Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you kindly choose to book via my links.
Da Nang is an area of rich culture, history, beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes. From its white sands and tranquil waters to the Golden Bridge, there’s so much to see and do in Da Nang.
When a friend recently asked me which places they should visit on their trip to Vietnam, Da Nang was the first that came to mind. In fact, it wasn’t just my favourite place to visit in Vietnam but I’d go as far as to say it was in my top five destinations in Southeast Asia.
Situated in central Vietnam, this beautiful coastal city has a really chilled vibe with plenty of cool places to eat and drink. Known for its sandy beaches, pagodas and caves, Da Nang is home to the very famous Marble Mountains and iconic Bà Nà hills.
Getting to Da Nang
There are a few different options when it comes to travelling to Da Nang. There is an international airport with plenty of connections from around the world.
However if you are planning to visit this part of the world I’d strongly recommend having it as part of a larger Vietnam itinerary. If you do decide to make it part of a much bigger adventure then you can get the sleeper train from Hanoi which takes around 16 hours.
Coaches are also a very cost effective way to get to Da Nang. you can see all of the available options for all modes of transport on 12Go.
Getting around Da Nang Beach
Da Nang is a relatively small city and many places are walkable. Walking along the coast is definitely a more picturesque option but for those longer journeys, taxi’s are inexpensive.
Grab is the most popular ride app and it takes away the hassle of having to pay with cash. Private taxis are also easy to get, just make sure you agree the fare with the driver beforehand unless they have a meter.
Scooters are always available to rent in Vietnam along with push bikes but be extremely careful as traffic doesn’t stop for anyone out here, so be vigilant!
Where to stay in Da Nang Vietnam
While travelling throughout Vietnam, I found Booking.com a reliable and easy option for booking hotels. Da Nang is very much a strip-like location, with plenty of hotels scattered along the beach front.
I stayed in a beautiful hotel called Tashi Ocean Hotel & Apartments Da Nang which was exceptionally good value with prices starting from just £17 per night. This boutique aparthotel is less than five minutes’ walk from the beach, with a charming rooftop pool and gym with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding city.
Book Tashi Ocean Hotel & Apartments Da Nang
Things to do in Da Nang Vietnam
Go to the beach
Da Nang’s beach is absolutely stunning with beautiful white sand and tranquil blue water. The front is long with plenty of places to sit, chill and have a drink.
A good tip is to head to the bar Mân Thái Beach – Chợ Cá Gỗ which has some great bean bags where you can sip on a fresh coconut and watch the world go by.
Da Nang’s beach is also great for a lovely stroll. Watch the fisherman pull in their nets or admire the bright light displays at night amongst the bars and lounges.
Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills
The Golden Bridge is one of Vietnam’s most iconic tourist destinations and is an absolute must-see. It’s situated about 30 to 40 minutes outside of Da Nang and you can book a day tour.
A return taxi costs around £25. Entry to the Golden Bridge is a little bit on the pricey side at approximately £30 but is definitely worth it.
The cable car to the top is spectacular as you can see the surrounding mountains with the most beautiful cloud inversions. The bridge itself can be a little bit on the busy side, but you get amazing panoramic views.
There’s also the giant Buddha and some peaceful gardens to walk around with an iced coffee or a coconut.
Trạm dừng chân Chùa Linh Ứng (Lady Buddha & Giant Pagoda)
Overlooking Da Nang beach is the magnificent Lady Buddha. Situated next to a giant pagoda and surrounded by beautiful gardens, this is definitely worth a closer look.
There are a few temples to look inside, including the one at the base of the Lady Buddha. The views of the beach and Da Nang’s cityscape are magnificent.
I was lucky enough to see monkeys, too, which were super cute.
Please be respectful when visiting temples and places of worship. Remember to cover your knees, shoulders and remove footwear. I also take off my hat.
Marble Mountain
Surrounded by marble, Da Nang is where many statues are made. Marble Mountain has many beautiful statues and shrines hidden within its caves which is truly magical and you can take a guided day tour here.
There’s also a pagoda, temples, along with awesome views of the beach and sea.
There are many steps at Marble Mountain and local vendors will try to offer to take your pack while you walk up. It goes without saying not to do this and if you are on a changeover day to ask your hotel to hold your pack for the day.
Hoi An
About 50 minutes up the road from Da Nang, Hoi An is a beautiful ancient town which is exceptionally well preserved. The southeast Asian trading port dates back to the 15th century and it’s home to all forms of custom textiles and tailoring.
It’s also a great place to watch the sunset.
Dragon Bridge
Dragon Bridge is the world’s largest dragon-shaped bridge. It crosses the Han River and is known for its fire and water performances.
If you’re fortunate to visit on the weekend, Da Nang’s famous Dragon Bridge lights up which is an amazing sight.
Restaurants in Da Nang
Out of all of Vietnam I found Da Nang to have the best food options. There is plenty to choose from and a great offering for vegans.
Roots Plant Based Cafe
Well if you like your smoothie bowls then Roots Plant Based Cafe is definitely the place to be. With a wide range of both sweet and savory options, cold pressed juices and super smoothies, this is perfect for the healthy conscious.
Their balcony overlooks a quiet street that is just around the corner from the beach.
iVegan Super Shop
iVegan Super Shop aims to merge all aspects of modern life in an eco-friendly environment “freeing your mind and feeding your soul.” It is a cool Co-working space that serves great food and coffee with a shop too.
Chickpea Eatery
The food at Chickpea Eatery was probably some of the best and most flavoursome I had in Vietnam. Founded by Tu Mai and her mum (who cooked for us), they have a new take on classic vegan cuisine. You can also take a cooking class here.
It was so beautiful to be served food in someone’s home. They also run cooking classes so when I return, I’ll definitely be giving them a go.
Da Nang Vegetarian Bistro 2 (Đà Nẵng Cơm chay 2)
Da Nang Vegetarian Bistro was another exquisite find, the team here we’re super friendly, with a really chilled atmosphere. Their “no duck” pancakes were amazing.
Finally, remember keep your belongings safe. Have your important stuff and valuables in a bumbag or securely tucked away.
Also remember to bring a dry bag for the beach so that you don’t leave your valuables unattended. Safe travelling and enjoy the beach.
This is a guest post from Tim Jones from Wildness and Wellbeing, a podcast and blog with a focus on how the outdoors can help your mental health. Tim is currently travelling around Southeast Asia.
