Discover Da Nang: A Budget Traveler’s Paradise in Vietnam You Can’t Miss

If you’re in search of a laid-back destination without breaking the bank, Da Nang, Vietnam, is an excellent choice. Here, you can savor a cup of coffee or bubble tea for less than 3 RMB, indulge in durian for just 7 RMB per pound, and enjoy a hearty bowl of beef noodle soup for 10 RMB. The city boasts the world-famous My Khe Beach, and you can find a cozy hostel with breakfast for only 30 RMB per night.

With its sun, sand, and crystal-clear waters, Da Nang is a dream come true for any vacationer.

Da Nang was the final stop on my Southeast Asian adventure, and I initially chose it simply because it offered the most affordable flights. Little did I know, I was about to discover a hidden gem. Over 15 days, I explored Da Nang and Hoi An, and my total expenses were around 1,000 RMB, all while enjoying the local cuisine and drinks without being overly frugal.

The cost of living in Da Nang is remarkably low, even more so compared to Hanoi, as mentioned earlier. Water activities are also a bargain, with most costing around 100 RMB per person, excluding surfing. Mornings can be spent basking in the sunrise and swimming at the beach, and on weekends, you can catch spectacular performances at the Dragon Bridge.

A motorcycle ride to Son Tra Peninsula offers breathtaking sea views and a visit to the serene Linh Ung Pagoda. For just 10 RMB, a bus ride will take you to the charming ancient town of Hoi An, where you can experience a unique coconut boat ride—a must-see that I’ll delve into separately.

Vietnamese pho is a culinary delight, and in Da Nang, you can enjoy a generous bowl with more beef than noodles for just over 10 RMB. Another local favorite is the Vietnamese baguette, stuffed with meat, for just 7 RMB. Refreshing drinks like bubble tea, coffee, and juice can be found for as little as 10,000 VND (less than 3 RMB), and don’t miss out on the local specialty, avocado ice.

I didn’t encounter any issues with customs officers asking for tips or unreasonable charges, as some have reported on Xiaohongshu. Apart from the disappointing crayfish at the Son Tra Night Market (which I’d advise avoiding due to overpriced items), the locals are incredibly kind. Even when faced with language barriers, they always go out of their way to help. Da Nang truly is a hidden gem, a small city that captures the heart of every visitor.