1. Introduction to Da Nang International Airport
Da Nang International Airport is the third busiest airport in Vietnam, serving as the main gateway to Central Vietnam. Located just 3 km from the city center, the airport plays a vital role in connecting Da Nang to major cities in Asia and beyond.
Opened during the French colonial era and modernized extensively in recent years, it now handles over 15 million passengers annually. With both domestic and international terminals, it supports Vietnam’s fast-growing tourism and business sectors.
If you’re planning a trip to Da Nang, understanding how the airport works can save you time and prevent unnecessary stress upon arrival. For more travel insights, see our Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang for tips on where to stay and what to do.
2. Key Facts and Location Details
- IATA Code: DAD
- ICAO Code: VVDN
- Location: Hoa Thuan Tay Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City
- Distance to city center: Around 10 minutes by car
- Operator: Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV)
The airport is strategically located in Central Vietnam, making it a perfect base for visiting famous destinations like Hoi An, Hue, and Ba Na Hills. Due to its proximity to the coast and city center, transportation is fast and accessible.
Nearby attractions:
- My Khe Beach (15 minutes)
- Marble Mountains (20 minutes)
- Hoi An Ancient Town (45 minutes)
3. Terminals and Airport Layout
Da Nang International Airport has two main terminals:
- Terminal 1: Domestic flights
- Terminal 2: International flights
Each terminal is modern, equipped with essential facilities, and clearly marked in English and Vietnamese. Though the airport is smaller than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, it is well-organized and easy to navigate.
Things to know about the layout:
- Terminals are within walking distance (5–7 minutes)
- Check-in counters are on the ground floor
- Departure lounges and security are upstairs
4. Airlines and Destinations
Da Nang International Airport hosts over 25 airlines, offering both regular and seasonal flights. The airport connects to key destinations across Asia, including South Korea, Thailand, China, and Singapore.
Domestic Airlines Operating at Da Nang:
International Airlines:
Popular routes:
- Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City (~1h30)
- Da Nang → Hanoi (~1h20)
- Da Nang → Seoul (~4h30)
- Da Nang → Bangkok (~1h45)
5. Arrival Procedures for International Travelers
Upon landing at Da Nang International Airport, international travelers are guided through a clear and efficient arrival process. The airport has English signage, and immigration officers are generally helpful, especially if you have the correct documents ready.
Step-by-step arrival process:
- Disembark and follow signs to Immigration Check
- Present passport, visa (or eVisa), and arrival card (if required)
- Collect baggage at Baggage Claim
- Proceed to Customs Declaration area
Important: Vietnam offers eVisas for over 80 countries, which is the easiest option for tourists. Make sure to apply at least 3–5 business days before your flight.
6. Immigration, Customs, and Security Checks
Da Nang Airport is known for its smooth customs procedures, but delays can happen during peak hours. Ensure your documents are complete and avoid common errors such as overstaying previous visas or bringing restricted goods.
Documents to prepare:
- Valid passport (6 months minimum validity)
- Printed or digital eVisa approval letter
- Customs declaration form (if required)
Prohibited or restricted items:
- More than 5,000 USD in cash (must declare)
- Pornographic materials
- Counterfeit goods
- Certain prescription drugs without documentation
For an updated list of prohibited goods, visit the official Vietnam Customs site.
Tip: If you’re carrying electronic equipment or high-value items, declare them at customs to avoid issues when leaving the country.
7. Transportation Options from the Airport
Getting from Da Nang International Airport to your hotel or destination is simple, with several affordable and fast transportation options available right outside the terminal.
Main transport choices:
- Da Nang Airport Transfer by #VNTOUR
- Taxi: Available 24/7 at designated airport stands.
- Grab (ride-hailing app): Cheaper than taxis and allows for cashless payments
- Airport Shuttle: Operated by many hotels and resorts. Some require booking in advance
- Public Bus: Bus No. 12 and No. 1 connect the airport with the city and Hoi An
Distance to key spots:
- Da Nang Center → 3 km (~10 mins)
- Hoi An → 30 km (~45–60 mins)
- Ba Na Hills → 35 km (~60 mins)
8. Facilities and Services at the Airport
Da Nang International Airport offers a range of services to ensure comfort for all passengers. Although it’s smaller than other international hubs, it is clean, modern, and easy to navigate.
Available services:
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout both terminals
- Luggage Storage: Short-term baggage holding in both terminals
- Lounges: Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge and CIP Orchid Lounge (available with certain credit cards or for purchase)
- ATMs and Currency Exchange Counters: Located after customs
- Information Desks: Multilingual support for tourists
Other useful facilities include:
- Medical services for urgent cases
- Baby care rooms
- Prayer rooms
- Smoking areas (designated)
9. Local SIM Cards and Internet Access
Staying connected in Vietnam is simple, and Da Nang International Airport makes it even easier. Once you exit the baggage area, you’ll find several kiosks offering prepaid SIM cards for tourists.
Top mobile providers:
- Viettel – Best coverage nationwide
- Vinaphone – Reliable for data
- Mobifone – Competitive prices for short stays
What you’ll need:
- Passport for SIM registration (required by law)
- Choose data-only or voice+data plans
- Plans start from 150,000 VND (~$6) for 7GB–10GB of data
10. Currency Exchange and ATMs
It’s essential to have some Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand for local transport, food, or tipping. Luckily, Da Nang International Airport offers multiple options for currency exchange and ATM withdrawals.
Where to exchange:
- Currency counters: Located after customs and in the arrivals hall
- Bank branches: VietinBank, BIDV, and ACB counters available
- Exchange rates at the airport are slightly less favorable than in the city, but convenient for small amounts
ATM tips:
- ATMs are located at both terminals
- Most international cards accepted (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay)
- Withdrawal limits: 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND per transaction
- Fees: 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.50–$2.50) per withdrawal
11. Food and Dining Options
While Da Nang Airport is not known for high-end dining, it does offer a few reliable places to grab a meal or drink before or after your flight.
Available options:
- Big Bowl – Pho and Vietnamese noodles (Terminal 1)
- Star Cafe – Coffee, sandwiches, and pastries
- Burger King – International fast food option
- Lucky Cafe – Local coffee, banh mi, and snacks
Terminal 2 has slightly better international options than Terminal 1. Prices are higher than city average but reasonable compared to international airports.
12. Shopping and Duty-Free Outlets
If you forgot to buy souvenirs or want last-minute gifts, Da Nang Airport offers several duty-free shops and local souvenir stands.
Duty-Free Highlights:
- Perfume, cosmetics, and skincare
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Chocolates and packaged snacks
Local souvenir shops:
- Vietnamese coffee
- Silk scarves, handicrafts
- Dried fruit, cashew nuts
Prices at duty-free stores are comparable to central malls, but some local items may have a markup. If you’re planning major shopping, visit Vincom Plaza Da Nang in the city center for better variety.
13. Lost & Found and Baggage Services
Losing luggage can be stressful, but Da Nang International Airport has a dedicated Lost & Found service to assist passengers efficiently.
If you lose something:
- Visit the Lost & Found Counter at the Arrival Hall (Terminal 1 and 2)
- Provide detailed description: item, flight number, location, time
- Fill out a Lost Item Report form (available in English)
- For airline-related baggage issues, contact the airline counter directly
Contact information:
- Hotlines: +84 905920019
- Call-Center (0236) 3539 555
- Website:vietnamairport.vn/danangairport/en/
Tip: If your baggage is delayed, immediately file a report at the Airline Baggage Claim Desk. Also, keep your baggage tag until you safely retrieve your items.
14. Tips for a Smooth Airport Experience
Even seasoned travelers make mistakes in unfamiliar airports. These tips will help you save time and avoid stress during your arrival or departure at Da Nang International Airport.
Before arriving:
- Check visa requirements using our Vietnam Visa Guide
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international
- Prepare printed copies of your hotel booking and travel insurance
At the airport:
- Use Grab app instead of unmarked taxis
- Exchange just enough cash for immediate expenses
- Look for official staff badges before asking for help
Avoid:
- Currency exchange scams outside baggage claim
- Taking unsolicited transport offers
- Leaving bags unattended
15. Final Thoughts and Travel Recommendations
Da Nang International Airport may not be the largest airport in Vietnam, but it offers everything you need for a smooth start or end to your journey. With modern terminals, decent food options, fast transport access, and helpful staff, it’s a great entry point into Central Vietnam.
If you’re continuing your trip to Hoi An, Ba Na Hills, or Hue, take the time to plan ahead with our destination-specific guides below:
Safe travels and enjoy everything Da Nang and Central Vietnam have to offer!
