Things to do in Da Nang
If you’re looking for a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then you’ll want to check out the things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam. This beautiful coastal city has something for everyone, with plenty of activities and sights to explore. From swimming in crystal-clear waters to exploring ancient ruins, there are many interesting things to do in Da Nang. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to put Da Nang at the top of your list when planning your trip to Vietnam.
Da Nang is Vietnam’s fourth largest city and is located on the central coast. It’s a major port city and is known for its beaches, resorts, and temples. Da Nang is also home to Marble Mountain, a popular tourist attraction. There are plenty of things to do in Da Nang, including sightseeing, shopping, eating out, and swimming. The weather is hot and humid year-round, so make sure to pack your sunscreen!
Da Nang is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Vietnam. Situated on the coast, it offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains. Da Nang is also home to a large number of temples and pagodas, as well as vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from, as well as a great shopping scene.
When to Visit Da Nang
Da Nang is located in Vietnam and is a great place to visit all year round. The climate is tropical so it can get very hot during the summer months, but the beaches are still worth a visit. The season you can choose to visit Da Nang is winter when the temperatures are cooler and there is less rainfall. The best time to visit Da Nang is from December to April when the weather is cool and dry. The city can get very hot during the summer months, so it’s best to avoid visiting that time.
Where to Stay in Da Nang
Plenty of options are available to stay in Da Nang, whether you’re looking for a hotel, a homestay, or something on a budget.
If you’re looking for a hotel, the best place to start is TripAdvisor. You can find ratings and reviews of hotels in Da Nang, as well as photos and videos of the properties. Prices vary depending on the hotel you choose, but options are available for all budgets.
If you’re interested in staying with a family in Da Nang, there are homestays available that offer rooms and meals. These can be a great way to experience Vietnamese culture and hospitality. Homestay prices vary depending on the size of the home and the amenities offered, but they generally fall within the 750-200 INR range per night.
My Stay in Da Nang - Bare Han Homestay
Bare Han is a homestay in the heart of Da Nang. It’s run by a Vietnamese family who offers a warm and welcoming home to guests. The location can’t be beaten – right in the center of town close to Indochina Riverside Mall, Song Han Bridge, and Love Lock Bridge Da Nang. The rooms are comfortable and clean with air conditioning, Wifi, and breakfast included in the price. The staff is friendly and helpful. They can provide information about what to see and do in the area, and they’re happy to help with anything you need.
You can also find various restaurants and shops nearby. This is an excellent option for budget-minded travelers who want to experience Vietnamese hospitality. I really enjoyed my time at Bare Han and would highly recommend it to anyone traveling to Da Nang!
Read more about homestays in Vietnam
How Many Days to Spend in Da Nang?
There are endless things to do in Da Nang, and most visitors find that they need at least three days to really experience all that the city has to offer. From its stunning beaches and delicious food to its rich history and culture, you can enjoy everything in Da Nang.
Start your day by exploring the city’s many temples and pagodas. Make your way to the top of Marble Mountain for stunning views of Da Nang and the surrounding area. In the afternoon, take a walk or bike ride along the Han River. Stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat. If you’re feeling adventurous, go swimming or parasailing at China Beach.
Also, experience some of the nightlife on offer. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from in the city center, and if you’re looking for something a little more lively, then head down to the beach where you’ll find plenty of beach bars playing music until late into the night.
Budget allocation for Da Nang
Da Nang is a beautiful city with a lot to offer to the tourists. However, it’s important to be aware of the daily costs you’ll incur while in the city. Let’s break down some of the most common expenses and how much you can expect to pay.
Food: A meal at a local restaurant will cost between 170-350 INR, while street food can be had for as little as 70 INR. Western food options are available but will be more expensive, with prices starting at around 500 INR.
Transportation: Taxi fares within the city center start at around 150-280 INR, while bus tickets cost between 30-40 INR.
Accommodation: One of the biggest expenses you’ll likely encounter is your accommodation. A hostel or budget hotel will cost around 800-1000 INR per night, while mid-range options start at around 2500 INR per night. If you’re looking for something luxurious, expect to pay upwards of 5000 INR per night.
Activities: Activities and famous attractions to visit would cost around 350-500 INR per day. Except for Ba Na Hills that will be more.
How to Get to Da Nang
By Air
Da Nang is a city located in the central part of Vietnam. If you are looking to get to Da Nang, there are several options available to you. The most popular way to get to Da Nang is by air. Daily flights are available at Da Nang International Airport from a variety of destinations around the world and major cities of Vietnam such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Da Lat. The cost for traveling from these major cities of Vietnam would be around 4000 – 7500 INR depending upon the length of the journey and when you book your ticket.
By Train
Train travel is a great way to see Vietnam. The railway system is well-developed, and the scenery along the way is spectacular. A journey from Hanoi to Da Nang takes about 16 hours, and costs around 1500 INR but it’s worth it. The trains are comfortable and the staff is helpful and friendly. There are several different classes of service, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Food and drinks are available on board, and there are also toilets and washing facilities.
By Bus
If you’re looking for an affordable way to travel to Da Nang, taking the bus is a great option. Buses depart from throughout Vietnam and typically cost around 1100-1500 INR. The journey usually lasts around 16-18 hours, depending on traffic, and makes stops in major cities along the way. The buses are comfortable and many have air conditioning, and most of them offer free Wi-Fi. However, keep in mind that the buses can be quite full during peak season, so it’s best to book your ticket in advance.
How to Get Around
There are many ways to get around in Da Nang. The most popular way is by motorbike. You can rent them from many places throughout the city. Be sure to wear a helmet, and drive carefully as the roads can be chaotic.
Another great way to explore the city is by bicycle. There are many bike paths throughout Da Nang, and it’s a fun way to see the sights without having to worry about traffic.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely way to get around, you can take a taxi or cab. Some buses go throughout the city, but they can be challenging to navigate if you don’t speak Vietnamese.
Sightseeing in Da Nang
Da Nang is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Vietnam. It is well known for its stunning beaches, interesting history, and delicious food. There are many famous attractions in Da Nang that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include the Marble Mountains, Cham Museum, Dragon Bridge, and Monkey Mountain.
Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains, located just south of Da Nang city, are an easily accessible and popular sightseeing spot. The five limestone peaks are named after the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. There are several ways to explore the Marble Mountains, including hiking up the trails to the summit or taking the cable car.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Marble Mountains is exploring the caves. Thuy Son cave is one of the largest and most popular; visitors can walk through a series of chambers with stalactites and stalagmites. There are also several Buddhist temples located in and around the mountains.
Tips: It can be quite hot and humid there, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. There aren’t many places to buy food or drinks near the mountains, so pack some snacks and drinks too. Be careful when climbing around the rocks as they can be quite slippery.
Admission: 40,000 VND (136 INR) per person; additional 15,000 VND (51 INR) for elevator access
Address: 52 Huyền Trân Công Chúa, Hoà Hải, Ngũ Hành Sơn
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 5:30pm
Linh Ung Pagoda
The Linh Ung Pagoda is a Buddhist temple that was built in honor of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. The pagoda is made up of three main areas: the main hall, the bell tower, and the lotus pond. The main hall features a statue of Avalokitesvara that is 26 meters high. The bell tower has seven floors, each with a different musical instrument. And the lotus pond is filled with thousands of lotuses in various colors.
The pagoda offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains, making it a must-see for visitors to Da Nang.
Tips: Be prepared for lots of steps – It’s a steep climb up to the temple. There are lots of monkeys around, so be careful not to leave your belongings unattended or they’ll be sure to snatch them away. Make sure to dress modestly when visiting the pagoda.
Admission: Free; donation optional for motorbike parking
Address: Chùa Linh Ứng, Hoàng Sa, Thọ Quang
Da Nang’s Beaches
The beaches in Da Nang are some of the most beautiful in all of Vietnam. My Khe beach is perhaps the most famous, but there are plenty of other beautiful beaches to explore as well. Lang Co beach is one of my favorites – it’s located close to the Hai Van Pass and offers stunning views of the mountains in the distance. Nearby China Beach is quieter and great for walks.
The beaches here are beautiful, well-known for their white sand and clear waters, and there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, and more.
Tips: It can get pretty hot during the day, so make sure to bring some sunscreen and a hat. Make sure to pack some food and drinks if you’re planning on staying for a while.
Admission: Free
Address: Along the oceanside of Võ Nguyên Giáp and Trường Sa
Dragon Bridge & Han River
The Dragon Bridge is a beautiful sight to behold and the perfect place for a romantic walk or bike ride. The dragon’s head moves up and down, and its eyes light up at night. It’s an impressive sight, especially at night when it’s lit up. It’s a must-see attraction in Da Nang. Another must-see attraction is the Han River. It runs right through the city and offers some great views. You can take a boat ride, rent a bicycle, or just walk along the riverbank. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby if you want to stop for a bite.
Tips: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas that are not well-lit or populated. Avoid walking alone at night and try to travel in groups whenever possible.
Admission: Free
Address: Cầu Rồng Bridge
Da Nang Cathedral
The Da Nang Cathedral, located in the heart of downtown Da Nang City, is a beautifully designed pastel pink Catholic church. Completed in 1992, the cathedral features a soaring spire and intricate stained glass windows. The inside of the church is just as impressive, with its grandiose architecture and marble flooring. The Da Nang Cathedral is a popular tourist attraction and is often used for weddings and religious ceremonies.
Tips: Dress conservatively, and do not speak loudly or disturb others.
Admission: Free
Address: 156 Đường Trần Phú, Hải Châu 1, Hải Châu
Opening Hours: 5:00am – 5:30pm
Cham Museum
The Cham Museum in Da Nang is a must-see for any visitor to the city. It is home to the world’s largest collection of Cham art and artifacts, comprising over 5,000 pieces. The museum is housed in a beautiful traditional Cham-style building, and the exhibits are arranged chronologically, providing an overview of Cham art and culture from its origins to the present day. Highlights include intricate stone carvings, delicate gold jewelry, colorful ceramic urns, and beautiful religious statues.
Tips: Start with the ground floor and work your way up. This will help you get a better understanding of the evolution of Cham art. Be respectful and don’t touch the artwork.
Admission: 60,000 VND (204 INR)
Address: Số 02 2 Tháng 9, Bình Hiên, Hải Châu
Opening Hours: 7:00am – 5:00pm
Sun World Da Nang Wonders
Sun World Da Nang Wonders is a new tourist destination in the central coastal city of Da Nang. The project covers an area of more than 100 hectares, including areas for amusement parks, resorts, restaurants, and trade centers. This is also the first entertainment complex built by Sun Group in Da Nang.
The amusement park is the star attraction, with more than 30 rides and attractions including roller coasters, drop towers, and family-friendly rides. There’s also a simulated volcano eruption show. The water park is set in landscaped gardens with pools, lazy rivers, and slides for all ages, while the eco-park offers nature walks, bird watching, and biking trails.
Tips: It’s best to book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. It can be hot and humid during the day. Be sure to wear light clothing and sunscreen. Some rides and food vendors do not accept credit cards, so it’s best to have cash on hand.
Admission: 200,000 VND (682 INR) adults; 150,000 VND (511 INR) children between 1-1.3 meters (39-51 inches).
Address: 1 Phan Đăng Lưu, Hoà Cường Bắc, Hải Châu
Opening Hours: 3:00pm – 10:00pm
Sun World Ba Na Hills
Sun World Ba Na Hills is a theme park located in the hills outside of Danang. The park features a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, a water park, and a haunted house. The park is also home to the world’s largest outdoor Christmas village. Sun World Ba Na Hills is a popular destination for tourists visiting Da Nang and is sure to provide visitors with a fun-filled day out.
The highlight of the park is the Golden Bridge, which opened in June 2018. The bridge spans 150 meters (492 feet) and is suspended between two peaks of the mountain range. It has become a popular tourist destination, with over 1 million visitors in its first month of operation.
Tips: The temperature is much cooler than in the city, so dress appropriately. be sure to enjoy the views – they are simply breathtaking!
Admission: Adults: 750,000 VND (2500 INR); Children between 1-1.4 meters: 600,000 VND (2000 INR)
Address: An Son Village, Hoa Ninh Commune, Hoa Vang District
Opening Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm for the cable cars
Hai Van Pass
The Hai Van Pass is a mountain pass that connects the provinces of Thua Thien-Hue and Da Nang in Vietnam. It is 21 km long and climbs 487 meters from the coast. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sea and has been used for centuries by traders and travelers. The road through the pass is popular with motorcyclists and cyclists, who often stop to take photos of the breathtaking scenery. Take your time – there’s no need to rush, and you’ll want to enjoy the views!
Tips: Make sure you have a good map – the roads can be twisty and turny, and it’s easy to get lost. Drive carefully – the pass can be dangerous, particularly in wet weather.
Cham Islands
The Cham Islands are a 7-island archipelago located 20km offshore of Danang, Vietnam. The islands are a popular tourist destination, offering pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The islands are home to white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. They are also a great place to go diving or snorkeling. The main island, Hon Lao, is the largest and most populated of the islands. It is also home to the Cham Museum, which displays artifacts from the Cham people who once inhabited the islands.
There is no better way to explore the island than by bike. Bikes can be rented around the island.
Tips: There are no ATMs on the island, so be sure to bring enough cash with you. The sun is strong and the mosquitoes can be pesky, so be sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
Son Tra Peninsula
Son Tra Peninsula is located about 10 km from the center of Da Nang City. The peninsula has an area of nearly 6,000 hectares and a coastline of nearly 10 km. Son Tra is a popular tourist destination with many beautiful beaches, including My Khe Beach, Non-Nuoc Beach, and Hai Van Beach. The Son Tra Peninsula also has many interesting attractions, including the Monkey Mountain Summit, the Linh Ung Pagoda, and the Tran Thi Ly Bridge.
Tips: Rent a motorbike to explore the area. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Sample some of the local cuisines.
Admission: Free
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Son Tra Night Market
The Son Tra Night Market in Da Nang is definitely a standout. This market is open every night, and it’s home to some of the best street food in the city. Be sure to try the banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich made with pork, pate, and vegetables) or the fresh spring rolls. If you’re feeling adventurous, sample some of the exotic fruits on offer. In addition to great food, the Son Tra Night Market is also a great place to shop for souvenirs. There are dozens of stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts to modern electronics. Simply Enjoy your time here! This market is a great place for people to watch and take in Vietnamese culture.
Tips: Many stalls at Son Tra Night Market accept only Vietnamese dong, so make sure you have some on hand. Be prepared to haggle; many vendors will give you a lower price if you bargain.
Admission: Free
Address: Intersection of Lý Nam Đế and Mai Hắc Đế, An Hải Trung, Sơn Trà
Opening Hours: 6:00pm – 11:30pm
Explore HUE
Hue, located near Da Nang in central Vietnam, is a city steeped in history and tradition. While it’s possible to explore Hue in just a day, spending more time here will allow visitors to delve into the city’s many attractions. Start your visit at the Citadel, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Here you can wander through the palaces and temples, taking in the architecture and history.
A short walk from the Citadel is the Dong Ba market, where you can buy souvenirs or watch locals bargain for goods. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat ride on the Perfume River to see Hue from a different perspective. For lunch, try one of the local dishes like bun bo hue (a spicy beef noodle soup) or Banh khoai (a savory rice pancake).
The travel distance from Da Nang to Hue is 94 km. There is no flight between Da Nang and Hue, so you have two options to travel from Da Nang to Hue: taking a train or a bus/private car.
Where & What to eat in Da Nang
Bun Cha Ca
There’s nothing like sitting down to a bowl of Bun Cha Ca (Grilled Fish Cake Noodle). This delicacy is based on fish cakes made of mackerel filet, catfish, featherback fish, and black pepper. Bún chả cá is made with a delicate broth from fish bones, pumpkin, pineapple, tomato, and cabbage. Season it with lime, cayenne pepper, shallot vinegar, and fresh herbs.
Where to eat: Bun Cha Ca Ba Hon, 113/3 Nguyen Chi Thanh Hai Chau 1, Hai Chau, Da Nang
Mi Quang
Seated affairs with the central modified Vietnamese meal can be very stimulating. Tender rice noodles are laid on soft lettuce and sprouts. Crispy rice crackers, sliced banana blossom, and quail eggs are added, and a ladle of peanut broth with chicken, pork, or seafood garnishes the mix. Try it to nourish your body and spirit over a long, hot day.
Where to eat: Noodle shop Quang Ba Vi, 166 Le Đinh Duong Hai Chau, Da Nang
Banh Xeo
The edges of crepes that are baked piping hot and slightly crisp are melted into crepe dough sprinkled with turmeric, creating an exciting aroma. Each crepe is topped with crispy pork, shrimp, onions, beansprouts, and mushrooms, folded in half like a taco. Take the bite, roll with herbs and lettuce, and serve with sauce for a truly succulent sensation.
Where to eat: Banh xeo Ba Duong, K280/23 Hoang Dieu, Da Nang
Banh Beo, Banh Nam, Banh Bot Loc
These delicious dumplings are from Hue over the Hai Van Mountains, but even Da Nang locals can’t stop themselves from sinking their teeth into the exquisite texture. Rice flour, shrimp, and pork are steamed in banana leaf to create a glutinous bite with a dash of umami. A dash of light fish sauce lifts the taste. Enjoy all three preparations and hear which ones you like the best.
Where to eat: Banh beo, 291 Nguyen Chi Thanh St., Da Nang
Banh Mi
Banh Mi in Danang is a must-try when in the city. The sandwich is made of a baguette filled with grilled pork, pate, carrots, cucumbers, and daikon. It’s then topped with mayonnaise, Maggi seasoning sauce, and pepper. The Banh Mi here is delicious and crispy, making it the perfect snack or meal.
Where to eat: 1 Phan Châu Trinh St., Danang
Seafood
There are many famous foods in Da Nang, but one of the most famous is seafood. The seafood is so fresh here that it tastes like it’s straight from the ocean. You can find all sorts of seafood here, from shrimp to squid to crab. There are also many restaurants that specialize in seafood, so you’re sure to find something you love. If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic experience, be sure to try the seafood in Da Nang.
Where to eat: Hai San Be Man A, 11 Vo Nguyen Giap Son Tra, Da Nang
Long Cafe
Long Cafe’s displaying its bright red color makes it simpler than most places to know. Aside from unique bars that are decorated gracefully or possess magnificent features, Long Cafe has a distinctive atmosphere. They use small wooden tables and wooden seats to create this atmosphere. Although it’s nothing elegant, their unique items make the setting one of a kind. Those who drink coffee in Da Nang, particularly, visit this place. Only 10,000 VND is a reasonable price to get a cup of coffee here. In addition, patrons are ready to talk to their friends about standard things. When they come here, they tend to come with their buddies to meet up and talk.
Where to eat: 123 Le Loi – Hai Chau District – Da Nang
43 Factory Coffee Roaster
Factory Coffee Roasters is one of the most popular coffee shops in Danang. The shop is always busy with people coming in to enjoy a cup of coffee. Factory Coffee Roasters has a variety of coffee drinks on the menu, as well as pastries and sandwiches. The shop is open every day from 7 am to 11 pm. The industrial-chic space has a large roasting machine taking up most of the room, as well as a few small tables and chairs for customers to enjoy their coffee.
Where to eat: 422 Ngo Thì Sy St., Da Nang
Avocado Ice-cream
In Danang, Vietnam, there’s a new ice cream shop that’s serving up a unique flavor: avocado. The creamy fruit is one of the main ingredients in the ice cream, which also features chocolate and vanilla flavors. It is the preferred after-school snack for children. In the evenings in Da Nang, avocados consist of fresh fruit and creamy ice cream, in the form of creamy avocado gelato, which are perfect for mellow weather. A thick scoop of avocado gelato is separated with a mixture of coconut ice cream, with coconut flakes or jackfruit popping.
Where to eat: Cho Bac My An, Da Nang
Che
Vietnam’s guilt-free dessert is called che or sweet soup. Locals in Da Nang go down to the shops on balmy nights and eat che stained with lotus seeds or mung beans, or mix multiple ingredients (che thap cam) in them, then enjoy all of them with crushed ice and coconut cream. Different types of Che are formulated using beans from mung, peas, kidney beans, tapioca, jelly (clear or green), fruit (longan, mango, durian, lychee, or jackfruit), and coconut cream.
Where to eat: 31 Le Duan St., Da Nang
Shopping in Da Nang
Da Nang is a city located in Vietnam that is known for its beaches, food, and nightlife. However, it is also a great place to shop! There are many different places to shop in Da Nang, from small local stores to large international malls.
If you’re looking for an authentic Vietnamese shopping experience, you’ll definitely want to check out Han Market in Da Nang. This market is one of the largest in the city, and it’s home to everything from souvenirs to produce. Be prepared to bargain for the best price, and don’t forget to haggle!
Another best place to go is the Con Market, which is located in the heart of the city. It has a wide variety of items for sale, from paintings and handicrafts to T-shirts and sarongs. You can also find some great deals on jewelry, clothing, and other items.
The Big C Supermarket is a large, modern supermarket that has everything you could possibly want or need. They have a wide variety of products, including clothes, cosmetics, food, and household items. The prices are also very reasonable. If you’re looking for some good shopping in Da Nang, the Big C Supermarket is definitely the place to go!
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Danang?
The best time to visit Danang is between April and August because days with lesser rain and daylight hours make for more pleasant traveling and exciting outdoor activities.
What should I buy in Da Nang?
Handicrafts and Fine Art, Ao Dai (colorful and floral women’s wear), Conical Hat, Handmade Souvenirs, and Coffee.
What is Da Nang known for?
- The city is a popular tourist destination, with people coming from all over the world to enjoy its sandy shores and stunning scenery. Da Nang is also home to some of the best cuisines in the country, with locals serving up everything from traditional dishes to Western favorites.
What are the best day trips from Da Nang?
Some of the best day trips from Da Nang include a visit to the Marble Mountains, a trip to the ancient city of Hoi An, Cham Island, and a visit to the Son Tra Peninsula.
What are the most popular things to do in Da Nang with children?
Asia Park Da Nang, My Khe Beach, Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park, Non-Nuoc Beach, Vincom Shopping Centre, Cu Lao Cham Marine Park at Cham Islands, Marble Mountains.
What are the best outdoor activities in Da Nang?
Ride Around Son Tra Peninsula, Tour at Marble mountain, Snorkeling – Explore Cham Island, My Son Sanctuary Tour.
What are the top attractions to visit in Da Nang?
The Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge, My Khe Beach, Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda
What are the best day trips from Da Nang?
Son Tra Peninsula, Cham Islands, My Son Sanctuary, Museum of Cham Sculpture, Marble mountain.