Discover Da Nang: Coastal Vietnam’s Nature and Culture Bliss

Best time to visit Da Nang

Da Nang’s tropical monsoon climate divides the year into two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season, lasting from January to July, is prime for tourism. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature is around 25ºC.

June is the warmest month, with an average temperature of 29ºC, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities, beach relaxation, and exploration. This attracts travelers from both Vietnam and abroad. Meanwhile, the coldest month of the year in Da Nang is February, with an average temperature of 21ºC.

The rainy season, from August to December, brings slightly cooler and more humid weather, along with brief but frequent showers. Rainfall doesn’t last long—typically just one or two hours. Though occasional cold spells may occur, they’re mild and short-lived, allowing visitors to enjoy Da Nang’s attractions almost year-round.

However, note that during the national holidays, like the Lunar New Year, April 30th, and September 2nd, the city can be super crowded.

Danang at night with fireworks over the Han River and the vibrant city skyline.

How to get to Da Nang

Da Nang is accessible from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) by various means of transportation. The quickest option is flying, with direct flights from both cities, taking about 1.5 hours from Hanoi and 1 hour from HCMC. Several airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air, operate daily flights.

Airfare from Hanoi to Da Nang ranges from $30 to $70 one-way, while flights from HCMC to Da Nang cost around $40 to $80, depending on the airline and time.

If you prefer slow travel, you can take the Reunification Express train, also known as the North-South railway for great views of the countryside. The train ride takes about 15-17 hours from Hanoi and about 16-20 hours from HCMC. Buses are also available, with travel times of 16-24 hours, depending on the route.

Where to stay in Da Nang

Da Nang is Vietnam’s most liveable city. It’s true, for both locals and travelers. My Khe Beach is perfect for beach lovers as it’s lined with lots of beachfront resorts, hotels, and cafes. If you’re looking for ocean views and great amenities, consider Furama or Pullman Resort. Meanwhile, A La Carte Da Nang and the Mandila Beach Hotel, which are close by, provide decent accommodations at a less expensive rate.

For those wanting easy access to the city center, Hai Chau District is a great option. Here, you’ll find markets, restaurants, and the famous Dragon Bridge. The An Thuong area is probably best for lively nightlife. The whole place is bustling with bars, pubs, and restaurants that attract foreign tourists and locals alike. If you’ve been to Bui Vien in HCMC or Ta Hien in Hanoi, you know what it’s like here.

Meanwhile, a bit far from the city center, the Son Tra Peninsula is ideal for nature enthusiasts with eco-lodges and great coastal views.

What to eat in Da Nang

Da Nang has a delicious mix of coastal cuisine and local specialties. Must-try dishes include Mi Quang, a savory turmeric noodle dish often topped with pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs. Try it at Mi Quang Ba Mua, a restaurant chain with multiple branches in the city, for an authentic experience.

Mi Quang is a savory turmeric noodle dish often topped with pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs. Source: Tripadvisor

Another local favorite is Banh Xeo, crispy rice pancakes filled with shrimp and bean sprouts, best enjoyed at Banh Xeo Ba Duong. Bun Cha Ca, a fish cake noodle soup, is another Da Nang specialty. Head to Bun Cha Ca 109 for a try.

Banh Xeo is a crispy rice pancake filled with shrimp and bean sprouts. Source: Tripadvisor

Are you a seafood lover?

You can never have enough fresh seafood delicacies here. Browse around Vo Nguyen Giap Street. It’s tightly lined with hundreds of beachfront seafood restaurants.

Don’t miss out on the local coffee scene.

You may already know, or not, but Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter after Brazil. It’s known for its robusta beans, which are strong with bold flavor and high caffeine content. XLIII Coffee on Ngo Thi Si Street and Six On Six Cafe on Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street are loved by foreign tourists. If you’re a fan of Cong Cafe, which has loads of branches in Hanoi or HCMC, Da Nang has a few of these chains.

Vietnamese coffee has a bold flavor and high caffeine content. Source: Tripadvisor

12 Things to do in Da Nang

Da Nang has no shortage of fun activities for every type of traveler. Under the warm, sun-kissed weather during the day and breezy chill at night, the whole city waits to be explored at all corners. Some of the best things to do in Da Nang include:

1. Sunbathe on the beaches

Who would refuse to go get a tan on the beaches in Da Nang? Trust me on this. Da Nang has some of the best beaches in Vietnam. My Khe Beach always tops the list. Stretching over 10 kilometers, My Khe is renowned for its soft, white sand and gentle waves, making it perfect for lounging or swimming.

For a quieter experience, head to Non Nuoc Beach, which offers a serene atmosphere and great views of the Marble Mountains in the background. Both beaches are ideal for sunbathers, families, and anyone looking to unwind by the sea. With loads of beachfront cafes nearby, you can sip a refreshing drink while soaking up the sun.

Da Nang has some of the best beaches in Vietnam. Source: Tripadvisor

2. Check out the Dragon Bridge

A visit to the Dragon Bridge (also known as Cau Rong) is on everyone’s bucket list when traveling to Da Nang. Construction started in 2009 and finished in 2013. This icon is the 6th and the latest bridge that spans the Han River. It’s famous for its dragon-shaped design facing toward the ocean, symbolizing power and prosperity.

By day, the bridge is a nice check-in spot for tourists, but it truly comes alive at night when it illuminates with vibrant colors. Every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM, the dragon breathes fire and water. This is a spectacular show that attracts both locals and tourists. It’s a fantastic experience for families, couples, and photographers alike.

The Dragon Bridge is famous for its dragon-shaped design that symbolizes power and prosperity. Source: Tripadvisor

3. Get a view of Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains (also known as Ngu Hanh Son) are a group of five limestone hills located over an area of ​​about 2 square kilometers south of Da Nang. Each mountain is named after an element of nature: Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth.

Hiking up the mountains rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This includes the coastline and the city below. Visitors can explore caves, temples, and pagodas nestled within the mountains. This is a great activity for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those interested in Vietnamese culture.

To reach the Marble Mountains, you can either walk up the stairs or take the elevator at door number 2. Exploring the whole area will take around 2 hours.

Marble Mountains from a distance. Source: Tripadvisor

4. Visit Linh Ung Pagoda (located on Son Tra Peninsula)

Linh Ung Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located on the Son Tra Peninsula. It’s known for its 67-meter-tall statue of the Lady Buddha. The pagoda offers not only a spiritual experience but also breathtaking views of the coastline and Da Nang city.

An interesting fact about Linh Ung Pagoda is that, for some reason, it’s one of three pagodas in Da Nang sharing the same name. Situated in highly attractive hotspots, they create a “sacred triangle” within the city. The other two are located on Water Mountain of Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills, respectively.

This site is ideal for those seeking peace as well as families looking for cultural enrichment and a tourist’s favorite spot for some nice photographs.

Linh Ung Pagoda is known for its 67-meter-tall statue of the Lady Buddha. Source: Tripadvisor

5. Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills

Located about 35 kilometers west of Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is a vast mountain resort famous for its cool climate and beautiful, fairytale-inspired structures.

This is where you’ll find the iconic Golden Bridge (also known as Cau Vang), supported by gigantic stone hands. The cable car ride to the top is one of the longest in the world, with a total length of 5042 meters. During a 20-minute ride, you’ll get to see breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests.

Once at the top, visitors can explore the French village, enjoy thrilling rides at the amusement park, or simply enjoy the sights. Ba Na Hills is perfect for families and group tourists wanting to spend a fun day together in Da Nang.

The iconic Golden Bridge is a part of Ba Na Hills. Source: Tripadvisor

6. Explore Son Tra Peninsula

Located about 10 kilometers northeast of Da Nang city center, Son Tra Peninsula is a nature lover’s paradise. Often called Monkey Mountain or Nui Khi, it’s home to diverse wildlife, including the rare red-shanked langur.

Visitors can ride a motorbike up winding roads to discover stunning viewpoints. This area is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city. Bring your binoculars and camera—wildlife spotting awaits.

Son Tra Peninsula is also home to several serene beaches, like Tien Sa Beach, Bai Cat Vang Beach, and Bai Da Den Beach. For a luxurious escape, the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort offers a lavish retreat with jaw-dropping views, world-class amenities, and an elegant blend of nature and opulence.

A panoramic city view from Son Tra Peninsula. Source: Tripadvisor

7. Explore the Museum of Cham Sculpture

The Museum of Cham Sculpture on No. 02, 2/9 Street in Hai Chau District is a nice spot for history buffs and art lovers. Located on the west bank of the Han River near one end of the Dragon Bridge, it has the world’s largest collection of Cham artifacts.

The total area of the museum is 6,673 square meters, of which the exhibition area is about one-third. The facade of the museum is inspired by Gothic architecture, in harmony with the surrounding space.

Here, you’ll find over 500 sculptures and relics from the ancient Cham civilization. All are divided into rooms corresponding to the areas where they were found. The museum’s informative displays make it easy to understand Cham culture and history.

The museum has over 500 sculptures and relics from the ancient Cham civilization. Source: Tripadvisor

8. Cruise on the Han River

A Han River cruise is one of the best ways to experience Da Nang. If you’ve been on a Saigon River cruise in HCMC, you know what to expect on the Han River.

Departing in the evening, these cruises slowly glide along the river, offering views of glowing landmarks. Some of these include the Dragon Bridge, Love Lock Bridge, and the city’s waterfront. Some cruises include dinner, live music, and cultural performances. This makes a cruise like this a perfect activity for couples, families, and groups.

A Han River cruise is also a chance to see the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show from a unique angle. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a laid-back way to have a chillout night, this cruise never makes you think twice.

A Han River cruise is a perfect activity for couples, families, and groups. Source: Tripadvisor

9. Explore the 3D Museum Art in Paradise

Art in Paradise Da Nang is a quirky, fun-filled 3D museum that’s perfect for visitors of all ages. Located on Tran Nhan Tong Street, it’s a place where art isn’t only for the connoisseurs but also for the fun-seekers.

The museum features over 130 artworks in 9 theme areas, all made by 20 artists from Korea. Here, visitors step into optical illusions, literally becoming part of the paintings. Pose on a flying carpet, escape a dinosaur, or dive underwater without getting wet!

This museum is ideal for families, friends, and anyone looking to capture some unique photos and laugh along the way. If you’re in the mood for something creative, playful, and interactive, this site deserves a look-around.

Art in Paradise Da Nang is a quirky, fun-filled 3D museum. Source: Tripadvisor

10. Have fun at the Mikazuki Water Park 365

Mikazuki Water Park 365 is a Japanese-style indoor water park located on Nguyen Tat Thanh Street. It’s open year-round and offers endless fun activities, from water slides to hot spring baths. Together, families can enjoy wave pools, lazy rivers, and kid-friendly areas, while adults might relax in designated facilities.

For kids, Mikazuki has the longest indoor slide and the second-largest indoor artificial sea in Vietnam. For parents, the park offers restaurants, cafes, a relaxing onsen hot mineral bath, and a beauty spa for some much-needed pampering.

The park’s indoor setting ensures the weather never spoils your fun. Perfect for families, groups, and anyone seeking a fun day, Mikazuki is a place where excitement meets relaxation, all in a touch of Japanese culture.

Mikazuki offers endless fun activities, both indoors and outdoors. Source: Mikazuki Water Park 365

11. Relax at Hot Springs Park

Hot Springs Park in Da Nang, also known as Suoi Khoang Nong Than Tai, is a perfect escape for those seeking wellness. Located just outside Ba Na Hills, this park offers a variety of hot spring baths, mineral pools, mud baths, and sauna services.

The mineral-rich waters here are believed to have therapeutic benefits. This includes improving circulation, detoxifying the skin, and reducing stress. Like Mikazuki, here, families can enjoy water games together, while adults can relax in onsen baths.

Don’t miss out on the “Longevity Egg.” This is a unique boiled egg dish cooked in hot mineral water. A sneak peek at how it tastes—the yolk is firm, while the white remains soft, making it too good for a health-boosting delicacy.

Hot Springs Park has some of the best mineral pools, mud baths, and sauna services in Da Nang. Source: Hot Springs Park

12. Stroll around Son Tra Night Market

Located near the Dragon Bridge, Son Tra Night Market is a lively spot for food and fun. The market opened in 2019 and is situated on Ly Nam De Street. Although it may appear to cater mainly to locals, it draws plenty of foreign tourists as well.

The market comes alive in the evening, typically after 5 PM, with a diverse selection of local street food, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Visitors can indulge in Da Nang’s street food while exploring stalls filled with clothing, accessories, and local art. With live music, street performances, and games, it’s the perfect spot for an enjoyable evening.

Tip: Always check prices before making a purchase, as many stalls offer the same items. Comparing prices ensures you get the best deal and avoid being overcharged.

Son Tra Night Market is a lively spot for food and fun. Source: Tripadvisor

Useful travel tips in Da Nang

Planning a trip can be hard. Here are some essential travel tips on how long to stay, can’t-miss events, and money matters to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Recommended duration of stay

Plan to stay at least 3 days to see the main attractions, including the beaches, Marble Mountains, and Son Tra Peninsula. However, if you want to take it slow and explore more of the nearby areas like Ba Na Hills, consider extending your stay to 4 or 5 days. This way, you can experience Da Nang at a leisurely pace and not feel rushed.

Local events and holidays

Your visit to Da Nang might align with some of the city's exciting local events. The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival is a summer highlight with spectacular displays over the Han River. Other events include the Da Nang International Marathon, the Boat Racing Festival, and the Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Money exchange and payment

ATM machines are easy to find in Da Nang. While cash is the most common payment method, many larger restaurants, hotels, and shops accept credit cards. You can also use bank transfers at some places. Remember to carry some cash, especially when visiting local markets. Exchange money only at official counters for the best rates.

What’s next?

After a trip to Da Nang, you have two great options to keep the fun going. First, you can head north to Hue, about 100 kilometers away. Known for its rich history, Hue was the imperial capital of Vietnam and is famous for its well-preserved citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas. The city’s Perfume River flows through, adding to its serene, reflective atmosphere. For history buffs or anyone keen on Vietnamese culture, Hue offers a journey back in time, with a more relaxed pace than Da Nang.

The second option is to go south to Hoi An, about 30 kilometers away. A visit to Hoi An usually requires only a day or two, making it ideal for a short trip. This charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient streets, lantern-lit evenings, and tailor shops. You can explore colorful temples, quaint cafés, and beautiful riverside settings, along with sandy beaches just a short ride away. With its blend of history, culture, and a touch of the sea, Hoi An is a perfect follow-up to your Da Nang trip.

The Oxalis Experience.