Why visit Da Nang

Da Nang is a modern coastal city in central Vietnam, sandwiched between mountains and the sea. The best things to do in Da Nang center around its long sandy beaches, striking modern bridges, and easy access to nearby heritage sites.

This city will appeal to travelers who want a convenient, clean base with city amenities and natural beauty. However, those seeking ancient, preserved charm might find it less compelling than its famous neighbors, Hoi An and Hue.

One Minute History Lesson

Da Nang’s history is tied to its strategic port. It was a major trade hub for the ancient Champa Kingdom and later became a key colonial port for the French. They called it Tourane and developed its infrastructure. During the American War, the city hosted a massive United States airbase.

This history is visible in the military museums and the city’s modern layout. Today, Da Nang has shed its past to become one of Vietnam’s most dynamic and forward-looking cities, a symbol of the country’s economic rise.

Da Nang at a Glance

• Known For: Long sandy beaches, the fire-breathing Dragon Bridge, and a launchpad for visiting Hoi An and the Marble Mountains.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from February to August offers sunny skies.
• Getting There: Da Nang International Airport (DAD) has great domestic and regional connections. Regular trains and buses link Da Nang to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue.
• How Long to Stay: 2–3 nights to explore the city and beaches. Stay 4–5 nights to include day trips to Hoi An, My Son, or Hue.
• Average Daily Spending:
  • Budget: 800,000–1,200,000 VND ($31–$47 / €29–€43)
  • Mid-Range: 1,500,000–2,500,000 VND ($59–$98 / €54–€90)
  • Luxury: 4,000,000+ VND ($157+ / €145+)

Planning Your Trip to Da Nang

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Da Nang is during the dry season, which runs from February to August. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for the beaches. The peak months are June and July, which bring higher temperatures and larger crowds of domestic tourists. For more comfortable weather and fewer people, consider visiting between February and May.

The rainy season lasts from September to January. This period sees frequent rain and the potential for typhoons, especially in October and November. While travel is still possible, many outdoor activities may be disrupted.

How Long to Stay in Da Nang

Two or three days in Da Nang is enough to see the city’s main highlights. This allows time to relax on My Khe Beach, see the Dragon Bridge, and explore the Son Tra Peninsula. A perfect Da Nang itinerary of three or four days lets you add a day trip to the Marble Mountains and the ancient town of Hoi An without feeling rushed.

How to Get to Da Nang: Transportation Options

Getting to Da Nang is straightforward due to its central location and modern infrastructure.

From Hanoi, the fastest option is a 1.5-hour flight. Alternatively, the overnight train offers a scenic journey that takes about 16 hours. Buses are the cheapest but longest option, taking around 17 hours.

From Ho Chi Minh City, flying is also the most practical choice, with the trip taking about 1.5 hours. Trains and buses are available but require a long journey of 17-20 hours, making them suitable only for those with plenty of time.

From Hue, the drive over the Hai Van Pass is an attraction itself. A private car or motorbike trip takes about 2.5-3 hours. Buses and trains are quicker and cheaper, taking about 2 hours through the Hai Van Tunnel. These depart from Hue’s central train and bus stations.

Getting Around

The city is flat and spread out, making ride-hailing apps like Grab and Xanh SM are the most popular choices for locals and tourists. Taxis are also plentiful but ensure the meter is used. For short distances, especially along the beach or riverfront, walking is pleasant.

Renting a scooter is a common option for confident riders wanting to explore freely, particularly the Son Tra Peninsula.

Is it Expensive to Visit Da Nang?

Da Nang is an affordable destination, offering better value than many other major cities in Southeast Asia. Food, transport, and accommodation are all reasonably priced.
While major attractions like Ba Na Hills can be costly, daily expenses are generally low.

• Budget Double Room: 250,000–700,000 VND ($10–$28 / €9–€25)
• Sit-Down Meal: 100,000–250,000 VND ($4–$10 / €3.60–€9)
• Typical Street Food: 30,000–60,000 VND ($1.20–$2.40 / €1.10–€2.20)
• Marble Mountains Entrance: 40,000 VND ($1.50 / €1.30)
• Beer in Bar: 20,000–40,000 VND ($0.80–$1.60 / €0.70–€1.45)
• Coffee at Cafe: 30,000–50,000 VND ($1.20–$2 / €1.10–€1.80)

Where to Stay in Da Nang: Accommodation Areas and Options

Da Nang offers a wide range of accommodations for every budget. The My Khe Beach area is the most popular place to stay in Da Nang. It is lined with hotels and resorts, offering direct beach access and great sea views. This area is ideal for those who want a classic beach holiday.

The city center, along the Han River, puts you close to the Dragon Bridge, markets, and local eateries. It offers a more urban vibe and is convenient for exploring the city’s attractions.

For a quieter experience, the foothills of the Son Tra Peninsula provide secluded resorts with stunning natural scenery.

The area south of the Dragon Bridge is developing quickly with modern apartments and boutique hotels, attracting long-term visitors.

Best things to See in Da Nang: Sights & Attractions

Da Nang offers a mix of natural landscapes and modern structures. The city’s sights range from long sandy coastlines to mountain pagodas. Many key locations are spread out, requiring transportation between them. Planning your day around specific areas like the Son Tra Peninsula can save travel time.

Da Nang Beaches

Together with neighboring Hoi An, Da Nang offers some of the best mainland beaches in Vietnam.📍My Khe Beach and 📍Non Nuoc Beach form the city’s main coastline. These long, clean, and wide stretches of sand face the East Sea and are backed by a fully developed strip of hotels, restaurants, and shops. The beaches are public and are known for their gentle slopes and generally calm waters outside of the monsoon season.

Visitors can rent a sun lounger or simply find a free spot on the sand. The water is suitable for swimming most of the year, and vendors offer water sports like parasailing. Local seafood restaurants set up tables on the sand in the evening. The atmosphere is busiest in the early morning and late afternoon when locals come to exercise and relax.

Son Tra Peninsula

The Son Tra Peninsula is one of Da Nang’s most rewarding areas to explore and works well as a half day trip. The loop road circles dense forest, steep cliffs, and open viewpoints that look over the entire coastline.

Key checkpoints include📍Linh Ung Pagoda with its Lady Buddha statue,📍Ban Co Peak which offers the highest viewpoint on the peninsula, and the ancient📍Son Tra Banyan Trees with its twisting roots and wide canopy. The road also leads to the quieter 📍Tien Sa Lighthouse and several small hidden beaches like Bai But and Bai Rang.

These coves sit below the cliffside and offer clear water and calm settings away from the main beaches. Wildlife is part of the experience and it is common to see monkeys, including the rare red shanked douc langur, along the roadside or in the treetops.

Much of the enjoyment comes from the drive itself, where you stop at roadside lookouts to admire Da Nang, the ocean, and the mountains from different angles.

Insider Tip
Some sections of the Son Tra Peninsula are restricted. Coastal roads and lower viewpoints are accessible, but the upper mountain roads, including the route to Ban Co Peak, have checkpoints where only semi automatic or manual bikes are allowed.

Linh Ung Pagoda (Son Tra Peninsula)

Linh Ung Pagoda is one of the best places to visit in Da Nang and should be included in your trip, even if you do not plan to explore the rest of the Son Tra Peninsula. The complex is known for its immense Lady Buddha statue, which rises 220 feet (67 meters) and is visible from much of the coastline. The temple grounds include prayer halls, gardens, and statues set against the backdrop of the sea.

You can walk through the peaceful courtyards and admire the architecture. From the viewing platform, you can see a wide sweep of Da Nang’s shoreline. This is an active place of worship, so you will see monks and locals offering prayers throughout the day.

• Hours and Tickets: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
• How to Get There: A 20-minute drive from the city center by taxi or motorbike.
• Travel Tip: Wear respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to enter the temple halls.
• 📍Linh Ung Pagoda on Google Maps

Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng)

The Dragon Bridge is one of the Da Nang top attractions, a modern crossing over the Han River and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Designed in the shape of a golden dragon, it links the city center with the beachside districts and serves as both a major traffic route and a symbol of the city’s contemporary identity.

During the day, it functions as part of the city’s everyday infrastructure, but the real experience happens on weekend nights. At 9:00 PM, the dragon’s head breathes fire and then spouts water. Crowds gather on the structure itself, along the riverbanks, and at rooftop bars to watch the short show.

• The fire and water show is on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:00 PM.
• Combines With: Han River Night Cruise, Love Bridge, Son Tra Night Market.
• 📍Dragon Bridge on Google Maps

Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Church)

Da Nang Cathedral is a Catholic church built during the French colonial period. Its notable feature is its pastel pink exterior. This has earned it the nickname “The Pink Church.” The building features a tall steeple with a weathercock on top.

This is an active church, so access to the interior may be limited during services. Most visitors take photos of the unique pink facade from the outside. The grounds are small and the visit is usually brief.

• Time Needed: 15 minutes.
• Combines With: Han Market, Da Nang Museum.
• Travel Tip: The church can be very busy with tour groups. Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience.
• 📍Da Nang Cathedral on Google Maps

Love Bridge (Cầu Tình Yêu)

🏆Best Spot in Da Nang for a Romantic Photo

The Love Bridge is a small pier on the Han River’s eastern bank and one of the highlights of what to see in Da Nang for couples. Modeled after famous love lock bridges, it invites visitors to attach padlocks to its heart shaped lanterns as a symbol of their relationship. The pier sits beside the well known carp turning into a dragon statue.

This is a popular spot for photos, especially in the evening, with clear views of the Dragon Bridge and the city skyline. You can buy locks from nearby vendors or simply enjoy a short walk along the pier. It can get crowded at night and on weekends.

• Combines With: Dragon Bridge show, Son Tra Night Market.
• 📍Love Bridge on Google Maps

Museums in Da Nang

Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
Largest collection of Cham artifacts from the 7th to 15th centuries. Located near Dragon Bridge. Open 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets 60,000 VND ($2.40/€2.20). (📍Location)

Da Nang Museum
Covers local history, culture, and wartime events across three floors. Central location. Open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Free entry. (📍Location)

Ho Chi Minh and Military Zone 5 Museum
Vietnam War museum with tanks, aircraft, and regional military history. Near the airport. Open 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, closed Mondays. Tickets 60,000 VND ($2.40/€2.20). (📍Location)

Da Nang Fine Arts Museum
Focuses on modern and contemporary Vietnamese art, with rotating exhibitions and works by local artists. Central location near the Han River. Open 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed Mondays. Tickets 20,000 VND ($0.80/€0.75). (📍Location)

3D Art in Paradise Da Nang
Interactive 3D art gallery with themed zones for photo illusions. South of the city. Open 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Tickets 200,000 VND ($8/€7.40). (📍Location)

>> Explore the guide to the best art galleries in Vietnam.

Best things to Do in Da Nang: Activities & Experiences

In this part of our Da Nang travel guide, we look at activities that highlight the city’s natural surroundings, from mountains and forests to beaches and rivers. Da Nang also offers modern entertainment parks and cultural villages. Many experiences take you beyond the center, such as driving the Hai Van Pass or cruising the Han River, each offering a different way to enjoy the landscape.

Drive the Hai Van Pass

🏆Best Thing to Do in Da Nang for Motorbike Riders

The Hai Van Pass is a 13 mile (21 kilometer) mountain road that connects Da Nang and Hue. It curves through the Truong Son range and offers sweeping views of the coastline. Its name translates to Ocean Cloud Pass, a reference to the mist that often gathers around its highest point.

You can rent a motorbike or hire a private car or jeep to make the trip. Many travelers use the pass as part of their journey between the two cities, while others treat it as a round trip excursion from Da Nang. The road is steep with many sharp turns, so confident driving is essential. Several viewpoints line the route, giving you plenty of chances to stop for photos.

Insider Tip
You can rent a scooter in Da Nang and return it in Hue, or do the same route in reverse. Many rental shops offer this one way service for travelers crossing the pass.

• How to Get There: The pass begins about 45 minutes north of Da Nang.
• Time Needed: 3–4 hours for a round trip from Da Nang with stops.
• Travel Tip: Start your drive in the morning for the best visibility and to avoid afternoon heat and potential rain.
• 📍Hai Van Pass on Google Maps

Take a Han River Night Cruise

A cruise on the Han River provides a different perspective of Da Nang’s cityscape. These evening boat trips glide past the city’s illuminated bridges, including the Dragon Bridge and the Han River Bridge, creating a scenic and calm way to experience the waterfront.

Cruises typically last from 45 to 90 minutes and many boats feature upper decks for open air viewing. Some also offer drinks or light entertainment such as traditional music. It is a relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and on weekends the departures are timed so passengers can watch the Dragon Bridge show from the water.

• Hours and Tickets: Usually run from 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Tickets cost 150,000–250,000 VND (~$6–$10/€5.50–€9.25).
• Travel Tip: Book your ticket in advance for weekend trips, especially if you want to see the Dragon Bridge show from the water.
• 📍Bach Dang Street pier on Google Maps

Visit Asia Park and Ride the Sun Wheel

Asia Park is a large amusement park on the west bank of the Han River. It is divided into zones inspired by different Asian countries and offers roller coasters, family rides, and cultural exhibits. Its standout attraction is the Sun Wheel.

This giant observation wheel rises 377 feet (115 meters) and provides wide views of Da Nang, especially after dark. The rest of the park delivers a classic theme park experience and is a good choice for families or visitors looking for modern entertainment.

• Hours and Tickets: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM (weekdays), 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (weekends). Park access is free. All-in-one tickets cost around 200,000 VND (~$8/€7.40).
• Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
• Travel Tip: Visit on a weeknight to experience much shorter queue times for rides compared to weekends.
• 📍Sun World Asia Park on Google Maps

Surf My Khe Beach

Da Nang’s long coastline offers reliable surfing, especially for beginners. My Khe Beach has gentle, consistent waves, with the main surf season running from September to March when northern swells arrive.

Surf schools and rental shops line the beach, making it easy to take a lesson or rent a board by the hour. The water stays warm year round, and conditions are usually best in the early morning before the wind increases.

• Prices: A 90-minute lesson costs about 1,000,000 VND (~$40/€37). Board rental is cheaper.
• 📍My Khe Surf Spot

Walkable Neighborhoods to Explore

This section highlights areas in Da Nang that are interesting to explore on foot. These neighborhoods may not have a single major attraction. Instead, their appeal comes from their atmosphere, local life, and small discoveries.

• Bach Dang Street Riverfront: This street runs along the west bank of the Han River in the city center. It is a wide, landscaped promenade perfect for an evening stroll. You can see the city’s illuminated bridges, watch river traffic, and find many cafes and restaurants.
• An Thuong Area: Known as the “expat quarter,” this neighborhood is located near My Khe Beach. Its grid of streets is filled with international restaurants, bars, hostels, and surf shops. It has a relaxed, traveler-focused vibe and is a good place to find Western food or meet other tourists.
• Local Streets around Han Market: The area west of Han Market provides a look at a busy commercial district. The small streets are packed with local shops selling everything from textiles to housewares. It is a dense, energetic part of the city where you can observe daily commerce.

Best Day Trips From Da Nang

Da Nang’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Central Vietnam. Many significant cultural and natural sites are within a few hours’ drive. These day trips offer a wider understanding of the region’s history and diverse landscapes.

The Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills just south of Da Nang. Each hill is named after one of the five elements.

The largest, Thuy Son (Water Mountain), is the main attraction and is accessible to visitors. You can climb the stone steps or pay for an elevator ride to the top. Inside, the mountain is filled with caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries. Huyen Khong Cave is the most striking, with a large Buddha statue illuminated by natural shafts of light. From the upper viewpoints, you can see the coastline, the city, and the surrounding flat plains.

Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village
At the base of the mountains lies Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, a traditional craft community that has produced stone sculptures for centuries. Workshops line the main road and display statues, decorative pieces, and religious carvings made from locally quarried marble. Visitors can watch artisans shaping stone by hand and browse small family run shops for souvenirs.

Iron Mountain (Kim Son)
Kim Son, known as Iron Mountain, is another peak within the cluster. While smaller and less visited than Thuy Son, it contains Linh Ung Pagoda and several lesser known caves. Its quieter paths offer a more peaceful alternative if you want to explore beyond the main tourist area.

• Water Mountain Hours and Tickets: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily. Entrance fee is 40,000 VND (~$1.60/€1.50). The elevator costs an additional 15,000 VND.
• How to Get There: A 15-minute drive from Da Nang city center by taxi or motorbike.
• Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
• 📍The Marble Mountains on Google Maps

Ba Na Hills (Including Golden Bridge)

🏆Best Place in Da Nang for a Full Day of Fun

Ba Na Hills is a mountaintop resort complex located in the mountains west of Da Nang. It was originally a French colonial hill station. Today, it is a large theme park with a replica French village, gardens, and rides. Access is via a Guinness record cable car system.

The main attraction for many is the Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng), a pedestrian bridge held up by two giant stone hands. The bridge and the park are a single destination requiring a full day and a significant entrance fee.

The weather can be cool and misty, even when it is sunny in Da Nang.

• Hours and Tickets: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily. Tickets cost 900,000 VND (~$35/€33) for adults, which includes the cable car and most attractions.
• How to Get There: A 45-minute drive from Da Nang. Tour buses, private cars, and taxis are the best options.
• Time Needed: a full day.
• Travel Tip: Arrive as early as possible to ride the first cable car up. The Golden Bridge becomes extremely crowded by mid-morning.
• 📍Ba Na Hills on Google Maps

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An is a well preserved ancient trading port located south of Da Nang. It is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site and is often ranked as one of the most romantic cities in Vietnam. The town is known for its yellow walled merchant houses, Japanese Covered Bridge, lantern lit streets, and a food scene considered among the best in the country.

During the day, you can explore the historic houses, temples, and museums. In the evening, the old town becomes pedestrian only and thousands of silk lanterns are lit. You can take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River or get custom clothing made at one of the many tailor shops.

Many travelers choose to stay in Hoi An for several nights to enjoy its unique atmosphere. Its slower pace contrasts with Da Nang’s city feel.

• How to Get There: A 45-minute drive from Da Nang by taxi, ride-share, or local bus.
• Time Needed: 4 hours to a full day.
• Travel Tip: Stay until after sunset to see the town illuminated by lanterns, which is its most famous feature.
• 📍Hoi An on Google Maps

Hue Imperial City

Hue was the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty. The city is located on the Perfume River, north of the Hai Van Pass. Its main attraction is the Citadel, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and fortifications.

A day trip allows you to visit the main sections of the Imperial City. You can also see the Thien Mu Pagoda and one of the royal tombs, like that of Khai Dinh or Minh Mang. The city has a more historical and formal feel compared to Da Nang.

Hue is a major destination in its own right. Many tourists stay for two or three days to explore the Citadel and the many royal tombs located outside the city.

• How to Get There: About a 2-hour drive via the Hai Van Tunnel or 3 hours over the Hai Van Pass. Train and bus services are also available.
• Time Needed: A very long day trip (10–12 hours).
• 📍Hue on Google Maps

My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is a complex of ruined Hindu temples built by the Champa Kingdom and set in a jungle filled valley. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates from the 4th to the 13th centuries.

Visitors can walk among the brick towers and learn about Cham history. Although parts of the site were damaged during the American War, many structures remain, and a small museum at the entrance provides helpful context. The overall setting is rural and quiet.

• Hours and Tickets: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily. Entrance fee is 150,000 VND (~$6/€5.50).
• How to Get There: About a 1-hour drive from Da Nang. Tours are widely available.
• Time Needed: Half a day (4–5 hours).
• Combines With: Often combined with a visit to Hoi An by tour operators.
• 📍My Son Sanctuary on Google Maps

Cham Islands (Cù Lao Chàm)

The Cham Islands are an archipelago of eight small islands off the coast of Hoi An, known for clear waters, coral reefs, and their protected marine park status. The main island, Hon Lao, has small fishing villages and simple beaches.

Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the water. Most visitors come on day tours that include boat transport, lunch, and gear. The islands offer a rustic, natural experience compared to the mainland.

Simple homestays are available on Hon Lao for a quiet overnight stay, though most travelers visit for the day.

• Hours and Tickets: Tours usually depart in the morning and return in the late afternoon. Prices vary starting at around 600,000 VND (~$24/€22).
• Time Needed: Full day.
• Travel Tip: The boat ride to the islands can be rough. If you are prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand.
• 📍Cham Islands on Google Maps

Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park lies between Da Nang and Hue and is known for its cool mountain climate, dense forests, and sweeping views of the coastline. Once a French colonial hill station, the area still has remnants of old villas scattered across the hillsides. The elevation brings a noticeable drop in temperature, making it a refreshing escape from the coastal heat.

A typical visit includes the short hike to the Bach Ma Summit, where a viewing tower overlooks the mountains and the sea. The Five Lakes Trail is another highlight, leading to a series of natural pools connected by small waterfalls. Birdlife is abundant, and the thick jungle scenery gives the park a remote, untouched feel.

Reaching Bach Ma requires a drive to the park entrance, followed by a shuttle or authorized vehicle transfer deeper into the reserve, since private motorbikes and cars are not allowed on the upper mountain roads. Because the logistics can be a bit complicated, taking an organized tour is often the easiest and most affordable option.

• Hours and Tickets: The park is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance fee is 60,000 VND ($2.40/€2.20).
• How to Get There: About a 1.5 to 2 hour drive from Da Nang by private car or tour. Independent travelers typically arrange a car to the entrance, then use the park’s shuttle.
• Time Needed: Full day.
• Travel Tip: Start early to enjoy cooler weather and clearer views from the summit. Bring water and proper footwear, especially if visiting after rain.
• 📍Bach Ma visitor centre on Google Maps

>> For more inspiration, explore the best places to visit in Vietnam.

Best Sunset Spots in Da Nang

Da Nang faces east, so the city is known for its ocean sunrises. Sunsets, however, unfold behind the city over the mountains, creating a softer but equally striking view.

Rooftop bars around the My Khe Beach area offer some of the best sunset vantage points, with colors shifting behind the skyline. The bridges along the Han River, such as the Dragon Bridge and the Tran Thi Ly Bridge, also give excellent views as the city lights come on.

For a more natural setting, driving partway up the Son Tra Peninsula provides a wide, panoramic look at the sun setting over the entire city and bay.

Local food in Da Nang

The local food in Da Nang is a major highlight and reflects both its coastal setting and central Vietnamese heritage.

To start, try Mi Quang, a Quảng style noodle dish known for its wide rice noodles, a small amount of turmeric infused broth, pork, shrimp, peanuts, and a crunchy rice cracker on top. Another must try is Bun Cha Ca, a light fish cake noodle soup with a clear broth and springy handmade fish cakes.

For something fresh, Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo offers sliced pork rolled in rice paper with herbs and dipping sauce. Throughout the city, especially along the beach, you will also find excellent seafood that showcases the region’s coastal flavors.

>> Discover the full list of 35 best dishes to try across Vietnam.

Where to Eat & Drink: Best Areas

For authentic local food, visit Con Market (Chợ Cồn) or Han Market (Chợ Hàn), where vendors serve regional dishes at low prices. You will also find many simple, family run eateries around the city center near Da Nang Cathedral.

For a more international mix, the An Thuong area near My Khe Beach is the main dining hub for expats and tourists, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars. If you want fresh seafood with ocean views, head to the coastal strip north of My Khe Beach, where many restaurants let you choose live seafood directly from the tanks.

Nightlife in Da Nang: What to Do After Dark

Da Nang’s nightlife is more relaxed than in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, yet there is still plenty to do. Most evenings start along the Han River, where people gather to watch the bridges light up. On weekends, the Dragon Bridge fire and water show draws crowds, and a river cruise offers a great view of the illuminated skyline.

For drinks, the An Thuong area is the main hub, with a mix of casual bars, open air pubs, and late night spots popular with both travelers and expats. Along the beach, several rooftop bars offer wide city views and cocktails at sunset. There are also a few nightclubs in the city, but the overall scene leans more toward relaxed lounges and lively social bars rather than all night clubbing.

Da Nang on a Budget

Traveling in Da Nang on a budget is easy. Street food is your best friend; you can eat delicious, filling meals for just a few dollars. Stick to local eateries away from the main tourist strips for the best prices. Use Grab for transportation, as it is generally cheaper than traditional taxis.

Many of Da Nang’s best experiences are free. Spend your days relaxing on My Khe Beach or exploring the Son Tra Peninsula by motorbike. Walking along the Han River and watching the Dragon Bridge show on weekends costs nothing.

Visiting local markets like Con Market provides a free, vibrant cultural experience, even if you just browse.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel Tips

Da Nang faces challenges with rapid development and coastal waste, so small choices can make a difference. Use a reusable water bottle, avoid plastic bags at markets, and support local communities by choosing family run eateries and buying handicrafts directly from artisans at Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village.

Activities to Avoid in Da Nang

Feeding monkeys on the Son Tra Peninsula
This encourages aggression and disrupts natural behavior. It is also a major cause of road accidents involving monkeys.

Visiting cafés on Son Tra that attract monkeys with food
A few informal stalls leave food out to draw monkeys for tourist photos. This directly harms wildlife and should be avoided.

Buying coral or dried starfish from beachside vendors
These items often come from destructive harvesting practices around Son Tra and Cham Islands.

Know Before You Go

Accessibility

Accessibility in Da Nang is improving but remains a challenge compared to Western standards. Newer hotels, resorts, and shopping malls often have ramps and elevators. However, older buildings and temples are not wheelchair-friendly. Getting around would likely require booking accessible private vehicles, as public transport is not equipped for wheelchairs.

Family with Kids Tips

Da Nang is a great destination for families. The long, sandy beaches provide plenty of space for kids to play. Asia Park offers an amusement park with rides and the large Sun Wheel for great city views. Many resorts have kids’ clubs and family-friendly pools. The city’s clean environment and wide range of food options make it a comfortable base for family-friendly activities in the region.

Without the Hype: Is Da Nang Worth Visiting?

Da Nang is a practical and pleasant city that excels as a comfortable hub. It offers a clean, modern urban experience right next to a beautiful coastline. Its true strength lies in its balance and convenience as a base for exploring the incredible destinations that surround it.

You’ll like Da Nang if:

• You want a beach vacation with city comforts and great food.
• You need a convenient and modern base to explore Hoi An, Hue, and My Son.
• You enjoy modern architecture and a clean, organized urban environment.

You might skip it if:

• You prefer off-the-beaten-path destinations with less development.
• Your trip is very short, and you prioritize historical sites over beaches.

If Da Nang does not fully match what you are looking for, these destinations offer a different style of travel:

• Phu Quoc. If you want tropical island beaches, palm lined shores, and a slower resort vibe.
• Ha Giang. If you are seeking dramatic mountain scenery, long motorbike routes, and true road adventure.
• Ho Chi Minh City. If you enjoy a fast paced, chaotic metropolis with a vibrant food scene and intense nightlife.

We hope this travel guide on the best things to do in Da Nang helps you decide if this vibrant city fits your travel interests. For more inspiration, explore the full collection of Vietnam travel guides. We wish you smooth planning and an unforgettable trip!