Da Nang best things to do & travel guide

Da Nang, Vietnam's vibrant coastal city, serves as the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern development. Nestled between the Han River and the South China Sea, this bustling metropolis is renowned for its pristine My Khe Beach, often celebrated as one of Asia's most beautiful coastlines.

The city's iconic Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water on weekends, has become a symbol of Da Nang's dynamic growth. History enthusiasts can explore the ancient Marble Mountains or visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture, while food lovers can indulge in local specialties like mi quang noodles and fresh seafood.

With its strategic location between Hoi An and Da Nang, comfortable climate, and growing reputation as Vietnam's most livable city, Da Nang offers visitors a perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and adventure.

Reasons to visit Da Nang

My Khe Beach

The city boasts stunning beaches like My Khe Beach, with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for both relaxation and water sports.

Da Nang's iconic landmarks, including the Dragon Bridge with its fire and water shows and the famous Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, offer unique photo opportunities and experiences.

Located between Hoi An and Hue, the city serves as an ideal base for exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites and Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.

Food lovers will delight in Da Nang's diverse cuisine, from fresh seafood to local specialties like mi quang noodles and banh xeo pancakes.

The city perfectly balances natural attractions like the Marble Mountains with modern comforts, offering excellent infrastructure and quality accommodations.

What is in this Da Nang travel guide

ℹ️ Practical information 🕝 Best time to visit Da Nang 😎 Best things to do in Da Nang 😴 Best hotels & hostels 🍔 Food & drink

🛬 How to get to Da Nang 🚕 How to get around 🗓️ Itinerary 💬 More tips

Practical information for Da Nang

Recommended days to stay

If you are in Da Nang in the right season, it is a great place to stay for a few days at the beach. If you are desire a bit more culture and things to do, it is recommended to skip this city and stay in the neighboring town of Hoi An.

ATM's & money exchange

Da Nang is one of the major city of Vietnam, therefore ATMs can be found everywhere in the city, including a number at international banks.

Events and holidays in Da Nang

Tet Festival (Lunar New Year)

Typically falls in January or February City-wide celebrations with flower displays Traditional performances and fireworks Special markets and temple visits Family gatherings and traditional food

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival

Usually held in June-July Teams from multiple countries Spectacular pyrotechnic displays over Han River Cultural performances and food festivals Attracts thousands of international visitors

Quan The Am Festival

Mid-Autumn Festival

Celebrated in September or October Traditional lion dances in streets Colorful lantern displays Moon cake celebrations Children's activities and performances

Quan The Am Festival

Buddhist festival in February/March Held at Quan The Am Pagoda Traditional ceremonies and prayers Cultural performances Local food and craft fairs

Each celebration offers unique insights into Vietnamese culture and provides special experiences for visitors. Remember that lunar calendar dates vary each year.

Best time to visit Da Nang

February to May - Moderate temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain make this the most pleasant season for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June to August - Hot, sunny weather is ideal for beach lovers, but coincides with the occasional brief shower. This is also when the spectacular Da Nang International Fireworks Festival takes place.

September to November - Cooling temperatures and drier weather allow for comfortable exploration of attractions like the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills, though occasional storms may occur.

December to January - cooler temperatures and higher rainfall. While this might limit beach activities, it's still suitable for cultural exploration and enjoying the city's indoor attractions. Hotel rates are often lower.

Travelers should avoid the peak rainy season from October to November when typhoons are possible, as well as the hottest period in July.

Best things to do in Da Nang

Explore the Stunning Beaches: Da Nang is home to some of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach, with its pristine white sand and clear blue waters. Visitors can relax, swim, or try water sports like surfing and sailing.

Marvel at the Dragon Bridge: This iconic bridge comes alive on weekends with spectacular fire and water shows, making it a must-visit attraction in the city. Watching the dragon's breath light up the night sky is a truly mesmerizing experience.

Marble Mountains

Venture to the Marble Mountains: These five craggy limestone hills are home to ancient pagodas, caves, and hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the Buddhist sanctuaries and admire the impressive marble carvings.

Museum of Cham Sculpture

Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture: This unique museum showcases an impressive collection of Cham artifacts, providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Champa Kingdom that once thrived in this region.

Ba Na Hills

Golden Bridge

Ride the Cable Car to Ba Na Hills: The scenic cable car ride takes visitors up to the Ba Na Hills, where they can discover the famous Golden Bridge, held up by giant stone hands, as well as French-inspired architecture, gardens, and amusement park rides.

Indulge in Delectable Cuisine: Da Nang is a foodie's paradise, with fresh seafood restaurants, local specialties like mi quang noodles and banh xeo crepes, and vibrant night markets offering a diverse array of Vietnamese culinary delights.

Cruise along the Han River: A leisurely boat ride on the Han River provides a unique perspective of Da Nang's skyline and allows visitors to admire the city's bridges and landmarks from the water.

Best hotels & hostels in Da Nang

Hotels

Furama Resort Danang

A luxurious beachfront resort with multiple pools, spa facilities, and several dining options. It offers stunning views of the East Sea.

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa

This 5-star resort boasts sleek modern design, private beach access, and top-notch amenities like a fitness center and water sports facilities.

Sheraton Grand Danang Resort

Located on the picturesque Vo Nguyen Giap Street, this upscale resort features spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, and easy access to the iconic Dragon Bridge.

Vinpearl Resort & Spa Danang

Part of the renowned Vinpearl brand, this resort offers luxurious accommodations, a private beach, water parks, and a wide range of recreational activities.

Hostels

Serene Danang Hostel

A highly-rated budget-friendly option located close to the beach and city center, with dorm-style rooms and friendly staff.

Cozy Cow Hostel

Offering a cozy, social atmosphere, this hostel features private and shared rooms, a communal kitchen, and fun activities for guests.

Nest Boutique Hostel

This modern hostel boasts sleek, minimalist design and amenities like a rooftop terrace, communal lounge, and bike rentals.

Da Nang Backpackers Hostel

A popular choice among solo travelers and backpackers, this hostel provides dormitory beds, private rooms, and a vibrant social vibe.

For all accommodations, prices vary significantly by season and availability. Always read recent reviews and book through reliable platforms.

Best Food & Drink in Da Nang

Signature Dishes

Mi Quang - A signature noodle dish of central Vietnam, featuring thick, turmeric-infused noodles served with a variety of meat, shrimp, peanuts, and herbs.

Mi Quang Ba Mua

Mi Quang Ba Mua - Famous local spot since 1998 Mi Quang 1A

Mi Quang Ba Vi Quan Mi Quang Ong Hai

Banh Mi - The iconic Vietnamese baguette sandwiches, with fillings like grilled pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Banh Mi Ba Lan

Banh Mi Ba Lan Banh Mi Madam Khanh

Banh Mi Tam Tam Banh Mi Queen

Banh Xeo - Sizzling crepes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and served with fresh herbs and nuoc cham dipping sauce.

Banh Xeo Ba Duong

Banh Xeo Tom Nhay Nam Hien Banh Xeo Ba Duong

Quan Banh Xeo Mien Trung Banh Xeo Hong Van

Cau Lau - A regional noodle dish made with thick, chewy noodles, sliced pork, greens, and a distinctive sauce.

Cao Lau Khong Gian Xua

Cao Lau Khong Gian Xua Cao Lau Nam Pho

Quan Cao Lau Ba Le Cao Lau Thanh

📝 Each restaurant offers their unique take on these classic dishes, and prices are generally reasonable. It's recommended to visit during peak meal times for the freshest servings.

Seafood Specialties

Fresh Seafood Restaurants - Coastal Da Nang is renowned for its abundance of excellent seafood restaurants serving the day's catch, such as grilled squid, steamed crabs, and more.

Seafood Markets - Bustling markets like Han Market offer the opportunity to purchase the freshest local seafood and have it cooked to order.

Cau Dao Seafood Village - This renowned seafood destination features floating houses and restaurants serving the region's best catches straight from the boats.

Street Food & Night Markets

Han Market Night Food Court - This lively night market is a hub for sampling a variety of Vietnamese street food classics like bún chả, bánh mì, and more.

An Thượng Night Market - Explore this night market for a diverse array of local street food, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Bạch Đằng Street Food Stalls - Wander this bustling street to discover authentic local snacks and dishes from family-run food stands.

Drinks

Bia Hơi (Fresh Draft Beer) - Enjoy this local beer, brewed daily, at casual beer halls and street-side cafes.

Artisanal Coffee - Da Nang is home to numerous specialty coffee shops serving high-quality Vietnamese-grown brews and innovative coffee drinks.

Fruit Juices & Smoothies - Take advantage of the region's abundant tropical fruits by indulging in refreshing juices and smoothies.

Remember: Prices are approximate and may vary. Best to bring cash as many local places don't accept cards.

How to get to Da Nang

By Air

Da Nang International Airport is the third-largest airport in Vietnam, with direct flights from major cities in Asia.

Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Jetstar Pacific offer domestic and international connections to Da Nang.

By Train

Da Nang is a major stop on Vietnam's North-South Railway, with trains connecting it to cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Hue.

The train station is located in the city center, providing easy access to hotels and attractions.

By Bus

Long-distance bus services link Da Nang to destinations across Vietnam, including nearby towns and cities.

Buses are a budget-friendly option, with routes and schedules available from various operators.

By Car/Motorbike

Driving to Da Nang is possible, either by renting a car or motorbike.

The city is situated along major highways, making it accessible by road from other parts of the country.

The airport is the most convenient option for most visitors, while trains and buses provide affordable alternatives for domestic travel. Driving or taking a cruise ship offer more flexibility but require more planning.

How to get around Da Nang

Walking

The city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
Major attractions like the Dragon Bridge and Han Market are within walking distance.

Local Buses

An extensive bus network connects key areas of the city, including the airport.
Buses are a budget-friendly and convenient way to get around.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps

Metered taxis are readily available and affordable.
Ride-hailing services like Grab are also popular for short trips.

Motorbike/Scooter Rental

Renting a motorbike or scooter allows for greater flexibility and exploration.
This is a common way for visitors to navigate Da Nang's streets.

Bicycle Rental

Several shops offer bicycle rentals, providing a fun and eco-friendly way to see the city.
Popular routes include along the Han River and to nearby beaches.

The best option depends on your budget, group size, and how much ground you want to cover. Walking, buses, and taxis are the easiest for most visitors, while renting a motorbike or bicycle can enhance your exploration of Da Nang.

Itinerary 2 days in Da Nang

Day 1

9 AM - Start your day at the iconic Dragon Bridge. Time your visit to catch the morning fire and water show, which happens on weekends. Take in the impressive views of the bridge and the Han River. 10 AM - Head to the Marble Mountains, a short drive from the city center. Explore the series of five limestone hills, visiting the ancient caves, Buddhist sanctuaries, and pagodas. Hike up to the top for panoramic views over Da Nang. 12:30 PM - Break for lunch at one of the excellent seafood restaurants along My Khe Beach. Indulge in fresh local specialties like grilled seafood, mi quang noodles, and banh mi sandwiches. 2 PM - Spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine sands of My Khe Beach. Go for a swim, try your hand at water sports like surfing or kayaking, or simply soak up the sun. 5 PM - Head back to the city center and visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture. This unique museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts and sculptures from the ancient Champa Kingdom that once ruled this region. 7 PM - Take an evening stroll along the Han River promenade. Admire the city lights reflected in the river and stop for a drink or snack at one of the riverside cafes and bars.

Day 2

9 AM - Take the scenic cable car up to the Ba Na Hills. Spend a few hours exploring this hilltop resort, which features the iconic Golden Bridge, French-colonial architecture, gardens, and an amusement park. 12 PM - Have lunch at one of the restaurants on the Ba Na Hills hillside, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. 2 PM - Head back down the mountain and explore the vibrant An Thượng Night Market. Wander through the stalls, sampling delicious Vietnamese street food and browsing the local handicrafts and souvenirs. 4 PM - If you have time, consider taking a relaxing boat cruise along the Han River. This allows you to see the city's landmarks and bridges from the water. 6 PM - Spend your final evening strolling along the Han River promenade, watching the city come alive at night.

More tips for traveling in Da Nang

Getting a SIM Card

Pick up a local Vietnamese SIM card with data at the airport or a telecom shop. This will provide affordable internet access during your stay.
Popular providers include Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone.

Navigating with Maps

Download an offline map app like Google Maps or Maps.me to help navigate the city when you don't have internet access.
Many attractions and hotels are well-marked, making it easy to find your way around.

Currency and Payments

The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted, especially at hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls.
For smaller purchases, have some cash on hand, as many street vendors and markets prefer cash payments.

Dressing for the Weather

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, as Da Nang has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather year-round.
Bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially for beach visits.
Pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler months from December to February.

Staying Safe

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure, as with any tourist destination.
Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than unlicensed vehicles.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Cultural Etiquette

Remove your shoes when entering temples, pagodas, and some homes.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
Avoid public displays of affection, which are considered impolite in Vietnam.

Last updated: November 2024

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