This city is the perfect introduction to a holiday in Vietnam
Da Nang is the perfect introduction to Vietnam, and a great holiday spot for Aussies looking for a laid-back holiday.
It's got golden beaches and lush mountains, plus a lively city with a great street food scene that you'd expect in Vietnam.
Here's everything you need to know about a holiday to Da Nang.
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Things to do in Da Nang
My Khe Beach
Swim in the gentle waves or take a long walk along one of Vietnam's most famous stretches of sand. If you get hungry or thirsty, park up at one of the many bars lining the promenade.
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Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)
This group of five limestone peaks is situated just seven kilometres from downtown Da Nang. Explore caves, pagodas, and viewpoints and learn about the staggering history of this sacred location.
Marble Mountains cut an impressive figure. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng)
This dragon-shaped bridge in the heart of the city is impressive by day, just driving or walking across it. But at night, it comes alive during shows when it breathes fire and spits water.
Markets
Browse fresh produce, street food, clothes, and souvenirs in these bustling local markets. Bring cash and empty bags for your purchases!
Helio Night Market is a favourite for street eats, music, and a laid-back evening vibe.
Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Church)
This charming, pastel-pink French colonial church right in the city centre is a distinctive piece of Gothic architecture, built in the 1920s.
Hoi An Ancient Town is UNESCO-listed. Getty
Day trip to Hoi An
Though there are organised tours that can take you to Hoi An, you're better off using Uber or a local driver to take you there. Then you can spend your day exploring to your heart's content before heading home.
What is Da Nang known for?
Da Nang is known for its mix of chill coastal vibes and modern city energy. It's famous for the long, white-sand My Khe Beach, and the nearby Marble Mountains.
The city is also a gateway to Hoi An, a beautiful former port city, cut through with canals, that has a UNESCO Heritage-listed Ancient Town.
With a thriving food scene, Da Nang is often listed as one of Vietnam's most liveable cities, and is a great place to holiday.
Golden Bridge is a short drive from the city. Getty
Best time to visit to Da Nang
February to May is the sweet spot. You'll get pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall.
If you come in September to November, there will be fewer crowds and lower prices, but it's the rainy season, so there are frequent storms.
November can see peak rainfall (sometimes more than 600 mm in a month).
Where to stay in Da Nang for first-timers
Depends on what kind of holiday you want!
- My Khe Beach: Best for beach lovers
- City Centre / Han River: Best for food, nightlife, and convenience
- Son Tra Peninsula: Best for nature and views
The Son Tra Peninsula is a quiet break from the city. Getty
How many days in Da Nang is enough
For most travellers, four or five days in Da Nang is the perfect amount.
This gives you time to spend two days exploring the city, a day for a trip to Hoi An or the Ba Na Hills, and a chilled-out day on the beach or Son Tra Peninsula.
Mì Quang is a local must-try. Getty
What to eat in Da Nang
Vietnamese food is delicious, and Da Nang has a great dining scene for foodies. Here are some must-try dishes for the region:
- Mì Quảng: yellow rice noodles in a flavourful broth, often with shrimp and pork
- Bún Chả Cá: fish cake noodle soup
- Bánh Xèo: crispy rice pancakes stuffed with vermicelli, meat, and bean sprouts
- Bánh Tráng Cuốn Thịt Heo: pork belly rice paper rolls
Helio Night Market and streets like Nguyễn Văn Thoại are great for street food.
