48 Hours in Da Nang: Best Things to Do, Eat and See in Vietnam’s Coastal Gem
Tucked between the historic charm of Hoi An and the imperial grandeur of Hue, Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s most underrated destinations. It’s a city where golden beaches meet urban energy, where ancient temples sit just beyond glossy modern bridges, and where the scent of sizzling street food lingers in the warm coastal air. In just 48 hours, you can scale marble peaks, zip over jungle-covered mountain passes, tuck into regional noodle dishes, and still find time to catch a sunset with your feet in the sand.
Whether you're passing through on a north-south Vietnam itinerary or flying in for a weekend escape, Da Nang offers a slice of everything that makes this country so compelling — with fewer crowds and more local flavour. From daybreak hikes to fire-breathing bridges, this guide has everything you need to make the most of two unforgettable days in Vietnam’s coastal gem.
About Da Nang
Straddling the halfway point between Vietnam’s bustling north and tropical south, Da Nang is a city in flux — and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling. Once a quiet coastal town, it has evolved into one of the country’s fastest-growing urban centres, with sleek bridges, a revitalised riverfront, and an ever-expanding skyline. Yet for all its development, Da Nang still feels distinctly local, rooted in its beachy charm and cultural depth.
The city sits on a gentle curve of coastline, with the Han River running through its heart and the misty Annamite Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. On one side, you’ll find modern cafés, glitzy hotels and rooftop bars; on the other, sleepy fishing boats bobbing off My Khe Beach, incense-filled temples, and street vendors dishing out age-old recipes.
Da Nang is home to around 1.2 million people, but it doesn’t feel overwhelming. The traffic is milder than in Hanoi or Saigon, the air fresher, and the pace of life more relaxed. It’s long been a favourite among domestic tourists for its clean beaches and family-friendly vibe, and in recent years, international travellers have started catching on — especially those seeking a slower, more balanced slice of Vietnam.
It also helps that Da Nang is perfectly positioned. Just 30 minutes from Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and around two hours from Hue’s imperial tombs, it makes a great base for exploring central Vietnam. But there’s more than enough to keep you busy within the city limits, whether you’re climbing marble peaks, riding a motorbike over the legendary Hai Van Pass, or tucking into a bowl of mi quang straight off a pavement stool.
In short, Da Nang is where city energy meets coastal calm — a place to surf in the morning, sip iced coffee in the afternoon, and watch dragons breathe fire by night. Spend 48 hours here and you’ll quickly see why it’s becoming one of Vietnam’s most liveable — and loveable — cities.
Temple in Da Nang, Vietnam.
Day One: Urban Pulse and Riverside Vibes
Morning: Marble Mountains and Coffee Views
Start your Da Nang adventure with a morning visit to the Marble Mountains — a cluster of five limestone and marble peaks just south of the city. Each mountain is named after one of the five elements, but Thuy Son (Water Mountain) is the star of the show. Climb the stone steps or take the lift to the top, where you’ll find a maze of pagodas, caves, tunnels and panoramic views over the coastline.
Don’t miss Huyen Khong Cave, a dramatic space where sunlight filters through the roof and spotlights ancient statues. The scent of incense and the sound of distant gongs give the place an almost otherworldly calm.
After descending, cool off with an iced coconut coffee at a nearby café. Many local spots near the base of the mountain serve excellent Vietnamese drip coffee — strong, sweet, and just what you’ll need for the day ahead.
Afternoon: Museum Wanders and Market Buzz
Head back into the city for a dose of history at the Cham Museum. This underrated gem houses the world’s largest collection of Cham sculptures, offering a window into the Hindu-influenced culture that once dominated central Vietnam. Even if you're not a museum buff, the intricate carvings and peaceful setting make it worth a stop.
Next, head over to Han Market, one of Da Nang’s busiest local markets. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, try strange fruits, or grab a quick bite — look for vendors selling mi quang, the region’s signature turmeric noodle dish topped with shrimp, herbs and crushed peanuts. This is Da Nang at its most chaotic and authentic.
Evening: Dragon Bridge and Riverside Dining
As the sun sets, stroll along the Han River promenade toward the city’s most iconic landmark — the Dragon Bridge. Shaped like a golden dragon stretching across the water, it lights up in dazzling colours every night. If you're in town on a weekend, stick around for the 9PM fire and water show when the dragon breathes flames and mist — a surreal sight against the night sky.
Wrap up your evening with fresh seafood by My Khe Beach. Restaurants along the coast serve everything from grilled scallops and steamed clams to whole fish cooked in banana leaves. If you’re in the mood for something livelier, check out rooftop bars or craft beer joints back in the city centre. Da Nang’s nightlife is low-key but growing — perfect for a chilled end to a full first day.
My Khe Beach, Da Nang.
Day Two: Nature and Coastal Escape
Morning: Hai Van Pass Adventure
Start early and head north for one of Vietnam’s most iconic drives: the Hai Van Pass. Winding through the Truong Son Mountains with sweeping views of the South China Sea, this stretch of coastal road is legendary — and for good reason. Whether you rent a motorbike or join a Jeep tour, the 21km pass offers hairpin turns, misty mountaintops, and breathtaking viewpoints that’ll have you stopping every few minutes.
At the summit, take a break at the old French and American bunkers for panoramic views and a glimpse into the area’s wartime history. If you’ve got time (and stamina), continue down toward Lang Co Bay — a peaceful stretch of water with white sand and a few seafood shacks perfect for a mid-morning snack.
Not keen on driving? No problem — many local operators offer guided half-day tours that hit the highlights without the stress of navigating.
Afternoon: Beach Time and Local Bites
Back in Da Nang, recharge with some downtime on the beach. My Khe Beach is the most accessible — a long, clean stretch with warm waves and a handful of sunbeds for hire. If you’re after something quieter, head further south to Non Nuoc Beach, where the sands are softer and the crowds thinner.
For lunch, go local. Try banh xeo (crispy rice pancakes with pork and shrimp), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls with herbs and prawns), or dig into a Vietnamese-style BBQ. Many beachside restaurants serve incredible food at very reasonable prices — think plastic chairs, ice-cold beer, and unbeatable flavour.
Late Afternoon: Linh Ung Pagoda and Lady Buddha
No trip to Da Nang is complete without visiting the towering Lady Buddha, standing serenely atop the Son Tra Peninsula. At 67 metres, it’s the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam and visible from almost anywhere in the city. The surrounding Linh Ung Pagoda complex is a peaceful place to wander, with bonsai gardens, marble dragon statues, and stunning coastal views.
Time it right and you’ll catch golden hour washing over the city — a magical end to your day of exploration.
Evening: Sunset Drinks and Street Food Crawl
As the day winds down, grab a drink at one of Da Nang’s rooftop bars or beachfront cafes. Try Sky 36 or Brilliant Top Bar for skyline views, or head to Esco Beach Bar or Naman Retreat’s beach lounge for sunset cocktails with your feet in the sand.
For your final dinner, dive into the lively Helio Night Market, where dozens of stalls serve everything from grilled oysters and mango salad to Vietnamese pizza (banh trang nuong). Feeling brave? Sample local delicacies like balut (fertilised duck egg) or a sweet cup of che — Vietnam’s much-loved mix of puddings, jellies and coconut cream.
End your 48 hours with a riverside walk, or stumble upon some open-air dancing and live music in the city’s public parks — a heartwarming reminder of Da Nang’s laid-back, joyful soul.
Dragon Bridge, Da Nang.
Travel Tips for Da Nang
How to Get There
Da Nang is a major transport hub in central Vietnam, making it easy to reach from almost anywhere in the country — or even from abroad. Da Nang International Airport (DAD) receives regular domestic flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Can Tho, as well as international routes from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Seoul, and Tokyo.
If you're travelling overland, trains from Hue, Nha Trang, or even Hanoi follow Vietnam’s scenic Reunification Express line and offer a comfortable, slow-travel alternative. Buses and private car transfers are common too, especially if you’re coming from Hoi An (just 45 minutes away).
Getting Around the City
Da Nang is easy to navigate. Most travellers use Grab, Vietnam’s ride-hailing app, for affordable and safe transport. If you're comfortable on two wheels, motorbike rentals are everywhere and cost around £4–5 (€4.50–6) per day. Always wear a helmet and check local traffic laws.
For shorter distances, bicycles and e-scooters can be a fun option, especially near the beachside areas. Walking is pleasant along the river and beach promenades, but less ideal for long distances due to the heat.
Best Time to Visit
Da Nang has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm temperatures year-round.
February to May is the sweet spot — expect dry skies, sunny days, and average highs around 28°C (82°F).
June to August brings hotter temperatures and more crowds.
September to November is rainy season — lush and green, but prone to storms.
December to January is cooler and drier, but the sea may be too cold for swimming.
Money and Currency
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND). At time of writing, £1 = ~31,000 VND (€1 = ~27,000 VND). While cash is still king at markets and street stalls, many hotels, restaurants, and cafés accept cards. ATMs are widely available, especially in the city centre and near beaches.
Always carry some small notes for tuk-tuks, market purchases, and tips. You might also find better rates for currency exchange in town than at the airport.
Language and Communication
While English is spoken at most hotels and restaurants, it’s useful to learn a few Vietnamese basics:
Xin chào – Hello
Cảm ơn – Thank you
Bao nhiêu? – How much?
Không cay – Not spicy
Locals appreciate the effort, and even basic phrases go a long way in markets and family-run spots.
Safety and Health
Da Nang is considered one of Vietnam’s safest cities for travellers. Petty crime is rare, but always keep valuables close in crowded markets or buses.
Use Grab instead of unlicensed taxis to avoid scams
Wear reef-safe sunscreen and drink plenty of water
Be cautious when crossing roads — motorbike traffic doesn’t always stop
Pack a basic first-aid kit and check your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents if you’re riding
Connectivity and SIM Cards
Wi-Fi is excellent across Da Nang — even beach cafés and smaller guesthouses offer strong, fast connections. Perfect if you're working remotely or uploading travel content.
You can also grab a local SIM card with generous data plans at the airport or any corner store. Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone are all reliable options. Expect to pay around £5–8 (€6–9) for a month of data-heavy usage.
Da Nang, Vietnam.
What to Pack for 48 Hours in Da Nang
Essentials for the Weather
Lightweight clothing – think linen, cotton, and breathable fabrics
Swimwear – for the beach and hotel pools
Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat – the sun can be intense
Flip-flops or sandals – great for beach days and casual outings
Light jumper or scarf – for windy evenings or air-conditioned buses
For Activities and Sightseeing
Sturdy shoes or trainers – useful for Marble Mountains and Hai Van Pass stops
Daypack or small backpack – handy for short day trips
Reusable water bottle – refill stations are common and eco-friendly
Camera or smartphone with charger – Dragon Bridge fire show = Instagram gold
Notebook or translation app – useful in more local eateries or markets
Health and Safety Items
Mosquito repellent – especially useful near water or after sunset
Reef-safe sunscreen – protects your skin and Da Nang’s beautiful coastline
Travel insurance docs – including coverage for scooters if you plan to ride
Small first aid kit – plasters, painkillers, motion sickness pills, etc.
Face mask – optional but still handy for dust or motorbike rides
Optional but Helpful
International Driver’s Permit (IDP) – legally required for motorbike rental
Power bank – long days out can drain your phone fast
Rain poncho – especially handy from September to November
Cash in small denominations – helpful in markets and street food spots
Da Nang, Viernam.
With golden coastlines, misty mountain passes, sizzling street food and just the right amount of urban buzz, Da Nang is a city that surprises and delights at every turn. In just 48 hours, you can explore ancient caves, watch a dragon breathe fire, cruise along winding cliffside roads, and feast on central Vietnam’s most iconic dishes — all without the chaos of the country’s bigger cities.
Whether it’s your first stop in Vietnam or part of a longer central coast itinerary, Da Nang offers a rare mix of accessibility, natural beauty and cultural depth. It’s the kind of place you plan to pass through — and end up wishing you’d stayed longer.
