Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural sites, and modern infrastructure. Just a short journey away, Ba Na Hills offers a unique mountaintop experience featuring panoramic views, whimsical architecture, and a cooler climate.
Together, these destinations provide an unforgettable mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion for all types of travelers.
Da Nang Travel Guide: Best Things to See and Do
My Khe Beach: Da Nang’s Top Coastal Attraction
My Khe Beach is one of the most famous stretches of sand in Vietnam. Its long shoreline, soft white sand, and gentle waves make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Moreover, the area is lined with seafood restaurants serving fresh, local dishes.
In the early morning, you can see local fishermen returning with their catch, offering a glimpse into Da Nang’s traditional way of life.
Marble Mountains: Spiritual and Scenic Landmark in Da Nang
Located just outside the city center, the Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone hills, each representing an element: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Visitors can explore a network of caves, tunnels, pagodas, and viewpoints.
Climbing the main mountain, Thuy Son, rewards you with panoramic views of both the coastline and the city. This site is deeply spiritual, featuring Buddhist sanctuaries carved into the stone.
Dragon Bridge: Icon of Modern Da Nang
The Dragon Bridge spans the Han River and is one of Da Nang’s most striking modern landmarks. Shaped like a dragon, it symbolizes power, prosperity, and transformation.
Every weekend, the bridge comes to life with a fire and water show, drawing crowds of locals and tourists. It is best viewed at night, when the LED lights reflect off the river and create a dazzling scene.
Son Tra Peninsula: Nature Escape in Da Nang
The Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, is home to rare wildlife, secluded beaches, and lush jungle trails. It offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle, with opportunities to hike, swim, and observe wildlife such as the endangered red-shanked douc langur.
At the summit, you will find the Linh Ung Pagoda, featuring Vietnam’s tallest statue of the Lady Buddha, which stands 67 meters tall and overlooks the sea..
Ba Na Hills: A Mountain Retreat Near Da Nang
The Golden Bridge: A Surreal Experience Above the Clouds
The Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills is supported by two giant stone hands, creating one of the most photographed scenes in Vietnam. Suspended 1,400 meters above sea level, the bridge offers incredible views of the surrounding forests and distant mountains.
Visitors often describe the experience as walking through the sky, especially when the area is blanketed by morning mist.
French Village: A Taste of Europe in Central Vietnam
Situated at the summit of Ba Na Hills, the French Village replicates European architecture with cobblestone streets, pointed towers, and Gothic-style buildings. Inspired by the French colonial era, it offers a whimsical break from traditional Vietnamese design.
This area also features cafés, bakeries, and gardens, making it a pleasant place to stroll and take photos.
Ba Na Hills Cable Car: Scenic Journey from the Lowlands
The journey to Ba Na Hills begins with a ride on the world’s longest non-stop single-track cable car, which stretches nearly six kilometers. As you ascend, you can enjoy views of tropical forests, waterfalls, and the South China Sea.
This ride is not only a means of transport but also a highlight of the trip, offering a memorable experience before you even reach the top.
Fantasy Park: Family Fun and Indoor Entertainment
Fantasy Park is Vietnam’s largest indoor amusement center, offering activities for all ages. Attractions include roller coasters, arcade games, a wax museum, and VR experiences. For families or travelers looking for entertainment on a rainy day, this venue adds extra value to a Ba Na Hills visit.
Linh Ung Pagoda at Ba Na Hills
Distinct from the Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula, this version is located within the Ba Na Hills complex. Surrounded by mountains, it features peaceful gardens and a 27-meter-tall seated Buddha statue that faces the forested landscape.
How to Get to Da Nang and Ba Na Hills
Da Nang is accessible via direct flights from major cities in Vietnam and abroad. The international airport is just minutes from the city center.
To reach Ba Na Hills, travelers can hire a private car, take a taxi, or join an organized tour. The journey takes about 40 minutes and includes transport to the base of the cable car station.
Staying overnight in the Ba Na Hills resort area is possible, though most travelers choose to visit on a day trip.
Why Visit Da Nang and Ba Na Hills in Central Vietnam?
Few destinations in Vietnam offer the same diversity as Da Nang and Ba Na Hills. From sandy beaches to cool mountain air, from spiritual temples to futuristic bridges, the region has something for everyone.
You can relax on My Khe Beach, explore the caves of the Marble Mountains, marvel at the Golden Bridge, and walk through a French-style village, all in the same trip. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper experience, this region of Vietnam promises both inspiration and relaxation.
For updated travel tips and guides, visit the official tourism portal: Da Nang Fantasticity.
Continue Exploring Vietnam
If you are visiting Da Nang, consider adding these nearby destinations to your itinerary:
Ha Long Bay – Cruise through limestone karsts in the north
Hoi An – Explore lantern-lit streets and ancient heritage in this UNESCO-listed town
Hue – Discover imperial citadels and historic pagodas
Con Dao – Escape to remote beaches and protected marine parks