From Hanoi to Da Nang: The Ultimate Travel Guide

How to Travel from Hanoi to Da Nang

There are several ways to travel from Hanoi to Da Nang, each offering unique experiences depending on your budget, time, and preferences.

By Plane

Flying is the quickest option, with direct flights taking just over an hour. Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet offer multiple daily flights between Hanoi and Da Nang, making it convenient to fit into any schedule. Da Nang International Airport is just a short drive from the city center, making it easy to start exploring as soon as you land.

By Train

Vietnam’s Reunification Express train offers a scenic route from Hanoi to Da Nang. The train journey takes around 16 hours, and you can choose between soft seats, hard sleeper, or soft sleeper cabins. It’s a slower pace, but you’ll be treated to beautiful views of coastal stretches, countryside, and mountains. For the best experience, opt for an overnight sleeper.

By Bus

Taking a bus from Hanoi to Da Nang is an affordable option, with various sleeper buses available. The journey typically takes 15–18 hours, depending on traffic. While it's not the most comfortable, it can be a good budget choice for backpackers.

By Car

For the most flexibility, renting a car or hiring a private driver offers a more personalized experience. The journey by road takes around 14–16 hours, depending on stops. Along the way, you can visit several smaller towns and attractions, including the famous Hai Van Pass.

Top Attractions in Hanoi

Before heading to Da Nang, be sure to explore some of Hanoi’s top attractions.

• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: A peaceful spot in the city center with scenic views and cultural significance.
• Old Quarter: Wander through the bustling streets, filled with traditional shops, cafés, and street food vendors.

• Temple of Literature: A historical site and one of the oldest universities in Southeast Asia.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay respects to the country’s founding leader at this important landmark.

Highlights of Da Nang

Once you arrive in Da Nang, you’ll find a vibrant coastal city with a mix of modern development and natural beauty.

• My Khe Beach: Known for its long stretch of white sand, this beach is a must-visit for sunbathing and swimming.
• Marble Mountains: A cluster of limestone and marble hills with caves, temples, and panoramic views.

• Dragon Bridge: Da Nang’s famous bridge lights up at night, and the dragon-shaped structure even breathes fire on weekends.
• Ba Na Hills: Home to the Golden Bridge (the famous "hands bridge") and a French-inspired village, Ba Na Hills offers a unique mountaintop experience.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Da Nang’s weather is best from February to May, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Hanoi is ideal in autumn (September to November) or spring (March to April) when the weather is mild.
• Packing Essentials: Light clothing for Da Nang’s beaches, and an umbrella or raincoat for Hanoi, as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Food to Try: In Hanoi, try pho (noodle soup) and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles). In Da Nang, sample mi Quang (a local noodle dish) and seafood from My Khe Beach.

Enhancing Your Journey

Make your trip even more memorable by adding side trips to popular nearby destinations. For example, take a day trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi for an unforgettable cruise experience among limestone karsts. Once in Da Nang, consider visiting Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lantern-lit streets and riverside charm.

Whether you choose to fly, take the scenic train, or embark on a road trip, your journey from Hanoi to Da Nang will be filled with unforgettable experiences. From ancient temples and bustling city streets to serene beaches and coastal views, this trip captures the diversity of Vietnam’s landscapes and culture.

While in Hanoi, why not join our street food tour to dive deep into local flavors before heading south? And don’t forget to book a Halong Bay cruise to see Vietnam’s natural beauty up close!