Dragon Bridge, Da Nang

Bridge in Da Nang

Dragon Bridge Da Nang
Dragon Bridge Da Nang

The Dragon Bridge stands proudly over the Han River as one of the top attractions in Da Nang, blending traditional symbolism with striking modern engineering. Designed in the shape of a majestic dragon from Vietnamese mythology, it represents power, prosperity, and the city's forward-looking vision. It is often visited on tour around Da Nang thanks to its central location, dramatic river views, and the unforgettable weekend fire show that draws crowds from across the city.

What makes this landmark truly stand out is how alive it feels at night. As darkness falls, thousands of LED lights illuminate the dragon's scales in glowing colours before it unleashes bursts of fire and water during scheduled shows. This spot is one of the best places to see in Da Nang for travellers who love atmospheric evenings and memorable cityscapes. Whether you watch from the riverbanks, a rooftop bar, or the nearby bridges, the scene is one you won't forget.

History and Significance of The Dragon Bridge

Completed in 2013, the Dragon Bridge is part of Da Nang's bold push to reinvent itself as a dynamic coastal city. Its dragon form is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, symbolising luck and vitality, while its design reflects the city's desire to blend heritage with innovation. When it opened, it immediately became a source of pride for locals and a new icon for the region.

The construction of the bridge marked an important chapter in Da Nang’s urban development. It improved traffic flow between the airport, the city centre, and the beaches, transforming mobility across the city. Today, it is not just a key infrastructure project but a cultural stage where locals gather to celebrate holidays, weekend evenings, and festivals. Its fire and water displays have become a signature attraction, creating communal moments of joy along the river.

Things to See and Do in The Dragon Bridge

The highlight for most visitors is the weekend fire and water show, usually held on Saturday and Sunday evenings. During this spectacle, the dragon roars to life, shooting flames into the night sky followed by powerful jets of water. Crowds line the riverbanks, creating a vibrant atmosphere as music, chatter, and camera flashes fill the air. Watching this display mirrored in the Han River is an unforgettable experience.

During the day, the bridge is perfect for a stroll or for capturing photos of the dragon's long, sinuous body stretching across the water. Many visitors pair their walk with a visit to the lively riverside promenade, full of cafes, street food vendors, and open spaces to relax. At night, the LED lights turn the bridge into a glowing sculpture, making it one of the must-see places in Da Nang for photography enthusiasts and couples seeking a scenic evening spot.

Surrounding viewpoints add to the experience. From Tran Thi Ly Bridge to nearby rooftop lounges, multiple angles offer beautiful perspectives of the Dragon Bridge. This flexibility makes it easy to include the bridge in an evening of exploring Da Nang's nightlife, dining, or river cruises.

How to Get to The Dragon Bridge

The Dragon Bridge is centrally located in Da Nang, making it one of the easiest landmarks to reach. The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport, just a short drive from the city centre and the bridge area. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Da Nang on Booking.com.

Travellers arriving by train can reach the Dragon Bridge easily from Da Nang Railway Station by taxi, motorbike taxi, or ride-hailing services. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Traveling by car is straightforward, with numerous routes leading to both sides of the riverfront and ample nearby parking, especially around the waterfront roads and local cafes.

Practical Tips on Visiting The Dragon Bridge

  • Best time to visit The Dragon Bridge: Weekend evenings during the fire and water show.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free to visit.
  • Opening hours: The bridge is open all day; fire shows usually occur around 9 pm on weekends.
  • Official website: Information is available through Da Nang tourism sites.
  • How long to spend: 1-2 hours is perfect, especially if staying for the show.
  • Accessibility: The riverfront paths are mostly flat and easy to navigate.
  • Facilities: Nearby cafes, restaurants, toilets, and wide pedestrian areas.
  • Photography tip: Shoot from the riverbanks for reflections or from nearby bridges for dramatic angles.
  • Guided tours: Some city tours include the Dragon Bridge in evening itineraries.
  • Nearby food options: Riverside eateries, night markets, and cafes offer great pre-show dining.

Where to Stay close to The Dragon Bridge

Staying near the Dragon Bridge places you right in the heart of Da Nang's lively riverfront district. For river views and quick access to the bridge, Novotel Danang Premier Han River is a convenient and comfortable choice. Travellers wanting stylish, modern rooms steps from the action may enjoy Brilliant Hotel, well known for its rooftop bar overlooking the river. For those seeking affordability without sacrificing location, Vanda Hotel sits just a short walk from the dragon’s head and offers excellent value.

Is The Dragon Bridge Worth Visiting?

The Dragon Bridge is absolutely worth visiting, especially for travellers who enjoy memorable cityscapes, energetic public spaces, and unique cultural experiences. The weekend fire and water show alone makes it a standout attraction, while the river views and illuminated night scenery help create a vivid impression of Da Nang's modern character. Whether you're strolling along the river or taking photos from afar, the Dragon Bridge is an essential part of any visit to the city.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (6,390)

Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng) spans the river in Đà Nẵng as a striking golden dragon: impressive by day and transformed at night by colorful lights. On weekend evenings the dragon performs a short fire-and-water show that draws crowds — best viewed from a distance to see the whole bridge or from riverside spots secured well before the start; expect spray if you stand close and heavy crowds around showtime. The bridge is open 24 hours and sits near cafes, night markets and other attractions, making it an easy addition to an evening riverside walk or itinerary.

Tasha (AutismFamilyTravelGuide)
2 weeks ago
"Dragon Bridge — Cầu Rồng — is one of Đà Nẵng’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s impossible to miss its bright golden dragon stretching proudly acrossthe river. By day, it’s a striking piece of architecture, but by night it becomes a real spectacle, glowing with colourful lights that reflect beautifully on the water. If you’re in Đà Nẵng on a weekend, the highlight is the dragon’s fire and water show, usually on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Crowds gather to watch the dragon breathe real flames and spray water — a fun, lively experience for families, couples, and anyone seeing the city for the first time. The bridge is perfectly placed for a riverside walk, with easy access to cafés, night markets, and viewpoints along both sides of the river. Whether you cross it on foot, drive over it, or admire it from below, it’s a must-see symbol of Đà Nẵng’s modern, energetic spirit...."
Christoper James Sumpit
2 weeks ago
"One of the icons of Da Nang. It has a fire and water show every weekends on 9pm. I wouldn't say that it's a must see, don't fret yourself if you'reonly at Da Nang during the weekdays, the city has other beautiful places to see and go to. But if you're at the city during the weekends then it wouldn't hurt to see the show. The show looks more better from a distance, because if you're close then you wouldn't see the whole bridge. If you're going to watch it up close I suggest you bring an umbrella since you'll be within the spray area of the water. You can wait until the show starts at the nearby Son Tra market. Have di er or buy merchandise there, then make your way towards the bridge 5 to 7 minutes before the show starts so you can secure a spot...."
SURAJ DAS
2 months ago
"Dragon Bridge, Da Nang The bridge is open all days 24 hours. But the fire and water show only happens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It startsaround 9pm which lasted for 7-8 min. But I will recommend to be there one hour before and find yourself a suitable place or else if you are late, you won't a good place to watch the show. Either it be too far or you won't enjoy much. Remember the place will be lot crowded and the crowd will start around 8:30. So before 8 will recommend to have something so that you are full and have enough energy to stand for an hour. After the show also you won't find cab easily, mostly will have to walk down the bridge. In evening you can enjoy the market beside dragon bridge. Since I am vegan, there were very less item that I could enjoy. But one thing I will recommend to have the banana crepe with Nutella and cheese. I also tried salt coffee, but didn't like it that much. There are many shops there, did plenty of shopping. If you are foreigners they will try to charge more, you can do a reasonable bargain. They also need to make profit...."

FAQs for Visiting The Dragon Bridge

It usually takes place at around 9 pm on Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Yes, the fire and water show is completely free to enjoy.
Most visitors gather near the dragon’s head on the eastern side of the bridge, though riverside cafes also offer good views.
The bridge often restricts vehicle movement briefly during the performance for safety.
Yes, but it can get crowded, so keep a close watch near the riverside.

Nearby Attractions to The Dragon Bridge

  • Han Market: A bustling local market known for souvenirs, spices, and street food.
  • Tran Thi Ly Bridge: A modern cable-stayed bridge offering beautiful evening views.
  • Cham Museum: Home to an impressive collection of Cham sculptures and cultural artefacts.
  • My Khe Beach: A wide, sandy beach perfect for relaxing after exploring the city.
  • Da Nang Cathedral: A pink Gothic-style church dating from 1923, loved for its unique architecture.

The Dragon Bridge appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Dragon Bridge, Cầu Rồng, An Hải, An Hải Tây, Sơn Trà, Da Nang, Vietnam
Da Nang: 3 km

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