Da Nang is one of the best coastal cities in Vietnam, which is not just perfect for beachside activities but also exists as a beautiful blend of natural landscapes, rich cultural and historical heritage and modern architecture. There are a lot of different things to do in Da Nang, regardless of whether you want to engage in adventure activities, do some sightseeing, shop at the local markets, admire the natural beauty or even indulge in the delicious native cuisine. From the gorgeous ancient pagodas and incredible natural landscapes to the busy markets selling mouthwatering delicacies and handcrafted goods, Da Nang has it all.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the different activities you can engage yourself in while visiting this wonderful coastal city.
Da Nang has a vibrant cultural past, as seen in its temples, pagodas, and historical landmarks. Tour the world-famous Marble Mountains, an assortment of five marble hills covered in caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries. Walk to Linh Ung Pagoda atop Son Tra Peninsula, featuring the magnificent Lady Buddha statue and beautiful views. Those interested in history will appreciate the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, the world's largest collection of Cham relics. Finally, don't forget the legendary Dragon Bridge, a blend of tradition and contemporary engineering, with fire and water displays honoring the city's past and present.
Being a coastal city, Da Nang is known for its splendid beaches, making it the perfect destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. My Khe Beach is one of the most gorgeous beaches in the country, having golden and soft sand shores and crystal clear waters, allowing tourists to swim, surf and jet ski, making it one of the best things to do in Da Nang Vietnam. You can later unwind at the beachfront cafes and seafood restaurants and enjoy your meals with wonderful views. For a quieter and more peaceful experience, you can visit Non Nuoc Beach, which is located near the Marble Mountains, offering calm waters for those who want to go paddleboarding and snorkelling. If you are a thrill seeker, then you will enjoy visiting the Son Tra Peninsula, where you get to go kayaking along the coast, explore the hidden caves, or take a boat trip and spot the rare red-shanked douc langurs.
Da Nang offers a variety of shopping options for all the visitors, from busy and quaint traditional markets to modern shopping complexes. Han Market is one of the most famous marketplaces in the city, where you can find everything from handcrafted goods, fresh produce and souvenirs to commemorate your trip and also get to bargain your way to getting quality goods, which is part of the shopping experience. Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village is the ideal place to shop for unique souvenirs, where you can find gorgeous and intricate sculptures and jewellery crafted by skilled artisans which are made from marble and other natural stones. If shopping complexes are more your scene, then you must visit Vincom Plaza and Lotte Mart, which offer a large variety of international brands, high-end quality products, local fashion boutiques and even entertainment to enjoy after shopping.
You cannot miss out on experiencing the nightlife while visiting this coastal city, which offers a mix of energetic bars, rooftop lounges and cultural performances. Bach Dang Street along the Han River is the most popular and happening nightlife spot where you can find everything from cocktail bars to lively night markets. If you are looking for a sophisticated night, the Sky36, one of the highest rooftop bars in the country, is highly recommended, whereas the Han River cruise is for those who want to enjoy a peaceful dinner while enjoying traditional music and remarkable views of the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks.
This city’s street food scene is definitely one of the most imperative and delightful things to do in Da Nang City, as it is full of delicious, flavourful and fresh seafood, noodles and other local delicacies. The top dish to try is Mi Quang, a regional noodle dish made with turmeric-infused rice noodles, herbs, peanuts, and served with a rich and savoury broth. Another delicacy is the Bun Cha Ca, a fish cake noodle soup, which is a healthy yet flavourful dish served with grilled fish. If you are a seafood lover, then make sure to visit Nam O Beach Seafood Village, where you get to taste freshly caught seafood, which is grilled, steamed, or prepared in Vietnamese-style hot pots. Finally, do not miss out on Banh Xeo, which is found at the traditional markets near Han River, a crispy Vietnamese pancake made with stuffed shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.