Known as the most livable city in Vietnam, Da Nang always tops the priority list for tourist destinations. This independent travel guide from Vietnampeace.com will help you freely explore this beautiful city and capture the most fascinating experiences.

Da Nang is consistently one of the most beloved tourist destinations in Vietnam. People flock to Da Nang for various reasons: the harmonious blend of sea, mountains, and rivers, friendly locals, and the modern lifestyle of a city that’s growing day by day. It’s precisely these factors that keep Da Nang a perennial hot spot for travelers.

Explore the Best Time to Travel to Da Nang

In the South Central region, Da Nang’s climate transitions between the North and South. The city has two distinct seasons: the dry season (January – July) and the rainy season (August – December). The temperature is generally high but mild, making it convenient for travel.

Like other coastal cities, the peak tourist season in Da Nang falls during the summer months (June – August). Students are on break now, and work tends to be less hectic, making it ideal for a mid-year relaxing getaway.

However, according to this Da Nang travel guide, you can visit almost any time of the year since the city is rarely a target for storms. Visiting Da Nang in February – April or the late year will help you avoid crowds and save costs, as hotel prices and Da Nang flight tickets are relatively “soft” compared to the peak season.

How to Travel to Da Nang?

As the third-largest city in the country, Da Nang boasts convenient transportation, and you won’t face much difficulty getting here. You can choose from various modes of transportation based on your budget and schedule.

By Air
Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air have flights to Da Nang International Airport, with ticket prices ranging from 400,000 to 1,600,000 VND/one-way. The flight time from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Da Nang is only about 1 hour. Another advantage is that Da Nang Airport is a 5-minute drive from the city center, making it highly convenient.

By Train
With the train, it takes about 15 – 18 hours to reach Da Nang. Ticket prices range from 230,000 to 2,230,000 VND/one-way, depending on the seat class.
Taking the train not only helps you save costs for your Da Nang trip but also allows you to admire the scenery on both sides of the tracks during the journey. You can check ticket prices and schedules on the Vietnam Railways website.

By Bus
Being centrally located between the North and South, Da Nang is well-connected by buses from other provinces. Most buses are sleepers, providing a comfortable journey lasting 16-20 hours.
From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, major bus companies traveling to Da Nang include Phuong Trang, Mai Linh, and Hoang Long, with ticket prices ranging from 300,000 to 450,000 VND/one-way.

By Motorbike
In addition to the mentioned means of transportation, a motorbike is an ideal choice for those who love adventurous routes. Not only do you have control over your schedule, but with a motorbike, you can also freely admire the surrounding scenery, stop and rest anywhere, and experience the excitement of conquering new roads. Don’t forget to invite friends to ensure safety for your journey.

Means of Transportation When Traveling to Da Nang

In every Da Nang travel guide, the most favored mode of transportation is always the motorbike. You can easily rent a motorbike at hotels in Da Nang; just bring your ID card. Additionally, reputable rental shops include Duy Tuan, Ha Long, Bao Long, and Thanh Ha, charging around 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day.

Besides, taxis are also a convenient means of transportation. Some popular taxi companies in Da Nang are:

– Mai Linh (Phone: 0236.3.56.56.56)
– Song Han (Phone: 0236.3.72.72.72)
– VinaSun Green (Phone: 0236.3.68.68.68)

Moreover, the “tourist city” Da Nang offers various exciting modes of transportation for a more unique experience, such as cyclos, double-decker buses, and river cruises.

Cyclos: A cyclo tour exploring the city costs around 100,000 VND/hour, with the route depending on the traveler’s preferences.

Double-decker buses: Recently introduced, double-decker buses have two main routes for sightseeing: the airport – city center – southern part of the city, and the airport – Son Tra Peninsula – northern part of the city. The ticket price is 250,000 VND/24 hours.

River cruise on the Han River: Being a city of rivers and numerous famous bridges, a river cruise is a fascinating experience to admire the panoramic view of Da Nang at night. The ticket price is 100,000 VND/person/1 hour 30 minutes.

Must-Visit Entertainment Spots When Traveling to Da Nang

The Bridges in Da Nang

It’s no coincidence that Da Nang is known as the city of bridges. Not only in quantity, but the bridges in Da Nang are also famous for their beauty and uniqueness.

Han River Swing Bridge:

The most famous in Da Nang is Vietnam’s first swing bridge, designed by Vietnamese engineers. The bridge rotates 90 degrees from 01:00 – 04:00 on weekdays and 23:00 – 24:00 on weekends to serve tourists’ sightseeing needs.

Location: The ends of the bridge are on Le Duan Street and Pham Van Dong Street.

Dragon Bridge Da Nang:

The image of a giant dragon winding its way across the large bridge has become an iconic symbol of Da Nang. Every Saturday, Sunday, and on holidays at 21:00, the bridge spouts fire and water in a spectacular show. Don’t miss this scene if you’re in Da Nang on the weekend.

Location: Nguyen Van Linh Street, Phuoc Ninh, Da Nang

Love Bridge – Carp-turned-Dragon Statue:

Although recently built, the Love Lock Bridge and the Carp-turned-Dragon Statue area have become a new and popular spot for tourists and locals. The best time to visit is at sunset when the area is lit up in the pale orange light of the setting sun.

Location: Tran Hung Dao Street, Son Tra District

Explore the Natural Wonders of Da Nang

My Khe Beach:

Located in the city center, My Khe is recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches globally and the most famous destination in every Da Nang trip. Besides the blue sea and white sand, My Khe Beach also attracts visitors with water sports such as parasailing, surfing, and coral diving.

How to get to My Khe Beach: Drive along Pham Van Dong Street and cross the Han River Swing Bridge to get there.

Son Tra Peninsula:

Just 8 km from the city center, Son Tra is a unique coastal primeval forest ecosystem in Vietnam. Visitors can explore the magnificent beauty of nature with thousand-year-old banyan trees or the summit of Ban Co Mountain – the best spot to view Da Nang from above. Additionally, Son Tra Peninsula features the Linh Ung Pagoda at Bai But, situated “leaning on the mountain, facing the sea,” offering visitors a peaceful and charming scenery.

Location: Tho Quang Ward, Son Tra District

Ngu Hanh Son

Comprising five limestone mountains, named after the five elements in Ngu Hanh, the most visited mountain is Thuy Son, featuring cave systems and temples within the hill, creating a spiritual atmosphere amidst the majestic nature.
Notable attractions in Ngu Hanh Son include Linh Ung Pagoda (home to a ten-m-high Buddha statue), Huyen Khong Cave, Am Phu Cave, Linh Nham Cave, and the Non-Nuoc stone carving village.

Location: Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District (10 km from the city center)
If you plan to explore Ngu Hanh Son independently, don’t miss out on helpful information from Vietnampeace.com.

Hai Van Pass

For nature enthusiasts, Hai Van Pass is a must-visit, featuring winding roads with one side against high mountains and the other facing the blue sea and white clouds hugging the mountain slopes.

Cultural and Historical Destinations in Da Nang

Cham Sculpture Museum

Also known as the Cham Sculpture Gallery, this is the country’s largest museum preserving Cham cultural artifacts. Despite its grand appearance today, few know that the French built it in the early 20th century.

Address: 02 2nd September Street, Hai Chau District
Opening hours: 7:00 – 17:00 daily

Nam O Village

An ancient village near Hai Van Pass, Nam O is famous for its delicious fresh fish salad and traditional fish sauce making. Visit this small village to temporarily escape the city and experience a peaceful and rustic atmosphere. Don’t forget to explore Nam O Reef, where the natural scenery remains pristine and enchanting.

Location: Hoa Hiep Nam Ward, Lien Chieu District, Da Nang

My Son Sanctuary

About 70 km from the city, My Son is a Champa temple complex built from the 4th to 13th centuries. Here, visitors will marvel at the intricate architecture and exquisite carvings, showcasing the craftsmanship of Cham artisans during their prosperous era.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Less than an hour’s drive from Da Nang, Hoi An Ancient Town has charm amidst bustling urban areas. It used to be a vibrant trading port in the 17th century with tiny tiled-roof houses and wooden balconies. After over 400 years, Hoi An still preserves its diverse cultural beauty, harmonizing Eastern and Western influences, making it an indispensable destination in the Da Nang travel guide.

Vibrant Entertainment Spots in Da Nang

Ba Na Hills

Known as the “heavenly realm” or “European kingdom” in Vietnam, Ba Na Hills is one of the most modern and invested tourist areas. Its highlight is the cable car system, breaking four world records and ranking among the top 10 most impressive cable cars globally.

Modeled after European architecture and featuring a cool climate, Ba Na Hills offers visitors opportunities to capture memories at the Wax Museum, Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden, and the French Village or explore the wine cellar.

Ticket price: 650,000 VND/person (includes cable car and wine cellar admission, excluding wax museum ticket)
Don’t miss the Ba Na Hills travel experience to prepare for your visit.

Asia Park

Located in Hai Chau District, Asia Park is a giant amusement park and entertainment center in the city center. Offering a variety of thrilling rides, an indoor play area with modern games, and replicas of architectural wonders from various countries, such as the Clock Tower, the Gateway, Asia Park also features the 115m high Sun Wheel (among the top 5 tallest Ferris wheels in the world), providing a panoramic view of the city from above.

Address: 01 Phan Dang Luu, Hai Chau District
Opening hours: 15:30 – 22:30 from Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 22:30 on Saturday and Sunday

Helio Center

As the most modern entertainment complex in the city, Helio Center is the perfect destination for young people and families with children. Helio Center focuses on educational activities, offering a blend of learning and play with workshops, performances, Formula 1 racing cars, an art ice rink, and more.

Address: 2nd September Street, Hai Chau District
Free admission

Hoa Phu Thanh Tourist Area

If you enjoy active games and adventure, visit Hoa Phu Thanh Tourist Area to experience zip-lining through the forest, waterfall rappelling, or “heart-pounding” rubber boat sliding.

Address: Km20, National Highway 14G, Hoa Phu Commune, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang
Ticket price: 30,000 VND/entry, separate fees for each game

Nui Than Tai Hot Springs

If you want to relax after a tiring work period, Nui Than Tai hot springs will welcome you with fresh air and warm mineral springs, offering the most relaxing experience. Here, you can enjoy the nature of the Ba Na Nui Chua Nature Reserve, soak in onsen baths, or stop at the Ebisu Onsen Resort.

Address: National Highway 14G, Hoa Phu Commune, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang
Ticket price: 300,000 VND/person

In addition, the beautiful city of Da Nang offers plenty of opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos in dazzling locations that are hard to find elsewhere. If you want to explore a bit, you’ll discover some exciting and lesser-known entertainment spots in Da Nang.

3D Art In Paradise Da Nang

3D Art In Paradise Da Nang is the first and only 3D art gallery. This gallery, invested in by the Art in Paradise Global company, has appeared in Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia.

With an area of over 4000 square meters, 3D Art In Paradise Da Nang features nine themed areas with over 130 works created by nearly 20 top artists from South Korea.

The first floor includes themed areas: Optical Illusion, Classic Art, Aqua World, Safari, and Fantasy World.
The second floor has four main areas: Ancient Egypt, World, Modern Art, and Imagine.

With so many massive 3D artworks, visitors will spend hours exploring the Da Nang 3D museum.

Da Nang Mikazuki Water Park

Da Nang Mikazuki Water Park is a water park in Da Nang, located within the Da Nang Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa entertainment complex. The water park has indoor and outdoor areas, with an indoor area covering 11,400 square meters, providing excellent entertainment for you and your family.

One unique feature of Mikazuki Water Park is that it is considered the first indoor hot water park in Vietnam. Here, you can freely experience water games without worrying about the weather. The water temperature is maintained at 30 degrees Celsius to provide the best experience for customers.

Moreover, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a high-quality buffet lunch and set menu meals, giving you extra energy to explore the entire park.

Beautiful Beaches in Da Nang

My Khe Beach

Address: Vo Nguyen Giap Street, 3 km east of the city center

Among them, Forbes magazine, the leading American economic magazine, lists My Khe Beach as one of the most beautiful beaches globally. My Khe is a must-visit destination when traveling to Da Nang.

Pham Van Dong Beach

This is one of the three main beaches of My Khe. With a beach area of up to 7,726 square meters and facilities such as water fountains, six freshwater tanks, and 26 shower lines, this beach promises to bring you perfect relaxation.

Non Nuoc Beach

Address: Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang

Many tourists love non Nuoc Beach for its smooth white sand, gentle sloping, clear blue seawater with calm waves, and a line of coconut trees close to the shore, ideal for picnics and camping. When viewed from above, the beach forms a large arc, winding around the foot of Ngu Hanh Son Mountain, creating a perfectly natural picture.

Lang Van Beach, Nam O Beach

If you are an adventurer wondering, “What’s interesting about traveling to Da Nang?” try exploring lesser-known beaches like Chuoi Beach, Lang Van Beach, Nam O Beach, or But Beach! These beaches have beautiful and romantic landscapes. Moreover, you can organize camping and outdoor games with friends and enjoy delicious fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.

Da Nang Sightseeing Tours

Da Nang Half-Day Tour

09:00-09:30 Pick up guests.
09:30-11:15 Move to Ngu Hanh Son and visit.
11:15-12:00 Return to the city center and visit the Cham Sculpture Museum.
12:00-13:00 Lunch at a specialty restaurant in Da Nang.
13:00-14:00 Guests are free to visit Han Market.
14:00-14:30 Return guests to the initial pickup location.
Places to visit on the tour include Ngu Hanh Son, Cham Sculpture Museum, and Han Market. The tour lasts 5-6 hours.

Da Nang Hoi An 1-Day Tour

09:00-10:30 Pick up guests and move to Linh Ung Pagoda.
10:30-11:00 Return to the city center of Da Nang and visit tourist attractions: Dragon Bridge, Love Bridge, and Carp turning into a dragon statue.
11:00-12:30 Walk around local stalls and enjoy street food specialties in Da Nang.
12:30-14:00 Visit the Cham Sculpture Museum and Han Market.
14:00-15:30 Return to the accommodation for rest.
15:30-18:00 Pick up guests and move to Ngu Hanh Son for sightseeing.
18:00-19:00 Dinner.
19:00-20:30 Visit Hoi An Ancient Town.
20:30-21:00 Return to Da Nang. Drop off, guests. End of the trip.
Places to visit on the tour include Linh Ung Pagoda, Da Nang city center, Cham Sculpture Museum, Han Market, Ngu Hanh Son, and Hoi An Ancient Town for dinner.

Delectable Da Nang Cuisine

It’s challenging to have a perfect Da Nang travel guide without a section on its delectable cuisine

. Here are some of the must-try dishes when you visit this coastal city.

1. My Quang (Quang Noodles)

My Quang is a famous dish from Da Nang, and it’s a must-try when visiting the city. This dish consists of rice noodles mixed with various herbs and vegetables, topped with meat (usually shrimp, chicken, or pork), and a small broth.

2. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancake)

Banh Xeo is a crispy and savory Vietnamese pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It’s usually wrapped in rice paper along with fresh herbs and dipped in a flavorful sauce.

3. Bun Cha Ca (Fish Cake Noodles)

Bun Cha Ca is a noodle dish that features fish cakes, vegetables, and rice noodles in a light and flavorful broth. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish, perfect for a warm day.

4. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Baguette)

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that has gained international fame. Da Nang has unique variations with a wide range of fillings, including grilled pork, pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

5. Seafood

Thanks to its coastal location, Da Nang is known for its fresh seafood. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a seafood feast with grilled squid, steamed clams, and garlic butter prawns.

6. Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)

Like My Quang, Mi Quang is another noodle dish from Da Nang. It typically features thick rice noodles, a small broth, and various toppings such as shrimp, pork, herbs, and peanuts.

7. Cao Lau

Cao Lau is a unique noodle dish combining thick rice noodles, pork slices, herbs, and croutons. Cao Lau is remarkable because water from an ancient Cham well gives the noodles a distinctive flavor and texture.

8. Nem Lui (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Nem Lui is a popular dish in Da Nang, consisting of grilled pork skewers served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. It’s a delightful and interactive dining experience.

These are just a few examples of the delicious food you can enjoy in Da Nang. The city’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, offering various flavors for every palate.

In conclusion, Da Nang is a vibrant and dynamic city with a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or foodie, Da Nang has something unique. From exploring the Marble Mountains and ancient pagodas to relaxing on pristine beaches and savoring local delicacies, your Da Nang experience will be filled with memorable moments. So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal gem in Central Vietnam. Safe travels!

Famous pancakes of Danang (Photo ST)