Da Nang, Vietnam, is a vibrant coastal city that offers a range of family-friendly activities without putting a strain on your wallet. Whether your family loves exploring nature, learning about history, or indulging in local culture, Da Nang has something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to 23 affordable things to do with kids in Da Nang, complete with real prices, tips, and travel insights to make your family trip even more memorable.
1. Visit the Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains are a must-visit for families, offering a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. There are five marble and limestone hills, each representing an element—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Your kids will love exploring the hidden caves, ancient pagodas, and hiking up to the top for a panoramic view of Da Nang’s coast.
Family Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb can be steep in places, but it’s not too difficult for children. You can also take an elevator for a small fee if you have younger kids or prefer an easier ascent. Pack plenty of water, especially during the hot months.
- Cost: Free entry (Elevator: 15,000 VND, transportation varies, approx. 100,000 VND for a taxi).
2. See the Lady Buddha Statue
At the Linh Ung Pagoda, you’ll find the Lady Buddha statue towering 67 meters tall. This serene location offers breathtaking views of the sea and city, with lush gardens and ancient temples to explore. It’s a peaceful and educational spot where you can introduce your kids to Buddhist culture and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Family Tip: Bring a camera to capture stunning shots of the coastline and the impressive statue. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Cost: Free entry.
3. Explore the Cham Museum
The Cham Museum is a treasure trove of history, showcasing artifacts from the Champa Kingdom, an ancient civilization that once thrived in central Vietnam. Kids will be fascinated by the intricate stone sculptures, carvings, and relics that date back as far as the 7th century.
Family Tip: Visit earlier in the day to avoid the afternoon heat, as parts of the museum are outdoors. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits and ask for a kid-friendly guide if available—they often have storyboards to explain the history in a fun way for children.
- Cost: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.70) for adults, 20,000 VND (approx. $0.85) for children.
4. Take a Free Walking Tour
Da Nang’s free walking tours offer a fantastic way to get to know the city, its history, and its top attractions, including the famous Dragon Bridge, Han River, and APEC Park. Evening tours are particularly magical, with the city’s bridges illuminated in vibrant colors, adding a touch of wonder for children.
Family Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water. While the tour itself is free, tipping the guide is a nice gesture. Don’t forget to bring snacks for younger kids who may need a break during the walk.
- Cost: Free (tips appreciated).
5. Visit Han Market
Han Market is one of Da Nang’s oldest and most popular local markets, offering everything from souvenirs and local crafts to delicious street food. Kids will love exploring the colorful stalls and trying new snacks like tropical fruits or traditional Vietnamese sweets.
Family Tip: Bargaining is expected, so it’s a great place to teach older kids about haggling! Be mindful of the crowd, as the market can get busy, and keep an eye on little ones. Try to visit early in the morning to avoid the midday rush and heat.
- Cost: Free to enter; food and souvenirs vary in price.
6. Relax at My Khe Beach
My Khe Beach is known for its soft, powdery sand and gentle waves, making it a perfect spot for families with kids. You can spend the day swimming, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing under the shade of a rented umbrella.
Family Tip: Arrive early to claim a good spot on the beach, as it can get busy in the afternoon. Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a small fee to make your day more comfortable.
- Cost: Free entry; beach chair rentals available for around 50,000 VND (approx. $2.10).
7. Watch the Dragon Bridge Breathe Fire
The Dragon Bridge is one of Da Nang’s most iconic landmarks, and every weekend, it breathes fire and water at 9:00 PM! This spectacle will amaze your kids, and the bridge itself makes for a stunning backdrop for family photos.
Family Tip: Arrive early to get a good viewing spot, as it can get crowded on weekends. If your hotel is near the river, you can watch from your room or grab a seat at a nearby café for a more relaxed experience.
- Cost: Free.
10. Take a Day Trip to Ba Na Hills
Ba Na Hills is one of Vietnam’s top attractions, offering a day full of adventure for families. Start your journey by riding the world’s longest non-stop cable car up the mountains, where you’ll find a French-style village, the famous Golden Bridge, and Fantasy Park, a large indoor theme park with rides, games, and activities for all ages.
Family Tip: This is a full-day trip, so plan ahead with plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and water. The cable car ride itself is an experience, so make sure to capture the stunning views along the way. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the village.
- Cost: 750,000 VND (approx. $32) for adults, 600,000 VND (approx. $26) for children.
11. Go on a Motorbike Tour
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a motorbike or join a guided tour to explore Da Nang’s scenic countryside. Take a ride along the famous Hai Van Pass, stop at Lang Co Beach, or visit the ancient town of Hoi An nearby. This is a fun way to see more of the area at your own pace.
Family Tip: If you’re not comfortable driving a motorbike with kids, opt for a guided tour where the whole family can ride safely together. Make sure everyone has helmets, and plan stops for snacks and breaks.
- Cost: Motorbike rentals start at 120,000 VND (approx. $5.10) per day.
12. Visit Da Nang Cathedral
Known for its striking pink façade, the Da Nang Cathedral, also referred to as the “Rooster Church” due to its weathercock symbol, is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. It’s a quick and easy stop for families exploring the city.
Family Tip: This is a great place for a family photo. Combine this visit with a stop at Han Market nearby for a convenient and cultural outing in the city center.
- Cost: Free entry.
13. Explore Phap Lam Pagoda
Phap Lam Pagoda is a lesser-known gem, featuring beautiful Buddhist statues, murals, and peaceful gardens. It’s a quiet place to teach kids about the spiritual and historical significance of Buddhist culture in Vietnam.
Family Tip: The temple is less crowded, making it an ideal stop if your kids need a break from the busier tourist spots. Take your time to explore and soak in the calm atmosphere.
- Cost: Free entry.
14. Take a Boat Trip on the Han River
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Han River, where you can take in the views of Da Nang’s skyline, bridges, and bustling waterfront. The nighttime cruises are especially popular, as the bridges light up with colorful LED displays.
Family Tip: Some boat tours offer dinner and entertainment, which can be a fun way to spend the evening with kids. Bring a light jacket for the evening breeze on the water.
- Cost: Boat trips start at around 200,000 VND (approx. $8.50) per person.
15. Visit Da Nang Museum
Da Nang Museum is a fun and educational stop that showcases the city’s history, culture, and natural environment. Interactive exhibits make it a kid-friendly experience, and it’s a great way to escape the heat for a few hours.
Family Tip: Pair this visit with a walk along the river or a stop at a nearby park. The museum is a quick visit, but it offers interesting insights into Da Nang’s history that can spark curiosity in kids.
- Cost: 20,000 VND
16. Take Surf Lessons
My Khe beach area has a lot of great waves for beginners and intermediates. The surf school in town is very affordable and the instructors speak English.
Family Tip: Ask to have the lessons in front of a part of the beach with sun beds to make it an all day thing and not be exposed to the harsh sun rays and allow for down time.
- Cost: Varies, small group classes are less than 1-1
17. Attend the Da Nang Fireworks Festival
If your visit falls in March, don’t miss the Da Nang Fireworks Festival, one of the city’s most vibrant and exciting events. Enjoy impressive fireworks displays, live music, food stalls, and cultural performances.
Family Tip: Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot. The fireworks can be loud, so consider bringing earplugs for younger kids. This is a festive and exciting way to experience Da Nang’s lively culture!
- Cost: Free to watch.
18. Visit Le Duan Night Market
Le Duan Night Market is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. With endless food stalls, craft vendors, and street performers, it’s a fun evening outing for families who want to experience Da Nang’s local culture.
Family Tip: Set a budget for souvenirs and food before entering, as the tempting stalls can add up quickly. Try some local street food, like banh mi or pho, and watch your kids’ eyes light up as they try new flavors.
- Cost: Free to enter; food prices vary.
19. Take a Cooking Class
A cooking class is a great way to immerse your family in Vietnamese culture by learning how to make traditional dishes. Most family-friendly classes include a visit to a local market where you’ll shop for ingredients before preparing dishes like spring rolls, banh mi, and pho.
Family Tip: Opt for a private class if possible, as it allows the chef to tailor the experience to your family’s needs. Cooking is hands-on and fun, making this a memorable way to introduce your kids to local flavors and food traditions.
- Cost: Classes start at around 500,000 VND (approx. $21.50) per person.
20. Relax at APEC Park
APEC Park is a green oasis perfect for families to unwind. Located along the Han River, it’s equipped with playgrounds, open spaces, and beautiful gardens. This is a great spot to let your kids run around while you relax and enjoy the scenery.
Family Tip: Bring a picnic and spend a couple of hours relaxing in the park. There’s plenty of shade, and the river views make it a calming retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Cost: Free entry.
21. Visit the Da Nang Night Market
Another fantastic night market experience, the Da Nang Night Market is a bustling hub of activity. Your family can sample local delicacies, browse souvenirs, and watch live performances. It’s lively, colorful, and a perfect spot for adventurous eaters.
Family Tip: Let your kids try a few different snacks and vote on their favorite! Be sure to visit early to avoid the biggest crowds, and keep an eye on your belongings, as night markets can get busy.
- Cost: Free entry; food and souvenirs vary in price.
22. Enjoy Non Nuoc Beach
Non Nuoc Beach is a bit quieter than the more popular My Khe Beach, making it ideal for families looking for a relaxing day by the sea. The calm waters are great for young swimmers, and the beautiful scenery offers the perfect backdrop for a peaceful beach day.
Family Tip: Bring beach toys and snacks for a fun, low-cost day at the beach. Non Nuoc is less crowded, so you’ll have plenty of space for the kids to run and play.
- Cost: Free entry; beach chairs available for around 50,000 VND (approx. $2.10).
23. Have Fun at Sun World Asia Park
Sun World Asia Park is an amusement park with rides and attractions suitable for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to kid-friendly rides, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to end your trip with a fun-filled day of excitement.
Family Tip: Plan to spend an entire day at the park. There are restaurants and food stands available, but it can be expensive, so consider bringing snacks or packing a light lunch for the family.
- Cost: Varies, affordable as you can pick and choose what you want to ride/pay for.
Conclusion
Da Nang is a fantastic destination for families looking for affordable and fun activities. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and numerous attractions, you and your kids are sure to create lasting memories without overspending. From cultural exploration to beachside relaxation, Da Nang has something for every kind of traveler. Enjoy your budget-friendly adventure in this beautiful city!
