Da Nang is always an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy breathtaking nature and a vibrant atmosphere. Check out this comprehensive Da Nang travel guide below!
Introduction to Da Nang
The “shining gem” of Central Vietnam, Da Nang is a bustling coastal city with a prime geographical location, situated equidistant from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It serves as a central hub connecting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Ancient Capital of Hue, the Ancient Town of Hoi An, and the My Son Sanctuary.
Da Nang boasts a diverse landscape of mountains, plains, and the sea. Must-visit attractions include Ba Na Hills with the famous Golden Bridge, My Khe Beach—one of the world’s most beautiful beaches—and Fantasy Park, the largest indoor amusement park in Asia. Visitors can also marvel at the majestic Hai Van Pass, explore the pristine forests of Son Tra Peninsula, or admire the mystical beauty of the Marble Mountains.
However, Da Nang’s charm extends beyond its natural wonders. The city is also a modern and dynamic urban center that hosts numerous international events. The annual International Fireworks Festival has become a symbol of the city, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Da Nang is a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. Unlike the dazzling vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City or the quiet charm of Hanoi, Da Nang offers a balanced mix of excitement and tranquility. Are you ready to dive deeper into this Da Nang travel guide?
Da Nang Travel Guide: Must-Visit Attractions
Son Tra Peninsula
Topping the list of must-visit places in Da Nang is the Son Tra Peninsula, famous for its lush forests and stunning beaches like Tien Sa, Da Den, and Bai But. Winding roads lead to breathtaking viewpoints such as Ban Co Peak, Linh Ung Pagoda, Son Tra Lighthouse, and the “Indochina Eye” radar station. This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the untouched beauty from above.
Beyond its scenic landscapes, Son Tra offers exciting activities such as scuba diving to explore coral reefs, fishing with local fishermen, and trekking through dense forests. A spiritual highlight of the peninsula is Linh Ung Pagoda, home to Vietnam’s tallest statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Son Tra is also a sanctuary for the endangered red-shanked douc langur, a rare primate that is strictly protected.
Suoi Tien (Fairy Stream)
Located within the primary forest of the Son Tra Peninsula, Suoi Tien originates from the mountain peaks, cascading through white waterfalls and uniquely shaped rock formations, creating a fairy-tale-like landscape. The gentle sound of flowing water, combined with the fragrance of blooming forest flowers, makes this place a true “heaven on earth,” offering relaxation and serenity.
Visitors to Suoi Tien can not only admire its natural beauty but also embark on a trekking journey through lush greenery. The symphony of chirping birds and the echoes of the red-shanked douc langur make for an unforgettable adventure, helping to refresh both body and mind.
Ba Na Hills
About 40 km from Da Nang’s city center, Ba Na Hills is a must-see attraction in any Da Nang travel guide. With its cool climate year-round, visitors can experience all four seasons in just one day. Key highlights include Linh Ung Pagoda, the over-100-year-old Debay Wine Cellar, the vibrant Le Jardin D’Amour flower garden, and the iconic Golden Bridge, where giant hands seemingly lift the pathway into the clouds.
For a European-style experience, visitors can stay overnight in the French Village, a luxurious and romantic retreat atop the mountain.
My Khe Beach
For those planning a beach getaway in Da Nang, My Khe Beach is the first place to visit. Named one of the “six most attractive beaches on the planet” by Forbes magazine, it was also ranked among Asia’s top 25 beaches in 2021 by TripAdvisor. Located right in the heart of Da Nang, this 900-meter-long beach boasts soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a spacious, refreshing atmosphere—perfect for relaxation.
Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy various activities such as surfing, jet skiing, canoeing, or simply waking up early to watch the sunrise and experience local fishermen’s daily routines. In addition to My Khe Beach, other famous beaches like Tien Sa and Non Nuoc are also worth exploring.
Gieng Troi (Heaven’s Well)
Hidden deep within the Ba Na–Nui Chua Nature Reserve, Gieng Troi is a paradise for adventure lovers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. With its untouched beauty, this destination attracts trekkers with activities like mountain climbing, camping, swimming in pristine streams, and embracing the surrounding wilderness.
To reach Gieng Troi, travelers must complete a challenging 7.5 km trek from the cable car station, crossing cool streams, dense forests, and steep slopes. The rugged terrain and demanding journey help preserve the site’s pristine nature. Those who brave the challenge are rewarded with a breathtaking waterfall formed by two merging streams in a secluded gorge. Immersing yourself in the refreshing water, listening to the roaring falls, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings create an unforgettable travel experience in Da Nang.
Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)
Another must-visit location in Da Nang for spiritual travelers is the Marble Mountains, located just 8 km from the city center. This cluster of five limestone hills—Kim Son, Moc Son, Thuy Son, Hoa Son, and Tho Son—is named after the five elements in ancient philosophy.
Beyond their striking appearance, the mountains are home to mysterious caves and sacred pagodas, attracting visitors for both exploration and spiritual reflection. Following the coastal road toward Hoi An, travelers can admire the grandeur of this natural wonder.
If you have extra time, exploring each mountain in the Marble Mountains will lead you to ancient temples and fascinating caves such as Quan Am Cave, Huyen Vi Cave, Am Phu Cave, Huyen Khong Cave, and Van Thong Cave. Famous pagodas like Tam Thai Pagoda, Linh Ung Pagoda, and Long Hoa Pagoda are nestled against the mountains, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere. For thrill-seekers, Van Thong Cave presents an opportunity for an adventurous rock-climbing experience.
Da Nang is truly a gem of Vietnam, seamlessly blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern vibrancy. Whether you are looking for breathtaking landscapes, spiritual sites, or exciting outdoor activities, this city has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today and experience all that Da Nang has to offer.
Before taking the trip to Da Nang, you should apply for a visa first. Feel free to contact Vietnam Visa Express for help!
