Blog Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam is an amazing puzzle, we are happy to assist you to puzzle

your amazing trip for Vietnam

Friends Travel Vietnam the Travel Company Turning Travellers Into

Friends Since 2013

Search & Read more...

Travel packages, private tours, group tours

24/7 Support



The best Price - the best products


Local Experiences



Tung Lam • April 22, 2025

Da Nang Best Things To Do: Travel Tips & Local Experiences

Contents


1. Why Da Nang is One of Vietnam’s Top Travel Cities

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s most vibrant, clean, and tourist-friendly cities. It combines modern energy with natural beauty, local charm, and close access to iconic destinations like Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, and the Marble Mountains.

Whether you’re a beach lover, a food explorer, or a culture seeker, Da Nang has something for you — and with the right travel partner, your time here can be stress-free and unforgettable.

💡 Looking for a guided experience? Friends Travel Vietnam offers top-rated local tours in Da Nang — from half-day city discovery to full-day adventures.


2. Best Time to Visit Da Nang (Weather, Festivals, Crowd Levels)

Da Nang has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry (February to August) and rainy (September to January).

✅ Best months to visit:

  • March to May: Warm, dry, fewer crowds
  • June to August: Hot and sunny, great for beaches (peak domestic season)
  • December to January: Mild weather, quieter city

❌ Avoid if possible:

  • September to November: Rainy season, risk of storms

📌 Tip: Book in shoulder season (March–April or September) for best hotel deals and fewer tourists.


3. How to Get to Da Nang (By Plane, Train, Bus)

Da Nang is one of the most accessible cities in Vietnam, with multiple transportation options for both domestic and international travelers.

✈️ By Air:

  • Da Nang International Airport (DAD) serves direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, and more.
  • The airport is just 10–15 minutes from city center by taxi or Grab.

🚆 By Train:

  • The Reunification Express stops in Da Nang from north and south
  • Scenic coastal ride if you're coming from Hue or Nha Trang

🚌 By Bus:

  • Long-distance buses available from nearby cities like Hue, Hoi An, Quy Nhon
  • Ask Friends Travel Vietnam for transfer arrangements

4. How to Get Around Da Nang (Taxi, Grab, Scooter, Bicycle)

Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam, is a gateway to beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the stunning Marble Mountains. With its well-developed infrastructure, getting around Da Nang is convenient and enjoyable, whether you’re exploring the beaches, the city center, or surrounding attractions. Here’s a guide to the best ways to get around Da Nang:

1. Motorbike Rental

  • Best For: Flexible travel, independent exploration, and accessing attractions outside the city.
  • Description: Renting a motorbike is one of the most popular ways to explore Da Nang. It gives you the freedom to move at your own pace and reach spots like Marble Mountains, Lady Buddha, and Son Tra Peninsula easily. Motorbikes can be rented from shops or hotels, with daily rates starting around 100,000–150,000 VND.
  • Popular Destinations by Motorbike:
  • Marble Mountains: A short ride south from the city center.
  • Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain): Known for its scenic views and giant Lady Buddha statue.
  • Tips:
  • Be cautious with traffic, especially during rush hours, as roads can be busy.
  • Wear a helmet and make sure your bike is in good condition before setting out.

2. Bicycle Rental

  • Best For: Relaxed exploration of beach areas and nearby attractions.
  • Description: Da Nang’s flat terrain makes it an excellent city for biking. Bicycle rentals are common in beachside areas, where you can ride along My Khe Beach or take a leisurely trip around the city center. Hotels and rental shops offer bikes for daily or hourly rates.
  • Suggested Routes:
  • Beachfront Path: Cycling along My Khe Beach and Non Nuoc Beach is scenic and relatively traffic-free.
  • City Center to Dragon Bridge: Ideal for exploring the city’s highlights.
  • Tips:
  • Da Nang can get very hot, so plan your ride in the morning or evening.
  • Stick to designated paths and avoid busy streets during peak hours for a safer ride.

3. Taxi and Grab

  • Best For: Comfortable, air-conditioned rides and convenient city transport.
  • Description: Taxis and Grab (a popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam) are widely available throughout Da Nang, making them ideal for short trips around the city or quick rides to the airport. Taxi fares are metered, and Grab offers fixed pricing through the app, which can be more affordable.
  • Tips:
  • Use Grab for a straightforward fare and convenient pickup.
  • Stick with reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun to avoid any issues.

4. Private Car with Driver

  • Best For: Families, groups, or travelers wanting comfort for longer trips.
  • Description: Hiring a private car with a driver offers flexibility, comfort, and air-conditioning, which is perfect for full-day explorations or trips to surrounding areas like Hoi An or Ba Na Hills. Many local agencies and hotels provide car rental services with drivers.
  • Suggested Itinerary by Car:
  • Da Nang City ➔ Ba Na Hills ➔ Hoi An Ancient Town: This is a popular full-day route for exploring nearby attractions.
  • Tips:
  • Arrange car rental in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Discuss your itinerary with the driver to ensure you cover everything you want to see.

5. Bus

  • Best For: Budget-friendly travel to specific destinations.
  • Description: Da Nang has a public bus system with routes connecting various parts of the city and nearby areas. The bus route from Da Nang to Hoi An is particularly popular among budget travelers, costing around 30,000 VND each way. Buses are air-conditioned, though they can be infrequent.
  • Tips:
  • Check the schedule in advance, as buses may not run as frequently outside the city center.
  • Bring cash in small denominations to pay for the fare.

6. Dragon Bridge and River Cruises

  • Best For: Evening sightseeing and scenic views along the river.
  • Description: Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge is a popular landmark that lights up at night, with a fire-breathing show on weekends. Many companies offer river cruises along the Han River, providing a beautiful nighttime view of the city’s bridges and illuminated skyline. You can book tickets for these cruises along the riverside or through your hotel.
  • Tips:
  • Plan to see the Dragon Bridge show on weekends (Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM).
  • Some river cruises include refreshments and music, so compare offerings before booking.

7. Walking

  • Best For: Exploring the city center, beaches, and nearby attractions on foot.
  • Description: Da Nang’s city center is relatively walkable, especially around Han Market, Dragon Bridge, and the Riverside Park area. Walking is also ideal for the beachfront promenade, where you can enjoy seaside views, visit cafes, and take in the local atmosphere.
  • Popular Walking Areas:
  • Dragon Bridge and Bach Dang Street: Scenic walk along the river with shops, cafes, and great views of the bridge.
  • My Khe Beach Promenade: A beautiful spot for a sunrise or sunset walk.
  • Tips:
  • Carry water and wear sunscreen, especially if walking along the beach during the day.
  • Early mornings and evenings are ideal for a comfortable walk.

8. Ba Na Hills Cable Car

  • Best For: Reaching Ba Na Hills and enjoying panoramic mountain views.
  • Description: The Ba Na Hills Cable Car is a scenic ride to the top of Ba Na Hills, known for the Golden Bridge, French Village, and various attractions. Located about 30 km from Da Nang, the cable car takes you up to the hills in about 20 minutes, offering beautiful views along the way.
  • Tips:
  • Plan for an early start, as Ba Na Hills can get crowded during the day.
  • Dress in layers, as temperatures at the top are often cooler than in Da Nang.

5. Top Things to Do in Da Nang

Da Nang, located along Vietnam’s central coast, is known for its beautiful beaches, modern vibe, cultural attractions, and proximity to world-famous heritage sites. A gateway city to UNESCO sites like Hoi An and My Son, Da Nang also has its own charms, from scenic mountains and bridges to thriving food and nightlife scenes. Here are the top experiences in Da Nang:

5.1. Walk the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills

Marveling at the Golden Bridge on Ba Na Hills

One of Vietnam’s most famous modern landmarks: the giant stone hands holding a bridge in the sky.

  • Located at Ba Na Hills resort, 1 hour from Da Nang
  • Ride the world’s longest cable car
  • Enjoy cooler weather, gardens, and French village theme park

📸 Golden hour is ideal for photos — but expect crowds.

5.2. Relax on My Khe Beach

Exploring the Local Culture and Ethnic Villages

Considered one of Asia’s most beautiful beaches, My Khe is perfect for:

  • Morning runs and sunrise views
  • Swimming and beach cafes
  • Watersports like jet-skiing and paddleboarding

📌 Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh sun.

🏖️ Need beach pickup or an evening seafood tour? Ask us about our beach add-ons when booking a tour.

5.3. Visit the Iconic Marble Mountains

Exploring the Marble Mountains

Just a 15-minute drive from the city center, the Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn) are a cluster of limestone and marble hills filled with caves, temples, and panoramic viewpoints.

  • Climb the stone steps to see ancient Buddhist shrines
  • Explore hidden caves like Huyen Khong
  • View Da Nang’s coastline from the summit lookout

5.4. Enjoy the Dragon Bridge Fire & Water Show

Walking Across the Dragon Bridge

Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9PM, Da Nang’s iconic Dragon Bridge breathes fire and water in a spectacular 10-minute show.

  • Best viewed from the riverbanks or nearby cafes
  • Arrive early (8:30PM) to get a good spot
  • Combine it with a Han River night cruise for the full experience

🔥 Friends Travel Vietnam offers a combo: river cruise + fire show + night market tour. Ask for “Da Nang by Night” experience.

5.5. Taking in the Views from Son Tra (Monkey) Mountain

Taking in the Views from Son Tra (Monkey) Mountain
  • Overview: Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, offers lush rainforest, beaches, and viewpoints overlooking Da Nang.
  • Experience: Drive or hike up the mountain to visit the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue, which provides expansive views of the coastline and city.
  • Highlights: The peninsula is also a nature reserve home to rare species like the red-shanked douc langur, a type of monkey unique to the region.
  • Best Time for Views: Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and temperatures are cooler.

5.6. Sampling Da Nang’s Street Food Scene

Sampling Da Nang’s Street Food Scene
  • Overview: Da Nang’s cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and local specialties.
  • Must-Try Dishes:
  • Mi Quang: A turmeric-flavored noodle dish topped with shrimp, pork, peanuts, and fresh herbs.
  • Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with rice paper and herbs.
  • Bun Cha Ca: A fish cake noodle soup that’s light, refreshing, and packed with local herbs.
  • Best Places to Eat: Han Market and Con Market are great spots to explore local dishes, while many street vendors and small eateries around the city serve these dishes at affordable prices.

5.7. Visiting the Cham Museum

Visiting the Cham Museum
  • Overview: The Cham Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Cham artifacts, giving insight into the ancient Champa Kingdom that once ruled parts of central Vietnam.
  • What to Expect: Exhibits include stone carvings, statues, and relics from Cham temples, illustrating the culture’s Hindu and Buddhist influences.
  • Highlights: The museum is particularly known for its sculptures of Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
  • Historical Insight: This is an ideal stop before or after visiting the My Son ruins (an hour away from Da Nang), providing context for the Champa civilization.

5.8. Day Trip to Hoi An Ancient Town

Day Trip to Hoi An Ancient Town
  • Overview: Da Nang’s nightlife is lively, with riverside bars, rooftop lounges, and beach clubs offering a variety of experiences.
  • Popular Spots:
  • Sky 36: A rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city and Han River, perfect for enjoying cocktails and city lights.
  • Beachside Bars: Spots like A La Carte’s rooftop bar and the surf bar scene at My Khe Beach offer relaxing spots with ocean views.
  • Dragon Bridge Night Show: End the night with the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show if you’re out on a weekend.
  • Tip: For a quieter evening, enjoy a riverside café where you can watch the illuminated bridges and city lights.

5.9. Explore the Historic Han Market

For a taste of local life, visit this bustling traditional market.

  • Great for souvenirs, clothes, dried seafood, and spices
  • Try fresh fruit, sugarcane juice, and street snacks
  • Bargaining is expected — be polite, smile!

📌 Address: 119 Tran Phu Street, open daily 6AM–7PM

🛍️ Join a morning walking tour with a local guide to learn what to eat, what to skip, and where to find hidden gems.


6. Try Da Nang’s Best Local Foods

No trip to Da Nang is complete without sampling its specialties — each dish is flavorful, affordable, and unique to the region.

6.1. Mi Quang (Quang-Style Noodles)

Mi Quang (Quang-Style Noodles)

Mi Quang is a signature dish of the central region, known for its yellow-tinted noodles made from rice flour. The noodles are served with a small amount of flavorful broth and toppings like shrimp, pork, quail eggs, peanuts, and fresh herbs. It’s often enjoyed with crispy rice crackers and lime for extra flavor.

6.2. Bun Cha Ca (Fish Cake Noodle Soup)

Bun Cha Ca (Fish Cake Noodle Soup)

This noodle soup is made with rice vermicelli, flavorful fish broth, and pieces of grilled fish cake. It’s often topped with vegetables such as tomatoes, bamboo shoots, and pumpkin, and served with a side of fresh herbs. Bún chả cá has a light yet savory taste, perfect for a warm meal.

6.3. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes)

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes)

These crispy pancakes are made from rice flour and filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Banh xeo in Da Nang is typically smaller and served with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a tangy dipping sauce. Wrap a piece in rice paper with herbs for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.

6.4. Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (Pork Rolls with Rice Paper)

Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (Pork Rolls with Rice Paper)

This dish consists of thin slices of boiled pork belly served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and an array of vegetables. The highlight is the fermented fish sauce, which adds a deep, umami flavor. You can wrap the pork, vegetables, and herbs in rice paper for a fresh and satisfying bite.

6.5. Goi Ca Nam O (Nam O Fish Salad)

Goi Ca Nam O (Nam O Fish Salad)

This specialty from Nam O fishing village near Da Nang is made from raw fish (usually sardines or anchovies), marinated in a mix of vinegar, chili, and local herbs. It’s served with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and a dipping sauce, providing a unique mix of textures and flavors.

6.6. Bun Mam Nem (Noodles with Anchovy Sauce)

Bun Mam Nem (Noodles with Anchovy Sauce)

Bun mam nem is a popular street food dish made with rice noodles, roasted pork, or grilled meat, fresh herbs, and a generous amount of anchovy sauce. It has a pungent but addictive flavor that’s balanced by fresh herbs and vegetables.

6.7. Nem Lui (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Nem Lui (Grilled Pork Skewers)

These skewers of marinated pork are grilled over charcoal and served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a unique peanut sauce. Nem lụi is often wrapped with herbs and rice paper to create a flavorful and satisfying wrap, popular among locals and tourists alike.


7. Visit Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture

If you love history, art, or archaeology, don’t miss this unique museum.

  • Home to over 300 Cham artifacts, dating back to the 5th century
  • Located near Han River, walkable from city center
  • Great cultural context before visiting My Son Sanctuary later

📌 Entry fee: 60,000 VND (~$2.50 USD)

🎫 Ask about our Cham History Combo Tour, which includes the museum + Marble Mountains + local lunch.

8. Go on a Night Cruise on the Han River

One of the most romantic and relaxing ways to explore Da Nang.

  • Cruise past the Dragon Bridge, Love Bridge, and city skyline
  • Live music, drinks, and lantern-lit decks
  • Best during weekends when the dragon breathes fire

🚤 Book your Han River Night Cruise with Friends Travel Vietnam — includes pickup and guide in English.

9. Shop & Eat at Bac My An Market

A hidden gem loved by locals and savvy travelers.

  • Famous for avocado ice cream, grilled pork skewers, and Banh Canh
  • Cheap and authentic, but basic atmosphere
  • Come hungry, leave full

📌 Tip: Bring small bills, and try the Banh Mi Op La stand near the back entrance.

10. Discover Da Nang’s Street Food Scene

Da Nang is a paradise for food lovers on foot. You don’t need fine dining — just good shoes, a local guide, and a big appetite.

  • Eat like a local in alleyway vendors and roadside stalls
  • Try banh trang kep, nem lui, bun mam
  • Navigate confidently with a guide who knows where the real flavors live

🍢 Want to skip the guesswork? Book our Evening Street Food Walking Tour and let your taste buds lead the way.

11. Final Travel Tips for Visiting Da Nang

Before you start booking, here are some helpful tips to make your trip smoother:

🧳 Quick checklist:

  • ✅ Bring sunblock, mosquito spray, and a hat
  • ✅ Download Grab and Google Translate for convenience
  • ✅ Use cash for local markets, but cards are accepted at hotels
  • ✅ Respect pagoda dress codes: cover shoulders and knees
  • ✅ Always confirm pickup times if you book a private tour

💡 Still unsure what fits your style? Contact Friends Travel Vietnam — the team is happy to customize your itinerary.

12. FAQs About Visiting Da Nang

How many days should I spend in Da Nang?

You have 45 days to return items for a full refund, with or without a receipt. Items must still have their original tags.

Is Da Nang safe for solo travelers?

You have 45 days to return items for a full refund, with or without a receipt. Items must still have their original tags.

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Check Vietnam e-Visa portal for details.

Can I book last-minute tours?

Yes — but early booking is recommended during weekends and holidays.

13. Conclusion: Discover Da Nang, the Smart Way

From sunrise beaches to sunset bridges, spicy noodles to peaceful pagodas — Da Nang is full of unforgettable moments waiting for you.

Whether you're here for a day or a week, traveling solo or with family, Da Nang rewards those who explore it with curiosity, flexibility, and local insight.

🎯 Ready to experience it all? Let Friends Travel Vietnam be your local expert, your translator, and your behind-the-scenes planner.
➡️ Need something custom?
Contact us for a personalized itinerary.

We Love to Hear your comment ;-)

Keep Up To Date And Be Entertained With Our Blog!

Increase Your Savvy With Our Favourite Blog Articles

Thanks for reading & supporting our blog, we really hope you enjoyed it! At "Friends Travel Vietnam" it is our mission to make your stay in our beautiful country as unforgettable as possible. One of the ways we do that is by providing high quality and informative blogs, like the one you just read! 


Please support us by sharing this blog, liking our Facebook page, or signing up for our mailing list, keep yourself updated! Your support means the world to us! 

Enjoy your holiday preparation for Vietnam & we do hope you fail in Love of Vietnam as we do? 


Thanks & Greetings,
Sidney and Thao Van Meenen
Owners & Founders

Friends Travel Vietnam

Pssst.... We are looking for Guest Bloggers here in Vietnam, contact us

  Subscribe Newsletter

Newsletter subscription Blog Friends Travel Vietnam

Show More

Index Travel Blog

Read & view more blog articles about Vietnam

All Blog Travel Guides Regions In Vietnam

Read & view more blog articles about Travel Guides Regions In Vietnam

Index Northern Vietnam Travel Guide

Index Central Vietnam Travel Guide

Index Southern Vietnam Travel Guide

Index Islands of Vietnam Travel Guide

All Regions as Destinations In Vietnam

Read & view more information about Regions as Destinations In Vietnam

Though Vietnam looks small on the map, you could easily spend weeks exploring this fascinating country. From the jagged mountains in the north to the tropical beaches in the south & central Vietnam – and all of the history and culture in between. The country is developed enough to offer most comforts but still wild enough to provide off-the-beaten-path adventure for travellers who love trekking into the Northern mountains, Vietnam will not let you down in anyway. Welcome to Vietnam, a land of staggering natural beauty & cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities & hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is both exotic and compelling.


Moreover, as Vietnam is safe, welcoming solo travellers & all other travelers from walks of life!

Index Northern Destinations Vietnam

Index Central Destinations Vietnam

Index Island Destinations in Vietnam

We do More Crazy Stuff...

We don't believe in going the extra mile at Friends Travel Vietnam, we believe in completing the entire journey. That’s why we offer our guests an entire host of extra services, ensuring their stay is as hassle free experience. We take pride in the wide variety of destinations in Vietnam that we offer. Each and every destination in Vietnam on offer is carefully selected, sourcing and visiting personally by our team of destination specialist as service providers and accommodation that meets our exceptional standards, it's all about the details!

Experience an unforgettable escape
and discover more what to do & how to get around in Vietnam, with our special "Destinations" section, or wonder around great detailed articles on our "Travel Blog", or you are more interested to find the right "Travel Package" for your group or family, perhaps you like Lego and would like to build your own holiday with our "Holiday Travel Building Blocks" yourself, you like to know what great "Excursions & Tours" you can do together, or you sitting with your hands in your hair to find your way to your next destination but not sure which "Transportation" for sure jump on the backseat of the motorbike with our Easy Riders for the adventures travellers. From amazing hotels selections to stay, romantic day or overnight cruises and last and no least train tickets or bus ticket to get around Vietnam, you see it's enough to choose from for a successful Vietnam Holidays with us. No worries, we got you! 

In short, there isn’t a destination in Vietnam
, sight or experience out of reach for our team of travel experts . Whether you are traveling solo, with friends or with your family; whether you are young or old; whether you want adventure and excitement or rest and relaxation, we’ll have single tour options or complete tailored travel package for you!.

FAQ's

Got Questions? Great, cause we’ve got the answers for you! We’ve put together commonly asked questions to give you more information about “traveling in Vietnam" and the cover we offer. Follow the link below and we bring to FriendsTravelVietnam.com our booking website. Feel free to contact us if any question that you can’t find the answer to.

We Got The Answers?

Planning on Booking Your Trip To Vietnam?

Friends Travel Vietnam got you, ashas been inspiring travellers with curious-minded love & passion for Vietnam since 2013. With our on-the-ground-secret destinations & our netwerk of human-human partners and our passionate knowledge team of our "Real Local Travel Experts" on the office and in the field you can book unique, authentic experiences with ease. We’ll take you off the beaten path in no time as all you wish!  Let us us help you? We've done tons of homework & experiences just create the ultimate trip for you!  Just simple, all as you wish!“


This is what we do! Making your holiday dreams in Vietnam coming true with us! Is the excursion, tour or trip of your choice not listed? No worries, our Team of local destination experts will be happy to assist you.
Sidney
and Thao Van Meenen
Owners & Founders

Friends Travel Vietnam


Dreaming of your very own adventure in Vietnam? 

We don’t blame you! Just don't follow the crowd - find your own path in with us in Vietnam for your next holiday. 

Plan to Design my Trip