Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and unsure whether to include Da Nang in your itinerary? You’re in for a treat if you do! Da Nang, the third largest city in Vietnam, offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, making it a must-visit destination. From innovative skylines to serene riverside promenades and sandy beaches, Da Nang has something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 25 of the best things to do in Da Nang, ranging from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and everything in between. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to relax on the beach, Da Nang has it all. Let’s dive in and discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city.
Discovering Da Nang: Top Attractions and Activities
1. Ba Na Hills
- Spectacular vistas at the summit with cable car access
- Ba Na Hill Fantasy Park and wax museum for entertainment
- Recommended tour: Full-Day Ba Na Hills and Linh Ung Pagoda Tour from Da Nang
2. Cong Caphe
- Communist-themed coffee shop with a unique atmosphere
- Signature coffee mixed with yogurt for a one-of-a-kind taste
- Perfect location next to the river for scenic views
3. My Khe Beach
- Stunning 20-mile beach with crystal-clear waters
- Water sports like jet skiing and surfing available
- Relax on the golden sand or snorkel in the azure waters
4. Marble Mountains
- Five limestone hills with Buddhist pagodas and shrines
- Panoramic views over the countryside from the mountaintop
- Suggested tour: From Da Nang: Marble Mountain and Son Tra Peninsula
5. Dragon Bridge
- Iconic dragon-shaped bridge with a show every Saturday and Sunday
- Dragon spits out fire and water during the performance
- A must-see attraction in the center of Da Nang
6. Cham Museum
- Explore the history of the Cham people in Vietnam
- Only Cham museum in the world with exhibits dating back centuries
- Terracotta and stone pieces from the 7th to the 15th centuries on display
7. Hai Van Pass
- Highest pass in Vietnam with panoramic views of Da Nang
- Historical markers including a fort from the French colonial period
- Suggested tour: Full-Day Hai Van Pass & Lang Co Beach from Da Nang
8. Son Tra Mountain
- Home of the rare red face monkey in a national park setting
- Winding roads for hiking and cycling adventures
- Son Tra Peninsula by Motorbike tour available
9. Golfing
- Da Nang’s idyllic golf courses offer lush greens by the beach
- Da Nang Golf Club voted one of the best new golf courses in the world
- Perfect for a relaxing game with stunning ocean views
10. Linh Ung Pagoda
- Tallest statues of the Goddess of Mercy in the region
- Stunning architectural features atop Son Tra Mountain
- Suggested tour: Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda Half-Day Tour
11. Non Nuoc Beach
- White powdery sand beach with crystal-clear waters
- Surfing and jet skiing activities available
- Seafood restaurants lining the coast for a delightful dining experience
12. Phap Lam Pagoda
- Serene setting with Buddha sculptures amidst lush gardens
- Central courtyard with a 1.1 meter high Buddha statue
- Vegetarian food options available from nearby food carts
13. Da Nang Cathedral
- Famous Catholic church with signature pink edifice
- Colorful stained-glass windows and a large bell tower
- Local nickname “Con Ga” or Rooster Church due to iconic weathervane
14. Cham Islands
- Beautiful neighboring islands with coral reefs and colorful fish
- Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and overnight camping
- Cham Island: Snorkeling Tour available for a memorable experience
15. Con Market
- 2,000 shops selling clothes, footwear, and local handicrafts
- A great place to shop for gifts and souvenirs from Da Nang
- Sample street food from carts and cafes in the area
16. Pham Van Dong Beach
- Soft sandy beach frequented by film crews for its beauty
- Ideal for barefoot walks along the pristine shoreline
- Resorts and restaurants nearby for a relaxing beach day
17. Fifth Military Division Museum
- Explore the brutal history of the Vietnam War at this museum
- Antiques, memorabilia, and signature military pieces on display
- Learn about the Fifth Division soldiers’ contributions during the war
18. My Son Sanctuary
- UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins of the Champa Kingdom
- Ornate carvings, stone pillars, and impressive architecture
- From Da Nang: My Son Sanctuary Tour for a guided experience
19. Ho Chi Minh Museum
- Insight into the life and leadership of Ho Chi Minh
- Collection of Soviet and Chinese weapons on display
- Model of Ho Chi Minh’s house and museum exhibition areas
20. Han River Bridge
- Cable-supported swing bridge with colorful changing lights
- Spectacular bridge swing at midnight to allow ships to pass
- Take a river cruise for a different view of the bridge
21. Asia Park
- Large amusement and cultural facility on the coast
- Three zones including an Amusement Park, Cultural Park, and Central Zone
- Sun Wheel clock tower offers panoramic views and entertainment
22. Surfing
- Ride the waves at China Beach and My Khe Beach
- Surf schools available for beginners to advanced surfers
- Surf season from November to March for ideal conditions
23. Waterfront
- Riverfront lounge and restaurant with the best river views
- Enjoy cool drinks and vegetarian bites while watching the sunset
- Relaxing atmosphere for a memorable dining experience
24. Cao Dai Temple
- Largest temple of its kind in Vietnam with 50,000 worshippers
- Representations of important figures from five world religions
- Divine Eye globe and altar for a unique spiritual experience
25. Sky 36
- New rooftop bar with panoramic views of Da Nang River and bridges
- Smart-casual dress code with delicious cocktails and bar snacks
- Ideal spot for a night of partying with the best city views
Final Thoughts
From stunning beaches to ancient ruins, Da Nang offers a diverse range of attractions for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your Da Nang adventure, and don’t forget to explore the hidden gems and local favorites along the way. Da Nang is waiting to be discovered – are you ready to explore its wonders?