Da Nang, located on Vietnam's central coast, is a city that combines nature, culture, and modernity. With its stunning beaches, spiritual temples, and lively markets, this destination has everything to charm travelers seeking authentic experiences. It’s also just a few kilometers from the city of Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most fascinating destinations due to its history, architecture, and daily lantern festival.
We spent a few days in Da Nang during our trip through Southeast Asia. In this article, we’ve gathered the 5 must-do activities you shouldn't miss when visiting Da Nang.
For reference, we stayed at the Mona Lisa Hotel & Apartment for this trip, close to Da Nang’s beach and supermarkets. To visit the five attractions listed below, we used the Grab taxi service app.
1. Meet Lady Buddha
Overlooking Da Nang Bay, Lady Buddha is an impressive 67-meter-high statue that watches over the city from the Son Tra Peninsula. You can spot it from Da Nang's beach. This site is not only a place of worship but also offers an exceptional vantage point over the ocean and the city below. The serene atmosphere here makes it an ideal stop to soak in Vietnamese spirituality while enjoying breathtaking views. The interior of the statue has been designed with 17 floors, each dedicated to a different Buddhist deity.
Take some time to explore the nearby Linh Ung Pagoda, one of the most significant Buddhist temples in the region. As this is a religious site, be sure to cover your shoulders and knees during your visit.
2. Visit the Marble mountains
Located about 15 kilometers from Da Nang, the Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each representing a sacred element: fire, wood, earth, metal, and water. Here, you can explore natural caves, ancient pagodas, and beautiful sculptures carved into the rock. Climb to the top of Thuy Son Mountain for a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area. Access is available via both stairs and an elevator, and there is an entrance fee.
Don't miss Huyen Khong Cave, where natural light creates a breathtakingly mystical atmosphere.
3. Watch the sunset from the Dragon Bridge
The Dragon Bridge is one of Da Nang's modern landmarks. Shaped like a dragon and painted in bright yellow, this bridge spans the Han River and lights up every evening in a dazzling display of colorful lights. If you're in town on a Saturday or Sunday evening, don’t miss the moment when the dragon breathes fire and water at 9 PM!
To fully enjoy the spectacle, grab a spot along the riverbank at one of the street food stalls and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere as the sun sets and the bridge lights up.
4. Indulge on Vietnamese delicious street food at the night market
For a true immersion into local culture, head to Da Nang's night market. Here, street food stalls compete with mouthwatering flavors and aromas to offer you an unforgettable culinary experience. Try local specialties like bánh xèo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes), nem lui (grilled pork skewers), and chè (desserts made with beans, fruits, and coconut milk). Seafood lovers will be delighted by lobsters and octopus dishes. It's the perfect place to soak in the lively atmosphere of Vietnamese nightlife.
5. Relax on My Khe Beach
After all these explorations, what better way to unwind than relaxing on a white sand beach? Da Nang is famous for its stunning beaches, and My Khe Beach, with its fine sand and turquoise waters, is one of the most beautiful in Vietnam. Stretching along the coast for miles, this beach is perfect for a relaxing break, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply chill while watching fishermen return with their traditional boats. For those who enjoy water activities, there are plenty of options like jet-skiing, paddleboarding, or surfing to keep you entertained.
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