Da Nang Travel Guide: All you need to know

About Da Nang

The city worth living in, the city of bridges, the city of fireworks – these are the beautiful words people use to describe Da Nang. This city is a dynamic and rapidly developing coastal city in central Vietnam. It is Vietnam’s fourth-largest city and serves as a major hub for tourism, trade, and transportation. Da Nang have beautiful beaches ,natural wonders and historical landmarks. With friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere

• Location: Da Nang is a coastal city located in central Vietnam
• Climate: the wet season (September to February) and the dry season (March to August). Temperatures typically range from 18°C to 34°C (64°F to 93°F), making it an inviting destination year-round
• Best time to visit: February to May for pleasant weather; the dry season runs from February to August.

How to Get to Da Nang

Da Nang is well-connected to both domestic and international destinations, making it accessible for travelers worldwide.

1. By Air:

   • Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is the third busiest airport in Vietnam and handles both domestic and international flights. It has direct connections from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, and Tokyo.
   • Travel Tip: From the airport, the city center is only 15 minutes away by taxi or ride-hailing services like Grab.

2. By Train:

   • Da Nang Railway Station is part of the North-South Reunification Line, which connects the city to other major cities in Vietnam like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The train journey offers beautiful views of the coastline, especially on the Hai Van Pass.

3. By Bus:

   • Long-distance buses run from cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Da Nang. The buses are typically comfortable and reasonably priced.

More about: Transportation In Vietnam

Things to See in Da Nang

Da Nang offers a wide range of attractions, from natural beauty to historical landmarks.

1. My Khe Beach: Voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by Forbes, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports.
   
   
   
2. Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge: Ba Na Hills is a resort located in the mountains west of Da Nang, known for its cool climate and French village. The highlight here is the Golden Bridge, a stunning pedestrian bridge held up by two giant stone hands. The cable car ride up to Ba Na Hills offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests.
   
   
3. Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son): A cluster of five limestone and marble hills with caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries. You can hike to the top for stunning panoramic views.
   
   
   
   Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)
4. Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain): Known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and the giant Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda.
5. Dragon Bridge: A modern, fire-breathing bridge that lights up at night and releases fire and water on weekends.
6. Han Market: A bustling market where you can shop for souvenirs, local goods, and taste authentic street food.
7. Cham Museum: This museum showcases artifacts from the ancient Champa Kingdom, including sculptures and relics.

What to Eat in Da Nang

Da Nang is a food lover’s paradise with a mix of local delicacies and fresh seafood.

1. Mi Quang: A flavorful noodle dish with herbs, peanuts, and your choice of meat or seafood
2. Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with herbs and dipping sauce.
3. Cao Lau: A Hoi An specialty also popular in Da Nang, made with thick noodles, pork, and greens.
4. Seafood: Given its coastal location, Da Nang is renowned for fresh seafood, including grilled squid, shrimp, crabs, and snails.
5. Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo: A fresh dish of pork belly wrapped in rice paper with herbs, vegetables, and a dipping sauce.

        Popular Restaurants and Street Food Spots

• Banh Xeo Ba Duong: Famous for its banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).
• Madame Lan: A beautiful riverside restaurant offering traditional Vietnamese dishes.
• Bep Cuon Da Nang: offering traditional Vietnamese dishes.
• Cua Hang An Uong Mau Dich 1986: like an old house of “Thoi bao cap” (Subsided Economy)
• Con Market: A local market where you can find a variety of street food stalls.

Where to Stay in Da Nang

Da Nang offers a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.

1. Luxury Resorts:
   • InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort: A stunning 5-star resort located on the Son Tra Peninsula.
   • Furama Resort: Located on My Khe Beach, this luxurious beachfront property offers world-class amenities.
2. Mid-Range Hotels:
   • Sanouva Danang Hotel: Centrally located, offering good value and comfortable rooms.
   • Mandila Beach Hotel: A beachfront hotel with modern facilities and stunning sea views.
3. Budget Options:
   • Danang Backpackers Hostel: A popular choice among budget travelers, offering dormitory-style accommodation.
   • Sen Boutique Hotel: A small boutique hotel providing clean rooms at affordable rates.

Day Trips from Da Nang

Da Nang is perfectly situated to explore other nearby destinations, each offering unique cultural and natural experiences.

1. Hoi An Ancient Town (30 km south):
   • Just a 30-minute drive from Da Nang, Hoi An is a well-preserved ancient town and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its lantern-lit streets, old merchant houses, and riverside markets, Hoi An offers a more relaxed pace and rich cultural experiences.
2. Hue (100 km north):
   • Hue, about 2 hours north of Da Nang, was the imperial capital of Vietnam. Its Imperial City is a sprawling complex of temples, palaces, and royal tombs, perfect for history buffs.
3. My Son Sanctuary (40 km southwest):
   • A 1.5-hour drive from Da Nang, My Son Sanctuary is an ancient Cham civilization site, another UNESCO World Heritage location. These Hindu temples, dating back to the 4th century, are nestled in the lush jungle and offer insight into Vietnam’s ancient history.
4. Hai Van Pass (25 km north):
   •  Also known as Đèo Hải Vân is one of the most scenic coastal roads in Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea. Located just outside of Da Nang, this 21-kilometer (13-mile) stretch of winding road connects the cities of Da Nang and Hue, running along the Truong Son mountain range.. Perfect for a motorbike or car trip.
     
     
   Source: Travel Local

With its mix of beaches, culture, and proximity to some of Vietnam's most important historical sites, Da Nang is a versatile travel destination that appeals to all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Da Nang has something for everyone.