Da Nang International Airport

Welcome

Da Nang International Airport (DAD) surprises visitors with its proximity to downtown Da Nang — just a 4 km ride from the center of the city. More akin to a bustling train station than a sprawling airport, its compact size allows travelers to traverse the entire space in a matter of minutes. This accessibility is ideal for those looking to spend every possible moment on the beach or at a riverside café, just 15–20 minutes from touchdown. Yet, at peak charter times, you might sense the airport's capacity being stretched, especially when it comes to food and seating options.

At a glance

• Annual Passengers: 6.7 million
• Runways: 2
• Terminals: T1 (domestic), T2 (international)
• Main Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways
• Distance from City: 4 km (2.5 mi) southwest of Da Nang

Terminals & layout

Da Nang International features two primary terminals: T1 for domestic flights, home to carriers like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways, and T2, catering to international flights handled by the likes of Korean Air and Singapore Airlines. T1 and T2 are compact enough that moving between them doesn’t require planning your day around labyrinthine transfers. However, during peak charter periods, you might find seating sparse, especially in T2's boarding areas.

Getting to and from the city

Reaching the city is light work from DAD. Taxis are ubiquitous, with reputable companies such as Mai Linh and VinaSun being the most trustworthy choices. Alternatively, app-based rides like Grab may cost you around 70,000–100,000 VND, almost half of what some taxis might charge. For those heading to Hoi An, the Hoi An Shuttle Bus offers a practical intercity service, or you can choose the budget-friendly option of catching city buses from Nguyen Huu Tho Street, with fares starting from just 8,000 VND.

Traveller essentials

SIM card kiosks in the arrivals area offer competitive prices, though it's advisable to handle currency exchange sparingly at the airport due to less favorable rates. For more complex travel needs or family groups, local companies like Fast Track Vietnam offer bundled services, including a private car transfer.

Dining & shopping highlights

The dining scene is limited relative to Da Nang's vibrant city offerings. Popular spots at T1 include Burger King and KFC, while in T2 options like Puro Gusto and Highlands Coffee are available. Lucky Restaurant in T2 and Lucky Cafe in T1 are notable for their local flavors. On the shopping front, duty-free outlets like Airimex and Nasco offer international goods in T2, while both terminals host a range of souvenir shops and convenience stores, providing a mix of local crafts and international essentials.

Lounges

International travelers can find relief from the bustle in lounges located in T2. The Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge and the Orchid CIP Lounge are often recommended for their ample seating, Wi-Fi, showers, and basic but satisfying hot food options. T1 hosts the Vietjet Skyboss Lounge, which provides a quieter retreat for domestic travelers.

Insider tips

• Insider: For genuine local tastes and vibes, grab a banh mi and coffee at Lucky Cafe in T1 before heading through security.
• Money: Use Grab for transparent fares to Da Nang city center—usually 70,000–100,000 VND—much cheaper than some taxi offers.
• Time: If flying domestically from T1 during morning or evening peak times, arrive two hours early to avoid long security queues.
• Quiet: The Orchid CIP Lounge in T2 is a serene spot with better Wi-Fi and shower facilities compared to crowded gate areas.
• Local: Just minutes from the airport, the riverside cafés in Da Nang are perfect for a last-minute Vietnamese coffee with views.
• Money: Swap currency with care; airport exchange rates aren't as good as those in town, so change only what you need for immediate expenses.
• Time: If you have a long layover, consider a quick trip to My Khe Beach, just a 10-minute taxi ride from the airport.