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What to do in Danang? This dynamic and fascinating city in Vietnam,
One of Vietnam’s largest coastal cities, it is a must-see destination for travelers seeking culture, nature, and entertainment. Located in the center of the country, this cosmopolitan city is not only a strategic hub for exploring Vietnam, but also offers numerous tourist attractions and a vibrant atmosphere that will delight all types of visitors.
With its magnificent beaches, towering mountains, and historic monuments, Da Nang is a city where history meets modernity. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a cultural enthusiast, Da Nang will charm you. Here’s a guide to the best activities and places to discover during your visit to Da Nang.
Danang's must-sees: What to see and do?
Da Nang Beaches: Sun and Fine Sand
Da Nang’s beaches are among the most beautiful in Vietnam, offering stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports. Among the most popular beaches is My Khe Beach , often nicknamed “America’s Beach” by American soldiers during the Vietnam War. With its moderate waves, it is ideal for swimming, surfing, and relaxing in the sun.
Non Nuoc Beach , meanwhile, is renowned for its tranquility and natural beauty, and is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. You can also take a stroll along the seafront to enjoy stunning views of the South China Sea.
The Marble Mountains (Marble Mountains)
About 9 km from Da Nang, the Marble Mountains are a spectacular sight not to be missed. Comprised of five marble and limestone mountains, each symbolizing an element (water, wood, fire, earth, and metal), they are home to caves, pagodas, and Buddhist temples. You can explore these mountains by hiking steep trails or take an elevator for breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
The site is also known for its Buddhist statues and magnificent marble sculptures made by local artisans. Don’t miss the Linh Ung Pagoda , one of the largest and most beautiful pagodas in Vietnam, which offers a spectacular panoramic view.
Le Pont d’Or (Golden Bridge)
The Golden Bridge , located in Ba Na Hills , is one of Da Nang’s most famous landmarks. Opened in 2018, this unique bridge is supported by giant bronze hands, creating an impressive illusion. It rises 1,400 meters above sea level, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
To get there, you’ll need to take a spectacular cable car that holds a world record for its length. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and explore the Ba Na Hills theme park , which includes rides, gardens, and a reconstructed French village.
The Cham Museum
The Cham Museum is another must-see in Da Nang, especially if you’re passionate about history. This museum houses a large collection of sculptures and artifacts from the Champa civilization, which ruled central and southern Vietnam between the 4th and 15th centuries. The museum features stone statues and artifacts that showcase the art, culture, and beliefs of the region’s ancient inhabitants. It’s one of the best places to understand Vietnam’s ancient history and learn more about the Champa dynasty.
The Han River and Roteur Bridge
The Han River runs through the center of Da Nang, and a boat tour on this river is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. In particular, don’t miss the Dragon Bridge , which crosses the Han River and is famous for its dragon-shaped structure. In the evening, the bridge lights up in bright colors and performs a show where it spews smoke and water, attracting tourists and locals alike.
The Han Market
Han Market is one of the largest and busiest in Da Nang. It’s the perfect place to buy souvenirs, local produce, fresh fruit, spices, and textiles. This market offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Da Nang residents. You’ll also find many food stalls serving local specialties such as Bánh Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) and Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese pancakes).
Ba Na Mountain and Linh Ung Pagoda
Ba Na Mountain is one of the most visited places in the region, thanks in part to its cable car that takes you to an altitude of 1,400 meters. At the summit, you’ll find the famous Linh Ung Pagoda , an impressive religious complex with a giant Buddha statue, which is over 70 meters high. This site offers panoramic views of the valley and the sea, and is an important pilgrimage site for the Vietnamese.
Lang Co Village
About 30 km from Da Nang, Lang Co Village is a peaceful escape from the city. It is known for its quiet beaches and picturesque landscapes, with mountains and lagoons in the background. It’s a great place to spend a relaxing day, enjoying fresh seafood and natural scenery.
The Pagodas and Temples of Da Nang
Besides Linh Ung Pagoda, Da Nang has several other pagodas and temples to visit, such as Phap Lam Pagoda , a quiet and welcoming Buddhist prayer site, or Ba Na Mountain Temple , which is also a place of meditation and tranquility. These religious sites offer a fascinating insight into Vietnamese spirituality.
The surrounding mountains and landscapes
If you enjoy hiking and nature, Da Nang offers a variety of hikes in the surrounding mountains. The Son Tra Mountains offer great opportunities to explore the rainforest, observe local wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
Getting around Danang
Getting around Da Nang is relatively easy thanks to its modern infrastructure and varied transportation options. Whether you’re on a short vacation or a longer trip, here are some tips to help you navigate this vibrant city comfortably.
By taxi or Grab : Taxis are plentiful in Da Nang, and apps like Grab (similar to Uber) are also very popular. These make it easy to book a reasonably priced ride and are ideal for quick trips around town.
By motorcycle taxi : If you’re looking for a more local experience, motorcycle taxis are a quick and affordable option for navigating narrow streets or avoiding traffic. They’re easily found throughout the city.
Motorbike or scooter rental : If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore Da Nang at your own pace, renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular option. You’ll find plenty of rental shops in the city center. This will allow you to explore the surrounding area independently while enjoying the scenery.
Bus : Da Nang has a public bus network, but it can be a little more complicated for foreign visitors to use, as information is not always available in English. However, it’s a budget-friendly option for exploring the city if you’re comfortable with the schedules and stops.
Bicycles : Increasingly popular among tourists, renting a bicycle is a pleasant and eco-friendly way to get around Da Nang. Some agencies even offer guided bike tours of the city and its surrounding areas, an ideal option for those who want to explore the scenery while staying active.
Excursions around Da Nang: Discovering the neighboring treasures
Da Nang is not only a fascinating destination in itself, but it also makes an ideal starting point for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Vietnam’s central region. Here are some popular excursions around Da Nang:
Hoi An (30-40 minutes by car)
Just 30 km from Da Nang, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its picturesque streets, well-preserved architecture, and romantic atmosphere. You can easily spend a day or half a day here exploring its temples, ancient houses, and tasting local cuisine, such as the famous Cao Lau .
Ba Na Mountain (45 minutes by car)
Located an hour from Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is an ideal destination for a day trip. Enjoy impressive panoramic views, explore the mountains, and visit the famous Golden Bridge , supported by giant hands. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and those who enjoy spectacular scenery.
Lang Co Beach (1 hour by car)
About an hour from Da Nang, Lang Co is a quiet beach renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for a relaxing getaway, you can spend a day relaxing by the water or exploring the lagoons and surrounding nature.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (3-4 hours by car)
If you have a little more time, Phong Nha National Park is a great day trip from Da Nang. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its gigantic caves, including Son Doong Cave , the largest cave in the world. It’s a perfect place for nature, trekking, and adventure lovers.
My Son site (1h30 by car)
About 70 km from Da Nang, My Son is an ancient Champa religious complex dating back to the 4th century. This historic site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important in Vietnam, offering a fascinating insight into the Champa civilization, its art, and traditions.
Gastronomy in Da Nang: The must-try dishes
Da Nang is a true paradise for foodies, with a rich and varied local Vietnamese cuisine. During your stay, you can’t miss out on sampling the regional specialties that make the city famous. Here are some must-try dishes:
Bánh Xèo : This typical regional dish is a crispy Vietnamese pancake filled with meat, shrimp, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. Accompanied by vegetables, this specialty is often served with a sweet and savory nuoc cham sauce.
My Quang : This is a rice noodle dish originating from Da Nang. The noodles are served with a light broth, often accompanied by meat (chicken, pork, or shrimp), fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and peanuts.
Bánh Mi : The famous Vietnamese sandwich is a true institution in Da Nang. Take a crusty baguette, fill it with local meats, vegetables, herbs, and spices, and you have a quick and delicious meal.
Chè : For dessert, don’t miss Chè , a sweet mixture made with beans, coconut, tapioca pearls, and fresh fruit. This is a popular sweet treat throughout Vietnam, especially refreshing on hot days.
Conclusion
Da Nang is a destination that offers much more than beautiful beaches. It’s a vibrant city full of history and culture, yet it’s also the perfect base for exploring the central region of Vietnam. Whether you’re looking for nature, adventure, relaxation, or culinary discoveries, Da Nang will meet your expectations. Thanks to its proximity to iconic sites like Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, and My Son, you can easily expand your exploration of this magnificent Vietnamese region.
