Da Nang is fast becoming one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia for Muslim travelers. Located centrally between the capital Hanoi and the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang offers a perfect blend of modern luxury, breathtaking nature, and deep heritage—all without the chaos of a megacity.

For the Muslim traveler, Da Nang in 2025 is more welcoming than ever. With a growing number of Halal-certified restaurants, prayer-friendly facilities, and a culture that respects family values, it is an ideal destination for visitors from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Middle East, and beyond. Whether you are looking to walk above the clouds on the Golden Bridge, shop for silk in the ancient streets of Hoi An, or simply relax on pristine beaches, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Here are the 12 best things to do in Da Nang and Central Vietnam, curated specifically for a Halal-friendly experience.

1. Walk the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills

No trip to Central Vietnam is complete without visiting Sun World Ba Na Hills. Located 1,487 meters above sea level on Nui Chua Mountain, this resort complex is often referred to as “fairyland” or “mini Europe.”

The journey begins with a spectacular ride on the world’s longest single-wire cable car system. As you ascend from the tropical jungle at the bottom, you will pass through the clouds and emerge into a cool, misty mountaintop. The temperature here is always 10-15°C cooler than the city, often cycling through “four seasons in one day”—spring in the morning, summer at noon, autumn in the evening, and winter at night.

The Golden Bridge (Cau Vang) The crown jewel of Ba Na Hills is the Golden Bridge. Suspended nearly 1,400 meters above sea level, the bridge looks like a shimmering silk strip held up by two giant, moss-covered stone hands of a mountain deity. Since its opening, it has become one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Walking on this bridge feels like walking through the clouds.

• Photo Tip: The bridge gets incredibly crowded. For the best photos without thousands of other tourists, try to catch the very first cable car at 7:30 AM or visit in the late afternoon around 4:30 PM when the tour groups have left.

The French Village At the summit, you will find a full-scale replica of a medieval French village. Complete with cobblestone streets, castles, town squares, and European-style fountains, it is incredibly picturesque. It is a wonderful place for families to stroll, enjoy the cool air, and take beautiful architectural photos.

Fantasy Park If you are traveling with children, head underground to the Fantasy Park. It is a massive indoor amusement park inspired by the novels of Jules Verne. It features free games, 4D and 5D cinemas, and indoor drop towers. It is a great way to keep the kids entertained if it starts to rain outside.

• Muslim Traveler Note: While there are many restaurants in Ba Na Hills, most serve non-Halal buffet options. However, the Arapang Buffet restaurant is huge and offers a wide selection of vegetarian dishes, seafood, and fruits. We recommend sticking to the seafood/vegetarian sections or packing a light lunch if you are strictly Halal. There are plenty of quiet corners in the gardens if you need to perform prayers.

2. Explore the Ancient Town of Hoi An

Just a 40-minute drive south of Da Nang lies Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is arguably the most charming town in Vietnam. Unlike the modern skyscrapers of Da Nang, Hoi An has been preserved remarkably well, looking much like it did 200 years ago when it was a major trading port.

The Atmosphere Hoi An is famous for its yellow-walled ancient merchant houses, tile-roofed wooden bridges, and narrow streets free of motorbikes. During the day, it is a peaceful place to walk and admire the fusion of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and French architecture.

The Lantern Festival The real magic happens after sunset. As darkness falls, the town turns off its electric streetlights and is illuminated by thousands of colorful silk lanterns. The Hoai River, which runs through the town, fills with small wooden boats carrying visitors.

• Activity: You can rent a small wooden boat for a 20-minute ride on the river. You can also purchase a small paper lantern and release it onto the water—a local tradition meant to bring good luck and peace.

The Tailoring Capital Hoi An is famous worldwide as the place to get custom clothes. There are hundreds of tailor shops here that can copy any design—from a high-end suit to a modest Abaya or Baju Kurung—in just 24 hours. You simply choose your fabric, get measured, and come back the next day for a perfect fit.

• Halal Food in Hoi An: While Hoi An is famous for street food like Cao Lau (which often contains pork), Muslim travelers should be careful. We recommend dining at Baba’s Kitchen or Ganesh, which offer Halal-friendly Indian cuisine, or sticking to strict seafood restaurants.

3. Experience the Basket Boat Dance at Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Located just a few kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town is the Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Rung Dua). Historically, this area was a revolutionary base during the war, but today it is an exciting eco-tourism destination that looks remarkably like the Mekong Delta.

The Basket Boat (Thung Chai) The highlight of this area is the unique Vietnamese “Basket Boat.” These round, bamboo boats were invented by local fishermen to avoid taxes on “boats” during the French colonial era. Today, they are used to take tourists through the dense water coconut palm canals.

The Experience When you arrive, you will board a basket boat with a local rower. They will paddle you through the quiet, green waterways where you can see locals catching purple crabs.

• The “Gangnam Style” Performance: The peaceful ride suddenly turns into a party when you reach the central open water. The rowers perform the famous “Basket Boat Dance,” spinning their round boats at incredible speeds to loud music. It is a hilarious and energetic performance. You can even try sitting in the spinning boat if you are brave enough!

4. Take the “Heritage Train” over Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass (“Ocean Cloud Pass”) is the natural border between Da Nang and Hue. Rising 500 meters above sea level, it was named one of the “Top 10 Coastal Roads in the World” by Top Gear. The view from the top is breathtaking, with the endless blue ocean on one side and lush green jungle cliffs on the other.

The “Heritage Train” (Central Heritage Connection) For families or those who prefer a relaxing journey, the newly launched “Heritage Train” (Tau Hoa Di San) is the best way to see the pass. This specialized tourist train runs daily between Da Nang and Hue.

• Why take it: Unlike normal trains, this one moves slowly (about 15km/h) through the most scenic sections of the Hai Van Pass. The carriages are decorated in a vintage Indochine style, and large panoramic windows allow you to take stunning photos of Lang Co Bay below.
• Onboard Culture: The train often features live traditional music performances and serves local snacks. It is a 3-hour journey of pure scenic beauty.

Driving the Pass Alternatively, you can rent a private car to drive over the pass. This allows you to stop at the summit to take photos of the old brick fortifications and see the “Lonely Pine Tree.” Driving allows you to stop whenever you want, which is great for photographers.

5. River Safari at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

Located south of Hoi An, VinWonders Nam Hoi An is a massive entertainment complex that offers a completely different experience from the one in Phu Quoc. This park is designed to celebrate Vietnamese heritage and nature.

The River Safari This is the first and only riverside semi-wildlife park in Vietnam. Instead of walking or taking a bus, you board a boat that cruises down a man-made river. From the safety of the boat, you can see Bengal tigers, lions, bears, elephants, and zebras roaming on the banks. It is a fantastic, relaxing way to see animals, especially for young children or elderly parents who cannot walk long distances.

Folklore Island This section of the park is an architectural masterpiece. It features replicas of traditional houses from the North, Central, and South of Vietnam. You can watch artisans weaving silk, making pottery, and painting traditional masks.

• Water Park: The complex also includes a full-scale water park with slides and lazy rivers, perfect for cooling off in the Central Vietnam heat.

6. Snorkeling at Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)

If you want to escape the city and immerse yourself in pristine nature, a day trip to the Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) is essential. Recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, this archipelago of 8 islands is famous for its untouched coral reefs and biodiversity.

The Speedboat Adventure The tour usually starts with a thrilling 20-minute speedboat ride from the mainland pier to the islands, cutting through the waves at high speed.

Snorkeling & Swimming The water here is incredibly clear. Most tours will stop at distinct coral sites where you can jump in for snorkeling. You don’t need to be a professional swimmer; life jackets and masks are provided. You can see colorful coral formations and schools of tropical fish right near the surface.

Bai Chong Beach After snorkeling, the boats usually dock at Bai Chong or Bai Ong beach. These beaches feature soft white sand and swaying coconut trees. You can relax on a hammock, drink fresh coconut water, and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.

• Eco-Note: The Cham Islands strictly ban plastic bags. Please do not bring any plastic bags onto the island to help preserve this beautiful environment.

7. Watch the Dragon Bridge Fire Show

Back in the city center, the Dragon Bridge is the modern symbol of Da Nang. Spanning the Han River, this award-winning bridge is designed in the shape of a golden dragon from the Ly Dynasty, heading toward the East Sea.

The Fire & Water Show The bridge is not just a statue; it is a performance artist. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night at 9:00 PM, traffic is stopped, and the dragon comes alive.

1. Fire: First, the dragon breathes giant balls of real fire into the night sky. You can feel the heat from the street below!
2. Water: Afterward, it sprays powerful jets of water, soaking the crowd (a fun surprise if you are standing too close).

Best Viewing Spots

• On the Bridge: For the most immersive experience, stand on the bridge itself (near the head).
• Below the Bridge: The riverside promenade offers a great side view without the crowd density.
• River Cruise: For a VIP experience, book a Han River Cruise boat. You can watch the fire show from the water while enjoying fresh fruit and juice.

8. Relax at My Khe Beach

Forbes Magazine once voted My Khe Beach as one of the “6 Most Beautiful Beaches on the Planet,” and it is easy to see why. Stretching over 9 kilometers, the beach features soft, powdery white sand, gentle waves, and warm blue water year-round.

Safe & Clean Unlike many other beaches in Asia, My Khe is incredibly clean and safe. The city employs a large team of lifeguards who are on duty from sunrise to sunset. The gradient of the sea floor is gentle, making it safe for children and non-swimmers to play in the shallows.

Sunrise Culture To experience local life, wake up early and visit the beach at 5:30 AM. You will see thousands of locals exercising, swimming, and playing football as the sun rises over the ocean. It is a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that is unique to Da Nang.

9. Spot Wildlife on Son Tra Peninsula

Just 10km from the city center, the Son Tra Peninsula (also known as Monkey Mountain) stands as a giant green lung protecting the city from storms. It is a nature reserve spanning over 4,000 hectares of primeval forest.

The Scenic Drive Driving along the coastal road of Son Tra is an experience in itself. You will have the steep jungle on one side and the vast ocean on the other. There are several lookout points where you can stop and get a panoramic view of the entire Da Nang city skyline and the long curve of My Khe Beach.

The Queen of Primates Son Tra is the home of the Red-shanked Douc Langur, a rare primate species often called the “Queen of Primates” because of its colorful 5-color fur. If you drive quietly and look up at the trees, you can often spot families of these langurs jumping between branches. They are shy and gentle creatures, unlike the aggressive macaques found in other tourist sites.

• Important: Please do not feed the monkeys. Human food is bad for their health and makes them dependent on tourists.

10. Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

For travelers who want a peaceful break from the city, Tra Que Vegetable Village near Hoi An is a hidden gem. This small village has been growing herbs and vegetables for over 300 years using organic methods.

The Organic Method What makes Tra Que special is that the farmers do not use chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Instead, they use a special type of algae found in the nearby lagoon to nourish the soil. This gives the herbs here—like mint, basil, and coriander—an incredibly strong and distinct aroma.

Be a Farmer for a Day Visitors can change into traditional farming clothes and learn how to till the soil, plant seeds, and water the vegetables using the traditional “double watering can” technique. It is a fun, hands-on activity that gives you a deep appreciation for the hard work of Vietnamese farmers. Afterward, many tours include a relaxing herbal foot massage using the medicinal plants grown right in the garden.

11. Shop at Han Market & Con Market

Shopping is a major part of any trip, and Da Nang’s markets offer a lively, authentic experience.

Han Market (Cho Han) Located right near the Han River bridge, this is the most tourist-friendly market. It is a two-story building packed with goods.

• Ground Floor: This is where you find food souvenirs. Look for Cashew Nuts, Dried Mango, Coffee, and dried seafood. The sellers here are used to tourists and will vacuum-pack everything for you so it is safe for flight luggage.
• Second Floor: This is for fashion. You can find “Ao Dai” (traditional Vietnamese dress), fabrics, and rattan bags.

Con Market (Cho Con) Located opposite the Big C supermarket, Con Market is the “kitchen of Da Nang.” It is where the locals shop. It is famous for its wholesale prices and massive street food court. While the food court might be tricky for strict Halal diners, the dry goods section offers excellent prices on local snacks and gifts.

12. Enjoy Halal Dining in Da Nang

A few years ago, finding Halal food in Da Nang was a challenge. Today, thanks to the influx of Muslim travelers, the city boasts several high-quality Halal-certified restaurants. You do not need to worry about your dietary requirements here.

Top Halal Restaurants:

1. Mumtaz Indian Restaurant: Located near the Han Market, this is a pioneer in Halal dining in Da Nang. They serve a mix of North and South Indian cuisine. Their Chicken Tandoori and Mutton Rogan Josh are local favorites.
2. Nan n Kabab: This highly-rated restaurant specializes in Middle Eastern and Pakistani cuisine. It is famous for its charcoal-grilled kebabs, fresh hummus, and fluffy naan bread. They have a designated prayer space for customers.
3. Family Indian Restaurant: Popular with tourists from Malaysia and Indonesia, this spot offers a homely atmosphere and a wide menu of Halal curries, biryanis, and vegetable dishes.

Simpur Halal Kitchen: Known for authentic Indonesian and Malaysian flavors. If you are missing Nasi Goreng, Beef Rendang, or Sambal, this is the place to go.

📍 Quick Directory: Halal Restaurants in Da Nang

Click the links below to open the location directly in Google Maps:

1. Lazeez Indian Halal Restaurant (Authentic Indian)
2. Halal Food Karim (Vietnamese & Malaysian – Has Prayer Room)
3. Maxim Halal Restaurant (Middle Eastern & Western)
4. Sultan Istanbul Kebab (Turkish Kebab & BBQ)
5. Kampung Melayu (Malaysian & Indonesian)
6. Indrapura (Halal Vietnamese & Malay)
7. Kababish Halal (Pakistani & Indian)

Seafood Advice Da Nang is famous for its fresh seafood. If you choose to dine at a local seafood restaurant (which serves alcohol and is not Halal-certified), you can still enjoy a meal by adhering to “Muslim-friendly” choices:

• Order “Nuong Moi” (Grilled Plain) or “Hap” (Steamed).
• Avoid dishes with “Sot Me” (Tamarind sauce) or “Sot Chua Ngot” (Sweet and sour) as these pre-made sauces might sometimes contain non-halal additives. Stick to fresh soy sauce and chili.

Practical Guide for Muslim Travelers in Da Nang

🌦️ Best Time to Visit

Da Nang has a tropical monsoon climate.

• Best Time (Jan – Aug): This is the dry season. The weather is sunny and perfect for beaches and Ba Na Hills.
  • Jan-March: Cool and pleasant (20-25°C). Great for sightseeing.
  • April-Aug: Warm and sunny (28-35°C). Perfect for swimming.

Rainy Season (Sept – Dec): Expect frequent rainfall. However, hotel prices are much lower, and the city is less crowded. If you visit during this time, pack a raincoat and plan for indoor activities like museums or shopping.

🚗 How to Get Around

• Grab App: The easiest way to move around is using the Grab app (similar to Uber). It is safe, cheap, and the price is fixed on the screen, so you don’t need to haggle.
• Private Car Rental: For families visiting Ba Na Hills or Hoi An, renting a private car with a driver for the day is highly recommended. It costs around $30-40 USD for a full day and offers maximum comfort and privacy.
• Taxi: Traditional taxis (Vinasun in white, Mai Linh in green) are reliable and run by the meter.

✈️ Average Travel Package Prices

Here are the average prices for Halal-friendly travel packages (Flight + Hotel + Tour) from key Muslim-majority countries to Da Nang. These estimates help you plan your budget.

• Malaysia – Da Nang package: From $485
• Indonesia – Da Nang package: From $690
• United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Da Nang package: From $1,250
• Saudi Arabia (KSA) – Da Nang package: From $1,420
• Qatar – Da Nang package: From $1,380
• Kuwait – Da Nang package: From $1,310
• Turkey – Da Nang package: From $1,150

Note: Prices vary depending on the season and airline choice.