Da Nang in Vietnam 2025: Save the BEST guide for your forthcoming trip

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Vietnam travel and tourism has been attracting tourists from all over the world with its mesmerising beaches, many of which are located in Da Nang. The city also has many other attractions, including architectural works, handicraft villages, spiritual tourist sites, mysterious museums, and mouth-watering delicacies. Note them down and be ready for your upcoming trip!

1. Where is Da Nang Vietnam?

Da Nang is located in Central Vietnam, which is some 764 kilometres to the south of Hanoi and 961 kilometres to the north of Ho Chi Minh City. It is an important gateway to other northern, southern, and central provinces.

Da Nang is a bustling city in the Central region of Vietnam

2. Top reasons why Da Nang Vietnam is worth visiting

Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern conveniences. Is Da Nang worth visiting? Scroll down for the reasons why to visit this captivating land. 

2.1. Stunning beaches

Da Nang city’s coastline is particularly celebrated for its world-class beaches, which have garnered significant international recognition. My Khe Beach, a 10-kilometer stretch from Son Tra Peninsula to Marble Mountains, was named one of Asia’s most beautiful beaches by The Sunday Herald Sun in 2012 and recently ranked sixth in Asia’s top 10 beaches in Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards.

Da Nang Vietnam boasts long stretches of sandy beaches with clear blue waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation (Source: Collected)

Non Nuoc Beach shares this prestigious status, with both My Khe and Non Nuoc being included in The Daily Telegraph’s 2024 list of 50 best beaches globally. The beach features luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and extensive water sports facilities. Completing the trio, Bac My An Beach offers a more local experience with spectacular sunrise views and modern amenities. These pristine stretches of coastline, with their white sand and crystal-clear waters, cater to all types of travelers.

2.2. Proximity to UNESCO World Heritage Sites

One of Vietnam Da Nang’s most significant advantages is its strategic location as a gateway to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Just 30km south lies the enchanting Hoi An Ancient Town, with its well-preserved architecture and rich trading history dating back to the 15th century. The mysterious My Son Sanctuary, located 40km southwest of Da Nang City, features ancient Hindu temples of the Champa Kingdom. The Imperial City of Hue, Vietnam’s former royal capital, is accessible via a scenic 95km journey north, offering visitors insight into the country’s royal history and traditional architecture. These relatively short distances make Da Nang an ideal base for exploring central Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

2.3. Nature’s masterpieces: mountains, peninsula, and scenic passes

The natural wonders surrounding Da Nang in Vietnam contribute significantly to its appeal. The Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, house an intricate network of caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries, offering both spiritual and adventurous experiences. The Son Tra Peninsula provides a habitat for rare species and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. The famous Hai Van Pass, popularized by various international travel shows, presents one of Vietnam’s most scenic coastal routes, attracting both motorists and photography enthusiasts.

Coastal cliffs, especially along Hai Van Pass and Son Tra Peninsula, create stunning natural landscapes (Source: Collected)

2.4. Adventures for every spirit

Adventure seekers and nature lovers find themselves particularly well-catered to in Da Nang. The city offers a diverse range of activities, from water sports such as surfing, parasailing, and diving in its clear waters to hiking trails through lush landscapes. The Son Tra Peninsula provides numerous paths for nature exploration, while the Marble Mountains offer unique climbing experiences. The proximity to Bach Ma National Park adds another dimension to the available outdoor activities, with its rich biodiversity and hiking opportunities.

Read more:

• Time in Da Nang Vietnam: Useful information for travelers
• Nha Trang to Da Nang: The ultimate guide to traveling
• Da Nang to Hoi An: The ultimate guide for travelling

2.5. Welcoming and friendly Da Nang people

The warmth and hospitality of Da Nang’s residents significantly enhance the visitor experience. Local people are known for their friendliness and willingness to help tourists, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and daily life. This cultural interaction adds depth to the travel experience, allowing visitors to gain authentic insights into Vietnamese traditions and contemporary styles of living in Da Nang.

The people of Da Nang are known for their warmth, hospitality, and laid-back nature (Source: Collected)

2.6. Easy access and connectivity

Regarding accessibility, Da Nang International Airport serves as a major transportation hub in central Vietnam, with direct flights from many Asian cities and convenient connections to other international destinations. Flight times vary from approximately 2 hours from nearby countries like Thailand and Malaysia to longer journeys from Australia, the United States, and Europe. The city’s growing infrastructure and transportation networks make it increasingly accessible to international travelers.

2.7. Affordable luxury and comfort

Travel costs in Da Nang in Vietnam remain relatively affordable, particularly when compared to other popular tourist destinations in the region. The city caters to various budget levels, from luxury resorts to comfortable mid-range hotels and budget-friendly accommodations. For visitors from high-income countries such as Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong, South Korea, and the United States, Da Nang offers excellent value for money, with high-quality experiences available at reasonable prices. Even travelers from middle-income countries find Da Nang City accessible through budget-conscious choices in accommodation, dining, and activities.

The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation in Da Nang is relatively affordable compared to other major tourist destinations (Source: Collected)

3. When is the best time to visit Da Nang Vietnam?

Da Nang has features typical of the sub-tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

The dry season lasts from January to July, while the rainy season occupies the rest of the year. In each season, Da Nang weather has a special charm.

In the dry season, the weather is finely suitable for sight-seeing. It is also the time of various festivals in Da Nang, such as the international firework festival, Quan The Am Festival, and the boat racing festival. The best time to visit Da Nang Vietnam is from February to May, when temperatures average 23 – 28 degrees Celsius.

In the rainy season, there are often drizzling rains, which make the city seem quieter. This is also the off-peak season for tourism, so prices for accommodation and other services will be much lower.

The weather in Da Nang Vietnam will have a big impact on your trip

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4. The means of transportation for your trip to Da Nang

Da Nang is situated on the crucial transportation route between the Northern and Southern regions; so there are various means to get to and around Da Nang.

4.1. Going to Da Nang

• By plane: This is the most popular means of transportation, as travelling by air is so convenient and time-saving.

• By train: Many young people prefer travelling by train to Da Nang Vietnam, as they can contemplate the scenery along the way.
• By coach: There are many coach companies that offer soft seats and even beds to Da Nang and every other area in the country.

Taking a train to Da Nang is the best way to enjoy the landscapes along the way

4.2. Getting around Da Nang

Once you reach the city, travelling around Da Nang is easy as most tourist destinations are close to each other. You can choose to go either by:

• Taxi: This is a popular choice among visitors as it is fairly convenient and quick, though the fare may be rather high. It is advisable for you to take a taxi if you travel in a group of over 3 people.

• Bike: To young people, travelling in the city by bike is better as they can save money and be more active. You can stop at any place anytime you want, as long as you can find the way yourself.

• Cyclo: If you want to try a traditional means of transport which helps you leisurely wander around Da Nang, take a cyclo!

• Car: Renting a car is a better option for a big group or family to explore the city at your own pace. The rent may cost a bit, obviously.
• Bus: There are many bus routes to and from popular tourist spots in Da Nang. Travelling by bus is much cheaper than other means.

If you can find the way in Da Nang yourself, travelling by bike is an exciting option

5. Things to do in Da Nang Vietnam to enrich your experience

While you are in Da Nang, spare no effort in enjoying it with the following suggestions:

5.1. Take stunning photos at Dragon Bridge

Considered as a symbol of Da Nang, Dragon Bridge is a must-visit site. It was opened in 2013, connecting Da Nang Airport to the beaches of My Khe and Non Nuoc. The steel dragon bridge can “breathe” fire and water, at 9 pm on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays.

Make sure to include the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang Vietnam in your itinerary

5.2. Explore the architecture of Da Nang Cathedral

Da Nang Cathedral is among the best places to visit in Da Nang Vietnam, which is located in No. 156 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau District. Da Nang Cathedral is more popularly known as Rooster Cathedral, as a gray rooster figure is installed on the top of the cathedral. This is the only cathedral in Da Nang that was built in the French colonial period.

Visiting the site, you will be attracted by the French architectural style with tall towers and carved decoration patterns. The curved windows and doors make the cathedral look like those in Europe. Here, there are many statues of Jesus and paintings of stories in the Bible. At the back of the cathedral, there is a cave dedicated to Mother Maria.

Da Nang Cathedral is one of the top Da Nang Vietnam attractions

5.3. Learn about tradition in Nam O Fish Sauce Village

Located on Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau District, this is a small fishing village by the Thuy Tu River. Nam O Fish Sauce Village was established hundreds of years ago. It is home to clear and tasty fish sauce, a typical delicacy of Da Nang. You will have a chance to experience many traditional customs in the village.

The village used to be very well-known at the end of the 19th century, when their fish sauce was often offered to the King as gifts. The locals have passed down, from generations to generations, the method to produce the tasty fish sauce. Nam O fish sauce is a popular souvenir from Da Nang, so buying a bottle of it is among what to do in Da Nang Vietnam.

The tranquil village is worth a spot in your Da Nang Vietnam itinerary

Read more:

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• Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang: Details to know
• Da Nang from Hanoi: The complete guide for your first trip

5.4. Go sightseeing at Linh Ung Pagoda

Visiting Linh Ung Pagoda is among the top things to do in Da Nang Vietnam. There are two pagodas named Linh Ung in Da Nang: one in Son Tra Peninsula and one in the Marble Mountains.

• Linh Ung Pagoda Son Tra Peninsula is located in Bai But area, Son Tra district. The pagoda was built in an area of ​​about 20 hectares and includes many large structures such as towers, halls, monasteries, etc. At the pagoda, you will be immersed in a quiet and peaceful space. From here, you will have a good aerial view of Da Nang as well.

In addition, there is a 67-metre-tall Lady Buddha statue, which is as tall as a 30-storey building. The statue standing on a giant lotus platform has created a majestic and sacred atmosphere for the pagoda.

• Linh Ung Pagoda Marble Mountain is located in the Marble Mountains, Ngu Hanh Son district. At the pagoda, you will be immersed in a mystical and extremely sacred space. The pagoda is surrounded by green trees and fresh air. Strolling around and admiring the unique architectural beauty will surely help visitors forget about all their hustle and bustle.

In addition, the pagoda has many ancient Buddha statues. There is a 7-storey tower of up to 28 metres tall, which contains nearly 200 Buddha statues. This tower is home to the largest number of stone statues in Vietnam.

Linh Ung pagodas are the top sacred places to visit in Da Nang Vietnam

5.5. Relax at My Khe Beach Da Nang Vietnam

My Khe Beach is known as one of the best beaches on the planet, which is situated some 3 kilometres away from Da Nang’s city centre. The beach has a long stretch of smooth white sand and clear turquoise water which is warm all year round. Shaded by the lush coconut trees, My Khe Beach Da Nang Vietnam is a tourist hotspot for every visitor to Da Nang.

You should definitely include My Khe Beach in your Da Nang Vietnam itinerary

5.6. Visit Cham Museum Da Nang

Built in the early 20th century, Cham Museum Da Nang impresses visitors with its gothic architecture, yellow walls, big windows, and pointed arched domes. The museum has over 2,000 objects and 500 sculptures of the ancient Cham kingdom. In a total exhibition area of 6,600 square metres, the objects are divided into areas based on where they were discovered (My Son, Quang Tri, Tra Kieu, or Dong Duong, etc).

Visiting Cham Museum should be on top of the list of what to do in Da Nang Vietnam

5.7. Enjoy tasty specialties at Da Nang markets

There is no lack of delicious food in Da Nang Vietnam for you to try. Check them out:

• Seafood: Fresh seafood (squid, snail, shrimp, crab, mantis shrimp, etc) can be found in Con Market, Han Market, Helio Night Market, and Son Tra Night Market in Da Nang;

• Pork spring rolls: These spring rolls are a unique delicacy in Da Nang thanks to the thick dipping fish sauce which brings along an unforgettable taste;

• Quang noodles: Always on top of the list of what to eat in Da Nang Vietnam, the dish consists of thick rice noodles served with pork, chicken, shrimp, and fish;

• Nam O herring salad: A dish made from the herring caught in Nam O village, wrapped with rice paper and dipped into thick fish sauce along with fresh herbs;

• Banh xeo: A fried pancake made of rice powder, shrimp, pork, bean sprouts and herbs;

• Pha lau: A dish made of pork and offal stew, loved by many thanks to its strong taste of coconut milk;
• Durian sweet soup: A tasty dessert that makes use of the local durian sweet, resulting in its strong and rich flavour.

Trying the local delicacies is one of the top things to do in Da Nang Vietnam

5.8. Embark on thrilling adventures and captivating activities in Da Nang

Da Nang’s geographical diversity creates a playground for adventure enthusiasts, offering both water-based thrills and land-based things to do in Da Nang throughout the year. 

Water surface activities

My Khe Beach is the main hub for surface water sports, offering optimal surfing conditions from September to March, particularly during morning hours. Surfing schools provide equipment and lessons for all levels. Stand-up paddleboarding is available year-round, with calmer conditions from April to August making it ideal for beginners. Kayaking opportunities exist along the Han River, offering unique city views, especially during sunset hours. Jet skiing and parasailing operate from Non Nuoc Beach, best experienced from March to August when visibility is highest and winds are favorable.

Da Nang beaches offer a variety of activities like surfing, jet skiing, snorkeling, and parasailing (Source: Collected)

Marine activities

Son Tra Peninsula hosts the primary diving sites in Da Nang in Vietnam, featuring diverse marine ecosystems. The house reef provides excellent snorkeling and introductory diving opportunities, with visibility peaking from June to August. More advanced dive sites around the peninsula showcase larger marine life and coral gardens. 

Scuba diving courses are available year-round, with PADI-certified centers offering certifications from beginner to advanced levels. The waters maintain comfortable temperatures (26.6°C averagely) throughout the year, with the Nam O Reef offering additional snorkeling opportunities during low tide.

Hiking & trekking

Son Tra Peninsula offers varied hiking experiences, from easy nature walks to challenging summit trails. The best hiking times are early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is most active. The Marble Mountains provide shorter but steeper trails, featuring cave explorations and viewpoints. 

More adventurous hikers can explore Bach Ma National Park’s trails leading to waterfalls and peaks, ideally from October to March during the dry season. Local guides are available for wildlife spotting and cultural insights, which are particularly valuable for longer treks.

Son Tra Peninsula and Bach Ma National Park feature hiking trails through dense forests (Source: Collected)

6. Where to stay in Da Nang in Vietnam? Da Nang accommodation

When choosing accommodation in Da Nang City, location is crucial for maximizing your travel experience. The city offers distinct areas, each with unique advantages depending on your priorities – whether it’s convenience, beachfront living, or cultural immersion.

The city center of Da Nang serves as an ideal base, positioned between the airport and beaches. This area offers vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions, though expect busy traffic during peak hours. Along the Han River, accommodations provide stunning views of the city’s bridges and easy access to Han Market’s local food scene, perfect for experiencing authentic city life.

Da Nang in Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation options for every traveler (Source: Collected)

My Khe Beach area caters to beach enthusiasts with its water sports activities and proximity to Son Tra Peninsula, maintaining a good balance between seaside relaxation and urban convenience. For luxury seekers, Non Nuoc Beach offers high-end resorts along its pristine five-kilometer stretch, though it’s relatively distant from city attractions and local dining spots. Son Tra Peninsula provides a more exclusive experience, combining mountain and sea views in a peaceful setting while still being within reach of the city center.

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7. What and where to eat in Da Nang?

7.1. What to eat in Da Nang in Vietnam?

Da Nang City is not only famous for its pristine beaches and cultural landmarks but also for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Influenced by its coastal location and central Vietnamese traditions, Da Nang’s culinary scene offers a rich tapestry of tastes that captivates both locals and visitors.

Below is a guide to the iconic dishes that define Da Nang’s food culture:

• Mi Quang: The signature dish of central Vietnam featuring yellow rice noodles in a minimal but rich turmeric-flavored broth. Topped with pork, shrimp, quail eggs, peanuts, and fresh herbs, served with crispy rice crackers (banh trang) that add a delightful crunch.
• Banh trang cuon thit heo: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with thinly sliced boiled pork belly, fresh vegetables, and local herbs. This simple but satisfying dish is served with a unique dipping sauce made from fermented fish sauce, peanuts, and pineapple.
• Bun mam nem: Rice vermicelli served with grilled pork, spring rolls, fresh vegetables, and a pungent fermented fish sauce. The sauce is tempered with pineapple, chili, and lime, creating a bold, complex flavor profile.
• Bun cha ca: Fish cake noodle soup featuring local fish paste, complemented with fresh dill and pineapple. The clear, flavorful broth and tender fish cakes make this a local breakfast favorite.

From savory noodles to fresh seafood, Da Nang’s food scene is a feast for the senses (Source: Collected)

• Banh beo: Steamed rice cakes topped with dried shrimp, crispy pork cracklings, and scallion oil. Served in small dishes, these bite-sized delicacies are eaten with a special sweet-savory fish sauce.
• Banh nam: Flat steamed rice dumplings with seasoned pork and shrimp wrapped in banana leaves. The tender, translucent wrapper and savory filling offer a unique texture and taste.
• Goi ca Nam O: Raw fish salad from Nam O village cured in citrus, mixed with herbs, green mango, and chili sauce. Represents the village’s centuries-old fish sauce tradition with its perfect balance of sour, spicy, and umami.
• Oc hut (Snails): Various types of sea snails cooked in lemongrass, chili, and herbs, served with ginger fish sauce. Best enjoyed at streetside stalls where you can watch the skilled vendors extract the meat.
• Seafood: Fresh seafood from local waters, including grilled squid, steamed clams with lemongrass, and salt-grilled fish. Best enjoyed at beach-side restaurants in My Khe or Man Thai fishing village.

7.2. Where to eat in Da Nang?

Wondering where to indulge in authentic Da Nang food? This coastal city’s vibrant food scene offers endless opportunities to eat like a local, from traditional Da Nang markets to bustling street food havens and Da Nang restaurants. 

At the heart of Vietnam Da Nang’s food culture lies Con Market, the city’s largest traditional market where locals gather throughout the day for authentic meals. The market’s food court becomes particularly lively during lunch hours. While smaller in size, Han Market holds its own with exceptional street food vendors dishing out perfectly executed Da Nang specialties. 

Additionally, its dedicated food streets offer some of the best local dining experiences in Da Nang map. Phan Tu Food Street buzzes with local eateries, while Huynh Thuc Khang Street is famous for its seafood and traditional noodle shops. Tran Thi Ly Bridge Food Street offers scenic riverside dining, and Pham Hong Thai Food Street draws crowds with its diverse street food stalls and casual restaurants.

Con Market, a bustling spot for those looking to explore Da Nang food (Source: Collected)

For dinner and late-night cravings, the night markets in Da Nang in Vietnam offer unforgettable dining experiences. Helio Night Market combines traditional flavors with a modern ambiance, featuring dozens of vendors serving both classic Vietnamese dishes and creative fusion food. Meanwhile, Son Tra Night Market lets you enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties with cool ocean breezes and waterfront views.

For seafood enthusiasts, the strip of restaurants along Pham Van Dong Street represents Da Nang’s premier destination for the ocean’s bounty. Here, restaurants display their daily catches in live tanks, and chefs prepare local specialties like grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves and aromatic steamed clams with lemongrass. This is where locals go when they’re craving the ocean’s freshest offerings.

8. Suggested Da Nang itinerary

Da Nang City captivates visitors with its perfect blend of modern attractions and ancient Vietnamese heritage, making it an essential stop in Central Vietnam. A typical 3-5 day visit allows time to explore the famous tourist attractions in Da Nang in Vietnam and experience the city’s dynamic food scene. Additionally, with the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary nearby, Da Nang serves as the perfect base for day trips that combine beach relaxation with cultural discovery.

Check out our recommended travel plans for inspiration on your upcoming Da Nang trip: 

• Da Nang itinerary: What to do in 1-5 days?
• Da Nang 3-day itinerary: Where to go, things to do and more
• Da Nang – Hoi An: Itineraries & extra tips for your trip

9. Things to notice when traveling to Da Nang in Vietnam

To make the most of your visit to Da Nang City while being a responsible traveler, here are some important things to keep in mind:

Beach safety

• Always check the flag warning system before swimming
• Swim in the morning hours (before 2 PM) as afternoon currents can become stronger, especially during summer months
• Stay within designated swimming zones
• Be aware that lifeguard presence varies by beach section and time of day
• Watch out for jellyfish warnings, which are more common during the rainy season

Travel tips for Da Nang are essential to ensure a smooth, hassle-free trip (Source: Collected)

Environmental conservation

• Bring reusable water bottles and shopping bags, as plastic waste is a significant issue in Vietnam
• When visiting Son Tra Peninsula, stay on marked trails to protect the habitat of endangered species
• Support local eco-friendly tours and accommodations that practice sustainable tourism
• Participate in local beach cleanup initiatives if available – many hotels organize these activities
• Avoid purchasing souvenirs made from endangered species or marine products like coral

Cultural tips

• Remove shoes before entering temples, pagodas, and local homes
• Dress modestly at religious sites – cover shoulders and knees
• Use both hands when giving or receiving items from locals
• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: “xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), “xin lỗi” (excuse me)
• Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas or at religious sites
• Avoid public displays of affection, which are generally not well-received in Vietnamese culture

In Da Nang’s embrace, every traveler finds their own piece of paradise. Whether chasing sunsets at My Khe Beach, discovering ancient traditions at the Cham Museum, or savoring a steaming bowl of mi Quang by the Han River, this coastal city weaves unforgettable moments into lasting memories. Let the warmth and vibrancy of Da Nang in Vietnam captivate your heart.

For an extra dose of excitement, venture 40km south to VinWonders Nam Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s largest theme parks. This entertainment complex combines thrilling rides with Vietnamese cultural elements, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. With convenient transport options from Da Nang City and proximity to the ancient town of Hoi An, it’s worth setting aside a full day to experience this modern attraction that showcases Vietnam’s playful spirit.

• Just a short drive from Da Nang, VinWonders Nam Hoi An promises a joyful outing
• Regular cultural performances such as traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and folk art offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture up close
• The River Safari lets visitors take a boat ride to observe animals in a natural environment

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

Da Nang has the most spectacular beaches of Central Vietnam, together with numerous stunning architectural works, long-standing traditional handicraft villages, ancient temples, cultural museums, and unique tasty dishes. The city also has the best hotels and resorts offering 5-star facilities and world-class services.