I speak fluent Vietnamese and have traveled to many places in Vietnam, including Da Nang. I understand that finding where to stay in Da Nang as a first-timer can be overwhelming. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places in Da Nang for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Da Nang for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Da Nang and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.
Before get into the detail of the main topic, let’s look at some facts about Da Nang:
Da Nang is one of the most famous tourist beach destinations in central Vietnam. It is the largest city in the Central Vietnam and serves as an important economic, cultural, and educational hub.
Da Nang is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches. My Khe Beach, Bac My An Beach, and Non Nuoc Beach are some of the most popular beaches in the city.
The city is home to the Han River with numerous bridges, including the iconic Dragon Bridge and Han River Bridge, particularly picturesque when lit up at night.
In addition to the beach, the city is home to numerous attractions including the Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son), Cham Museum, Ba Na Hills, and the scenic Hai Van Pass with breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes.
Ba Na Hills is a hill station and resort area with a French village, cable car, and a replica of the Golden Bridge held up by giant stone hands.
When visiting Da Nang, you can easily take day trips to other popular tourist destinations in central Vietnam such as Hoi An ancient town, My Son Sanctuary, Cham Island, and Hue.
Da Nang offers a diverse culinary scene with a focus on seafood. Local specialties include banh trang cuon thit heo (rice paper rolls with pork), mi quang (turmeric noodle soup), and banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancakes).
The city has an international airport, making it easily accessible by air. The city is well-connected by road and rail, providing convenient transportation options.
Is Da Nang safe to visit?
Yes, Da Nang, like any other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, is generally safe to visit. The local people here are very friendly and helpful. It’s always important to use common sense, take care of your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic and busy, so always watch out for the traffic when crossing the road. Also, check the weather before you go, and avoid flooding/typhoons from late June to August.
Da Nang has a tropical climate, so it’s recommended to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
Where to stay in Da Nang for the first time?
The best and safest areas to stay in Da Nang for first-timers and tourists are the City Center, Han River Waterfront, My Khe Beach, Bac My An Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, and Son Tra Peninsula.
Danang City Center, including Han River Waterfront, is one of the most popular areas for first visit. This area offers a central location with easy access to shops, restaurants, traditional markets, and cultural attractions such as Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture.
If you want to stay right on the beach with a lively atmosphere and easy access to the downtown, I recommend staying in My Khe Beach. My Khe Beach is one of the best beaches in Vietnam, where you can enjoy swimming and water sports. It is a short Grab taxi ride from the city center.
For a quieter beach holiday, you can consider booking your accommodation at Bac My An Beach and Non Nuoc Beach. These areas are a little bit further from Downtown Da Nang, so it will require driving/ taking Grab taxis (cheap and plentiful).
Son Tra Peninsula offers a mix of beach and mountain scenery, home to the Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda. There are limited accommodation options in this area. You can stay at the InterContinental hotel or find nearby accommodation.
On one of my trips to Da Nang, I stayed in the downtown area at the mid-range Fivitel Boutique Da Nang. It was a good value for money accommodation in a prime location, easy access to the River, the beach, and tourist amenities. My room was on the 15th floor with beautiful views of the Dragon Bridge.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Da Nang for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Da Nang, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Da Nang have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Safe areas to stay in Da Nang for first-timers and tourists
1. Da Nang City Center
Da Nang City Center is a vibrant and convenient base for first-time visitors who want to be close to cultural attractions, have easy access to various attractions, restaurants, cafes, and shopping areas.
You’ll be close to cultural and historical sites, such as the Da Nang Cathedral, Han Market, and the Museum of Cham Sculpture.
The City Center is home to a diverse range of dining options, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. The area also has a lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs.
You’ll find a variety of shops and markets, including the bustling Han Market, where you can purchase local goods and souvenirs.
The City Center serves as a transportation hub with easy access to the airport, train station, and major roads. You can easily get to the beach and airport and popular attractions by using Grab taxi, and organize tours.
Best places to stay in Da Nang City Center for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Novotel Danang Premier Han River, great 5-star hotel centrally located on the west bank of the Han River in central Da Nang. Convenient base to explore the city, walking distance to the River, and the dragon bridge; short Grab ride to the beach. It has spacious modern rooms, outdoor swimming pool, paid airport shuttle services, and very good breakfast.
Mid-range ($$): Fivitel Boutique Da Nang, 4-star good value for money hotel in downtown Da Nang in Hai Chau district. It has a beautiful view of the city and Dragon Bridge at night. Only a few mins Grab ride from the airport and the beach. Easy access to Song Han Bridge, Cham Museum, and Indochina Riverside Mall. It has a pool, kids’ club, and 24-hour front desk, and an excellent buffet breakfast.
Budget ($): Seahorse Signature Danang Hotel by Haviland, 3-star good value for money accommodation in the heart of the city, close to the river and Love Lock Bridge Da Nang, and Dragon bridge. There are many restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets in its surroundings. It features exceptional breakfast, outdoor swimming pool, parking, and family rooms.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CITY CENTER2. Han River Waterfront
Staying along the Han River Waterfront is a good choice for those who appreciate scenic views, central location, and proximity to cultural attractions and the beaches.
The Han River Waterfront provides stunning views of the river and the city skyline, especially at night when the bridges are illuminated. The Dragon Bridge and the Love Lock Bridge are iconic structures often lit up with colorful lights.
You can enjoy leisurely strolls along the river promenade, where you can find parks, sculptures, and outdoor spaces for relaxation.
There are numerous riverside restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine while taking in the river views.
The Han River Waterfront is known for its vibrant nightlife. You can find bars and clubs that offer entertainment well into the night.
Best places to stay in Han River Waterfront for first-time tourists:
Luxury ($$$): Meliá Vinpearl Danang Riverfront, 5-star hotel conveniently located on Tran Hung Dao Street, next to the Han river, offering great views of the Dragon bridge and the river. It has a beautiful pool, fitness center, kid’s club, and 3 restaurants.
Mid-range ($$): HAIAN Riverfront Hotel Da Nang, great 4-star hotel in a prime location in downtown Da Nang, near the dragon bridge. You can find many restaurants and cafes nearby. Within walking distance to the Pink Cathedral and Han Market. It has an onsite bar, indoor pool, and currency exchange.
Budget ($): Star City Riverside Hotel By Haviland, 3-star good value for money accommodation in the right bank of the Han River, offering 24-hour front desk and free parking. It has beautiful views over the city, especially in the night
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HAN RIVER WATERFRONT3. My Khe Beach
My Khe Beach is the best place to stay in Da Nang for the beach. It is relatively close to both the City Center, Han River, and the airport, making it convenient for travelers.
My Khe is a renowned beach with fine white sand and clear blue waters. It’s known for its cleanliness and is suitable for swimming and various water activities such as surfing, jet-skiing, and paddleboarding
There are numerous hotels and resorts directly along or within walking distance of My Khe Beach, offering stunning sea views.
The beach area is lined with seafood restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local Vietnamese dishes while listening to the sound of the waves.
The westward-facing beach provides a fantastic setting for watching the sunset over the ocean.
Best places to stay in My Khe Beach for first-time visitors:
Luxury ($$$): TMS Hotel Da Nang Beach, 5-star accommodation in a prime location, steps away from famous My Khe Beach and 9 mins walk to Bac My An Beach. Close to many bars and restaurants. Rooms are big, clean and have a nice view of the beach.
Luxury ($$$): Four Points by Sheraton Danang, great 5-star seafront hotel, located in the My Khe Beach district, across the beach and close to the Dragon bridge. It features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and 3 restaurants. You can use Grab taxi to get around which is a plentiful and cheap way to get around.
Mid-range ($$): SOCO Hotel by THG, 4-star beachfront hotel, located within walking distance from My Khe Beach, lots of coffee shops and restaurants nearby. The hotel has airport shuttle services, luggage storage, and free parking facilities. Guest rooms are spacious and clean.
Budget ($): Haka Boutique Hotel, good value for money 3-star accommodation, within a quieter residential area, close to the beach. You can rent a scooter from the hotel with a reasonable price. There are many restaurants and shops nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN MY KHE BEACH4. Bac My An Beach
Bac My An Beach is another popular beach in Da Nang, located right next to My Khe Beach. You can find some accommodations in this area, but keep in mind that it is little further from the city center compared to My Khe Beach.
Like many beaches in Da Nang, Bac My An Beach boasts clean sands and clear waters, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation.
Best places to stay in Da Nang in Bac My An Beach:
Luxury ($$$): Pullman Danang Beach Resort, 5-star hotel near Bac My An Beach, featuring an amazing private beach and infinity pool. 10-15 minute walk/ Grab taxi ride to the main tourist areas.
Mid-range ($$): Lavencos Hotel Da Nang, 4-star hotel located on Vo Nguyen Giap Street, 6 mins walk to My An beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, fitness center, terrace, and shared lounge.
Budget ($): Titan Hotel Da Nang, 3-star hotel, close to My An Beach, some bars and restaurants. It has a 24-hour front desk, free use of bicycles, free parking, and free airport shuttle services.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN BAC MY AN BEACH5. Non Nuoc Beach
Non Nuoc Beach is an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful and scenic beach retreat. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate a more secluded environment, luxury accommodations, and the opportunity to explore nearby cultural attractions like the Marble Mountains.
If you prefer a tranquil beach experience and don’t mind being a bit farther from the city center, Non Nuoc Beach is a great option in Da Nang. It is located close to Hoi An, so it can be a good base to explore both cities.
Best places to stay in Da Nang in Non Nuoc Beach:
Luxury ($$$): Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, Non Nuoc Beach Villas, 5-star hotel in the Non Nuoc Beach area, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and comfortable villas. Walking distance from Ngu Hanh Son. Good place for families to relax and to explore both Da nang and Hoi An. Attractions are a short taxi ride away.
Luxury ($$$): Melia Danang Beach Resort, 5-star beautiful located along the coastline of Non Nuoc Beach between Danang and Hoi An. It is only a few mins walk from Ngu Hanh Son Mountain and a short Grab ride to Hoi An ancient town. It has 7 swimming pools, airport transfer, and comfortable family rooms. Great base for relaxing.
Luxury ($$$): Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Center, 5-star beachfront hotel with a private beach area, 2 swimming pools, and very good breakfast. Good location to both Da Nang and Hoi an by taxi.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN NON NUOC BEACH6. Son Tra Peninsula
Son Tra Peninsula is a great area for travelers seeking a more secluded retreat and are interested in exploring cultural and natural attractions.
Son Tra Peninsula is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush green hills, pristine beaches, and the diverse ecosystems of the Son Tra Nature Reserve.
The peninsula is home to Monkey Mountain, where you can find the Linh Ung Pagoda and a giant Lady Buddha statue overlooking the city.
Best places to stay in Da Nang in Son Tra Peninsula:
- Luxury ($$$): InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, an IHG Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Nguyen Gia Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Seashore Hotel & Apartment
In conclusion, Da Nang City Center, Han River Waterfront, My Khe Beach, Bac My An Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, and Son Tra Peninsula are the best places to stay in Da Nang for first-timers and tourists. These are safe central popular areas for travelers, offering a variety of accommodations and tourist facilities.
Regardless of the neighborhood you stay in Da nang, it’s always essential to take standard precautions, take care of your belongings, and monitor media for bad weather to have a safe trip.
You can continue reading other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam in these articles:
- Best places to stay in Vietnam first time
- Best places to stay in Hanoi first time
- Best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City first time
- Best places to stay in Dalat for first time
- Best places to stay in Hue for first time
- Best places to stay in Nha Trang for first time
- Best places to stay in Hoi An for first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Da Nang. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.