Golden Bridge & Dragon Bridge Shore Excursion from Chan May

Summary

Private Cable Car Tour: Ba Na Hills & Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge

You’ll ride Southeast Asia’s most modern cable car up to Vietnam’s famous Golden Bridge—yes, the one with giant hands—then explore Da Nang’s lively streets and see its iconic Dragon Bridge up close. It’s a full day of local sights and flavors, all timed so you’re back at your ship with time to spare.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air felt a bit cool when we stepped off the ship at Chan May port—just enough to wake you up. Our guide was right there with a sign (easy to spot, even before my first coffee). The drive out toward Ba Na Hills rolled past rice paddies and small roadside cafés where locals were already sipping their iced coffees. It took about an hour, but the scenery kept changing—mountains in the distance, flashes of bright bougainvillea along the road.

I’d heard about the Golden Bridge before, but nothing really prepares you for that first sight. We hopped on the cable car—the smoothest ride I’ve ever had—and watched as mist drifted over the treetops below. Up top, the bridge really does look like it’s being held by two giant stone hands. The wood underfoot felt solid and warm from the sun, and you could see all the way down to Da Nang city if you leaned over just a bit (not for the faint-hearted). Our guide shared a few facts: 148 meters long, built with Merawan Giaza wood, and those handrails? They actually glint gold in the sunlight.

Lunch was a buffet—lots of local dishes I couldn’t pronounce but definitely enjoyed. Afterward, we drove into Da Nang itself. The city’s got this clean, modern vibe but still feels relaxed. At Dragon Bridge, traffic zipped by while people snapped photos. Our guide explained how locals believe dragons bring luck—a tradition going back centuries. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a weekend night, you might even catch it breathing fire and water (we missed it by a day!).

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Golden Bridge & Dragon Bridge Tour

• Ride modern Cable Car
• Visit Golden Bridge with giant hands
• See Dragon Bridge, Da Nang symbol

Top questions

How much walking is involved on this tour?

There’s some walking at Ba Na Hills and across Golden Bridge, but it’s mostly flat paths. Wear comfy shoes—you’ll want them for exploring.

Will I be back at my cruise ship on time?

Yes! We always plan to get you back at least an hour before your ship departs—no stress about missing departure.

Are meals included?

Yes, a buffet lunch is included at Ba Na Hills with plenty of local options (and some familiar ones too).

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Absolutely—it’s stroller-friendly and works for most fitness levels. Just let us know if you have special needs.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport from port to all sites and back again, bottled water for the road, entry tickets for both Ba Na Hills cable car and attractions, an English-speaking guide who knows their stuff, port fees covered, plus that buffet lunch everyone talks about.