Da Nang or Hanoi: Which city matches your travel style?

1. Similarities between Da Nang and Hanoi

1.1. Ease of access

Da Nang or Hanoi - which is easier to access? Both cities are easy to reach. As major economic hubs in Vietnam, they are highly accessible by air. Other transportation options include coaches, trains, cars, and motorbikes.

As of May 2025, Da Nang International Airport offers direct flights to Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Hong Kong, Incheon, Busan, Tokyo, Manila, Ahmedabad, and more. Upcoming routes include Osaka, Russia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.

Noi Bai International Airport also welcomes numerous daily flights from Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kaohsiung, Macau, Bangkok, Singapore, Tokyo, Osaka, Yangon, Incheon, Sydney, Delhi, Mumbai, Frankfurt, Moscow, and more. Future routes are expected from Italy, Russia, Denmark, and the UAE.

In both cities, tourists can easily get around using motorbikes, cars, taxis, buses, cyclos, and bicycles. In Hanoi, there are additional options such as the elevated metro. Many tourists prefer traveling by taxi, especially with the eco-friendly electric taxis of Xanh SM, which is known for comfort, safety, affordability, and 24/7 support.

1.2. Diverse accommodations

Da Nang or Hanoi in terms of accommodation? As two of Vietnam’s leading tourist destinations, both cities offer a wide range of options, from hotels and resorts, from homestays to serviced apartments. 

In Da Nang, the beachfront and city center are the most popular areas for lodging. Tourists can also easily combine their trip with a visit to Hoi An and stay at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, a luxury beachfront resort offering a peaceful escape with top-tier, all-inclusive services.

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An

1.3. Safety

Da Nang or Hanoi - which city is safer? Overall, Vietnam is considered a safe country for international tourists, including solo female travelers. The Travel Off Path (USA) named Vietnam the safest destination in Asia for 2024. According to Lonely Planet’s 2024 ranking of the safest solo travel destinations in Southeast Asia, Da Nang ranked 3rd and Hanoi 6th.

However, you should still be mindful of petty theft, taxi scams, and tour scams.

>>> More on: Is Hanoi safe? Must-know facts and travel tips for first-timers

2. Da Nang vs Hanoi: What sets these cities apart

2.1. Climate

Which has better weather, Da Nang or Hanoi? Da Nang has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The best time to visit Da Nang is from January to September, when the weather in Da Nang is dry and warm.

Hanoi, in contrast, experiences all four seasons: chilly spring, hot summer, cool autumn, and cold winter. Looking at Hanoi’s weather by month, the ideal times to visit are autumn (August-November) and spring (March-April).

2.2. Nature and scenery

Da Nang or Hanoi for natural beauty? When it comes to landscapes, Da Nang holds the edge with its diverse terrains. The city boasts a combination of plains and mountains, bordered by the majestic Hai Van Pass and the untouched Son Tra Peninsula. Da Nang is also home to a long stretch of coastline, featuring picturesque beaches like Non Nuoc Beach and My Khe Beach.

Hanoi, while lacking a coastline, still offers attractive natural attractions such as Ba Vi National Park, the Perfume Pagoda complex, and an array of lakes like Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake.

2.3. History and culture

Da Nang or Hanoi, which is better for culture lovers? Da Nang is known as a key international maritime gateway with over 700 years of history. It also played a strategic role in national defense. While Da Nang has fewer heritage sites, it still features many culturally rich attractions like Dien Hai Citadel, Hai Van Gate, Marble Mountains, Linh Ung Pagoda, Museum of Cham Sculpture, Da Nang Museum. There are traditional craft villages such as Nam O Fish Sauce Village and Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village.

Meanwhile, Hanoi is known as the cultural, political, and economic heart of the country. It has amassed over 1,000 years of history and thousands of cultural relics. Hanoi boasts Vietnam’s richest collection of heritage sites, including Ngoc Son Temple, Temple of Literature, Quan Thanh Temple, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Flag Tower, and Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. There are over 1,270 traditional craft villages specializing in ceramics, textiles, woodwork, embroidery, lacquerware, and bamboo weaving, like Bat Trang Pottery Village.

2.4. Entertainment activities

Da Nang or Hanoi for fun? Both cities offer amusement parks, shopping malls, bars, clubs, walking streets, mountain trekking tours, and river cruises. However, Da Nang’s coastal location gives it an advantage for water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, surfing, and kayaking.

From Da Nang, tourists can easily travel about 40 kilometers to VinWonders Nam Hoi An - one of Vietnam’s top amusement parks with cultural shows, roller coasters, and more.

Book tickets of VinWonders Nam Hoi An

In Hanoi, don't miss Ocean City in the east - a trendy resort and entertainment complex. In Ocean City, Grand World features diverse dining and shopping opportunities, and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park is packed with exciting water slides and games.

Book tickets of VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park

2.5. Food scene

Another key factor when choosing Da Nang or Hanoi is culinary experiences. Both are culinary hotspots in Asia. Hanoi was crowned "Asia's Best Culinary City 2024" by the World Culinary Awards. Meanwhile, Da Nang was named one of the "Top 10 Most Exciting Culinary Destinations in the World for 2025" by the Michelin Guide.

Da Nang, as a coastal city, is famous for seafood. Other standout Da Nang foods include mi Quang, fish cake noodles, rice paper pork rolls, Vietnamese pancakes, and grilled pork skewers.

Hanoi’s cuisine is tailored to the season. The city benefits from a large supply of ingredients - from the mountains to the plains - and its distinct seasons result in a rich array of dishes. Must-tries include pho Hanoi, pho rolls, turmeric fish, shrimp cake, green sticky rice, bun thang, egg coffee, bun cha, bun dau mam tom, and other Hanoi's street food.

2.6. Shopping

Da Nang or Hanoi, which is better for shopaholics? Both cities are shopping paradises with vibrant markets and unique products. Shopping in Da Nang offers specialties like marble sculptures, ao dai, conical hats, dried seafood, and more. The top spots include Cho Con Market and Han Market.

When shopping in Hanoi, don’t miss Hanoi shopping streets or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi Old Quarter. There, you can find handicrafts like wood carvings, embroidery, lacquerware, and silk.

2.7. Environment and lifestyle

When choosing Da Nang or Hanoi, don’t overlook the environment and lifestyle. Da Nang is known as Vietnam’s most livable city, with minimal air pollution, little traffic congestion, and a close connection to nature. The locals are friendly, sincere, and hospitable, contributing to a relaxed lifestyle.

Hanoi is busier and more fast-paced, with denser traffic. At first glance, Hanoians are known for their elegance and politeness.

2.8. Nightlife

Da Nang or Hanoi for nightlife? Both cities offer plenty of evening attractions, including walking streets, night markets, bars, clubs, and restaurants. Tourists can visit night markets in Da Nang and admire iconic bridges like the Dragon Bridge and Han River Bridge, which are lit up at night. Da Nang also features a scenic night cruise on the Han River, offering views of the city’s vibrant riverbanks and illuminated bridges.

In Hanoi, tourists can explore Ta Hien Street, night markets in Hanoi, and Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. There are night tours such as the "Sacred Night" at Hoa Lo Prison, the "Decoding the Citadel" at Thang Long Imperial Citadel, and the "Heart and Talent" at Vietnam Museum of Literature.

2.9. Cost of traveling

Da Nang or Hanoi when it comes to cost? Da Nang is generally more budget-friendly. It was ranked by Travel Off Path among the 5 most affordable destinations for digital nomads in Asia for 2025.

According to the 2024 Spatial Cost of Living Index (SCOLI) by Vietnam’s General Statistics Office, Hanoi was the most expensive city in the country. Da Nang came in 5th, with a SCOLI score of 98.21% compared to Hanoi.

3. Which is better to visit, Da Nang or Hanoi?

Da Nang offers a well-rounded getaway, blending scenic landscapes with modern vibes. Its expansive beaches and various water-based activities make it a paradise for sea lovers. Those interested in culture can also easily explore nearby UNESCO-listed destinations like Hoi An and Hue.

Hanoi is best suited for culture seekers. With centuries of history woven into its streets, Hanoi invites visitors to experience authentic Vietnamese traditions. Hanoi also serves as a hub for trips around other destinations in northern Vietnam, including Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long.

If you have the time, it is recommended that you explore both cities, as each offers a unique charm. Traveling to Da Nang from Hanoi is convenient with many flights, trains, and sleeper buses.

>>> Discover: Hanoi itinerary: Guide to top activities and sights for an ultimate visit

When deciding between Da Nang or Hanoi, it depends on your travel style. Da Nang has its stunning beaches and a relaxed pace, while Hanoi has its rich history and vibrant culture. Your choice depends on the experiences you seek, and either city guarantees a memorable visit.