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Da Nang, Vietnam is often bypassed by travelers in favor of more popular destinations, like Hanoi and Hoi An. What the metropolitan city lacks in charm, however, it more than makes up for in beautiful beaches, abundant nature, amazing theme parks and local gastronomy. Furthermore, the city is well-positioned for remarkable day trips.
When we decided to base ourselves in Da Nang, Vietnam for two weeks, we envisioned spending long, relaxing days at the beach, idling away our time by watching the fisherman come and go in their basket boats.
What we discovered, however, is that there are many fun things to do in Da Nang besides beach life! Our days were quickly filled with city sights, nearby natural wonders, day trips from Da Nang and, of course, the delectable cuisine.
Best Things To Do in Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang is vastly different than most cities in Vietnam. The historic Da Nang center sits along the Han River – and boasts just a handful of sights, but the area surrounding it is brimming with things to do, places to see and sights to discover.
To the east of Da Nang is a long stretch of beautiful beaches. The coastline is capped by the Son Tra Peninsula to the north and the dramatic Marble Mountains to the south. Our list highlights what to see in Da Nang to help fellow travelers plan their trip. Because Da Nang sightseeing also includes regional attractions, we share the best day trips, as well.
What To Do in Da Nang: Top Sightseeing Attractions
Top attractions in Da Nang include natural scenery, modern marvels and urban sights. From contemporary architecture and fairytale theme parks to ancient temples tucked into hidden caves, there is a wide variety of things to do around Da Nang.
In addition to our list of Da Nang Things To Do, we also provide advice on how to get there, what to pack and where to stay. Before you start sightseeing in Da Nang, know exactly where to go with our helpful map at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Da Nang Travel Guide to plan your trip to Vietnam!
#1 Sink Your Feet into the Sand on a Da Nang Beach
The Da Nang beaches are some of the best in Vietnam – and spending time on the sandy shoreline is one of the top Da Nang things to do! The long stretch of coast actually extends for more than 20 miles. Along the Da Nang strand, hotels and resorts overlook the beach and waterfront eateries offer fresh seafood specialties.
At the beach, visitors can partake in top Da Nang activities, like parasailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, boating, swimming and, of course, sunbathing. There are a multitude of Da Nang beaches and we are showcasing a few of the best.
My Khe Beach Da Nang (China Beach)
With white sand and clean water, My Khe Beach has long been touted as one of the best beaches in Da Nang. During the Vietnam War, My Khe was a popular R&R beach for American soldiers, who gave the beach it’s better-known moniker, China Beach.
During the day, the beach is swarmed with foreign visitors – but the big beach seldom feels crowded (although the partitioned safe-swim areas do get quite congested!). Locals prefer going to the beach early in the morning – when the temperatures are coolest – to walk and exercise.
South of My Khe visitors will find more Da Nang beaches – like Bac My An Beach and Non Nuoc Beach.
Unspoiled Da Nang Beaches
Travelers seeking quiet beaches away from the crowds should make their way to hidden Da Nang beaches. The Son Tra Peninsula boasts a few gems along the rustic shoreline, which is best explored by motorbike. Further north, Lang Co Beach features a lagoon of turquoise sea and nearby natural springs.
#2 Visit Ba Na Hills and Golden Hand Bridge
Visiting the Ba Na Hills Theme Park is one of the most popular things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam. Originally established as a mountain resort for French colonists, the holiday retreat was revitalized into a fairytale theme park in the early 2000s. The park’s most recognizable attraction is the Golden Hand Bridge – a mountainside golden bridge held by two giant stone-carved hands.
However, there are numerous things to see and do at Ba Na Hills – like visiting the replica French Village, strolling through manicured gardens, playing classic games in the 3-story arcade and riding the scenic cable car. For detailed advice – including ticket options – read our complete Ba Na Hills Da Nang guide.
#3 See the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang
The masterpiece Dragon Bridge that crosses the River Han is absolutely one of the Da Nang highlights. Opened in 2013, the bridge arches are designed to look like a dragon’s back – and the east-facing dragon head spouts water and breathes fire on weekend evenings.
More Da Nang Bridges
There are actually several bridges that cross the Han River in Da Nang. While the fanciful Dragon Bridge is the most popular, we think it is worth checking out others, too.
Suspended across the mouth of the Han River, Thuan Phuoc Bridge ranks as the longest cable-stayed bridge in Vietnam at more than 6,000 feet long. The Han River Bridge, which was the country’s first swing bridge, was built in the late 1990s; it swings open daily (at 11:00pm) to allow large ships to pass through. The cables on Tran Thi Ly Bridge resemble a sail and feature an artistic light display at night.
Pro Tip: On the east bank of the Han River between the Han Bridge and the Dragon Bridge is a spouting Carp-Dragon Statue, which looks very similar to the Merlion in Singapore. From the base of the statue, there is a short Love Locks pier over the water that offers nice views of the river and city.
#4 Visit the Da Nang Cathedral
Built by the French in 1923, the pink Sacred Heart Cathedral is an eye-catching structure and one of the intriguing Da Nang city sights. The decorative façade features a single bell tower, which is topped with a rooster weather vane. The unusual embellishment has resulted in the church’s local nickname: Rooster Church. The pastel-painted church is certainly the prettiest church in the Da Nang city center.
#5 Explore the Con Market
The centrally located Con Market is a lively and densely packed hall of more than 2,000 stalls. It’s, understandably, one of the most popular places for shopping in Da Nang.
Vendors sit at low tables selling fresh produce and not-too-fresh-looking meats, while clothing and other goods are sold in a maze of narrow lanes. Navigate your way through the entire market and we’re certain you will find just about everything under the sun for sale!
Pro Tip: The Con Market is a local Da Nang shopping experience. Tourists are welcome to shop and eat at Con Market, but window shoppers, photographers and anyone blocking and not buying will be shooed away.
More Markets in Da Nang, Vietnam
Con Market is just one of many places to go shopping in Da Nang. Tourists looking for inexpensive souvenirs and packaged goods should check out the Han Market.
Another fun spot is the Bac My An Market, a street food space that is popular with both locals and tourists. Don’t miss the Kem Bo Avocado Ice Cream at Bac My An Market, which we feature in our Da Nang Food Guide!
Alternatively, Vincom Plaza is a modern mall with brand name stores intermingled with local shops. For everyday shopping, the LOTTE Mart and always-crowded Big C Supermarket are good choices.
#6 Go To Asia Park: Sun World Da Nang Wonders
One of the family-fun Da Nang city attractions, Sun World Da Nang theme park features roller coasters and other amusement rides, as well as cultural displays and restaurants. The enormous Ferris wheel at the Sun World amusement park can be seen from afar – it’s more than 375 feet high and ranks as one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world!
#7 Learn Da Nang History at Cham Museum
A fascinating museum of stone sculptures and ancient artifacts, the Cham Museum is one of the top places to visit in Da Nang, Vietnam to learn about the past. The Museum of Cham Sculpture was founded in 1915 and features works that date to the 5th century, including the largest collection of Cham relics in the world.
More Museums in Da Nang
While the Cham Museum is the most visited in the city, there are more Da Nang museums that might pique your interest.
Zone 5 Military Museum
Visitors can learn about Vietnam’s version of military history at the Zone 5 Military Museum. A highlight of the museum is the military equipment that is on display, as well as a dedicated section to Ho Chi Minh.
Art in Paradise 3D Museum
An entertaining and interactive space, the Art in Paradise Museum displays interactive 3D wall murals that make for fun photo ops!
Da Nang Museum
The modern Da Nang Museum presents visitors with a history of the city, the people and their culture along with some military displays.
#8 Take a City Tour of Da Nang
We highlighted several of the Da Nang City Center sights, but because these attractions are scattered about, it is recommended that visitors join one of the highly-rated tours in Da Nang. On a half-day tour, participants get a complete introduction to the top sights and learn more about the history from the perspective of a local guide.
#9 Discover the Son Tra Peninsula and Linh Ung Pagoda
The Son Tra Peninsula is one of the best things to see in Da Nang! The 220-foot-tall statue of Lady Buddha stands on the hillside of Son Tra Mountain – and is visible long before arriving. The statue is part of the Bai But Linh Ung Pagoda, an expansive and lavish Buddhist temple complex built in 2010. As there is no entry fee, visiting it is one of the free things to do in Da Nang!
Other Things To See on Son Tra Peninsula
Standing at 2,300 feet, Son Tra Monkey Mountain is an ideal nature retreat on the peninsula. Once a strategic US Air Force and Marines base, Son Tra Mountain has been reclaimed by the jungle – and monkeys really do roam free. The switchback roads crawling beyond the pagoda to the mountain top are best navigated using a scooter.
Along the route, there are several scenic lookouts. To the north, you have a clear view across Da Nang Bay and to the south is Da Nang City with the Marble Mountains in the distance.
Pro Tip: Many of the organized Da Nang tours only visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, but do not venture further up Monkey Mountain. Those who want to fully explore Monkey Mountain should join a motorbike tour.
#10 Marvel at the Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains are a must-see Da Nang sight! Five limestone and marble hills stand in close proximity between Da Nang and Hoi An. Steeped in spirituality, these mountains are named for the five elements of life (Earth, Water, Fire, Wood and Metal) and feature numerous Buddhist temples and caves.
Things To Do at Marble Mountain
Water Mountain is most popular of the five hills that constitute the Marble Mountains. Featuring vast caves, interesting temples and phenomenal viewpoints, Water Mountain on it’s own is a top tourist attraction in Da Nang.
From the main entrance (by the elevator) there is an easy-to-follow route to the sights. Highlights for us included the Non Nuoc Linh Ung Pagoda, the Dinh Thuong Thai Peak viewpoint and the Huyen Khong Cave.
Visitors are allowed to freely explore the Marble Mountain caves – so be adventurous! We discovered hidden nooks decorated with giant Buddha statues and a tunnel at the back of one cave that led to an amazing viewpoint.
However, of all the caves, Huyen Khong Cave is a must-see. Natural light filters through the cavernous space and features stone temples and carved shrines.
Marble Mountain Entrance Fee, Hours, Tips
The entry ticket costs 40k VND (about $1.65 USD). For an additional 15k, you can take the elevator rather than hike up the mountainside – and we highly recommend it. You will want to save your energy for exploration!
Marble Mountain Hours: Open daily from 7:00am until 5:00pm.
For those who only want to take a Marble Mountain Tour – separate from any other Da Nang sightseeing – can book a guided tour.
Note: The Am Phu Cave – Hell Cave – is another must-see, but is accessed from outside the park and requires an additional fee.
#11 Eat the Best Da Nang Food
Don’t miss one of the absolute best things to do in Da Nang: Eat the fabulous food! The local cuisine is a mix of iconic Vietnam food, regional specialties and international cuisine. During our trip, we made it our mission to seek out the best food in Da Nang.
Not only did we find the top Da Nang places to eat local specialties – like Mi Quang, Banh Xeo and some Central Vietnamese Home Cooking – we also indulged in Indian, Mexican and American-style burgers. If you want to taste the finest food in the city, use our Da Nang Foodie Guide for our top tips on what and where to eat!
Full Day Trips from Da Nang, Vietnam
Looking for things to do around Da Nang? The city is well-connected to numerous nearby destinations – and day trips are the perfect way to discover more of the region. Visitors can join highly-rated Da Nang day tours – or, in some cases, plan a self-guided adventure.
Whether you go with a guide or on your own, day trips are one of the top things to do in Da Nang. The best places to visit near Da Nang are the ancient town of Hoi An, the Old Imperial City of Hue, the Cham Islands and My Son Sanctuary.
#12 Hoi An Day Tours from Da Nang
One of the top day trips from Da Nang, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage city of Hoi An is an absolute must! The picturesque Hoi An Old Town is a jumble of appealing lanes decorated with colorful lanterns and nested alongside a lazy river.
Due to their close proximity, travelers on a Hoi An day trip from Da Nang will have plenty of time to see the Old Town sights. Top things to see are the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kein Fujian Assembly Hall, Cam Pho Communal House and the Central Market.
After sightseeing, visitors can go shopping for Hoi An specialties – like paper lanterns and tailored clothing. Then, complete the day trip by feasting on local Vietnamese cuisine and Fresh Beer! We share more details in our article, Great Things To Do in Hoi An.
How To Get from Da Nang to Hoi An
Going to Hoi An is one of the top Da Nang excursions. Visitors can easily book a tour to Hoi An – as every Da Nang tour operator offers the day trip. We recommend choosing a highly-rated tour – like this one – that gives guests the freedom to choose what they want to see with the local guide.
However, as the two cities are just 20 miles apart – travelers can just grab a taxi or even take the bus. A Taxi between Da Nang and Hoi An is the easiest way, but also the most expensive at about $30 each way.
Private transport can be booked in advance online for less. However, using the Grab Taxi App might be even cheaper. The least expensive way to travel to Hoi An from Da Nang is via the local bus – Route #1 – which costs about $1 per ride.
#13 Hue and Hai Van Pass Tours from Da Nang
The Imperial City of Hue is located 55 miles north of Da Nang – and is a very popular day tour. The ancient sights – collectively known as the Complex of Hue Monuments – have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hue served as the capital of Vietnam and home of the reigning Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 until 1945. Although the area suffered severe destruction during the Vietnam War, many of the most significant structures still stand.
Top sights in Hue include the Citadel and Emperor’s Palace, the historic Thien Mu Pagoda and Emperor Khai Dinh’s tomb; all of which you will visit on a Day Trip From Da Nang!
Hai Van Pass
One of the perks of taking a day trip from Da Nang to Hue is that some tours (like the one we took) make the journey via Hai Van Pass. The twisting road – which is both the most beautiful and the most dangerous in Vietnam – climbs through the Annamite Mountain Range and provides stunning views in all directions.
Another must-see sight on a Da Nang to Hue Tour is Lang Co fishing village. Popular for it’s long, sandy beaches and fresh fish markets, the nearby Lang Co Springs attracts visitors for swims in it’s clear, cool and natural waters. Read our review of taking a Hue Tour from Da Nang.
How To Get from Da Nang to Hue
There are three routes between Da Nang and Hue: Via the picturesque Hai Van Pass on a tour, through the Hai Van Tunnel by public bus or taxi or by rail (which is not particularly practical for Hue day trips).
Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue Combo Tour: Book an excursion that showcases all three cities – like this highly-rated tour! The Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue Itinerary includes one full day of sightseeing in Hue (plus an overnight stay), the best sights of Da Nang and the most famous Hoi An attractions – complete with transportation and a guide!
#14 Cham Island Boat Tours from Da Nang
The Cham Islands are a chain of eight islands just nine miles off the coast of Hoi An in the East Vietnam Sea. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the islands are a perfect adventure from the busy mainland. Tours from Hoi An and Da Nang visit Hon Lao – the biggest and only inhabited island in the archipelago.
Cham Island sights include a traditional fishing village, ancient temples and sandy beaches. The top Cham Island tours – like this one from Da Nang – include a snorkeling stop and a locally prepared lunch, too. Learn more in our Cham Island Tour review.
How To Get to Cham Islands from Da Nang
Most Da Nang Boat Tours depart from the Cua Dai Wharf in Hoi An (mini-van pick up in Da Nang is included in the price). There are both speed boats (fastest) and traditional wooden boats (slower) that are used by Cham Island tour operators. DIY day trippers who want to organize their own Da Nang boat trip can catch a ride to the Cua Dai Port and hop on the slow ferry for an inexpensive ride to the Cham Islands.
#15 My Son Sanctuary Trips from Da Nang
Located inland from Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is an ancient Hindu temple complex of the Champa Kingdom. Once featuring more than 70 structures, much of the complex was destroyed during the Vietnam War.
Although many of these places of worship are in ruins (like some of the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia), the site gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999. On a guided My Son tour from Da Nang, participants will learn about the history of the Champa Kingdom and the temples they built. Find out more about this half-day tour!
Da Nang Attractions Map
Use this link to Google for an online version of our Da Nang Map that is marked with all the top sights and attractions.
Da Nang Travel Tips
Deciding what to see in Da Nang, Vietnam is just one aspect of planning your trip. Travelers also need to determine whether or not to hire a tour guide, how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. In the following sections, we share all of our advice on planning a trip to Da Nang, Vietnam.
Organized with a Da Nang Tour Guide
The easiest, hassle-free way of exploring Da Nang tourist attractions is with a tour guide. There are a multitude of Da Nang day tours on offer, but finding one that covers all of the highlights can be slightly challenging.
Many tours focus on a specific place – like Marble Mountain – but don’t visit other top attractions. Those planning a longer Da Nang vacation can utilize these tours and break up sightseeing over several days. However, those limited on time will want to find a Da Nang day tour that showcases all of the sights.
Half-Day Da Nang Tour Package
This tour manages to squeeze in all of the top sights – and includes lunch – in a fairly short amount of time. Participants are picked up from their hotel at 8:30am and travel first to Son Tra Peninsula and the Lady Buddha Statue.
Next, the guide leads groups through Marble Mountain sights followed by a break for lunch. Afterwards, the group heads to the Cham Sculpture Museum and then makes a final stop at the must-see Han Market. Book it now!
Full-Day Private Da Nang Tour
A private tour is the perfect solution for those who would rather not travel with a group. In addition to having a local guide who can share Da Nang history and information, the price of the tour includes admission fees to sights. Get the details!
Self-Guided Da Nang Day Tour
Travelers who want to see Da Nang sights on their own without a guide can do so by arranging their own transportation. Self-Guided Da Nang sightseeing allows for the greatest freedom, but it does require a little bit of work to plan the day.
Those who are comfortable riding motorbikes can rent scooters, which provides the most flexibility. Motorbike rentals are fairly inexpensive; however, we do not recommend novice drivers try to learn how to ride a scooter in Vietnam!
Visitors can simply get around by using the Grab Taxi App. Similar to Uber, Grab is significantly cheaper than hopping in a regular cab. Just bear in mind that to request a Grab Taxi, you will need an internet connection. We rely on the GlocalMe Mobile HotSpot, which has been fabulous for us!
Local buses can be used to get around the city center and further south to Hoi An; however, there are no public buses to Linh Ung Pagoda. Another way to get to top Da Nang attractions is the Hop On Hop Off Bus.
Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours in Da Nang
Hop On Hop Off Coco sightseeing tour buses are ideal for visitors who want to see the top Da Nang sights at their own pace. The Da Nang Hop On Hop Off bus has two intertwining routes, frequent services and a printed timetable so that you can easily plan your day. The All-Day Ticket price is about $10, making it an excellent way to tour Da Nang on a budget!
How To Get to Da Nang, Vietnam
Travelers to Da Nang can arrive by plane, train, boat, bus, car or scooter! We prefer to fly in Vietnam – and the Da Nang Airport (DAD) is conveniently located near the city center.
Da Nang Airport
The airport in Da Nang has flights from all major cities in Vietnam, as well as several international destinations, like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo. Find the best prices on flights to Da Nang on SkyScanner.
Airport Transfer Da Nang
The Da Nang Airport is less than 2 miles from the city center – and the ride takes only 5-10 minutes. Taxis are available at the airport and some hotels provide transportation. Visitors can also book their own airport transfers in advance online.
Pro Tip: For an airport transfer from the Da Nang Airport to Hoi An, book here.
Central Bus Station Da Nang
The main Da Nang bus station is located west of the city center and is less convenient than the airport. The busy station services both northbound and southbound domestic routes.
Bus from Hoi An to Da Nang
The Route #1 Da Nang Yellow Bus transports passengers from Hoi An to the Da Nang bus station. The ride takes longer than an hour, but only costs about $1 USD. Buses operate frequently from 5:30am until about 6:00pm.
Bus between Hue and Da Nang
The bus from Hue to Da Nang takes 2-3 hours, depending on which carrier is used, and costs less than $10 USD. Trains make the journey between the two cities in about 2 hours and 45 minutes – and cost the same as the bus.
Train or Bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang
Traveling by bus to Da Nang from HCMC is not advised. The ride typically takes more than 20 hours. The train is only slightly better, with some journeys taking less than 16 hours.
Travel from Hanoi to Da Nang
Buses from Hanoi to Da Nang take about 15 hours. The train between the two cities takes just as long. When we traveled from Hanoi to Da Nang, we opted for an inexpensive and easy hour-long flight.
Where To Stay in Da Nang, Vietnam
We spent a lot of time carefully considering the best area to stay in Da Nang. We preferred to be close to the beach, but in a local neighborhood. Also, because we were staying in Da Nang for two weeks, we wanted a small kitchen to prepare a few meals at home. In the end, we stayed at Kua Casa Apartments and it worked great for us!
That said, every travelers’ version of the best place to stay in Da Nang will be different. From posh resorts on the beach to cheap hostels in the city center to stylish Airbnb apartments, Da Nang travelers have ample options for accommodation.
Use our tips for Finding the Best Hotels at the Best Price – and then start your search on Booking.com (like we do!).
Da Nang Weather
The weather in Da Nang, Vietnam is seasonal; summers are hot and winters are slightly less hot. The hottest month is June, when the high is often above 90F. In the wintertime, the high temperature in Da Nang is usually in the high 70s. It is rainiest during in autumn.
We visited Da Nang in August and had mostly sunny, hot days with only a few rain showers. Many say the best time to visit Da Nang is from December until March, with cooler temps and little rain.
What To Pack For Your Da Nang Trip
As you get ready for your trip to Da Nang, Vietnam, make sure to check out all our packing hacks! For now, go ahead and grab your FREE Packing Checklist!
Appropriate Attire for Vietnam
Packing the right clothes for your trip to Da Nang is important. Those traveling in the warmer months will want loose-fitting, modest clothing that can be worn in temples. But, don’t forget your swimsuit, too!
Pro Tip: Pack a multi-functional wrap that can be used as a beach towel and to cover shoulders when visiting religious sites.
Vietnam Weather Gear
Weather in Vietnam can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to be prepared! Bring lightweight gear – like a packable raincoat and a travel umbrella – that don’t take up too much space in your day bag. Remember to also pack sun protection – like sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat. Also, don’t forget the insect repellent to keep the mosquitos away!
Travel Insurance for Vietnam
Trip Insurance may assist with flight cancellations or lost luggage, as well as in the case of illnesses or injuries abroad. Consider coverage offered with different plans and reasonable rates with World Nomads.
Vacation Planner for Vietnam
As you begin to make your vacation plans for Vietnam, it’s essential to stay organized. We find using a Travel Planning Printable helps keep all our bookings, tours and other pertinent information at our fingertips!
More Top Vietnam Destinations
For most travelers, Da Nang is just one place to visit on a longer Vietnam vacation. We have spent months touring the country and have heaps of Vietnam travel tips to share with you!
- How To Spend 2 Weeks in Vietnam
- Perfect Way To See Hanoi (and the Best Hanoi Food)
- Cruise Halong Bay
- What To See in Ho Chi Minh City
- Top Sights of Ninh Binh
- What To Do on Phu Quoc Island
- Visit Dalat in the Central Highlands
Start planning your trip to Vietnam! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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