Weekend Wonders in Danang

Beaches, Mountains, and Vietnamese Heritage

Trip Overview

This two-day Danang escape balances Vietnam's coastal beauty with cultural immersion and mountain adventures. You'll explore ancient Cham sculptures, ride cable cars to misty Ba Na Hills, discover marble-carved caves, and witness the iconic Dragon Bridge's evening fire show. The itinerary moves at a moderate pace, allowing time to savor local cuisine and soak in beach vibes while hitting the city's must-see attractions. From sunrise at The Marble Mountains to sunset cocktails along the Han River, this weekend showcases why Danang has become central Vietnam's rising star. Perfect for travelers seeking Instagram-worthy moments, cultural insights, and authentic Vietnamese experiences without the crowds of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$60-100 per day
Best Seasons
February to May (dry season with pleasant temperatures)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Vietnam, Weekend travelers, Culture and nature enthusiasts, Photography lovers, Couples seeking romantic getaways

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Marble Peaks & Dragon Fire

Danang City & The Marble Mountains
Start with sacred mountain caves and Buddhist sanctuaries before diving into Cham heritage and ending with the spectacular Dragon Bridge fire show.
Morning
The Marble Mountains
Climb these five limestone peaks named after natural elements, exploring cave pagodas, Buddhist sanctuaries, and marble workshops. The views from the summit span Danang's coastline and countryside. Visit Huyen Khong Cave with its natural skylight illuminating Buddha statues, and browse local artisans crafting intricate marble sculptures. Wear comfortable shoes for the steep stone steps, though an elevator is available for part of the ascent.
3 hours $3-5 entrance fee
Arrive by 7:30 AM to beat tour groups and heat; no advance booking needed
Lunch
A beachside seafood restaurant near Non Nuoc Beach serving fresh catches and traditional Vietnamese dishes
Vietnamese seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture
Explore the world's finest collection of Cham art and sculpture spanning the 7th to 15th centuries. This French-colonial era building houses over 300 terracotta and stone works from the ancient Champa Kingdom, organized by regional archaeological sites. The intricate sandstone carvings of Hindu deities, dancers, and mythical creatures offer insight into central Vietnam's pre-Vietnamese civilization. Air-conditioned galleries provide welcome relief from midday heat.
1.5-2 hours $2 entrance fee
Evening
Dragon Bridge viewing and riverside dinner
Position yourself along the Han River's east bank by 9 PM on weekends to watch the Dragon Bridge breathe fire and water. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant with views of the illuminated bridge, sampling mi quang noodles or banh xeo crispy pancakes

Where to Stay Tonight

My An Beach or An Thuong area (Mid-range beachfront hotel or boutique accommodation)

Close to tomorrow's beach activities and Ba Na Hills departure point, with excellent dining options and ocean access

The Dragon Bridge show happens Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM. If visiting weekdays, the bridge is still beautifully lit and worth photographing from the east bank.
Day 1 Budget: $65-90
2

Ba Na Hills Fantasy Escape

Journey to the misty French colonial hill station via record-breaking cable car, exploring fantasy castles, golden bridges, and mountain-top attractions.
Morning
Take the world's longest non-stop single-track cable car ascending 1,487 meters through five climate zones to this French colonial mountain resort. Walk across the famous Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands, explore Le Jardin D'Amour flower gardens, and wander through a replica French medieval village complete with cathedral and cobblestone squares. The cool mountain climate provides refreshing contrast to coastal heat. Allow time for the Fantasy Park indoor amusement area and wax museum included in admission.
6-7 hours $30-35 entrance with cable car and attractions
Buy tickets online in advance to skip long queues; arrive at opening (7:30 AM) or after 1 PM to avoid peak crowds
Lunch
Buffet restaurants within Ba Na Hills complex offering Vietnamese and international cuisine
Vietnamese and international buffet Mid-range
Afternoon
Continue exploring Ba Na Hills
Ride the funicular to Ban Co Peak for panoramic views, visit Linh Ung Pagoda with its towering Buddha statue, and enjoy the Alpine Coaster or other amusement rides. The cooler temperatures and often misty atmosphere create a dreamlike setting perfect for photography. Don't miss the wine cellar showcasing Ba Na's French heritage. Descend via cable car in late afternoon, enjoying sunset views over the mountains and coastline during the 20-minute ride down.
3-4 hours Included in morning ticket
Evening
Sunset at My Khe Beach and farewell dinner
Relax on My Khe Beach watching the sunset, then enjoy a farewell dinner at a beachfront restaurant specializing in bun cha ca (fish cake noodle soup) or cao lau, finishing with Vietnamese coffee at a beach cafe

Where to Stay Tonight

My Khe Beach area (Same accommodation as Day 1 for convenience)

Easy beach access for your final evening and convenient for airport transfers

Ba Na Hills gets foggy and 10-15°C cooler than Danang city. Bring a light jacket even in summer, and waterproof gear during rainy season.
Day 2 Budget: $70-110

Practical Information

Getting Around

Danang is compact and easily navigable. Use Grab app for affordable rides between attractions ($2-8 per trip). Rent a motorbike ($5-7/day) if confident riding in Vietnamese traffic. The Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills require taxi or tour transport. Airport to city center costs $3-5 via Grab. Many hotels offer free bicycles for beach area exploration. Walking works well along the beachfront promenade between My Khe and An Thuong areas.

Book Ahead

Ba Na Hills tickets (online purchase saves queuing time), weekend accommodation during peak season (February-April), and any guided food tours

Packing Essentials

Light jacket for Ba Na Hills, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, modest clothing for temples (covered shoulders and knees), swimwear for beach, rain jacket during monsoon season

Total Budget

$135-200 for 2 days (excluding flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Skip Ba Na Hills ($35 saved) and explore free attractions like Dragon Bridge, beaches, and the Han River waterfront. Eat at local com tam rice plate stalls ($2-3 per meal) instead of restaurants. Stay in hostels ($8-15/night) in Bac My An area. Rent a bicycle instead of using taxis. Visit the free Danang Fine Arts Museum and Ho Chi Minh Museum instead of paid attractions.

Luxury Upgrade

Book a private Ba Na Hills tour with guide and VIP cable car access. Stay at five-star beachfront resorts with spa services and infinity pools. Hire a private driver for all transfers. Dine at upscale fusion restaurants with ocean views. Add a sunset yacht cruise on the Han River. Include spa treatments and private cooking classes. Upgrade to helicopter tours over the Marble Mountains and coastline.

Family-Friendly

Ba Na Hills is perfect for children with its Fantasy Park amusement area and fairytale atmosphere. Replace the Cham Museum with 3D Museum Art in paradise Da Nang for interactive photo opportunities kids love. Build in beach time at Phước Mỹ Beach which has calmer waters. Choose family rooms near My Khe Beach with pools. Add the Danang Children's Palace for educational activities. Pack snacks as children may not enjoy all Vietnamese cuisine options.

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Tours, tickets, and experiences in Danang

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