4-Day Itinerary for Da Nang and Hoi An: Beaches, Resorts & Lantern Nights

If you’re looking for an easy yet fulfilling Vietnam itinerary for a short trip, try this simple but wonderful 4-day plan for Da Nang and Hoi An in Central Vietnam. Enjoy the best of both cities: Da Nang has beaches, delicious seafood, city amenities and luxury resorts. In Hoi An you can explore the lantern-lit old town, take river cruises, enjoy wellness activities at your resort and enjoy the slower-paced countryside atmosphere.

I’ve been fortunate to visit Vietnam numerous times over the years. I’ve stayed in beach resorts in Da Nang, explored bustling Ho Chi Minh City, relaxed in Mui Ne and Dalat. Each trip to Vietnam reminds me that the country truly is underrated and misunderstood. Yes, Vietnam can be “budget” or “cheap”, depending on where you go. But it’s also scenic, has lots of tasty flavour, and can be surprisingly comfortable for travelling with kids when planned correctly.

For our recent 4 day itinerary in Da Nang and Hoi An, we kept things relaxing so the whole family could enjoy good food, relatively stress-free travel, beach fun and activities the kids will love. We mixed in some luxury to discover what Dalat has to offer. Here’s what our route looked like: one night in Da Nang city, one night at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, and one night staying at Namia River Retreat in Hoi An.

For travellers from Singapore or other nearby Asian countries, this itinerary is great because Da Nang Airport is super close to Da Nang city, only about 15-20 minutes from the city centre and beach area.

Overview: 4-Day Itinerary for Da Nang and Hoi An

• Day 1: Arrival in Da Nang, Dinner, Night walk in Dragon Bridge
• Day 2: Da Nang Cathedral, My Khe Beach, Lunch of Vietnamese seafood, Son Tra Peninsula and take in InterContinental Danang
• Day 3: Citron breakfast and transfer to Hoi An, Namia River Retreat, Try a basket boat, Sunset boat ride to Hoi An Ancient Town
• Day 4: Relaxing wellness morning with Spa treatment, Bike ride through the country side and last local meal before you depart.

Please note that this 4 day Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary doesn’t try to jam-pack your vacation with attractions. We’ve carefully selected comfortable accommodations, beautiful spots to visit, delicious food and created memorable family friendly experiences for you.

Before You Go: Vietnam Visa, Transport and Travel Tips

Vietnam’s eVisa was probably the easiest option for most travellers. It’s around 25 USD per person for single entry visa, and typically takes a few working days to process. Immigration in Da Nang was painless for us, though customs still took about 20 minutes.

Getting around was super easy. We used Grab for everything and could almost always get a car within minutes. The prices were also much cheaper than Singapore which made it easy to get between our hotels, beaches, and restaurants.

Probably one of Da Nang’s greatest benefits is proximity. The airport is super close to town, My Khe Beach is close to the city, and Hoi An is only about an hour away by car. Make sure to plan your Da Nang and Hoi An combo trip for at least 4 days.

Day 1: Arrive in Da Nang and Explore the City at Night

Our flight was delayed for nearly an hour so we arrived at Da Nang when it was dark. Luckily the airport to hotel transfer took less than 20 minutes. That’s one of the reasons why I love bringing visitors to Da Nang for a short holiday. You do not spend half a day travelling from airport to your hotel.

We wanted to dine at Pizza 4P’s initially since it seems to be a highly-rated place in Vietnam but the waiting time was about an hour. So we settled for dinner at a Japanese restaurant nearby instead. The food was quite alright, and the prices were much cheaper than Singapore.

We still did not want to skip dinner at Pizza 4P’s so we got takeaway after our meal. Their thin-crust pizza was actually quite yummy and they gave us lots for the price that we paid.

We walked towards Dragon Bridge after dinner. It took about 10mins walk from our hotel at Cozy Danang Boutique Hotel. Night time in Da Nang is also quite enjoyable as it gets cooler. However, the pavements aren’t as nice and well-kept compared to Singapore. There are motorbikes galore! Plus you do not see traffic lights everywhere like in Singapore, so if you are travelling with young children, take heed when walking along the streets.

Dragon Bridge is one of the iconic spots in Da Nang that you will easily recognise. During certain nights, you can catch their fire and water display. We caught it during our previous trip so we decided to just admire the night view and took pictures by the dragon’s tail during this trip.

We passed by this cute matcha milk tea shop along the way back. It was slightly too sweet for my liking but my husband enjoyed it.

Day 2: Pink Church, My Khe Beach and Son Tra Peninsula

We began our second day with hotel breakfast plus our first bowl of Vietnamese pho of the trip. Full disclosure, their pho wasn’t very good. But overall our breakfast selection was solid for the caliber of hotel we stayed at.

About a ten minute walk from the hotel, we stopped at Da Nang Cathedral. Known locally as the Pink Church or Chicken Church. This French colonial era Catholic church features pastel pink exteriors with gothic detailing and a rooster weathercock perched atop.

It makes for a nice photo opportunity but I wouldn’t say it was a must-see. Vietnam is home to many pink churches and Da Nang Cathedral doesn’t require too much time. If you are staying at a nearby hotel, by all means tack it on to your 4-day itinerary for Da Nang and Hoi An.

My Khe Beach: Soft Sand and Easy Family Time

From the Pink Church we hailed a Grab to My Khe Beach. The ride across town was quick.

My Khe Beach is one of Vietnam’s most well-known beaches. You can see why once you arrive. It’s long, the sand is soft, and there are coconut trees swaying in the breeze. From some angles I was reminded of Nice or Qingdao. It’s hard to say if Da Nang is nicer or classier than those beach towns. However, Da Nang does come across as a bit more relaxed.

The sand felt nice and soft walking around barefoot. My Khe Beach is great if you have kids. There is plenty of space for them to dig, run around, and play without having to over-plan things.

Although… I will be honest with you. This beach is not perfect. First, the water wasn’t as clear as I have experienced at some island beaches. Also, the air had a slight haze to it. I did notice trash mixed in on the sand. Just be careful if your kids are walking around barefoot.

All that being said, if you are spending time in Da Nang My Khe Beach is a great reason to visit. It’s close to hotels, restaurants, and the airport.

Lunch in Da Nang: Seafood, Pho and Passionfruit Drinks

We had wanted to have lunch at An Thoi but there was a long queue so we headed over to another Vietnamese restaurant which was just opposite called Bep Lua Restaurant.

We didn’t regret the decision as it was one of the most fulfilling meals we’ve had in Da Nang. We ordered vietnamese fried pork, cheese oysters, garlic butter shrimp, scallops, pho and drinks. The garlic butter shrimp was by far our favourite dish of the day. They served it with bread and dipping the Vietnamese baguette into the butter garlic sauce was heavenly.

The oysters were dirt cheap compared to Singapore prices too! Another highlight was this passionfruit drink. If you’re a fan of passionfruit, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Vietnam.

Afternoon at Son Tra Peninsula

We took a Grab to Son Tra Peninsula after lunch. The drive took almost an hour.

Son Tra Peninsula is popular among travellers due to Linh Ung Pagoda and a giant white Lady Buddha statue. We had been there before and would still recommend it if you’re visiting Danang for the first time. Today we had other plans.

Our primary destination was the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort.

This is easily one of Vietnam’s most renowned luxury hotels for many reasons. Bill Bensley’s design philosophy was theatrical, playful, yet had a strong sense of connection to the hillside.

There are four levels to the hotel: Heaven, Sky, Earth and Sea. Guests are transported between levels by a funicular called the Nam Tram. It was designed to resemble a Vietnamese basket boat. This turns an otherwise mundane hotel transferring between buildings into part of the experience.

InterContinental Danang: A Resort That Feels Like a Destination

The lobby view is probably one of the most famous in Da Nang. You walk in and immediately see the sea framed by dramatic architecture.

There are fresh orchids everywhere, lotus-inspired details, bold black-and-white design elements, and a strong sense of old-world glamour. The Long Bar is especially striking, with its long counter, sea views and moving ceiling fans that create a lazy tropical rhythm.

For families, the kids club was a pleasant surprise. It was small but beautifully designed, and the free childcare gave adults a rare moment to relax. Our child had a great time there.

The private beach was also comfortable, with enough loungers, attentive staff, towels and ice water. One small detail I appreciated was the bamboo mat pathway across the sand, which made walking under the hot sun much easier.

In the evening, we had dinner at Terra Mare, the resort’s Italian restaurant. For a luxury resort, the pricing felt relatively reasonable. Four adults spent under $300 USD, and children under six could enjoy complimentary kids meals.

The food was good, the setting was calm, and the sunset atmosphere made it feel like a proper holiday dinner.

Day 3: From Da Nang to Hoi An

We had breakfast at Citron the next morning. Citron is one of InterContinental Danang’s signature restaurants. The restaurant’s signature look is the outdoor tables made to resemble Vietnamese conical hats. Yes, you read that right. There is often a line for these tables.

My parents woke up early so we were able to get a table ourselves. Sitting at our breakfast table watching the sea and morning mist envelop Son Tra Peninsula was truly one of my favorite moments of the entire trip.

We spent some more time wandering around the resort grounds after breakfast. We let our child loose in the kids club again and lounged around by the beach for most of the morning. We wanted to see monkeys but couldn’t get a reservation on the resort’s nature expedition. My mother did see a few near Citron early in the morning so keep your eyes peeled if you’re lucky enough to stay at the resort.

We transferred from Da Nang to Hoi An around noon. The drive took just over an hour.

It was a completely different atmosphere. Da Nang is coastal and bustling, while Hoi An is softer. Greenery and rural elements like rice fields, rivers, coconut palms and low-rise buildings give it a more mellow vibe.

Namia River Retreat: A Wellness Resort in Hoi An

Our next stay was at Namia River Retreat. This luxe wellness resort recently opened in 2024 and is located in the small town of Hoi An. The hotel is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and is an all villa property along the Thu Bon River.

The villas each have their own private pool and blend into nature with inspiration from local fishing houses. Palm leaf roofs cover furniture made with reclaimed wood and bamboo. It’s luxe without being flashy. It feels serene, natural and healing.

One of the reasons I booked this resort was for all the included experiences. Namia offers plenty of wellness activities, spa treatments, bike rides, basket boat adventures, and even river transfers to Hoi An Ancient Town. As a family, it really simplifies vacation planning when so much is included.

Our villa was family sized with its own pool and sunken bathtub. The minibar was stocked generously, housekeeping came twice daily, and the butler team was quick to respond. Buggy service was excellent as well.

We walked down to find lunch near the resort after checking in. We stopped by Mate Cafe, which I would recommend (but take a Grab if it’s hot outside). The banana crepe with coconut ice cream was delicious, the Vietnamese spring rolls were fresh, and the pork noodles were flavourful.

Afternoon Basket Boat Experience

In the afternoon we took part in the resorts basket boat activity.

Basket boats are large round bamboo boats which you can find drifting around the coconut forest areas near Hoi An. In touristy areas these rides get hectic with loud spinning boat shows with performers. Ours was quiet and more laid back which we preferred.

Floating through the coconut forest area by water on this boat wasn’t as hot as you would think due to the shade from above. They even had the boatman make small toys out of coconut leaves for the children.

It was a half hour ride which was perfect for a family with small children.

Sunset Boat Ride to Hoi An Ancient Town

Sunset boat ride to Hoi An Ancient Town was another huge selling point for booking Namia River Retreat.

This included a sunset boat ride from the resort over to Hoi An Ancient Town. The boat itself was very basic; made of wood and very atmospheric. They served cocktails and small snacks onboard.

As the sun started to change colour to orange, the whole river looked magical. I always think sunsets in Southeast Asia have a warmth to them. This one did not disappoint.

The ride took about half an hour. It dropped you right at the entrance of Hoi An Ancient Town.

Hoi An town at sunset looks beautiful. The yellow buildings, lanterns along the river, reflection of lights on the water and old fashioned wooden houses make for such a romantic scene. Yes it’s touristy. But doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful too.

By nighttime the riverside area came alive. There were boats filled with lanterns drifting in the water. Restaurants were packed. And everything lit up by a warm orange hue. Our daughter put her conical hat on and danced happily around town.

Eating dinner at Hoi An Ancient Town was pricey. Nearly Singaporean prices at some restaurants. But still good enough to eat at once for the atmosphere.

Day 4: Spa, Cycling and a Slow Final Morning

Final day of our 4-day Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary was meant to relax, taking it slow.

Namia River Retreat offers guests a complimentary daily 90 minute spa treatment and we were definitely looking forward to that. We had breakfast in the resort before checking out. It was great with nice ingredients and lots of variety.

Don’t skip the Vietnamese salt coffee. Easily one of our favourite breakfast beverages from the trip.

After breakfast we rented bikes to explore around the resort more and hung at our private pool some more. The whole place felt super serene in the morning with the river running by.

We made our way to the spa at 11am. They even supply you with spa robes and disposable undies in your villa for convenience. It was super easy. We summoned a buggy, dropped our kid off at the kids club, and headed straight to treatment.

Our spa treatment was incredibly rejuvenating. Perfect way to end the vacation.

We had one last casual street food dinner outside of the hotel before departing. We loved the white rose dumplings.

Is 4 Days Enough for Da Nang and Hoi An?

Yes 4 days is sufficient for a first visit to Da Nang/Hoi An if routed correctly.

Of course you will not see everything but you will have time to relax on the beach, try some street food, visit Son Tra Peninsula, check out a luxury resort, explore Hoi An Ancient Town, take a basket boat ride and stay at a wellness resort.

If you want to take it slower with family I would not try to cram too many additional activities. Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains and extra cafes are options if you find yourself with more time but as it is this 4 day itinerary is packed without being rushed.

Best Time to Visit Da Nang and Hoi An

We went April and it was sunny but not too bad. If you are out in the direct sun it gets hot but nice and cool in the shade next to the sea.

Dry season is probably better if you plan on beach weather stuff. Only tip I have if you have kids is DON’T over plan outdoor afternoon stuff cause the sun gets to you.

Morning beach stroll, late afternoon cruise and evening old town stroll is perfect!

Where to Stay for This Da Nang and Hoi An Itinerary

So for this itinerary, I would split your time between Da Nang and Hoi An.

Stay in Da Nang if you are interested in beaches, downtown comforts, seafood restaurants, and ease getting to/from the airport.

Stay in Hoi An if you’re interested in the vibe, spas, rural scenery, and being right next to the Ancient Town.

We stayed at three different places for comfort during this 4-day itinerary. But if you hate switching hotels, you can cut it down by staying two nights at Da Nang and 1 night at Hoi An or vice versa.

Final Thoughts: Is This 4-Day Itinerary for Da Nang and Hoi An Worth It?

Absolutely!

Our 4 day Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary packs in a little bit of everything without overwhelming you. From Da Nang beaches and seafood streets to luxe resorts on Son Tra Peninsula and lantern-lined streets of Hoi An – not to mention our addition of a restorative wellness day – every moment of your time in Da Nang and Hoi An will feel relaxing and rejuvenating.

It’s also family-friendly. Grab is straightforward, food is plentiful and within easy distance, and hotel accommodations with family amenities are aplenty.

This itinerary can also be tailored towards couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway. From couple’s massages to sunset river cruises and stunning resort stays, exploring Da Nang and Hoi An with your significant other is incredibly romantic.

Lastly, for travelers seeking bang for their buck in Southeast Asia, visiting Central Vietnam is one of your best bets.

Da Nang and Hoi An aren’t perfect but part of what makes them so great is they embrace their imperfections. They’re beautiful. They’re warm. They have layers. And most importantly, they welcome you back time and time again with new adventures for you and your growing self.