Da Nang: The Complete Guide
With its expansive beaches, amazing street food, the legendary Hai Van Pass, and an ever-growing array of cafes, restaurants, and bars, it’s no wonder the residents of Da Nang are some of the happiest in the country. The golden sands of My Khe Beach stretch southward from the mountainous Son Tra Peninsula. Da Nang is home to some of Vietnam’s top luxury resorts, yet much of the beach remains a vibrant space for locals who use it as a playground, gym, and source of livelihood.
Table of Contents
- History of Da Nang
- Early History of Da Nang
- Da Nang During the Champa Period
- Da Nang Under Vietnamese Rule
- French Colonial Era in Da Nang
- Da Nang During the Vietnam War
- Modern Development of Da Nang
- Da Nang Today
- 9 Best places to See in Da Nang
- Museum of Cham Sculpture
- Danang Cathedral
- Dragon Bridge, Da Nang
- My Khe Beach
- Marble Mountains
- Son Tra Peninsula
- Hai Van Pass
- Ba Na Hills
- My Son Sanctuary
- Where to Stay in Da Nang
- Best Time to Visit Da Nang
- Visiting Da Nang in Spring
- Visiting Da Nang in Summer
- Visiting Da Nang in Autumn
- Visiting Da Nang in Winter
- How to get to Da Nang
History of Da Nang
Early History of Da Nang
Da Nang’s history dates back to ancient times when it was a part of the Champa Kingdom, a collection of independent Cham polities that controlled much of central and southern Vietnam from approximately the 2nd century AD until the 15th century. The Cham people were known for their seafaring skills and established Da Nang as an important trading port.
Da Nang During the Champa Period
During the Champa period, Da Nang was known as Cua Han. It served as a significant hub for trade and cultural exchange between the Cham people and other civilizations, including those of India, China, and Southeast Asia. The influence of Hinduism and later Buddhism is evident in the architectural and cultural relics found in and around Da Nang.
Da Nang Under Vietnamese Rule
In the 15th century, the Vietnamese, under the expansionist policies of the Le Dynasty, gradually conquered the Champa territories, including Da Nang. By the early 19th century, under the Nguyen Dynasty, Da Nang had become an increasingly important port and trading center, known as Tourane to Western traders.
French Colonial Era in Da Nang
In the mid-19th century, Da Nang’s strategic importance grew with the arrival of the French. In 1858, French forces, along with Spanish allies, attacked Da Nang, marking the beginning of French colonial rule in Vietnam. Da Nang served as a major French naval base and was developed into a modern city with improved infrastructure and public works.
Da Nang During the Vietnam War
During the Vietnam War, Da Nang was a crucial military base for both the French and later the Americans. The city hosted a large U.S. airbase, which was one of the busiest airports in the world at the time. The war significantly impacted Da Nang, but it also laid the groundwork for future development due to the infrastructure built during this period.
Modern Development of Da Nang
In the years following the Vietnam War, Da Nang transformed from a war-torn city to a major economic and cultural hub in central Vietnam. The city’s strategic location, combined with substantial investment in infrastructure and tourism, has spurred rapid development. Today, Da Nang is known for its pristine beaches, modern bridges, and as a gateway to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Hoi An and My Son.
Da Nang Today
Today, Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s most dynamic and rapidly growing cities. It boasts a thriving tourism industry, vibrant culinary scene, and a reputation for being one of the country’s most livable cities. With its blend of historical significance and modern development, Da Nang continues to be a pivotal city in Vietnam’s cultural and economic landscape.
Visiting Da Nang for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Da Nang on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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9 Best places to See in Da Nang
This complete guide to Da Nang not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Da Nang and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Museum of Cham Sculpture
Location: Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, Đường 2 Tháng 9, Bình Hiên, Hải Châu District, Da Nang, Vietnam | Hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM | Price: 60,000 VND per person | Distance: 2.8km
Visiting Museum of Cham Sculpture
Danang Cathedral
Location: 156 Trần Phú, Hải Châu I, Hải Châu District, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam | Hours: Weekdays: 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM Sundays: 5:15 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:30 PM Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended | Distance: 3.1km
Visiting Danang Cathedral
Dragon Bridge, Da Nang
Location: Dragon Bridge, Cầu Rồng, An Hải, An Hải Tây, Sơn Trà, Da Nang, Vietnam | Distance: 3.4km
Visiting Dragon Bridge, Da Nang
My Khe Beach
Location: My Khe Beach, Da Nang, Vietnam | Distance: 5.2km
Visiting My Khe Beach
Marble Mountains
Location: Marble Mountains, Huyền Trân Công Chúa, Hoa Hai, Ngũ Hành Sơn, Da Nang, Vietnam | Distance: 8.7km
Visiting Marble Mountains
Son Tra Peninsula
Location: Lady Buddha Vườn Lâm Tỳ Ni, Hoàng Sa Thọ Quang Sơn Trà Đà Nẵng, Vietnam | Distance: 9.9km
Visiting Son Tra Peninsula
Hai Van Pass
Location: Hải Vân Pass, Lăng Cô, Phú Lộc, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam | Distance: 18.1km
Visiting Hai Van Pass
Ba Na Hills
Location: Ba Na Hills, Thôn An Sơn, Hòa Ninh, Hòa Vang, Da Nang, Vietnam | Distance: 22.6km
Visiting Ba Na Hills
My Son Sanctuary
Location: My Son Sanctuary, Duy Phú, Duy Xuyên District, Quảng Nam, Vietnam | Hours: 6am – 5pm | Price: 150 000 VND ($ 6.7 USD) | Distance: 32.2km
Visiting My Son Sanctuary
Where to Stay in Da Nang
The best area to stay is along My Khe Beach, where modern resorts and boutique hotels offer stunning ocean views and easy access to the coastline. For a more local experience, staying in the city center near the Han River provides proximity to markets, nightlife, and cultural attractions like the Dragon Bridge.
A 3 to 4-day stay allows time to explore the beaches, Marble Mountains, and nearby Hoi An. A 5 to 6-day stay is ideal for visiting Ba Na Hills, the Hai Van Pass, and day trips to Hue or the Son Tra Peninsula.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Da Nang. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Da Nang Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Da Nang
Visiting Da Nang in Spring
Spring is an ideal time to visit Da Nang. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring the city’s beaches, outdoor markets, and nearby attractions. Spring also brings vibrant festivals and events, adding to the cultural experience.
Visiting Da Nang in Summer
Summer in Da Nang is characterized by hot and humid weather, ideal for beach activities and water sports. This season is popular among tourists for its sunny days and lively atmosphere. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Visiting Da Nang in Autumn
Autumn is a great time to visit Da Nang, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. The city’s natural beauty is highlighted by clear skies and calm seas, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This season is also less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience.
Visiting Da Nang in Winter
Winter in Da Nang is mild and comfortable, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. This season is perfect for those who prefer a quieter visit, as there are fewer tourists. Winter offers a great opportunity to explore the city’s cultural and historical sites without the summer crowds.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 23°C 77°F
- February 26°C 82°F
- March 28°C 85°F
- April 30°C 90°F
- May 31°C 92°F
- June 29°C 93°F
- July 31°C 92°F
- August 31°C 92°F
- September 30°C 90°F
- October 27°C 85°F
- November 26°C 82°F
- December 24°C 78°F
How to get to Da Nang
By Air
Traveling to Da Nang by air is the most convenient option. Da Nang International Airport is well-connected with major cities in Vietnam, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as several international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation.
By Train
You can reach Da Nang by train, which offers a scenic journey along the Reunification Express line that runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Da Nang Railway Station is centrally located, making it easy to access the city from there.
By Bus
Buses are another way to travel to Da Nang. Several bus companies operate routes from cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and nearby Hoi An. The bus journey provides an economical option for travelers.
By Car
Driving to Da Nang is possible if you prefer a road trip. The city is accessible via National Highway 1A, which runs the length of Vietnam. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Da Nang and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
By Motorcycle
For the more adventurous traveler, renting a motorcycle is a popular way to travel to Da Nang, especially from nearby cities like Hoi An or Hue. This mode of travel allows for a more immersive experience of the Vietnamese countryside.
