Da Nang City: Discover the Iconic Han River Bridges

Da Nang City, a vibrant coastal hub on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, captivates over 7 million visitors annually with its 125 km South China Sea coastline and iconic landmarks. The Han River, flowing through the city’s heart in Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards, is adorned with six architecturally unique bridges that symbolize Da Nang’s transformation from a ferry-dependent port to a modern metropolis. These bridges—Dragon Bridge, Han River Bridge, Tran Thi Ly Bridge, Nguyen Van Troi Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, and Fairy Bridge—are not just functional crossings but cultural icons, each offering distinct experiences, especially at night with dazzling LED lights and events like fire shows and rotations. From the globally acclaimed Dragon Bridge to the historic Nguyen Van Troi Bridge, they connect key attractions like My Khe Beach and Da Nang International Airport, making them must-visit landmarks. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to explore these bridges sustainably. Contact +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure—reserve a tour via the links throughout this guide

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Han River bridge tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric shuttles, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share each bridge’s history and significance. Supporting communities in Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards, we align with Da Nang’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve its cultural and natural treasures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-conscious tours via the links on this page and travel responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Quang Nam Province into Da Nang City, expanding its footprint to include areas like Hoi An Town. The district level has been eliminated, making Da Nang the nation’s largest city by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND600 billion flood mitigation project (2024)—the city ensures seamless access to its iconic bridges and attractions.

Located 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City is bordered by Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai, Kon Tum, Laos, and the South China Sea. Covering 1,283.42 km² (241.51 km² urban, 1,041.91 km² rural), it features a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (February–August, 24–35°C or 75.2–95°F) and a rainy season (September–January, 18–30°C or 64.4–86°F), with peak rainfall in October–November (150–500 mm).

The city’s terrain, from the Truong Son Mountains to coastal plains, creates a stunning backdrop for the Han River bridges. The river fuels Da Nang’s tourism hub status, while over 50% of the area is forested, enhancing its natural allure.

1. Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng)

The world’s largest dragon-shaped steel bridge, Dragon Bridge stretches 666 meters across the Han River, connecting Hai Chau Ward to Son Tra Ward and serving as the shortest route from Da Nang International Airport to My Khe Beach. Designed by Ammann & Whitney and Louis Berger Group, it opened in 2013 with a VND 1.7 trillion (USD $85 million) investment. Its 550-meter steel dragon, illuminated by 15,000 LED lights, breathes fire and water every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:00 PM, drawing crowds during events like the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June–July). The bridge’s single-steel arch, the first in Southeast Asia, earned the 2014 Engineering Excellence Award.

• Experience: Watch the 15-minute fire and water show; stroll pedestrian paths for skyline views; capture night photography.

• Cost: Free; guided eco-tours $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND); Han River cruise $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; fire show 9:00 PM (Fridays–Sundays, holidays).

• Sustainable Tip: Walk or cycle to reduce emissions; avoid littering to preserve the riverfront.

• Tip: Arrive by 8:30 PM for prime viewing spots on Tran Hung Dao or Bach Dang Streets. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).

2. Han River Bridge (Cầu Sông Hàn)

Vietnam’s first swing bridge, Han River Bridge, spans 487.7 meters, connecting Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards. Built by Vietnamese engineers from 1998 to 2000 for VND 117 billion (USD $5.8 million), it rotates 90 degrees nightly at 1:00 AM (11:00 PM Sundays/holidays) to allow ships to pass, a 15-minute spectacle. Its 11 spans, 12.9-meter width, and LED lights make it a local pride symbol.

• Experience: Witness the rotation from Bach Dang Street; enjoy riverside cafes; pair with Dragon Bridge’s fire show.

• Cost: Free; guided eco-tours $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND); Han River cruise $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; rotation 1:00 AM daily (11:00 PM Sundays/holidays).

• Sustainable Tip: Use electric shuttles; support eco-vendors to preserve the riverfront.

• Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early for rotation spots; visit Sundays for earlier timing. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).

3. Tran Thi Ly Bridge (Cầu Trần Thị Lý)

Named after a Vietnam War heroine, this 731-meter cable-stayed bridge, opened in 2013, features a 145-meter sail-shaped pylon, designed by TEDI for VND 1.25 trillion (USD $62 million). With a 34.5-meter width and LED lights, it evokes a sailboat or guitar, offering scenic views. Historically, a bridge here existed since 1950, named De Lattre de Tassigny, later Trinh Minh The.

• Experience: Stroll pedestrian paths for Han River views; capture night photos; visit during fireworks festivals.

• Cost: Free; guided eco-tours $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; best at night (6:00 PM–10:00 PM) for lights.

• Sustainable Tip: Cycle to reduce emissions; avoid littering.

• Tip: Pair with nearby Dragon Bridge for a vibrant evening. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).

4. Nguyen Van Troi Bridge (Cầu Nguyễn Văn Trỗi)

The oldest Han River bridge, built in 1965 by RMK (USA) for wartime logistics, spans 513.8 meters with a rare Poni steel truss design. Named after revolutionary Nguyen Van Troi, it became pedestrian-only in 2013, hosting night tourism events like street performances and festivals. Repaired in 1978 and 1996, it’s a preserved “souvenir” of Da Nang’s history.

• Experience: Enjoy street music, art exhibitions, or yoga festivals; photograph its yellow trusses at night.

• Cost: Free; guided eco-tours $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND); event fees $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; events 6:00 PM–11:00 PM (weekends/holidays).

• Sustainable Tip: Walk to events; support eco-vendors.

• Tip: Visit after 6:00 PM for lights; bring a flashlight post-11:00 PM. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).

5. Thuan Phuoc Bridge (Cầu Thuận Phước)

Da Nang’s longest bridge at 1,855 meters, opened in 2009, connects Hai Chau Ward to Thuan Phuoc Ward, linking the city to Tien Sa Port. Designed by COWI (Denmark) for VND 1 trillion (USD $50 million), its suspension design and colorful LED lights create a dramatic nighttime vista. Its 36-meter clearance accommodates large vessels.

• Experience: Walk for East Sea views; photograph its illuminated cables; visit during festivals for light shows.

• Cost: Free; guided eco-tours $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; best at night (6:00 PM–10:00 PM).

• Sustainable Tip: Use bicycles; dispose of waste responsibly.

• Tip: Visit at dusk for sunset views; less crowded than central bridges. Included in our Da Nang Coastal & River Adventure ($65–$85).

6. Fairy Bridge (Cầu Tiên Sa)

A lesser-known gem near Tien Sa Port in Son Tra Ward, Fairy Bridge is a small, scenic pedestrian bridge offering views of Son Tra Peninsula’s cliffs and beaches. Named for the “Tien Sa” legend of fairies descending to Son Tra, it’s a tranquil spot for photography and relaxation, enhanced by nearby eco-tourism activities.

• Experience: Enjoy coastal breezes; photograph cliffs; pair with Tien Sa Beach visits.

• Cost: Free; guided eco-tours $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; best at sunrise (5:30 AM) or sunset (5:30 PM).

• Sustainable Tip: Support #savesontra; avoid plastic waste.

• Tip: Combine with Son Tra eco-tours for a full day. Included in our Son Tra Nature Tour ($60–$80).

The bridges are centrally located in Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards, 2–3 km from Da Nang city center and 27 km from Hoi An Town, accessible by eco-friendly transport.

• From Da Nang City Center (2–3 km):

  • Walking: 10–15 minutes along Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao Street.

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); 5–10 minutes.

  • Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); 5 minutes.

  • Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) round-trip, 5 minutes.

  • Electric Shuttle: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) along Han River routes.

  • Private Tour: Tours start at $50/person with eco-transfers.

• From Hoi An Town (27 km):

  • Taxi/Grab: $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND) round-trip, 40–50 minutes.

  • Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND), 40 minutes.

  • Private Tour: Round-trip transfers $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• From Da Nang International Airport (4 km): Taxi/Grab $3–$6 (75,000–150,000 VND), 10–15 minutes.

Tip: Walk or cycle for eco-friendly access; use Grab for transparent pricing. Book a Legend Travel Group tour for seamless transfers.

Entrance Fees

• All bridges: Free.

• Nearby attractions: Cham Sculpture Museum ($2.50 or 60,000 VND), Ba Na Hills ($38–$45 or 950,000–1,125,000 VND), My Khe Beach (free).

Activities

• Guided eco-tours (bridges, nearby sites): $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND); private tours: $85–$130 (2,125,000–3,250,000 VND).

• Han River cruise: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) for 1-hour tours.

• Festival events (Nguyen Van Troi): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Dining nearby (e.g., Madame Lan, Son Tra Night Market): $3.50–$16 (85,000–400,000 VND).

• Coffee at riverside cafes (e.g., Riverside Coffee): $1.50–$4.50 (37,500–112,500 VND).

Transport

• Within Da Nang (1–3 km): Bicycle $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); motorbike $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); taxi/Grab $3–$5/trip (75,000–125,000 VND).

• To Bridges (2–3 km from city center): Taxi/Grab $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) round-trip.

• From Hoi An Town (27 km): Taxi/Grab $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND) round-trip.

• Hanoi to Da Nang (750 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$150; train $40–$65 + $6–$13 taxi; bus $25–$40 + $6–$13 taxi.

• Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang (900 km, round-trip): Flight $90–$170; bus $35–$50 + $6–$13 taxi.

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $10–$30 (includes transport, free access, street food).

• Mid-range: $30–$60 (includes guided tour, dining).

• Luxury: $60–$100 (includes private tour, cruise, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for vendors; ATMs are widespread in Hai Chau. Dry season (February–August) offers ideal weather for night visits.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–4 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group, especially for March–August or the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June–July). Arrive by 8:30 PM for Dragon Bridge fire shows (Fridays–Sundays, 9:00 PM) or 10:30 PM for Han River Bridge rotations (Sundays/holidays, 11:00 PM).

• Weather Prep:

  • Dry Season (February–August): Light clothing for 24–35°C (75.2–95°F); hats for evening walks.

  • Rainy Season (September–January): Raincoats, umbrellas; check November flood risks via AccuWeather. Waterproof shoes for riverside paths.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Nguyen Van Troi, Bach Dang, or Tran Hung Dao Streets; bridges are walkable from the city center. Han River pathways are bike-friendly.

• Best Viewing Spots: Bach Dang Street, Tran Hung Dao Street, or rooftops like Novotel Da Nang for Dragon Bridge and Han River Bridge; East Bank Park for Nguyen Van Troi events; Han River cruises for all bridges.

• Budget Wisely: Carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes; guided eco-tours bundle multiple bridges for value.

• Stay Safe: Secure belongings during crowded events; avoid bridge edges during rotations or shows; watch for traffic post-events.

• Sustainability: Walk, cycle, or use electric shuttles; support eco-vendors; dispose of waste responsibly to preserve the riverfront.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors ($1–$2); respect local crowds and historical significance of bridges.

Our sustainable tours showcase the Han River bridges and nearby attractions:

• Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70/person): Dragon Bridge fire show, Han River Bridge rotation, Nguyen Van Troi Bridge events, Tran Thi Ly Bridge views. Includes eco-transfers, guide, and snacks.

• Da Nang Coastal & River Adventure ($65–$85/person): Han River bridges, My Khe Beach, Cham Sculpture Museum. Includes electric taxi transfers and lunch.

• Da Nang City Explorer ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Han River bridges, Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, homestays ($12–$30/night or 300,000–750,000 VND). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include entrance fees, eco-transfers, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 10+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page or contact +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Da Nang City’s Han River bridges are more than crossings—they’re architectural marvels and cultural icons that define the city’s soul. From Dragon Bridge’s fiery spectacle to Han River Bridge’s unique swing, Tran Thi Ly’s sail-like elegance, Nguyen Van Troi’s historic charm, Thuan Phuoc’s grandeur, and Fairy Bridge’s serene beauty, each offers a distinct experience. Supported by Da Nang’s sustainable tourism initiatives, Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through these icons, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience that’s both unforgettable and responsible. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Han River bridges adventure today!
Ready to explore Da Nang’s iconic Han River bridges? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the city’s vibrant heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group (for copyright purposes).