Unique Things To Do In Danang, Vietnam
This blog post is about all the things to see and activities to expect in Danang, Vietnam’s third-largest city and one of its busiest cruise ports, but Da Nang is more than just an urban center.
Located 479 miles (770 kilometers) south of Hanoi and 528 miles (850 kilometers) north of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang oozes character, from its French colonial architecture to its lively night markets, the amazing My khe beach and atmospheric Han riverfront, lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
It’s easy to take in the top attractions in a day, touring the Museum of Cham Sculpture, posing for photos by the Lady Buddha statue, and admiring Dragon Bridge, which is dramatically illuminated at night.
The 15 Best Things to do in Danang (Attractions & Activities)
Guided tours that combine popular sights like these save you the headache of navigating from one attraction to the next. You can even make it out to the jagged peaks of the Marble Mountains, which keep watch over the city’s southern border, on a day trip.
Equally enticing are the sandy shores of My Khe beach and Non Nuoc beach. Just beyond the city, the Son Tra Peninsula harbors natural wonders such as Monkey Mountain and Lang Co beach, as well as Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most memorable coastal drives, and motorbike tours give you the thrilling option to experience it the local way.
A little farther afield, the majestic My Son Sanctuary and the forested hills of Bach Ma National Park abound with photo opportunities, while neighboring Hoi An is renowned for its atmospheric ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enough said, let’s dig to find out what to do in Danang, during the day and night.
1. Marble Mountains
One of Da Nang’s best places to see, the five limestone hills that make up Vietnam’s famed Marble Mountains are each named after one of the five elements: fire (Hoa), wood (Moc), metal (Kim), water (Thuy) and earth (Tho).
And while their shadowy caves and hidden tunnels draw hundreds of travelers to visit it each day, its proximity to beautiful and ancient Buddhist and Hindu grottoes and access to a stunning summit are other reasons to make the voyage.
81 Huyen Trân Công Chúa, Hoà Hai, Da Nang, Ngũ Hành Son, 550000
2. Lady Buddha
Impossible to miss, Lady Buddha dominates the landscape of Da Nang. The marble statue, perched on the side of Monkey Mountain and visible from nearly anywhere in the city, stands 220 feet (67 meters) tall and measures 56 feet (17 meters) in diameter.
Inside the statue, a flight of stairs leads up to 17 floors, each representing a different aspect of the Buddha.The name Lady Buddha is a bit deceiving. The statue in fact depicts Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy can be found in coastal areas throughout Asia, as she is believed to bring calm to the sea.
Vuòn Lâm Tỳ Ni, Hoàng Sa, Da Nang, Son Trà, 550000
3. Son Tra Mountain (Monkey Mountain)
American soldiers stationed near Son Tra Mountain during the Vietnam War gave it the nickname Monkey Mountain after the troops of monkeys that dwell in the jungle-covered cliffs.
On the way up the 2,790-foot (850-meter) peak, you find Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the Lady Buddha statue.
Da Nang, Son Trà, 550000
4. Dragon Bridge (Cau Rong)
One of Da Nang’s more unusual and unexpected attractions is a bridge in the likeness of a dragon spanning the River Han. If the golden dragon slithering across the water isn’t impressive enough, on weekend evenings its body is illuminated by 2,500 LED lights and its head spouts fire and water over the river’s eastern bank.
Opened in 2013, the Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng) carries a six-lane roadway and two sidewalks over the river. The bridge measures 2,000 feet (610 meters) long and 123 feet (37.5 meters) wide. As the shortest road link between the Da Nang International Airport and the bulk of Da Nang city center, visitors arriving or departing by air often pass over this bridge.
27 Cau Rong, An Hai Trung, Da Nang, Son Trà, 550000
5. My Khe Beach
There are an abundance of accommodation, food, and retail outlets in the area, as well as places to hire surf and snorkel equipment. Check out best beaches in Vietnam
Da Nang, 550000
6. Linh Ung Pagoda
Hòn Thuy Son, Hoà Hai, Da Nang, Ngũ Hành Son, 550000 (40km fro Hoi An)
7. Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture
An open-air colonial building in Da Nang is home to the largest collection of Cham carvings in the world to see.
The Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture opened its first gallery in 1919, and in the decades since, the collection has grown to include more than 300 pieces. Many of these terra cotta, sandstone and bronze sculptures and artifacts depict Hindu deities, as well as linga and yoni.
Among the museum’s most important items are the sandstone pieces — statues of gods and animals, pedestals and other decorative items taken from Cham temples. The museum also has an exhibit on modern Cham culture, which includes photographs, clothing and film clips. The museum is open daily from 07:00 AM to 05:30 PM.
So 02 D. 2 Tháng 9 St., Bình Hiên, Da Nang, Hai Châu, 550000
8. Hai Van Pass (Deo Hai Van)
This is a must do activity while in Danang. Stretching across the rugged spine of the Truong Son mountain range, the Hai Van Pass (Đèo Hải Vân—meaning “Ocean Cloud Pass”) is one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking coastal routes.
Located about 30 km (19 miles) north of Da Nang and roughly 65 km (40 miles) from Hoi An, this dramatic mountain road winds its way up to 495 meters (1,627 feet) above sea level. As it snakes along the cliffs between the South Vietnam Sea and forested peaks, the pass offers panoramic views, mist-shrouded curves, and a timeless sense of adventure that draws travelers and motorbike enthusiasts alike.
Hai Van Pass, Lang Cô, Phú Lộc, Thua Thien Hue
9. Sun World Danang Wonders
A favorite for families visiting central Vietnam, Sun World Danang Wonders is a vibrant theme park nestled along the banks of the Han River in Da Nang. Perfect for a day out with kids, the park blends thrilling rides—like roller coasters, carousels, and drop towers—with a giant observation wheel that lights up spectacularly at night.
What makes it truly unique is its cultural park, where you can stroll past scale replicas of iconic Asian landmarks and experience local architectural styles and traditions. It’s not just fun—it’s a colorful journey through culture, especially magical after sunset when the park glows with lights and energy.
1 Phan Dang Luu, Hoà Cuòng Bac, Da Nang, Hai Châu
10. Non Nuoc Beach
Located on the coast about halfway between Danang and Hoi An sits Non Nuoc Beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam if not the world.
With the Son Tra Peninsula to the north and the Marble Mountains to the west, this white sand expanse has transformed from a former fishing beach to a resort area lined by five star hotels and resorts. While Non Nuoc Beach itself measures about 3 miles (5 kilometers) in length, the sand stretches for miles in either direction. That means the beach is rarely crowded, and with a short walk, it’s possible to have a stretch of sand all to yourself.
Hoà Hai, Da Nang, Ngu Hanh Son, 550000
11. Ba Na Hills
One of Da Nang’s most unique attractions, Ba Na Hills is a one-of-a-kind destination that blends natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and theme park thrills—all in one unforgettable day trip.
A visit here is packed with activities: walk across the iconic Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands, explore the whimsical French Village, and take in sweeping mountain views from one of Asia’s longest cable cars.
Thôn An Sơn, Hòa Vang, Vietnam
12. Son Tra Night Market
For a unique, or more local nighttime activity in Danang, Son Tra Night Market is a lively attraction where local flavor meets vibrant street life.
This is the perfect spot to dive into Da Nang’s food scene—whether you’re feeling curious with grilled stingray or sizzling snails, or keeping it classic with bowls of noodle soup and fried rice. Beyond the local foods, the market is full of energy, with souvenir stalls, street performers, and even quick head or foot massages on offer. It’s an authentic, hands-on experience that captures the spirit of the city after dark.
Thôn An Sơn, Hòa Vang, Vietnam
13. Cu Lao Cham (Best for a day trip)
It’s the perfect place for nature lovers and anyone wondering what to do beyond the city. Activities include snorkeling, swimming, and boat tours, but there’s more—wander through tranquil fishing villages, experience local island culture, and visit attractions like the ancient Cham well, Eo Gio (Wind Strait), and Tan Hiep market. Whether you’re after adventure or a peaceful retreat, Cu Lao Cham offers a unique slice of Vietnam’s coastal beauty.
Cham Islands, Tân Hiệp, Hội An, Quảng Nam
14. Walk at Love Bridge at night
One of Danang’s most unique things to do at evening, the Love Bridge by the Han River is a charming spot that attracts couples. Adorned with heart-shaped lanterns and lined with hundreds of love locks, the bridge offers a meaningful symbol of connection and affection.
Đ. Nguyễn Văn Linh, Phước Ninh, Hải Châu
15. Relax at Than Tai Hot Spring Park
A truly unique escape near Da Nang, Than Tai Hot Springs Park combines natural relaxation with family-friendly services. This one-of-a-kind destination offers not only soothing hot mineral springs perfect for unwinding, but also a lively water park filled with games and activities for all ages. It’s the ideal spot to recharge after a busy day of sightseeing or exploring.
Surrounded by lush green mountains and fresh, peaceful air, the setting adds to the experience—making it feel like a hidden retreat. With its rare mix of wellness and excitement, The Hot Springs is a must-visit for those looking for something different in Da Nang.
QL14G, Hoà Phú, Hòa Vang, Đà Nẵng
15. Take a day trip to Hoi An
Hoi An
Where to Stay in Da Nang
Many first-time visitors to Da Nang ask me whether it’s better to stay in the city or by the beach. Both options have their perks and drawbacks, and I’ve actually don’t mind (myself), to stay in city rather than the beach, you know it’s busy, very touristy and sometimes hard to move around, specially at evening.
In addition, some top places to stay—including a lot of great Danang Beach Hotel, the stylish Risemount Premier, and the budget-friendly Fivitel Danang Hotel. If you’re still deciding, those might help you narrow things down.
Nightlife in Danang
If you are looking where to go in Danang at night? The Danang nightlife guide highlights trendy spots like LIBRE Bar, Esco Beach Bar, and Horizon Bar. Experience something unique at New Phương Đông and other lively venues. Discover the best places to enjoy a fabulous evening in Danang’s vibrant nightlife scene.
FAQ: Things to do in Danang, Vietnam
What is Da Nang best known for?
Da Nang is famous for My Khe Beach, its relaxing atmosphere, and great weather year-round. The city is also just 30 km from Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s must-see destinations. Located halfway between Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south, Da Nang offers a convenient base for travelers exploring the country.
Is Da Nang worth visiting for tourists?
Absolutely! The city of Da Nang is definitely worth a visit. Known for its breathtaking coastline, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, this city offers something for everyone. From the iconic Dragon Bridge and Golden Hands Bridge to the tranquil Marble Mountains, Da Nang is a blend of natural beauty and modern development. With its lively atmosphere, delicious street food, and a perfect mix of tradition and innovation, Da Nang stands out as one of Vietnam’s must-see destinations.
How many days in Da Nang is enough?
Plan for 2-4 days. In Da Nang, 2 days is enough to see the key attractions and if you have more time, spend 2 more days to relax at the beach and a day trip tp Hoi An.
What food is famous in Danang?
Da Nang’s cuisine highlights the best of Central Vietnam. Be sure to try a bowl of flavorful mì Quảng noodles in a rich peanut and pork broth, indulge in savory Hue dumplings like bánh bèo and bánh nậm, and enjoy the aromatic fish patties and slurp-worthy bún chả cá noodles.
Is Da Nang a walkable city?
Yes. Da Nang Walkability and getting around Da Nang on foot is quite easy, thanks to its wide streets and spacious sidewalks. With a population of just 1.3 million, the city feels relaxed and manageable. The downtown area, including My Khe Beach, the Dragon Bridge, and Hai Thang Chinh Street, offers plenty of interesting sights to explore.
Is it safe to walk around Da Nang at night?
Very safe city to travel as a solo female: However, take care of your belongings, stay in well-lit areas, avoid walking alone late at night, and stay alert to your surroundings. Opt for social hostels where you can meet fellow travelers and enjoy the nightlife together.
Should I stay in Hoi An or Da Nang?
It is “Danang: city and beach” vs “Hoi An: charming but touristy” Both of them are really nice and interesting. However, see what you prefer more, i think as a tourist, no matter where to visit first, since staying in Danang, you would definitely visit Hoi An too.
