Da Nang is a must-visit destination in Vietnam, celebrated for its picturesque coastline, stunning beaches, and rich cultural and historical significance. Located in central Vietnam, this vibrant city attracts both local and international visitors. With its prime location near three UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, and the Hue Imperial City—and its well-developed infrastructure, Da Nang offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, making it an exceptional place to explore.
Beaches: Da Nang is renowned for its stunning beaches, including Man Thai, Pham Van Dong, My Khe Beach, and Non Nuoc Beach. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Don’t forget sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Attractions:
- Marble Mountains: A cluster of five limestone hills featuring caves and pagodas.
It’s a great spot for exploration and cultural learning.
- Dragon Bridge: An iconic bridge with a dragon design, known for its fire and water show on weekends.
- Ba Na Hills: A popular tourist area featuring the Golden Bridge, gardens, and a
French village. It also boasts one of the world’s longest cable cars.
- Nui Than Tai Hot Springs: A hot spring area located not far from Da Nang, ideal for relaxation and mineral water treatments.
- Son Tra Peninsula: A beautiful area offering scenic views, diverse wildlife, and the Linh Ung Pagoda with its impressive statue of the Lady Buddha.
Festivals & Holidays: Da Nang hosts various festivals throughout the year, including Christmas, New Year, Lunar New Year, Da Nang International Fireworks Festival,… all celebrated with vibrant events and cultural performances.
Accommodation: Da Nang offers a range of accommodations, from budget options to luxury high-end hotels and resorts. Booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons. You can choose accommodations in the city center with stunning river views or opt for beautiful beach views along the coast.
Clothing:
- Summer: Bring loose and airy clothes such as maxi dresses or bikinis for beach relaxation. Additionally, bring sun-blocking accessories like hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas in case of weather changes.
- Winter/Rainy Season: Pack warmer clothes such as light jackets and long-sleeve shirts. Bring waterproof gear, such as raincoats or umbrellas, and waterproof shoes for rainy days.
Transportation:
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing Services: Convenient options for getting around the city, including ride-hailing apps like Grab.
- Bicycles & Motorbikes: Renting bicycles or motorbikes is a popular way to explore Da Nang and its surroundings.
- Public Buses: A budget-friendly option for getting around, though not always frequent.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the city and nearby attractions at your own pace.
- Electric cars: you can rent electric cars from various locations, including hotels and rental shops. They are primarily used on certain roads, along the coastal line and for nearby attractions.
Local Drinks:
- Vietnamese Coffee: Particularly Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) is very
popular.
- Bia Hơi: A type of fresh beer widely enjoyed in Da Nang, often served in local eateries.
- Laque: A traditional local beer, enjoyed for its refreshing taste.
- Huda: A popular beer from Hue, commonly found in Da Nang.
Local Food:
- Mi Quang (Quang Noodles): A specialty noodle dish with a rich broth.
- Bun Cha Ca: Fish cake noodle soup.
- Banh Xeo: Vietnamese savory pancakes.
- Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo: Pork rolled in rice paper.
- Bun Mam Nem: Fermented fish noodle soup.
- Kem Bo: Avocado ice cream.
- Yaourt Muoi: Salted yogurt.
- Goi Ca: Fish salad.
- Che: A variety of sweet soups and desserts.
Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo Quang Noodles
Daily Life Activities:
- Go cafe-hopping in town: Visit Da Nang’s cafes, many of which offer unique atmospheres and stunning views, whether it’s overlooking the river, city skyline, or the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee while soaking in the local vibe.
- Savor your taste by local food: Da Nang offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of traditional dishes reflecting the diverse flavors of Central Vietnam
- Riverside Promenade: Take a relaxing walk along the Han River and enjoy the city’s lights and modern skyline. The riverside is perfect for a leisurely evening, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Massage & Spas: Relax with a traditional Vietnamese massage or a spa treatment in one of Da Nang’s many wellness centers. These treatments are perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating after a day of sightseeing.
- Night Markets: Explore night markets like Helio, Son Tra, Bach Dang, An Thuong with a variety of street food, local goods and live music. The markets are a great place to experience the local culture and try some unique dishes.
- Bar & Nightlife: Enjoy nightlife in the city’s bars and clubs, especially around the
beach area and downtown.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy cultural performances in Da Nang, such as the Symphony of the River Show and traditional Vietnamese water puppetry. These shows provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam through music, dance, and storytelling.
- Cooking Class: Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare delicious Vietnamese dishes. Classes often start with a market visit to pick fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on instruction from local chefs in making authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
- Shopping: Explore Da Nang’s local markets and shopping centers for a wide range of handmade goods, clothing, and accessories. From modern malls to traditional markets, there are plenty of opportunities to find unique items.
- Biking: Rent a bike to explore Da Nang at your own pace. Cycle along the scenic coastal roads, through local neighborhoods, or up to the Son Tra Peninsula for breathtaking views of the city and sea.
- Motorbiking: Discover Da Nang’s attractions on a motorbike, providing the freedom to explore coastal roads, mountain trails, and hidden spots. Whether you’re heading to the Marble Mountains or taking a trip up to Ba Na Hills, a motorbike offers an adventurous way to see the city.
Sports & Water Sports (Weather Permitting):
- Golf: Da Nang is home to several world-class golf courses, including Montgomerie Links and Da Nang Golf Club, offering beautiful views and challenging play.
- Surfing: My Khe Beach is ideal for surfing activities.
- Jet Skiing: Experience thrills with jet skiing.
- Parasailing: Enjoy aerial views with parasailing.
- Snorkeling & Diving: Explore underwater life at nearby islands.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Enjoy calm waters with kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Paragliding: Soar through the air and take in the scenic views.
- Cycling: Discover scenic routes and landscapes by bike.
Art Performances & Entertainment Shows:
- Awaken River
- Symphony of River Show at Da Nang Downtown
Symphony of River Show at Da Nang Downtown
Art exhibitions and museums:
- Cham Museum (Museum of Cham Sculpture)
- Da Nang Museum
- Contemporary Art Exhibitions
- Da Nang Fine Arts Museum
Cham Museum Da Nang Museum