Discover Da Nang

Your complete guide to this amazing destination

Discover the best things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam with our 2025 guide. Explore top attractions, hidden gems, and must-see places for an unforgettable trip. Plan your Da Nang itinerary today!

Discovery Insights

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Local Insider Secrets

1

To avoid the crowds at the Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills, arrive before 8:00 AM or after 4:00 PM. Enter through the main gate and head straight to the cable car for the Golden Bridge, skipping the French Village initially.

2

Use the MoMo app for paying for Grab rides and in many local shops. It often offers discounts and promotions. Top up your MoMo wallet at convenience stores like Circle K or Family Mart.

3

A realistic budget for 3 days in Da Nang is approximately 1,500,000 VND. This includes 300,000 VND for accommodation (budget guesthouse), 450,000 VND for meals (street food and local restaurants), 300,000 VND for transportation (motorbike rental), and 450,000 VND for attractions (Marble Mountains and Museum).

4

For authentic silk products and tailored clothing, visit the Hoi An Central Market. Bargain aggressively, starting at 50% of the initial price. Look for stalls with local tailors who have been in business for generations.

5

Avoid the seafood restaurants directly on My Khe Beach that prominently display English menus, as they often inflate prices for tourists. Instead, venture a few blocks inland to local eateries on Ho Nghinh Street, where you'll find fresh seafood at much lower prices.

6

The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival usually takes place in June or July. During this time, the city becomes very crowded, and accommodation prices increase. Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance, and be prepared for traffic congestion.

Dining & Food

Best Cafes

Cong Caphe,The Coffee House,43 Factory Coffee Roaster,Danang Souvenirs & Cafe

Top Restaurants

Lam Vien Restaurant,Banh Xeo Ba Duong,Madame Lan Restaurant,Seafood Be Man

Food Markets

Han Market,Con Market,Bac My An Market

6 Photo Spots

1

Dragon Bridge

Capture the dragon breathing fire at night from the riverside.

2

Marble Mountains

Capture panoramic views from the summit of Thuy Son (Water Mountain).

3

My Khe Beach

Capture the sunrise over the ocean.

4

Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)

Capture the panoramic view of Da Nang from Linh Ung Pagoda.

5

Han Market

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the market.

6

Da Nang Cathedral

Capture the unique pink facade of the cathedral.

Budget Breakdown

Free Activities

  • Relaxing on My Khe Beach
  • Visiting the Dragon Bridge (daytime)
  • Exploring Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
  • Wandering through Da Nang Cathedral

Budget-Friendly

  • Street food meal (20,000-50,000 VND)
  • Museum of Cham Sculpture (30,000 VND)
  • Renting a motorbike for a day (100,000-150,000 VND)
  • Coconut Coffee at Cong Caphe (30,000-50,000 VND)

Splurge-Worthy

  • Luxury resort stay (2,000,000+ VND per night)
  • Fine dining experience at a seafood restaurant (500,000+ VND per person)
  • Private tour of Ba Na Hills (1,500,000+ VND)
  • Custom-tailored clothing in Hoi An (prices vary)

6 Hidden Gems

1

Nom Co Be

Ask for extra peanuts and chili for an extra kick.

Quick Facts

Total Attractions: 12

Free Activities: 5

Average Time per Attraction: 30–60 minutes

Walking Friendly: Yes

Public Transport Quality: Good

Complete Da Nang Guide

1

Dragon Bridge

Moderate 2-3 hours

The Dragon Bridge is one of the most iconic sights in Da Nang. It's a massive steel dragon that breathes fire and water every Saturday and Sunday nigh...

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbank....
2

Marble Mountains

Moderate 2-3 hours

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone hills, each named after a different element: Kim (metal), Thuy (water), Moc (wood), Hoa (fire), a...

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved. Bring water!...
3

My Khe Beach

Moderate 2-3 hours

My Khe Beach is famous for its soft white sand and clear blue water. It's consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether y...

Rent a beach chair and umbrella for a relaxing afternoon....
4

Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)

Moderate 2-3 hours

Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, is a beautiful nature reserve with stunning views of Da Nang. Visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to a t...

Be respectful when visiting Linh Ung Pagoda; dress modestly....
5

Han Market

Moderate 2-3 hours

Han Market is a bustling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, souvenirs, and street food. It's a gre...

Bargain for the best prices, especially for clothing and souvenirs....

Dragon Bridge

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Dragon Bridge is one of the most iconic sights in Da Nang. It's a massive steel dragon that breathes fire and water every Saturday and Sunday night at 9 PM. Watching the spectacle is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Da Nang, and it's free! Even during the day, the bridge is impressive. I found the view surprisingly calming, watching the river flow underneath.

Insider Tip

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbank.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located over the Han River, easily accessible by taxi, motorbike, or walking from the city center.
Opening Hours: Best viewed during the fire and water show at 9:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Otherwise, open 24/7.
Cost: Free
Website: null

Marble Mountains

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone hills, each named after a different element: Kim (metal), Thuy (water), Moc (wood), Hoa (fire), and Tho (earth). Explore caves, temples, and pagodas nestled within these mountains. The views from the top are stunning, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline. Climbing up, I think, offers a great perspective on the surrounding landscape. Exploring the caves is definitely one of the best things to do in Da Nang.

Insider Tip

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved. Bring water!

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located about 9 km south of Da Nang city center. Take a taxi or motorbike.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Cost: Entry fee: 40,000 VND per person.
Website: null

My Khe Beach

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

My Khe Beach is famous for its soft white sand and clear blue water. It's consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or just relax by the sea, My Khe Beach is the perfect spot. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby. It's the kind of place you might linger longer than expected. It's definitely on the list of best things to do in Da Nang.

Insider Tip

Rent a beach chair and umbrella for a relaxing afternoon.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located east of Da Nang city center, easily accessible by taxi, motorbike, or walking.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7
Cost: Free
Website: null

Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, is a beautiful nature reserve with stunning views of Da Nang. Visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to a towering white Buddha statue. Hike or motorbike through the lush forests and keep an eye out for the resident monkeys. The views from the top are spectacular, offering a different perspective of Da Nang. Many consider it one of the best things to do in Da Nang, and I'm inclined to agree.

Insider Tip

Be respectful when visiting Linh Ung Pagoda; dress modestly.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located northeast of Da Nang city center. Rent a motorbike or take a taxi.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (Linh Ung Pagoda hours may vary)
Cost: Free (Linh Ung Pagoda donations accepted)
Website: null

Han Market

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Han Market is a bustling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, souvenirs, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and practice your bargaining skills. It's chaotic, colorful, and full of life. I think it's a must-see for any visitor. Exploring the market is one of the fun things to do in Da Nang.

Insider Tip

Bargain for the best prices, especially for clothing and souvenirs.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the city center, near the Han River.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily
Cost: Free (cost of purchases varies)
Website: null

Da Nang Cathedral

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Da Nang Cathedral, also known as the Pink Church, is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Built in 1923, it's a striking landmark in the city center. Take some photos and admire the intricate details of the building. It's a quick stop, but definitely worth seeing. It's a popular spot, and perhaps a bit touristy, but still beautiful.

Insider Tip

Check the mass schedule if you'd like to attend a service.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi, motorbike, or walking.
Opening Hours: Mass times vary. Open for visitors during daylight hours.
Cost: Free
Website: null

Museum of Cham Sculpture

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Museum of Cham Sculpture houses the world's largest collection of Cham artifacts. Learn about the history and culture of the ancient Cham civilization that once thrived in this region. The intricate sculptures are fascinating. If you're interested in history, this is a must-see. Some say it's one of the best museums in Vietnam.

Insider Tip

Hire a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the artifacts.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in the city center, near the Dragon Bridge.
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Cost: Entry fee: 30,000 VND per person.
Website: null

Ba Na Hills

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Ba Na Hills is a mountain resort with a French village, amusement park, and the famous Golden Bridge (Cau Vang). Take a cable car ride up the mountain for stunning views. It's a popular tourist destination, and can get crowded, but the Golden Bridge is truly unique. The views are breathtaking, but be prepared for crowds.

Insider Tip

Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located about 40 km west of Da Nang. Take a taxi or book a tour.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
Cost: Entry fee: 900,000 VND per person (includes cable car).
Website: null

Hai Van Pass

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

The Hai Van Pass is a scenic mountain road that connects Da Nang and Hue. It offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. Rent a motorbike or hire a driver to experience this breathtaking route. It's a popular spot for photographers and adventure seekers. I think it's one of the most beautiful drives in Vietnam. It's definitely one of the top attractions in Da Nang.

Insider Tip

Check the weather forecast before you go, as the pass can be foggy or rainy.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located north of Da Nang. Rent a motorbike or hire a driver.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7
Cost: Free (cost of transportation varies)
Website: null

Cong Caphe

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Cong Caphe is a popular Vietnamese coffee chain known for its unique atmosphere and delicious coconut coffee. The cafes are decorated in a vintage, military-themed style. It's a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere. The coconut coffee is a must-try! I found it surprisingly refreshing. It's a perfect spot to relax after exploring the city.

Insider Tip

Try the coconut coffee with condensed milk.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Multiple locations throughout Da Nang.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily (hours may vary by location)
Cost: Moderate (30,000 - 50,000 VND per drink)
Website: null

Banh Mi Phuong

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

While technically in Hoi An (a short trip from Da Nang), Banh Mi Phuong is a must-visit for any foodie. Anthony Bourdain famously declared their banh mi the best he'd ever had. Be prepared for a queue, but it's worth the wait! The bread is crispy, the fillings are flavorful, and the price is right. It's a simple sandwich, but incredibly delicious. It's worth the trip, I think.

Insider Tip

Go early to avoid the longest queues.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located in Hoi An Ancient Town (about 30 km from Da Nang). Take a taxi or bus.
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 9:30 PM daily
Cost: Budget-friendly (15,000 - 25,000 VND per banh mi)
Website: null

Nom Co Be

Moderate 2-3 hours Photo Spot

Nom Co Be is a local favorite for green papaya salad (nom). This simple street food stall offers a delicious and authentic taste of Da Nang. It's a great place to try local cuisine at a very affordable price. It's a bit of a hidden gem, and you might need to ask around to find it. But it's worth the effort! Some say it's the best nom in Da Nang.

Insider Tip

Ask for extra peanuts and chili for an extra kick.

Practical Information

How to Get There: Located on Hoang Dieu Street (ask locals for the exact location).
Opening Hours: Afternoon and evening (hours may vary)
Cost: Budget-friendly (10,000 - 20,000 VND per serving)
Website: null

Getting Around

Da Nang offers several convenient transportation options. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable, making them a good choice for short distances or when traveling with luggage. Motorbikes are a popular option for exploring the city and surrounding areas, offering flexibility and the ability to navigate narrow streets. You can rent a motorbike from numerous shops throughout the city, but be sure to wear a helmet and have a valid driver's license. For a more budget-friendly option, consider using Grab, a ride-hailing app similar to Uber. Grab offers both motorbike and car options, often at lower prices than traditional taxis. Be aware of traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, as Da Nang can experience congestion. Walking is a great way to explore the city center, especially around the Han River and My Khe Beach. Finally, consider renting a car if you plan on exploring areas outside of Da Nang, such as Hoi An or the Hai Van Pass. However, driving in Vietnam can be challenging, so it's important to be comfortable with navigating local traffic conditions.

Transportation Tips:

  • Check local transport apps for real-time updates
  • Consider day passes for multiple journeys
  • Download offline maps before exploring
  • Ask locals for the best routes and shortcuts

Where to Stay

Da Nang offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. My Khe Beach is a popular area for tourists, with numerous hotels and resorts offering stunning ocean views. This area is ideal for those who want to be close to the beach and enjoy water activities. The city center is another great option, with a mix of budget-friendly guesthouses, boutique hotels, and larger international chains. Staying in the city center provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions such as the Dragon Bridge and Han Market. For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at one of the upscale resorts located along the coast. These resorts offer a range of amenities, including private beaches, swimming pools, and spa services. If you're looking for a more local experience, consider staying in a homestay or guesthouse in a residential area. This can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet friendly locals. No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season. Consider reading reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality and location of different accommodations.

Accommodation Tips:

  • Book early for better rates and availability
  • Consider location vs price when choosing areas
  • Check transport links to major attractions
  • Read recent reviews for the most current information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Da Nang is generally from March to May or September to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with relatively low humidity. This makes it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the beaches. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The rainy season in Da Nang typically runs from September to December. During this time, the city can experience heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. While it's still possible to visit during the rainy season, be prepared for unpredictable weather and potential disruptions to your travel plans. The winter months (December to February) are relatively mild, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). However, the sea can be rough during this time, making it less ideal for swimming. Ultimately, the best time to visit Da Nang depends on your preferences and tolerance for heat and humidity. If you're looking for sunny weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (March-May or September-October).

Seasonal Highlights:

  • Check local events and festivals
  • Consider weather patterns for outdoor activities
  • Book accommodations early during peak seasons
  • Off-season visits often offer better value

Suggested Itinerary

Here's a suggested 3-day itinerary for exploring Da Nang: **Day 1:** Start your day with a visit to My Khe Beach for a morning swim or sunbathing session. In the afternoon, explore the Marble Mountains, climbing to the top for panoramic views. In the evening, witness the Dragon Bridge fire and water show. **Day 2:** Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills, riding the cable car and exploring the French Village and Golden Bridge. Enjoy the amusement park and the stunning mountain views. Alternatively, if you're not keen on theme parks, spend the day exploring the Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain), visiting Linh Ung Pagoda and enjoying the scenic coastal roads. **Day 3:** Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture to learn about the history of the Cham civilization. Explore Han Market for some souvenir shopping and local street food. In the afternoon, take a motorbike ride along the Hai Van Pass for breathtaking views of the coastline. Consider ending your trip with a relaxing evening at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and the sunset.

Itinerary Tips:

  • Book major attractions and dining reservations in advance
  • Allow flexibility for spontaneous discoveries
  • Keep backup indoor activities for weather changes
  • Mix popular sights with local neighborhood exploration

When is the best time to visit Da Nang?

The best time to visit Da Nang is The best time to visit Da Nang is generally from March to May or September to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with relatively low humidity. This makes it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the beaches. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The rainy season in Da Nang typically runs from September to December. During this time, the city can experience heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. While it's still possible to visit during the rainy season, be prepared for unpredictable weather and potential disruptions to your travel plans. The winter months (December to February) are relatively mild, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). However, the sea can be rough during this time, making it less ideal for swimming. Ultimately, the best time to visit Da Nang depends on your preferences and tolerance for heat and humidity. If you're looking for sunny weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (March-May or September-October).. This period offers ideal weather conditions and optimal experiences for most attractions and activities.

How many days should I spend in Da Nang?

We recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Da Nang to see the main attractions. For a more comprehensive experience, 5-7 days allows you to explore hidden gems and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

What are the must-see attractions in Da Nang?

The top attractions include Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach. These represent the essence of Da Nang and should not be missed during your visit.

Is Da Nang suitable for budget travelers?

Yes, Da Nang offers options for budget travelers. Many attractions are free or low-cost, and there are affordable dining and accommodation options available throughout the city.

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