An A-Z guide for first-time visitors to Da Nang, Vietnam

In the Central region of Vietnam, Da Nang is regarded as the epitome of urban bustle. You can enjoy a variety of unique cuisines and have a lot of exciting tourism experiences when you visit this city.

Vietnam's Da Nang draws tourists with its many striking architectural creations.

Travel enthusiasts consistently rank Da Nang, Vietnam, as one of their top destinations. It is well-known for its breathtaking scenery, but its welcoming residents and mouthwatering specialties also draw tourists. Read this article to find the answers you need if you are planning a trip to Da Nang but are unsure about where to go, what to eat, or where to stay.

1. About Da Nang in Vietnam

The following details pertain to Da Nang, which is the most livable city in Vietnam:

1.1. Da Nang's location

Situated in the South Central region, approximately 961 kilometers south of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang boasts a variety of topographical features, such as plains, beaches, and mountains, which combine to create many captivating landscapes. Specifically, Hue, Hoi An, and My Son are the three world cultural heritages that encircle it.

In Vietnam's Central Highlands, Da Nang is a significant hub for science, technology, education, culture, and the economy. In addition to being a well-known tourist destination, it serves as a vital transportation route connecting Vietnam's north and south and as a gateway to the country's central, southern, and northern provinces.

The biggest city in Vietnam's central region is Da Nang (Source: Collected).

1.2. Da Nang's weather

The tropical monsoon climate in Vietnam influences Da Nang, which experiences high temperatures with little variation. This city experiences two distinct seasons: the rainy season, which lasts from August to December, and the dry season, which lasts from January to July.

The average yearly temperature in Da Nang is about 25 degrees Celsius. The highest temperatures occur in June, July, and August, when average temperatures range from 28 to 30 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, December, January, and February have the lowest temperatures, which range from 18 to 23 degrees Celsius.

The average annual air humidity is 83.4%, with the highest recorded in October (approximately 85.67–87.67%) and the lowest in June and July (approximately 76.67–77.33%). There are occasional cold spells, but they are not frequent.

Like other provinces in the Central region, Da Nang also has the dry season and the rainy season each year (Source: Collected)

2. Top 9 famous Da Nang attractions for your sightseeing

Both the inner city and the suburbs of Da Nang, Vietnam, are home to a number of tourist attractions. The ten well-known locations listed below are a must-see if you have the chance to visit this city:

2.1. Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula is an ancient woodland characterized by remarkable scenery and a wide range of ecosystems. The chance to learn about the varied plant and animal life found in the Son Tra Nature Reserve captivates many visitors to the peninsula. Among the many bird species, trees, and flowers that can be found there are the remarkable red-shanked douc langurs, which are of particular interest.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Da Nang city's breathtaking panoramas from the top of the Son Tra Peninsula. In addition, they can enjoy the cool, refreshing sea breezes and the expansive, verdant surroundings.

The Son Tra Peninsula's expansive vista (Source: Collected)

2.2. Linh Ung Pagoda

Linh Ung Pagoda is a very famous spiritual tourist destination in Da Nang in Vietnam. Along with the splendor of the picturesque countryside, this location is well known for its revered spiritual culture. By coming here, you can find inner peace and total relaxation.

At the moment, Da Nang is home to three Linh Ung Pagodas: But Beach (Son Tra Peninsula), Ba Na (Chua Mountain), and Ngu Hanh Son. You can pick which of them to visit based on your itinerary.

Linh Ung Pagoda (Source: Collected)

2.3. Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains, or Ngu Hanh Son, is the common name of a landscape consisting of 5 limestone mountains: Kim Son, Moc Son, Thuy Son, Hoa Son and Tho Son in the middle of the coastal sands in Da Nang. Since Thuy Son is the biggest, tallest, and most stunning of them all, it has gained popularity as a destination for travelers looking to test their mettle against the elements.

The breathtaking natural landscape of the entire Marble Mountains, the distant city, and the picturesque Da Nang beaches will astound you once you reach the summit of Thuy Son. Your trip will have greater significance than before thanks to all of these.

Marble Mountains (Source: Collected)

2.4. Love Bridge

The 68-meter-long, arc-shaped Love Bridge is situated on the banks of the Han River. It is regarded as one of the most well-known attractions in Da Nang that no couple should miss.

In order to signify their love, couples typically bring their own padlocks or purchase them from the surrounding vendors and lock them onto the bridge. The couples enjoy their romantic moments together after the padlocks are hung up and the keys are thrown away.

Love Bridge at night (Source: Collected)

2.5. Non Nuoc Beach

Non Nuoc Beach is 8 kilometers away from the city center to the Southeast. The beach, which is five kilometers long and winds like peach-colored silk, is located at the base of the Marble Mountains. You can see shoals of white anchovies floating if you stand on the shore because the water is so clear. You should try some of the following when visiting Non Nuoc Beach: sailing, surfing, paragliding, reef sighting, snorkeling, and more.

Non Nuoc, a beloved Da Nang beach (Source: Collected)

2.6. Dragon Bridge 

Dragon Bridge has become a symbol of Da Nang in Vietnam that no tourists should miss out on. It is considered the bridge with the most unique architecture in Vietnam, which resembles a dragon of the Ly Dynasty reaching out to the sea. It is also the quickest route between the city's main streets and Da Nang International Airport.

Dragon Bridge is not only a significant city bridge but also one of Da Nang City's most recognizable architectural creations. Dragon Bridge is best viewed at night, when its 15,000 attached LED lights are illuminated and produce glistening color effects.

Dragon Bridge is one of the symbols of Da Nang in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.7. My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is considered one of the most charming beaches on the planet that everyone should visit at least once in their life. It is the ideal location for your vacation at any time of year because of its long stretches of fine white sand, clear blue sea, gentle waves, and warm water.

My Khe Beach, which is roughly 900 meters long, is separated into three sections. Its coastline, which extends from the base of the Son Tra Peninsula to Ngu Hanh Son, is roughly 10 kilometers long.

This beach in Da Nang draws a lot of visitors every year because of its stunning beauty. (Source: Collected)

2.8. Hai Van Pass

Located along the length of Hai Van Mountain, Hai Van Pass is the boundary between the two provinces: Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang. In particular, it is 20 kilometers from Da Nang City and 80 kilometers from Hue City. It is roughly 20 kilometers long and 500 meters above sea level.

Hai Van Pass is regarded as one of the world's most exquisite passes. Many adventurers who are passionate about exploring find this place challenging due to its magnificent and majestic beauty.

2.9. Da Nang Cathedral

Da Nang Cathedral stands out with its classical Gothic architecture and outstanding pink color. Every year, a significant number of both domestic and foreign tourists visit this tourist destination. As a result, it is now a must-see destination for your tour of Da Nang.

In addition to the name Da Nang Cathedral, this place has many other names such as Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Tourane Church, Da Nang Chicken Church, Roman Catholic Diocese of Da Nang,...

The pink color contributes to the beauty of the cathedral (Source: Collected)

3. What to eat in Da Nang City? Top 5 must-try specialities

Try the top 5 dishes listed below if you are unsure what to eat when you visit Da Nang, Vietnam:

• Bun mam: The special feature that makes the delicious taste of bun mam in Da Nang is the rich seasoning sauce made according to an esoteric recipe. Green veggies, crispy roasted pork, and a dash of hot chili are served alongside this dish. You can also eat it with young jackfruit, boiled pork belly, fermented pork rolls, and pork ears. This traditional Da Nang dish is served at the Bun Mam Ba Vi restaurant, which is situated at 23 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street.
• Nam O fish salad: Nam O Da Nang fish salad is a delicious dish in Da Nang that impresses many tourists thanks to its strange taste. The herring that is caught in the sea near Nam O Fishing Village is used to make the salad. This dish is typically served with raw vegetables, rice paper rolls, and a rich fish sauce, all of which contribute to the salad's mouthwatering flavor. Authentic Nam O fish salad can be found at a number of neighborhood seafood restaurants along the coast, including Cau Doi restaurant (38 Bach Dang Street) and My Hao restaurant (154 Tran Phu Street).

• Pha lau - A dish made from pork and offal: If you are visiting Da Nang, Vietnam for the first time, the best way to experience pho lau is with bread and a rich broth that tastes like coconut milk. It can be difficult to enjoy this dish if you can not eat offal. You will become devoted to this rich flavor, though, if you can give it a try. It is strongly advised to try Pha Lau at the Am Thuc Xua Va Nay restaurant, which is located at 57 Le Dinh Duong Street, and the Ba Muoi restaurant, which is located at 18 Le Thanh Nghi Street.
• Pork skewers: The dipping sauce is what makes the aromatic flavor of the pork skewers. The pork skewers, which are made with a blend of soy sauce and tapioca starch, are tender and tasty. This dish is typically eaten with rice paper, raw vegetables, cucumbers, and bananas. A well-known restaurant in Da Nang, Ba Duong Pork Skewers (Ba Duong Nem Lui) is well-known for its mouthwatering skewers. It is located at K280/23 Hoang Dieu Street, Hai Chau District.
• Vietnamese bread soup: Vietnamese bread soup is a popular dish that is not difficult to find in other provinces. However, the rich broth made from meat and bones gives the one in Da Nang, Vietnam, a distinct flavor. Additionally, this dish's vermicelli is thicker than those in other areas, making it easy to eat until your stomach is full. For this dish, Banh Canh Ba Tien is a well-known restaurant in Da Nang. It is located at 87/7 Ham Nghi Street.

4. Which places near Da Nang are worth visiting?

4.1. Hoi An

Hoi An Ancient Town, located about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang, is a charming town known for its well-preserved historic architecture. Explore the lantern-lit alleys, stop by the famous Japanese bridge Hoi An, and take in the lively local marketplaces. Do not pass up the chance to sample regional specialties like the traditional Vietnamese noodle dish cao lau. Hoi An is a must-see location close to Da Nang because of its distinctive fusion of cultural influences and its charming riverbank location.

Hoi An Old Town (Source: Collected)

4.2. Hue

Situated around 100 kilometers north of Da Nang, Hue is a city rich in history and culture. During the Nguyen Dynasty, it was the imperial capital of Vietnam, leaving behind a legacy of exquisite palaces, tombs, and pagodas. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hue Imperial City, take a boat ride on Perfume River, and indulge in the city's famous royal cuisine. History buffs should visit Hue, which provides an intriguing look into Vietnam's regal past.

Hue Imperial City (Source: Collected)

4.3. Quang Binh

North of Da Nang, in the province of Quang Binh, are famous cave systems and breathtaking natural scenery. Visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts magnificent caves such as Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave. Adventurers can also explore the world's largest cave, Son Doong Cave, although it requires prior arrangement and specialized tours.

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh (Source: Collected)

4.4. Da Lat

Da Lat, also called the "City of Eternal Spring," has lovely flower gardens, charming scenery, and a cool, pleasant climate. Visit the iconic Xuan Huong Lake, explore the vibrant Dalat Market, and enjoy the breathtaking views from Lang Biang Mountain. Da Lat is a distinctive and romantic escape from Da Nang, known for its coffee plantations, fresh produce, and flowers.

Da Lat, the city of love (Source: Collected)

5. More useful tips for your trip to Da Nang

Vinpearl has some advice to help you get the most out of your next trip to Da Nang, Vietnam:

5.1. How to get to Da Nang in Vietnam?

For your trip to Da Nang, there are numerous modes of transportation that are appropriate. Depending on your location, you can select from a variety of vehicles, including:

• By plane: The most popular way chosen by many tourists is traveling to Da Nang by plane. It saves time and is convenient. To save more money for the trip, you should purchase your tickets at least one to two months in advance if you decide to go this route.
• By coach: Currently, there are many bus companies that go from North to South to serve the travel needs of tourists. If you are looking for a cheap trip, you can go by coach, which costs between 250,000 and 500,000 VND.
• By train: Traveling by train can give you a chance to enjoy the scenery during the trip. Because you can get off at Hue Station and continue on to Da Nang, the train is a very sensible option, especially if your itinerary includes a visit to Hue.

Convenient transportation options like taxis and Grab are available to explore the famous landmarks in Da Nang's inner city. XANH SM Taxi is the most environmentally friendly of these options.

XANH SM Taxi

VinFast electric vehicles were used exclusively by XANH SM Taxi, Vietnam's first electric taxi company. In addition to receiving first-rate service, passengers who use XANH SM taxi contribute to the company's efforts to lower vehicle emissions and protect the environment. Standard and luxury taxi services, as well as airport taxis with alluring promotions, are offered by XANH SM. There are four simple ways for customers to book a taxi:

(1) Call the national hotline 1900 2088
(2) Wave on the street like a traditional taxi
(3) Book on the Taxi Xanh SM app. Click HERE to download the app
(4) Use the beVinFast service on the multi-service customer platform BE to book Xanh SM taxi

5.2. When is the best time to visit Da Nang in Vietnam?

You can discover the beauty of Da Nang in every season. In particular, the weather is mostly sunny during the dry season, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, Da Nang hosts a number of appealing festivals during this time, including fireworks festivals. As a result, the ideal time to visit Da Nang, Vietnam, is during the dry season.

Traveling to Da Nang during the rainy season will give you a unique experience. During this time, it will be hilarious to watch the rain pour while holding an umbrella. There are fewer tourists than during the dry season because it is not the busiest time of year. You can also save a lot of money because room rates and many entertainment service fees are reduced.

The ideal time to visit Da Nang, Vietnam, is during the dry season, which runs from January to September.

5.3. What should you prepare for the trip to Da Nang in Vietnam?

The following six major groups of items can be used to expedite preparation and ensure that no crucial item is overlooked:

• Papers: Don’t forget to bring your identity card and airplane tickets or train tickets.
• Money: Using an ATM card will help ensure safety during your travel. However, you should also pack a small amount of cash in case you need to pay for services, shopping, meals, etc.
• Clothing: If you intend to come to Da Nang in the summer, you should bring loose and airy clothes such as maxi dresses or bikinis to relax on the beach. Additionally, in case the weather changes, you should pack some sunblocking items like hats, sunglasses, umbrellas, etc.
• Medical supplies: It is essential to prepare medicine for some common conditions such as flu, coughing, gastrointestinal conditions and motion sickness.
• Cosmetics: You can use small travel bottles to carry facial cleanser, makeup remover, sunscreen, lotion, shampoo.,.. to free up both space and weight in your luggage.
• Technology accessories: Your Da Nang travel certainly cannot do without a mobile phone, a charger, a headset or a camera to record memorable moments.

Because it gives them the opportunity to take in countless breathtaking scenery and sample a variety of unusual cuisine, Da Nang, Vietnam, is a popular destination for tourists. The full set of recommendations for your city tour are provided above. I hope it will help you on your next trip to Da Nang with your loved ones, friends, or family.

Planning your itinerary for Da Nang and nearby destinations like Hoi An Ancient Town is essential for a well-rounded experience. When considering your travel options, keep in mind the comfort offered by Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, an excellent choice for accommodation. 

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