Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Da Nang & Hoi An: A Complete 11-Day Travel Guide
My recent trip to Da Nang and Hoi An was truly unforgettable. These two cities in Vietnam are popular among travelers for good reason, but they each have a unique charm that makes exploring both totally worth it.
Over 11 days, I had the chance to experience the best of what these places have to offer, and I’m excited to share my top 10 must-visit spots with you!
1. Ba Na Hills Sun World – Ride the Longest Cable Car to the Sky
Located about 40 minutes outside of Da Nang, Ba Na Hills was one of the highlights of my trip. Originally built as a French resort, it’s now a full-blown theme park with something for everyone. The ride up the mountain on the cable car was incredible! It’s the longest cable car ride in the world, and the views of the surrounding forest and mountains were breathtaking.
Once at the top, I was greeted by the famous Golden Bridge, held up by two giant hands. The bridge has become a social media sensation, and for good reason—it’s absolutely stunning. And while you’re there, don’t miss the French Village with its charming European architecture and fun attractions like the Fantasy Park. It’s the perfect spot to spend the day.
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| Vietnam danang bana hill |
2. Nui Than Tai Hot Springs – Relax in Nature
After a few days of exploring, Nui Than Tai Hot Springs was the perfect place to unwind. Just a 30-minute drive from Da Nang, this place offers natural hot springs and a huge water park, so you can mix relaxation with some fun. There were barely any lines, which made it even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, this is the spot.
3. Marble Mountains – Explore Caves and Temples
The Marble Mountains are one of Da Nang’s iconic landmarks, and they did not disappoint. These five limestone and marble hills are filled with caves, temples, and stunning viewpoints. I took the elevator up and was greeted with fresh air and panoramic views of the city and the ocean. The caves inside the mountains were mystical, and the natural light shining through cracks in the rock made the whole place feel magical.
4. Han River Cruise – A Romantic Night View
One of the best ways to experience Da Nang at night is by taking a Han River cruise. The boat ride was around 50 minutes, giving me plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful lights of the city. The highlight of the cruise was definitely the Dragon Bridge fire show. On Friday and Saturday nights, the dragon spits fire and water, which is a fun and unique experience. Make sure to bring a jacket though, the breeze from the river can get a little chilly!
5. Da Nang Cathedral (Pink Cathedral) – Perfect Photo Spot
Da Nang’s Pink Cathedral is a charming little spot right in the heart of the city. The French colonial-era church is known for its pastel pink exterior, making it a popular place for photos. I stopped by on a rainy afternoon, but even with the gloomy weather, it looked beautiful. It’s a quick visit, but if you’re in the area, it’s worth snapping a few pics.
6. Sun World Asia Park – Fun for All Ages
If you’re a fan of theme parks, Sun World Asia Park is a must-visit. Located right in the city, this park has a mix of cultural attractions and thrill rides. I had a blast riding the Ferris Wheel, which gave me an amazing view of Da Nang from above, especially at night when the city lights up. It’s a great place for families or anyone looking for a bit of fun in the city.
7. Dragon Bridge Fire Show – A Da Nang Icon
No trip to Da Nang would be complete without seeing the Dragon Bridge in action. This bridge is one of Da Nang’s most famous landmarks, and every weekend at 9 PM, the dragon breathes fire and water! The show only lasts about 15 minutes, but it draws a huge crowd. If you’re near the waterfront, it’s a great way to end your night.
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| Vietnam danang DRAGON BRIDGE |
8. Hoi An Ancient Town – A Walk Through Time
Hoi An was like stepping back in time. The Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its well-preserved architecture made me feel like I was walking through a postcard. At night, the streets come alive with glowing lanterns, making it one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. While you’re there, don’t miss the lantern boat ride where you can float a lantern down the river—a magical experience!
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| Vietnam danang hoi an oldtown |
9. Basket Boat Tour in An Bang Beach – A Fun Coastal Experience
About 15 minutes from Hoi An’s Old Town, I had the chance to do a basket boat tour at An Bang Beach. These round, woven boats are iconic in Vietnam, and the tour was so much fun. Our guide sang songs, took photos for us, and even performed a little boat-spinning trick in the water. It was a quirky but fun way to spend the afternoon, and the coastal views were beautiful.
10. Japanese Covered Bridge – Hoi An’s Historic Bridge
Lastly, I visited the famous Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An. This bridge was built in the 17th century to connect the Japanese and Chinese communities, and it’s one of Hoi An’s most photographed spots. While it’s currently undergoing restoration, it’s still a must-see landmark if you’re in the area.