Nguyen Van Troi Bridge Da Nang: Location, Things to Do & Travel Guide

Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is one of Da Nang’s most historic landmarks and the first bridge ever built across the Han River. Today, this iconic yellow bridge has been transformed into a peaceful pedestrian-only walkway, offering a quiet escape from the city’s busy modern bridges like Dragon Bridge and Han River Bridge. Rich in history and local charm, it’s a favorite spot for sunset walks and authentic city views. In this GTrip guide, discover the history of Nguyen Van Troi Walking Bridge, what to see, and useful tips for visiting.

Overview of Nguyen Van Troi Bridge in Da Nang City

Before we dive into the amazing experiences awaiting you, let’s get a clear overview of this historic landmark and what makes it a must-visit spot on your Da Nang itinerary.

Where is the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge in Da Nang City?

Location:

• West side: Hoa Cuong Ward (formerly Hoa Cuong Bac Ward, Hai Chau District), Da Nang City
• East side: Ngu Hanh Son Ward (formerly My An Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District), Da Nang City

The Nguyen Van Troi Bridge serves as a vital historical link across the Han River, connecting two major districts of Da Nang. It runs parallel to the modern, sail-shaped Tran Thi Ly Bridge, making it an easy-to-spot landmark on the city's riverfront. Its central location makes it readily accessible from both the city center and the popular beach areas.

When is the best time to visit Nguyen Van Troi Bridge?

Thanks to Da Nang's tropical climate, the bridge is a wonderful destination year-round. However, the experience changes dramatically depending on the time of day you visit.

• Early morning (5:00 AM - 7:00 AM): This is the most serene time. Join locals for a morning jog or gentle stroll as you watch a breathtaking sunrise over the city skyline. The air is fresh, the light is soft, and the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful.
• Sunset (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM): The "golden hour" is arguably the most magical time. The bridge's yellow frame glows beautifully as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It's a photographer's dream and a perfect spot for romantic moments.
• Evening (7:00 PM onwards): After dark, the bridge comes alive in a different way. Its modern LED lighting system illuminates the structure, and the surrounding city lights create a dazzling panorama. It's a popular hangout spot for young people, often with impromptu acoustic music sessions.

What makes Nguyen Van Troi Bridge unique?

In a city defined by its spectacular modern bridges, the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge stands out for its humble, historic charm.

• A piece of living history: It was the first bridge ever built across the Han River, making it an invaluable piece of Da Nang's heritage. Walking across it feels like stepping back in time.
• A pedestrian paradise: In 2015, it was converted into the first Da Nang Walking Bridge. Free from the noise of traffic, it offers a tranquil sanctuary for strolling, jogging, and simply soaking in the views.
• Nostalgic and photogenic: Its iconic golden-yellow Poni truss frame provides a stunning, vintage contrast to the sleek, modern architecture surrounding it. It’s one of the most unique and beloved photo spots in the city.

Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is beloved for its historic soul, pedestrian-only charm, and nostalgic golden truss design that contrasts beautifully with Da Nang’s modern skyline

History of Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

The Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is more than just a river crossing. It is a profound symbol of Da Nang's history and resilience. Constructed in 1965 by the American firm RMK, it holds the distinguished title of being the first bridge spanning the Han River. Its original purpose was purely logistical: to serve as a military supply line connecting the airport on the west bank to the American bases on the east bank. For nearly four decades, this steel truss bridge was the primary artery for transport and commerce in a rapidly growing city. Before its construction, the two sides of the river were connected only by ferries.

The bridge’s creation marked a pivotal moment in Da Nang's urban development, paving the way for the dynamic, connected metropolis we see today. After being decommissioned for vehicle traffic, it was lovingly preserved and repurposed as a pedestrian walkway, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations to appreciate.

Architecture of Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

The architecture of the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is a beautiful exercise in functional, mid-century design that tells a story of its era. The bridge is composed of a series of distinctive Poni truss steel frames, a common and highly durable design for its time. This structure, lacking the grand pylons or suspension cables of its neighbors, gives it a low, grounded, and unmistakably historic profile.

Its most iconic feature is the vibrant golden-yellow paint that covers its entire 500-meter length, making it glow warmly in the sunlight and stand out as a cheerful landmark against the blue sky and water. This simple, utilitarian design forms a powerful visual contrast with the soaring, sail-like arch of the adjacent Tran Thi Ly Bridge and the undulating form of the distant Dragon Bridge. It stands not as a competitor to these modern marvels, but as their respected ancestor, a testament to a simpler time in engineering and a cherished relic of Da Nang's past.

The Nguyen Van Troi Bridge features simple yet durable Poni truss steel frames and a low, grounded profile, with its iconic golden-yellow paint

Things to do around Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

Once you arrive, you’ll find that the bridge and its surrounding area offer a wealth of relaxing and memorable activities, perfect for any traveler.

1. Enjoy a relaxing walk on Nguyen Van Troi Bridge - Panoramic views of the Han River

The primary joy of the Nguyen Van Troi Walking Bridge is the simple pleasure of walking across it. Free from the roar of traffic, you can take a leisurely stroll from one end to the other, a distance of about 500 meters. As you walk, you’re treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Han River and the ever-evolving Da Nang skyline. Look north to see the iconic Dragon Bridge and the classic Han River Swing Bridge in the distance. To your south, the vast expanse of the river opens up. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to see the city from a unique, human-paced perspective and capture some truly stunning photographs of urban and natural beauty coexisting.

Walking across the traffic-free Nguyen Van Troi Walking Bridge offers a relaxed stroll with panoramic views of the Han River, Dragon Bridge, and Da Nang skyline

2. Sunrise & sunset check-in - The most peaceful golden moments in Da Nang

For photographers and lovers of natural beauty, the bridge is an absolute must-visit during the "golden hours". Arrive before dawn to witness a spectacular sunrise, as the first rays of light illuminate the city and cast a soft glow on the water. In the late afternoon, the bridge transforms into one of the city's best sunset viewpoints. The setting sun ignites the sky with fiery colors and bathes the bridge’s yellow frame in warm, golden light. This peaceful atmosphere, combined with the stunning visuals, creates a truly magical and romantic experience that feels a world away from the urban energy.

3. Watch the Dragon Bridge fire & Water show from afar

While most crowds gather directly at the Dragon Bridge for its famous weekend show, the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge offers a fantastic alternative viewpoint. The show takes place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:00 PM sharp. From your vantage point on the walking bridge, approximately 1 - 1.5 km away, you get a wider, more complete view of the spectacle. You can see the fiery dragon head silhouetted against the glittering city lights, followed by plumes of water arcing into the night sky. It's a less crowded, more relaxed way to enjoy one of Da Nang’s signature attractions, offering a unique perspective for photos and a more tranquil viewing experience.

You can watch the fire and water show of Dragon Bridge from afar

4. Experience the night atmosphere with LED lights & Acoustic music on the bridge

As evening descends upon Da Nang, the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge takes on a new, vibrant personality. The entire structure is fitted with a modern, energy-efficient LED lighting system that casts a beautiful glow on its historic frame without overpowering the ambiance. This is when the bridge truly becomes a local hub. Groups of friends and young couples gather to chat, relax, and enjoy the cool river breeze. It's very common to find talented local musicians playing acoustic guitars and singing, filling the air with a chill, melodic soundtrack. This blend of historic architecture, modern lighting, and live music creates a uniquely charming and laid-back atmosphere.

5. Chill picnic on the east bank of the Han River - Open green space at the bridgbase

One of the best local secrets is the lovely public park located at the eastern foot of the bridge, in the former Ngu Hanh Son District. This open green space is the perfect spot for a casual picnic. Grab some delicious Vietnamese street food or snacks from a nearby vendor, find a comfortable spot on the grass, and settle in for a relaxing afternoon or evening. From here, you can enjoy fantastic views of the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge itself, the adjacent Tran Thi Ly Bridge, and the bustling activity on the Han River. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, enjoy the local atmosphere, and soak in the beautiful scenery.

You can go picnic on the east bank of the Han River near the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

6. Enjoy Han River-view coffee along Duy Tan Street or Tran Hung Dao Street

Da Nang’s vibrant cafe culture is on full display along the banks of the Han River. Flanking the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge are numerous coffee shops that offer spectacular views. On the west bank, explore the cafes along Duy Tan Street for a close-up perspective of the bridge’s structure. On the east bank, the bustling Tran Hung Dao Street is lined with trendy spots where you can sip on a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee while watching boats drift by on the river. It’s the perfect way to take a break from sightseeing, enjoy a refreshing drink, and absorb the city’s dynamic riverside energy.

7. Explore nearby attractions within walking distance

The bridge's central location makes it an excellent starting point for a walking tour of several other key attractions. After your stroll, you can easily wander to nearby points of interest.

• Take a short walk north along the river to Bach Dang Walking Street and the iconic APEC Park, where you'll find striking sculptures, lively street food stalls, and often live music and dance performances in the evening.
• Just steps away from the west end of the bridge is the renowned Museum of Cham Sculpture, home to the world's largest collection of artifacts from the ancient Champa kingdom.
• A little further north, you can visit the famous Love Lock Bridge and the Dragon Carp Statue, two of Da Nang's most popular photo spots.

Near the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge are many famous spots that you can visit

How to get to Nguyen Van Troi Bridge?

Finding your way to the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is incredibly easy. Thanks to its central location, nestled right beside the prominent Tran Thi Ly Bridge, it’s a simple journey from almost anywhere in Da Nang or even from nearby Hoi An.

From Da Nang International Airport

Getting to the bridge from the airport is quick and convenient with the following details:

• The journey from Da Nang International Airport is short and straightforward, making the bridge an excellent first or last stop on your trip. The airport is only about 5 km away from the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge.
• A trip by taxi or a ride-hailing service like Grab will take approximately 10 - 15 minutes, with fares typically ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 VND, depending on traffic conditions.
• To get there, simply follow Duy Tan Street east from the airport toward the city center. You can't miss the bridge, located directly adjacent to the large, white Tran Thi Ly Bridge.

From Da Nang City center

Depending on where you are staying in the city, you can choose from these simple routes:

• If you're starting from the west side of the Han River, near the former Hoa Cuong Ward or the city center, the drive is typically less than 15 minutes by car or motorbike.
• Coming from the popular My Khe Beach area on the east bank, travel along the main coastal road, Vo Nguyen Giap Street, heading toward the Dragon Bridge. From there, continue south along the riverfront (Tran Hung Dao Street) for about 2 km. This scenic drive usually takes 10 - 20 minutes.
• For those staying further south near Non Nuoc Beach, you should allow for a 20 - 30 minute journey along the coastline to reach the bridge.

From Hoi An

 If you are planning a day trip from the ancient town, here are the most efficient ways to reach the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge:

• A day trip from the charming ancient town of Hoi An is a fantastic idea, and the bridge is a great destination. The distance is approximately 30 km, and the travel time is around one hour by motorbike.
• Consider stopping at the magnificent Marble Mountains along the way, as they are located directly on the route.
• There are two primary motorbike routes you can take:
  • Route 1: Hoi An → Lac Long Quan Street → Truong Sa Street → Vo Nguyen Giap Street → Nguyen Van Thoai Street → Nguyen Van Troi Bridge
  • Route 2: Hoi An → Nguyen Tat Thanh Street → Le Van Hien Street → Ngu Hanh Son Street → Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

The way to the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is very easy

Crossing the bridge

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, please keep these access guidelines in mind:

• It is crucial to remember that the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. No motorbikes or cars are permitted on the bridge deck itself, which is what makes it such a peaceful experience.
• You will need to park your vehicle nearby and approach on foot.
• The main access points are located at the base of the bridge on both sides of the river, near the intersections of major roads:
  • West bank: Approach from 2/9 Street or Duy Tan Street.
  • East bank: Approach from Ngu Hanh Son Street or Nguyen Van Thoai Street.

Transportation options

There are three main ways to get around Da Nang and reach this historic landmark:

• Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is the most popular, flexible, and affordable way to explore Da Nang. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Rental costs are very reasonable, typically around 100,000 - 150,000 VND/day.
• Grab/Taxi: For a convenient and hassle-free option, especially if you're traveling in a group or during the heat of the day, using a taxi or a ride-hailing app like Grab is a great choice.
• Bicycle: If you are staying nearby in the downtown area or along the riverbank, renting a bicycle is a wonderful and eco-friendly way to reach and enjoy the Da Nang Walking Bridge.

Other attractions near Nguyen Van Troi Bridge Da Nang

The Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is perfectly situated to act as a hub for exploring some of Da Nang's most famous landmarks. Many are just a short walk or a very quick drive away.

• APEC Park (100 m): Located right at the base of the bridge, this modern park is a must-see.
• Tran Thi Ly Bridge (200 m): The modern, sail-shaped bridge running parallel offers a great architectural contrast.
• Dragon Bridge (400 m): The world-famous fire-breathing dragon is just a few hundred meters north.
• Museum of Cham Sculpture (400 m): An essential stop for history and culture enthusiasts.
• Ho Chi Minh Museum & Fifth Military Zone Museum (700 m): A short walk away for those interested in Vietnam's modern history.

You can relax at the APEC Park after visiting the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

Tips for visiting Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

To make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible, keep these expert tips from GTrip in mind.

• Seasonal essentials: Da Nang's weather varies. In the dry season (February to late August), the sun is strong, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water. During the rainy season (September to January), it’s wise to pack a rain poncho, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes.
• Accessibility: The flat, wide deck of the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive attraction for all visitors to enjoy.
• Cash payment: While larger establishments accept cards, many of the small drink and snack vendors in the surrounding area operate on a cash-only basis. Be sure to carry some Vietnamese Dong (VND).
• Photography services: You may sometimes find local photographers offering their services on the bridge, especially during peak tourist season or on weekends, but this is not guaranteed.
• Best time to visit: While any time is great, the evening offers a particularly special experience as the city lights up and a cool breeze comes off the river.
• Dress code: There is no dress code, wear whatever is comfortable for walking.

Remember essential tips to have a good trip to Nguyen Van Troi Bridge

Beyond its steel frame and golden paint, the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge is the keeper of Da Nang’s memories. While other bridges may impress with bold designs and nightly shows, this humble walking bridge captures the heart. It offers a rare chance to slow down and experience an authentic piece of the city’s soul. Discover it with GTrip through inspiring Da Nang tours.