Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Danang, settle into your accommodation, and take an evening stroll along the Han River to see the city lights.
Morning
Arrival at Danang International Airport
Arrive at DAD airport. Take a taxi or Grab (Southeast Asian ride-hailing app) to your hotel in the city center. Check in, freshen up, and get your bearings.
2-3 hours
$10-15 (taxi from airport)
Use the official Mai Linh or Vinasun taxi queue or download the Grab app beforehand.
Lunch
Bánh Xèo Bà Dưỡng
Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes
Budget
Afternoon
Relax & Han River Promenade
Take it easy to beat jet lag. Walk along the Han River promenade, see the Love Lock Bridge, and watch local life. Visit the Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture to get an introduction to the region's ancient history.
3-4 hours
$2 (museum entry)
Evening
Dinner with a view
Have dinner at Waterfront Danang Restaurant & Bar for river views, then witness the famous Dragon Bridge breathing fire and spraying water (Saturday and Sunday nights, 9 PM).
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Han River, An Thuong area (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse (e.g., Risemount Resort Danang))
Central location, walkable to riverside attractions and many restaurants.
For your first Vietnamese coffee, skip the chain shops and find a tiny local spot with plastic stools - it's cheaper and more authentic.
Day 1 Budget: $70
Explore the spiritual caves and pagodas of the
Marble Mountains, then unwind on Danang's famous beach.
Morning
Climb or take the elevator up Thuy Son, the largest and most famous of the five mountains. Explore hidden caves, ancient Buddhist sanctuaries like Hoa Nghiem Cave, and pagodas carved into the limestone. Enjoy panoramic views of the coast.
3-4 hours
$4 (entrance + elevator)
Go early (opens 7 AM) to avoid the heat and crowds. Wear sturdy shoes for climbing steps.
Lunch
Quán Bà Mụa
Local Seafood & Vietnamese
Budget
Afternoon
My Khe Beach Relaxation
Head to the southern end of My Khe Beach, consistently ranked among the world's best. Rent a lounger, swim in the gentle waves, or try surfing lessons (available locally). It's a perfect place to relax after your morning hike.
3-4 hours
$5-10 (lounger rental, drinks)
Surfboards and lessons can be arranged with operators directly on the beach.
Evening
Seafood street feast
Experience a classic Danang evening at a seafood 'quán' on Vo Nguyen Giap Street along the beach. Pick your fresh fish, crab, or prawns and have it grilled to order.
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Han River, An Thuong area (Same as previous night)
Good base for exploring both city and beach areas.
At the
Marble Mountains, be firm but polite with the vendors at the base; you don't need to buy marble souvenirs. The real treasure is the spiritual sites at the top.
Day 2 Budget: $65
A full-day excursion north to the former imperial capital of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Morning
Travel to Hue & Imperial City
Take a private car or join a small group tour for the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Hue via the Hai Van Pass (views from the car). Explore the vast Imperial City (Đại Nội), the walled fortress and palace of the Nguyen Emperors.
5-6 hours (including travel)
$25-40 (tour or car hire + entrance)
Book a day tour from Danang for convenience, or hire a private driver for more flexibility.
Lunch
Lac Thien Restaurant
Hue Imperial Cuisine (Bun Bo Hue)
Budget
Afternoon
Visit the iconic seven-story
Thien Mu Pagoda on the banks of the Perfume River. Then, take a leisurely dragon boat cruise on the river for a different perspective of the city.
2-3 hours
$10-15 (boat cruise)
Boat cruises can be negotiated at the dock near the pagoda.
Evening
Return to Danang & casual dinner
Return to Danang in the early evening. For a low-key dinner, try Mì Quảng Ông Hai for a bowl of Danang's signature turmeric noodle dish.
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Han River, An Thuong area (Same hotel)
Returning to the same base after a long day trip is convenient.
Focus on the Imperial City's core areas like the Forbidden Purple City and the flag tower, as the complex is huge and can be overwhelming in the heat.
Day 3 Budget: $80
spend time in the charming, lantern-lit ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO site just south of Danang.
Morning
Travel to Hoi An & Ancient Town Exploration
Take a taxi or local bus (approx. 45 mins) to Hoi An. Purchase an entry ticket (allows access to 5 heritage sites). Wander the yellow-painted streets, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore assembly halls like the Phuc Kien.
4-5 hours
$10-15 (transport + $6 ancient town ticket)
Buy the official ticket at one of the booths on the edge of the ancient town; it's required to enter the key historic buildings.
Lunch
Morning Glory Original
Hoi An Specialties (Cao Lau, White Rose)
Mid-range
Afternoon
Tailoring & Thu Bon River
Hoi An is famous for its tailors. Get something custom-made (allow 24+ hours for fittings). Later, take a short boat trip on the Thu Bon River or cycle through the peaceful rice paddies in the surrounding countryside.
3-4 hours
Varies widely (tailoring from $30+, boat trip ~$5)
For tailoring, research reputable shops like Yaly Couture or Be Be Tailor in advance and allow at least one fitting session.
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Han River, An Thuong area (Same hotel)
Danang offers more varied and often cheaper accommodation than central Hoi An.
The ancient town ticket is checked only at the heritage buildings. You can wander the beautiful streets for free; only buy the ticket if you plan to go inside the specific sites.
Day 4 Budget: $75
Discover the 'green lung' of Danang, home to rare wildlife, clean beaches, and a towering Lady Buddha.
Morning
Motorbike or Car Tour of Son Tra
Rent a motorbike (if confident) or hire a car with driver to explore the winding roads of Son Tra Mountain. Stop at the Ban Co Peak (Chessboard Peak) for sweeping views over Danang Bay and the city.
2-3 hours
$10-30 (motorbike rental or car hire)
For a motorbike, ensure you have an International Driving Permit and valid travel insurance. Drive cautiously.
Lunch
Son Tra Retreat
Vietnamese & International
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit the majestic
Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the tallest Lady Buddha statue in Vietnam (67m). The serene complex offers ocean views. Afterwards, head down to the secluded Bai Bac (North Beach) or Bai But for a swim.
3-4 hours
Free (donation welcome)
Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) when visiting the pagoda.
Evening
Dinner in My An
Head to the My An area for a wide selection of restaurants. Try Pizza 4P's for a famous Vietnamese-Italian fusion experience, or Madam Lan for upscale Vietnamese.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Beachfront hotel or resort (e.g., Minh Boutique Hotel))
Switch to a beachfront location for easy access to the sand and a different vibe.
Keep an eye out for the endangered red-shanked douc langurs, a rare primate species that lives in the Son Tra forest. Early morning offers the best chance to spot them.
Day 5 Budget: $85
A relaxed day dedicated to the beach, followed by learning the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.
Morning
Beach Morning & Water Sports
Enjoy a leisurely morning on My Khe Beach. Go for a long swim, read a book, or try a water sport like jet-skiing or parasailing offered by beach vendors.
3-4 hours
$5-50 (lounger rental to parasailing)
Negotiate prices for water sports; it's expected. Start at about 50% of the first quoted price.
Lunch
Grab fresh fruit or a banh mi from a beach vendor
Street Food
Budget
Afternoon
Vietnamese Cooking Class
Join a hands-on cooking class, often starting with a visit to a local market to select ingredients. Learn to make classics like fresh spring rolls (Goi Cuon), Pho, or Banh Xeo from a local chef.
4-5 hours
$25-40
Book a class in advance through platforms like Cookly or with reputable schools like Danang Cooking Class.
Evening
Enjoy your creations
You'll typically eat the multi-course meal you prepared during the class for dinner. Enjoy your homemade feast!
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Perfect location for a lazy beach day.
If you take a cooking class that includes a market tour, go with an open mind and try some of the exotic fruits like dragon fruit, rambutan, or mangosteen that the vendor might offer.
Day 6 Budget: $90
A journey to the whimsical hill station of Ba Na Hills, famous for its surreal Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands.
Morning
Travel to Ba Na Hills & Cable Car
Take a taxi or join a tour to Ba Na Hills (about 45 mins). Ride one of the world's longest single-wire cable car systems up the mountain, offering impressive views of the forest below.
3-4 hours (including travel and ascent)
$35-50 (entrance fee includes cable car & most attractions)
Book tickets online in advance to skip the ticket queue. Go as early as possible to beat the crowds at the Golden Bridge.
Lunch
Buffet restaurants in the French Village
International & Vietnamese Buffet
Mid-range (included in some ticket packages)
Afternoon
Golden Bridge & Fantasy Park
Walk the impressive Golden Bridge (Cau Vang). Explore the themed areas like the French Village,
Linh Ung Pagoda, and the flower gardens. Visit the indoor Fantasy Park for games and rides (included).
4-5 hours
Included in entrance fee
The Golden Bridge gets extremely crowded by mid-morning. For photos with fewer people, head there first thing upon arrival.
Evening
Return & casual dinner
Return to Danang in the late afternoon. For a simple, delicious meal, try Bún chả cá Ông Táo, a famous spot for fishcake noodle soup.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Familiar and comfortable after a long, active day.
The weather atop Ba Na Hills is often 10-15°C cooler and can be foggy or rainy. Bring a light jacket or sweater regardless of the weather in Danang.
Day 7 Budget: $95
A flexible day to revisit a favorite spot, relax, or choose from several exciting optional activities.
Morning
Choose Your Own Adventure
Options: 1) Relax on the beach. 2) Revisit Hoi An for a bike tour of the countryside. 3) Go golfing at one of Danang's excellent courses. 4) Take a day trip to the My Son Sanctuary ruins.
3-4 hours
$0 - $100+
For My Son, book a half-day tour. For golf, book tee times well in advance at courses like Montgomerie Links or Ba Na Hills Golf Club.
Lunch
Based on your morning activity
Varies
Varies
Afternoon
Continue Your Chosen Activity or
Spa Time
Continue exploring or indulge in some well-deserved relaxation. Danang has many excellent and affordable spas offering traditional Vietnamese massages and treatments.
Look for spas with good reviews; many hotels have their own quality
spa facilities.
Evening
Sky Bar Views
Dress up a bit and head to a sky bar for sunset cocktails with a panoramic city view. Try the 36th-floor Sky 36 or the Helio Center's rooftop bars.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Maintain your beach base for the second week.
If you choose to relax, the stretch of beach north of the Novotel is generally quieter than the central My Khe area.
Day 8 Budget: $70
Dive deeper into local life by exploring hectic markets and important cultural sites within the city.
Morning
Con Market (Chợ Cồn)
Experience the sensory overload of Con Market, Danang's largest indoor market. Wander through sections selling fresh produce, seafood, clothes, and local handicrafts. It's a hub of local commerce.
2 hours
Free (shopping extra)
Keep your belongings secure in the crowded aisles. Be prepared to bargain if buying non-food items.
Lunch
Food court inside Con Market
Local Street Food Variety
Budget
Afternoon
Ho Chi Minh Museum & Fifth Military Division Museum
Learn about modern Vietnamese history at these two adjacent museums. The Ho Chi Minh Museum focuses on 'Uncle Ho's' life, while the
military museum displays aircraft, tanks, and artifacts from the American War.
2-3 hours
Free (small donation appreciated)
Evening
Visit the more tourist-friendly
Han Market for souvenirs. For dinner, try Limoncello for excellent Italian food or A La Carte Danang Beach's multiple restaurant options.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Central for both city and beach activities.
At Con Market, head to the dedicated food court area upstairs for an amazing, cheap, and authentic lunch. Point at what looks good!
Day 9 Budget: $60
start the legendary coastal road trip over the 'Ocean Cloud Pass', one of Vietnam's most scenic routes.
Morning
Motorbike Tour - Danang to Lang Co
Join a guided motorbike tour (or hire an Easy Rider) to traverse the Hai Van Pass. Stop at old French bunkers, admire endless coastal vistas, and visit the summit for the best photos. The road winds through lush mountainsides.
4-5 hours
$40-70 (guided tour)
Book with a reputable tour company like Danang Motorbike Adventure or Hoi An Motorbike Tours for safety and knowledge.
Lunch
Seafood restaurants in Lang Co lagoon
Fresh Seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Lap An Lagoon & Return Journey
After lunch, spend time at the impressive Lap An Lagoon, a brackish water lagoon with beautiful mountain backdrops. You can take a shorter, more direct route back to Danang via the tunnel, or return over the pass for different light.
3-4 hours
Included in tour cost
Evening
Recover with a hearty meal
After an adventurous day, enjoy a satisfying meal at Memory Lounge for modern Vietnamese cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Familiar comfort after a long day on the road.
Even if you don't ride yourself, sitting on the back of an experienced 'Easy Rider' guide is a fantastic and safe way to experience the pass without the stress of navigating.
Day 10 Budget: $90
Appreciate local art and architecture by day, then start a food exploration through Danang's street food scene by night.
Morning
Danang Fine Arts Museum
Visit this often-overlooked museum housed in a beautiful French colonial building. It showcases a rich collection of Vietnamese fine arts from the 20th century to contemporary works, with a focus on central Vietnamese artists.
1.5-2 hours
$1
Lunch
Bún mắm nêm Mrs. Hoa
Fermented Fish Paste Noodle Soup (a local specialty)
Budget
Afternoon
3D Museum Art in great destination & Café Hopping
Have fun at Art in great destination, a giant interactive 3D trick-art museum where you become part of the paintings. Afterwards, explore the trendy An Thuong area, known for its expat-friendly cafes and boutique shops.
3 hours
$8 (museum entry) + $5 (coffee)
Tickets for the 3D museum can be purchased at the door.
Evening
Danang Street Food Tour
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Convenient for the food tour pick-up/drop-off, which often starts in tourist areas.
On the food tour, don't be shy! Try everything, even if it looks unfamiliar. This is the safest and most educational way to dive deep into local cuisine.
Day 11 Budget: $85
A leisurely day combining a quieter beach, the famous marble carving village, and final sunset views.
Morning
Non Nuoc Beach
Travel south to Non Nuoc Beach at the foot of the
Marble Mountains. This 5km stretch of white sand is calmer and more upscale than My Khe, lined with resorts. Enjoy a peaceful swim and sunbathe.
3 hours
Free (lounger costs vary)
You can often use resort facilities if you order food/drinks.
Lunch
The Beach House Danang
International & Seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village
Explore the centuries-old craft village at the base of the
Marble Mountains. Wander through workshops and showrooms to see artisans sculpting beautiful statues, jewelry, and household items from marble and stone.
1.5-2 hours
Free to browse
If you wish to buy, bargaining is expected. Be aware that shipping large items can be complex and expensive.
Evening
Farewell Sunset
Head back to My Khe Beach for one last glorious sunset. Have a final seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant of your choice.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
Enjoy your last night by the ocean.
In the marble village, look for items made from the local 'green stone' which is unique to this area, rather than the common white marble.
Day 12 Budget: $75
Tie up loose ends, buy souvenirs, and enjoy a spectacular cultural performance in the evening.
Morning
Souvenir Shopping & Coffee
Return to
Han Market or explore boutique shops in the An Thuong area for last-minute gifts like coffee, handicrafts, or tailored clothes (if you had something made in Hoi An, this is your final fitting/pick-up day).
2-3 hours
Shopping budget varies
For high-quality Vietnamese coffee beans, visit a specialty shop like La Caphe.
Lunch
Tiger Jack's Bar & Grill
American/Western (for a taste of home if needed)
Mid-range
Afternoon
Free Time & Packing
Use the afternoon to revisit a favorite cafe, take a final dip in the ocean, or simply relax and start packing for your departure tomorrow.
Flexible
$0-10
Evening
Dinner & 'The Memories of Hoi An' Show
Have an early dinner, then attend the impressive 'The Memories of Hoi An' show at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park (just south of Danang). It's a large-scale outdoor performance depicting the history and culture of the region with hundreds of performers.
Where to Stay Tonight
My Khe Beach area (Same beachfront hotel)
One last night in your chosen base before departure.
Book tickets for 'The Memories of Hoi An' show online in advance, during high season. Transport to/from the show is often included in the ticket price from Danang hotels.
Day 13 Budget: $100
Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast, do some last-minute exploring, and depart for the airport.
Morning
Last Breakfast & Check-out
Savor a final bowl of Pho or a banh mi from a local spot. Check out of your hotel by the standard 12 PM noon time. Store your luggage with the hotel if you have a late flight.
2 hours
$3-5 (breakfast)
Confirm your airport transfer (taxi/Grab) in advance.
Lunch
Based on your flight time
Varies
Varies
Afternoon
Final Exploration or Relaxation
If time allows, visit the APEC Park with its unique sculpture garden, or simply relax at a cafe with a book until it's time to head to the airport.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Transfer to Danang International Airport (DAD)
Head to the airport at least 2.5 hours before your international flight. Have a safe journey home!
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day.
Buy any last-minute packaged snacks or instant coffee at a local supermarket like Lotte Mart or Big C on your way to the airport. They are much cheaper than at the airport.
Day 14 Budget: $40