Stepping off the plane, I felt the warm, humid air of Da Nang for the first time back in 2018. As the first city I called home after leaving the USA, Da Nang quickly captured my heart. This vibrant city, home to just over 1.2 million people, is gracefully divided by the Han River, offering a unique blend of bustling city life and serene beachside tranquility. What makes Da Nang truly special is the incredible ease of getting around, allowing you to effortlessly explore its diverse attractions.
While many travelers are initially drawn to Da Nang for its stunning coastline, including the famous My Khe Beach, the city side, particularly the Hai Chau district, holds its own charm. I discovered immense joy in simply exploring Hai Chau, seeking out new independent coffee shops and discovering hidden local eateries. This mix of relaxing on the sand and diving into urban exploration is what makes Da Nang such a dynamic destination for anyone asking “Where To Go In Da Nang?”.
My time here included countless adventures, from navigating the winding roads of Son Tra Peninsula and interacting with the resident wild monkeys – yes, we used to feed them graham crackers, though I don’t recommend that now! – to making the scenic drive over the Hai Van Pass many times. Riding my scooter down to the charming town of Hoi An for a coffee or lunch became a favorite spontaneous day trip. Da Nang serves as a perfect base for exploring the wider Central Vietnam region.
If you’re planning your first visit, understanding the best time to come and how to navigate the city are key. Da Nang offers a wealth of experiences, whether you prefer relaxing by the ocean or delving into cultural and historical sites. Let this guide help you decide where to go and what to do in this fascinating Vietnamese city.
Exploring Da Nang: Essential Experiences
Deciding where to stay is often the first question for visitors. Da Nang offers distinct vibes on either side of the Han River. The beachside provides easy access to the sand and sea, while the city side puts you closer to local life, markets, and urban attractions. Having experienced both, I can say each has its unique advantages. It often comes down to personal preference and what kind of trip you envision.
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There’s a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hotels in the city center. Comparing prices on different booking platforms can often yield great deals, especially during shoulder seasons. No matter where you choose to base yourself, getting between the beach and city is quick and inexpensive thanks to readily available ride-hailing services.
Savor the Coffee Culture
Vietnam is renowned globally as the second-largest coffee producer, and its coffee culture is an unmissable part of the experience when deciding where to go in Da Nang. Even if you’re not a huge coffee drinker, trying the local variations is a must-do activity. The country excels not only in traditional black and white coffee but also in unique specialty drinks.
Iced peanut coffee and hot egg coffee from NAM House Cafe in Da Nang, Vietnam.
You’ll find delightful local creations such as creamy egg coffee, rich peanut coffee, intriguing salted coffee, and refreshing coconut coffee. I spent countless hours seeking out and enjoying coffee at numerous places across Da Nang. While cafes near tourist hubs like the An Thuong area often cater to international tastes, venturing into the city side reveals more artisanal spots.
Beyond the independent cafes, you’ll also find popular Vietnamese coffee chains. These are reliable for a quick, standard coffee like an Americano or black coffee and often offer more spacious and comfortable seating, ideal for catching up on emails or planning your day’s exploration. However, for the unique specialty drinks, seek out the local cafes.
Visit the Iconic Lady Buddha and Linh Ung Pagoda
One of the most striking landmarks visible from the coastline is the magnificent white statue of Lady Buddha situated on the Son Tra Peninsula. She stands as a serene guardian overlooking the sea and the city. Visiting the Linh Ung Pagoda complex where the statue resides is a peaceful and culturally enriching experience when considering where to go in Da Nang.
Pink flowers and a staircase leading to Lady Buddha in Da Nang, Vietnam.
The grounds surrounding the Lady Buddha statue are beautifully maintained and offer breathtaking panoramic views back towards the city of Da Nang and the vast ocean horizon. It’s a place designed for quiet contemplation and leisurely exploration. I always find myself spending at least an hour here, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, enjoying the sea breeze, and admiring the intricate architecture of the pagoda.
Accessing this site is both easy and free, making it a highly recommended spot for anyone exploring where to go in Da Nang. A short and affordable ride using a ride-hailing app will get you from most parts of the city or beachside to Lady Buddha in under 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Encounter Wildlife on Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
The Son Tra Peninsula, often affectionately called Monkey Mountain by expats and locals alike, is home to a fascinating population of wild monkeys. My experiences here have ranged from amusing sightings to moments requiring a bit of caution. It’s crucial to remember these are wild animals and should be respected as such. They are opportunistic and might try to grab unsecured items like phones or snacks if you get too close.
Seeing the wild monkeys is a unique experience on Son Tra Peninsula, part of where to go in Da Nang.
While you might spot a few monkeys on the fringes of the Linh Ung Pagoda grounds, seeing more of them often requires venturing further onto the peninsula. The main road, Hoang Sa Road, winds its way north along the coast, past Lady Buddha, and continues towards the luxurious InterContinental Danang Resort. This road offers a remarkably scenic ride.
Explore viewpoints and scenic roads on Son Tra Peninsula for great views and potential monkey sightings.
Renting a scooter is a fantastic way to explore the peninsula at your own pace, pulling over at various viewpoints scattered along the route. The views back towards the city, the coastline, and the mountainous terrain itself are truly spectacular, offering a different perspective on where to go in Da Nang.
Coastal Charm and Riverside Views
Da Nang’s connection to water, both the ocean and the Han River, defines much of its appeal. The coastline offers miles of sandy beaches perfect for relaxation, while the riverfront provides vibrant urban scenes and iconic bridge views. Exploring these areas is essential to experiencing the full scope of where to go in Da Nang.
Relax and Stroll Along My Khe Beach
My Khe Beach stands out as the most popular and accessible beach in Da Nang, stretching for kilometers with a well-maintained paved path running parallel to the sand. This path is ideal for leisurely evening strolls or morning jogs, allowing you to enjoy the ocean air and views at any time of day. If you’re trying to decide where to go in Da Nang for beach relaxation, My Khe is a top contender.
My Khe Beach in the afternoon.
During the day, the beach is relatively calm, primarily populated by travelers swimming or lounging. As evening approaches, the atmosphere changes, becoming a hub of local activity as Vietnamese families and individuals come out to exercise, swim, and socialize. Designated swimming areas are available, along with options to rent lounge chairs and find beachside vendors selling refreshments.
Staying near My Khe Beach is incredibly convenient, with numerous hotels situated directly across the street. This allows for easy access to the beach throughout your stay. While My Khe is the most famous, Da Nang has other noteworthy beaches. Non Nuoc Beach to the south is quieter and more secluded but less convenient for accessing other city attractions. East Sea Park, north of My Khe, also offers a pleasant beach area with a more local feel.
Admire the Famous Dragon Bridge
The Dragon Bridge is arguably the most iconic of the five main bridges spanning the Han River in Da Nang, connecting the beachside and city side. Its striking design, resembling a golden dragon, makes it a must-see landmark when exploring where to go in Da Nang.
The Dragon Bridge in Da Nang from a pier in Son Tra.
The dragon’s head faces towards the sea, symbolizing prosperity reaching out to the world, while its tail points inland towards the city center. At night, the bridge illuminates in a vibrant display of changing colors, creating a spectacular light show. The highlight occurs every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM when the dragon breathes fire followed by water, a captivating spectacle that draws large crowds to the riverbanks.
Both sides of the bridge feature elevated sidewalks, making it easy and enjoyable to walk across. On pleasant days, strolling from one side to the other offers excellent vantage points of the Han River, the surrounding cityscape, and views stretching towards the Son Tra Peninsula. It’s a simple yet rewarding activity when visiting Da Nang.
Cross the Historic Nguyen Van Troi Walking Bridge
Just south of the famous Dragon Bridge lies the Nguyen Van Troi Walking Bridge, a charming pedestrian-only bridge with historical significance. Built in 1965 by an American company, it holds the title of the oldest bridge in Da Nang still standing. Including this bridge in your exploration offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
A path through the trees toward the Nguyen Van Troi Walking Bridge in Da Nang, Vietnam.
You can easily access the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge from both the city side (Hai Chau) and the beach side. It’s a pleasant walk and offers lovely views of the river. For a nice exercise route, you can cross this bridge from the beach side into the city, walk north along the picturesque riverside path (Bach Dang Street), continue up to the Dragon Bridge, cross back over, and return to the beach side. This loop allows you to experience two distinct bridges and enjoy the riverfront scenery.
Walking over the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge in Da Nang, Vietnam.
City Exploration and Local Life
Beyond the beaches and iconic landmarks, Da Nang’s city side pulses with local energy, offering insights into daily life, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine. Exploring areas like Hai Chau reveals the authentic character of where to go in Da Nang beyond the typical tourist trail.
Wander Bach Dang and Tran Phu Streets
Bach Dang and Tran Phu streets are parallel arteries running through the heart of Da Nang’s city side (Hai Chau district), offering different but equally interesting experiences. Bach Dang Street is famous for its beautiful riverside promenade along the Han River. This well-maintained path stretches for several kilometers north to south and is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
The riverfront walking path along the Han River on Bach Dang Street in Da Nang.
Walking along Bach Dang provides excellent views of the Son Tra Mountain, the various bridges crossing the Han River, and the bustling city skyline. It’s a refreshing place for a morning walk, an evening stroll, or simply sitting on a bench and watching river life go by.
Just one block west, running parallel, is Tran Phu Street. This street is home to the lively Han Market, a central shopping hub. Visiting Han Market is often more about the experience than serious shopping. Similar to famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find a wide array of goods, from clothing and souvenirs to fresh produce and local snacks. Be prepared to haggle if you decide to purchase something.
Outside Han Market in Da Nang, Vietnam.
Further down Tran Phu Street, you’ll find the distinctive pink Da Nang Cathedral. This active Catholic church is an architectural landmark in the city. The entire length of Tran Phu Street is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels, offering plenty of opportunities to eat, drink, and explore. You can find everything from Western comfort food to highly-rated Vietnamese dining experiences in this area.
The pink Da Nang Cathedral.
Taste Authentic Bun Bo Hue at My An Market
For a truly local culinary adventure when considering where to go in Da Nang, head to My An Market. This bustling local market, located in the beachside area but distinctly catering to residents rather than tourists, offers an authentic slice of Vietnamese life. My first encounter here was initially overwhelming with its vibrant mix of vendors selling everything from clothes and fresh produce to raw fish, juices, and prepared food.
Drinking guava juice and two bowls of bun bo Hue at My An Market, one of the best things to do in Da Nang.
One of my most memorable first meals in Da Nang was a bowl of Bun Bo Hue from a humble stand run by a husband and wife in this market. Years later, they are still there, a testament to the quality and local appeal of their food. Stopping by for a bowl is like visiting old friends.
Eating bun bo Hue inside the My An Market in Da Nang.
The experience of eating at a simple metal table amidst the market’s activity is as much a part of the meal as the delicious, spicy broth of the Bun Bo Hue itself. It’s an incredibly affordable and authentic way to sample one of Central Vietnam’s most famous dishes and a must-do for food lovers exploring where to go in Da Nang for local flavor.
Eating bun bo Hue at a metal table inside My An Market in Da Nang.
Day Trips and Nearby Wonders
Da Nang’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Central Vietnam’s most significant historical and natural sites. These day trips offer enriching experiences that complement your time in the city itself, adding depth to your understanding of where to go in Da Nang and its surroundings.
Hike the Marble Mountains and Explore Am Phu Cave
Located just a short drive south of Da Nang’s beachside are the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each named after one of the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth). This site includes a network of caves, tunnels, and temples. Exploring the Marble Mountains and the nearby Am Phu Cave is a popular half-day trip.
A wooden sign in Vietnamese and English, displaying
It’s important to note that navigating the Marble Mountains involves a significant amount of stair climbing, including some relatively steep sections to reach the best viewpoints at the peaks. Am Phu Cave is located at ground level but also requires walking and navigating steps within the cave itself. Separate entrance tickets are required for the mountains and the cave. This site is a fantastic option for active travelers looking for natural beauty and spiritual sites when deciding where to go in Da Nang’s vicinity.
Take a Day Trip to Charming Hoi An
Visiting the ancient town of Hoi An is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Da Nang. Located just 30 to 40 minutes away by road, Hoi An offers a completely different atmosphere. As someone who lived in Da Nang, I often made the short ride down to Hoi An for a change of scenery, whether it was for a meal, coffee, or exploring the areas outside the well-known Old Town. The easiest way to get there is using a ride-hailing app, or you can rent a scooter if you’re comfortable.
A bridge over the Thu Bon River in Hoi An Ancient Town.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lined streets, and tranquil Thu Bon River. While some visitors find the Old Town area quite touristy, there is much more to Hoi An than just this small core. The areas surrounding the Old Town quickly transition into peaceful village scenes, with lush rice fields and quiet roads perfect for walking or cycling.
Tourists walking down a small street in Old Town Hoi An.
Beautiful beaches like An Bang and Cua Dai are also just a short distance (around 10 minutes) from the town center. Exploring the nearby countryside, like the areas around Cam Thanh or the scenic rice paddies north of town, reveals a different side of Hoi An. It’s a highly recommended addition to your itinerary when considering where to go from Da Nang.
Discover the Ancient My Son Sanctuary
Another significant historical site easily accessible from Da Nang is the My Son Sanctuary. This complex of ruined temples was constructed by the Cham people between the 4th and 13th centuries and is recognized as one of Vietnam’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It offers a fascinating glimpse into a lost civilization and its religious practices.
Ruins at the My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam.
My Son Sanctuary is approximately an hour’s drive from both Da Nang and Hoi An, making it a convenient half-day trip. The easiest way to get there independently is by booking a taxi or car through a ride-hailing app. Alternatively, you can join a shared shuttle bus service or book an organized tour which often includes transportation and a guide, providing historical context to the ruins. Plan to spend around two hours slowly walking through the site, admiring the intricate brickwork and learning about the Cham history.
Getting Around and Exploring Further
Part of the appeal of Da Nang is how easy it is to navigate, allowing you to maximize your time exploring where to go. While ride-hailing apps are convenient and affordable, experiencing the city on a motorbike offers unparalleled freedom.
Experience Da Nang by Motorbike
As I’ve mentioned before, riding a motorbike is one of my absolute favorite ways to experience Vietnam. Da Nang is particularly well-suited for motorbiking due to its relatively light traffic compared to cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Renting a scooter provides incredible convenience for getting between the beach and city, and for visiting outlying attractions at your own pace. It also allows you to venture off the main tourist paths and discover hidden gems, gaining a unique perspective on where to go in Da Nang.
Riding a motorbike over the iconic Dragon Bridge in Da Nang.
Scooter rentals are widely available, with daily rates varying depending on the type and age of the bike. Riding to Hoi An is a popular and straightforward route. Another highly recommended scenic ride is along Da Nang Bay to the northwest and up to the famous Hai Van Pass, known for its breathtaking coastal views.
Exploring the Son Tra Peninsula by motorbike allows you to visit Lady Buddha and continue further along the winding roads, enjoying viewpoints and the possibility of seeing monkeys. Da Nang’s five bridges also offer interesting riding experiences. While crossing the Dragon Bridge is a must-do, riding across the northernmost Thuan Phuoc Bridge provides some of the best views of Da Nang Bay and the mouth of the Han River. Just remember to ride cautiously and be aware of local traffic rules.
Da Nang is a city that truly offers something for everyone, blending beautiful beaches with vibrant city life, historical sites, delicious food, and easy access to incredible day trips. From sipping unique Vietnamese coffee and exploring ancient ruins to strolling along the beach and witnessing a fire-breathing dragon bridge, your options for where to go in Da Nang are plentiful and promise a memorable journey.