A Perfect Day in Da Nang

@afar
 on 2022.02.03
9 Places
@afar
Even Da Nang locals probably wouldn't argue their home city is rich in standout attractions. Nevertheless, it is a hugely pleasant place to while away a day, with enough charismatic draws to keep visitors engaged. All the way from a tasty noodle breakfast to a sumptuous Vietnamese feast for dinner, Da Nang has what it takes to supply a perfect day. Credit: Collected by Duncan Forgan, AFAR Local Expert

Mi Quang Ba Vi

Noodle shop · Thanh Khe

"Breakfast of Danang Champions Most bigger Vietnamese cities have their own noodle specialty and Danang is no exception. In its case, the dish in question -- mi quang -- is an absolute classic. The dish is made with wide egg noodles, with a characteristic slippery quality, shrimp, pork or chicken in a flavourful broth seasoned with cilantro, fresh vegetables, peanuts and lime. It is mostly eaten for lunch but can enjoyed equally as a hearty start to the day."

Cong Cafe

Cafe · Hanoi

"Get a Java Jolt at Hanoi's Hippest Cafe Chain Coffee shops are everywhere in Hanoi , but few strike the right balance between quality coffee and a hip, youthful atmosphere. Cong Caphe now has several branches in the city -- as well as in other big cities in Vietnam including Ho Chi Minh City and Danang -- which is proof of its winning formula of eclectic beats, Communist kitsch decor and electrifying coffee."

Photo by Rob M/Flickr

Da Nang Food Tour

Tourist attraction · Thanh Khe

"Explore Danang's Local Dining Scene With the East Sea lapping close by, it is not surprising that Danang has a food scene the equal of most cities in Vietnam. Although sometimes overshadowed by nearby Hoi An, the bigger city has a wealth of sensational local venues whipping up everything from regional specialties to classic seafood offerings such as clams steamed with lemongrass and chilli and deep fried squid. Exploring independently is fun, but more joy can be found with Danang Food Tour, which can provide expert guidance on its morning and evening voyages of culinary discovery."

Photo by Rex Roof

Chùa Linh Ứng Bãi Bụt Đà Nẵng

Buddhist temple · Son Tra

"A Piece of Pagoda Paradise A journey to Son Tra Peninsula is a must for many reasons, not least the opportunity to visit Linh Ung Pagoda. The temple is the largest in Danang and is spectacularly located on a knoll with fantastic views back towards China Beach and the Marble Mountains. It is impossible to miss the pagoda as it is located right next door to the giant white Goddess of Mercy statue."

Photo by Tim Vo

Non Nuoc Market

Market · Ngu Hanh Son

"Escape the Crowds at Non Nuoc Beach As there's a near continuous stretch of sand between Danang and Hoi An, it is sometimes tricky to define separate beaches. One of the nicest areas to kick back for a day is Non Nuoc Beach, which is situated roughly around the same area as the Marble Mountains."

"A Different Kind of Temple One of the world's more singular religions, Cao Dai mixes ideas from other religions including Buddhism and Taoism and also cosmology. Although the religion has its main base at Tay Ninh in southern Vietnam, Danang has its own temple, which is worth visiting for its expansive grounds and peaceful atmosphere."

Photo by Victoria

The Marble Mountains

Tourist attraction · Ngu Hanh Son

"Climb the Marble Mountains ...or take the elevator (seriously!) to experience this network of temples and intricate sculpture. Incense is sold throughout the complex, and people sell all kinds of marble wares on the street level."

Nhà hàng Madame Lân

Restaurant · Hai Chau

"Great Food, Fantastic Setting For those who wish to sample a selection of choices from Vietnam's formidable culinary arsenal in a spotless setting, Madam Lan's is by far the best choice in Danang. Housed in a French/Vietnamese colonial mansion, the restaurant does a wide range of classics including noodles, rice, salads and barbecued dishes."

Han Market

Market · Thanh Khe

"Shop the Traditional Way Danang's main market, known as Cho Han, is a typically Vietnamese retail experience. Here guests will find 28,000 square metres of shopping opportunities under one roof. Everything is on offer here from tourist tat, to jewellery, flowers and fruit and fresh veg."

Photo by Khan Hmoong