How to Make the Most of Your Time in Da Nang?

Where is Da Nang located?

Da Nang is smack in the middle of Vietnam, right along the central coast. You can hop on a quick one-hour flight from either Hanoi up north or Ho Chi Minh City down south. This place is a total gem with its gorgeous beaches like My Khe and the awesome Dragon Bridge that lights up after dark.

Da Nang is your gateway to nearby highlights: Hue’s Imperial City (62 miles), Hoi An’s charming old town (19 miles), and the My Son temples (31 miles).

>>> Danang's nickname is "the city of bridges"

Da Nang is the city of bridges, it is famous for its many impressive bridges, including the famous Golden Bridge, which is shaped like a hand and is among the most beautiful bridges in the world.

How to get to Da Nang?

• By Plane: Fly into Da Nang International Airport, just 2 miles (3 km) from the city center. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, and Bamboo Airways offer direct flights from cities like Tokyo, Singapore, and Sydney. From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, it’s only a one-hour flight.
• By Train: Take a train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The journey takes about 15-17 hours from Hanoi, with breathtaking views of the coastline, especially over Hai Van Pass. Book a soft seat or sleeper for a more comfortable ride.
• By Bus: Buses like Sinh Tourist run daily from Hanoi, Hoi An, and other cities. They’re affordable, reliable, and a great option for budget travelers.

How to Get around Da Nang?

• Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab/XanhSM is the go-to option for affordable and efficient rides.
• Motorbike Rental: Rent a motorbike for about 120,000 to 180,000 VND ($5–$7 USD) per day. Don’t forget a helmet and International Driving Permit.

An IDP is a translated version of your national driver’s license, allowing you to drive in other countries. It doesn’t replace your national license but serves as an additional document to help foreign authorities understand your license details.

• It helps you drive legally and handle emergencies abroad.
• You must carry both your IDP and national driver’s license when driving abroad.
• Issued by: Authorized organizations like automobile clubs or driver associations.

• Taxis: Taxis are common, but always choose reputable companies and ask the driver to use the meter.
• Walking: The downtown area along the Han River is perfect for a stroll, especially to enjoy the bridges and riverside atmosphere.

What to do and see in Danang?

1. Excursion to Ba Na Hills

At 1,500 meters above sea level, Ba Na Hills was a French health retreat in the early 1900s. There were about 200 residences there for French settlers in 1940. It is now a well-liked location for both residents and visitors.

The tallest cable car in Vietnam, a gigantic Buddha statue, the well-known Golden Bridge with its "hands of God," the Garden of Love, a recreation of a French village complete with castles and villas, and an entertaining children's amusement park are some of the highlights.

>>> Read More: Ba Na Hill, the road to paradise

2. Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are one of the most captivating things to do in Danang. Located about ten kilometers south of the city, the Marble Mountains bring together five hills made of marble and limestone representing the 5 elements: water, wood, fire, metal and earth.

It is a very famous Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site comprising tunnels, caves with astonishing Buddha statues, pagodas and temples with breathtaking views of the city and the coastline.

3. Relax on the Shores of My Khe Beach

Danang is famous for its stunning beaches, with sunny weather year-round and soft white sand perfect for relaxation or water sports like surfing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Enjoy fresh seafood at beachside restaurants where you can dine with your feet in the sand.

The best beaches of Da Nang are My Khe, Xuan Thieu, Non Nuoc, and Tien Sa.

Which beach to choose during your stay in Da Nang?

• My Khe Beach: Often considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, My Khe has fine sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming. Forbes has named it one of the "most beautiful beaches on the planet."
• Non Nuoc Beach: Located 8 km southeast of the city center, Non Nuoc is also ranked by Forbes as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Beyond these two, Da Nang has many other stunning and easily accessible beaches to explore.

🌊 Adventure awaits in Da Nang and Central Vietnam ⛰️

4. Witness the Dragon Bridge Breathe Fire

If you're looking to discover the essentials of Da Nang, start with a relaxing cyclo-pousse ride through the charming streets, passing by the iconic bridges over the Han River. Be sure to check out the Danang rotating bridge, which pivots 90 degrees at midnight to let boats through before returning an hour later.

The 600-meter-long Dragon Bridge (Rong Bridge), with its striking yellow dragon sculpture, is another must-see. The bridge is illuminated at night, and the dragon breaths water and fire every Saturday and Sunday at 9 p.m., making for an absolutely amazing spectacle.

5. Son Tra Peninsula and Lady Buddha

The Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, is perfect for a nature escape with its jungle, ancient trees, monkeys, and pagoda. This nature reserve is home to diverse, preserved wildlife, including the Douc monkey species.

At the end of the reserve, you’ll find charming beaches nestled in tropical forests. The peninsula is also famous for the Linh Ung Pagoda (Lady Buddha) and its massive 67-meter Buddha statue, the largest in Vietnam, visible for miles.

6. Gieng Troi/ The Well of Heaven 

Giếng Trời, in the Ba Na – Nui Chua Nature Reserve, is perfect for outdoor activities like trekking and camping. From the Ba Na cable car parking, it’s a 7.5 km trail through forests and streams.

The first steep slope is tough, but the rest is easy. It’s a quiet place where two streams merge and flow down the valley.

7. The Cham Sculpture Museum

The Cham Sculpture Museum is a must for history and culture lovers. Founded in 1902 by archaeologist Henri Parmentier and completed in 1919, the museum is housed in a beautiful colonial-era building and holds the world’s largest collection of Cham art and sculpture.

With nearly two thousand artifacts, the museum showcases stunning pieces made from sandstone, terracotta, and copper, highlighting Cham art from the 7th to 15th centuries.

8. Hai Van Pass

On the way to Da Nang, don't miss out on The Ocean Cloud Pass, more commonly called "Hai Van Pass", which is one of the most spectacular panoramic roads in central Vietnam where springs gush from the rocky slopes and where vast rice fields die on the sand, the only border between the land and the sea.

About 20 km long, the pass runs alongside the Bach Ma nature reserve to dive onto the coastline and the splendid bay of Lang Co. A feast for the eyes and a concentrate of thrills! After passing the Ocean Cloud Pass, relax on Lang Co Bay and swim in the bright blue waters of the bay, heaven on earth!

9. Nam O Rock Formation

Named for the old southern entrance of Đại Việt, Nam Ô Rock Formation is located near Hoa Hiep Nam, Da Nang, approximately 17 km from the city center. The region is well-known for its traditional firecracker and fish sauce manufacture, and it is home to a fishing community.
The beach is a favorite location for sunrise and sunset since it is lined with moss-covered rocks in interesting shapes. 

>>> We're here to provide you with Vietnam essential travel tips

10. Explore traditional craft villages of Da Nang

Located 14 km southwest of Da Nang, Cam Ne Village in Hoa Tien, Hoa Vang District, is famous for its traditional flower mats, once used in the Nguyen Dynasty's royal court.

Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, at the foot of the Marble Mountains, is nearly 400 years old and renowned for its intricate stone carvings crafted by skilled artisans.

11. Dinner cruise on the Han River

Take a boat ride down the Han River to see Da Nang from a different angle. The 45-minute cruises, which provide views of the city's bridges and lights, depart four times every evening. You can purchase tickets at the dock or online. 

12. Discover the History of "Ao Dai", Vietnam's Traditional Costume

The Ao Dai Show is a vibrant celebration of Vietnam’s culture, showcasing its evolution from ancient times to the present. This hour-long performance highlights the history of the Ao Dai, featuring traditional attire from royal wear to school uniforms and wedding dresses.

Vietnam's national symbol, the lotus flower, serves as the inspiration for the opening dance of the event, which concludes with a breathtaking display of Ao Dai gowns created by leading Vietnamese designers.

>>> The detailed map of the must-see sites in Da Nang:

Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility

Must-Do Day Trips from Da Nang

• Explore the Lantern-Lit Streets of Hoi An Ancient Town

Referred to as Vietnam's most charming city and the city of lanterns, Hoi An is a tourist's favorite cultural city! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, travelers are seduced by this ancient trading port city, with its century-old wooden houses, its colorful fishing boats, its richly decorated Buddhist temples, its typical Vietnamese markets and above all its atmosphere unique with its many colorful lanterns dotted throughout the streets of the city. An absolutely magical atmosphere!

• The Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)

The Cham Islands, also known as Cu Lao Cham, are a group of eight islands located 20 km off the coast of Hoi An town and 45 km from Danang. These islands offer a marvelous landscape and exceptional biological diversity. 

During your visit to Cu Lao Cham, you will have the opportunity to snorkel and explore the colorful coral reefs of this Cham Islands Biosphere Reserve. 

>>> Read More: Cu Lao Cham Travel Diary: My Authentic Journey to Cham Islands

• Discovery of the My Son sanctuary and the Cham civilization

A must-see for history, architecture, and archaeology lovers is the My Son Sanctuary, just 40 km from Hoi An. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, it attracts visitors with its impressive ruins, offering a glimpse into the ancient Cham civilization. The site features groups of temples and towers made from red brick and sandstone, influenced by both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

>>> Read More: My Son Sanctuary

What to eat in Da Nang?

When passing through central Vietnam, don’t miss these culinary specialties:

• Bánh xèo: A delicious Vietnamese pancake topped with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts.
• Bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo: Pieces of pork wrapped in rice paper.
• Mì Quảng: A flavorful shrimp noodle soup.
• Bún chả cá: A bowl of thin, tasty fish noodles.
• Cầu mộng veal: The city's specialty, veal served with small vegetables and subtly seasoned.

Best time to visit Da Nang

• Dry season (December to August)

Da Nang enjoys a pleasant climate during this period, with hot temperatures from May to August. The city’s stunning beaches, like My Khe, Non Nuoc, and Son Tra Peninsula, remain popular. This is also peak tourist season, with services in full swing, so it’s a good idea to book flights and accommodations in advance for a smooth trip.

• Rainy season (September to November)

The rainy season brings unpredictable weather and possible thunderstorms, so plan accordingly if you visit during this period and check the forecast closely.

My suggested itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Da Nang and enjoy the city’s mix of modern architecture and scenic beaches, spending the night at your hotel.
• Day 2: Explore Marble Mountain’s caves and shrines, then visit the lush Son Tra Peninsula for stunning views of Da Nang.
• Day 3: Visit Ba Na Hills, famous for the Golden Bridge and panoramic views, before relaxing in the afternoon.
• Day 4: Travel to Hoi An to explore its ancient temples, bridges, and lantern-filled streets, with free time to relax or shop.
• Day 5: Enjoy your free time in Hoi An before heading back to Da Nang for your departure.

Our last words,

Visiting Danang Vietnam allows you to spend a complete stay alternating seaside pleasures, cultural visits, natural and taste discoveries. It is an unmissable destination which allows you to easily visit other unmissable sites: Hoi An, Hue… Do you want to discover this welcoming region rich in curiosities?

>>>> Keep your adventure going with the best spots in Central Vietnam:

• Cam Thanh Coconut Village, Hoi An: Top 6 Must-Do Activities
• How to get from Hue to Hoi An: Train, bus or other options?
• Hoi An, Vietnam: The Complete Guide to Sights, Weather & More!
• Top-Rated Hotels in Hoi An: A Star-Studded Guide
• Top 3 Hoi An Beaches That Look Straight Out of a Dream!
• Top 7 Must-Visit Places in Central Vietnam