Here Are 8 Things to Do in Da Nang That I’d 100% Do Again – Vietnam

Let me tell you about a city I didn’t expect to fall in love with—Da Nang, a coastal gem in central Vietnam.

Despite years of travel, Vietnam had somehow never made it onto my itinerary. Then I came across Da Nang—an emerging hub for digital nomads and expats. It sounded like the perfect place to post up for a month, so I thought, why not?

I think of Da Nang as a beachside version of New York City—busy, noisy, and constantly awake. Honking horns and construction echo through the streets, but instead of yellow cabs and foot traffic, it’s a sea of scooters.

The food scene blends local flavors with global favorites, and everything is refreshingly affordable. It ranges from food stalls to fancy sit-down restaurants.

Here are 8 things to do in Da Nang Vietnam for your first visit, plus some of my favorite restaurants, co-working spaces and more!

Where Is Da Nang, and How Do You Get There?

Da Nang is located almost right in the center of Vietnam, hugging the country’s long coastline. It’s about halfway between Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

You can fly into Da Nang International Airport (DAD) from many major cities across Asia. If you’re coming from within Vietnam, short flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City are cheap and fast. The airport is just a 10-minute drive from the beach.

If you prefer a scenic route, take the Reunification Express train along the coast. It’s slower but offers gorgeous views.

What’s the Weather Like in Da Nang?

This city has a tropical monsoon climate. That means hot summers and mild winters.

• Dry season: Typically February to August is the best time to visit, especially April to May. Expect blue skies, warm days, and cooler nights in the first few months.
• Rainy season: September to January can be hit or miss with heavy showers. October often gets typhoons.

I visited in March and unfortunately, it was cloudy and grey most of the days, except the day I went to Ba Na Hills. Pack a light jacket and at least one pair of pants as it was chilly at night in March.

Where to Stay in Da Nang

If you want to wake up with the beach at your doorstep, stay near My Khe Beach. This area is super walkable and filled with cute cafes, rooftop pools, and seaside bars.

I stayed at Hem Hotel—it had spacious rooms, a kitchenette, a rooftop pool, and free washers and dryers on every floor. It was a 10-minute walk to the beach.

There are a ton of neighborhoods in Da Nang, you can check them out on hoodmaps.com.

I chose the beach area as it was within walking distance of several co-working spaces, as well as a mix of local and international food.

You can call a Grab Car to get you around for as little as $1 USD so it is easy to get to other neighborhoods.

8 Interesting Things to Do in Da Nang

While many travelers only spend a day or two in Da Nang, there’s more than enough to keep you busy for much longer.

I spent a full month here, which gave me time to explore it all—and pick up a few tips along the way. Let me show you my favorite things to do in Da Nang and the best nearby spots worth adding to your list.

1. See the Dragon Bridge Show + Son Tra Night Market

The Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng) is an iconic structure in Da Nang, designed to resemble a dragon—a symbol of power and prosperity in Vietnamese culture.

Every Friday and Saturday at 9:00 PM, the bridge comes alive with a spectacular display as it breathes fire and water.

It gets very crowded, so I suggest going early to the night market, around 7 pm, and then waiting for the show to start at 9 pm.

The show is very brief and the dragon does shoot water so don’t stand right under the mouth, aim to be behind the mouth or on the viewing platform UNDER the bridge so you don’t get soaked.

If you want to make a night out of it, book a Dragon Bridge Night Cruise. That way, you avoid the crowds at the market and also potentially getting wet.

Cost and Tips:

• The Night market is open at 5:30 pm – 12 pm, 7 days a week.
• The Dragon Show only happens on Fridays and Saturdays (subject to change).
• The show is free to watch.
• Don’t stand near the mouth of the dragon or you will get wet.
• Book a Boat Tour to avoid the crowds and water.

2. Explore the Marble Mountains and Am Phu Cave

The Marble Mountains, known locally as Ngũ Hành Sơn, are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each named after the five elements.

These mountains are home to a network of caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries. One notable site is the Am Phu Cave, which offers a depiction of Buddhist hell, complete with intricate carvings and statues.​

If you are staying near My Kye beach, you can take a Grab Car 15 minutes to the mountain.

It’s a hard climb if you are out of shape or not used to walking uphill in high humidity. Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate shoes.

You don’t necessarily need a guide need but if you would like to learn more about the history, then book this Marble Mountains Tour.

Cost and Tips

• Open 7 days a week, 7 am – 5 pm.
• You will pay for three different things, at three different times. The cave, the elevator, and the second part of the mountain.
  • Entrance to Marble Mountains: 40,000 VND ($1.60 USD)
  • Am Phu Cave: 20,000 VND ($0.80 USD)
  • Elevator fee (optional): 15,000 VND ~$0.60 USD) per ride
• Wear sneakers and bring plenty of water.
• Bring cash, they do not take credit cards.
• Official website: nguhanhson.org
• Google Maps: Marble Mountains

3. Visit Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park

Nestled within the lush Ba Na–Nui Chua Nature Reserve, Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park offers a rejuvenating escape just 30–40 minutes from Da Nang.

This expansive 60-hectare park combines natural hot springs, therapeutic baths, and family-friendly water attractions, making it a perfect day trip for relaxation and fun.​

Soak in natural hot mineral springs and enjoy a variety of baths, including mud, herbal, and Japanese-style onsen.

You can also enjoy the water park, complete with slides, a lazy river, and the unique Dragon Acupuncture Lake.

It was still fun as two adults, there were kids there but it wasn’t too busy in March.

Cost and Tips:

• Open 8:30 am – 5:30 pm, 7 days a week.
• The park offers several packages which include mud baths and rides.
• Check out the current price list on the website here.
• You can also book a Day Trip that includes a ride and lunch.
• Bring swimwear, towels, and waterproof bags for personal items.
• Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid crowds.
• Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
• Google Maps: Hot Springs

4. Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture

The Museum of Cham Sculpture houses the world’s largest collection of Cham artifacts, showcasing the art and culture of the ancient Champa Kingdom.

Visitors can explore over 300 pieces, including sandstone sculptures and intricate carvings, dating from the 7th to the 15th centuries.​

Cost and Tips:

• Entrance fee: 60,000 VND ($2.40 USD) per person
• Book a Sculpture Tour of the Museum
• Open 7 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week
• Official website: chammuseum.vn
• Google Maps: Museum of Cham Sculpture

5. Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge

This mountaintop theme park is home to the famous Golden Bridge, held up by giant stone hands. The cable car ride alone is worth the trip—it’s the longest non-stop one in the world.

At the top, explore French-style villages, flower gardens, and fantasy-style castles. It’s touristy but still magical, especially in the morning before the crowds arrive.

I really enjoyed my day here and it ended up being one of my favorite Da Na things to see. It was sunny the day I visited, and I went early so the crowds were not that bad. Check out my day at Ba Na Hills here for a more detailed overview.

Cost and Tips:

• Opening hours: 8 AM to 5:30 PM (may extend during holidays or high season)
• Ticket price: About 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) for adults
• Includes: Round-trip cable car, Fantasy Park, Golden Bridge and French Village
• Book a private car to take you to the base of the mountain
• Arrive by 7:30 am the latest
• Check out my Ba Na Hills guide for more tips!

6. Learn How to Make Vietnamese Coffee

If you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply curious about Vietnam’s rich coffee culture, this hands-on workshop in Da Nang is perfect.

I was amazed to discover the variety of coffee styles unique to Vietnam, each with its own story and flavor profile.​ And I don’t even like coffee (but my partner does)!

Here are the 3 types of coffee you will learn how to make:

Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) – A creamy concoction of egg yolk and condensed milk.

Salted Coffee (Cà Phê Muối) – A unique blend that balances bitterness with a hint of saltiness.

Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Dừa) – A tropical twist combining robust coffee with creamy coconut milk.

The experience lasted about 90 minutes, and we received the recipes after as well. You can easily do this and also a cooking class in the same day!

Cost and Tips:

• The tours are available at different times, 7 days a week
• The 90-minute class was $17 USD.
• Book in advance: Coffee Making Class

7. Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class and Boat Ride

This was a really fun activity! It is technically in Hoi An which is a 30-minute ride from Da Nang but worth the ride as it includes a boat ride.

You start with a guided tour of a local market in Hoi An where you’ll learn about Vietnamese ingredients and pick up the freshest produce for your class.

Then hop into a traditional round bamboo basket boat for a peaceful ride through the Bay Mau coconut forest—expect a little crab fishing and maybe even a fun boat dance show.

After that, you’ll head to a cooking school to prepare and enjoy four classic Vietnamese dishes, guided step-by-step by a local chef.

Cost and Tips:

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours
• Cost: Starting from $30.00 USD per person
• Includes: Guide, 40-minute basket boat ride, cooking class, bottled water, transportation, insurance, and lunch or dinner
• Book in advance: Market, Boat Tour and Cooking Class

8. Spend the Day at My Khe Beach

The beach was the most active beach I have ever seen. Locals and expats head out just after dawn to swim, jog, or stretch by the sea before the sun gets too strong.

The sand is soft and clean, and you can grab a sunbed for around $2 USD a day. Public bathrooms, showers, and changing stalls are dotted along the stretch.

After 5 p.m., the beach fills with people running, playing volleyball, swimming, and gathering to catch the sunset.

There’s no shortage of restaurants and cocktail spots lining the coast. They were a little pricier than other locations, but it was nice to be outdoors for a meal.

Other beaches worth exploring:

• Non Nuoc Beach – A quieter escape, perfect for paddleboarding or just a peaceful walk.
• Pham Van Dong Beach – Busier on weekends, popular with local families, and great for people-watching.

4 Easy Day Trips From Da Nang

Da Nang is a great base for exploring central Vietnam. You can reach several other cities in less than two hours from the city center.

Hoi An – Just 30 minutes away, this UNESCO-listed town is dreamy. Lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and riverside dining. Check out my full Hoi An guide here.

Hai Van Pass – Rent a motorbike or join a jeep tour over this scenic mountain road.

My Son Sanctuary – Ancient Hindu temples surrounded by jungle, about 90 minutes from Da Nang. You can book a guided tour to get there.

Must-Try Dishes in Da Nang

I came to Vietnam with almost no idea what to expect food-wise—my only reference points were Pho and the occasional Banh Mi back home.

But once I started eating my way through Da Nang, I was hooked. There was hardly a dish I didn’t love!

Here are my top 5 dishes to try and don’t be afraid to ask the staff how to eat them, especially the Banh Xeo 🙂

Banh Xeo – Crispy rice pancakes filled with shrimp and bean sprouts, wrapped in lettuce with dipping sauce.

Nem Lui – Lemongrass pork skewers grilled and rolled in rice paper.

Mi Quang – Noodles, peanuts, turmeric broth, and herbs. It’s the soul of Da Nang cuisine.

Pho – Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup, with slow-cooked broth, rice noodles, and tender slices of beef or chicken.

Banh Mi – A crusty French baguette filled with meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili sauce. Perfect for breakfast or a midday bite.

You’ll also find street food on nearly every block—don’t be afraid to sit on a tiny stool and dig in. Yes, the food is safe; just don’t drink the water!

Favorite Restaurants, Bars and Hangouts in Da Nang

Spending a month in Da Nang gave me plenty of time to explore the food and drink scene—and I definitely made the most of it.

I couldn’t possibly list every place I tried (especially since I didn’t have a single bad meal), but here are a few standouts you won’t want to miss.

Restaurants:

• Cơm tấm Út Vân – The best and most authentic Vietnamese food
• Loving Vegan – Excellent and fresh, serving Vietnamese and international food.
• Bikini Bottom Express – Sponge Bob themed burger joint.

Bars:

• Esco– Large beachfront restaurant that serves locally crafted beer.
• East West Brewing Co – next to Esco and a rooftop bar, great craft beers.
• Kong 72 – Cool entrance and live DJ most nights.
• Shamrock Irish Bar – Casual and divey in the best way.

Dance Clubs:

• Galaxy Pub – A Vietnamese-style nightclub with live DJs and lasers.
• Bamboo 2 Bar – Right on the Han River, with cheap drinks and great views.
• Golden Pine Pub – Always busy, loud music, and lots of dancing.

Co-Working in Da Nang

If you’re planning to work remotely, you’ll find a variety of coworking spaces that cater to different preferences.

In addition to dedicated coworking spaces, Da Nang has no shortage of coffee shops where you can work for free—just grab a drink or snack and settle in.

Here are the three spaces I frequented:

The Hive Da Nang

Located in the An Thuong area, The Hive blends wellness and productivity with a rooftop chill zone and an on-site café.

They have ergonomic chairs and free coffee, and the AC is nice and cold. Prices start at around 70,000 VND ($2.80 USD) for a day pass. Hive Google Map

Seaview Coworking

Just steps from the ocean, Seaview Coworking offers 24/7 access with a stunning view to keep you inspired.

The space is modern, calm, and community-oriented, with flexible passes for short or long stays. Prices start at 70,000 VND ($2.80 USD) for a 3-hour pass. Seaview Google Map

Danasol – Eatery, Café & Workspace

Part café, part coworking space, Danasol has a laid-back, boho vibe with leafy corners and a healthy food menu.

Since some of the seats are outdoors, make sure you put on bug spray! Prices start at 65,000 VND ($2.60 USD) with no strict time limit for café customers using the space. Danasol Google Map

Where to Workout by My Khe Beach

Since I was staying near the beach and didn’t have a scooter, I opted to work out at Lucia Fitness. It is a private coaching gym, open to the public.

I paid $25 USD for a month pass, which may seem high, however, the gym had everything I needed, and it was close to where I was staying. They also offer day passes for about $4 USD. Lucia Fitness Google Map

Where to Get a Massage in Da Nang

I don’t usually get massages while traveling because I often find them too gentle—more of a light rub than real relief.

But I ended up going to Oani Day Spa twice for their so-called “foot” massage, and it completely changed my mind.

It wasn’t just my feet—they massaged my entire lower legs and worked out every knot in my calves. Highly recommend if you’re walking a lot or just need a reset. Oani Day Spa Google Map

Final Thoughts on Da Nang Things to See

There’s something wonderfully easy about being in Da Nang. I definitely plan to spend more time here, in the coming years.

From the golden bridge in the mountains to lazy beach days, from learning how to make Vietnamese coffee to bar-hopping with strangers who become friends, this city has a quiet way of getting under your skin.

Want help planning your things to do Da Nang itinerary or need recommendations for tours and classes in Da Nang? I’m happy to share what worked for me, just message me! Let’s make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Like this post? Share it with others!