Toward Local field guide · Central Vietnam & the Highlands
Beyond Da Nang
Seven places worth the journey from Da Nang: Hue, Phong Nha, Quy Nhon, Phu Yen, Ly Son, Buon Ma Thuot and Da Lat. For each one, the facts, the food, the reasons to go, what to do when you get there, and the small things locals know.
Da Nang is the start. The road is the story.
Facts checked
At a glance
The seven, side by side
Travel times from Da Nang, where most journeys through the centre begin. The numbers match the map and the chapters below.
When to go
Season by season
The coast and the highlands run on opposite calendars. On the coast the rain comes from September to December; up in the highlands the wet months are May to October.
Since 1 July 2025
New names on the map
Vietnam merged its provinces from 63 to 34 and scrapped districts. Signs, menus and older maps still use the old names, while bookings, invoices and Google Maps increasingly show the new ones. On addresses you will see phuong (ward), xa (commune), dac khu (special zone), tinh (province) and TP. (city).
Heading beyond Da Nang? Ask a local host.
Toward Local runs private tours in Da Nang and Hoi An, where most trips through the centre begin or end. For Hue, the caves, the coast and the highlands, message us with your dates and we will share what we know about routes, seasons and where to stay.