Must Do In Da Nang: Best Things To Do During Your Trip

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a small commission at no cost for you, if you purchase through these links.

Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, is a destination that beautifully balances cultural richness with natural beauty. Known for its sandy beaches, scenic mountain landscapes, and vibrant city life, Da Nang offers diverse activities that cater to every type of traveler.

We stopped at Da Nang without having a clear idea about what we would get out of it but ended up loving the city, its vibe, the beaches, and the many things to do that are a must when in Da Nang.

For this reason, I want to share the top must-do activities in Da Nang, ensuring your visit is filled with unforgettable experiences.

Explore the Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills located south of Da Nang city. Each mountain is named after one of the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. These mountains hold great historical and spiritual significance, housing various Buddhist sanctuaries, temples, and grottoes within their peaks and caves. A visit to the Marble Mountains offers not just a spiritual journey but also a physical one, as you climb steep steps, explore cavernous interiors, and are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the coastline. The intricacy of the temples and the serene atmosphere make this a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Da Nang.

Sunbathe at My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is renowned for its soft white sands, gentle waves, and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. It’s also considered one of the best beaches in the world. Stretching over 10 kilometers along the coast, the beach is lined with palm trees and offers ample amenities, including loungers, umbrellas, and beachside cafes. Visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation under the sun or partake in thrilling activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and surfing. My Khe Beach’s cleanliness, safety, and beauty have earned it a spot among the world’s most attractive beaches, highlighting it as a not-to-be-missed spot in Da Nang.

Wander Around the Han Market

The Han Market is a bustling, vibrant market that offers a glimpse into the daily life of Da Nang’s locals. Located in the heart of the city, this market is a blend of colors, smells, and sounds, featuring stalls selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, souvenirs, and local delicacies. It’s an ideal place to sample traditional Vietnamese food, like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls, at very affordable prices. Shopping at Han Market is not just about the goods on offer but the experience of mingling with locals, haggling for prices, and soaking up the lively atmosphere that defines Southeast Asian markets.

Experience the Golden Bridge

The Golden Bridge is an architectural wonder that has captured the world’s attention. Located in the Ba Na Hills, this pedestrian bridge is held aloft by two gigantic stone hands, creating the illusion of a golden thread being gently lifted by the landscape’s giants. Walking along the bridge offers breathtaking views of the lush mountainside and the clouds below, making for an almost surreal experience. The bridge’s unique design and scenic backdrop have made it a popular spot for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts, ensuring that a visit here will leave you with stunning photos and memories.

Visit the Dragon Bridge at Night

The Dragon Bridge is an example of modern engineering and a symbol of Da Nang’s growth and prosperity. Spanning the Han River, this bridge is designed to resemble a golden dragon, a creature of great importance in Vietnamese culture. What makes the Dragon Bridge a must-see attraction is its weekend nighttime spectacle, when the dragon breathes fire and sprays water, accompanied by colorful lights. This dramatic display attracts both locals and tourists, creating a communal atmosphere of awe and excitement.

Take a Day Trip to the Ba Na Hills

A day trip to the Ba Na Hills transports visitors back in time to a French colonial village nestled in the mountains. Apart from the village’s charming European architecture, the Ba Na Hills are home to the world’s longest non-stop single-track cable car, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The area is also known for its fantasy park, botanical gardens, and a replica of a French medieval cathedral. The cooler climate provides a refreshing break from the coastal heat, making the Ba Na Hills a perfect retreat for those exploring the area’s natural and historical wonders.

Visit the Lady Buddha

The Lady Buddha, located at the Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula, stands as a beacon of peace and spirituality overlooking the sea. This magnificent statue, which is one of the tallest in Vietnam, represents the compassion and wisdom of the Bodhisattva of Mercy, Guanyin. The serene presence of the Lady Buddha can be felt from miles away, inviting visitors to explore the tranquil gardens and the beautifully adorned temple that surrounds the statue. The panoramic views of Da Nang and the surrounding ocean from this vantage point are breathtaking, offering a moment of reflection and connection with nature. Visitors are often captivated by the peaceful atmosphere, the intricate details of the statue, and the architectural beauty of the pagoda. A visit to the Lady Buddha is not just a cultural excursion but a spiritual journey, offering insights into Buddhist beliefs and the opportunity to experience a sense of serenity and contemplation.

Drive The Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass, famously known as one of Vietnam’s most scenic hillside roads and one of the most beautiful in the world, promises an exhilarating adventure. This winding road stretches over a mountainous route separating Da Nang and Hue, offering breathtaking coastlines and the South China Sea vistas. Riding through the pass, you’ll encounter remnants of historic fortifications, lush landscapes, and the thrill of the open road.

Take A Day Trip to Hoi An

Just a short drive from Da Nang, the ancient town of Hoi An offers a captivating excursion into Vietnam’s historical tapestry. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has preserved its incredible legacy as a trading port dating back to the 15th century, with architecture and a street plan reflecting indigenous and foreign influences. A day trip to Hoi An is not just a journey through time but also an immersion into a vibrant cultural and culinary scene that has thrived for centuries.

Best Time to Visit Da Nang

The best time to visit Da Nang depends largely on the weather, with the city experiencing a tropical monsoon climate characterized by a wet season and a dry season. The dry season, spanning from January to July, offers sunny days with low humidity, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions, lounging on the beaches, and participating in water sports. This period also sees the celebration of several festivals, including the Tet New Year in late January or early February and the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival in June, providing visitors with unique cultural experiences. The wet season, from August to December, brings heavier rains and higher humidity, which might restrict some outdoor activities but also offers a more laid-back atmosphere and fewer tourists. Temperatures throughout the year are relatively warm, averaging from 20°C to 33°C (68°F to 91°F).

For those looking to make the most of their visit with favorable weather conditions and the opportunity to experience local festivities, March to May is the best time. During these months, the weather is comfortably warm, and the city basks in the vibrant colors of spring, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

Save on accommodation, flights, activities, and WiFi for your trip to Vietnam using our comprehensive set of resources that we always use when traveling:

Check all our resources about Vietnam and plan your trip:

• Best Places To Visit In Vietnam
• Best Time To Go To Vietnam By Region And Season
• The Best Day Trips From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Vietnam And Cambodia Itinerary For A Transformative Journey
• Explore Ho Chi Minh: A Complete Itinerary And Guide
• The Best Food In Ho Chi Minh And Advice For Foodies
• The Best Hanoi Itinerary And How To Spend 3 Days In Hanoi
• Backpacking In Vietnam: Route And Advice For First-Timers
• Best Food In Hanoi, Vietnam Beyond Pho: A Food Lover’s Guide
• 5 Days In Vietnam: 5 Curated Itinerary Ideas For All Travellers
• Best Food In Vietnam: The Most Famous Dishes To Try
• 10-Day Itinerary In Vietnam: Nature, Culture & Amazing Food