Intro / Overview

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of limestone karsts and isles rising from emerald waters. This natural wonder offers breathtaking seascapes, mystical caves, and a sense of tranquility that captivates every visitor. The bay's ethereal beauty at sunrise and sunset creates unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

How to Get There

• By Road: 4-hour drive from Hanoi (170km) via expressway. Private cars cost around 1,500,000 VND ($60) one way.
• By Tour: Most visitors book organized tours from Hanoi which include transportation. Tours range from 750,000 VND ($30) for budget options.
• By Seaplane: Scenic 45-minute flight from Hanoi (expensive but spectacular). Prices start at 4,000,000 VND ($160) one way.

Best Time to Visit

October to April offers pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. September to November and March to May provide the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds. Summer months (June-August) can be hot and prone to typhoons.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days for a comprehensive experience including an overnight cruise. Day trips are possible but don't capture the full magic of the bay at sunrise and sunset.

Cost Tips

• Day tours: 750,000 - 1,250,000 VND ($30-50) per person
• Overnight cruises: 2,000,000 - 7,500,000 VND ($80-300+) depending on luxury level
• Entrance fee: 375,000 VND ($15) (included in most tours)
• Budget tip: Book cruises directly with operators rather than through agencies for better rates

Where to Stay

• Overnight Cruises: Range from budget to luxury options (Paradise Cruises, Bhaya Cruises)
• Ha Long City: Budget hotels and hostels for those on day trips (500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/$20-40 per night)
• Tuan Chau Island: Resort accommodations with entertainment facilities (1,500,000+ VND/$60+ per night)

Safety & Health

• Life jackets are mandatory on all boats and tours
• Bring motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness
• Use sun protection even on cloudy days
• Drink only bottled water on tours

Highlights / Things to Do

• Explore stunning caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave)
• Kayak through hidden lagoons and among limestone karsts
• Watch the sunset over the bay from your cruise deck
• Visit floating fishing villages to see local life on water
• Tai Chi sessions at dawn on the cruise deck

Intro / Overview

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern development. The city's charming Old Quarter, colonial architecture, tranquil lakes, and vibrant street food culture create an intoxicating atmosphere that visitors find irresistible. The contrast between the bustling streets and serene temples offers a unique cultural experience that defines Vietnam's soul.

How to Get There

• By Air: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) serves domestic and international flights. Airport to city center: 500,000 VND ($20) by taxi or 300,000 VND ($12) by bus.
• By Train: Connected to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City (1,000,000 VND/$40), Hue (700,000 VND/$28), and Da Nang (800,000 VND/$32).
• By Bus: Extensive network connecting Hanoi with other northern provinces. Fares start at 100,000 VND ($4) for nearby cities.

Best Time to Visit

October to April offers the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Spring (February-April) brings beautiful flowers and festivals, while autumn (September-November) features clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Duration Recommendation

3-4 days to explore the city's main attractions, experience the food scene, and take day trips to nearby sites like Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh.

Cost Tips

• Mid-range hotel: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND ($40-80) per night
• Budget meal: 25,000 - 75,000 VND ($1-3) from street vendors
• Restaurant meal: 125,000 - 375,000 VND ($5-15) per person
• Attraction fees: 25,000 - 125,000 VND ($1-5) for most sites
• Budget tip: Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for affordable transportation

Where to Stay

• Old Quarter: Best location for first-time visitors, full of character and close to attractions (500,000 - 1,500,000 VND/$20-60 per night)
• Tay Ho (West Lake): Quieter area with upscale hotels and expat-friendly cafes (1,500,000+ VND/$60+ per night)
• Hoan Kiem District: Central location near the lake, range of accommodation options (700,000 - 2,000,000 VND/$28-80 per night)

Safety & Health

• Be cautious when crossing streets - traffic can be chaotic
• Drink bottled water and avoid ice in street drinks
• Watch out for motorbike snatch thefts - keep valuables secure
• Carry a card with your hotel's name and address in Vietnamese

Highlights / Things to Do

• Explore the historic Old Quarter's 36 merchant streets
• Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university
• Watch the water puppet show at Thang Long Theatre
• Enjoy street food specialties like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee
• Relax by Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple

Intro / Overview

Hoi An Ancient Town is a beautifully preserved trading port dating back to the 15th century. Known for its iconic yellow buildings, lantern-lit streets, and tailor shops, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a magical step back in time. The town's enchanting atmosphere, especially during the monthly lantern festival, creates a fairy-tale experience that captivates all who visit.

How to Get There

• By Air: Fly to Da Nang International Airport (30km away), then take a taxi (300,000 VND/$12) or shuttle (100,000 VND/$4).
• By Train: Arrive at Da Nang Railway Station, then continue by taxi (250,000 VND/$10) or bus (50,000 VND/$2) (45 minutes).
• By Bus: Direct buses from Hue (150,000 VND/$6, 3 hours), Da Nang (50,000 VND/$2, 45 minutes), and Nha Trang (250,000 VND/$10, 10 hours).

Best Time to Visit

February to July offers the best weather with minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures. The monthly full moon lantern festival is a magical time to visit. Avoid October and November when heavy rains and flooding can occur.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days to fully explore the ancient town, enjoy the beaches, and perhaps take a cooking class or bicycle tour of the surrounding countryside.

Cost Tips

• Entrance fee to Ancient Town: 150,000 VND ($6) (valid for multiple days)
• Mid-range hotel: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND ($40-80) per night
• Custom-made clothing: 375,000 - 1,250,000 VND ($15-50) for dresses, shirts, or suits
• Street food meal: 25,000 - 75,000 VND ($1-3)
• Budget tip: Rent a bicycle for 25,000 - 50,000 VND ($1-2) per day to explore the town and nearby beaches

Where to Stay

• Ancient Town: Charming but more expensive, perfect for atmosphere (1,500,000+ VND/$60+ per night)
• An Bang Beach: Relaxed beachfront area with resorts and guesthouses (1,000,000 - 2,500,000 VND/$40-100 per night)
• Cua Dai Beach: Luxury resorts and quieter beaches (note: some erosion issues) (2,000,000+ VND/$80+ per night)
• Town outskirts: More budget-friendly options, a short walk or bike ride from the center (500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/$20-40 per night)

Safety & Health

• Be cautious during the rainy season (September-December) due to potential flooding
• Use mosquito repellent, especially in the evening
• Drink bottled water and be cautious with raw foods
• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas, especially during the night market

Highlights / Things to Do

• Wander the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town at night
• Get custom-tailored clothing made in one day from skilled tailors
• Take a Vietnamese cooking class using fresh ingredients from the market
• Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and historic assembly halls
• Cycle to nearby rice paddies and traditional villages

Intro / Overview

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. The city's UNESCO-listed Citadel, imperial tombs, and pagodas offer a glimpse into Vietnam's royal past, while its distinctive cuisine delights food lovers. The Perfume River winding through the city adds to its poetic charm, creating a serene atmosphere that reflects its imperial heritage.

How to Get There

• By Air: Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) with flights from Hanoi (1,500,000 VND/$60) and Ho Chi Minh City (1,200,000 VND/$48).
• By Train: Hue is a major stop on the Reunification Express line connecting Hanoi (700,000 VND/$28) and Ho Chi Minh City (1,000,000 VND/$40).
• By Bus: Regular services from Da Nang (100,000 VND/$4, 2-3 hours), Hoi An (150,000 VND/$6, 3-4 hours), and Hanoi (300,000 VND/$12, 12-14 hours).

Best Time to Visit

March to August offers the driest weather with plenty of sunshine. The Hue Festival, held every two years (usually in April), is an excellent time to experience the city's cultural heritage. Avoid October to December when heavy rains can cause flooding.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days to explore the Citadel, imperial tombs, and pagodas, plus enjoy the local cuisine. Many visitors combine Hue with Hoi An in a central Vietnam itinerary.

Cost Tips

• Citadel entrance fee: 150,000 VND ($6)
• Imperial tomb combo ticket: 250,000 - 375,000 VND ($10-15) for 3 tombs
• Mid-range hotel: 750,000 - 1,500,000 VND ($30-60) per night
• Bicycle rental: 25,000 - 50,000 VND ($1-2) per day
• Budget tip: Hire a motorbike with driver for 375,000 - 500,000 VND ($15-20) per day to visit multiple tombs efficiently

Where to Stay

• City Center: Close to the Citadel and restaurants, range of budget to mid-range hotels (500,000 - 1,500,000 VND/$20-60 per night)
• Perfume River: Hotels with river views, some offering boat access to attractions (1,000,000+ VND/$40+ per night)
• Pham Ngu Lao Area: Backpacker district with budget accommodations and lively atmosphere (300,000 - 750,000 VND/$12-30 per night)

Safety & Health

• Be prepared for hot weather - bring sun protection and stay hydrated
• Use mosquito repellent, especially when visiting outdoor sites
• Be cautious when crossing streets as traffic can be busy
• During rainy season, check weather forecasts for potential flooding

Highlights / Things to Do

• Explore the vast Imperial Citadel, the former home of Nguyen Dynasty emperors
• Visit the ornate imperial tombs of Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, and Minh Mang
• Take a sunset boat cruise on the Perfume River
• Sample Hue's distinctive imperial cuisine, including bun bo Hue and banh khoai
• Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue's iconic seven-tiered pagoda

Intro / Overview

Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the world's largest cave systems and oldest karst mountains. Home to over 300 caves and grottoes, including the colossal Son Doong Cave, this park offers unparalleled adventures for nature lovers and explorers. The park's pristine jungle, underground rivers, and hidden caves create a mystical landscape that feels like stepping into another world.

How to Get There

• By Air: Fly to Dong Hoi Airport (50km away), then take a taxi (500,000 VND/$20) or shuttle (150,000 VND/$6).
• By Train: Arrive at Dong Hoi Railway Station, then continue by taxi (500,000 VND/$20) or bus (100,000 VND/$4) (1 hour).
• By Bus: Direct buses from Hanoi (250,000 VND/$10, 10 hours), Hue (150,000 VND/$6, 4 hours), and Da Nang (200,000 VND/$8, 6 hours).

Best Time to Visit

February to August offers the best conditions for cave exploration with dry weather and moderate temperatures. Avoid September to January when heavy rains can cause flooding and make some caves inaccessible. Son Doong Cave expeditions are only available from February to August.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days for the main attractions. Serious cavers and adventure seekers may spend a week or more exploring deeper into the park and undertaking multi-day treks to remote caves.

Cost Tips

• Phong Nha Cave boat tour: 375,000 - 500,000 VND ($15-20)
• Paradise Cave tour: 375,000 VND ($15) for basic access, 750,000+ VND ($30+) for electric car service
• Mid-range hotel: 625,000 - 1,250,000 VND ($25-50) per night
• Son Doong Cave expedition: 75,000,000+ VND ($3,000+) (book years in advance)
• Budget tip: Rent a motorbike for 125,000 - 250,000 VND ($5-10) per day to explore the park independently

Where to Stay

• Phong Nha Village: Main tourist area with guesthouses, homestays, and mid-range hotels (375,000 - 1,250,000 VND/$15-50 per night)
• Son Trach Town: More local experience with budget accommodations (250,000 - 625,000 VND/$10-25 per night)
• Eco-lodges: Several options in the countryside surrounding the park (750,000+ VND/$30+ per night)

Safety & Health

• Book tours with reputable companies that provide proper safety equipment
• Bring sturdy footwear with good grip for cave exploration
• Use insect repellent - the jungle has mosquitoes and other insects
• Inform others of your plans when exploring remote areas
• Carry a basic first aid kit for minor injuries

Highlights / Things to Do

• Take a boat tour through the spectacular Phong Nha Cave
• Explore Paradise Cave, one of the world's longest dry caves
• Zip-line and swim in Dark Cave (Hang Toi)
• Trek through the jungle to discover lesser-known caves like Hang Va and Hang En
• Visit the 8 Ladies Cave and War Memorial to learn about Vietnam's history

Intro / Overview

Sapa is a breathtaking mountain town in northern Vietnam, famous for its terraced rice fields, ethnic minority cultures, and stunning views of Fansipan, Indochina's highest peak. The cool climate, lush landscapes, and vibrant hill tribe communities make it a must-visit destination. The mist-shrouded mountains and terraced fields create a surreal landscape that changes dramatically with the seasons, offering photographers endless opportunities.

How to Get There

• By Train: Overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai (500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/$20-40), then 1-hour bus or taxi (100,000 VND/$4) to Sapa.
• By Bus: Direct sleeper buses from Hanoi (250,000 - 375,000 VND/$10-15, 5-6 hours).
• By Private Car: 5-hour drive from Hanoi via new expressway (1,250,000 VND/$50 one way).

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November offer the best weather and clearest views. September-October is harvest season when the rice terraces turn golden. December-February can be cold with occasional mist and frost, while June-August is the rainy season with reduced visibility.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days for a standard visit including trekking and village exploration. Serious trekkers may want 4-5 days to reach more remote villages and attempt Fansipan summit.

Cost Tips

• Trekking guide: 375,000 - 625,000 VND ($15-25) per day
• Homestay: 250,000 - 500,000 VND ($10-20) per night including meals
• Mid-range hotel: 750,000 - 1,500,000 VND ($30-60) per night
• Fansipan cable car: 625,000 VND ($25) one way
• Budget tip: Join a group trek to share guide costs and meet other travelers

Where to Stay

• Sapa Town: Hotels with mountain views, close to restaurants and tour operators (750,000 - 2,000,000 VND/$30-80 per night)
• Village Homestays: Authentic experience with local families in villages like Ta Van and Lao Chai (250,000 - 500,000 VND/$10-20 per night)
• Mountain Resorts: Luxury options with spas and panoramic views (2,500,000+ VND/$100+ per night)

Safety & Health

• Bring warm clothing even in summer as mountain temperatures can drop significantly
• Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip for slippery trails
• Use sun protection - UV is stronger at higher altitudes
• Be respectful when photographing ethnic minority people - ask permission first
• Carry rain gear year-round as weather can change quickly

Highlights / Things to Do

• Trek through terraced rice fields to traditional hill tribe villages
• Ride the cable car to the summit of Mount Fansipan for spectacular views
• Visit the vibrant Sapa Market to see ethnic minorities in traditional dress
• Explore the Love Waterfall and Tram Ton Pass
• Experience a homestay with a local family to learn about their culture and traditions

Intro / Overview

Ninh Binh, often called "Halong Bay on land," features stunning limestone karsts rising from rice paddies and winding rivers. This peaceful region is home to ancient capitals, spiritual sites, and breathtaking natural landscapes that offer a more tranquil alternative to crowded tourist spots. The serene waterways weaving through dramatic limestone formations create a magical landscape that feels both ancient and timeless.

How to Get There

• By Road: 2-hour drive from Hanoi (100km) via expressway. Private car costs 1,000,000 VND ($40) one way.
• By Train: Regular trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh City (125,000 - 250,000 VND/$5-10, 2.5 hours).
• By Bus: Frequent services from Hanoi's Giap Bat or My Dinh stations (75,000 - 125,000 VND/$3-5, 2 hours).

Best Time to Visit

May to June offers the best weather with lush green rice paddies and minimal rainfall. September to November is also pleasant with harvest season colors. Avoid January and February when it can be cold and drizzly, and July-August when it's hottest and most crowded.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days to explore the main attractions including Tam Coc, Trang An, and Hoa Lu. Many visitors visit as a day trip from Hanoi, but staying overnight allows for a more relaxed experience.

Cost Tips

• Tam Coc boat tour: 175,000 - 250,000 VND ($7-10) per boat (holds 2 people)
• Trang An boat tour: 250,000 - 375,000 VND ($10-15) per person
• Bai Dinh Pagoda entrance: 75,000 VND ($3)
• Mid-range hotel: 750,000 - 1,250,000 VND ($30-50) per night
• Budget tip: Rent a bicycle for 25,000 - 50,000 VND ($1-2) per day to explore the countryside at your own pace

Where to Stay

• Tam Coc Area: Close to boat tours, range of homestays and mid-range hotels (500,000 - 1,250,000 VND/$20-50 per night)
• Ninh Binh City: More urban experience with better restaurant options (625,000 - 1,500,000 VND/$25-60 per night)
• Trang An Area: Quieter accommodations near the UNESCO site (750,000 - 1,750,000 VND/$30-70 per night)

Safety & Health

• Bring sun protection and a hat for boat tours - there's little shade
• Use mosquito repellent, especially in the evening
• Be prepared for occasional scam attempts with boat rowers asking for extra tips
• Stay hydrated during outdoor activities

Highlights / Things to Do

• Take a traditional sampan boat ride through Tam Coc's limestone caves and rice fields
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape complex by boat
• Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu with its Dinh and Le temples
• Climb the 500 steps to Mua Cave for panoramic views of the region
• Discover the massive Bai Dinh Pagoda complex, Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist complex

Intro / Overview

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, swamps, and islands in southern Vietnam. Known as "Vietnam's Rice Basket," this fertile region offers a glimpse into traditional river life, floating markets, lush orchards, and a unique culture centered around the waterways that sustain it. The vibrant floating markets at dawn, where locals trade fruits and vegetables from their boats, provide a colorful spectacle that captures the essence of delta life.

How to Get There

• By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City to major delta towns like Can Tho (125,000 - 200,000 VND/$5-8, 3-4 hours) or My Tho (75,000 - 125,000 VND/$3-5, 2 hours).
• By Boat: Express hydrofoils from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho (250,000 VND/$10) or other delta towns.
• By Tour: Most visitors book organized tours from Ho Chi Minh City which include transportation (375,000 - 750,000 VND/$15-30 per day).

Best Time to Visit

December to April offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The floating markets are most active in the early morning (5-7 AM). The dry season (December-April) is ideal for exploring, while the wet season (May-November) brings lush landscapes but also potential flooding.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days for a comprehensive experience including floating markets, homestays, and exploring the waterways. Many visitors opt for organized tours from Ho Chi Minh City, ranging from day trips to multi-day excursions.

Cost Tips

• Day tour from Ho Chi Minh City: 375,000 - 750,000 VND ($15-30) per person
• Boat rental for small group: 250,000 - 500,000 VND ($10-20) per hour
• Homestay: 250,000 - 500,000 VND ($10-20) per night including meals
• Mid-range hotel: 750,000 - 1,250,000 VND ($30-50) per night
• Budget tip: Visit local food stalls for authentic delta cuisine at low prices

Where to Stay

• Can Tho: The delta's largest city with good accommodation options and access to Cai Rang floating market (750,000 - 2,000,000 VND/$30-80 per night)
• Vinh Long: Smaller town with homestays on islands in the Mekong River (250,000 - 750,000 VND/$10-30 per night)
• Ben Tre: Known for coconut production and quiet homestays (250,000 - 750,000 VND/$10-30 per night)
• Chau Doc: Near the Cambodian border, with interesting cultural sites (500,000 - 1,250,000 VND/$20-50 per night)

Safety & Health

• Use mosquito repellent, especially in the evening and early morning
• Drink only bottled water and be cautious with raw foods
• Bring a waterproof bag for electronics during boat trips
• Be respectful when photographing people at floating markets
• Carry cash as ATMs can be limited in smaller delta towns

Highlights / Things to Do

• Experience the vibrant Cai Rang or Cai Be floating markets at dawn
• Take a boat tour through narrow canals shaded by palm trees
• Visit fruit orchards and sample tropical fruits fresh from the tree
• Stay overnight in a homestay to experience delta family life
• Explore local cottage industries like coconut candy and rice paper making

Intro / Overview

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam's bustling economic hub and largest city. This dynamic metropolis blends French colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers, offering vibrant street life, world-class dining, and fascinating historical sites that tell the story of Vietnam's past and present. The city's energy is contagious, with motorbikes weaving through bustling streets and sidewalk cafes serving some of the country's best coffee and cuisine.

How to Get There

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) serves domestic and international flights. Airport to city center: 150,000 - 250,000 VND ($6-10) by bus or 200,000 - 300,000 VND ($8-12) by taxi.
• By Train: Connected to Hanoi (1,000,000 VND/$40) and other major cities via the Reunification Express.
• By Bus: Extensive network connecting to all southern provinces and neighboring countries. Fares start at 100,000 VND ($4) for nearby cities.

Best Time to Visit

December to March offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The city celebrates Tet (Lunar New Year) in January or February, a fascinating cultural experience though many businesses close. April and May can be hot, while June to November is the rainy season with afternoon downpours.

Duration Recommendation

3-4 days to explore the city's main attractions, experience the food scene, and take day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta.

Cost Tips

• Mid-range hotel: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND ($40-80) per night
• Budget meal: 25,000 - 75,000 VND ($1-3) from street vendors
• Restaurant meal: 125,000 - 375,000 VND ($5-15) per person
• Attraction fees: 25,000 - 125,000 VND ($1-5) for most sites
• Budget tip: Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for affordable transportation

Where to Stay

• District 1: Tourist center with hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance (1,000,000 - 3,000,000 VND/$40-120 per night)
• District 3: Quieter area near District 1 with good mid-range options (750,000 - 1,750,000 VND/$30-70 per night)
• Pham Ngu Lao Area: Backpacker district with budget accommodations and lively nightlife (375,000 - 750,000 VND/$15-30 per night)
• Thao Dien (District 2): Expatriate area with upscale restaurants and riverside accommodations (2,000,000+ VND/$80+ per night)

Safety & Health

• Be cautious of traffic - it's even more chaotic than in Hanoi
• Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas like Ben Thanh Market
• Avoid street food vendors with questionable hygiene practices
• Drink bottled water and avoid ice in street drinks
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of common scams targeting tourists

Highlights / Things to Do

• Visit the War Remnants Museum for a sobering look at Vietnam's history
• Explore the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral
• Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market
• Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels to see the underground network used during the war
• Enjoy rooftop cocktails with panoramic city views at places like Saigon Skydeck

Intro / Overview

Da Nang is Vietnam's fastest-growing city, known for its long sandy beaches, modern bridges, and proximity to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With a perfect blend of urban development and natural beauty, this coastal city offers a relaxed beach vacation combined with cultural exploration and adventure activities. The city's impressive skyline, dominated by the Dragon Bridge that breathes fire and water, reflects its rapid development while maintaining its coastal charm.

How to Get There

• By Air: Da Nang International Airport (DAD) with domestic and international flights. Airport to city center: 100,000 - 150,000 VND ($4-6) by bus or 150,000 - 200,000 VND ($6-8) by taxi.
• By Train: Major stop on the Reunification Express line connecting Hanoi (700,000 VND/$28) and Ho Chi Minh City (1,000,000 VND/$40).
• By Bus: Regular services from Hue (100,000 VND/$4, 2-3 hours), Hoi An (50,000 VND/$2, 45 minutes), and other central cities.

Best Time to Visit

February to May offers the best weather with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. June to August can be hot and humid but perfect for beach activities. September to December is the rainy season with potential typhoons, though hotel rates are lower.

Duration Recommendation

2-3 days to enjoy the beaches, visit the main attractions, and take day trips to Hoi An and Hue. Many visitors use Da Nang as a base for exploring central Vietnam.

Cost Tips

• Mid-range hotel: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND ($40-80) per night
• Beach resort: 2,000,000 - 5,000,000 VND ($80-200+) per night
• Meal at local restaurant: 75,000 - 200,000 VND ($3-8) per person
• Marble Mountains entrance: 25,000 VND ($1)
• Budget tip: Use local buses or Grab for affordable transportation between attractions

Where to Stay

• My Khe Beach: Beachfront area with resorts and hotels, popular with international tourists (1,500,000 - 5,000,000 VND/$60-200+ per night)
• Bach Dang Street: Riverside area with city views and proximity to restaurants (1,000,000 - 2,500,000 VND/$40-100 per night)
• Son Tra Peninsula: Luxury resorts with private beaches and nature surroundings (3,000,000+ VND/$120+ per night)
• Hai Chau District: City center with budget to mid-range accommodations (750,000 - 1,750,000 VND/$30-70 per night)

Safety & Health

• Be cautious of strong currents when swimming at the beach - swim in designated areas
• Use sun protection - the central sun can be intense
• Drink bottled water and be cautious with raw foods
• Be respectful when visiting religious sites like the Marble Mountains
• During rainy season, check weather forecasts for potential typhoons

Highlights / Things to Do

• Relax on My Khe Beach, named by Forbes as one of the world's most attractive beaches
• Visit the Marble Mountains and explore the caves, pagodas, and viewpoints
• Walk or cycle across the iconic Dragon Bridge and watch it breathe fire on weekend nights
• Take a day trip to the nearby ancient town of Hoi An (30 minutes away)
• Explore the Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, for nature and panoramic views