4 Days in Da Nang: Ultimate Itinerary
Are you planning a trip to Da Nang and looking for a Da Nang Itinerary for 4 days?
I’ve got you covered with this ultimate 4 days in Da Nang adventures, include are the best things to do in Da Nang, where to eat in Da Nang, tips and so much more!
From must-visit landscapes like the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, to the rich cultural heritage sites in Hoi An, and Da Nang’s beaches of course, I’ve included all you need to know in this travel guide for Da Nang
In March 2024, I spent over a month in this lovely beachside city and got to know it quite well.
How Many Days in Da Nang
Plan to spend 3 to 5 days in Da Nang, there’s plenty to do in Da Nang and central Vietnam.
With that amount of time you’ll be able to experience most of what the beach city has to offer and you’ll be able to experience a day trip or two!
TIP: If you visit Da Nang on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, visit the famous Dragon Bridge at 9:00 PM. The city lights up the dragon with a 10-minute fire show!
Next to the Dragon Bridge is the bustling Con Market. This local market is overloaded with sights, sounds, and smells that will give you an authentic taste of daily life in Da Nang.
Don’t be shy – try some local snacks from the food stalls. I recommend the banh mi, a classic Vietnamese sandwich, and che (sweet dessert soup).
Day 1 in Da Nang
Morning & Afternoon: Arrival & My Khe Beach
Once you touch down at Da Nang International Airport, I recommend heading straight to your hotel to freshen up. To leave the airport, download and use the Grab app.
After a morning of settling in and a quick bite, I’ve included many restaurant recommendations below; it’s time to hit the beach!
My Khe Beach is often called “one of the most beautiful beaches in the world,” and I couldn’t agree more. The soft, golden sand stretches for miles, and the clear blue waters are incredibly inviting.
Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming in the warm waters of the East Sea, or trying your hand at some water sports. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard or take a beginner’s lesson – the waves here are perfect for novice surfers in Da Nang.
Evening: Han River Cruise
As the sun sets, embark on a romantic Han River cruise. These evening cruises typically start around 6:00 PM daily and offer a unique city perspective.
You’ll glide past illuminated bridges and buildings, creating a magical atmosphere. Many cruises include dinner, allowing you to savor local specialties while enjoying the sparkling cityscape.
Day 2 in Da Nang
Morning: Marble Mountains & Lady Buddha Adventure
Rise and shine early for a trip to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills just south of Da Nang. Each mountain is named after an element: water, wood, fire, metal, and earth. The most popular and accessible is Thuy Son (Water Mountain).
As you climb the steep steps (or take the elevator if you prefer), you’ll discover hidden caves, ancient pagodas, and stunning viewpoints.
Take advantage of the Huyen Khong Cave, where shafts of sunlight create an otherworldly atmosphere. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking – on a clear day, you can see the entire Da Nang coastline.
After roaming around the Marble Mountains, you’ll head to the famous Lady Buddha, standing at 67 meters tall. This impressive statue is visible from many parts of Da Nang. Throughout the compounds, you’ll experience panoramic views of the beach city skyline!
Afternoon & Evening: City Cente, Night Market & Amusement Park
Start your afternoon at the iconic Da Nang Cathedral, also known as the “Pink Church.” This Gothic-style cathedral is a unique architectural landmark and popular photo spot. Then head over to the APEC Park and walk around; shortly after, go to Banh Mi Ba Lan, one of the best Banh Mi shops in the city!
For lunch or dinner, I highly recommend you try mì Quảng, a local specialty of rice noodles in a savory peanut and pork or beef broth, available at many restaurants in the city center.
As evening approaches, head to the Khu Ẩm thực đêm Helio night market, it opens up at 5:30 PM. This vibrant market offers a wide array of street food, drinks, and entertainment. You can enjoy live music while trying many local dishes.
Finish off your night at the Da Nang Amusement Park, also known as Asia Park. This modern theme park features over 20 exciting rides and attractions, including a 115-meter-high Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views.
The park also hosts cultural events and music festivals, providing a fun-filled end to your third day in Da Nang.
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Day 3 in Da Nang
Full Day: Ba Na Hills Full-Day Trip
Today is dedicated to exploring the magical world of Ba Na Hills, a mountaintop attraction that feels like stepping into a European fairy tale. The journey begins with a ride on one of the world’s longest and highest cable cars. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the lush countryside below.
Your first stop should be the Golden Bridge, an architectural marvel that has become an Instagram sensation.
Walking along this 150-meter Golden Bridge held aloft by two giant stone hands is a surreal experience. The misty mountains in the background create an unforgettable, fantastic atmosphere.
Next, explore the charming French Village, a replica of a 19th-century French town complete with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and a Gothic-style cathedral. It’s like being transported to a different time and place!
For thrill-seekers, Ba Na Hills offers several exciting attractions. The Alpine Coaster is a must-try – it’s the longest single-track coaster in Southeast Asia. You control your speed as you zip through the forest, making it suitable for both adrenaline junkies and those who prefer a more leisurely ride.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the wine cellar to sample local and international wines. The flower gardens are also worth exploring, offering a riot of colors and fragrances.
Evening: Return to Da Nang
After a long day of exploration, you’ll want to take things nice and easy, considering that your next day is full of adventures as well!
Take a look on Google Maps, you’ll notice four streets by the beach named Ah Throng 1, Ah Throng 2, and Ah Throng 3. These charming, walkable streets have many restaurants, cafes, and bars to check out! Go for a walk and figure out what’s for dinner!
If you’re up for some dessert afterward, I recommend you try this local coconut ice cream shop on the side of the street!
Day 4 in Da Nang
Morning: Bai Tam Beach
Start your day with a relaxing Vietnamese breakfast at a local eatery in Da Nang. Opt for a steaming bowl of Pho at Pho Thin, then follow that up with strong Vietnamese iced coffee at a nearby cafe to kickstart your morning.
After breakfast, make your way to Bãi tắm Phạm Văn Đồng Beach for a tranquil morning by the sea. This beautiful stretch of coastline is just a short distance northbound from the central My Khe Beach, offering pristine white sand and clear blue waters.
As the morning progresses into early afternoon, you might want to indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.
Try local specialties like grilled fish or squid, accompanied by a cold drink to beat the heat. I recommend My Hanh Seafood, this restaurant is a city staple open since 1991.
Afternoon & Evening: Hoi An Ancient Town & Night Market
To end things with a bang, you’ll spend your last afternoon exploring the famous Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can either make your way there by taking a 45-minute taxi and creating your timeline or take a well-organized Hoi An tour from Da Nang to make things easier!
You can go through the narrow streets lined with yellow-walled buildings, many of which have been converted into charming cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.
Don’t miss the chance to visit some of the old merchant houses, like Tan Ky House, which offers a glimpse into the lives of wealthy traders from centuries past.
Hoi An transforms into a magical wonderland of colorful lanterns as the sun sets. The streets are closed to motorized traffic, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll. For dinner, I recommend trying one of the riverside restaurants.
Enjoy fresh seafood while watching the lanterns float down the river – it’s a mesmerizing sight that perfectly captures the romance of Hoi An. Before returning to Da Nang, participate in the tradition of releasing a lantern onto the river.
As you make a wish and watch your lantern float away, you’ll feel the magic of Hoi An and reflect on your incredible journey over the past four days in central Vietnam.
Where to Stay in Da Nang
Da Nang offers diverse accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. The city’s hotel scene includes everything from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious beachfront resorts.
Many hotels are concentrated along the coastline, particularly My Khe Beach, while others are scattered throughout the city center and surrounding areas. Below, I’ve shared a list of hotel recommendations!
Cheap / Hostels
Kon-Tiki Hostel: Located in Sơn Trà, Kon-Tiki offers affordable stays at around $9/night. Features include a city-view terrace, complimentary breakfast, and a bar. The hostel is known for its cleanliness and welcoming atmosphere.
Rom Casa Da Nang: Situated in Ngũ Hành Sơn, Rom Casa provides a slightly upscale hostel experience starting at $16/night. It is highly rated and popular among travelers for its comfort and amenities.
Mid-Range
Grand Sunrise Boutique Hotel: This budget-friendly option offers comfortable rooms and good value for money. Located in the city center, it provides easy access to local attractions.
FIVITEL King: A wallet-friendly choice with basic amenities and a convenient location. It’s suitable for travelers looking for a no-frills stay.
Luxury
InterContinental Da Nang: Nestled on Son Tra Peninsula, this luxurious resort offers stunning mountain and beach views. Known for world-class service, exquisite dining, and a blend of local heritage with modern luxury, it’s perfect for those seeking an unforgettable, high-end retreat in Da Nang.
Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa: This beachfront resort offers luxurious accommodations, multiple swimming pools, and excellent spa facilities. It’s ideal for those seeking a high-end beach getaway.
Best Restaurants in Da Nang
Da Nang’s restaurant scene offers a diverse culinary experience. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants specializing in local dishes like mì Quảng and bún chả cá.
Beyond Vietnamese cuisine, Da Nang also boasts international flavors, including Italian, Korean, Japanese, and Western options. From traditional eateries to trendy cafes and fusion restaurants, the city’s culinary landscape has something for everyone.
After spending over a month in Da Nang and eating out constantly, I’ve compiled a list of some restaurants I highly recommend. By the way, these aren’t in order!
Mì Quảng Dung – Noodle shop famous for Da Nang’s most-known dish, a steaming bowl of noodles with pork broth.
Korea BBQ House – This well-priced Korean BBQ restaurant’s flavors are very authentic.
Cây Me An Bàng – A small restaurant away from the main road serving all the Vietnamese classics, the restaurant owner is very friendly.
Bánh Mì Bà Đào – This spot is a local favorite; they serve all the Vietnamese classics. I loved their wide variety of Banh Mi options and noodle dishes.
L’Italiano Restaurant Danang – Known as Da Nang’s best Italian restaurant, you’ll find several pastas, pizzas, and other Italian classics here.
IRINI | GREEK RESTAURANT & BAR – Authentic Greek flavors serving gyros, moussaka, meat platters, and other Mediterranean flavors.
Roadhouse – Most known for its burgers, this restaurant & sports bar serves plenty of Western Food options.
Chân – Cánh Gà Nướng Hai Còi 08 – This place is as local as it can get; it’s located by the famous Dragon Bridge; they’re known for their charcoal grilled chicken wings and other excellent side dishes!
Getting Around Da Nang
- Grab Taxi or Scooter / Popular ride-sharing app in Southeast Asia.
- City Taxi / Taxis in the city are white, you’ll spot plenty of them around.
- Rent a Scooter or Motorcycle / Be careful when driving around Da Nang.
- Local Van Taxis / You’ll spot these long local van taxis by the beach you can take for a quick trip
Best Time to Visit Da Nang
Da Nang is fun to visit at any time of the year. However, most visitors prefer to visit during the dry season, as it’s a beach city!
Dry Season: January to July
The dry season in Da Nang is the best time to visit, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F).
You can expect plenty of sunshine, clear skies, and low humidity. The driest months are typically February to April.
Wet Season: August to December
Da Nang experiences sporadic rainfall during the wet season, with showers often in the afternoon. Temperatures remain warm, ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 33°C (91°F), but humidity levels are higher compared to the dry season.
The wettest months are typically October and November. It’s important to note that Da Nang’s weather can be pretty consistent during the dry season, with a high likelihood of sunny days. However, rainfall can be unpredictable during the wet season, with some days experiencing heavier downpours.
Consider the season you’ll visit when packing for your trip to Da Nang. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended during the dry season, while a light rain jacket or umbrella is a good idea during the wet season to protect yourself from the occasional showers.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy your trip to Da Nang and take advantage of all advantage of what this beautiful gem of a city has to offer!
I adored my time in Da Nang. The locals were friendly, and the city felt laid back and safe. Many ex-pats and digital nomads call Da Nang home, and I can see why: plenty of excellent accommodations, a city side, the beach, and mountains—Da Nang has it all!
For those who choose to visit Da Nang for longer than four days, I highly recommend spending a night or two in Hoi An rather than only visiting for the afternoon and evening. Hoi An, on its own, is worth visiting for longer!
Is 4 days in Da Nang enough?
Yes, 4 days is enough in Da Nang to experience most of the city’s offerings and experience one or two day trips from Da Nang!
How many days in Da Nang is enough?
Aim to spend at least 3 days in Da Nang. The city offers plenty to do with many exciting attractions, and you’ll want to fit in at least one or two days of relaxing at its famous My Khe Beach!
Why is Da Nang so popular?
Da Nang is Vietnam’s largest central city, famous for its stunning coastline, entire resorts, plenty of beach space, and excellent seafood restaurants!
Is Da Nang a walkable city?
Yes, Da Nang is walkable. The city has different areas, and each area has its markets, restaurants, apartments, and other amenities.
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