Top 10 Reasons to Visit Da Nang - Hoi An This Summer

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Da Nang is set to come alive once again from June to August with an array of captivating cultural and artistic festivals. One of the major events is the 'Take me to the Sun' series, sponsored and organized by Sun Group, which is expected to turn Da Nang into the hottest summer destination in Vietnam.

Carnival Sunfest 2022

The opening event of Da Nang's Summer Festival 2022, Carnival Sunfest, will run every Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM, from June 25 to July 24, 2022. The carnival procession will start at Tran Thi Ly Bridge and end at the southwest park of the Dragon Bridge. Highlighting this event are the street parade performances, where visitors can see a colorful display of floats representing iconic Vietnamese landmarks like the Cham Museum, Dragon Bridge, Golden Bridge, Sun Wheel, and more.

Music Festival "Take me to the Sun"

Following the carnival is the 'Take me to the Sun' music festival, bringing together popular artists from various genres, including Pop, Rock, Hip-hop, and EDM. The festival will feature large-scale performances across Da Nang, with venues by the Han River, street parties in An Thuong, and shows at My An beach. Visitors can also enjoy exciting acts like the 'Battle of the Moon Kingdom' at Sun World Ba Na Hills, along with DJ shows, street performances, and much more.

Enjoy Da Nang Delicacies

The Da Nang Delicacy theme will immerse visitors in a world of local flavors. The East Sea Park will host traditional food stalls and international beer booths in early July, with special appearances from celebrity chefs like the runner-up of MasterChef Vietnam 2015. Additionally, the 'B'estival' food and beer festival at Sun World Ba Na Hills will feature a wide range of global delicacies, including German beer and various Western foods like sausages, cheese, and roasted chicken, ensuring that food enthusiasts have an unforgettable experience.

The Battle of the Moon Kingdom

A must-see attraction at Sun World Ba Na Hills, the 'Battle of the Moon Kingdom' show will run from April 30 to August 2022. Over 160 performers, both local and international, will deliver stunning dance and music performances, all designed to showcase the grandeur of the Moon Kingdom with extravagant costumes, impressive choreography, and a compelling storyline.

Beaches

Located in central Vietnam, Da Nang boasts a unique natural landscape, and it is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Famous beaches include My Khe, Pham Van Dong, Bac My An, Non Nuoc, Thanh Binh, Nam O, and Tien Sa. The beaches are typically peaceful in the mornings, with the most visitors arriving in the cool afternoons to avoid the harsh sun. If you prefer a quiet, sunny beach experience, visiting early in the morning around 4 or 5 AM offers the perfect chance to enjoy the sunrise while swimming in the refreshing waters.

Mountains

Da Nang is also home to several prominent mountains, making the city a true haven for nature lovers. The three most famous peaks are:

• Mount Ba Na: Situated in the Ba Na-Nui Chua Nature Reserve, this mountain is the most stunning in Da Nang, located 20 kilometers west of the city center.
• Son Tra Mountain: Known as the 'Mountain of the Fairies,' Son Tra is bordered by the sea on three sides and the city on the fourth, making it the only place in Vietnam where a natural forest ecosystem meets the ocean.
• Marble Mountains: Situated southeast of the city, about 8 kilometers from the center, the Marble Mountains consist of five peaks named after the five elements: Thuy (Water), Kim (Metal), Hoa (Fire), Tho (Earth), and Moc (Wood). This area is known for its mystical atmosphere, temples, caves, and scenic beauty, making it a top destination for tourists in Da Nang.

Da Nang:

• Iconic Bridges of Da Nang:
  • Dragon Bridge: Famous for its fire and water show every weekend night, stretching 666 meters.
  • Han River Bridge: The only rotating bridge in Vietnam.
  • Thuan Phuoc Bridge: The longest suspension bridge in Vietnam.
  • Tran Thi Ly Bridge: Designed to resemble a sail reaching out into the ocean.
  • Golden Bridge: Stretching 150 meters, located 1,414 meters above sea level at Ba Na Hills, this golden ribbon-like bridge is held up by giant, moss-covered hands.
  • Love Bridge: A popular spot for couples, decorated with red heart-shaped lights, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere.

• Thuan Phuoc Field: A picturesque space blending classic and modern European design, this spot is a popular choice for wedding photo shoots. The entrance fee is around 200,000 VND per person, with free entry for children under 1.2 meters.
• Chicken Church: A spiritual landmark with unique architecture and historical significance to Da Nang's locals.
• Da Nang Administrative Building: The tallest structure in central Vietnam, shaped like a lighthouse, overlooking the Han River and costing over 2,300 billion VND.
• 3D TrickEye Museum: Ranked as the sixth-largest 3D museum in the world, this 3,000m2 attraction features various themed zones. The entry fee ranges from 100,000 to 140,000 VND per adult, with free entry for children under 1 meter.
• World Wonders Park: A park showcasing replicas of famous Western landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Eiffel Tower, Great Wall of China, and a windmill.
• Upside Down World Da Nang: A quirky attraction where visitors can explore rooms designed to disorient the senses. Ticket prices range from 70,000 to 130,000 VND per adult, with free entry for children under 1 meter.
• Son Tra Peninsula: Located at the peak of the mountain with stunning views of the sea, home to Linh Ung Pagoda, a bougainvillea-lined path, and a solitary fig tree.
• Children's Cultural Center: Spanning 33,000m2, this expansive space features various sections for exploration and photography, with no entry fee.

Hoi An:

• VinWonders Nam Hoi An: A family-friendly entertainment paradise, with a unique port offering a blend of European and Hoi An aesthetics, perfect for a memorable photo album.
• Hoi An Covered Bridge: Featured on the back of the 20,000 VND polymer banknote, this iconic structure was built by Japanese merchants in the early 17th century and symbolizes the harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architecture.
• Hoai River: The banks of this river are lined with charming houses with tile roofs, while the river itself features traditional boats, creating a nostalgic, romantic ambiance.
• Lantern Street: In the evenings, millions of colorful lanterns light up the streets, transforming Hoi An into a dazzling, magical place that has become a symbol of the town.
• Yellow Alley: A small alley where the walls are painted in a rich shade of yellow, creating an artistic and visually stunning backdrop for photos.
• Faifo Coffee: This rooftop cafe offers panoramic views of the old town with its ancient tiled rooftops and clear blue skies, a favorite among travel bloggers.
• Old Brick Kiln: A rustic and offbeat spot, this abandoned kiln surrounded by vast rice fields creates an ethereal scene for photography.
• Flower Bougainvillea Houses: Walking through the ancient town, you'll find homes adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, creating a vintage aesthetic that beckons for a photo.
• Hoi An Market: Situated across the river from Cam Nam Island, this bustling market is a food lover's paradise, attracting both local and international visitors.
• Tam Quan Ba Mu Pagoda: Recognized as an architectural gem of Quang Nam, alongside the famous Japanese Bridge and Chaozhou Assembly Hall.

“Bana Hills, the road to the realm of the fairies” is a familiar phrase that everyone knows. Here, you can experience all four seasons in a single day while soaring above in the cable cars, surrounded by the lush, pristine forests of Ba Na – Nui Chua. One of the most popular attractions when staying at Ba Na Hills is the French Village.

Step into the Heart of Europe

This village replicates the charm of ancient France, with structures resembling town squares, churches, villages, and hotels. Hidden in the mist, Ba Na at night transforms into a fairy tale world, with majestic castles bathed in golden, magical lights. The buildings are designed in the architectural styles of the 12th, 13th, and 14th centuries, featuring five main highlights:

• St. Denis Cathedral: A scaled-down replica of the famous cathedral in France. The unique feature of St. Denis is the colorful stained glass windows. Inside, visitors will find tall spires, wide aisles, and intricately carved columns. This cathedral serves as a place to leave one’s worries behind and is also a romantic spot for couples making lifelong promises.
• Chateau De Chenonceau: A stunning embodiment of ancient Celtic culture, this castle exudes elegance and timeless beauty.
• Apremont-sur-Allier Village: A quaint, peaceful village in the heart of France, offering a glimpse of the serene countryside.
• Brittany Village: Known as the oldest town in France, with charming narrow streets, steep-roofed houses, and the delightful scent of freshly baked crepes and brewed beer filling the air.
• Du Dome Square and Fountain: The central square in the French Village hosts cultural festivals and events, where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local traditions of Da Nang.

After the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel demand surged as people yearned to explore the world once again. To meet this demand, numerous homestays have popped up, offering unique designs, affordable prices, and beautiful views. Depending on the number of guests and rooms, the cost of staying at a homestay in Da Nang or Hoi An ranges from 120,000 VND to 500,000 VND per night. Homestays offer the opportunity to connect more deeply with locals, giving you a taste of the local culture as you interact with your hosts daily. Moreover, friendly hosts often share insider tips on the best places to visit, eat, and explore—places that only locals know. However, if you're new to homestays, be sure to research carefully by reading reviews, checking real photos, and reviewing all details before making a reservation to ensure your stay is just as you expect.

Unlike many other cities where the airport is far from the center, Da Nang International Airport is conveniently located just 3 km from the city center in Hai Chau District, the largest district of the city. The area surrounding the airport is well-equipped with major roads, restaurants, hotels, spas, beauty salons, shopping centers, and parks, making it easy for travelers to get around without wasting too much time. Additionally, Da Nang offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, with a total of 35 international routes and 10 domestic flights available.

Following the introduction of direct flights from Incheon to Da Nang by Vietjet Air and Korean Air, a number of popular television channels, film crews, and celebrities have made their way to the region. Since early 2022, numerous film crews from famous channels such as SBS and IHQ, along with stars like Lee Joon Ki, Lee Je Hoon, Kim Yoo Bin, Cho Eun Bi, Kim Hye Rin, and Kim Ah Ryong, have visited Da Nang and Hoi An for various film shoots, game shows, and magazine photoshoots. The growing number of high-profile visitors reaffirms that Da Nang and Hoi An are ideal destinations, not only for leisure and relaxation but also as the perfect backdrop for major productions.

The name Hoi An in Vietnamese means "a peaceful place," and it is one of the oldest towns in the country. Today, the town showcases architectural remnants from the Japanese, Chinese, and French eras. Once a thriving international port, Hoi An's centuries-old buildings earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999. Visitors are drawn to the town's moss-covered rooftops and historic yellow-painted walls.

One unforgettable experience in Hoi An is to release lanterns into the serene Hoai River. Locals believe that releasing the lanterns symbolizes letting go of worries and brings peace and happiness.

Recently, Hoi An has introduced several new tourist attractions such as the Hoi An Memories show, the opening of the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, the Nam Hoi An Resort and Entertainment Complex, and the Lune Performing Arts Center.

The ancient town of Hoi An was awarded the World Travel Awards as “Asia's Leading Cultural City Destination.” CNN has praised Hoi An as one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful ancient towns, and the renowned American travel magazine Travel + Leisure named it the best destination in the world in 2019. On July 16, 2019, Hoi An captured global attention when Google featured the beautiful image of the iconic Chua Cau (Bridge Pagoda) on its homepage, as illustrated by artist Shanti Rittgers.

Hoi An is located about 30km from Da Nang, a 40-50 minute drive. With such a short distance, there are several convenient ways to get there:

• Bus: A budget-friendly option at just 30,000 VND for the entire route, though travel time is about 70-80 minutes.
• Grab/Taxi: Fast and convenient but a bit pricier, ranging from 350,000 VND to 450,000 VND one-way.
• Tourist vehicle: If you are traveling in a group of 5-7 people, renting a 7-seater vehicle costs around 300,000 VND one-way.
• Shared ride: You can share a vehicle with other passengers on the same route, which costs at least 40% less than a taxi or private car rental.
• Motorbike: A scenic and affordable way to travel, with rental prices ranging from 120,000 VND to 200,000 VND.

Da Nang serves as a central hub for several UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Imperial City of Hue, the My Son Sanctuary, and Cu Lao Cham Island.

Imperial City of Hue

Hue was the capital of Vietnam during the Tay Son Dynasty (1788–1801) and later under the Nguyen Emperors from 1802 to 1945. In 1993, UNESCO designated the Hue Imperial Citadel and its surrounding monuments as a World Heritage Site. The city is home to irreplaceable historical sites and vibrant cultural traditions, including royal music, crafts, and refined cuisine. The Perfume River divides the city, surrounded by lush parks and gardens.

My Son Sanctuary

Located in Duy Phu, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province, My Son is about 70km from Da Nang. This sacred site is one of the most significant Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia and the only one of its kind in Vietnam. In 1999, My Son was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has since been included in Vietnam’s national registry of special cultural landmarks.

Cu Lao Cham

Cu Lao Cham is a group of islands in Tan Hiep Commune, Hoi An, located 18km from the coast of Cua Dai Beach. Recognized by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, it consists of eight islands: Hon Lao (the largest), Hon Kho Me, Hon Kho Con, Hon La, Hon Dai, Hon Mo, Hon Tai, and Hon Ong. The area offers a unique glimpse into the past with its ancient town and rich biodiversity.

Da Nang

Not only famous for its stunning landscapes, but the cuisine in Da Nang is also equally captivating. When it comes to Da Nang’s culinary offerings, must-try dishes include Mi Quang, Fish Cake Noodles, Pork and Fermented Fish Noodles, Pork Wrapped in Rice Paper, Cracked Rice Paper, Grilled Pork Noodles, Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes), Grilled Pork Sausage, Beef Sausage, Green Mango Salad, seafood dishes, steamed or grilled snails, and Chicken Rice. Being a coastal city, seafood is an essential part of the food scene, with a variety of options to try. Additionally, Da Nang offers an abundance of street food, delicious and affordable, with prices typically ranging from 10,000 VND to 30,000 VND. The city has many food streets and markets that offer a wide range of tasty dishes, reflecting the distinctive flavors of Central Vietnam.

Hoi An

Beyond its traditional dishes, Hoi An’s culinary scene is also influenced by Chinese and Western styles. The unique flavors found only in Hoi An have earned it recognition from Lonely Planet, calling it a “global food paradise.” Hoi An is listed among the world’s top 25 food destinations by TripAdvisor. The World Association of Chefs has named Hoi An the culinary capital of Vietnam. If you haven’t yet tasted its renowned dishes, there’s no better time to visit this food haven.