Da Nang Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Da Nang and How to Get There 2024
The fourth largest city in Vietnam, Da Nang is a laidback city that lies halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. Known for its lush nature and unspoiled beaches, Da Nang is where time seems to move slower — or at least, when compared to other chaotic cities!
There’s something for every kind of traveller here: beach bums, history buffs, nature lovers, adventure seekers, and foodies. And for the budget-conscious, how does saving up to 45% off attractions with the Klook Pass Da Nang sound?
Best time to visit Da Nang
As with most Southeast Asian destinations, Da Nang is distinctly characterised by two dry and wet seasons. The dry season is from January to September, with average temperatures of 26 to 35 degrees celsius. June to August are typically the hottest months of the year, with it being hot and humid most of the season. Avoid Da Nang from October to March during the rainy season, which is also when most beach activities will come to a screeching halt.
In fact, it seems like January is a good time to visit Da Nang — with average temperatures of around 21 degrees celsius. February to May bring mild spring temperatures too, with frequent clear skies.
How to get to Da Nang
Plane
Photo credit: Airports Corporation of Vietnam
Fly directly into Da Nang International Airport, before booking an airport transfer into town.
Train
There’s just something so endearing about long scenic train rides. If you can spare the time, why not turn your transport into an experience in itself with a 16-hour train ride from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh.
Bus
For a more budget option, a 17- to 20-hour bus ride will bring you to Da Nang from Ho Chi Minh. The bus from Hanoi can be faster, with the quickest option weighing in at just over 10.5 hours.
Getting around Da Nang
Car charter
Have the flexibility to plan your own itinerary — without having to go through the headache of sorting out all the itty bitty transport details. If that sounds like a dream, go with a private car charter — where you can get chauffeured around with both half- and full-day charters available.
Motorcycle
What say you to seamlessly cruising along the roads on a motorcycle? Rent one for a day from just S$15.90, and choose to either return it in Da Nang or Hue.
Bus
Photo credit: Airports Corporation of Vietnam
Choose from different bus routes that will bring you all around the city. Each ride will cost around VND5000 (~S$0.26), which you can pay to the driver once you board.
Taxi
Photo credit: Grab
Grab is commonly used in Da Nang, so go ahead and download their app to seamlessly book your rides.
#KlookTip: Always have a screenshot of your destination’s address to show your Grab driver who, more often than not, will not be able to speak English. Having a picture of your destination helps too!
Bicycle
Photo credit: TNGo
Burn off the calories from all that yummy food by getting around on a bicycle! The roads in Da Nang are much quieter, making for great biking conditions. You’ll find lots of rental shops along Bach Dang street.
There are also public bicycle rental services available, where you can unlock bicycles on the street with the TNGo app (download it from the App Store or Google Play).
Tour
There’s so much to see, and so little time! If you’re pressed for time, why not opt for a tour that checks off all the major spots? See a different side of Da Nang on this night tour, or explore both Da Nang and Hoi An on this full-day tour. If you want to see more, this 3D2N tour hits all the hot spots of Da Nang, Hoi An, Marble Mountains, and Golden Hands Bridge — plus the option to visit either the Coconut Forest or Cham Islands.
This is also our favourite tour of all: a private check-out tour that brings you to Hoi An (including a lantern release in the river) and Thanh Ha Pottery Village before heading to the airport for your flight. What an ingenious way to sightsee after checking out of your hotel with nowhere to go, huh! You’ll even be able to throw all your luggage onto the bus to enjoy the day empty-handed.
Best things to do in Da Nang
1. Work on your tan at a beach
Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s best beach destinations, and it’s easy to see why. Head to the popular My Khe beach — Da Nang’s longest beach — where surfing conditions are fantastic between November and March.
Take a surfing lesson; go jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boating; and refuel at plenty of beachfront cafés and bars. Other beaches include Non-Nuoc beach, Pham Van Dong beach, and Xuan Thieu beach.
#KlookTip: Set your alarms, as My Khe beach is a great sunrise spot!
2. Stroll along Bach Dang Street
Photo credit: Fa2f on Wikimedia Commons
Gain insight into local life at Bach Dang street, which stretches along the western bank of the Han River. Take a languid saunter along the riverfront promenade, check out the marble art pieces, and even go for a cruise along the Han River.
The street also plays host to various festivals throughout the year, such as Spring Flowers street, Street Music Performance festival, and the annual International Fireworks festival.
3. Check out the Dragon Bridge
You can’t miss the Dragon Bridge, which lies majestically over the Han River. Time your visit for Saturdays and Sundays at 9pm — when the bridge will come alive with water and fire displays where, yes, fire shoots out from the dragon’s mouth!
4. Drop by a museum
Photo credit: Gary Todd on Flickr Creative Commons
Calling all history buffs! Immerse in culture at one of Da Nang’s museums. Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which has a gigantic line-up of Cham art and artefacts; the Museum of Da Nang; as well as the Zone 5 military museum, which has both outdoor and indoor areas.
5. Catch a traditional show
What better way to learn about local culture than by watching a traditional show? Book a ticket for the Ao Dai show, which tells the stories of Da Nang’s imperial court back during the Ngyuen Dynasty. The Hon Viet show is also worth watching, which showcases the ancient Vietnamese ‘Tuong’ opera. Alternatively, be mesmerised by the Charming Da Nang show, which is set to the tunes of traditional Vietnamese music.
6. Bring the little ones to 3D Museum Art in Paradise
Did you know that Da Nang is home to Vietnam’s biggest 3D art museum? The 3D Museum Art in Paradise has over nine zones, with over 130 immersive trick-art photo ops. Get your cameras ready!
7. Snag a bargain at a market
Han Market is the beating heart of Da Nang — watch the locals shop for fresh produce in the morning, and hunt down souvenirs. Con Market is known for its wholesale goods, and its wide range of clothing. Don’t miss out on the night markets, such as Helio, Cho Dem Son Tra An Thuong, Le Duan, Thanh Khe Tay, and Hoa Khanh night markets.
#KlookTip: Don’t be shy to bargain at Han Market. In fact, a general rule of thumb is to try bargaining for at least a 30 to 40% reduction in price.
8. Sign up for a class or workshop
As much as we keep our fingers crossed for fantastic weather throughout our trips, there’s no guarantee that we won’t be met with the odd rainy day or two. Stay cosy indoors (and keep your bellies warm!) by signing up for a cooking class, or even a coffee-making class.
9. Indulge in an afternoon tea
Afternoon tea is often known to be a rather pricey affair. However, in Da Nang, you can indulge your tastebuds with an afternoon tea spread for just S$9.69 — and in a hotel setting, no less! Snag this deal at Peninsula Hotel; other deals include afternoon tea for two pax at Risemount Premier Han River (which, yes, overlooks the Han River!) for $18.99; or for two pax at Risemount Premier Danang Resort for a mere $15.
Feeling hungry? Loosen your waistbelts for an afternoon tea and dessert buffet at Furama Resort Danang for $23.85. If you want to turn the experience into a whole-day affair, check out this daycation at Intercontinental Da Nang that throws an afternoon tea session into the mix.
Day trips from Da Nang
10. Marvel at the Golden Hands Bridge
Have you seen the famous picture of two giant hand sculptures cradling a shining golden yellow bridge? That’s the Golden Hands Bridge at Ba Na Hills, which can only be reached via cable car. Ba Na Hills itself is a resort and entertainment complex nestled in the Truong Son mountains. It has lots to offer: have fun at the Fantasy Park, French Village, Alpine Coaster Road, wax museum, and more.
Ba Na Hills can be reached in 45 minutes from Da Nang. To get there, hire a private charter, or take a shuttle bus.
11. Venture out to the Marble Mountains
Around 45 minutes from Da Nang, the Marble Mountains comprise five limestone outcrops — which are said to represent the five elements of wood, fire, water, earth, and wood. The Marble Mountains are full of mysterious caves, some of which contain Buddhist shrines and pagodas.
Take your time to explore the hidden grottoes; bookmark the popular Huyen Khong cave, which has multiple openings on its roof that let in gorgeous streaks of natural light. Don’t miss the Linh Ung pagoda as well, which is famous for its 67-metre-tall Lady Buddha statue.
In fact, both of the above attractions are located along the scenic Son Tra Peninsula, which offers spectacular views. The peninsula is also colloquially known as Monkey Mountain or the ‘green lungs of Da Nang’, due to its rich flora and fauna. Go swimming and snorkelling on this half-day tour — or explore the area via a private jeep, motorbike, sidecar tour; or even onboard a yacht. Otherwise, what say you to enjoying the views from a different perspective whilst paragliding?
12. Bring the family to a hot springs park
30 minutes from Da Nang, the Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park is great for a fun day out with the family! Adults can rejuvenate themselves with a soak in the green tea onsen or mud spa, while the little ones will love the wave pool and water slides.
Another option is Mikazuki Water Park, around 20 minutes from Da Nang. Japanese-inspired, the establishment is part onsen, part water park (which has the longest water slide in Vietnam!).
13. Go on an adventure
Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Go on a thrilling rafting escapade along a river, and zoom through the air on a zipline at Hoa Phu Thanh Park (30 minutes from Da Nang)! If the little ones are clamouring for more, have a whirl at the Downtown Da Nang amusement park back in the city.
#KlookTip: Need some calming respite after a day of thrills? Pamper yourself at one of Da Nang’s many spas.
14. Play golf
Hit a hole at one of Da Nang’s sprawling golf courses. Hone your skills at Ba Na Hills or Laguna Lang Co golf clubs. These golf courses are often pretty remote; sit back in relax in this private car charter that will bring you to Hoiana Shores, Vinpearl Golf Nam Hoi An, or Montgomerie Links golf clubs.
15. Experience the beauty of Hoi An
Just 45 minutes from Da Nang lies Hoi An ancient town, a photogenic town full of warm yellow shophouses. A UNESCO World heritage site, the town’s buildings are adorned with colourful lanterns which look even more beautiful after dusk. Go on a boat ride and set a lantern afloat in the Hoai River — it’s a truly enchanting sight.
Drop by the nearby Bay Mau Coconut Forest too (ten minutes from Hoi An), where you’ll have the chance to float along in a cute little bamboo basket boat.
#KlookTip: If you have the time, travel one hour from Hoi An to Tam Thanh Village. The once dilapidated fishing village has now been revitalised with around 100 murals, which were painted by Vietnamese and South Korean artists.
16. Learn about history at My Son Sanctuary and Hue
Da Nang is located around one hour from My Son Sanctuary, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Conduct your own temple run among more than 70 Hindu temples, the ruins of only 20 of which remain.
If you want to venture further out, the historical Hue is around 2.5 hours from Da Nang. Hue is full of historical sites too, including the Thien Mu pagoda, and Hue Imperial Citadel.
17. Drive along the Hai Van Pass
If you’re after scenic views, definitely make time for the Hai Van Pass that connects Da Nang to Hue. Translated to mean ‘ocean cloud pass’, the panoramic pass is located at a lofty 500 metres above sea level; and is said to be the highest pass in Vietnam. The pass is best explored via motorcycle; join a motorcycle tour or, this private sidecar tour might be right up your alley.
18. Find paradise at the Cham Islands
If you’re more of the beach bum sort, make a beeline for the Cham Islands. Consisting of one main island surrounded by eight small islands, Cham Islands make for a less-touristy beach paradise. Just 20 minutes away by speedboat, the islands boast pristine beaches, as well as ideal diving and snorkelling conditions. Top it all off with a fresh seafood feast, what’s not to like?
What to eat in Da Nang
19. Mì Quảng
Photo credit: Jpatokal on Wikimedia Commons
Dig into a hearty bowl of Mì Quảng, a bowl of noodles immersed in a turmeric bone broth. The noodles are topped with meat, quail eggs, fresh herbs, and peanuts. Round it off with some lemon and chilli for a refreshing spicy and sour kick. Try this dish for yourself at any of the street stalls; and at the Ba Vi, Ba Minh, or Ong Hai restaurants.
20. Bún Chá Cá
Photo credit: Everyday English on Wikimedia Commons
If you’re a fan of fish, you’re in the right place! Bún Cá is a noodle dish where the stars of the show are the fishcakes. The broth is simmered together with bamboo, pineapple, tomato, and cabbage, giving it a fresh zingy taste. Slurp up a bowl at 109 Nguyễn Chí Thanh or Bà Phiến.
21. Bánh mi
Photo credit: nsaum75 on Wikimedia Commons
Bánh mi is one of Vietnam’s quintessential food. Think of it as a sandwich that has been brought to another level, where the fragrant crispy bread hits the sweet spot every, single, time. Sink your teeth into one at Banh My Ba Lan or Ong Ty Cha Bo Banh Mi.
22. Bánh Xèo
Photo credit: HungryHuy on Wikimedia Commons
Here’s one tip for you: the best way to eat Bánh Xèo is straight from the pan. A thin and crispy pancake is filled with pork, shrimp, mushrooms, beansprouts, and onions, complete with a glorious crunch with every bite. Grab one (or two!) from Ba Duong Banh Xeo or Jumping Shrimp Banh Xeo.
23. Bún Mắm Nêm
Photo credit: Duy Nguyen on Flickr Creative Commons
Bún Mắm Nêm is a noodle salad of sorts slathered with a strong anchovy sauce, alongside pork, vegetables, papaya, and peanuts. The anchovy sauce is the anchor of the dish, with many restaurants claiming to have secret recipes that have been passed down through the generations. The dish is traditionally served with boiled pork; however, there have been versions with roasted pork for more flavour. Sample it at Mrs. Van restaurant or Bun Mam Tran Ke Xuong.
24. Bánh Tráng Cuốn Thịt Heo
Photo credit: Grab
Hands up if you love the traditional Vietnamese rice paper rolls! The Bánh Tráng Cuốn Thịt Heo consists of sliced pork rolled in rice paper, complete with lots of raw vegetables and herbs. Dip it into a tangy sweet and sour sauce — or Mắm Nêm anchovy sauce — for an addictive snack. Pop roll after roll into your mouth at Quan Dai Loc or Quan Ba Mua restaurants.
25. Go on a food tour
Can’t get enough? Discover Danang’s best eats on a guided food tour. Embark on a walking food tour, a motorcycle food tour, or a motorcycle tour led by Aodai-clad women bikers. How’s that for a one-of-a-kind experience!
To sample the classics, the Vietnamese set menu at Grand Mercure Da Nang checks all the boxes. Or, head to Tran Restaurant for the Da Nang local specialities dining experience, which uses the freshest vegetables from their garden (which are grown without any pesticides).
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