If you’ve only got one day in Da Nang, don’t worry — that’s plenty of time to fall in love with this vibrant coastal city. From jaw-dropping natural views to mouth-watering local eats and unique cultural gems, Da Nang’s got the kind of charm that sneaks up on you, in the best way.
Whether you’re just passing through or squeezing in a day trip, I’ve put together the ultimate guide — based on years of living here — to help you get the very most out of 24 hours in Da Nang. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Da Nang in a Nutshell
Before we jump into the hourly guide, here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
- 🌊 Beautiful, breezy beaches (hello, My Khe!)
- 🏯 Spiritual and historical landmarks like the Marble Mountains & Lady Buddha
- 🐉 Fire-breathing dragons (seriously)
- 🚶♂️ Walkable riverfront zones
- 🍜 A food scene that hits just right — from roadside food trucks to elegant cafes
Getting in: Touchdown at Da Nang Airport
Welcome to one of Vietnam’s best-managed airports — Da Nang International! It’s small enough for quick arrivals but modern enough to be comfy.
To get into the city, grab a SIM card (you’ll find vendors right after immigration) and book your ride using the Grab app. Expect a 15–20 minute trip to the beach or city center. Too much hassle? You can pre-book private transfers online.
🚨 Quick tip: Walk briskly from the plane to immigration. Trust me, beating the crowd could save you a solid 45 minutes.
Where to Crash: Your Overnight Stay
For a refreshing one-day stay, where you sleep definitely matters.
Beachside Vibes – My Khe Area
- 🏨 Sala Danang Beach Hotel: Great location + heavenly breakfast
- 🏨 TMS Hotel: Ocean views & a rooftop pool? Yes, please
Cityside Buzz – Hai Chau District
- 🏨 Cozy Danang Boutique: Boutique charm near the river promenade
- 🏨 Vanda Hotel: City views with top-tier amenities
If your plan starts with the Marble Mountains, consider resorts like Melia Danang or Danang Marriott — both just across the street from your first stop.
📚 Want the full scoop? Check out this detailed guide on where to stay in Da Nang
🍳 Morning Fuel: A Strong Start
Most hotels offer breakfast — take the deal if that’s an option.
Want to explore a bit? Head to the My An area and try:
- ☕️ SIX ON SIX: A trendy Aussie-style cafe
- 🧋 NU Arrows: Coffee, smoothies, vegan-friendly vibes
⛰️ First Stop: Marble Mountains & Am Phu Cave (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
Kickstart your adventure at Da Nang’s iconic Marble Mountains — a cluster of limestone peaks peppered with caves, pagodas, and photo-worthy viewpoints.
- 🕗 Opens at 7:00 AM
- ✨ Peak views are totally worth the climb
- ⛩️ Optional: Brave the eerie Am Phu Cave if you’re not claustrophobic
Plan to spend around 2 hours here. Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and brace for stairs (lots of ‘em).
📍 Location: 15–20 mins south of the beach or city center
🧘♀️ Second Stop: Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)
A quick Grab ride north takes you to Da Nang’s spiritual crown jewel.
- 🌺 Free to visit
- 🙈 Look out for the cheeky monkeys
- 📸 Epic pics with panoramic ocean views
Lady Buddha stands tall at 67 meters and the surrounding serenity is a vibe. Factor in about an hour, or longer if you’re chasing that zen feeling.
🏖️ Third Stop: Break at My Khe Beach (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
By now, you’ve earned a bit of chill time. My Khe Beach — one of Vietnam’s most famous — is the place.
Options:
- Snap a few pics and dip your toes
- Lounge under an umbrella with a drink in hand
- Hit up a beach joint for lunch or snacks
🥘 Eats we trust:
- 🍕 Herbal Pizza (food truck vibes)
- 🍔 East West Brewing: Chill ambiance + craft beer + tasty bites
- 🐟 Be Ni 2: Local seafood that hits the spot
⛱️ Personal fave: East Sea Park — a perfect middle ground between touristy and local
🐉 Fourth Stop: Dragon Bridge + Fire Show (4:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
A quick hop takes you to the city’s most iconic bridge — shaped like, you guessed it, a dragon.
- 👣 Take a scenic walk or head to the lower promenade by the pier
- 📷 Don’t miss those epic pics
🔥 Pro Move: On Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays at 9:00 PM, the dragon’s head breathes fire and spurts water. It’s a must-watch moment.
🌇 Fifth Stop: Han River Promenade & Bach Dang (Evening Stroll)
Once you cross the Dragon Bridge, take a detour through Hai Chau District.
- 🏞️ Chill along Bach Dang Street’s river walk
- ⛪ Visit the pink Da Nang Cathedral
- 🛍️ Wander through Han Market (optional but fun)
🍛 Where to eat:
- 🍲 Xom Moi Garden: Vietnamese bites under the stars
- 🍔 Bikini Bottom Express: Casual Western eats nearby
- ☕️ Ut Tich Cafe: Great place to wrap up the day with coffee or dessert
🎉 Bonus: Son Tra Night Market (After 5:30 PM)
Still got energy? Swing by the Son Tra Night Market, located right at the base of Dragon Bridge (beach side).
- 🛍️ Souvenirs, clothes, local snacks
- 🍢 Night street food galore
- 💡 Perfect addition if you’re already heading to the Dragon Bridge fire show
Flex It: Customize Your Da Nang Day
Depending on where you’re staying or your travel style, feel free to shuffle the itinerary.
💡 Want to go big? Consider a pit stop in Hoi An:
- 🚗 Only 40 minutes by car
- 🏮 Visit during the day or catch the magical lanterns at night
- 🎭 Don’t miss the Hoi An Memories Show
🛵 Renting a scooter gives you more flexibility, but if that’s not your vibe, Grab taxis are quick, cheap, and easy to use.
Final Thoughts: Is One Day Enough?
Absolutely. You’ll leave wishing you had more time — and that’s always the sign of a great trip. Whether you want culture, relaxation, foodie adventures, or nature — Da Nang delivers, wrapped in sunshine and a smile.
Have questions or want to bounce ideas around for your trip? Join the convo in this friendly Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hue travel group.
Safe travels, friend. Get ready to fall for Da Nang. 💙
📌 Save this guide for reference & happy exploring!