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

Should you visit Da Nang or Nara?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Nara? 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Da Nang travel costs.

Nara

Nara is a traditional, tranquil, and natural city. Nara is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nara travel costs.

Da Nang and Nara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Nara?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nara than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Nara, Nara has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nara is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is more popular for its food, resorts, and beaches. Nara is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer. Also, Nara is famous for Nara Park. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nara 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 Nara?

Nara 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.

Nara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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 Nara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Da Nang is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for Nightlife?

Both Da Nang and Nara are high quality when it comes to partying.

Da Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Nara has a large number of nightlife venues. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is notable for its resorts. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a popular place for the beach. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a popular place for its old town. However, Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Nara to see the old town. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for Hiking?

Nara is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Nara is a popular spot for hiking. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Nara?

Nara is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Nara is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

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 Nara More Beautiful?

Nara is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nara is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with green space, parks, and natural areas. You'll find deer roaming freely and tranquil lawns where you can relax.

Da Nang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for Families?

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

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 Nara. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

Is Da Nang or Nara Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Da Nang and Nara make for a high quality place to visit.

Da Nang is a very popular place to visit for couples. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Nara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

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

Both Da Nang and Nara are notable destinations 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.

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

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

Nara is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nara can get you around easily. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

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

Is Da Nang or Nara a more walkable city?

Nara is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Nara is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

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 Nara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nara or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Nara?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Da Nang or Nara to fill your time. In our opinion, Nara has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nara than Da Nang. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nara than Da Nang 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 Nara.

One day in Da Nang or Nara?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Da Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Nara, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Da Nang or Nara?

Da Nang is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Da Nang or Nara?

You'll find food and museums around the authentic destination of Da Nang. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nara is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Nara?

The accessible city of Da Nang offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nara. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nara. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Da Nang and Nara, we can see that Nara is more expensive. And not only is Da Nang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Nara would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nara 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 Nara Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Nara?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nara. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Nara, 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 Nara?

Nara 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 Nara in the Summer?

Both Nara and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nara this time of year.

Da Nang is around the same temperature as Nara in the summer. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Nara fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually receives more sunshine than Nara during summer. Da Nang gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. In July, Da Nang usually receives less rain than Nara. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Da Nang is January to July. The rainy season in Da Nang is August to December.

Should I visit Da Nang or Nara in the Autumn?

Both Nara and Da Nang during the autumn 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, many travelers come to Nara for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Da Nang often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nara. Da Nang gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. Da Nang usually gets more rain in October than Nara. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Nara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Nara. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nara in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nara can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Da Nang is generally much warmer than Nara. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 22°C (71°F), and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Da Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nara during winter. Da Nang gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Nara. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. January to July in Da Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Nara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Nara. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Nara for the natural beauty during these months.

Da Nang is much warmer than Nara in the spring. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Nara fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Da Nang this time of the year. In the spring, Da Nang often gets more sunshine than Nara. Da Nang gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nara. Da Nang usually gets less rain in April than Nara. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nara and Da Nang