Danang

What are the most recommended things to do in Danang?

  • Relax at My Khe Beach, Da Nang’s famous stretch of sand with swimming and water sports.
  • Visit the Marble Mountains — caves, pagodas, viewpoints.
  • Spend a day at Ba Na Hills / Golden Bridge via cable car and enjoy gardens, theme-park attractions.
  • Drive or ride around the Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain) to see Lady Buddha, forest trails, panoramic views.
  • See the Dragon Bridge fire & water show (weekend nights) and enjoy riverfront views.
  • Explore local food via a street food / evening food tour to sample central Vietnam’s specialties.
  • Wander the city’s bridges, local markets, cathedral, and urban districts (Hai Châu).
  • Snorkel or beach-hop to nearby islands (e.g. Cham Islands) as a side trip.

Introducing Da Nang

Da Nang is located in central Vietnam, bordering Hue to the north and Nha Trang to the south. Backed by the Marble Mountains and shielded by the Son Tra Peninsula to the northeast, Da Nang boasts a horseshoe-shaped bay, a wide and deep harbor, and a strategic location, making it a prime natural harbor. Once named "Toulon" by the French, Da Nang holds a crucial military and strategic position in Vietnam. It was from here that the French invaded Vietnam, and it was also from here that the US military landed in 1965, beginning the Vietnam War.

National Geographic named Da Nang one of its 50 must-see destinations, acclaiming it as a perfect blend of modern civilization and nature. Furthermore, Da Nang boasts one of the world's six most famous beaches, making it a rare holiday destination for Europeans and Americans.

Climate and best time to travel

Vietnam is a tropical monsoon region with a wide range of climates. With an average temperature of 28°C (19.3°F), it's a good choice for a relaxing getaway. Sunscreen and an umbrella are essential to prevent sunburn.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Son Tra Peninsula


Located northeast of Da Nang, this island is also known as Monkey Mountain or Camellia Mountain due to its central location in Da Nang Harbor, where a large amount of native forest remains. Vast forests and rare animals are found throughout the island, creating a majestic and poetic natural landscape.

The peninsula is a historical witness to the Franco-Spanish coalition's invasion of Vietnam. At Linh Ung Pagoda, perched on the slopes of Son Tra Mountain, stands a statue of Guanyin, said to be the tallest in Vietnam.


Linggu Bay

Over a thousand species of plants and animals live here, many of which are endangered. The coral reefs and camellia-filled jungles on the shore add a touch of fairyland to the place.


Danang Cathedral

The distinctive pink architecture of the Da Nang Cathedral is a perfect spot for photo ops. The Da Nang Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Da Nang. Inside, you'll find exhibits of Vietnamese labor tools, daily necessities, and weapons and equipment used in the fight against the US military.


Recommended number of days for visiting: 1-2 days


Most Popular FAQs for Danang

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Đà Nẵng is a coastal city in central Vietnam, serving as a major port and gateway to historic sites like Hoi An, Hue, and My Son. It connects several UNESCO heritage sites. It has grown rapidly as a modern city while preserving cultural and natural attractions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Đà Nẵng is in central Vietnam, on the coast facing the South China Sea. You can reach it via Đà Nẵng International Airport, by train or long-distance buses. Within the city, taxis, ride-hailing apps, motorbikes are common. Walking is feasible in the central districts, especially around the riverfront and downtown.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Attraction hours vary — for example, Ba Na Hills operates typically from 08:00 to 22:00 daily. The best months to visit are March to May and September to October, when weather is warm but rainfall is less. Summer (June to August) is also decent for sea conditions. The rainy season (November to February) brings heavier rains.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

For Ba Na Hills, you purchase a one-day ticket (valid for that day) which includes cable car access and attractions inside. Other attractions like the Marble Mountains, museums, may have modest fees (local museums and galleries). Tickets are generally bought on site, though some tours (theme-park or cable car combos) may offer online booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For Ba Na Hills especially during peak season or holidays, booking in advance is wise to secure cable car slots. For most other sites in Đà Nẵng, walk-in is acceptable unless a special event or limited capacity.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To see Đà Nẵng’s main highlights, plus a side trip to Ba Na, 2 to 3 full days is a good amount. If you also want to explore nearby Hoi An, Hue, or islands, 4–5 days is better.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge
  • Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)
  • Son Tra Peninsula / Lady Buddha
  • Dragon Bridge (especially fire/water show)
  • My Khe Beach and other coastal stretches
  • Local museums and galleries (Da Nang Museum, Cham Sculpture Museum)
  • City streets, riverside walks, markets, food tours

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes — city tours, Ba Na tours, Marble Mountains tours are offered in English. Many tour operators include guides; audio guides may be available in museums or selected attractions but are less common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills (spectacular architecture and mountain / mist backdrops)
  • From Marble Mountains overlooking Đà Nẵng and coast
  • On the road or trails along Son Tra, for city & sea panoramas
  • Dragon Bridge at night, especially during fire show
  • Beachfront sunrise / sunset along My Khe or other coastal stretches

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Sample 3-day itinerary: Day 1: Relax at My Khe beach, evening walk along Dragon Bridge & riverside Day 2: Marble Mountains morning, Son Tra Peninsula afternoon Day 3: Full day to Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge, cable car, gardens) You can reorder based on weather or your base location.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes — Dragon Bridge fire/water shows (weekends), evening strolls along river, night markets, and illuminated bridges. Also, night opening of theme parks or cable car attractions in Ba Na occasionally.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak season (Mar–May, summer) sees more tourists. Early morning at popular sites, weekdays, or off-peak months see fewer crowds. Peripheral attractions like Son Tra or beaches may be less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Major attractions (Ba Na, Marble Mountains) have restrooms, cafés, shops, visitor services. In the city and along beaches, many cafés, restaurants, shops, convenience stores, etc. In remote trails or viewpoints, expect more basic facilities or bring water.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Some sites have stairs or uneven paths (Marble Mountains, trails on Son Tra). Cable cars (Ba Na) help with access. In general, for elderly or limited mobility, choose flatter routes or attractions with accessible infrastructure; not all viewpoints or caves may be accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Vietnamese đồng) is widely used, especially in markets, small cafés, local vendors. In larger attractions, hotels, or major services, cards and mobile payments (VNPay, credit cards) are often accepted. Always carry some cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Đà Nẵng has a vibrant food scene: beachfront cafés, seafood restaurants, central Vietnamese cuisine spots, riverside dining. Local guide pages highlight many options. Also artisan shops, craft cafes in urban neighborhoods.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many Vietnamese restaurants offer vegetarian dishes (tofu, vegetable stir-fries, noodle soups). Halal-specific restaurants are fewer, but in larger urban areas you can find halal or seafood-only places. Asking locally helps.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

The city has a wide range: beachfront resorts, mid-range hotels, boutique lodges, guesthouses. Many accommodations cluster near the coastline, around the Han River, or in central districts for easy access to attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Hoi An Ancient Town is close and often combined in itinerary. Hue and the Hai Van Pass are accessible via day or multi-day trips. The Cham Islands (via boat), My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO) are also options.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — in markets like Han Market, along tourist streets and in museums, you’ll find ceramics, lanterns, coffee, lacquerware, local crafts, textiles, art pieces.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

You can depart by train or bus to destinations north or south (Hue, Ninh Binh, Ho Chi Minh City). There are also flights from Đà Nẵng to other Vietnamese cities. For nearby spots like Hoi An or the Mountains, motorbike or car transfers are common.