Da Nang
Founded in 1888 and called Tourane by the French, Da Nang is Vietnam's third international gateway, and is now the main city in central Vietnam.
Da Nang is a seaport of endless stretches of unspoiled sandy beach midway between Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City. The city was also the centre of civilization of the Champa Kingdom, a kingdom which flourished in the area as early as the 2nd century A.D. Stone sculptures (from the 4th-14th centuries) of Vishnu, Shiva and other Gods of this Kingdom can still be found in the Cham museum located in the centre of the city.
Towards the coast south of Da Nang are five large hills known as the Marble Mountain. With its own international and domestic airport, Da Nang provides an ideal stopover base for excursions to the ancient town of Hoi An, and the imperial city of Hue.
