Da Nang central Vietnam: An all-in-one travel guide for travelers

Tuesday, Oct 14, 2025 18:00
Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, is famous for its stunning beaches, unique bridges, and rich culinary scene. This travel guide will help you fully explore its attractions, savor signature dishes, and enjoy memorable experiences in Da Nang.

Located along Vietnam’s central coastline, Da Nang is a captivating destination famed for its natural wonders, ancient sites, and lively markets. Visitors can enjoy countless experiences that leave lasting memories.

Where is Da Nang Vietnam located?

Da Nang is located in Central Vietnam, approximately 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City.

To the east, the city is bordered by the South China Sea, boasting a long and beautiful coastline famous for its stunning beaches. To the west and south, it borders Quang Nam province (which merged with Da Nang on July 1, 2025), home to two World Cultural Heritage sites: Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary. To the north, it's adjacent to Thua Thien Hue, a region known for its serene and ancient imperial capital.

This unique location makes Da Nang an ideal hub, forming one of Central Vietnam's most attractive tourism triangles.

Da Nang is located in Central Vietnam, approximately 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City (Photo: Google Maps screenshot)
Da Nang is located in Central Vietnam, approximately 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City (Photo: Google Maps screenshot)

Weather in Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang’s weather is shaped by a tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures and only slight seasonal changes. The city’s average annual temperature is around 25.6°C, reaching its highest in 06 (29.2°C) and dropping to the lowest in 02 (21.2°C). Humidity averages 83.4% year-round, and the city receives about 1,355 millimeters of rainfall annually.

The best time to visit Da Nang depends on the type of experience you want: 

  • Late December to late March: This period offers cool and pleasant weather with occasional light spring rains. It is an excellent time for family vacations, romantic trips, or casual getaways with friends. Travel costs such as hotels and dining are generally stable and affordable.
  • Early April to mid September: The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures of 28 to 30°C. This is the best time for beach lovers and resort stays. Rainfall is minimal, creating perfect conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. As it is the peak season, Da Nang feels lively and bustling with tourists.
  • Mid September to late December: The climate shifts from the heat of summer to cooler and wetter days. Short showers are common but rarely disrupt travel plans. This season often comes with discounts and travel promotions, making it a budget friendly opportunity to experience Da Nang.
Weather in Da Nang, Vietnam (Source: Internet)
Weather in Da Nang, Vietnam (Source: Internet)

Means of transportation when traveling to Da Nang

How to Get to Da Nang

By Air: Da Nang International Airport serves as a key gateway, offering 39 international flights and 10 domestic routes. Known for its high-quality service, the airport meets strict safety and health standards, providing travelers with a convenient and comfortable experience.

By Train: Da Nang Railway Station lies on the North–South line, making travel from Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, or Ho Chi Minh City easy. A train journey allows visitors to enjoy scenic views of the Hai Van Pass, the central coast, and many other beautiful natural landscapes.

By Sea: Tien Sa Port is a versatile seaport that handles both cargo and tourism. It can accommodate large cruise ships, facilitating trips to explore the islands and coastal areas around Da Nang.

Máy bay là phương tiện di chuyển phổ biến của khách du lịch (Source: Internet)
Máy bay là phương tiện di chuyển phổ biến của khách du lịch (Source: Internet)

Getting Around in Da Nang

Motorbike: Many travelers choose motorbikes for their affordability and flexibility. Renting a motorbike makes it easy to explore attractions on your own schedule, from the city center to the outskirts.

Taxi: Ideal for families or larger groups, taxis are widely available in Da Nang, offering convenience and quick transportation.

Bus: With fares ranging from only 7,000 to 20,000 VND per ride, public buses are a budget-friendly option. Routes connect many areas in the city, making it easy for visitors to reach major tourist spots at a low cost.

Famous attractions in Da Nang

Ba Na Hills

Located about 25 km from the city center, Ba Na Hills has long been a must-visit destination when traveling to Da Nang. Situated nearly 1,500 meters above sea level, it offers cool weather year-round and picturesque landscapes, often described as a “heaven on earth.”

Visitors can experience a world-record-breaking cable car system, admire the romantic French Village, explore the Debay Wine Cellar, or have fun at Fantasy Park. Notably, the Golden Bridge, supported by two giant stone hands lifting the walkway amidst the clouds, has become an iconic symbol of Vietnam on the international tourism map.

Ba Na Hills (Source: Internet)
Ba Na Hills (Source: Internet)

Son Tra Peninsula

About 10 km from downtown Da Nang, Son Tra Peninsula stands out as a natural treasure with its diverse primary forest ecosystem and is home to the rare red-shanked douc langur. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking to explore pristine beauty.

At Son Tra, visitors can pay respects at Linh Ung Pagoda with the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue overlooking the East Sea, enjoy panoramic city views from Ban Co Peak, or relax on peaceful beaches such as Bai Rang, Bai Bac, and Bai Nam.

Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)

Located around 8 km southeast of the city center, Marble Mountains is a famous scenic spot consisting of five limestone hills representing the Five Elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. Besides its mystical natural beauty, it holds significant cultural and spiritual value.

Visitors can explore enchanting caves such as Huyen Khong and Am Phu, visit the sacred Linh Ung Non Nuoc Pagoda, and learn about the Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, which preserves centuries-old traditional craftsmanship.

Marble Mountains (Source: Internet)
Marble Mountains (Source: Internet)

My Khe Beach

Voted by Forbes in 2005 as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, My Khe Beach has long been a symbol of Da Nang’s coastal tourism. With over 900 meters of fine white sand, clear blue waters, and gentle waves, it is perfect for swimming and water sports such as surfing, SUP, and snorkeling.

In addition to its natural beauty, My Khe is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to reach other attractions. Its modern beachfront hotels, resorts, and diverse dining options also make it a favorite stop for both domestic and international tourists.

My Khe Beach (Source: Internet)
My Khe Beach (Source: Internet)

Nam O Reef

Located about 17 km northwest of the city center, Nam O Reef is famous for its pristine and unique scenery. The reef stretches hundreds of meters with countless rocks covered in green moss, creating a magical landscape, especially beautiful during the moss season from February to April.

It is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and those wanting to immerse themselves in nature. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling, fishing with local fishermen, or tasting the fresh seafood specialties of Nam O’s coastal area.

Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge, one of Da Nang’s iconic architectural landmarks, spans the Han River at 666 meters long. Its design mimics a dragon soaring toward the East Sea, making it both an important transport route and a popular photo spot.

A special highlight is the fire and water show on weekend evenings, attracting crowds of locals and tourists. With LED lights that change colors at night, the bridge adds a modern, vibrant touch to the coastal city.

Dragon Bridge (Source: Internet)
Dragon Bridge (Source: Internet)

Hoa Trung Lake

Located about 20 km west of Da Nang, Hoa Trung Lake is a relatively new but increasingly popular destination. This large artificial lake is surrounded by rolling mountains, creating a picturesque landscape reminiscent of a green meadow.

What food is Da Nang known for?

Mi Quang: This is Da Nang’s most famous specialty. Mi Quang features chewy noodles in a rich, flavorful broth, served with chicken, shrimp, snakehead fish, or pork, accompanied by fresh herbs and crispy rice crackers. The dish is simple yet full of flavor, reflecting the subtlety of Central Vietnamese cuisine.

Mi Quang (Source: Internet)
Mi Quang (Source: Internet)

Banh trang cuon thit heo (Rice Paper Rolls With Pork): This dish impresses with tender boiled pork belly slices, rolled in thin, pliable rice paper with fresh herbs, and dipped in a rich, savory fermented fish sauce. It is a light yet nutritious dish, beloved by many visitors.

Banh xeo: Central Vietnamese banh xeo is thin and crispy, filled with a variety of ingredients like shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and a sweet-sour fish sauce, offering a deliciously traditional and easy-to-enjoy culinary experience.

Banh xeo (Source: Internet)
Banh xeo (Source: Internet)

Bun cha ca (Fish Cake Noodle Soup): Da Nang’s bun cha ca stands out for its clear, subtly sweet broth and chewy fish cakes, served with soft noodles and aromatic herbs. It is a perfect choice for a light breakfast or lunch.

Fresh Seafood: Da Nang is renowned for its fresh seafood such as shrimp, crab, squid, and fish, prepared on the spot to preserve their natural sweetness. My Khe Beach and the riverside restaurants along the Han River are ideal spots to enjoy these delicacies.

With this Da Nang travel guide, you can plan a well-organized itinerary to enjoy everything the city has to offer, from its stunning beaches and unique bridges to its rich culinary scene. Start planning now to experience the vibrant and unforgettable charm of central Vietnam.

>> Find more travel tips and destination ideas in our Travel guide.