Danang is famously known for its bridges that connect the city center to the beaches on the east coast. Many of the bridges pass over the Han River, some with a history of more than 50 years. Also located along the river is the city market, Cho Han, and a district full of restaurants, cafes and bars.
To start the walking tour, depart from the Samdi hotel in Danang and head to the Dragon Bridge. To reach the dragon bridge from Samdi hotel in Da Nang, we advise to take a taxi.
Danang Dragon Bridge
Located on Nguyen Van Linh just 2 km east of Samdi five star hotel in Danang sits the city’s most famous icon, the Dragon Bridge of Danang. This modern marvel spans the Han River with an impressive 666 meters (2,185 ft), the longest steel bridge in Vietnam. The bridge was completed in 2013 and features a unique golden design that is illuminated at night with a kaleidoscope of colors. On Sunday evenings, the dragon breaths fire and water, a must-see event for travelers and a fantastic opportunity for photographers. For schedule details, please contact the concierge team at Samdi Hotel in Da Nang.
Walking north of the Dragon Bridge along Bach Dang is our next destination Cho Han, the city market.
Cho Han Market Da Nang
119 Trần Phú, Hải Châu 1, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
The city’s central market, Han Market, is a bustling destination full of vendors, local shoppers and tourists. The block-sized market features two floors and countless local and imported products. Cho Han is the best market to visit for an authentic Vietnamese experience. Discover beautiful fabrics for your tailored suit, sample preserved fruits, and dine on traditional Vietnamese dishes in the central food court. Venture upstairs to see a variety of wares, t-shirts, and a view overlooking the bottom floor. The market also makes for a great spot to pick up classic souvenirs like lacquerware, handicrafts, and fashion accessories.
Sacred Heart Cathedral Danang
156 Đường Trần Phú, Hải Châu 1, Q. Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
Behind Cho Han lies Tran Phu Street, walk half a block south on Tran Phu and you will see the magnificent Sacred Heart Cathedral in Danang. This classic church features a pink façade and spacious courtyard. Built in 1923, Sacred Heart Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Danang and among the most popular. The church offers Roman Catholic services in Vietnamese; however, the church is welcoming to all visitors and a popular tourist destination.
Danang Visitor Center
108 Bạch Đằng, Hải Châu 1, Q. Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
Heading back to Bach Dang and continuing north along the street, you’ll want to make a stop over at the Danang Tourist Center. The official tourist center offers information on the most popular sites and destinations in the region. They can also arrange tours and transportation that you may need. In addition, the friendly staff can help to answer questions you may have about the city.
Han River Bridge
Located further north on Bach Dang Street lies the Han River Bridge. This engineering feat was completed in 2000 and features a unique single pillar design which allows for the bridge to swing open at night, allowing large vessels to traverse further up the Han River. The bridge is a cable-stayed bridge which spans 201 meters (651 ft) across the Han River and is centrally located, allowing traffic to quickly access the city center and the coastal district of Danang. At night the bridge presents a lighting display which changes multiple colors.
Danang City Committee
42 Bạch Đằng, Hải Châu 1, Q. Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
Continuing along the Han River on Bach Dang Street, you will come across quite possibly the most beautiful colonial building in Danang, the Danang City Committee Building. Although access is limited to the public, this is a must see building due to its classic façade and architectural design. Once one of the most important buildings in the city for business and government work, many of the offices have now been relocated to the new Danang City Hall.
Danang City Hall
24 Đường Trần Phú, Hải Châu 1, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
A towering cylindrical building, the Danang City Hall is one of the first skyscrapers to be built in Danang. Featuring a unique design and illuminated facade, the building represents the continuing development of Danang. With offices for many of the government agencies, this is one of the key buildings in the city for getting work done. In the evening, the parks and fountains around the city hall become a hot spot for locals to relax and congregate.
Danang Souvenir Café
34 Bạch Đằng
Our last stop on the walking tour is the Danang Souvenir Café on Bach Dang Street. This delightful café features not only traditional Vietnamese coffee but also a selection of souvenirs from Danang and the region. Pick up some t-shirts, stuffed animals, post cards and grab a cup of Vietnamese coffee as you relax on the sidewalk terrace while enjoying the cool evening atmosphere along Bach Dang Street.
Further Exploration Required
Bach Dang and Tran Phu Streets are among the most popular in Danang due to their proximity to the river and the abundance of cafes, restaurants, bars and hotels in Da Nang. Tourists should not miss this bustling area and take a stroll along the many side streets that offer quaint cafes and hidden fares. The best way to reach Bach Dang and Tran Phu is to head east on Nguyen Van Linh from Samdi hotel near the Danang airport until you reach the Dragon Bridge. For more detailed directions or transportation assistance, please feel free to contact our concierge team.
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