Located at the mouth of the Hàn River in the central coastal region of Vietnam, DaNang is like a sail stretching out to the sea and has become an attractive destination for people to settle from all over the globe. It’s halfway between Vietnam’s capital in the north, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City in the south, and close to the many other attractions in central Vietnam.
For decades, DaNang had a reputation as a quiet provincial city. But in the past twenty years, it has grown into a city with stylish new modern hotels, high-rise sleek apartments, and stunning modern architecture, entwined with the ancient architecture of the many cultures who have called DaNang home.
Weather in DaNang
DaNang has fantastic weather, but the best time of the year in DaNang is from early April to September when the average temperatures are only 28-30°C.
The Beautiful warm sunny weather during these months allows you to enjoy many of the outdoor attractions that DaNang has to offer.
Winter in DaNang is from November to February and temperatures can drop to 10 -18°C. Heavy rainfalls, typhoons, and flooding occur every year during these months, causing disruptions throughout the country.
But don’t be too concerned, because DaNang city does not flood, and once the storm passes, there are always weeks of clear fine days to enjoy.
Getting Around
The city has a modern international airport allowing flights from other countries and connections to all major cities of Vietnam. Being located in the center of Vietnam, DaNang is a major transport hub for trains and busses which pass through the city.
In the city, there are many methods of transport to use to explore the attractions of DaNang, including, taxis, local buses, ride-hailing apps, and private cars. And if you try a motorbike or scooter, a license is easy to get, and bikes are easy to come by. Be warned, though, it takes a little time to get used to the crazy traffic. And being from Australia, it took me a little time to get used to driving on the right side of the road.
Where to Stay
There are many options for accommodation to choose from here. For those on a budget and a short stay, you can lodge at one of the many homestays and guest houses for as little as $10 per night.
If you are looking for a long-term place, rentals in Vietnam come cheaply. From as little as $650 per month, one can rent a three-bedroom two-bathroom beachside apartment.
What to Do
The city is surrounded by many great attractions, some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, the streets are spacious and clean; the service is good, and only a short distance to other tourist attractions such as the charming town of Hoi An, the Cham Islands, Lang Co Bay, the fabled Hai Van Mountain pass, My Son sanctuary and the former imperial city of Hue.
Whether you’re a foodie, love shopping, an adrenaline junkie, history buff, a nature-lover or just wanting to retire and relax, the city offers options for all.
What to Eat: Amazing Street Food
DaNang is blessed with unique cuisine. Being located in the central part of Vietnam, its local delicacies are influenced by other nearby regions, including Quảng Ngãi, Quảng Nam and Quảng Trị, and because of its proximity to the ocean, DaNang has become famous for its amazing seafood dishes.
When you walk through the streets of DaNang, your senses are overloaded by the many dishes being offered along the streets.
From slowly roasting ducks, chicken, and pork, dripping fat onto the smoking coals below, many styles of noodles and soups being sold from steaming cauldrons, and colorful desserts being scooped into takeaway cups by street vendors, living in DaNang your eyes, nose, and ears are in a constant state of motion.
Nightlife in DaNang
DaNang has gained a reputation for its amazing nightlife scene.
From its coffee culture, rooftop nightclubs overlooking DaNang City, beach front bars offering a chilled night in a relaxing setting, speakeasy-style jazz bars with amazing cocktails, riverfront breweries with views of the twinkling DaNang city lights, or local Vietnamese restaurants filled with friendly locals cheering Một – Hai – Ba – dzô” (“one – two – three – drink”), with endless supplies of beer, there is always somewhere to end a perfect day.
DaNang is one of the most beautiful and easiest-going cities to live in Vietnam.
A place that combines the harmony and the natural beauty of mountains, sapphire blue ocean, white breathtaking beaches, stunning architecture, rich cuisine, and warm-hearted and friendly local people, living in a city that could become a dream destination for you, too.
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by: Pedr Finnn
