5 Days in Da Nang, Vietnam: The Ultimate DIY Solo Travel Itinerary for Filipinos

Out of Town Blog
5 Days in Da Nang, Vietnam: The Ultimate DIY Solo Travel Itinerary for Filipinos

If you’re planning your own Da Nang adventure, here’s a detailed 5-day itinerary for this vibrant Vietnamese city. Da Nang is quickly gaining popularity among travelers for its stunning natural landscapes, historical sites, family-friendly attractions, and affordable accommodations.

Begin by exploring the Marble Mountains—a cluster of marble and limestone hills featuring mystical caves, secret tunnels, Buddhist shrines, and breathtaking views of the coast and city. Next, head to Ba Na Hills, where a picturesque cable car ride takes you over lush forests to lavish gardens, a whimsical French Village, and the world-famous Golden Bridge, held high by massive stone hands above the clouds. In the evening, stroll through the ancient streets of Hoi An as lanterns illuminate old merchant houses and riverside walkways in a warm, enchanting glow. After your adventures, unwind on My Khe Beach, digging your toes into soft white sand and sampling fresh seafood at lively local restaurants along the waterfront.

Throughout your visit, you’ll appreciate insider travel tips to help you navigate the area, advice on enjoying Da Nang’s unique cuisine—from aromatic Mi Quang noodles to sizzling seafood dishes—and recommendations for comfortable, budget-friendly hotels to ensure a memorable and affordable stay.

Why Visit Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang is a coastal city on Vietnam’s central coast, renowned for its clean, white-sand beaches that stretch for miles, unique street food stalls serving delicious and affordable local dishes, and a lively blend of modern and traditional culture. The city’s strategic location makes it the ideal base for exploring famous UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the atmospheric lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the ancient imperial wonders of Hue, both easily reached by scenic drives.

For Filipino travelers seeking variety in their adventures, Da Nang offers a seamless mix of beach relaxation, food discoveries, and cultural excursions. Convenient flights from Manila or Cebu, with connections through Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, make this exciting Vietnamese city wonderfully accessible for a quick getaway or an extended exploration.

5-Day DIY Da Nang Itinerary for Solo Travelers

Day 1 – Arrival + My Khe Beach Sunset

Morning:

• Arrive at Da Nang International Airport (DAD)

• Check in at your hotel and freshen up

• Rent a scooter (VND120,000–VND150,000/day) — best for solo travelers who want flexibility

Afternoon:

• Explore My Khe Beach, one of Vietnam’s most famous beaches

  • Enjoy swimming or rent a sunbed (VND40,000–VND60,000)

  • Walk along the beachfront cafes and local markets

Evening:

• Head to Dragon Bridge — watch the fire and water show (weekends, 9 PM)

• Dinner at Bun Cha Ca 109 (local fish cake noodles, budget-friendly)

Travel Tip: Walk or take GrabBike for short distances — affordable and convenient for solo travelers.

Day 2 – Marble Mountains + Son Tra Peninsula

Morning:

• Visit Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) — a cluster of five limestone hills

  • Climb up Thuy Son for panoramic city views

  • Entrance fee: VND40,000

  • Don’t miss Am Phu Cave — stunning Buddha statues inside!

Afternoon:

• Drive to Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)

  • Visit Linh Ung Pagoda and the Lady Buddha statue

  • Enjoy the scenic coastal road views

Evening:

• Dinner at Mi Quang Ba Mua — try Mi Quang, Da Nang’s signature noodle dish

• Chill at Memory Lounge or Waterfront Restaurant & Bar for live music and riverside views

Background tip: Solo travelers love Da Nang’s calm nightlife — cozy bars, no tourist crowds.

Day 3 – Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge

Morning:

• Early ride to Ba Na Hills (1.5 hours from Da Nang)

  • Cable car fee: VND900,000–VND1,000,000 (round trip + park entrance)

  • Explore the Golden Bridge  — the iconic “hands bridge” in the sky

Afternoon:

• Stroll around the French Village — colorful European-style architecture

• Try the Ba Na Hills Buffet Lunch (VND250,000–VND300,000)

Evening:

• Return to Da Nang and unwind at My An Beach

• Dinner at Pho Viet Kieu (best pho in town)

Travel Tip: Bring a jacket! It’s cooler at Ba Na Hills, even in summer.

Day 4 – Day Trip to Hoi An Ancient Town

Morning:

• Take a 45-minute ride or shuttle from Da Nang to Hoi An

• Explore Hoi An Ancient Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky House

  • Rent a bicycle to explore the rice fields

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant — famous for Cao Lau noodles

• Visit a lantern-making workshop or Hoi An Market for souvenirs

Evening:

• As night falls, watch the lanterns light up along the Thu Bon River

• Optional: Join a river lantern cruise (VND100,000–VND150,000)

• Return to Da Nang (or stay overnight in Hoi An for a chill night)

Solo Tip: Hoi An is safe and very walkable — perfect for solo photoshoots!

Day 5 – Local Life + Departure

Morning:

• Visit Han Market or Con Market for local snacks and souvenirs

  • Try dried mango, coffee, and Vietnamese sweets

• Chill with Vietnamese coffee at 43 Factory Coffee Roaster

Afternoon:

• Last-minute massage or spa session at Herbal Spa (highly rated)

• Grab lunch before heading to the airport

Evening:

• Fly back home with your heart (and memory card) full of Da Nang sunsets and street food moments!

Where to Stay in Da Nang

Booking Tip: Stay near My Khe Beach or Han River for easy access to food, nightlife, and transport.

Best Places to Eat in Da Nang

Local Vietnamese:

• Bun Cha Ca 109 – for fish cake noodles

• Mi Quang Ba Mua – signature Da Nang noodles

Vegetarian-Friendly:

• Roots Plant-Based Café – healthy brunch options

International/Modern:

• Waterfront Da Nang Restaurant & Bar – riverside dining

• L’Italiano Da Nang – authentic pizza and pasta

Budget Tip: Local meals start from VND40,000–70,000 (P120–P200) — super affordable!

Da Nang Transportation Tips

• Airport to city: 10–15 mins by Grab (VND70,000)

• Best way to get around: Scooter rental or GrabBike

• Bus to Hoi An: VND25,000 (P75), but shared vans or Grab are faster

• Solo Traveler Tip: Always wear a helmet and keep a copy of your passport when renting bikes

Budget Estimate (per day for solo travelers)

Cultural & Travel Tips

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong — cash is preferred in small shops.

• Language: English is common in tourist areas, but learn simple greetings like “Xin chào” (hello).

• Best Time to Visit: February–May (dry season).

• Visa for Filipinos: Visa-free for up to 21 days!

• SIM card: Viettel or Mobifone (available at airport).

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Da Nang

Da Nang is that rare destination where tranquility meets adventure. It’s safe, scenic, and surprisingly affordable — perfect for solo travelers from the Philippines looking to explore Vietnam beyond the usual routes.

Have you been to Da Nang or planning your first Vietnam trip? Comment below your favorite spot or ask your travel questions — I’d love to help you plan!

Da Nang Travel Tour Packages You Should Try

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Read:

• Top 17 Best Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam
• 11 of the Best Hotels in Hoi An, Vietnam
• Top 24 Best DA NANG TOURIST SPOTS + Things to Do & Places to Visit
• Da Nang Travel Guide: Things To Do, Places to Stay, Tours, & More!
• Top Reasons to Visit Da Nang on your next Holiday

5 Days in Da Nang, Vietnam: The Ultimate DIY Solo Travel Itinerary for Filipinos
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog

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