Da Nang, Vietnam: Best Things To Do & Travel Guide For First-Time Travelers

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Da Nang in Vietnam is considered the symbol of urban hustle and bustle in the Central region of Vietnam. Visiting this city, you can get a lot of exciting tourism experiences and have a chance to enjoy many unique dishes.

Da Nang is always one of the top choices for travel enthusiasts. Not only is it famous for its stunning landscapes but it also allures tourists thanks to its friendly locals and delicious specialties. If you are planning to come to Da Nang but do not know where to go, what to eat and where to stay, read this article to get your own answers!

About Da Nang in Vietnam

Here are some pieces of information about Da Nang – the most livable city in Vietnam:

Da Nang’s location

Located in the South Central region, about 961 kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City to the south, Da Nang has various topographical features including mountains, plains and beaches which create many enchanting landscape. In particular, it is surrounded by 3 world cultural heritages: Hue, Hoi An and My Son.

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Da Nang is a major econimic, cultural, educational, scientific and technological center of the Central – Central Highlands regions of Vietnam. Not only being a famous tourist destinations, it is also a transportation corridor between the north and the south of Vietnam, an important gateway to the northern, southern and central provinces.

Da Nang’s weather

Da Nang in Vietnam is affected by the tropical monsoon climate, so it has a high temperature with little fluctuation. There are two distinct seasons in this city: the dry season from January to July and the rainy season from August to December.

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The average annual Da Nang temperature is around 25 degree Celsius. In June, July and August, it witnesses the highest temperature level with an average of 28 – 30 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the lowest temperature level is 18 – 23 degrees Celsius in December, January and February.

Regarding air humidity, the average level is 83.4% each year, with the highest one being around 85.67 – 87.67% in October and the lowest one being around 76.67 – 77.33% in June and July. On some days, there are cold spells but they are not constant.

Top 9 famous Da Nang attractions for your sightseeing

Da Nang in Vietnam has many tourist attractions both in the inner city and in the suburbs. If you have the opportunity to travel to this city, you should definitely not miss the 10 famous places below:

Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula is an ancient woodland characterized by remarkable scenery and a wide range of ecosystems. Many individuals who visit the peninsula are fascinated by the opportunity to discover the diverse plant and animal life within the Son Tra Nature Reserve. Of particular interest are the extraordinary red-shanked dounc langurs, as well as the various bird species, trees and flowers that can be found there.

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From the summit of the Son Tra Peninsula, visitors can experience a magnificent aerial perspective of the awe-inspiring panoramic views of Da Nang city. Furthermore, they can delight in the refreshing, cool sea breezes and immerse themselves in the vast expanse of lush greenery.

Linh Ung Pagoda

Linh Ung Pagoda is a very famous spiritual tourist destination in Da Nang in Vietnam. This place is renowned for its sacred spiritual culture, accompanied by the beauty of the charming countryside. Visiting this place, you can completely relax and find peace in your soul.

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Currently, Da Nang has 3 Linh Ung Pagodas in 3 different places: Ngu Hanh Son, Ba Na (Chua Mountain) and But Beach (Son Tra Peninsula). Depending on your travel itinerary, you can choose one of them to visit.

Sun World Ba Na Hills

For a family-friendly day outing, head to Ba Na Hills. This hilltop resort in the Truong Son Mountains is a 40-minute drive to the west. It was first established as a resort by the Frend back in 1919. While most of the villas were destroyed during the war, the Debay Wine Cellar still remains. Purchase tickets to enter the hills in advance, to skip the queues.

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Your entry includes a round-tip on the impressive cable cars going up and down the mountain. Once there, there are lots to see and do at the themed, castle-like Sun World Amusement Park. Walk the flower gardens or French village, visit the Linh Ung temple, or play games at the amusement park. Of course, many people go to take pictures of the famed Golden Bridge. This 150-meter-long architectural marvel features two gigantic concrete two gigantic concrete hands elegantly holding a shiny gold walkway.

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. Among them, Thuy Son is the largest, highest and most beautiful one so it has become a well-known place for tourists to explore and challenge their ability to conquer nature.

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Reaching the top of Thuy Son, you will be overwhelmed by the stunning natural scenery of the entire Marble Mountains, the view of the city in the distance and the poetic Da Nang beaches surrounding it. All of these will make your trip more meaningful than ever.

Non Nuoc Beach

Non Nuoc Beach is 8 kilometers away from the city center to the Southeast. The beach lies at the foot of Marble Mountains and has a 5-kilometer long coastline winding like a peach-colored silk. The water here is so clear that if you stand on the shore, you can see shoals of white anchovies floating. Coming to Non Nuoc Beach, you should try some activities like snorkeling, reef sighting, sailing, surfing, paragliding,…

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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. Also, it is the shortest path connecting Da Nang International Airport and the main streets in the city.

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Not only being an important bridge of the city, Dragon Bridge is also one of the iconic architectural works of Da Nang City. The best time to see Dragon Bridge is at night when its 15,000 attached led lights are turned on and bring shimmering color effects.

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. With long stretches of fine white sand, clear blue sea, calm waves and warm water all year round, it is a perfect place for your getaway at any time of the year.

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My Khe Beach is divided into 3 areas with a length of about 900 meters. Its coast is about 10 kilometers long which stretches from the foot of Son Tra Peninsula to Ngu Hanh Son.

Da Nang Cathedral

Da Nang Cathedral stands out with its classical Gothic architecture and outstanding pink color. This is a tourist destination that attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists to visit each year. Therefore, it has become a must-see attraction for your Da Nang tour.

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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,…

Hai Van Pass

Motorbike enthusiasts will be keen to adventure along this mountain pass, which Top Gear presenters raved about in their 2008 Vietnam Special TV show. Jeremy Clarkson said the pass is “a deserted ribbon of perfection—one of the best coast roads in the world”.

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The scenic 21km-long “Ocean Cloud” pass is famous for many reasons. It’s one of the longest and highest in the country. It was a strategic boundary during war times. And it separates the climates or the tropical south from the subtropical north. Another reason it’s popular is that it’s easily accessible from Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An. For an epic road trip, ride the pass for 165 km between these three cities. Get up early to make a day of it. Or break it up over a couple of days by overnighting en route.

What to eat in Da Nang City? Top 8 must-try specialities

If you don’t know what to eat in your upcoming trip to Da Nang, let try the 8 best food as mentioned below:

  • Bun mam (Fermented Fish Noodle Soup): The special feature that makes the delicious of bun mam Da Nang is the rich seasoning sauce made according to an esoteric recipe. This dish is served with crispy roasted pork, green vegetables and a little spicy chili. In addition, you can also eat it with fermented pork rolls, boiled pork belly, pork ears, young jackfruit. You can try this signature Da Nang dish at bun mam Ba Vi restaurant located at no.23 Nguyen Tri Phuong street.
  • Mi quang (Vietnamese Tumeric Noodle): The first dish in our list today is the must-try noodle in Da nang is Mi quang. Originally from Quang Nam, a small province near Da Nang, mi quang is a definitive mix between noodle soup and salad. It bone broth. With a reasonable price, you will get a generous dish with several meat toppings for your taste varying from shrimp, pork to chicken. Finally, the mix of basil, coriander and sliced banana flower will add freshness to the bowl.

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  • Banh trang cuon thit heo (Sliced pork in rice paper rolls): As its name implies, banh trang cuon thit heo, is the combination of tender pork and soft rice paper. Like many other specialties of Vietnam, this dish comes with many herbs such as basils, corianders, lettruces, and sliced cucumber. Thus, the fat of meat will be balanced with freshness and the sweet, spicy, sour and salty fish sauce. For a roll of this ensemble, you will need a little bit of finesse.

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  • Banh xeo (Cripsy Savoury Pancake): These turmetic-tinted crepes are made in searing hot pan, creating extra crispy edges that crackle enticingly when rolled in rice paper. Each banh xeo is topped with pork, shrimp, onions, beansprouts and mushroom, then folded in half like a taco. Tear off pieces, roll with herbs and lettuce leaves, and dip into peanut sauce for a mouthful of goodness.
  • Seafood: What’s visit to a coastal city without a seafood feast? Set aside one meal to see how Da Nang enjoys it bountiful seafood. At restaurants along the beach, seafood is chosen from live tanks, priced by weight, and prepared in simple recipes. Clams in lemongrass broth, crab in tamarind and oysters grilled with spring onions are surefire winners.
  • Banh mi ba Lan: Ham sandwiches might be familiar to you since it is famous all around the world. However, Vietnamese bread, which share common with Western sandwiches, will bring you the one in a million experience. One of the must-try eateries in Da Nang is banh mi Mrs.Lan. With the long-standing history, this small food stall sells thousands of traditional bread for a long waiting queue. Banh mi Ba Lan is the combination of crispy bread, jambon, cha, and especially fragrant homemade pate.

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  • Bun cha ca (Fried Fish Cake Noodle Soup): There’s nothing like sitting down to a bowl of Da Nang-style bun cha ca. The star of this dish is a tasty fish cake made of mackerel, catfish, featherback fish and black pepper. Bun cha ca in Đa Nang is made with a delicate broth from fish bones, pumpkin, pineapple, tomato and cabbage. Season yours with lime, chili, shallot vinegar and fresh herbs.
  • Kem bo (Avocado ice-cream): Every student in Vietnam has his or her favourite after school snack. On simmering days in Da Nang, avocado ice-cream or kem bo offers a creamy, indulgent way to cool down. A thick scoop of blended avocado is layered with coconut ice-cream and sprinkled with toasted coconut or jackfruit flakes – the perfect tropical treat.

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Which places near Da Nang are worth visiting?

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 narrow streets adorned with lanterns, visit the iconic Japanese Bridge Hoi An and immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local delicates like Cao Lau, a traditional Vietnamese noodle dish. Hoi An’s unique blend of cultural influences and its picturesque riverside setting make it a must-visit destination near Da Nang.

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Hue

Situated around 100 kilometers north of Da Nang, Hue is a city rich in history and culture. It served as the imperial captical of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty, leaving behind a legacy of magnificent pagodas and tombs. 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. Hue offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past and is worth a visit for history enthusiasts.

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Quang Binh

Quang Binh province, located to the north of Da Nang, is home to stunning natural landscape and renowned cave systems. Visit Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts magnificent caves such as Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave. Adventures can also explore the world’s largest cave, Son Doong Cave, although it requires prior arrangement and specialized tours.

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

Each season in Da Nang has its own beauty for you to explore. Specifically, in the dry season, the weather is mostly sunny so it is extremely suitable for sightseeing and participating in some outdoor activities. Furthermore, this is also the time when Da Nang has many attractive festivals such as fireworks festivals. Therefore, the dry season is the best time to pay a trip to Da Nang in Vietnam.

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If you want a new experience when traveling to Da Nang, visit it in the rainy season. It will be so amusing to hold an umbrella and watch the pouring rain during this time. It is not the peak season so there are less tourists than in the dry season. Also, many entertainment service fees and room rates are also lower, which helps you save a significant amount or money.

How to get to Da Nang in Vietnam?

There are many means of transportation which are suitable for your trip to Da Nang. Depending on where you are, you can choose from different vehicles such as:

  • By plane: The most popular way chosen by many tourists is traveling to Da Nang by plane. It is convenient and time-saving. However, if you choose this means, you should book tickets at least 1-2 months in advance to hunt for cheap tickets, which helps you save money for the trip.

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  • By coach: Currently, there are many bus companies that go from North to South to serve the travel needs of tourist. If you want to have an economical trip, you can choose to travel by coach with prices ranging from 250,000 to 500,000 VND
  • By train: Traveling by train can give you a chance to enjoy the scenery during the trip. In particular, if your schedule includes a visit to Hue, the train is a pretty reasonable choice because you can get off at Hue Station and then move to Da Nang.

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

To prepare things quickly and not forget any important item, you can refer to the following 6 main groups of items:

  • Paper: Don’t forget to bring your identity card airplane ticket or train tickets.
  • Money: Using an ATM card will help ensure safety during your travel. Yet, you should also bring a little cash to pay for services, shopping activities, dining demands,… when needed.
  • 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. Besides, you should bring some sunlight-blocking accessories such as hats, glasses, umbrellas,… in case of weather changes.
  • 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.

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Many tourists love visiting Da Nang in Vietnam because it offers them a chance to contemplate countless breathtaking sceneries and enjoy plenty of unique foods. Above are the entire tips for your tour to this city. Hopefully, it will be helpful for your future trip to Da Nang with your family, your friends or your lover.

Cre: Vinpearl, Pullman Hotels and Resorts Blog, Vietnam Travel Blog

Images: Internet

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