Top 25 Must-Do Activities in Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang is frequently overlooked when travelers plan a trip to Vietnam, which is unfortunate given the plethora of attractions and activities available. As the third largest city in Vietnam, it presents visitors with a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance and traditional charm. When visiting Da Nang, one can appreciate an innovative skyline alongside a tranquil riverside promenade, complemented by stunning sandy beaches.

A significant appeal of Da Nang lies in its coastal location, providing access to an extensive stretch of sandy beaches and the opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside. Here, visitors can participate in various water sports or indulge in mountain hiking, along with visits to vibrant amusement parks and museums. Furthermore, the region boasts historical sites, including ancient temples and crumbling ruins.

Below are the top attractions to explore in Da Nang:

1. Visit the Ba Na Hills

The Ba Na Hills stand as one of the premier attractions in Da Nang, drawing visitors from across the region to enjoy the cooler temperatures afforded by its elevation.

At the summit, breathtaking views extend to the sea, with a cable car available for those preferring a more leisurely ascent.

The Ba Na Hill Fantasy Park offers a multitude of entertainment zones as well as a wax museum housing figures of famous celebrities.

2. Have a coffee at Cong Caphe

Similar to Hanoi’s multitude of Communist-themed coffee shops, Cong Caphe distinguishes itself in Da Nang.

This establishment ranks among the finest locales for a coffee experience in the city, situated by the river, offering picturesque views over the water.

For a unique treat, try their signature drink, which combines coffee with yogurt.

3. Sunbathe on My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach is considered one of Vietnam’s most stunning beaches, extending approximately 20 miles along Da Nang’s eastern coastline.

Visitors can engage in various activities including water sports, jet skiing, and surfing.

For relaxation, sunbathing on the golden sand or snorkeling is recommended, along with numerous seafood restaurants lining the beach.

4. Climb the Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains actually refer to a group of five separate limestone hills intertwined with smooth marble.

Located approximately 9 kilometers from Da Nang, these mountains are renowned for their Buddhist pagodas and shrines dedicated to various local divinities.

Visitors can traverse the hills via a series of steps carved into the mountainside, providing remarkable views of the surrounding countryside.

5. Watch the show at Dragon Bridge

The prominent attraction in the heart of Da Nang is the impressive Dragon Bridge, measuring a remarkable 666 meters in length, making it the longest bridge of its kind in Vietnam.

The bridge, designed in the shape of a dragon, symbolizes good fortune in Vietnamese culture.

Every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM, visitors can stroll to the waterfront to witness a spectacular display featuring illuminated lights and fire and water emitted from the dragon.

6. Visit the Cham Museum

Many travelers may be unaware of Da Nang’s rich array of museums, notably the Cham Museum, which provides insight into the Cham civilization in Vietnam.

Notably, it is the only Cham museum globally, having first opened its doors in 1915 during the French colonial era.

Exhibits featuring terracotta and stone artifacts from the 7th to the 15th centuries can be found here.

7. Enjoy the views at the Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is among the top attractions in this region of Vietnam, situated approximately 500 meters above sea level.

This elevation makes it the highest pass of its kind in Vietnam, offering panoramic vistas of Da Nang.

Along the route, visitors can encounter historical markers, including a fort constructed during the French colonial period, which also served as a bunker during the Vietnam War for American and South Vietnamese forces.

8. Travel to Son Tra Mountain

Son Tra Mountain, also referred to as Monkey Mountain, is part of a spectacular national park in Da Nang, located around 700 meters above sea level.

This area, known as the Son Tra Peninsula, features winding roads ideal for hiking and cycling.

The mountain is home to a rare species of monkey known as the red face monkey.

9. Play a game of golf

Da Nang has gained recognition in recent years for its picturesque golf courses.

There are four primary courses in the city, including the Da Nang Golf Club, which opened in 2010 and has been recognized as one of the top 15 new golf courses globally.

Consequently, visitors can enjoy a round of golf while surrounded by lush landscapes extending to pristine sandy beaches.

10. Check out the Linh Ung Pagoda

The Linh Ung Pagoda, located at Son Tra Mountain, is one of the region’s standout attractions.

This pagoda is recognized for housing the tallest statues of the Goddess of Mercy locally, situated on a platform shaped like a blooming lotus.

Additionally, it features 21 statues of Buddha within a 67-meter tall Buddha figure.

11. Relax at Non Nuoc Beach

For a brief retreat from the city, Non Nuoc Beach, approximately a 20-minute drive from central Da Nang, is highly recommended.

Regularly recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, it boasts soft white sands adjacent to clear azure waters.

Key activities include surfing and jet skiing, alongside a wealth of seafood dining options.

The beach stretches for 5 kilometers along the coast, leading directly to the base of the Marble Mountains.

12. Admire the Phap Lam Pagoda

Phap Lam Pagoda features a two-story structure surrounded by lush gardens embellished with Buddha sculptures.

Recognized for its tranquil atmosphere, a central courtyard houses a 1.1-meter tall Buddha statue.

The area also displays statues of the Goddess of Mercy and the Dai The Chi Bodhisattva, along with food stalls offering delicious vegetarian options.

13. Visit the Da Nang Cathedral

The Da Nang Cathedral is one of Vietnam’s most prominent Catholic churches, distinguished by its remarkable architectural features.

The iconic pink facade, vibrant stained-glass windows, and towering bell tower topped by a rooster-shaped weathervane are noteworthy.

Constructed in 1923, it is colloquially referred to as Con Ga or the Rooster Church.

14. Take a trip to the Cham Islands

For those looking to escape Da Nang’s bustling city life, a visit to the picturesque Cham Islands is recommended.

The islands host vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Located approximately an hour by boat from Da Nang, these islands make for an easy day trip or offer options for overnight camping.

15. Go shopping at Con Market

While the name Con Market may not seem alluring, it boasts around 2,000 shops offering a diverse range of goods.

Shoppers can find clothing, footwear, and unique handicrafts, making it an excellent location to acquire gifts or souvenirs.

The market, established in the 1940s and renovated in 1984, is popular among locals and visitors for both shopping and sampling street food from various vendors.

16. Stroll along the sand at Pham Van Dong Beach

Another well-known beach in Da Nang is Pham Van Dong Beach.

This location has served as the backdrop for numerous film shoots, underscoring its pristine beauty.

The soft sand invites leisurely strolls along the shoreline, and visitors will find several resorts and restaurants nearby, perfect for swimming in gentle waters.

17. Learn some history at the Fifth Military Division Museum

The Fifth Military Division Museum in Da Nang immerses visitors in the harrowing history of Vietnam’s experience during the Vietnam War.

Exhibiting various antiques and memorabilia, including letters and photographs taken by Fifth Division soldiers, the museum spans extensive grounds divided into four main sections.

Signature pieces include a Cessna O-1 Bird and an A-37 Dragonfly fighter plane.

18. Travel to My Son Sanctuary

My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, composed of stunning ruins that once served as the heart of the formidable Champa Kingdom.

The architecture spans eight centuries, showcasing remarkable carvings, stone pillars, and impressive structures.

A guided tour provides insight into the history and significance of this extraordinary monument.

19. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum

Set amidst lush grounds, the Ho Chi Minh Museum in Da Nang offers a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam’s leader.

The galleries feature collections of Soviet and Chinese weaponry, shedding light on Vietnam’s military history.

Visitors will discover multiple buildings, including a model of Ho Chi Minh’s house in Hanoi and adjacent exhibition areas.

20. Check out the Han River Bridge

The Han River Bridge is one of the four primary bridges in Da Nang, recognized as a key attraction for those visiting the city.

This cable-supported swing bridge is the first of its design in the region.

Visitors are drawn to the bridge at night, as it dazzles with colorful illumination; around midnight, the bridge swings open, allowing ships to pass, creating a captivating spectacle.

For a different perspective, consider taking a river cruise along the Han River.

21. Visit Asia Park

If you are looking to venture out from Da Nang, Asia Park, located along the coast, is a large amusement and cultural facility.

The park comprises three zones, featuring an Amusement Park, a Cultural Park, and a Central Zone.

Among its highlights is the impressive Sun Wheel, reaching a height of 115 meters, serving as a clock tower displaying time zones from around the world.

Visitors can also partake in rides, shows, and a variety of adventure activities.

22. Go surfing

For those eager to catch waves on a surfboard in Vietnam, Da Nang is an excellent choice.

The surf conditions along Da Nang’s coast cater to both novice and experienced surfers.

Surfing is possible throughout the year, although the main surf season occurs from November to March.

The prime spots to rent surfboards are China Beach and My Khe Beach, with surf schools available for beginners.

23. Have a drink at Waterfront

For those seeking spectacular river views in Da Nang, Waterfront is the perfect riverside lounge and restaurant.

Here, visitors can enjoy refreshments while admiring the sunset and take advantage of a broad menu that includes local and international dishes.

This venue is also suitable for those interested in vegetarian options.

24. Visit the Cao Dai Temple

The Cao Dai Temple in Da Nang is the largest of its kind in Vietnam, claimed to have around 50,000 adherents.

A notable sign within the temple states, ‘All Religions Have the Same Reason,’ featuring statues of significant figures from the main five world religions.

This includes depictions of Jesus, Mohammed, Laotse, Buddha, and Confucius, as well as a large altar containing a globe known as the Divine Eye.

25. Party at Sky 36

While Da Nang may not be known for its nightlife, visitors looking for an enjoyable evening should consider Sky 36, a trendy rooftop bar boasting panoramic views of the charming Da Nang River and the city’s famous illuminated bridges.

The venue has a smart-casual dress code, offering an enticing selection of cocktails and delectable bar snacks.

Overall, if you wish to enjoy a drink with the finest vistas of the city, Sky 36 is the ideal choice.