This article is all about where to stay in Da Nang; a metropolis with a beautiful coastline, stunning beaches, and modern infrastructure. Let’s dive into the best areas of Vietnam’s fourth-largest city! I’ve spent a lot of time traveling around Vietnam and Da Nang is one of my favorite places to visit. The mix of … Read more
The post Where to Stay in Da Nang (Best Areas & Places) appeared first on Goats On The Road.
This article is all about where to stay in Da Nang; a metropolis with a beautiful coastline, stunning beaches, and modern infrastructure. Let’s dive into the best areas of Vietnam’s fourth-largest city!
I’ve spent a lot of time traveling around Vietnam and Da Nang is one of my favorite places to visit. The mix of a chilled beach vibe with the buzz of a big city makes it an appealing destination. Here are the best places to stay in Da Nang.
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Best Areas to Stay in Da Nang
- Best For First-Time Visitors: Hai Chau (Val Soleil Hotel)
- Best For Nightlife: Hoa Cuong (Florence Hotel)
- Best Trendy / Coolest Area: Hoa Hai (Marriott Resort and Spa)
- Best for Digital Nomads: My An (Babylon Garden Da Nang)
- Best On a Budget: Son Tra (Sontra Sea Hotel)
Hai Chau: Best Place To Stay in Da Nang for Your First Time
Hai Chau offers a bit of everything and is the best area for first-time visitors in Da Nang. It’s the best place to stay in Da Nang city center for historical sites, cool bars and restaurants, shopping centers, and beautiful parks.
The area’s modern architecture blends with plenty of charming traditional elements, giving it a vibrant yet relaxed vibe. I love exploring Hai Chau’s local markets, taking serene riverside walks, and enjoying the lively social scene.
Pros of Staying in Hai Chau
- Central Location: Easy access to Da Nang’s top attractions, including historical sites, and markets, together with the Han River.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: A bustling mix of bars, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options.
- Convenient Amenities: Modern infrastructure and facilities make it a reassuring place for first-time visitors.
Cons of Staying in Hai Chau
- Crowded: The central location means it can get busy and crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Noise: The nightlife scene can be noisy, which might not suit those seeking a tranquil stay.
- Higher Prices: Accommodation and dining in this popular area can be more expensive than other parts of Da Nang.
Best Places to Stay in Hai Chau
Hai Chau is one of the best areas to stay in Da Nang with many great accommodation choices. Here are a few top options to illustrate this:
1. Val Soleil Hotel: A luxurious hotel with stunning Han River and Dragon Bridge views. The amazing rooftop pool and convenient access to the city’s attractions are ideal for first-time visitors. Click here for details.
2. Sujet Hotel: Stylish and comfortable rooms close to the city’s top attractions. Visitors will also benefit from modern facilities, excellent service, easy access to the beach, and many fantastic dining options. Click here for details.
3. Phu An Hotel: A more traditional hotel that will make you feel right at home. Moreover, the friendly staff, cozy rooms, and proximity to local markets and eateries make for an authentic Vietnamese experience. Click here for details.
Top Things To Do in Hai Chau
Being centrally located in Da Nang means access to all of the city’s top attractions, here are a few to tick off first:
1. Cross the Dragon Bridge: Da Nang’s iconic Dragon Bridge is a spectacular feat of art and engineering. Whether driving or walking across or simply witnessing the fire and water display at 9 pm on weekends, it’s a top thing to do in Da Nang. Click here for directions.
2. Shop at Han Market: The bustling marketplace is certainly an experience. You’ll feel like a local shopping for groceries, picking up bargain clothes, or grabbing lunch at this longstanding Da Nang institution to be sure. Click here for directions.
3. Visit the Da Nang Museum: Learn all about the city at the Da Nang Museum. Covering everything from historical aspects, and military endeavors to modern-day feats, this museum is a fun and informative way to spend a few hours. Click here for directions.
Where to Eat and Drink in Hai Chau
When it comes to eating and drinking, Hai Chau is one of the best places to stay in Da Nang.
1. Sky36: Da Nang’s highest rooftop bar! It’s my favorite Da Nang spot for cocktails with a view and a chic atmosphere. I love this place for its epic panoramic skyline. Click here for directions.
2. Draft Beer: A great spot downtown if you prefer your local beers from a keg rather than a bottle. Additionally, this traditional bar serves very affordable drinks, excellent seafood, and classic Vietnamese dishes. Click here for directions.
3. Pizza 4P’s: My go-to pizza place in Da Nang. This popular chain of pizza restaurants never misses and is a sure-fire source of great food and a nice atmosphere every time. Click here for directions.
Hoa Cuong: Best Area in Da Nang for Nightlife
Hoa Cuong is a lively hotspot for nightlife. Known for its selection and variety of cool bars and clubs, this area offers a more energetic and party-focused experience compared to others in the city.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s social scene, Hoa Cuong is the best place to stay in Da Nang for nightlife. Its blend of stylish bars and late-night venues makes it perfect for anyone wanting to party.
Pros of Staying in Hoa Cuong
- Vibrant Nightlife: On the positive side for partiers, the district is packed with lively bars and clubs.
- Local Experience: Staying here offers an authentic taste of Da Nang’s local downtown scene.
- Convenient Location: Hoa Cuong is close to central attractions so it has good public transportation links.
Cons of Staying in Hoa Cuong
- Noise Levels: The nightlife can lead to higher noise levels, which may disturb those seeking a quieter stay.
- Limited Accommodation Options: Compared to other districts, there are fewer hotels, which might limit choices.
- Language Difficulties: On the negative side, English is not as widely spoken here.
Best Places to Stay in Hoa Cuong
If you’re considering where to stay in Da Nang for nightlife, Hoa Cuong District has some great options that will suit night owls and party enthusiasts. Check out these options:
1. Florence Hotel: With stylish fixtures and fittings befitting its Italian heritage, Florence Hotel is a classy option in Hoa Cuong. The spa, pool, and fitness center provide a relaxing release from the busy city. Click here for details.
2. Grand Citiview: Hundreds of outstanding reviews rate the Grand Citiview as one of the best hotels in Da Nang. True to its name, each room has spectacular city views. Click here for details.
3. Tan Phuong Hotel & Apartment: With a range of hotel rooms and fully furnished apartment options, you can curate a stay in Hoa Cuong to suit your needs. The rooftop pool and daily buffet breakfast are the perfect remedy after a long night. Click here for details.
Top Things To Do in Hoa Cuong
In my opinion, Hoa Cuong is the best neighborhood in Da Nang for seeing all the sights, here are a few you should check out:
1. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum: A brilliant museum devoted to the country’s former leader. Learn all about Ho Chi Minh’s life and his unwavering importance to the people of Vietnam. Click here for directions.
2. Take a Nighttime River Cruise: Hop aboard a nighttime cruise down the Han River to admire the city’s illuminated skyline. It’s undoubtedly the best way to watch the Dragon Bridge Show of Fire and Water. Click here for more information on this excellent tour.
3. Ride the Sun Wheel: The Sun Wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially at night. It’s located in Sun World Asian Park, a large entertainment complex with fun cultural zones and amusement rides. Click here for directions.
Where to Eat and Drink in Hoa Cuong
For food and drinks options, Da Nang neighborhoods don’t get much better than Hoa Cuong, here are my 3 favorite spots:
1. Anchor Restaurant & Beer: With a huge menu of classic Vietnamese dishes, international options, and a terrific drinks list, Anchor is my go-to food spot in Hoa Cuong. Click here for directions.
2. Pho House: Pho House in Da Nang is appropriately named and serves some of the best pho in the city. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the portions are generous. It’s a must-visit spot for lovers of this traditional dish. Click here for directions.
3. Tram Sac Beer: This was a great little find in Hoa Cuong. It’s a small brewpub with a range of excellent and varied beers which can be a nice change from the usual lagers that most places offer. Click here for directions.
Hoa Hai: Coolest Place to Stay in Da Nang
Hoa Hai, located just south of the city, is a hidden gem for anyone seeking a quieter, more laid-back vibe. This area has tons of natural beauty, luxury high-end hotels, and plenty of modern conveniences.
If you want to be ‘close but not too close’ and are looking for places to stay near Da Nang, Hoa Hai is an ideal location. The city’s nightlife and cultural sites are never too far away while a peaceful retreat awaits at the end of the day.
Pros of Staying in Hoa Hai
- Scenic Views: On the positive side, Hoa Hai offers many beautiful views of the coastline and the Marble Mountains.
- Boutique Resorts: The area is home to luxurious high-end and boutique resorts.
- Wellness Focus: Hoa Hai is the best place to stay in Da Nang for golf courses, spa services, yoga classes, and peaceful surroundings.
Cons of Staying in Hoa Hai
- Limited Nightlife: Hoa Hai has fewer nightlife options than central Da Nang.
- Transportation Needs: The area is more spread out, so you may need to rely on taxis or rental vehicles to explore.
- Fewer Dining Options: While there are some great restaurants, the variety is more limited compared to the city center.
Best Places to Stay in Hoa Hai
Although the coastal Da Nang district is home to some of the biggest and most luxurious hotels in the city, there are accommodation options to suit every kind of budget:
1. Marriott Resort & Spa: This 5-star resort has 5 swimming pools and 4 restaurants on site. The stunning beachfront hotel has everything you need for the perfect Vietnam escape. Click here for details.
2. Lala Apartment and Hotel: If huge resorts aren’t your thing, consider an apartment stay just a short walk from the beach. This two-bedroom, fully-equipped, and spacious apartment is ideal for that home-away-from-home type of vacation. Click here for details.
3. Sheraton Grand: Another fabulous beachside resort in Hoa Hai, the Sheraton Grand has 2 massive swimming pools and 6 onsite restaurants. You can certainly expect world-class service and a deluxe hotel experience. Click here for details.
Top Things To Do in Hoa Hai
Hoa Hai, with its huge resort hotels, may be one of the posher areas of Da Nang but there are still plenty of fun things to do besides lounging by the pool. Here are some top recommendations:
1. Take a Sightseeing Tour: I wanted to tick off quite a few sights so I booked an excellent small-group half-day tour. It takes in the Marble Mountains, Monkey Mountain, the epic Lady Budha Statue, and of course, the awesome Am Phu Caves. For more information about the tour I booked, click here.
2. Visit Hoi An: Staying south of Da Nang means you’ll already be well on your way to Hoi An. This ancient port city is one of my favorite Vietnam destinations and I found this great tour featuring all the old town’s highlights – check it out.
3. See the Non Nuoc Pagoda: Most guided tours miss the Non Nuoc Pagoda, but it’s worth visiting. The huge mountainside Buddhist temple has many ornate statues and offers fabulous photo opportunities. Click here for directions.
Where to Eat and Drink in Hoa Hai
Hoa Hai is a safe neighborhood to explore in Da Nang and despite the number of big hotels, there are still ample independent restaurants and bars to try out.
1. SC Restaurant & Bar: A cute and friendly little spot for hearty Western food, affordable beers, and cocktails. Unsurprisingly, this makes it a popular place even for those who have meals included at the resorts. Click here for directions.
2. La Plage: A high-end restaurant with a Greek/Italian fusion menu. The seafood here is top-notch but the selection of meze and tapas boards, outstanding flatbreads, and meat options are hard to turn down. Click here for directions.
3. Tilo: An easygoing and welcoming cafe/bar/restaurant that serves excellent Western food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An understated but highly-rated find in Hoa Hai. Click here for directions.
My An: Best for Digital Nomads
For much of my time in Da Nang, I based myself in My An. Primarily because this area is one of the best neighborhoods in Da Nang for digital nomads. Additionally, the convenience of coworking spaces, cafes, and a short walk to the beach, made it an ideal spot for me and my laptop.
My An is known for its lively expat community, and it’s a great neighborhood where like-minded individuals gather to work and unwind.
Pros of Staying in My An
- Lots of Laptop-Friendly Cafes: There’s an impressive range of excellent cafes welcoming digital nomads. Read about my 10 Best Laptop-Friendly Cafes here.
- Affordable Living: You’ll find a good mixture of affordable accommodations, and plenty of cheap places to stay in Da Nang.
- Dedicated Coworking Spaces: My An is home to some of the best coworking spaces in Da Nang.
Cons of Staying in My An
- Seasonal Weather: The wet season is more prevalent by the coast and this can bring heavy rain and humidity.
- Limited Nightlife: While there are some excellent bars and cafes, My An’s nightlife is quieter than other parts of Da Nang.
- Traffic Congestion: The area can get crowded and feel chaotic at times, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Best Places to Stay in My An
My An is an ideal location for those seeking the best areas to stay in Da Nang, especially digital nomads. Here are some great places to consider:
1. Babylon Garden Hotel: A superb accommodation option, steps from the beach. Moreover, its bright and spacious rooms all come with scenic city views and easy access to all of My An’s amenities. Click here for details.
2. Lavencos Hotel: A rooftop pool with ocean views and breakfast included with most bookings. Lavencos Hotel offers premium accommodation at budget rates. Click here for details.
3. Langmandi Hotel and Apartments: Over a hundred excellent reviews rate this as the best apartment in Da Nang. It’s a perfect place to stay in Da Nang for groups and is a great choice if you’re traveling with friends. Click here for directions.
Top Things To Do in My An
Although chilling on the beach may be a high priority in My An, there’s still plenty more to enjoy while staying on this side of the city.
1. Stroll Around DHC Marina: The DHC Marina is a lively waterside spot with lots of casual dining, shops, and the iconic statue of a carp transforming into a dragon. It’s a great spot for people-watching and admiring some epic yachts. Click here for directions.
2. CauTinhYeu Riverwalk: With lovely river views, the popular CauTinhYeu boardwalk features floral decorations and permanent statues and art installations. It’s also the perfect spot for watching the Dragon Bridge fire up at 9 pm on weekends. Click here for directions.
3. Walk Across the Golden Hand Bridge: Before arriving in Vietnam, my social media was filled with images of an incredible bridge held up by giant hands called the Golden Bridge. Take one of the world’s longest cable cars, which ascends to Ba Na Hills Resort and Theme Park, as part of this incredible tour.
Where to Eat and Drink in My An
My An’s combination of ex-pats, digital nomads, and beachgoers makes it one of my favorite areas in Da Nang to go out for food and drinks. I’ve listed a few great places in particular to be aware of:
1. The Mad Den: A popular Irish pub in My An, given that it’s often filled with jolly ex-pats knocking back Guinness and other beers most Vietnamese bars don’t stock. They serve some solid pub food choices here too. Click here for directions.
2. Bikini Bottom Express: The best fish tacos in Da Nang! Bikini Bottom Express is a smaller version of the popular Hoi An branch but puts out plates of identical quality. The classic menu of hearty American favorites always hits the spot. Click here for directions.
3. Bunker Da Nang: Tucked behind an unassuming entrance, Bunker has a cozy underground speakeasy vibe. The welcoming bartenders are always eager to chat about their favorite drink recommendations and I’ve enjoyed every visit – I highly recommend trying their signature cocktails. Click here for directions.
Son Tra: Best Place in Da Nang on a Budget
Da Nang’s Son Tra District allows travelers on a budget to be immersed in stunning natural beauty without breaking the bank. There are plenty of affordable accommodations and local eateries with good transport links to the city center.
As well as the budget-conscious, nature lovers are drawn to the peninsula’s pristine beaches and hiking trails. Son Tra feels removed from the busy districts while maintaining enough amenities to justify staying here.
Pros of Staying in Son Tra
- Affordable Accommodations: Son Tra is home to many budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.
- Natural Beauty: In particular, the area is known for its stunning landscapes, beaches, mountains, and lush forests.
- Less Crowded: Compared to more touristy areas, Son Tra is quieter, providing a more peaceful environment.
Cons of Staying in Son Tra
- Limited Nightlife: If you’re looking for Da Nang hotels near nightlife, avoid Son Tra!
- Distance from City Center: Being further from the city center, it can take longer to reach popular attractions.
- Fewer Western Amenities: Lastly, the area has fewer Western-style restaurants and comforts.
Best Places to Stay in Son Tra
Budget-conscious travelers have a range of options in Son Tra, but lower rates don’t necessarily mean you have to slum it. Check out these top picks:
1. Sontra Sea Hotel: The ideal option in Son Tra features spectacular sea views and spacious clean rooms. Rooms are also equipped with basic kitchen equipment, perfect for quick and easy meals and saving a little extra cash by dining in. Click here for details.
2. Nguyen Gia Hotel: Breakfast included and sea views as standard at unbeatable rates. Above all, the hotel sits at the gateway to all the natural beauty the Son Tra Peninsula has to offer. Click here for details.
3. Vitalis Riverside Hotel: Offering the cheapest hotel rooms I could find in Son Tra while still attaining hundreds of exceptional reviews. The hotel’s well-equipped rooms are raved about for their great views and cleanliness. Click here for details.
Top Things To Do in Son Tra
Son Tra’s natural beauty spots and hiking trails will keep visitors well-occupied during a stay in the Da Nang Peninsula, here’s a few top things to consider adding to your itinerary:
1. Visit Ban Co Peak: The hiking around Son Tra Mountain is exceptional, offering stunning views on every trail. Consider booking a taxi to take you to Ban Co Peak, Da Nang’s highest point; catching the sunset from here will be a real highlight of your stay. Click here for directions.
2. Take Photos at Ghềnh Bàng: An iconic Da Nang spot for relaxing, exploring, and unforgettable photo opportunities. The small sandy beach and craggy rock formations are known for the regular presence of monkeys and stunning vistas. Click here for directions.
3. Head to a 3D Museum Art: The 3D Art in Paradise Museum is an immersive experience with interactive art that brings illusions to life. You can become part of the artwork, creating fun and creative photos. Click here for directions.
Where to Eat and Drink in Son Tra
You’ll find some outstanding traditional eateries in Son Tra, and overall, a couple of my favorite Vietnamese restaurants are on the peninsula:
1. Son Tra Retreat Garden Lounge: Outstanding food in a glorious modern Vietnamese garden setting. This place has a relaxing and welcoming vibe and is a true food experience in Son Tra. Click here for directions.
2. Quán Chay Tỉnh Quán: A blink and you’ll miss it, vegan restaurant that is Da Nang’s best-kept secret for non-meat-eaters. The menu is extensive and delicious and while the outside appears unassuming, the inside is fresh and inviting. Click here for directions.
3. Under The Sea: Go for the food but stay for the cocktails. Under The Sea serves excellent meat and fish dishes but also has a chilled club vibe come nighttime. Additionally, it’s a great place to hang out after a day of exploring Son Tra. Click here for directions.
Where to Stay in Da Nang: FAQs
Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about where to stay in Da Nang:
The best area of Da Nang for tourists is My An, because it offers great hotels, restaurants, and easy beach access.
All things considered, you should avoid staying in areas like Hoa Khanh Industrial Zone and some western parts of the central Hai Chau District which can be less tourist-friendly and rather more set up for locals.
In general, Da Nang is considered a very safe place. However, the safest areas for tourists will be the popular districts of Hai Chau and My An. Regardless of where you travel, you should always practice general safety and security with your belongings at all times.
Yes, it does matter where you stay in Da Nang, as it depends on the intentions of your trip. My An offers better access to the beach and many great coworking cafes and spaces, while Hai Chau has more of a city center feel and better amenities.
Beauty is subjective, but for me, the Hao Hai district to the south of Da Nang is the most beautiful. It serves easy access to the Marble Mountains and stunning stretches of coastline, and above all, the views are picturesque at every turn.
Da Nang is quite walkable in areas like the city center and along the beachfront. However, some parts, especially industrial zones, are less pedestrian-friendly.
Undoubtedly, the best area to stay in Da Nang to be close to everything is Hai Chau. The central location allows access to everything the city has to offer while providing ample accommodation options and things to do within the district itself.
The best way to get around Da Nang is by using Grab. Similar to Uber, Grab is an easy-to-use app with prices and details confirmed in English. The driver’s arrival and subsequent journeys are tracked in real time for added safety.
The best area for digital nomads in Da Nang is My An. For this reason, this is where I spent much of my time in the city. There are a significant number of laptop-friendly cafes and dedicated coworking spaces in this area.
When considering where to stay in Da Nang with parking, use a website like Booking.com which identifies whether parking is available and included in the rate. Most large hotels include parking as standard but apartments, B & Bs and even the best guesthouse in Da Nang may have limited parking options.
In Conclusion
I enjoyed writing about my favorite areas of Da Nang. I hope this article has given you plenty of food for thought as you plan a stay in the city.
Be sure to consider exactly what you want from your time in Da Nang before confirming any accommodation. The city’s different districts all offer a varying level of culture, fun, and enjoyment that I’m sure you are going to love. Enjoy Da Nang!
The post Where to Stay in Da Nang (Best Areas & Places) appeared first on Goats On The Road.
