nang to Hoi An is not a bad idea. Many thank for information 😀

Agree. It is a great place. Thanks for your comment Jenni 🙂

I jusr saw a pixtures of some rock giant hands holding a bridge in da nang …. i was in da nang and never heard about that bridge does anybody know about it

Its on the way to Bana hill from danang

They just opened it this summer.

If you’re in Da nang, its a must to see the dragon bridge at night. The dragon is covered with beautiful and bright lights, looks aesthetically pleasing to the eye and it also blows water and fire at 9 pm.

Thank you so much for your tip. Dragon Bridge is beautiful at night with it’s lights. Have a great day

Thank you for your efforts. Just arrived at our hotel in DA Nang and going to use your list to explore

Thank you for reading. We hope you have a great time there. If you are into to food, check out Funtastic Hostel for their great food tour.

Danang is probably the ‘most livable’ city for foreigners but still plagued by poor infrastructure, service, pollution, and industrial waste blatantly discharged into the seas/rivers.

The consequence of this are a myriad of food safety issues resulting in countless number of dead fish and other marine life washing up on beaches not long ago.

This combined with poor food safety standards and general lack of awareness/education on proper hygiene makes food consumption very those visiting.

Great blog. I will be in Da Nang for one day, arriving by cruise ship, Nov 3. What do you suggest we do? Is there a city tour company that might be independent of the ship? There will be 6 in our group. I would love to do a cooking class, but the guys won’t agree to that if they can’t also get their walking tour in.

Hi Diana, not too sure about city tours. For transport, maybe hire a van to get around? Sorry we can’t help. Have fun on your cruise. Enjoy Danang.

During my month in Vietnam i had no time left to see da nang, but it looks pretty. x

It was an awesome place. Very different to it’s neighbour, Hoi An. You will have to return and explore Da Nang next time. 🙂

I was researching on what to do in Da Nang and where to stay , thanks for the article. I will be there in december. And hope i can add some more to this thread of comments .

Hope you had a great time. Thank you for reading. 🙂

I’m Da Nang right now, so agree that it’s an amazing place. I’ve done most of the things you’ve mentioned, Ban Co Peak on the peninsula is also a must as is watching the dragon breath fire and water every weekend at 9pm.

Plus the locals are so friendly here. Vietnam is definitely my most favourite country in the region so far. ☺

Thank you for the tip Ant. We are stoked you had a great time. 🙂

Dear Alesha and Jarryd,

Thank you very much for visiting Vietnam and introduce Da Nang to everyone. This is a beautiful article for travelling. There is one small thing I would like to mention. Please don’t use the term China Beach to describe the beach in Da Nang. It is a wrong name which indicates that the beach belongs to China. The beach in Da Nang belongs to Vietnam, not China. Please change that name so that other visitors will not misunderstand it.

Thank you very much, Sincerely,

Thank you <3

Thank you Long Hoang, you are absolutely right, Da Nang never have any beach call China Beach, Please use correct name If you want introduce about Da Nang, thanks

Thank you so much for your interesting post :)) We can’t deny that Da Nang is awesome place.

Thank you so much for sharing Cherry. We really loved Da Nang and are so happy we stopped off there. 🙂

Hi Lesh & Jazza, thank you for this post. You inspired us to discover. Yes, Da Nang is a wonderful city! We’ve been there last week and now I miss the food there so much. Vietnamese pancake and nem lui (ground pork skewers) are really something very amazing that you shouldn’t miss. We had chance to do a food tour there and a home cooking class as well which were all fantastic. We will sure be back to Da Nang!

Once again, thanks for all! 🙂

Oh you are making us hungry Katie. We do miss the Vietnamese food. The food tour sounds amazing. We are so happy we inspired you to go Da Nang. Like you said, it is a wonderful city and a lot of people miss out on it. Thank you so much for reading. Happy travels

Thanks for your post. This is a wonderful city. I and my husband had a great time on the back of motorbikes food tour with girls from Danang foodie. That was fantastic!!! We’ve been too many places that I just saw from your list. All the food was so yummy!! Highly recommend this city 🙂

That sounds amazing Nadia. We missed out on the food tour but will be sure to check it our next time. The food that we did have in Da Nang was divine. We got some great tips on where to go from a local and it was perfect. Thanks for reading.

Wonderful post. Da Nang is wonderful city. Sadly many people have passed it. We truly loved Da Nang with beautiful beaches, wonderful mountains, romantic bridges, friendly people and yummy food…Travellers should not miss out this awesome city. I was impressed by Danang food. My mouth is watering when think about it. In Da Nang, i had chance to to do a Home cooking class with madam Thu and her daughter and had dinner at Tam’s Pub And Surf Shop. Fantastic!

Stoked to hear you loved Da Nang! Such an underrated place 😀

Danang is a good place to travel, we have a lot of choice to go in Da Nang such as Bana Hills, Asian Park, Hai Van Pass, or go Hoi An – 35km far from Da Nang. I really love the seasides in Danang.

Da Nang is amazing 🙂

Da Nang has a great surf School now! The My khe beach has perfect conditions to surf or Stand up paddle, don’t hesitate to visit Da Nang surf school if you like sport and adventure.

Stoked to hear mate. Will check it out if we get back to Da Nang.

Just returned from 10-day trip to Vietnam, where we stayed the majority of days in Danang. Coolest side trip was definitely the Linh Ung Pagoda and the Son Tra Peninsula. We spent a night at the Pullman Beach Resort, which was an oasis of relaxation! Just loved the people, the vibe, the food and the whole essence of Danang!

Cool to hear you liked Da Nang. Such an underrated place.

I never was to Vietnam. But reading your post I think it was just a super place to see mountain. Is there the facility to climb mountain? I like to know about this. And also Marble Mountain is this is the real marble or looking like the marble.

Yes, you can climb the mountain, and it is mostly made of marble.

Great Blog guys, What about a 7th being Ba Na Hills?i believe it has the longest cable car ride in the world! something like 5km, with glorious views and a theme park at the top along with cafes etc. The marble mountains was great too, seeing your photos makes me want to go back again..i remember driving a motorbike from the most northern end of China beach to Hoi An (about 30km) , and then stopping at Marble Mountains on the way home to the hotel, in about 38 deg heat, we were toasted by the end of the day,and then went for dinner at one of the seafood restaurants on China Beach with a few 333’s made it a perfect day

We never made it out to Ba Na Hills, but definitely sounds like it deserves the be the 7th thing to do in Da Nang! Thanks so much for reading Shannon! Happy travels.

Once again thanks for this excellent article… I truly loved Danang, which was one of the highlights of the trip to Vietnam. I would definitely add a 6th reason: the Champa Sculpture Museum, which is in my opinion of the the most stunning ones in Southeast Asia. The audio guide offers a wealth of information on this (at least for me) not well known culture. Cheers Gilles

Ah of course, the Champa Sculpture Museum! We never made it to that unfortunately as I was catching up with my best mate at the time. But I heard amazing things. I will make sure I get to it when we head back to Da Nang! Thanks for the tip buddy!

Champa museum is FANTASTIC…. One of the best I have seen. I found it enchanting…

Totally agree that it is a shame to miss Da Nang. I had an awesome time just walking around, meeting locals who were very curious and wanted to have a coffee or some rice wine, with the funny looking foreigner. 🙂

Very cool adventure you guys are having btw! Thanks for sharing!

Da Nang is such a vibrant, cool city. Glad to hear you loved it as well. Thanks for following along, Marcus. Happy travels 😀

when going to marble mountain, or china beach, do stop in at Hoa’s place, famous food and great hospitality M.Hoa and his wife Giao are legends in serving great food

We’re bummed that they were out of town when we came through. We’ll be back in the area soon enough though. Will make sure we meet up with Hoa and Giao. Thanks Sylvio!

Hi Lesh & Jazza,

Thanks for this input, I belong to the huge majority planning just to use Danang as a stop on the way to Hoi An. I would never have actually considered staying there, but your post made me curious. And with a good Hostel (Funtastic) and an owner who has real input to give, that can make it surely a really nice stay. Anyway, I will be in Vietnam in about 4 weeks (for 5 weeks) and might very well adapt my plans… Cheers Gilles

If you end up hanging out in Da Nang (and staying at Funtastic with Summer and Leon), I promise you won’t regret it! 5 weeks is a good amount of time to spend in Vietnam. We’ll be chilling in Phong Nha – let us know if you end up coming through that place. You should, it’s incredible! Thanks for reading 😀

China Beach looks perfect for a morning or late evening stroll, it’s so big that I like the idea of being able to find my own private area away from the crowds, as you said. One day we’ll make to Vietnam 🙂

China Beach really is perfect. Because Da Nang has so many high-end resorts as well, the council spends a good amount of money on rubbish collecting, so the beach is really clean.

Hi, Danang is a imazing place to travel. I love Bana Hills, Art in Paradise Danang (3D Trick Art museum), Hai Van Pass, Hoi An.Special We have My Khe beach (Not China beach, plz don’t use wrong name). Plz change that name.

Thank you so much Huong

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10 Days Da Nang Itinerary: Things to do in this beach city of Vietnam! (Part 1)

Need ideas on where to travel to? Check out our 10 Days Da Nang Itinerary . We’d thought 10 days was more than enough time to spend in the beach city of Vietnam. But it wasn’t. 

Towards the end of the trip, we were sad that the holiday was coming to an end and were hoping to have a few more days to enjoy the magnificent sea view at our last hotel of the trip .

Let me share with you our very relaxing and loose 10-day itinerary in Da Nang, Vietnam. Remember, the theme of this trip is “RELAX & REJUVENATE!”.

10 Days in Da Nang: Is it too long? 

Thought I should provide some background on why we decided to spend 10 days in Da Nang. Having come out of a 2-year Covid pandemic, I’ve had too many days of leave to clear.

Therefore, even though most online resources suggested 3 to 5 days in Da Nang, we planned a 10 days trip. We thought that could make our stay there more relaxing. Indeed, it was! Planning was easy as we basically did just one or two things a day.

>> MUST-READ: Da Nang Itinerary Part 2 (Day 6 to 10)

But if you aren’t dying to clear your leave, then you could possibly combine some activities into one day (which I’ll share tips on how you can do so). 

Without any further ado, let me share with you a day-by-day account and tips on our wonderful Da Nang trip. It was a great trip and we were so sad to leave Da Nang, Vietnam.

Oh, had I said it already? :)

Which airline should you choose? 

I went to Da Nang first via Singapore Airlines and paid over $400, while my partner travelled by VietJet and we met in Da Nang like lovers! LOL! Let me share the pros and cons of each airline. 

1. SIA (Singapore to Da Nang)

SIA’s flight to Da Nang was via an old airplane (737-800) and it didn’t have personalised entertainment system. Though they said that you can watch entertainment using your own device, it didn’t work for me and it wasn’t an easy process. So, that’s the con. 

But the pros are: 

• No delay in flight date and time
• Served with food, including wine and all
• No long queue when checking-in as plane was small (not so many passengers)

How about VietJet? Well, I didn’t fly on one, but here’s what I know from my partner.

2. VietJet (Singapore to Da Nang)

The reason why my partner flew via VietJet was because he didn’t want to sit in an old plane. Furthermore, since he’s taller, he wanted to upgrade the seat. With VietJet, even after upgrading for a more spacious seat and topping up for food, the price was about half of what I’d paid for SIA’s ticket. 

However, there were downside to the cheap ticket. Both his flights – to and fro – were delayed. His flight to Da Nang was delayed by one day , and this leaves me to enjoy the sea view hotel and have its king-sized bed all to myself which I totally appreciated. Ha Ha Ha! 

His return flight was also delayed, but fortunately by only a few hours. I also heard that the food he topped up for was mediocre. 

So, you can decide your comfort level. If you fly by VietJet, you may want to leave your hotel booking opened. Do also buy travel insurance which may help with some compensation.  

Day 1: Arrive in Da Nang, Enjoy Sea view & Evening Spa

Hello, Da Nang! I was welcomed by a beautiful sky view of Da Nang when the plane was about to land.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t book any 4G SIM card via Klook as it was somehow unavailable. That forced me to buy an expensive SIM card within the transit area of Da Nang (180k VND).

I then booked a Grab transport and paid about 100k VND to get to the beach area where the first hotel of my trip was located. 

Check out this view of the Grand Suite at Minh Toan Safi Ocean Hotel . I totally don’t mind a solo stay here. It’s all mine! Ha ha ha! 

>> RELATED: How we spent 8 Days in Phu Quoc Island & Ho Chi Minh City!

I lingered for a short while, before deciding to take a short 8-minute walk to Min Luxury Spa at 6.40pm . It was short indeed but scary as night fell early in Vietnam. And it seemed like no one really walked on street as the path was so quiet.

In hindsight, I should have taken a detour and walked along the “big” main road.

Thankfully, Min Luxury Spa had an available slot and the price was within my expectation (because I didn’t have a second choice). I chose a Vietnam Traditional Body Massage (60 minutes) for about 420k VND (and added 100k VND as tips) and enjoyed a relaxing session.

If you like to pre-book your session online, there’s this very popular spa package here .

How much to tip for Spa in Da Nang?  Some spa mandated tips within their price, while others leave it open. It was said that tips would normally be about 50k VND for a 60-minute massage and higher if the duration is longer. I paid more because I enjoyed the massage and felt it would help the masseur a lot more than how it would affect our pocket, considering our strong currency exchange. 

After the massage, I had my first meal of the trip in Vietnam. To be honest, it was quite difficult for me to choose an F&B outlet for solo-dining as most of them were seafood restaurants. I sat in one initially and struggled to order as each dish was meant for many. Ha Ha! You can read about that restaurant here as I revisited it on Day 9.  

Anyway, I was happy with my ultimate choice at Am Thuc Xeo restaurant where I ordered a Banh Xeo that seemed small enough to be eaten by one person. But what came was a huge platter of veggies which caught me by surprise. The waitress explained through Google translate that those were “accompaniment”.

She was so kind to come back with a pair of gloves to demonstrate how I should enjoy the local dish, i.e. to wrap the Banh Xeo (crepe) with rice paper with veggies and all. It was delicious…exactly the kind of thing a salad lover would enjoy. By sheer luck, I happened to order something that suited my palate to a tee – that’s nice!

The young waitress was rewarded with a tip. :) And the whole meal that filled the entire table didn’t even cost me S$10. 

Map Location for Day 1 Da Nang Itinerary

Da Nang Airport >> Buy SIM card >> Grab to Hotel >> Check in Minh Toan Safi Ocean Hotel >> Min Luxury Spa >> Dinner at Am Thuc Xeo

Day 2: Sun World Asia Park & Family-Friendly Night Market

Another precious day of “solo-ness”. Ha Ha! See what I woke up to.

I started the day with a good spread of buffet breakfast at Minh Toan Safi Hotel , before returning to the room to do some blogging.

Woah…I could and should stay a day in the room doing nothing, but admiring the view . But I forced myself to leave by noon as there was something I wanted to do solo, i.e. to have fun at Sun World Asia Park.

My partner is prone to motion sickness and isn’t a fan of theme park…so there’s no point having him there – it would be torturous for him. 

I took a Grab ride to Lotte Mart first, as I thought it would be a happening mall. But, umh…..think that mall was badly affected by Covid?

I don’t know, but I struggled to spend time there. There were some F&B outlets, but limited retail shops (most were closed. Even food court was closed).

There was of course a Lotte Hypermart , but seemed like things weren’t cheap by local or even international standard. 

I got a little hungry and decided to have a drink at Phuc Long Cafe (coffee chain in Vietnam). Woah, the caffeine of my iced latte was “powerful” man! I felt a bit dizzy drinking it.

Also ordered an Oreo cheese cake that was more spongy than I was expecting from a cheese cake. 

>> MUST-READ: How we spent a day in Hoi An Ancient Town 

Finally, it was 3pm and I strolled to Sun World Asia Park  in the drizzle. Admission was cheap, at 200k VND. You can get even cheaper Asia Park tickets here . 

If you like to skip the rides and just do the sun wheel, you will pay just half the price – select the option accordingly here . But I felt the former (all-in-one) was a much better deal. 

TIP: Do not bring all your precious belongings to Sun World Asia Park, because you would be asked to deposit your bag in a locker before each ride. The locker has no locks, and is merely guarded by “surveillance camera”. I declined the first few rides but realised I had to succumb to the system if I wanted to have any rides there at all.

Sun World Asia park was too quiet, but the good thing was the minimal queue to each ride. When my partner finally arrived in Da Nang, he checked into hotel before meeting me at Asia Park nearing evening.

We took the Sun Wheel together and took in the night scene of the city. The theme park also looked more happening at night, with the colourful lightings and all. 

>> RELATED: Ba Na Hills Guide: Is this Da Nang Resort worth a visit?

Thereafter, we walked to a nearby night market known on Google map as Khu Ẩm thực đêm Helio ( see map ) . It was a family-friendly night market with live performance, mini amusement rides and local food, of course!

Saw lots of people posing for photos with its Instagram-friendly façade. After dinner, we grabbed back to hotel and called it a day.

>> MUST-READ: How we spent a day in Hoi An Ancient Town

Map Location for Day 2 Da Nang Itinerary

Lotte Mart >> Sun World Asia Park >>  Night Market ( Khu Ẩm thực đêm Helio )

Day 3: Bac My An Market, Son Tra Night Market & Dragon Bridge

Once again, we started the day with a sumptuous breakfast spread from Minh Toan Safi Ocean Hotel . Since it’s a relaxing trip which we have 10 days to spare, we decided to spend the morning at the gym, beach and hotel pool. 

TIP: If you don’t want to waste this much time on gym and pool like us, you can take a look at this Da Nang day tour that brings you to Da Nang’s signature attractions, such as Marble Mountains and Linh Ung pagoda. 

By 3.30pm, we were ready to venture out to a day market – Bac My An Market. Google review of the market was good, but I didn’t quite enjoy my stay there as it was a little “too local” and cramp for me. 

Think this day market could be good for domestic tourists or expats who would be staying there in the longer term (and buying fresh produce). 

Happened to see people crowding at a popular stall selling Avocado Coconut Ice Cream and we had to try it (50k for two cups). It was not bad! 

Then, randomly ordered a main dish not knowing what it was as nothing was in English here. It tasted ok….a bit cold, and came with an intestine, probably from pork?  

The alley was wet and crowded. Beware of opportunistic person with wild hands. If possible, dress conservatively here because people here were mostly well covered-up.

The trip to Bac My An Market didn’t last long and we found ourselves walking quite an uncomfortable journey to the river side (Da Nang is not friendly for walking or road-crossing). Had a break at a random cafe – River Coffee – which like many of the shops and cafes in Da Nang were not air-conditioned.

Here’s my salty coffee which I found too sweet for my palate! But oh well, I have to get used to local coffee, which made use of condensed milk more than unsweetened milk or creamer.

TIP: We had too much spare time and found it a drag to kill time. In hind sight, we could have gone for this very affordable Han River Cruise .

Finally dragged our time till Son Tra Night Market was opened in the evening, and ordered a 700k VND worth of  seafood bundle . That’s about SGD42, and comprised two lobsters, prawns, octopus, clams, oysters and more. What a steal! 

Just really really hot dining there because part of the seafood was served in a hot pot. Eating this in a hot Vietnam would make one sweat profusely. So maybe we should revisit Da Nang during colder months like January to March. 

TIP : Vietnam was very hot in Jun/Jul…hotter than in Singapore. Not surprising to see 34 to 36 degree Celsius. And very common to be soaked to undies if you venture out in the day. 

After the meal, we walked past DHC marina and took photo with a water-spouting dragon (Tượng Cá Chép Hóa Rồng) that reminded me of our Merlion.

It was a also a great spot to see the Dragon Bridge though it was way too early for the fire-spitting show at 9pm.

TIP: Fire-spitting show takes place at 9pm on Sat and Sun. 

We almost wanted to give the weekend “fire” show a miss, which we should have in hind sight. Had we known the massive crowd such a fire-spitting show would draw, we would have “siam” ( avoid ) the show at all cost!

Look at the crowd, not just along the pavement, but along the road. Traffic basically came to a standstill! Can you believe it? 

It was painful getting out of the crowd or getting back to hotel. Calling grab was quite impossible due to the traffic jam and we had to walk more than half an hour away from the “hot” spot, before the path was clear enough to call for Grab.

TIP: Do google Vietnam’s public holiday or school holiday when planning your trip as Da Nang was well visited by domestic travellers.

I was deadbeat by the time I returned to hotel. What a day! ;~)

Map Location for Day 3 Da Nang Itinerary

Hotel Gym & Pool >> Phuoc My Beach >> Bac My An Market >> River Coffee Cafe >> Son Tra Night Market >> Water-spouting dragon >> Dragon Bridge 

Day 4: Beach Hopping Day in Danang

Chanced upon sunrise when I got up early for a toilet run, at around 5am. To my surprise, there were so many people at the beach, with some in the water enjoying the sun rising while others were jogging. 

>> RELATED: Sunrise view over Han River at Hilton Hotel (Day 7)

I went back to sleep, and later woke up once again for my daily buffet breakfast at Minh Toan Ocean Hotel . How not to get fat? Check out this post to see how much weight I’d put on after the trip. :~(

Went to the gym again, before deciding that the day’s itinerary would be to walk to a western restaurant – Bikini Bottom Express , which would require us to walk past My Khe Beach.

Google must have underestimated the distance as it took us about 50 minutes to reach the restaurant…by foot! :~)

Luckily, the food at Bikini Bottom Express was good! Having had Vietnamese cuisine for so many days in a row, the western burger was refreshing and I enjoyed my classic burger, truffle fries and coconut coffee!

On the way back, we spent some time at My Khe Beach . This part of the beach definitely has a lot more beach vibes than the area we stayed in which was further north of the stretch.

In hindsight, we should have stayed a couple of days here as it has more “beach feel” and amenities. We were initially considering Haian Beach Hotel , which is located at this more happening part of the beach. Do take a look if you are interested.

One memorable thing during our long walk along the beach was the sheer number of people in the water . That really killed our interest in getting into the water. 

For info, we were there in June/July, during Vietnam’s summer holiday. 

By the time we walked back to the hotel, my legs were jelly and I was deadbeat.

Took the opportunity to enjoy a tub-soaking session and sheet mask, since I didn’t have the energy to do anything else. Whee! The hot water was such a relief to my aching calves.

Map Location for Day 4 Da Nang Itinerary

Sunrise view at Minh Toan Ocean Hotel >> Walk along the Beach >> Bikini Bottom restaurant >> My Khe Beach  

Day 5: Shift to Da Nang City Centre (enjoyed river view)

Today, we would check out of Minh Toan Safi Ocean Hotel and shift to a hotel on the other side of the river. That is, we would be staying away from the beach and within the City Centre.

After our last round of buffet breakfast at Minh Toan Hotel, we returned to the room to enjoy the last few moments of the superb sea view. 

By noon, we checked out and “grabbed” to our second hotel of the trip – Hilton Da Nang Hotel , which was located next to the river. Since Hilton didn’t allow check in till 3pm, we decided that it would be good to send our clothes to the laundry.

Then, the man got hungry (again) and had Pho at Quan Pho Hong restaurant ( see map ). It was an extremely hot day and we struggled within the non-airconditioned restaurant, sipping our coconut water.

The plan was to go to Da Nang Museum , but the place wasn’t opened during lunchtime, and we had to wait till 2pm, which was torturous due to the heat.

When it was finally 2pm, we tried to make our way to Da Nang Museum which seemed so near based on Google Map. But you won’t believe how many people I had to ask for directions to get there. LOL!

Finally, I got into the museum, but was soaked thoroughly in perspiration within my jogging pants. Nope, I had no mood to tour the non-airconditioned museum in this state.

After walking one quick round on the first floor of the dated museum, I told myself I would return to complete the tour but didn’t. :P

We then returned to check in Hilton Hotel , took a quick shower to freshen up and then went out to look for food (again). Our first try was at Indochina Mall , but food option was limited at this small mall. We were in and out within minutes. :P

Han Market was our next try and it was supposed to offer lots of food and merchandise. But we were still reminded of our earlier experience at a day market (Bac My An) and preferred to eat in comfort (space-wise), and to know what we would be eating. 

TIP : If you are near Han Market, you can walk to Da Nang Cathedral which is another attraction in Da Nang.

While scanning for reviews on Google Map, we found a random street stall selling Banh Mi . Ordered a grilled chicken Vietnamese bread and enjoyed the crispy bread which was surprisingly easy to bite into. 

The next stop was at Aroi Cafe , which was popular for its bear bear mousse cake and river view from its 3rd floor terrace. Due to personal preference, I didn’t exactly enjoy the sweet mousse cake, but read that many loved it. The price of drinks and dessert was also very reasonable.

Went up to the third floor via a spiral staircase and found the terrace too hot to enjoy in the day. But the view of the river was nice!

It may be a better idea to come here when the sun is about to set.

When night fell, we revisited Son Tra Night Market again. Instead of a bundle seafood set, the man ordered a big lobster (550k VND), a dozen of oysters (100k VND) and some prawns plus a lot of local snacks.

It was once again a day of indulgence (and I admire his stomach space and his calories-killing muscles). But the sad thing was that his big lobster wasn’t that fresh as compared to the bundle seafood we had the previous round. 

Map Location for Day 5 Da Nang Itinerary

Check in Hilton Da Nang Hotel >> Laundry >> Quan Pho Hong restaurant >> Da Nang Museum >> Indochina Mall >> Han Market >> Da Nang Cathedral >> Street-side Banh Mi >> Aroi Cafe >> Son Tra Night Market

Alright, that’s all to Part 1 of our 10-day Da Nang itinerary. Do check out Part 2 to see the fun-filled things we did from Day 6 to Day 10 , such as visiting Hoi Ann and Ba Na hills. 

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Simple Flying

Malaysia airlines launches boeing 737 flights to da nang.

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Airlines adjust their networks as a matter of course, so while Malaysia Airlines has recently cut some of its services, last week, the full-service carrier launched its inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Da Nang in Vietnam. The new route will operate daily, although the flight times differ depending on the day.

A new connection between Malaysia and Vietnam

Last Tuesday, Malaysia Airlines celebrated the successful launch of its new service to Da Nang, the fourth-largest city in Vietnam and one of the nation's most important port cities.

Da Nang is the commercial and educational center of Central Vietnam. It is within 62 miles of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Imperial City of Hue and the Old Town of Hoi An. Malaysia Airlines will be hoping the daily flights and choice of departure times will entice customers to explore the new destination.

Malaysia Airlines Slashes Frequencies On Routes Refocuses On Safety & Resilience

Malaysia Airlines has decided it would be reducing its capacity in light of recent safety issues.

Yesterday, flight MH748 departed Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) at 12:10 and, after a 2:19-hour flight, arrived at Da Nang International Airport (DAD) at 13:28. The service was operated with a 2012 Boeing 737-800, registration 9M-MLO and MSN 39325, that departed DAD at 14:39 and landed in Kuala Lumpur at 17:55.

On Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, flight MH748 departs Kuala Lumpur at 12:00, and the return leaves Da Nang at 14:40. Passengers wanting to catch an earlier flight can leave KUL at 08:35 on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with flight MH749 leaving Da Nang International at 11:25.

A 90% load factor is an excellent start

Speaking at the launch, Malaysia Airlines Chief Executive Officer Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi said the airline is delighted to have launched its inaugural flight to Da Nang, achieving an impressive load factor of 90%. He noted that achievement reflects the strong demand for travel to the beautiful city of Da Nang and is another significant step toward being the carrier of choice for travelers.

"This new service marks our third destination to Vietnam, not only enhancing connectivity but also opening doors for our passengers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Da Nang, establishing the airline as the gateway to Asia and beyond."

Malaysia Airlines has a well-balanced fleet

According to data from ch-aviation , Malaysia Airlines has a fleet of 92 aircraft, which includes 15 turboprops operating on a wet lease from MASwings. The jet fleet includes six Airbus A330-200s, three A330-200F freighters, 15 A330-300s, seven A350-900s, four Boeing 737 MAX 8s and 42 737-800s . The wet lease aircraft are nine ATR 72-500s and six De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otters.

To commemorate the event, passengers departing Kuala Lumpur were gifted limited-edition postcards, curated in collaboration with photographer Acacia Diana. The postcards showcased stunning artistry that captured the beautiful essence of Da Nang, and on their arrival, passengers were greeted with another colorful event.

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As a full-service carrier , passengers on the flight enjoyed a 20-kilogram (44 pounds) baggage allowance, on-demand inflight entertainment, complimentary WiFi across all cabins and a wide range of meals inspired by iconic Malaysian flavors. With twice-daily flights from London to Kuala Lumpur and additional routes to more than 50 destinations in more than 20 countries, Malaysian airlines provides an exceptional gateway to Asia.

• Commercial Aviation