The Perfect Da Nang Itinerary for 3 Days
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Planning a 3-day trip to Da Nang, Vietnam, and not sure where to start?
It’s tricky figuring out how to fit in all the top sights, delicious food, and still have time to relax in just three days. If you’re wondering how to maximize your time for a mix of culture, activities, and downtime, you’re in the right spot.
I’ve lived in Vietnam for over 6.5 years and Da Nang has become like a second home to me. I’ve visited countless times, eaten at all the places I’ll mention, and tried all the activities in this guide.
That’s exactly what you’ll get here: a balanced 3-day itinerary for Da Nang.
This guide is specifically crafted with you in mind, the adventurous female traveler. Whether you’re drawn to Da Nang for its incredible views, the thrill of exploration, or the chance to dive deep into a new culture, I’ve got everything laid out for you.
Let’s dive into how you can experience the best of Da Nang, hassle-free and full of confidence.
Why Da Nang Should Be on Your Vietnam Itinerary
Da Nang should be on every traveler’s Vietnam itinerary because it offers a diverse mix of experiences, combining natural beauty, culture and modernity.
Da Nang is in the Central part of Vietnam, sitting on the South China Sea. Its coastline features some of Vietnam’s best beaches, like My Khe, known for their soft, white sands and clear waters. Beyond the shore, the Marble Mountains have natural caves, Buddhist sanctuaries, and panoramic views. Da Nang’s city life complements its scenic attractions, with the Dragon Bridge lighting up the night and a food scene that caters to everyone.
For the adventurous female traveler seeking a destination that offers both relaxation and a deep dive into culture, Da Nang is a must-visit in Vietnam.
Da Nang Itinerary – Day 1
Your adventure in Da Nang kicks off with a day packed full of local flavors, relaxation by the beach, and market exploration, capped off with a unique Da Nang evening experience. One of the best parts about coming to Da Nang is that once you land at Da Nang International Airport, it is only a 10-15 minute ride to your hotel! So whether you are arriving early in the morning or in the evening, you can get to your hotel and settled very quickly.
Here’s how to make the most of your first day:
8am → Breakfast at Mi Quang Dung
Start your morning with a bowl of Mi Quang at Mi Quang Dung, a local favorite for this traditional Vietnamese noodle dish. Mi Quang is a dish specific to the Central Region of Vietnam and it’s rich, flavorful broth, combined with herbs, meat, and rice noodles, provides the perfect energy boost for your day ahead.
Depending on where you are staying, you will likely find a Mi Quang restaurant within walking distance of your Da Nang hotel, though this one is my favorite and is a quick walk to your next stop.
Walk off your breakfast with a 10 -12 minute walk to get some coffee.
8.45am → Coffee at 43 Coffee Roasters
Next, head to 43 Coffee Roasters for a morning caffeine fix. This spot is known for its high-quality, locally sourced beans and the skilled baristas who know how to brew the perfect cup. I like lounging at one of the tables outside that are designed to be in line with a Koi Pond. The coffee here isn’t cheap, but it is good! The design of the coffee shop is unique as well – all glass windows, inside and outside seating.
It’s a 5 minute straight shot walk from the coffee shop to the beach.
9.30am → Beach Time
With your energy levels topped up, it’s time to hit the beach. Whether you prefer a peaceful walk along the shore, soaking up the sun, or hitting the waves for some water sports, Da Nang’s pristine beaches offer beautiful sand and clear waters for a refreshing morning.
Once you hit the beach, take a stroll up and down and decide where you want to park it. I like to do a little walk up and down first. Typically to pick the least crowded (this time of day it will not be crowded at all) area where I can relax.
If you’re looking for a place to lay down and do nothing but hop back and forth from your chair to the water, there are plenty of spots all along the beach that have lounge chairs for rent (they will likely try to charge you 100,000 VND, but you should be able to get them down to 50,000 VND).
If you want to do some surfing, there are a few surf shacks where you can rent a board and get a surf lesson. There are also a few spots that have jet skis for rent, as well as parasailing if that interests you.
Spend a few hours enjoying this excellent part of Da Nang! I love that there are awesome beaches literally right in the middle of the city! If you have no desire to leave for lunch, you can order food on Grab Delivery straight to where you are sitting!
Once you have had enough beach time, head to lunch. From the beach it is a 10 minute walk to Rainbow Poke, just past 43 Coffee Roasters.
1.00pm → Lunch at Rainbowl Poke
By midday, head to Rainbowl Poke for a light yet satisfying lunch. Something about eating poke bowls and smoothies after laying in the sun all morning is refreshing. Rainbow Poke has, just that, poke bowls, plus a whole variety and fusion of flavors to their bowls. I also love getting frozen yogurt after my poke bowl. It is simply frozen yogurt they keep in a tupperware (not soft serve if that is what you think of), with a bunch of different toppings added … so good!
If Poke bowls aren’t your thing, any of the restaurants in this An Thuong neighborhood are good. Check out this list of where to eat in Da Nang for other options.
From lunch, head back to your hotel for some down time before the evening activities.
2.00pm → Free Time
If you’re anything like me, a solid late afternoon nap to prepare for an evening of activity is something I always find time to do on vacation. I like this time between lunch and the evening to just chill. Go back to your hotel and rest, lay by the pool, or sit in a coffee shop.
If you’re someone that can’t chill and always needs something to do, check out this list of things to do in Da Nang, and fill the next few hours!
5pm → Han Market Food Tour
As the afternoon turns to evening, it is time to explore the busy aisles of the Han Market. You can totally explore on your own and hop from food stall to food stall, or you could join an evening food tour. There are a few options for food tours all over the city, and most are very reasonably priced (X to ).
One of the best things about Da Nang is its rich culinary scene, where every meal is an adventure. Taking a food tour is a fantastic way to taste a variety of local street foods and learn about the city’s food culture from an expert guide.
Whenever I opt for a DIY food tour of a city, I always end up regretting not getting a guide. This food tour through XXX is the highest rated in Da Nang and worth a try.
BOOK FOOD TOUR HERE
9pm → Dragon Bridge Fire Show or Waterfront Walk
If your visit falls on a weekend night, don’t miss the Dragon Bridge Fire Show, a spectacle where the bridge breathes fire and water, lighting up the night. On other nights, a peaceful walk along the waterfront offers a nice end to your day, with the city lights reflecting off the calm waters.
Da Nang Itinerary – Day 2
Your second day in Da Nang is all about adventure, relaxation, and savoring the local flavors. Here’s how to make the most of it:
**Today and tomorrow will be spent moving around the city. Using Grab the whole day is easy, but if you are comfortable on a motorbike, it is worth getting a motorbike today and keeping it for the next two days
8am → Coffee & Breakfast
Depending on where you are staying and what your morning food habits are, you have a few options for breakfast this morning.
- Breakfast at your hotel
This is your best bet if you are staying somewhere that includes breakfast, or if you are staying somewhere in the Non Nuoc Beach area (Sheraton, Marriott, Melia). These Da Nang hotels are already on the way to Marble Mountain so you won’t want to backtrack into the city center.
- Local Street Food Shop
If your hotel doesn’t offer breakfast, or if you’re on a mission to only eat Vietnamese food whilst in Da Nang, head out the doors and walk until you find something! Early in the morning there will be plenty of shops selling pho, mi quang, cau lau, and banh mi.
- Drop Coffee and Le Bordeaux
For a more western style coffee and breakfast option, my suggestion is to take an early morning stroll to Drop Coffee (my favorite coffee in Da Nang) and pick up a cup to go. Then walk next door to Le Bordeaux Bakery and get some morning baked goods. I recommend the croissant, or even just a baguette of bread to take with you on the hike.
Call a Grab Car (or drive yourself) from the bakery to get you to the Marble Mountain Hike. It is a 10-15 minute taxi ride to the entrance and ticket booth.
9am → Hike Marble Mountain
After breakfast, gear up for a hike up Marble Mountain. This collection of five limestone and marble hills has nice views, caves, and ancient temples waiting to be explored. It’s a physical activity that rewards you with beautiful views and a peek into the region’s spiritual heritage.
Be prepared it is a classic Vietnamese tourist destination. They have taken a nice natural scene and va-va-voomed it. There are fairy lights and tacky statues everywhere – a friend recently described it as being very similar to their Grandmother’s back garden. Know that going in, and the hikes are actually quite nice with good views. It’s a classic thing to do in Da Nang, and will get you out and about and moving for a few hours.
Call another Grab and hop in for a 6 minute ride down the road to the Sheraton Grand.
11am → Sheraton Grand Da Nang Spa
Following your morning hike, treat yourself to some relaxation and rejuvenation at the Sheraton Spa. I like coming here for spa days and treatments. They often have deals for packages if you check online ahead of time. Plus when you go to the spa you have access to the pool and all facilities for the day.
If you are staying somewhere without a pool and you want to spend some time relaxing by a nice one….now is your chance.
Getting a massage in Vietnam is a top activity, and while there are so many places to go in the city, I tend to choose places that are a bit nicer for a better ambiance. Get a massage or wellness treatment that will soothe your muscles and refresh you for the rest of the day’s activities.
If you aren’t interested in spending a bit more money on the Sheraton Spa, head back into the city and choose any of the other massage parlors. Check out this list of best massage places in Da Nang.
2pm → Lunch
After unwinding at the spa, it’s time for lunch. Lunch is a bit later today, as dinner won’t be until later either. For lunch I recommend a few options:
- Sheraton Lunch
If you are sticking around the Sheraton, getting lunch here is a good option. You can continue to lay by the pool and order off of their bar menu, or head into their restaurant and have a sit down lunch.
- Western Style Lunch in An Thuong Neighbhorhood
Hop into a grab and make the 12 minute drive to the An Thuong neighborhood (where you ate lunch yesterday) and pick any of the restaurants in here. I recommend Burger Bros for some of the best burgers in Vietnam, Six on Six for a coffeeshop/cafe with a variety of options, or Jeremy’s Kitchen for salads.
- Bep Cua Ngoai
Head to this Vietnamese Family Style restaurant, where you can try more Central Vietnamese dishes in a comfortable setting. This is one of my favorite Vietnamese restaurants in Da Nang.
3pm → Free Time (or Happy Hour?!)
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might opt to wander around the city, visit the Cham museum, or simply relax at your hotel or a café. Strolling around the city to see Da Nang’s historical sites, from ancient temples to French colonial buildings, is also a good way to spend the afternoon.
If you’re free time has you looking for a happy hour – East West Brewing has got one from 3-6!
I would opt for a Grab tonight incase you are tempted to do some drinking on the boat and at dinner. Head to XXX the starting location of the river cruise.
6pm → River Cruise
As evening approaches, book onto a river cruise. This relaxing journey along the Han River offers a unique perspective of Da Nang as you glide past illuminated bridges, skyscrapers, and the city’s lively waterfront. All of the river cruises run similar journeys, starting at 6pm at the docks around 26 Bach Dang Street. Here are the best options:
Once the boat docks, either take a 30 minute stroll across the river, or hop in a 5 minute taxi ride to Fatfish, your dinner stop.
8pm Dinner → Fatfish Restaurant & Lounge Bar
Dinner tonight is at Fatfish Restaurant & Lounge Bar. It is known for its fusion of local Vietnamese flavors with international cuisine.
I love eating here because I get the best of both worlds – Vietnamese food mixed with higher level International Cuisine. Sometimes I want to eat street food, sometimes I want to eat at a nice restaurant, and Fatfish mixes them both.
It is in a sweet location along the riverfront and you will get views of the river you just cruised on. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, innovative dishes, or classic cocktails, Fatfish delivers quality and creativity in every bite.
10pm → After Dinner Drinks
If you are looking to continue the party after dinner, stick around this riverfront area and do some barhopping. Many bars and restaurants will have drink deals and live music.
- Wink Riverside – Great View!
- Draft Beer Euro Village – An open air beer garden on the river
- Lagoon Rooftop – cocktails with views of the Dragon Bridge
Da Nang Itinerary – Day 3
The final day of your Da Nang adventure is a blend of scenic drives, leisurely beach time, and a calm evening on the Son Tra Peninsula. Here’s how to make the most of your last day.
**Today is the day you want a motorbike. Motorbiking over the Hai Van Pass is one of my favorite drives in Vietnam. If you are not comfortable driving your own motorbike, you can hire an Easy Rider to drive for you, while you sit on the back.
8am → Breakfast at Bikini Bottom Express
Start your day with breakfast at Bikini Bottom Express, a chill cafe with a beachy, relaxed vibe. Enjoy a delicious, energizing meal that’s perfect for setting the tone for an adventurous day ahead. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any choice you make here. One of my favorite spots in all of Da Nang and Hoi An.
If you are driving yourself, head off from here! If you are taking an Easy Rider or going on a tour, get yourself to the meeting location.
9am → Hai Van Pass Drive
After breakfast, head out on the Hai Van Pass drive, one of the most scenic routes in Vietnam. The journey offers stunning views of the coastline, lush mountains, and so many view points. Make sure to stop at the following spots for the full experience:
- Lang Co Beach: A picturesque stop to admire the white sands and turquoise waters.
- Hai Van Gate: The historic boundary between ancient empires, offering panoramic views.
- Lap An Lagoon: A serene spot to see local wildlife and the unique landscape.
There are so many coffee shops and pull off points along the route. I would say just stop at them all! You can get a full breakdown of the drive here.
1pm → Lunch
It is possible you had your fair share of snacks and drinks as you drove the pass, so perhaps you aren’t hungry for lunch. If you are, head to any of the places I recommended from the previous days that you didn’t get to. For some inspiration on where to eat in Da Nang, here are a few guides to make your choice.
2pm → Free Time
With it being your last day in Da Nang, now is the time to do whatever it is you want to do that you haven’t yet. We have hit most of the things to do in Da Nang, so don’t feel like you are missing out on anything. This could be another opportunity for a massage or a pool lay.
If you want to check out another spa, Luxury Herbal Spa is a good choice. They do a proper Thai massage!
It is a 30-ish minute drive to out to the Intercon, so aim to call a Grab around 4.30.
5pm → Drinks at the Long Bar
In the evening, head to the Son Tra Peninsula for a tranquil escape from the city. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and panoramic views of Da Nang and the surrounding waters.
For the start of your evening, you are heading to the Intercontinental Da Nang. This hotel has won numerous awards, and is one of the most incredible hotels I have ever stayed at anywhere (not just Vietnam). The hotel is not cheap, but coming for happy hour at the Long Bar is the most affordable way to experience this resort.
The Long Bar is a chic spot with a sophisticated ambiance and an impressive selection of cocktails. It has the Guiness World Record for the longest bar in the world, and has comfortable day beds and tables circling the bar. Get a cocktail or two and spend a couple of hours noshing on snacks and sipping drinks. It’s the perfect way to toast to an incredible three days in Da Nang.
If you are feeling really fancy and make a reservation, you can eat dinner tonight at La Maison 1988, the Michelin Star Restaurant inside the Intercontinental. If you’re not interested in dropping a few hundred dollars on dinner, it’s time to leave the Intercon and head to your dinner spot.
It is a 30 minute drive back into town, so aim to leave around 7.30.
8pm Dinner → Seafood on the Beach
Cap off your day with a classic Da Nang dining Experience – eating fresh seafood right on the beach. As you walk down the main street (Vo Nguyen Giap) that runs parallel to the beach, you will see plenty of outdoor seafood restaurants with tanks of seafood stacked high.
You honestly can’t go wrong with any of the places, they are all very similar. I would pick a place that has a decent sized crowd and a lively ambience. Some places I like to go to are:
- Hai San Pho – tables on the beach, very close to An Thuong Neighborhood
- Nha Han Hai San Bien Viet – just off the main road, a popular seafood restaurant with downstairs and upstairs seating
- My Hanh Seafood – nicer seating area right on the beach. Closer to the northern part of My Khe
- Hai San Da Nang Be Bien – big popular place at the northern end of the beach
Bonus Day in Da Nang
If you find yourself with an extra day in Da Nang, consider it a golden opportunity to embark on a day trip to explore more of Central Vietnam’s wonders.
If you haven’t already visited Hoi An, this ancient town is a must-see, with its lantern-lit streets and unique architecture. I recommend heading to Hoi An after Da Nang where you can spend another 2 days exploring. Check out my itinerary for 2 days in Hoi An. If that is on your Vietnam Itinerary already, a few more things you can do:
Ba Na Hills is another option, where you can experience the thrill of the world’s longest non-stop single-track cable car, explore a French village replica, and walk the famous Golden hands Bridge held aloft by giant hands. You can read more about Ba Na Hills and if it is actually worth going in this post. Note – I have never been and likely will never go.
The My Son Sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat into nature and history, where you can admire ancient Cham architecture set against the forest. Booking a private tour to the My Son Sanctuary allows for a personalized experience of this ancient spiritual site.
Da Nang Itinerary Travel Guide
Now that you know what to do during your 3 day Da Nang Itinerary, here are some highlights to help you plan when to visit, where to stay, and how to get around.
The Best Time to Go to Da Nang
Da Nang is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from February to May. During these months, the weather is mild with low humidity, making it a great place for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
The rainy season from September to January can see occasional downpours, which might restrict some outdoor activities.
Getting Around Da Nang
Grab Cars
The most convenient and reliable way to get around Da Nang is by using Grab. This ride-hailing app offers affordable rates for cars and motorbikes, allowing you to travel comfortably and safely at any time of the day.
You will need a working phone number in order to set up Grab, so make sure your Vietnam SIM Card has a number attached to it.
Motorbike
Renting a motorbike gives you the freedom to explore Da Nang at your own pace. It’s a popular choice if you are comfortable driving a motorbike. Da Nang is much more mellow than Hanoi and HCMC, so if you were intimidated to drive in the bigger cities, Da Nang could be a chance to try it out.
For those seeking adventure, renting a motorbike is the best option to explore Da Nang’s hidden gems at your own pace
Walking
Many of Da Nang’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the riverfront. Walking is not only a great way to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere but also an opportunity to discover hidden gems along the way.
Best Place to Stay in Da Nang
I recommend staying on the beach side when you are in Da Nang. It is easy access to both the Son Tra Peninsula, the Marble Mountains, and into Da Nang. Plus the neighborhood of An Thuong is full of coffee shops and cafes to walk around.
Best Budget Hotel in Da Nang: Seahorse Signature Danang Hotel
The Seahorse Hotel in Da Nang is an affordable hotel with a range of options for all kinds of travelers. You can get a full studio apartment with a balcony for $50 or a bed in a dorm room for $10.
All options are comfortable and provide excellent value for the cost. Plus there are over 400 9 star reviews on Booking, so you know it is a solid choice.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Da Nang: Sala Danang Beach Hotel
The Sala Danang Beach Hotel has a rooftop pool, popular bar for cocktail hour, and views of the beach. It is comfortable, popular and located in a perfect spot for exploring Da Nang.
For less than $100, you can get a room with an ocean view + afternoon tea included.
Best Luxury Hotel in Da Nang: Intercontinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula
If money is no object, and you want to splurge on the absolute best hotel in Da Nang, then you need to check out the Intercontinental. This is one of the best hotels, not just Da Nang, but all of Vietnam (and Asia!). It has won countless awards and been featured in lists like Travel and Leisure’s Top 100 Hotels in the World.
It is in the Son Tra Peninsula, so a bit far from some of the things you will be doing on your days in Da Nang, but it is absolutely worth the trek. If you want to live in pure luxury on your Vietnam Vacation, you need to choose this hotel.
Map of Every Place Mentioned in this 3 Day Da Nang Itinerary
Final Thoughts: 3 Day Da Nang Itinerary
Let’s sum up our 3-day Da Nang Guide: it’s straightforward – hit the beaches, explore nature, and don’t miss out on the local eats at markets and street stalls.
As you can see, Da Nang, a gem in Southeast Asia, offers an unforgettable escape with its unique blend of modernity and tradition.
This guide is my insider take on Da Nang – from chilling, eating, to exploring. Da Nang is diverse; whether you’re here for the scenery, the food, or just to relax, there’s plenty to do. Hope this helps you get the most out of your visit!
Ready to dive into Da Nang? Don’t wait any longer to book your trip and experience everything this city has to offer. And to make sure you have the perfect place to stay, check out my post on the best hotels in Da Nang. From cozy budget options to luxurious beachfront resorts, we’ve got you covered.
Start planning your Da Nang adventure today and discover the perfect base for your exploration!
