Cover Take in Da Nang’s rich culture and history (Photo: Facebook/InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort)

Vietnam’s underdog takes centre stage as a city that promises to be fresh and exciting

The lesser-known Vietnamese city of Da Nang has seen a steady increase in tourist numbers thanks to its multiple attractions. The city is fast becoming a popular youth destination, thanks to the influx of posts and reels making its rounds on social media. Steeped in culture and heritage, Da Nang is best known for housing beautiful pagoda and grottoes.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, eat delicious local cuisine, or simply relax by the beach—Da Nang definitely has something in store to satisfy your desire.

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The Instagram traveller


 

Golden Bridge

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Above The Golden Bridge (Photo: Unsplash)

Da Nang’s iconic Golden Bridge is exceedingly instagram-worthy. Supported by two titan hands, the bridge envisions a fantasy world populated by giants. In reality, the bridge is famed for its architectural excellence and has received multiple global awards in recognition of its design. Situated amongst the lush nature on top of Ba Na Hills, the bridge’s gold-gilded frame stands out in its misty surroundings, creating otherworldly photos suitable for your Instagram feed.

Dragon Bridge

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Above The Dragon Bridge (Photo: Unsplash)

Another Da Nang bridge that’s sure to be a hit on social media—the Dragon Bridge. A symbol of the Vietnamese city, an undulating golden dragon sits atop the 666 metre crossing in downtown Da Nang. The bridge runs across the Hàn River and is especially beautiful at night with light illuminations. Visit the stunning bridge on weekend nights and you’ll find that it even breathes fire as part of a special performance.

The foodie traveller


 

Dragon Bridge night markets

No visit to Da Nang is complete without munching on the delectable local cuisine it has to offer. Descend to the Dragon Bridge night market and you’ll find a host of fresh seafood awaiting your eager tastebuds. Sink your teeth into the city’s must try foods, including Mi Quang (Vietnamese Turmeric Noodle) and Bánh Tráng Nướng (Grilled Vietnamese Rice Paper with Egg, Pork, and Condiments).

The relaxed traveller


 

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

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Photo 1 of 4 Indulge in a meal with a spectacular view (Photo: Facebook/InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort)
Photo 2 of 4 Daily tai chi classes (Photo: Facebook/InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort)
Photo 3 of 4 Art classes at the kid’s club (Photo: Facebook/InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort)
Photo 4 of 4 Mi Sol Spa (Photo: Facebook/InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort)

Perched on a private bay overlooking the Son Tra Peninsula, InterContinental Da Nang is set to take all your worries away. Retreat into the luxurious resort and partake in daily tai chi classes, or pamper yourself at the Mi Sol Spa that incorporates meditation into its sessions. Send the little ones off to the kid’s club while you unwind, it provides various arts and crafts workshops that are rich with local culture.

My Khe Beach

Famous for its smooth white sand and clear warm waters, My Khe beach is beloved for its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Lauded by many as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, you’ll definitely feel revitalised after a day spent sunbathing and taking in all the natural beauty it has to offer.

The adventurous traveller


 

The Marble Mountains

A cluster of five stunning limestone peaks named after elements of oriental philosophy (metal, plant, water, fire, and soil), the Marble Mountains have become a proud natural attraction of the city. With its prime geographical location, the Vietnamese kings of the past built stunning temples and pagodas around the landmark. So get your checklist ready and start the hike on the Marble Mountains, ticking off each majestic attraction on your way.

Son Tra Mountain

Familiar to some as Monkey Mountain, a visit to this ridge is a must for the adventurous. Home to a diverse ecosystem, over 1,000 plant and 120 animal species inhabit the mountain, including the endangered Red-shanked doc langurs. Hike across untouched nature and reward yourself with a bird’s-eye view of downtown Da Nang at its peak.

The cultural traveller


 

Linh Ung Pagoda

A testament to the emergence of Buddhism in Vietnam, legend has it that the pagoda was built after a Buddha statue drifted to the site during the Nguyen Dynasty. Since then, the pagoda is often visited by both the faithful and tourists, and is nicknamed ‘Buddhist paradise on earth’. It also houses the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam—Lady Buddha Da Nang, who overlooks the Son Tra Peninsula.

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