DA NANG AMONG TOP OUTSTANDING DESTINATIONS FOR 2026 SELECTED BY AFAR

Da Nang has just been listed by AFAR, a leading American travel magazine, as one of the outstanding global destinations for 2026 — a positive signal reflecting the city’s growing appeal in the international tourism market.

AFAR describes Da Nang as “a rising coastal metropolis of Southeast Asia,” where visitors can find a rare harmony between nature, culture and modern urban life. This recognition further reinforces Da Nang’s position as the city continues to expand flight networks, attract international investment and diversify its tourism offerings.

The factors that elevate Da Nang on the global tourism map

AFAR highlights Da Nang for its rare blend of natural and urban elements: a lively coastline running along the city center, while Marble Mountains and Son Tra Peninsula create distinctive green spaces with pristine forests extending toward the sea. The close connection between sea – mountains – forest allows Da Nang to simultaneously meet diverse travel interests, from relaxation and eco-exploration to sports and cultural experiences.

Just a short distance from the city center, the Marble Mountains stand out with five limestone peaks interwoven with caves, ancient pagodas, and captivating natural scenery. (Source: Danang Fantasticity)

Son Tra Peninsula, with its coastal primary forest, serves as Da Nang’s “green lung,” home to many rare species — creating a destination that blends both a seaside city and a rich ecological landscape. (Source: Danang Fantasticity)

In addition to its natural advantages, Da Nang’s growing connectivity also contributes to its emergence as a new regional gateway. New flight routes launched in 2025 have linked the city directly with Bangkok, Manila, and many major Asian destinations, significantly improving accessibility for international travelers — a key criterion in AFAR’s evaluation.

In 2025, Emirates, Philippine Airlines and three other carriers launched new routes connecting Da Nang directly with Bangkok, Manila and several Asian destinations. (Source: Danang Fantasticity)

The rapid growth of the luxury resort market further strengthens Da Nang’s position. Upcoming projects such as Nobu and Mandarin Oriental, expected to debut in 2026, show how the city is evolving to attract high-spending visitors while opening a new development cycle for the tourism industry.

More than a beach city, Da Nang is also a convenient starting point for exploring the cultural heritage of Central Vietnam, including Hoi An, Hue and My Son. This connectivity adds depth to a visitor’s journey as they can easily combine relaxation with cultural and historical experiences — creating a compelling, well-rounded destination.

A hospitality ecosystem that helps travelers slow down their journey through Da Nang

Da Nang’s inclusion on AFAR’s list not only affirms its attractiveness, but also shows that the city has formed a sufficiently diverse lodging ecosystem for visitors to explore Central Vietnam at their own pace. Along the journey connecting sea – nature – heritage, beach resorts act as “gentle resting points,” helping travelers recharge between cultural, culinary or heritage-based experiences.

Located on the route linking Da Nang with Hoi An and My Son, Furama Resort Danang has become a familiar choice for those who wish to pair coastal relaxation with cultural discovery. Within a short drive, guests can move from My Khe Beach to Hoi An Ancient Town, or continue their journey into the valley of My Son; and upon returning, they find at the resort a balanced pause between the sea, culture, and modern comforts.

Furama Villas Danang – the perfect stop between the blue ocean and journeys to Hoi An and My Son

Beyond convenience of location, Furama creates a distinctive impression with activities rich in Vietnamese cultural identity — allowing international guests to experience local traditions right within the resort. Here, they can craft traditional Hội An-style lanterns, learn how to brew Vietnamese phin coffee, attend basic Vietnamese language classes, or join cocktail-making sessions inspired by Vietnamese flavors. These experiences are not staged performances, but Furama’s way of preserving cultural values within the rhythm of modern tourism.

Vietnamese cultural experiences at the resort: lantern-making, Vietnamese lessons, phin coffee, and locally inspired cocktails

Alongside cultural activities, the resort’s beachfront advantage enables Furama to offer signature experiences rarely found elsewhere: basket boat rowing, morning kayaking, or sunset SUP. These moments are both athletic and intimate, bringing visitors closer to the everyday relationship between Central Vietnamese people and the sea.

Ocean sports activities at Furama Resort & Villas Danang

Thanks to the combination of location, cultural depth and unique coastal experiences, Furama Resort & Villas Danang plays an important supporting role in Da Nang’s tourism ecosystem — a place where travelers can begin a heritage journey and also end the day in complete relaxation.