Da Nang in Vietnam

Da Nang city lies in the Midlands of Viet Nam, from which Ha Noi capitol in the north and Ho Chi Minh city in the south are almost equally spaced. Da Nang is also the central point connecting three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Hue Citadel, Hoi An ancient town and My Son Sanctuary.

Da Nang borders Thua Thien Hue province in the north, Quang Nam province in the west and south, and the East Sea in the east. The city is located in the middle of the country, on north – south trunk roads on road, rail, sea and air and lies at one end of the East–West Economic Corridor, an economic corridor connecting Vietnam with Laos, Thailand, and Burma (Myanmar).

The city has an area of 1156.53 km ² consists of 06 urban districts (Hai Chau, Thanh Khe, Lien Chieu, Ngu Hanh Son, Son Tra, Cam Le) and Hoa Vang rural district, the Hoang Sa island district, with a population of 942 132 inhabitants (as of to 31/11/2010).

Local time: UTC + 07:00

MUST-VISIT PLACES IN DA NANG

1. Ba Na Hill (Bà Nà Hills)

For a family-friendly day outing, head to Bà Nà Hills. This hilltop resort in the Trường Sơn Mountains is a 40-minute drive west of Da Nang. Originally established by the French in 1919 as a resort, most of the villas were destroyed during the war, but the Debay Wine Cellar still remains.

To make the most of your visit, purchase tickets in advance to skip the queues. Your entry includes a round-trip on the impressive cable cars that take you up and down the mountain. Once there, you'll find plenty to see and do at the themed, castle-like Sun World Amusement Park. You can stroll through beautiful flower gardens, explore the French village, visit the Linh Ung temple, or enjoy various games and attractions at the amusement park.

2. Golden Bridge

A highlight of Bà Nà Hills is the famed Golden Bridge.

Prepare to embark on an enchanting journey as you step onto the Golden Bridge, a mesmerizing marvel that has captured the hearts of visitors worldwide. Spanning an impressive 150 meters in length, this iconic bridge is adorned with two majestic hands, delicately cradling its gleaming walkway.

As you traverse this architectural masterpiece, you'll feel as though you're walking on a golden ribbon, suspended amidst the clouds, offering a truly ethereal experience. Renowned for its unique design, the Golden Bridge has become a symbol of artistic ingenuity and innovation.

Despite its popularity, the Golden Bridge remains a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to capture unforgettable moments. To savor the bridge's serene beauty without the hustle and bustle of crowds, consider planning your visit during the early hours of the day. Don't miss the opportunity to witness firsthand the magic and magnificence of Vietnam's Golden Bridge.

3. My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach, located in Da Nang, Vietnam, is one of the most stunning beaches in the country. Known for its long stretch of white sandy shore, clear blue waters, and gentle waves, it offers a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing and jet-skiing.

My Khe Beach is also famous for its vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of beachfront cafes, restaurants, and bars where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine. The beach is easily accessible from Da Nang city center and is popular among both locals and tourists.

In addition to its natural beauty, My Khe Beach boasts beautiful sunrise and sunset views, making it a great place for photography and romantic walks. Whether you're looking for a peaceful day by the sea or exciting water activities, My Khe Beach is a must-visit destination in Da Nang.

4. Son Tra Peninsula (Sơn Trà Peninsula)

Sơn Trà Peninsula, located in Da Nang, Vietnam, is a beautiful tourist destination popular among nature lovers and adventurers. This area offers stunning beaches, forests, and breathtaking views. Key attractions include:

- Linh Ung Pagoda: Home to one of Vietnam's largest statues, the Lady Buddha, which stands 67 meters tall.

- Ban Co Peak: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of Da Nang city and its beaches.

- Dong Dinh Museum: A museum showcasing traditional Vietnamese culture.

- Beaches: Pristine beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Sơn Trà Peninsula is a fantastic destination where you can enjoy natural scenery and experience the traditional culture of Vietnam simultaneously.

5. The Marble Mountains

A short drive from the city, on the way to Hội An, lies the Marble Mountains. This cluster comprises five limestone and marble formations, each named after one of the five elements: Thuy (water), Moc (wood), Kim (metal), Hoa (fire), and Tho (earth).

Ascending the many steps leads you to a series of sacred sites nestled within the mountains. Pagodas and shrines dot the landscape, offering visitors a chance to explore the spiritual significance of the area. Inside the caves, intricate sculptures and statues adorn the walls, creating an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation.

Moreover, aside from the spiritual aspect, the Marble Mountains offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the azure sea.

Once you descend to ground level, explore the souvenir shops lining the base of the mountains. Here, you can find a variety of unique keepsakes and handicrafts, perfect for commemorating your visit to this culturally significant and visually stunning destination.

6. The Dragon Bridge on Han River

Among the many stunning suspension bridges across Vietnam, Da Nang proudly boasts the longest of them all: the Dragon Bridge. Spanning six lanes, this state-of-the-art bridge features a remarkable dragon structure that has become a source of local pride. In Vietnamese culture, dragons symbolize growth and the nation's power, adding profound significance to this architectural marvel.

As night falls, the dragon comes alive in a mesmerizing display of LED lights, illuminating the bridge with vibrant colors. But the real spectacle unfolds on Saturday and Sunday nights at 9 pm, when the dragon breathes fire and water, captivating onlookers with its dynamic performance. For the best views of the show, venture onto the bridge itself, or relax at a café along Trần Hưng Đạo Street. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Sơn Trà night market below, where you can enjoy the spectacle while indulging in local snacks and treats. Don't miss the chance to witness the magic of the Dragon Bridge, a symbol of Da Nang's vibrant culture and spirit.