The trip from Da Nang to Da Lat takes you from the sunny beaches of Vietnam to the cooler, romantic highlands. Coalescing vibrant beaches, cultural allures, and tranquil mountainous scenery, this route brings travelers an exceptional experience of Vietnam’s varied landscapes and lifestyles.
Overview Of Da Nang To Da Lat
Traveling from Da Nang to Da Lat allows you to enjoy both the charm of the coast and the coolness of the Central Highlands. Da Nang is known for its golden beaches, a quite modern feel, and several stops worth visiting, and is a place people often stop on their way to central Vietnam. A very short flight or a beautiful drive makes Da Lat a truly idyllic addition to everyone’s trip, so the transition isn’t just refreshing, but enjoyable, heading into a new area of Vietnam.
Travelers often make a combination of Da Nang and Da Lat in one vacation because the contrast makes it a richer experience. After spending days in the hot sun, sand, and sea, moving to the cool, green, and romantic Da Lat is like stepping off a plane in a different land. Whether it is swimming with the locals at My Khe Beach or stopping to wander with the flowers and waterfalls in Da Lat, the transition is seamless, with two contrasting and equally charming sides of Vietnam to enjoy!
How Far Is It From Da Nang To Da Lat?
The road distance from Da Nang to Da Lat is about 654 kilometers. If you travel by car or bus, it usually takes around 11 to 12 hours, depending on the traffic and weather conditions through the mountain passes. While it is a long ride, you do see some nice views of Vietnam’s countryside and highlands.
If you travel by train, the trip takes a little longer. Train service on the route does not go directly to Da Lat, so travelers typically travel from Da Nang by train to Nha Trang, then take a bus/car from Nha Trang to Da Lat. This option usually takes about 15 to 17 hours total travel time; however, this option is best for people who like to go slow and enjoy the landscapes as they go by.
How To Travel From Da Nang To Da Lat?
Traveling to Da Nang or traveling from Da Nang to Da Lat can be done by a number of means, depending on your budget, comfort level, and time on the road. Listed below are the main transport options to provide you with the information to make your best choice.
By Plane
The fastest and most convenient transport option is to fly. Da Nang Airport (DAD) has a direct flight from Da Nang and lands at Lien Khuong Airport (DLI) in Da Lat. The direct flight takes just over one hour, allowing you enough time to leave Da Nang in the morning and already be exploring Da Lat by lunchtime.
And of course, flight tickets are more expensive than taking the bus or other transport options, but most travelers use them due to the time difference and having to worry less about the inconvenience of overland transport.
| Aspect | Details |
| Flight Duration | About 1 hour 15 minutes (not including airport transfers) |
| Airport in Da Nang | Da Nang International Airport (DAD) |
| Airport in Da Lat | Lien Khuong Airport (DLI) |
| Estimated Price | 800,000 – 1,800,000 VND (varies by airline & season) |
| Required Documents | Passport (global travelers) or ID card (Vietnamese travelers) |
By Bus
Riding on the bus is the most common choice among budget-conscious travelers. Busing takes a long time, around 14 to 16 hours, but sleeper buses offer beds, and you can get some sleep along the way.
You can also take a VIP sleeper bus or limousine minivan if you prefer more comfort, more space, and amenities like WiFi and USB chargers. Riding the bus can be tiring, but it is a great way to get to Da Lat affordably and practically, especially if you book a night bus and save on the hotel.
| Vehicle Type | Price (VND) | Notes |
| Sleeper Bus | 500,000 – 700,000 | Budget-friendly, basic comfort, suitable for backpackers |
| VIP Sleeper Bus | 600,000 – 850,000 | Larger seats, fewer passengers, bottled water, and some scenic stops |
| Limousine Minivan | 800,000 – 1,200,000 | Spacious seating, modern amenities (USB chargers, WiFi, direct drop-off) |
| Tourist Bus | 500,000 – 800,000 | Affordable, basic pick-up/drop-off, comfortable for long rides |
By Private Car
If privacy, flexibility, and comfort are key, then renting your own car or van is the way to go. It takes around 13 to 15 hours to drive, but you can make your schedule and stop when your group wants to stop or gets tired.
This option can be beneficial for families, travelers with friends, and colleagues. It gives you the flexibility to have a smoother and more private experience. Overall, it will be more expensive than buses, but the comfort and convenience of door-to-door service will often make it worth it.
| Vehicle Type | Price (VND) | Notes |
| 4-Seater Car | 6,500,000 – 7,500,000 | Solo travelers or couples who want comfort and privacy |
| 7-Seater Car | 7,000,000 – 8,000,000 | Small families needing more space |
| 16-Seater Van | 8,000,000 – 9,000,000 | Large groups or tour parties |
| Luxury SUV | 8,500,000 – 10,000,000 | Business travelers or those who want luxury and modern amenities |
By Train (Via Nha Trang)
While there isn’t a direct train from Da Nang to Da Lat, many tourists still like this method of transportation due to the beautiful scenery through the mountains. You take a train from Da Nang to Nha Trang, which takes about 10-11 hours, and then you can take a bus or car for another 4-6 hours to get to Da Lat.
So, the total time is really about 15-17 hours. The train won’t get you there as fast, but it may appeal to those who want to take their time, enjoy the countryside scenery, or have cabin comfort versus bus comfort.
Tips For Traveling From Da Nang To Da Lat
Since Da Nang and Da Lat are quite far apart, planning your trip in advance will contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable journey. Here are some tips you’ll find useful before you go:
- Flying is the most convenient and always the fastest way to get to Da Lat, giving you more time to enjoy what Da Lat has to offer instead of wasting hours on the road.
- If you do take the bus, consider that because there are so many mid-day departures, you’re likely to get into Da Lat late at night. Be sure to confirm with your hotel about late check-in beforehand and whether or not they have a 24-hour check-in.
- Wear comfortable clothing for the trip, but don’t forget to bring a warm jacket, because it’s going to be cold at night in Da Lat, especially if you arrive after dark.
- Bring some refreshments and water. A travel pillow is also encouraged, because it’ll make the bus and/or car ride slightly less tiresome.
- During holiday seasons or flower festival time, make sure you book your tickets early if you’re traveling during the peak season! Even transportation can sell out!
Recommended Stops Along the Way
The journey from Da Nang to Da Lat takes considerable time; however, it does not have to be purely a transit line between two cities. Below are some recommended stops that could help enhance the quality of your trip.
Hai Van Pass
Often praised as the most beautiful coastal road in Vietnam, Hai Van Pass displays stunning views of the ocean on one side and lush green mountains on the other side. Winding roads and numerous scenic photo points make it a prime adventure destination.
Lang Co Beach
South of Hai Van Pass is Lang Co Beach, a serene, tranquil white sandy bay with blue water. It’s the perfect place to relax, indulge in the freshest seafood, or simply bask in the peaceful environment and then continue your journey.
Nha Trang
Along the coastline is Nha Trang, a vibrant city that is popular for beaches, islands, and nights out. The city is frequented by numerous tourists who have it as an overnight stop and, in the process, unwind while indulging in the city’s attractions and some fresh fish.
Pongour Waterfall
Stop along the way at Pongour Waterfall, the most impressive of the region’s waterfalls. Enclosed by woods and tumbling in tiers, it’s an excellent place to take photos and sample the natural splendor that Da Lat has in store.
FAQs About Traveling From Da Nang To Da Lat
If you’re planning a trip to Da Lat from Da Nang, you might want to know a bit about the distance, travel time, and if there’s a good way to get there. Here are a few questions that other travelers want to know about, and their answers to help you plan your smooth journey.
What is the quickest way to go from Da Nang to Da Lat?
The quickest and most convenient means of transportation is by air, with direct flights between Da Nang International Airport and Lien Khuong Airport, Da Lat. The direct flight takes 1 hour and 15 minutes, making travel by plane a 90-minute trip and saving almost a full day of travel compared to bus or car travel.
Is there a train going from Da Nang to Da Lat?
There is no direct train to Da Lat from Da Nang. Travelers who want to take the train to reach Da Lat typically take the train from Da Nang to Nha Trang, which is 10-11 hours, and then 4 to 6 hours of travel by bus or car to get to Da Lat. This option is for travelers who enjoy slow travel with beautiful scenery.
Is there a train connecting Da Nang and Da Lat directly?
No, there is no direct train from Da Nang to Da Lat. Most travelers who like to take the train will travel by train from Da Nang to Nha Trang (a 10-11 hour very nice train ride), and take a bus or taxi from Nha Trang to Da Lat (another 4-6 hours). This is a good option for travelers who do not mind slow travel and scenery.
What is the cheapest way to travel?
The cheapest option, in general, appears to be a sleeper bus within the region of 500,000 VND for a ticket. It may take a while, maybe as much as 14-16 hours, but for backpackers and other travelers who don’t mind sleeping on a bus, it is a good budget option.
What I should bring on the trip?
It is definitely a long trip, so you should plan to include some comfortable clothes in your carry-on backpack (for the bus or passenger car), as well as snacks, drinks, and a travel pillow for the bus. And don’t forget to bring a warm jacket! Da Lat’s hilltop environment and cool climate can provide a significant contrast to Da Nang’s warmth, especially at night if you are arriving late.
What is the best time to travel from Da Nang to Da Lat?
Da Lat is beautiful year-round, but the dry season (from November to March) is the most popular time. During that time, the climate is cool and pleasant, which is perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activity, or exploring the city’s numerous flower gardens and waterfalls.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Da Nang to Da Lat is not just a long journey – it is an opportunity to witness Vietnamese beauty: golden beaches vs pine trees wrapped in mist. Whether you fly, take a long bus ride, or travel by motorbike, there is something special about each means of transportation. Regardless of your means of transportation, the outcome is all the same: you reach Da Lat, where romance is in the air, there is nothing but fresh air, and beauty is endless. If you want to take the planning out of your trip and focus on the adventure, let Seni World handle the trip so you can simply unplug and experience the journey.
