Blog Vietnam Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Da Nang

• Dry Season (February - August):
• Weather: Warm and mostly sunny, with average temperatures around 25-35°C.
• Beach Season: Ideal for beach activities like swimming and water sports at My Khe Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, and the Son Tra Peninsula.
• Top Events:
• Danang International Fireworks Festival (usually held in late April or early May).
• Dragon Boat Festival (typically in June).
• Best Months: February to May offers more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
• Avoid Rainy Season (September - January):
• Weather: Rainy and potentially stormy, with temperatures ranging from 18-25°C.
• Conditions: Heavy rains may disrupt outdoor plans, but it’s a good time for indoor attractions like museums and culinary experiences.
  

Best hotels & hostels in Da Nang

Da Nang, one of Vietnam's most vibrant cities, is known for its beautiful beaches, dynamic nightlife, and close proximity to attractions like the Marble Mountains and Hoi An. Here’s a list of some of the best hotels and hostels in Da Nang, catering to various budgets and preferences.

• PĀMA Boutique Hotel & Bistro

• Hadana Boutique Hotel Danang

• Sanouva Danang Hotel

• Brilliant Hotel

• Awaken Danang Hotel

• Melia Vinpearl Danang Riverfront

• Danang Marriott Resort & Spa

• Four Points by Sheraton Danang

How to get there

Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam, is easily accessible from most major cities in the country. Here are the main ways to reach Da Nang:

1. By Plane

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Da Nang from other Vietnamese cities, like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

• Duration: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes from either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
• Airport: Da Nang International Airport (DAD), located just a few kilometers from the city center.
• Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways all have frequent flights to Da Nang.
• Getting to the City: From the airport, you can take a taxi, Grab (ride-hailing service), or airport shuttle to reach your accommodation in the city.

2. By Train

The train is a scenic and comfortable option, especially if you’re coming from nearby cities like Huế or Nha Trang. The rail journey to Da Nang is known for its beautiful coastal views.

• Duration:
• From Hanoi: Approximately 15-17 hours.
• From Ho Chi Minh City: Around 16-18 hours.
• From Hue: Only 2.5-3 hours along one of the most scenic stretches of railway in Vietnam.
• Types of Trains: SE trains (like SE1, SE3, etc.) offer sleeper and seating options, with varying levels of comfort.
• Benefits: The train ride offers stunning views of the Hai Van Pass, especially if you’re traveling from Huế.

3. By Bus

Traveling by bus is a budget-friendly option, with both sleeper and express buses available from most major cities.

• Duration:
• From Hanoi: Around 16-18 hours, usually overnight.
• From Ho Chi Minh City: About 18-20 hours.
• From Hue: Roughly 2.5-3 hours.
• Types of Buses: You can choose between sleeper buses and more comfortable limousine buses.
• Departure Points: Buses to Da Nang usually depart from major bus stations in each city.

4. By Private Car or Taxi (From Hue or Hoi An)

For a comfortable and flexible journey, particularly if you’re traveling from nearby Huế or Hoi An, hiring a private car or taxi is a great choice.

• Duration:
• From Hue: About 2-3 hours via the Hai Van Pass or Hai Van Tunnel.
• From Hoi An: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Benefits: You can make stops along the way for sightseeing, like at Marble Mountains, Hai Van Pass, or Lang Co Beach.

5. By Motorbike

For adventurous travelers, taking a motorbike to Da Nang offers a scenic and exciting way to explore central Vietnam, especially if you’re coming from Huế or Hoi An.

• Duration:
• From Hue: About 3-4 hours.
• From Hoi An: Approximately 1-1.5 hours.
• Route: The Hai Van Pass is a popular route for riders coming from Huế, offering breathtaking views of the coast and mountains.
• Requirements: Make sure you have a valid motorcycle license and are comfortable with long-distance riding.

How to get around

Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam, is a gateway to beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the stunning Marble Mountains. With its well-developed infrastructure, getting around Da Nang is convenient and enjoyable, whether you’re exploring the beaches, the city center, or surrounding attractions. Here’s a guide to the best ways to get around Da Nang:

1. Motorbike Rental

• Best For: Flexible travel, independent exploration, and accessing attractions outside the city.
• Description: Renting a motorbike is one of the most popular ways to explore Da Nang. It gives you the freedom to move at your own pace and reach spots like Marble Mountains, Lady Buddha, and Son Tra Peninsula easily. Motorbikes can be rented from shops or hotels, with daily rates starting around 100,000–150,000 VND.
• Popular Destinations by Motorbike:
• Marble Mountains: A short ride south from the city center.
• Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain): Known for its scenic views and giant Lady Buddha statue.
• Tips:
• Be cautious with traffic, especially during rush hours, as roads can be busy.
• Wear a helmet and make sure your bike is in good condition before setting out.

2. Bicycle Rental

• Best For: Relaxed exploration of beach areas and nearby attractions.
• Description: Da Nang’s flat terrain makes it an excellent city for biking. Bicycle rentals are common in beachside areas, where you can ride along My Khe Beach or take a leisurely trip around the city center. Hotels and rental shops offer bikes for daily or hourly rates.
• Suggested Routes:
• Beachfront Path: Cycling along My Khe Beach and Non Nuoc Beach is scenic and relatively traffic-free.
• City Center to Dragon Bridge: Ideal for exploring the city’s highlights.
• Tips:
• Da Nang can get very hot, so plan your ride in the morning or evening.
• Stick to designated paths and avoid busy streets during peak hours for a safer ride.

3. Taxi and Grab

• Best For: Comfortable, air-conditioned rides and convenient city transport.
• Description: Taxis and Grab (a popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam) are widely available throughout Da Nang, making them ideal for short trips around the city or quick rides to the airport. Taxi fares are metered, and Grab offers fixed pricing through the app, which can be more affordable.
• Tips:
• Use Grab for a straightforward fare and convenient pickup.
• Stick with reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun to avoid any issues.

4. Private Car with Driver

• Best For: Families, groups, or travelers wanting comfort for longer trips.
• Description: Hiring a private car with a driver offers flexibility, comfort, and air-conditioning, which is perfect for full-day explorations or trips to surrounding areas like Hoi An or Ba Na Hills. Many local agencies and hotels provide car rental services with drivers.
• Suggested Itinerary by Car:
• Da Nang City ➔ Ba Na Hills ➔ Hoi An Ancient Town: This is a popular full-day route for exploring nearby attractions.
• Tips:
• Arrange car rental in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Discuss your itinerary with the driver to ensure you cover everything you want to see.

5. Bus

• Best For: Budget-friendly travel to specific destinations.
• Description: Da Nang has a public bus system with routes connecting various parts of the city and nearby areas. The bus route from Da Nang to Hoi An is particularly popular among budget travelers, costing around 30,000 VND each way. Buses are air-conditioned, though they can be infrequent.
• Tips:
• Check the schedule in advance, as buses may not run as frequently outside the city center.
• Bring cash in small denominations to pay for the fare.

6. Dragon Bridge and River Cruises

• Best For: Evening sightseeing and scenic views along the river.
• Description: Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge is a popular landmark that lights up at night, with a fire-breathing show on weekends. Many companies offer river cruises along the Han River, providing a beautiful nighttime view of the city’s bridges and illuminated skyline. You can book tickets for these cruises along the riverside or through your hotel.
• Tips:
• Plan to see the Dragon Bridge show on weekends (Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM).
• Some river cruises include refreshments and music, so compare offerings before booking.

7. Walking

• Best For: Exploring the city center, beaches, and nearby attractions on foot.
• Description: Da Nang’s city center is relatively walkable, especially around Han Market, Dragon Bridge, and the Riverside Park area. Walking is also ideal for the beachfront promenade, where you can enjoy seaside views, visit cafes, and take in the local atmosphere.
• Popular Walking Areas:
• Dragon Bridge and Bach Dang Street: Scenic walk along the river with shops, cafes, and great views of the bridge.
• My Khe Beach Promenade: A beautiful spot for a sunrise or sunset walk.
• Tips:
• Carry water and wear sunscreen, especially if walking along the beach during the day.
• Early mornings and evenings are ideal for a comfortable walk.

8. Ba Na Hills Cable Car

• Best For: Reaching Ba Na Hills and enjoying panoramic mountain views.
• Description: The Ba Na Hills Cable Car is a scenic ride to the top of Ba Na Hills, known for the Golden Bridge, French Village, and various attractions. Located about 30 km from Da Nang, the cable car takes you up to the hills in about 20 minutes, offering beautiful views along the way.
• Tips:
• Plan for an early start, as Ba Na Hills can get crowded during the day.
• Dress in layers, as temperatures at the top are often cooler than in Da Nang.

Top Experiences in Da Nang

Da Nang, located along Vietnam’s central coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, modern vibe, cultural attractions, and proximity to world-famous heritage sites. A gateway city to UNESCO sites like Hoi An and My Son, Da Nang also has its own charms, from scenic mountains and bridges to thriving food and nightlife scenes. Here are the top experiences in Da Nang:

1. Marveling at the Golden Bridge on Ba Na Hills

• Overview: The Golden Bridge, supported by two giant stone hands, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic structures, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• What to Expect: The bridge is part of Ba Na Hills Resort, where you’ll also find a French village replica, flower gardens, and an amusement park.
• Highlights: The 150-meter-long bridge provides panoramic views of Da Nang’s hills and forests, especially magical in the early morning when it’s often shrouded in mist.
• Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures. A cable car ride to the resort itself is a scenic experience, offering sweeping views over the region.

2. Exploring the Local Culture and Ethnic Villages

• Overview: Known as one of Asia’s most beautiful beaches, My Khe stretches for 35 kilometers along Da Nang’s coast, with soft sand and clear blue water.
• What to Expect: This beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. There are also beachfront cafes, restaurants, and lounges for a relaxing day by the sea.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from April to September provides ideal beach weather.
• Additional Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding are available for those seeking adventure, while early mornings are popular with locals who gather for tai chi and beach yoga.

3. Exploring the Marble Mountains

• Overview: A cluster of five marble and limestone hills, each named after one of the five elements (metal, water, wood, fire, and earth), the Marble Mountains are a spiritual site with pagodas, caves, and viewpoints.
• Highlights: Climb Water Mountain (Thuy Son) to explore natural caves like Huyen Khong Cave, which houses Buddhist shrines illuminated by sunlight filtering through natural skylights.
• What to Expect: The mountains are dotted with temples, shrines, and even small marble workshops where you can see artisans at work.
• Tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps and some steep areas. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

4. Walking Across the Dragon Bridge

• Overview: The Dragon Bridge, a unique structure that resembles a giant dragon, spans the Han River and is an iconic symbol of Da Nang.
• Highlights: Every Saturday and Sunday evening at 9:00 PM, the dragon breathes fire and water, creating a captivating show for onlookers.
• Best Viewing Spots: Riverside cafes or the nearby Tran Thi Ly Bridge provide excellent vantage points.
• Photography Tip: Visit at dusk to capture the bridge with the city lights as the backdrop, or head over on weekend nights to see the fire show.

5. Taking in the Views from Son Tra (Monkey) Mountain

• Overview: Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, offers lush rainforest, beaches, and viewpoints overlooking Da Nang.
• Experience: Drive or hike up the mountain to visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue, which provides expansive views of the coastline and city.
• Highlights: The peninsula is also a nature reserve home to rare species like the red-shanked douc langur, a type of monkey unique to the region.
• Best Time for Views: Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and temperatures are cooler.

6. Sampling Da Nang’s Street Food Scene

• Overview: Da Nang’s cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and local specialties.
• Must-Try Dishes:
• Mi Quang: A turmeric-flavored noodle dish topped with shrimp, pork, peanuts, and fresh herbs.
• Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with rice paper and herbs.
• Bun Cha Ca: A fish cake noodle soup that’s light, refreshing, and packed with local herbs.
• Best Places to Eat: Han Market and Con Market are great spots to explore local dishes, while many street vendors and small eateries around the city serve these dishes at affordable prices.

7. Visiting the Cham Museum

• Overview: The Cham Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Cham artifacts, giving insight into the ancient Champa Kingdom that once ruled parts of central Vietnam.
• What to Expect: Exhibits include stone carvings, statues, and relics from Cham temples, illustrating the culture’s Hindu and Buddhist influences.
• Highlights: The museum is particularly known for its sculptures of Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
• Historical Insight: This is an ideal stop before or after visiting the My Son ruins (an hour away from Da Nang), providing context for the Champa civilization.

8. Day Trip to Hoi An Ancient Town

• Overview: Da Nang’s nightlife is lively, with riverside bars, rooftop lounges, and beach clubs offering a variety of experiences.
• Popular Spots:
• Sky 36: A rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city and Han River, perfect for enjoying cocktails and city lights.
• Beachside Bars: Spots like A La Carte’s rooftop bar and the surf bar scene at My Khe Beach offer relaxing spots with ocean views.
• Dragon Bridge Night Show: End the night with the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show if you’re out on a weekend.
• Tip: For a quieter evening, enjoy a riverside café where you can watch the illuminated bridges and city lights.