Da Nang

How many days: 3 to 4

Spend your first day around My Khe Beach and the Han River, including Dragon Bridge and the riverside streets. On your second day, visit the Marble Mountains and explore the city's museums or markets. Leave the evening free for seafood and a walk along the waterfront.

Use another day for Son Tra Peninsula, or make a longer excursion to the Hai Van Pass. With a fourth day, you can visit My Son Sanctuary or simply slow down. Hoi An is close enough to visit, although staying there separately gives you a better feel for its evenings.

What to do in Da Nang

Relax on My Khe Beach

Walk the long stretch of sand, swim when conditions are suitable and watch local life unfold along the promenade. Early mornings are particularly pleasant before the strongest heat.

Climb the Marble Mountains

Explore limestone hills containing caves, shrines and viewpoints south of the city. There are steep steps and uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time for the climb.

Explore Son Tra Peninsula

Follow the forested coastline towards viewpoints and Linh Ung Pagoda, known for its large Lady Buddha statue. Wildlife lives in the protected forest, so keep your distance and avoid feeding animals.

Walk beside the Han River

See the city's bridges and illuminated riverfront after sunset. Dragon Bridge is the main landmark, and the surrounding streets are good for an unhurried evening.

Visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture

Discover stone carvings and religious sculptures from the historic Cham civilisation. It gives useful context before visiting archaeological sites elsewhere in central Vietnam.

Travel across the Hai Van Pass

Take the scenic mountain road north of Da Nang for coastal views and dramatic bends. A driver is a sensible choice if you are not experienced on Vietnamese mountain roads.

Explore My Son Sanctuary

Visit the remains of Hindu temple complexes built by the Cham civilisation in a green valley inland. Go earlier in the day where possible, as exposed sections can become very hot.

Browse Han Market

Look through stalls selling produce, dried foods, clothing and everyday goods. It is a useful place to see the city's commercial life and try simple local snacks.

Discover Non Nuoc Beach

Spend time on the quieter stretches of coastline near the Marble Mountains. The broad beach is appealing for walking, although swimming conditions depend on the weather and surf.

Visit Hoi An's old town

Make an excursion south to see preserved merchant houses, lantern-lined streets and historic bridges. Stay into the evening if possible, when the town takes on a different atmosphere.

What to eat and drink

Try mi Quang

Order central Vietnamese turmeric-coloured noodles with herbs, vegetables, peanuts and a small amount of rich broth. Toppings vary, so it is worth trying more than one version.

Eat fresh seafood

Choose grilled fish, prawns, squid or shellfish near the coast. Ask how dishes are prepared and confirm the total cost before ordering seafood sold by weight.

Have banh xeo

Try crisp savoury pancakes filled with ingredients such as prawns and bean sprouts. Wrap pieces with herbs and leaves, then dip them into the accompanying sauce.

Sample bun cha ca

Have a bowl of noodle soup with fish cakes, vegetables and a light, savoury broth. It makes a satisfying breakfast or lunch.

Eat banh mi

Pick up a crusty baguette filled with meat, vegetables, herbs or eggs. It is an easy option when you want something quick between sightseeing stops.

Drink Vietnamese coffee

Try strong filtered coffee with condensed milk, served hot or over ice. Coconut coffee is another popular variation if you prefer something sweeter.

Getting around

Da Nang is spread out, so walking works best within individual areas rather than across the whole city. The beachfront and Han River are pleasant on foot, but travelling between them is easier by taxi or app-based car. Grab is commonly used, and you should check the vehicle details before getting in.

For the Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula and longer excursions, arrange a car or driver. Motorbikes are common but traffic can be demanding, and mountain roads require particular care. The airport is close to the city. For Hoi An, use a car or an appropriate local transport connection.

Good to know

• Central Vietnam has a wetter, storm-prone period, particularly towards the later part of the year. Check forecasts and local warnings before beach or mountain trips.
• Strong currents and rough surf can make swimming unsafe even when the beach looks inviting. Follow local flags and lifeguard advice.
• The Marble Mountains involve steps, slippery rock and low cave passages. Take water and wear shoes with good grip.
• Use sun protection throughout the day. Heat and humidity can make short walks surprisingly tiring.
• Tipping is appreciated for good service but is not universally expected. Check whether a service charge is already included.
• Da Nang and Hoi An are close, but they offer different experiences. Consider staying in both rather than repeatedly travelling between them.