Must-Visit Destinations Around Da Nang, Hoi An & Hue

The Imperial City of Hue

Once the seat of Vietnam’s emperors, Hue’s Imperial City is a sprawling citadel surrounded by thick stone walls and a moat, filled with palaces, ancient temples, and royal tombs. Explore faded red gates, dragon-carved staircases, and hidden gardens that whisper stories from the Nguyen Dynasty. Early mornings are best, when the mist still hangs over the Perfume River, giving the whole place a quiet, sacred energy.

Hai Van Pass

A legendary stretch of road cutting through the mountains between Da Nang and Hue. Riding or driving the Hai Van Pass is a must—not just for the incredible views of sea and sky, but for the feeling of freedom it gives. The clouds often hang low (Hai Van literally means “Ocean Clouds”), creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Stop at the old French bunkers at the summit for a dose of history and panoramic photos.

The Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills

Floating above the clouds, the Golden Bridge is held aloft by two giant hands carved to look like ancient stone. It’s surreal, beautiful, and wildly photogenic. But that’s just the beginning—Ba Na Hills is a full mountaintop resort with a cable car ride through jungle clouds, European-style villages, gardens, and even a fantasy theme park. It’s touristy, yes—but unforgettable.

My Khe Beach

A long stretch of white sand kissed by gentle waves, My Khe is one of Da Nang’s most popular beaches—and for good reason. You’ll find beach bars, seafood shacks, sunrise yoga, and clean waters perfect for swimming or paddle boarding. Early mornings attract local fishermen and fitness enthusiasts, while evenings turn the beach into a sunset paradise.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Walking into Hoi An feels like entering a storybook. Lanterns swing from yellow-walled homes, boats glide down the Thu Bon River, and centuries-old merchant houses now host cozy cafes and artisanal shops. The entire town is a UNESCO site, and it’s especially magical at night when the lanterns light up and the air fills with traditional music. Don’t forget to try local delicacies like cao lầu noodles and white rose dumplings.

The Marble Mountains

Just a short drive from Da Nang city center, the Marble Mountains rise unexpectedly from the coastal plains. These five limestone hills are named after the five elements—metal, water, wood, fire, and earth—and are riddled with caves, tunnels, and centuries-old pagodas. Climb the stairs to panoramic viewpoints, explore spiritual cave temples, and feel the ancient energy that locals still respect today.

Hoi An’s Countryside

Beyond the lantern-lit streets lies a peaceful world of rice fields, buffalo paths, and quiet farming villages. Rent a bicycle or join a countryside tour to visit water coconut groves, traditional craft houses, and local markets where time seems to slow down. This is the other side of Hoi An—rural, real, and deeply rooted in Vietnamese tradition.

Linh Ung Pagoda & Son Tra Peninsula

Perched high above Da Nang’s coastline, the Linh Ung Pagoda is home to the 67-meter tall Lady Buddha statue—visible from nearly anywhere in the city. This sacred site offers sweeping views of the East Sea, Da Nang Bay, and the lush Son Tra Peninsula, a protected nature reserve home to rare wildlife like the red-shanked douc langur. A sunrise visit here feels like a meditation.

Elephant Springs (Suối Voi)

Tucked between Da Nang and Hue, Elephant Springs is a local favorite for its natural rock pools, jungle vibes, and chill picnic atmosphere. Water flows through smooth stone formations, forming shallow pools ideal for swimming or relaxing in a bamboo hut with friends. If you’re driving the Hai Van route, it makes a perfect mid-journey stop to cool off.

Thanh Toan Bridge & Hue Countryside

Just outside Hue, you’ll find this centuries-old covered bridge arching gently over a quiet canal. It’s surrounded by a traditional village where life hasn’t changed much in decades—farmers tend rice fields, women dry herbs under the sun, and bicycles are still the main mode of transport. A nearby museum showcases tools and farming life, offering a glimpse into rural Vietnamese culture most visitors miss.