A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Canberra for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Da Nang or Canberra?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Da Nang or Canberra? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Da Nang and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Da Nang or Canberra?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Canberra than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Canberra, Canberra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Canberra is better known for its museums & sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Da Nang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Also, Canberra is famous for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Da Nang different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Canberra and Da Nang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Canberra?

Da Nang
Canberra

Canberra is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.


Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Da Nang
Canberra

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Da Nang and Canberra.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Canberra has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang
Canberra

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Da Nang has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Resorts?

Da Nang
Canberra

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Canberra is not a resort destination.

Da Nang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Canberra is not a resort destination.


Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Beaches?

Da Nang
Canberra

Da Nang is a popular place for the beache. However, Canberra is not a beach destination.

Da Nang is a good option for a beach vacation. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Canberra is not a beach destination.

Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Da Nang
Canberra

Canberra is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Canberra?

Da Nang
Canberra

Canberra is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Canberra offers some nice shopping areas. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.


Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Families?

Da Nang
Canberra

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Da Nang or Canberra.

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Canberra. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Couples?

Da Nang
Canberra

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Da Nang
Canberra

Da Nang is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Da Nang. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.


Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Students?

Da Nang
Canberra

Canberra is a well-known place for students. However, Da Nang is not popular with students.

Canberra is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Da Nang is not popular with students.

Is Da Nang or Canberra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Da Nang
Canberra

Both Da Nang and Canberra offer notable public transit options.

Da Nang has a few public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Da Nang or Canberra a more walkable city?

Da Nang
Canberra

Canberra is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.


For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Da Nang and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Canberra than in Da Nang. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

Couples should spend more time in Da Nang than Canberra. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Da Nang that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Da Nang than Canberra if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Da Nang.


  • How many days in Da Nang or Canberra? Ideal Length of Stay
    Da Nang 1-2 
    Canberra 2-3

One day in Da Nang or Canberra?

The city of Da Nang offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Canberra, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Da Nang or Canberra?

Da Nang is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Da Nang, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Canberra, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Canberra has to offer.

Five days in Da Nang or Canberra?

Da Nang is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Canberra is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Da Nang or Canberra?

Da Nang is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Canberra or Da Nang?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Da Nang is $47, while the average daily cost in Canberra is $140. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Da Nang and Canberra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Da Nang $20
    Canberra $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Da Nang $40
    Canberra $172
Compare Hotels in Da Nang and Canberra

Looking for a hotel in Da Nang or Canberra? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Da Nang


Hotels in Canberra


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Da Nang Hotel Prices and Canberra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Da Nang $12
    Canberra $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Da Nang

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Da Nang:

  • Transfer from Danang to Ba Na hills get free to Marble mountains: $79
  • Transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An by Sedan or SUV: $15
  • Transfer from Da Nang airport to Hoi An by private cars: $16
  • Transfer Airport & Train Stations to Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An: $6.05
  • Shuttle Bus Transfer to MY SON HOLYLAND from Hoi An - Da Nang: $18
  • Round Trip Shared Bus Transfer from Da Nang to Ba Na Hills: $7.62
  • Private transfert from Da nang airport, railway station or Danang city to Hoi An: $22
  • Private transfer: Marble Mountains & Lady Buddha (Linh Ung): $38
  • Private transfer: Da Nang city to Hoi An Old Town (2-way): $17
  • Private transfer from Hue to Da Nang & Hoi An or vice versa: $50
  • Private transfer from Danang to Ba Na hills and Lotus Farm 2 ways: $31
  • Private transfer Between Hoian/Da Nang and Hue city: $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

Also for Canberra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $35
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $70
  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $84
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $84
  • Canberra Transfer: Airport(CBR)to/from City Center: $100
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $122

Is it cheaper to fly into Da Nang or Canberra?

Prices for flights to both Canberra and Da Nang change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Da Nang $17
    Canberra $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Da Nang

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Da Nang.

  • Dragon bridge show and Da Nang local food tour: $4.20
  • Explore Ba Na Hill, Golden Bridge in the sunset with dinner: $9.24
  • Coffee Making and Cooking Class: $17
  • Da Nang free motorbike and food tour: $20
  • Half Day Ba Na Hills – Golden bridge with Vietnamese Dinner: $21
  • Da Nang Family Cooking Class - with Local Family in Da Nang: $23
  • Da Nang Cooking: Market tour, farming, cooking and foot bath: $25
  • Vegetarian Cooking class and Basket Boat Riding: $25
  • Experience Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Class in Da Nang : $25
  • Happy Cooking Class in Danang : $26
  • Experience Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Class in Da Nang : $27
  • Private Traditional Cooking Class and Pho with Local Girl : $29

Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Da Nang $14
    Canberra $18

Tours and Activities in Da Nang

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Da Nang are as follows:

  • Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge Full-Day Tour: $74
  • DA NANG CITY SUNSET - Private Guided Tour : $92
  • Experience Hoi an Rural Eco Tour from Da Nang or Hoi An city: $76
  • GOLDEN BRIDGE BA NA HILLS & MARBLE MOUNTAIN -Private Guided Tour: $148
  • Golden Bridge- Early Departure & Marble Mountains- Private Tour: $133
  • HOI AN COUNTRYSIDE EXPERIENCE LIFE TOUR to Understand about Hoi An Life: $75
  • Hoi An or Danang to Hue via Hai Van Pass Tour: $59
  • HoiAn Walking Tour with RiverBoat-Night Market-Colourful Lantern: $77
  • INSTAGRAM Tour - Da Nang & Hoi An city Private Tour ( 11 Hours): $140
  • MARBLE MOUNTAIN, LADY BUDDHA STATUE & HAI VAN PASS, LAP AN LAGOON(Private Tour): $92
  • Marble Mountains - Hoi An Ancient Town Afternoon Tours FROM DANANG(15H30-21H): $34
  • My Son Holyland & Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills- Private Guided Tour: $169

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Australians Tour | 3pm Daily: $14
  • Museum Highlights Tour | 1pm Daily: $14
  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $14
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $15
  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $31
  • Badass Women of The Women Behind the Capital Tour: $41
  • Spies in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour: $41
  • Women's History Walking Tour with Local Guide: $42
  • LGBTQIA+ History Walking Tour: $42
  • Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines: $45
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $92
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Da Nang $9.55
    Canberra $16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.59

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Indulgence Wine Tasting with Matched Elements for 2 - Canberra: $91
  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $102
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $126
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $129
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $153
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $167
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $171
  • Premium Wine Tasting Experience and 2-Course Lunch: $188


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Da Nang and Canberra, we can see that Canberra is more expensive. And not only is Da Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Da Nang is in Asia and Canberra is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Da Nang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Da Nang and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Canberra would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Canberra than you might in Da Nang.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Da Nang Expensive? and Is Canberra Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Canberra?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Canberra, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Da Nang or Canberra?

Canberra has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Da Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Da Nang or Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra and Da Nang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

Da Nang is a little warmer than Canberra in the summer. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

Da Nang usually gets less rain in July than Canberrain January. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year. January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Da Nang 29°C (85°F) 
    Canberra 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Da Nang or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Canberra. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Da Nang is a little warmer than Canberra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Da Nang in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Canberra averages at about 17°C (63°F)in April.

Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Canberrain April. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Da Nang 25°C (78°F) 
    Canberra 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Da Nang or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Canberra. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Da Nang is generally much warmer than Canberrain July. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 22°C (71°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the winter. Da Nang usually gets more rain in January than Canberrain July. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Da Nang 22°C (71°F) 
    Canberra 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Da Nang or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months.

Da Nang is much warmer than Canberra in the spring. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in October.

In April, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Canberrain October. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Da Nang 26°C (80°F) 
    Canberra 15°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Canberra and Da Nang

Da Nang Canberra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 22°C (71°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 24°C (75°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Apr 26°C (80°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 29°C (85°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Aug 29°C (85°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 331 mm (13 in) 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 25°C (78°F) 613 mm (24.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 24°C (76°F) 376 mm (14.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 23°C (73°F) 223 mm (8.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)