Da Lat

Da Lat Travel Guide

Da Lat is a charming mountain town known for its cool climate, pine-covered hills, vibrant flowers, and French colonial architecture. Often called “The City of Eternal Spring,” Da Lat offers a refreshing escape from Vietnam’s tropical heat, making it a favorite destination for locals and international travelers alike.

1. Best Time to Visit Da Lat

Da Lat’s temperate climate makes it a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience:

• November – March: Cool and dry, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C.
• April – June: Warm days with blooming flowers. Great for photography and nature lovers.
• July – October: Rainy season, but still enjoyable if you don’t mind occasional showers. The misty scenery adds a magical touch.

2. How to Get to Da Lat

By Air

• Lien Khuong Airport (DLI) is 30 km from Da Lat.
• Direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour), Hanoi (2 hours), and Da Nang (1.5 hours).
• Airport transfer options: shuttle bus (50,000 VND), taxi (250,000 – 350,000 VND), or Grab.

By Bus

• From Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC): 6-8 hours by sleeper bus (~250,000 VND). Popular companies: Phuong Trang (Futa Bus), Thanh Buoi.
• From Nha Trang: 4 hours (~150,000 VND).

By Motorbike or Car

• A scenic 6-hour drive from HCMC along Highway 20. Great for adventure seekers!

3. Getting Around Da Lat

• Motorbike Rental: 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day (best for exploring freely).
• Taxi/Grab: Affordable but limited in remote areas.
• Bicycle Rental: Available in some hotels for short distances.
• Walking: Perfect for the city center, but some attractions are far.

4. Top Attractions in Da Lat

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

• Xuan Huong Lake – A peaceful spot in the heart of the city, perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying a lakeside coffee.
• Tuyen Lam Lake – Stunning lake with boat tours, kayaking, and lakeside cafes.
• Lang Biang Mountain – A must-visit for hiking or taking a jeep ride to the summit for panoramic views.
• Datanla Waterfall – Famous for its thrilling alpine coaster ride and scenic waterfalls.
• Pongour Waterfall – One of Vietnam’s most beautiful waterfalls, about 50 km from Da Lat.

Historical & Cultural Landmarks

• Domaine de Marie Church – A pink French-style church with beautiful gardens.
• Linh Phuoc Pagoda – A spectacular pagoda made of mosaic glass and ceramics.
• Da Lat Railway Station – A charming French colonial train station with a short train ride to Trai Mat village.

Unique & Instagrammable Places

• Crazy House (Hang Nga Guesthouse) – A surreal, fairy-tale-like building full of winding tunnels and odd structures.
• Clay Tunnel (Da Lat Star) – A fascinating open-air sculpture park with giant clay statues depicting Da Lat’s history.
• Da Lat Flower Garden – A must-visit for flower lovers, especially during the Flower Festival.

Local Markets & Shopping

• Da Lat Night Market – A lively market with street food, souvenirs, and warm clothes.
• Van Thanh Flower Village – A local flower farm showcasing colorful blooms year-round.

5. Best Da Lat Foods to Try

Da Lat’s cuisine is unique, blending fresh ingredients from the region’s farms with Vietnamese and French influences. Here are the top dishes you must try:

Street Food & Local Delicacies

• Bánh tráng nướng (Vietnamese Pizza) – Grilled rice paper topped with egg, cheese, sausage, and herbs.
• Bánh căn – Mini crispy rice cakes with egg, served with sweet and sour fish sauce.
• Bún bò Huế Đà Lạt – A slightly milder version of the famous spicy beef noodle soup.
• Nem nướng – Grilled pork skewers served with fresh vegetables and rice paper.

Hot & Comfort Foods (Perfect for Cool Weather!)

• Lẩu gà lá é – Chicken hotpot with basil-like lá é leaves, a Da Lat specialty.
• Bò kho (Beef Stew) – Rich, fragrant beef stew served with bread or noodles.
• Soy Milk (Sữa đậu nành nóng) – A warm, sweet drink commonly sold at night markets.

6. Where to Stay in Da Lat

Da Lat offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.

Budget (Under $15/night)

• Tigon Dalat Hostel – Cozy, affordable, and centrally located.
• The Circle Vietnam – Unique tube-style rooms with mountain views.

Mid-Range ($15 – $50/night)

• Terracotta Hotel & Resort – Scenic views near Tuyen Lam Lake.
• Dalat Boutique Hotel – French-style rooms near the city center.

Luxury ($50+/night)

• Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa – A charming French villa resort with excellent service.
• Dalat Edensee Lake Resort & Spa – A tranquil lakeside retreat.

7. Da Lat Travel Tips

• Pack warm clothes – Even in summer, Da Lat gets chilly at night.
• Cash is king – Many small shops and markets don’t accept credit cards.
• Bargain at markets – Always negotiate prices at the night market.
• Start your day early – Attractions get crowded by noon.
• Be prepared for mist and rain – Bring a raincoat or umbrella, especially in rainy season.

8. Suggested 3-Day Da Lat Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration & Food Tour

• Morning: Xuan Huong Lake → Da Lat Railway Station → Linh Phuoc Pagoda
• Afternoon: Da Lat Flower Garden → Domaine de Marie Church → Crazy House
• Evening: Da Lat Night Market (try street food!)

Day 2: Nature & Adventure

• Morning: Lang Biang Mountain (hike or jeep tour)
• Afternoon: Tuyen Lam Lake → Datanla Waterfall (try the coaster ride!)
• Evening: Enjoy a hotpot dinner in the chilly weather

Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path & Relaxation

• Morning: Pongour Waterfall (50 km from Da Lat)
• Afternoon: Clay Tunnel → Coffee at a scenic mountain café
• Evening: Stroll around Hoa Binh area, shop for souvenirs

Da Lat is a perfect blend of nature, culture, adventure, and food. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a backpacking adventure, or a family trip, Da Lat has something for everyone.