Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang is one of the country’s most popular tourist cities with its historical and natural beauty. Blending modern urban structure with traditional culture, Da Nang offers visitors both a peaceful holiday and an active exploration opportunity. With its wide beaches, impressive temples, vibrant night markets, and iconic bridges, the city promises a variety of experiences appealing to every taste.
Da Nang is also an ideal transit point between the northern and southern regions of Vietnam. Thanks to its proximity to Hoi An and the historic city of Hue, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, day trips from Da Nang are quite popular. Activities in the city include taking a cable car ride to Ba Na Hills, watching night shows at the Dragon Bridge, and taking meditative walks in the Marble Mountains. In this city where nature and history intertwine, an unforgettable Vietnam experience awaits.
1. Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng)
Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng) is one of the symbols of Da Nang, located in the heart of the city over the Han River. Opened in 2013, this impressive structure is designed in the shape of a dragon, symbolizing power and wealth in Vietnamese culture. The bridge is 666 meters long and includes a six-lane traffic road. Illuminated by LED lights, the dragon figure offers a dazzling view, especially at night.
One of the unique features of the Dragon Bridge is the special shows held on weekends. Every Saturday and Sunday evening at 9:00 PM, a performance takes place in which the dragon’s head breathes fire and sprays water. This show is a highly popular attraction for both locals and tourists. Dragon Bridge is not only a transportation structure but also an important tourist attraction that reflects Da Nang’s modern identity and creative urban architecture.
2. Golden Bridge (Cầu Vàng)
Golden Bridge, known in Vietnamese as Cầu Vàng, is located at an altitude of 1,400 meters in Bà Nà Hills and measures 150 meters in length and 5 meters in width. Beyond being a traditional bridge, it captivates visitors with the sensation of “walking in the sky” thanks to two giant fiberglass “Hands of God” supporting its golden-colored steel base. The design was created by TA Landscape Architecture, affiliated with Ho Chi Minh City University, with construction beginning in July 2017 and completed in April 2018; it opened to the public in June.
The bridge is impressive not only for its architectural beauty but also for its panoramic forest view, misty atmosphere, and ribbon-like curved form. Visitors walking along the golden railing feel as if they are at the edge of a cliff; situated beside temple gardens, this structure offers a unique visual spectacle especially in the early morning or at sunset, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts. Additionally, it has been praised in international media such as BBC, CNN, Time, and Reuters with phrases like “a golden thread from the hands of God,” becoming a viral icon in the world of architecture and tourism.
Golden Bridge, accessible by Bà Nà Hills cable cars, stands out as a structure that represents Vietnam’s modern identity both technically and aesthetically. With its creative design and dramatic natural setting, it is a must-see and unforgettable experience for both locals and international tourists.
3. Bà Nà Hills
Bà Nà Hills is a mountain entertainment complex located about 30 kilometers west of Da Nang city center at an altitude of 1,400 meters. Originally built as a resort during the French colonial period, the area today stands out with its architecture that carries historical traces as well as its modern entertainment facilities. Visitors experience a unique journey by taking one of the world’s longest single-cable cable cars to the mountain summit. During the ride, the lush forest landscapes and mountain silhouettes rising through the clouds captivate all who see them.
One of the most iconic structures in the complex is the Golden Bridge, designed to appear as if held by two giant hands. In addition, the French village-themed stone streets, Gothic-style churches, wine cellars, themed gardens, and Fantasy Park—one of Asia’s largest indoor amusement parks—offer visitors a vast area to explore. With its cool climate and fairytale-like atmosphere, Bà Nà Hills is a must-visit destination in Vietnam for those who want to be close to nature as well as for those seeking a blend of cultural and entertaining activities.
4. Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)
Marble Mountains (Vietnamese: Ngũ Hành Sơn) is a truly unique place that showcases Da Nang’s natural and cultural richness. Located only 7–12 kilometers from the city center, it consists of five marble and limestone hills, named after the elements “Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth.” These mountains, once considered sacred by both the ancient Cham people and the Nguyen dynasty, are adorned with temples, caves, and tunnels. The harmony between nature and religious structures offers visitors a distinctly peaceful atmosphere.
This area allows visitors to climb Thủy Sơn hill and explore caves such as Huyen Khong and Tang Chon, which enchant with their interplay of light and shadow. Its close connection with Non Nước village, one of the origins of stone carving art, provides the opportunity to witness the production process of handmade goods through ceramic and marble workshops. Although reaching the summit requires some effort by climbing stairs, it offers a highly rewarding experience with panoramic views of My Khe Beach and the sea surrounding Da Nang. With these qualities, Marble Mountains is a perfect half-day destination that combines nature, culture, and craftsmanship.
5. Son Trà Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
Son Trà Peninsula, commonly known as Monkey Mountain, is a natural paradise located about 10 kilometers northeast of Da Nang city center at an elevation of 693 meters. Covered with lush tropical forests and spanning approximately 4,500 hectares, it is home to over 1,000 plant species and 120 animal species, including rare primates such as the red-shanked douc langurs. The name “Monkey Mountain” was given by American soldiers due to the dense monkey population in the area. The region offers both nature-filled hiking trails and coastal scenic driving routes; with its rich flora, giant banyan trees, and cliffs offering views of the city and sea, it provides an unforgettable experience for visitors.
The most striking cultural attraction of Monkey Mountain is the 67-meter-tall Divine Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda; this structure is one of the tallest statues not only in the region but in all of Southeast Asia and offers a peaceful spiritual atmosphere while overlooking panoramic views of the city and sea. Natural landmarks such as “Chessboard Peak” (Ban Co Peak) and the nearly 1,000-year-old Banyan Tree turn the area into a hotspot for nature and photography enthusiasts. It is also known for camping, trekking, and paragliding opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those wanting to spend time immersed in local flora and fauna.
6. Linh Ung Pagoda (Lady Buddha)
Linh Ung Pagoda is a lush temple complex overlooking the sea on Da Nang’s Son Trà Peninsula. Constructed between 2004 and 2010, this pagoda covers an area of 20 hectares and stands out with its surrounding mountain and sea views. The most striking feature of the temple grounds is the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha (Quan Yin) statue—the tallest female Buddha statue in the country, equivalent to a 30-story building, rising on a 35-meter-wide lotus platform. Inside the statue are 17 levels, each housing sacred spaces dedicated to different Buddha figures.
Linh Ung Pagoda offers a peaceful visiting experience with its architectural details and natural setting. The main hall in the temple courtyard, topped with a dragon roof, is adorned with four guardian statues and 18 Arhat figures. The silence accompanying your steps as you ascend, the ocean breeze, and quiet prayers bring a sense of calm; visiting in the early morning or at sunset provides unforgettable moments in terms of both scenery and spiritual atmosphere. In addition, entry to the temple is free, and the site includes basic visitor facilities such as restrooms, seating areas, and a café.
7. My Khe Beach
My Khe Beach stands out as Da Nang’s most well-known and popular coastline. With its fine white sand meeting UNESCO standards and warm, clear turquoise water year-round, it was selected by Forbes as “one of the six most attractive beaches in the world.” Stretching along approximately 10 kilometers of shoreline and located only 3 kilometers from the city center, My Khe is easily accessible and free of charge for both locals and tourists. It is an ideal spot for peaceful activities such as early morning walks accompanied by birdsong, jogging along the walking paths, or cycling and meditating during sunset.
My Khe Beach draws attention not only with its natural beauty but also with its vibrant atmosphere. Thanks to its shallow waters, it is suitable for swimming, surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. With lifeguards stationed along the beach (from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM), it provides a safe experience for families and solo visitors alike. Additionally, beachside restaurants, cafés, and fitness areas along the walking paths offer a lively environment at all times of the day. Whether enjoying the sea during the day or strolling along the shore at sunset with a tea or coffee accompanied by local flavors in the evening, My Khe is an indispensable destination.
8. Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass—locally known as “Hải Vân Pass” (translated as “Ocean–Cloud Pass”)—is a dramatic mountain pass stretching approximately 21 kilometers between the cities of Da Nang and Hue. This winding route reaches elevations of up to 500 meters, curving around the mountains parallel to the South China Sea, and is captivating in terms of both nature and history. The name of the area comes from the misty clouds that rise to the summit and merge with the sea; this visual effect enchants travelers with its orange-tinged mist in every season. Additionally, it was featured in the 2008 Top Gear Vietnam special episode as “the world’s best coastal road,” turning it into an icon for adventurers and motor enthusiasts.
Hai Van Pass also served as a natural border throughout history between the kingdoms of China, Champa, and Dai Viet. A gate established in 1306 can still be seen today, offering historical testimony to the strategic importance of the pass. During the Vietnam War, it was referred to as the “street without joy” and was also used as a fortress by U.S. and South Vietnamese forces. Today, thanks to a tunnel that diverts heavy vehicles from the route, only motorcycles, bicycles, and passenger cars travel through, transforming the pass into a tranquil journey filled with panoramic views and cloud-covered passages.
9. Asia Park – Sun Wheel
Asia Park – Sun Wheel is the most striking landmark of Sun World Da Nang Wonders, an amusement and cultural park located in the heart of Da Nang. Standing at 115 meters tall, Sun Wheel is among the tallest Ferris wheels in the world, with a total of 64 cabins and a full rotation taking 15 minutes. While it offers a bright view of the city and the Han River during the day, at night it transforms into a colorful visual spectacle illuminated by 13,000 LED lights, creating an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists.
The park is not limited to the Ferris wheel; it features attractions like a monorail, roller coasters, and thrill rides such as Queen Cobra, along with architectural corners representing various Asian countries. Spanning an area of 800,000 square meters, the park combines entertainment with culture—miniature themed zones from Japan to Nepal, ethnic performances, and exotic food stops await exploration. While it offers a peaceful walk during the day, in the evening, the night view from the top of the Sun Wheel creates a romantic atmosphere and highlights Da Nang’s modern identity.
Visitor Tips:
- Admission fee is approximately 150,000 VND and includes access to all rides.
- Free admission hours: daily from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- The best time to enjoy the views is just after sunset and in the evening when the lights are fully active (after 8:00 PM).
10. Cham Museum of Sculpture
The Museum of Cham Sculpture, located in Da Nang’s Hải Châu district near the banks of the Han River, is a cultural treasure. Established in 1915 under the leadership of French archaeologist Henri Parmentier, the museum opened in 1919. The building, designed by Delaval–Auclair, features a distinctive U-shaped plan and was constructed with Cham architectural influences. With galleries added in the 1930s and a two-story building constructed in 2002, the museum’s total area has reached approximately 6,700 square meters; these expansions include exhibition spaces, a library, a restoration workshop, and administrative offices.
The museum houses the world’s richest Cham collection, consisting of around 300 stone and terracotta sculptures dating from the 7th to the 15th centuries. The exhibition layout is organized into 10 galleries reflecting the origins of the artifacts, thematically arranged by archaeological centers such as My Son, Tra Kieu, Dong Duong, and Thap Mam. The museum is also home to three works designated as “National Treasures”: the Tara Bodhisattva statue, the My Son E1 altar, and the Tra Kieu altar.
11. Dragon Carp Statue (Cá Chép Hóa Rồng)
The Dragon Carp Statue (Cá Chép Hóa Rồng) is a white marble sculpture approximately 7.5 meters tall, located near the banks of the Han River. This massive structure is composed of five pieces of natural marble, and including its base, weighs around 200 tons. The head of the statue is designed in the shape of a dragon, while its body is covered in fish scales, offering a unique artistic expression that combines both fish and dragon figures.
The story behind this iconic monument is based on the Chinese myth of the “fish-to-dragon” legend: the symbolism of the carp transforming into a dragon after overcoming challenges represents determination, transformation, and success. The statue goes beyond being a mere aesthetic object—it features a water-spraying mechanism, turning it into a functional water symbol and adding vibrancy to the view of the Dragon Bridge. Creating a captivating atmosphere both day and night under the city lights, it has become one of the must-photograph landmarks of any Da Nang visit.
12. Han River Walks & Coffee Shops
The walking areas along the Han River in Da Nang offer an ideal space for enjoying peaceful moments both in the early morning and late afternoon, with their wide sidewalks and a shoreline stretching about 6 kilometers. Especially from 4:00 AM onward, walkers and joggers can find dedicated space to exercise while watching the bridges rise over the river and blending into the city’s landscape. Iconic structures such as the Han River Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and Tran Thi Ly Bridge located along the paths enrich the walking experience visually.
The riverside cafés offer a different ambiance at every hour of the day; starting the morning with a cup of drip coffee in the cool breeze or sitting among the river lights at sunset creates a special pleasure. Venues like Memory Café and Cong Cà Phê on Bach Dang Street are favorite stops for both locals and visitors. Many cafés open as early as 4:00 AM, providing an ideal setting for those who enjoy watching the sunrise by the river; to witness the city’s vibrant life, these cafés definitely deserve a spot on your must-visit list.
13. Pink Cathedral
Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Cathedral) is a unique example of Gothic architecture located in the heart of the city on Tran Phu Street, completed in 1924. Built during the French colonial period, the cathedral is known as the “Pink Church” or locally as the “Rooster Church” due to the rooster figure on top of the steeple, which serves not only for direction but also references the biblical story of Saint Peter. With its soft pastel pink façade, non-transparent stained glass windows, and a 70-meter-high bell tower, it stands out visually.
The cathedral functions as both a place of worship and a popular photo spot. Admission is free, and its interior, filled with architectural details, welcomes visitors with a tranquil atmosphere. English mass is held on weekends, and on other days, services usually take place at around 5:00 AM in the morning and 5:00 PM in the evening. Behind the cathedral, there is also a grotto resembling the Lourdes Grotto, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, offering a peaceful resting point for both the faithful and photography enthusiasts.
14. Dragon Bridge Fire/Water Show
Every weekend, Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng) transforms from a majestic structure into a theatrical spectacle with its fire and water show—it begins breathing fire at 9:00 PM and lasts for about 15 minutes. During the performance, the dragon head releases fire nine times, followed by three bursts of water, offering both a visual and sensory experience. The show is free to watch on the last three nights of the week—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—and additional performances may be held during important holidays such as Tết (Lunar New Year).
The best places to watch include the riverside Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao streets and the pedestrian areas of the bridge itself. Standing close to the sections where smoke and water are sprayed can leave viewers pleasantly soaked, so it’s recommended to choose your spot based on your preferences. You can also watch the show from boats on the river or by sitting at riverside cafés and bars—offering both comfort and excellent visual angles.
Before the show, enjoying a river cruise in the cool evening air, shopping at the Son Trà Night Market, or reserving a seat at a café along the river are great ways to complete the atmosphere. Reflecting Da Nang’s modern face, this event is one of the most popular and shareable weekend experiences for both locals and tourists, adding a vivid cultural highlight to your visit to the city.
15. Son Trà Night Market
Son Trà Night Market is located right next to the Dragon Bridge in the city center, at the intersection of Ly Nam Đế and Mai Hắc Đế streets. Open from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, this pedestrian market is the largest night market in Da Nang and offers a riverside atmosphere filled with both food and souvenir vendors. Wide walking areas, hundreds of stalls, and colorful street lighting add vibrancy to the market. Visitors can easily access the Dragon Carp Statue, Love Bridge, and Dragon Bridge, linking the night market with the city’s iconic landmarks.
Son Trà especially stands out on weekends for its food experience. The area transforms into an open-air restaurant with vendors specializing in street food and grilled seafood steaming from pans. Local dishes such as snails, seafood hot pots, mì quảng, and bánh xèo are available at affordable prices, with seafood sets also offered for larger groups. Handmade gifts, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs (lanterns, hats, textile items) are also sold, with prices ranging between 35,000 and 200,000 VND. On weekend nights, street performances from acoustic music to magic shows take place, and during special events, the Dragon Bridge fire-and-water show is integrated into the experience, creating an all-around entertainment atmosphere.
Son Trà Night Market is one of the favorite evening gathering spots for both locals and tourists. It offers not only food and shopping but also an up-close and personal glimpse into the city’s night life. Watching the fire-and-water show at Dragon Bridge, walking along the Han River, and tasting authentic flavors at the market make Da Nang nights truly unforgettable.
16. Helio Night Market
Helio Night Market is a large night market located on 2/9 Street in the lively Hai Chau district of Da Nang. Spanning 35,000 square meters, it features four main zones (Gastronomy, Seafood, Beer & BBQ, and Shopping) and over 150 stalls. Open daily from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM, the market reaches its peak crowds on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Visitors can explore a wide range of street foods—such as bánh xèo, tteokbokki, bubble tea, and crepes—alongside a diverse culinary selection from Central Asia to Europe, all while enjoying live music performances.
Helio is not just about food—it is also a lively social hub. The Beer & BBQ corner offers nearly 70 varieties of beer, and the venue features live stage shows, dance performances, play areas, and special stages for summer festivals. In the shopping zone, clothing, accessories, cosmetics, handicrafts, and souvenirs are sold at affordable prices ranging from 10,000 to 45,000 VND (approximately $0.20–$0.90 USD). With these features, Helio is an ideal and versatile destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience Da Nang’s vibrant nightlife.
17. Hoi An Day Trip
Hoi An is a historic port town located about 30 minutes south of Da Nang and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between the 15th and 19th centuries, the city engaged in active trade with countries such as China, Japan, Portugal, and India. It is noted for its yellow-painted houses, narrow streets, centuries-old temples, and the wooden Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu), which has stood since 1593 as both an architectural and cultural symbol. The city is known for its evening atmosphere glowing with colorful lanterns, boat tours on the river, and boutique workshops specializing in textiles, ceramics, and sushi-related crafts.
A half-day trip from Da Nang to Hoi An is quite easy—by taxi, car, or Grab, the journey takes about 30–45 minutes on average. Key places to visit include the Japanese Covered Bridge, historic market squares, temples such as the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Chinese Community Hall), and riverside walking paths in the morning or evening. Visitors can also taste local specialties such as Cao Lầu and take a boat ride on the river adorned with floating lanterns during the cool evening hours. This magical atmosphere, combined with handcrafted shopping, offers a true feeling of “walking through time.”
18. Amusement Park Games at Asia Park
Asia Park, now also known as “Da Nang Downtown” under Sun World Da Nang Wonders, is a massive amusement park catering to both city-center visitors and those seeking culture-themed entertainment. The park features five different roller coasters; the most notable include the family-friendly high-speed Paradise Fall by Intamin and the adrenaline-filled Queen Cobra inverted coaster by Vekoma. There are also gentler options like the Port of Sky Treasure-themed mine train, junior coasters such as Garuda Valley for children, and classic rides like carousels and swing drops.
The park’s brightest star is the Sun Wheel—a 115-meter-tall Ferris wheel offering panoramic views both day and night. With 64 cabins and a full rotation lasting about 15 minutes, it provides views of the city, Han River, and the South China Sea. At night, the wheel becomes a romantic visual spectacle illuminated by LED lights. Additionally, free-fall towers like Golden Sky Tower, monorails, carousels, adventurous rides like Highway Boat near Queen Cobra, and 10 themed zones representing Asian countries with cultural game areas make the park appealing to everyone from families with children to young thrill-seekers.
19. Thuan Phuoc Bridge
Thuan Phuoc Bridge (Cầu Thuận Phước), Vietnam’s longest suspension bridge, spans the mouth of the Han River between the Hải Châu and Sơn Trà districts of Đà Nẵng. Construction began in 2003, and the bridge was opened to traffic on July 19, 2009, after six years of building. Measuring 1,850 meters in length and 18 meters in width, the bridge offers a functional transportation structure with 4 lanes for vehicles, 2 pedestrian paths, and 2 bicycle lanes. Its main span is 405 meters, and the two main support towers reach a height of 80 meters.
Beyond being a functional structure, Thuan Phuoc stands as a powerful symbol. At night, it is adorned with colorful LED lights, transforming it into a visual spectacle along the Han River. With its strong aesthetic presence, the bridge not only facilitates local traffic but also reinforces Đà Nẵng’s image as a modern and youthful city. For those who enjoy sunset or night views over the river, the pedestrian paths on the bridge provide an excellent platform for photography and peaceful moments—offering unique reflections of sunlight and an eye-catching LED light system.
20. China Beach / Lang Co Beach
China Beach (My Khe Beach – also known as “China Beach”) is a long and beautiful stretch of coastline in Da Nang, famous for being a rest and recreation (R\&R) site during the Vietnam War. With its fine white sand, deep blue sea, and pristine nature, it is considered one of Vietnam’s most distinguished beaches. Known as “China Beach” by American soldiers, this area is part of My Khe Beach and reflects the post-war relaxation culture while also offering the pleasures of a modern beach experience today.
Lined with five-star hotels, water sports centers, beachfront cafés, and walking paths, the beach provides activities suited to all age groups and vacation styles. Surf schools, jet skiing, and sailing are among the top choices, while relaxing under the sun or watching the sunrise offers a unique sense of peace. For history enthusiasts, its role as a rest and rehabilitation location during the Vietnam War adds a distinctive dimension to this popular tourist beach.