Cool Things to Do in DaLat:
Explore Vietnam's Romantic Mountain Retreat

  • Written by Roi Alfassi
  • Updated October 2025

Da Lat is one of Vietnam’s most popular resort destinations. Nestled in a mountainous region, its cool and refreshing climate offers a welcome escape from the sweltering lowlands. Visitors to Da Lat will discover a romantic city surrounded by breathtaking scenery — crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, scenic mountain trails, and minority villages where the locals are known for their warm hospitality.

Introduction

Da Lat (Đà Lạt) is surrounded by stunning scenery — lakes, villages, waterfalls, forests, and beautiful gardens. Travelers come to this cool, mountainous city to escape the heavy tropical heat, while locals often choose it as a romantic honeymoon destination. Located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat’s landscape is dramatically different from the rest of the country, and there’s something about its charm that captures you from the very first moment. Take a few days to explore the city and its surroundings, and you’ll understand why it’s one of Vietnam’s most beloved resort destinations.

Where to Stay

Da Lat offers dozens of hotels and guesthouses scattered across the city. Most backpacker-friendly accommodations are located between the central market and the lake, especially along Phan Dinh Phung, Ba Thang Hai, and Hai Thuong streets (the latter across from Bệnh Viện Tỉnh Lâm Đồng Hospital). Despite the competition, prices here are slightly higher than in other parts of Vietnam. Almost every hotel provides Wi-Fi, laundry services, travel agencies, and motorbike or bicycle rentals. During peak season — especially on weekends — hotels tend to fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book in advance.

Dreams Hotel – This hotel is slightly above the average backpacker budget, but it’s impossible to ignore the many glowing reviews. It’s popular among Israeli and European travelers thanks to its high standard for the price, friendly and helpful owners, and excellent location — close to restaurants and just a short walk from the central market. The hotel operates two nearby buildings, both offering free internet in the lobby, Wi-Fi in the rooms, various tourist services, and even a sauna and jacuzzi. A basic double room starts at $20, including breakfast.
Address: 151 & 164B Phan Đình Phùng St

Thien An Hotel – A small, simple, and clean hotel with a restaurant where breakfast is included in the room rate. The staff is friendly, and rooms come with a TV, minibar, hot water, and Wi-Fi. It’s very popular among backpackers. Prices range from $15–$25 per double room.
Address: 272A Phan Đình Phùng

Peace Guest House – A basic, old, and budget-friendly guesthouse offering simple rooms, some with shared bathrooms. There’s a nice café on the ground floor and free Wi-Fi. Rooms cost around $7–$10.
Address: 64 Truong Cong Dinh St.

Dalat Memory Inn – An excellent hotel located slightly south of the city center on a quiet, pleasant street. The hotel is new, with spacious and comfortable rooms that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. If you don’t want to compromise on comfort during your stay in Da Lat, this is a great choice offering excellent value for money. Additional amenities include laundry service, Wi-Fi, and motorbike rentals. Prices range from $12–$15 per double room.
Address: Đường Đào Duy Từ, Phường 3

Phuong Thanh – A small hotel with only a few rooms and very friendly owners. It’s centrally located, close to restaurants and other hotels. The rooms are basic but nicely designed, spacious, and comfortable. It’s also quite affordable, with prices ranging from $6–$15 per room.
Address: 65 Truong Cong Dinh St.

Nice Dream Hotel – A simple and affordable hotel offering friendly service and a great location on one of the city’s main streets, close to many restaurants. The rooms are generally good, but it’s worth checking the options before booking, as some rooms lack windows and can feel less pleasant. Average prices for Da Lat range between $12–$18 per room.
Address: 34 Hai Ba Trung

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Authentic Homestay – Run by Juan, an Easy Rider (see nearby attractions), this homestay welcomes travelers into a family home that also serves as a guesthouse. Stays include both breakfast and dinner, and guests praise the excellent service, warm atmosphere, and overall authentic experience. The next morning, you can even book a local motorcycle tour with Juan himself.
Address: To Vinh Dien Street, Ward 7, Da Lat City 15

Where to Eat

Da Lat offers plenty of dining options — most restaurants serve local Vietnamese dishes, while some also offer Western food (though not always successfully). The main tourist restaurants are concentrated along Phan Dinh Phung and Ba Thang Hai streets, near the hotels, while authentic local eateries can be found throughout the city.

V Café – A long-established and popular café located near the central lake. It serves great food (including a wide selection of Western dishes), tempting desserts, and features good music and live performances every evening. The café also offers Wi-Fi, delivery service, and attracts a lively crowd of travelers. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
Address: 1/1 Bui Thi Xuan

Au Lac – A vegetarian restaurant known for its excellent meat substitutes that will make you question whether you’re really in a vegetarian place. The local dishes are fantastic, and the fresh spring rolls are particularly recommended — so much so that many diners return several times during their stay in Da Lat.
Address: 15 Phan Đình Phùng

Hoa Sen – Another vegetarian restaurant offering delicious local dishes at very reasonable prices compared to others. Many travelers — even non-vegetarians — recommend it.
Address: 62 Phan Dinh Phung

Trong Dong – A great local restaurant serving authentic Vietnamese food at average prices. As in many places across the country, portions tend to be small, but the service is friendly. Try their Hot Pot soups, which are especially good.
Address: 220 D Phan Dinh Phung

Street Food Stalls – At the end of Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street, near the central market, around the roundabout and on the adjacent staircase, dozens of food stalls and plastic chairs appear every evening. You’ll find tasty and quick local dishes — plenty of noodles and seafood — at prices ranging from 20,000–40,000 VND per dish. The experience is lively and authentic, though English is limited, and don’t be surprised if, mid-meal, you have to stand up quickly as police patrols arrive and the vendors rush to clear their chairs and tables — only to return once the coast is clear. Be mindful of hygiene.

What to Do at Night

The French brought wine culture to Da Lat, and since then a local wine industry has developed — definitely worth a taste while you’re here.

Maze Bar – One of the coolest and most unique spots in Da Lat — an absolute must-visit. Once you enter Maze Bar, order a drink, and start exploring, you’ll embark on a journey into another world. Built into a hillside, the bar spans multiple levels and is designed as a labyrinth, full of twists, turns, and hidden corners that might just get you lost (in the best way possible).

The maze winds through cozy nooks where you can stop to enjoy your drink before continuing your adventure. Eventually, you’ll reach the rooftop, where you can look out over Da Lat’s sparkling night lights and feel the cool mountain breeze on your face. It’s a truly special and memorable experience.
Address: 57 Phan Bội Châu, Phường 1

HNL – A pleasant venue featuring an indoor karaoke lounge (pay-per-song) where you can order drinks. There’s also a small restaurant serving both Vietnamese and some Western dishes. Reviews on the food are mixed, but the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. The bar closes at 10:30 PM.
Address: 94 Phan Dinh Phung

V Café – In addition to being one of the best places to eat in Da Lat (see the “Where to Eat” section), V Café also offers live music every evening and a pool table. It closes at 10:30 PM, staying open a bit later on weekends.
Address: 1/1 Bui Thi Xuan

Larry’s Bar & Le Rabelais Bar – For a more elegant and upscale night out, head to the two bars inside the Dalat Palace Hotel. Larry’s Bar, located in the basement, has an American-style vibe with billiards, video games, TV screens, and a Western menu. Le Rabelais Bar, found in the hotel lobby, is small and intimate with only about 20 seats, a fireplace, and occasional live performances by a pianist or violinist.
Address: 12 Tran Phu, Dalat Palace Hotel

The Hangout Bar – A lively bar that stays open past midnight, popular among young travelers. Expect great music, a relaxed vibe, billiards, and other games — a fun place to meet people and enjoy Da Lat’s more social side.
Address: 71 Truong Cong Dinh

 

Attractions in the City

While most of Da Lat’s highlights are found outside the city, there’s still plenty to see and do within the city limits — especially if you enjoy a touch of kitsch. After all, Da Lat is known as Vietnam’s most romantic city.

Xuan Huong Lake – Located right in the city center, this large artificial lake stretches for about 7 kilometers. Around the lake, you’ll find several fun activities such as paddle boating, cycling, or horse-drawn carriage rides. It’s a beautiful place for a stroll, especially at sunset.

Flower Festival – Every two years, Da Lat hosts a grand and colorful Flower Festival. If you don’t happen to visit during the festival, you can still explore the Flower Garden at the northern end of the lake. It’s not spectacular, but pleasant for a short visit if you’re nearby. Entry costs about 20,000 VND and it’s located atop Top-peg Hill.

Cremaillere Railway & Linh Phuoc Pagoda – About 500 meters east of the lake lies the Cremaillere Railway, a historical train line that once connected Da Lat to surrounding towns. Today, visitors can take a scenic ride to the impressive Linh Phuoc Pagoda, located 8 km from the lake (you can also get there by motorbike or taxi). The round-trip train ride takes about an hour, with a 30-minute stop at the pagoda. Tickets cost 75,000–100,000 VND, and trains depart roughly every two hours.

The “Crazy House” (Hang Nga Guesthouse & Art Gallery) – One of Da Lat’s most unusual attractions. Designed by a local architect, this surreal building features rooms shaped like caves, animals, and spider webs. You can even stay overnight in one of the bizarrely themed rooms. Entrance costs around 30,000 VND, and room rates range from $20–$80 per night. A must-see for anyone curious about the city’s quirky side.
Address: Huỳnh Thúc Kháng, Phường 4

Bao Dai’s Summer Palace – Located near the Crazy House, this elegant French-style villa was built in the 1930s and once served as the summer residence of Emperor Bao Dai, Vietnam’s last monarch. Inside, you can see royal artifacts and art pieces. Worth visiting if you enjoy palaces and history; otherwise, it can be skipped. Entry costs 20,000 VND.

Valley of Love (Thung Lũng Tình Yêu) – A few kilometers north of Xuan Huong Lake lies this whimsical attraction, which has become a staple of local tours. You can take kitschy photos with “Vietnamese cowboys,” rent a swan boat or canoe, and enjoy the overly romantic scenery. Entry costs about 20,000 VND. Located 5 km north of the lake, on Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street.

Ho Than Thu Lake (“Lake of Sighs”) – A large and romantic lake, expanded by the French through a dam. It’s a popular spot for Vietnamese couples who rent boats or go horseback riding along the shore. Located northeast of the city, along Ho Xuan Huong Road.

Tuyen Lam Lake – One of the most beautiful lakes in the region, known for its deep green, crystal-clear water. Nearby stands Voi Mountain, offering scenic hiking trails and panoramic views over the lake. Located 5 km south of Da Lat, along Highway 20.

 

Nearby Attractions

Van Thanh Flower Village – A charming flower farm located about 2 km from Da Lat. Entry costs 40,000 VND per person. Once inside, you can stroll along a path surrounded by colorful flower and vegetable fields that make for fantastic photos. The peaceful and pastoral atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely walk. It’s best to visit near closing time to avoid the crowds, as the place tends to get packed with local tourists during peak hours.
Address: 40 Vạn Thành, Phường 5

Puppy Farm – Yes, it’s real! Just a few kilometers from Da Lat lies this adorable farm that raises dozens of friendly dogs waiting for you to play fetch with them. It’s an absolute delight, but like the flower village, it gets crowded during the day, so come in the late afternoon for a more relaxed visit. Be gentle with the dogs and respectful of their space. The site also features lovely flower gardens that you can walk through.
Address: Cam Ly, Phường 7, Thành phố Đà Lạt

Me Linh Coffee Garden – Did you know Vietnamese coffee beans are considered among the best in the world? That’s thanks to traditional and unique cultivation methods, including the famous civet coffee process, where beans are eaten by civet cats, collected from their droppings, cleaned, roasted, and brewed. At Me Linh Coffee Garden, you can observe the process firsthand, enjoy incredible mountain views, and taste different types of coffee. A must-visit for coffee lovers!
Address: Hội trường thôn 4, Tổ 20, Tà Nung

Cuong Hoan Silk Factory – Ever wondered how silk fabric is made? At this small yet fascinating factory, you can watch the entire process — from the silk worm’s cocoon to the delicate silk threads being spun and woven into fabric. Visitors can also learn about the machinery, hear stories from workers, and shop for authentic, locally produced silk products in the factory store.
Address: 07 Khu Phố Trưng Vương

Lang Biang Mountain (Lam Vien or Lang Bian) – About 12 km north of Da Lat, this majestic mountain has two peaks (2,167 m and 2,287 m high). The trail begins near Lat Village (1,450 m elevation) and takes about 2–3 hours to reach the first summit and another 1–2 hours to the second. The trails are well-marked and moderately difficult. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Da Lat and the surrounding countryside.

You can also reach the first peak by jeep, with rides departing every few minutes for 50,000–100,000 VND per person. The site offers various activities such as camping, paragliding, horseback riding, and birdwatching. Entrance costs 10,000 VND. You can visit independently or join a full-day guided tour.
Getting there: Take a taxi, motorbike, or a local bus (Bus Thành Bưởi line to the last stop, Bến xe lên đỉnh Langbian). Ask locals which bus goes there — they’re labeled by name, not number.

Lat Village (Chicken Village) – Located at the foot of Lang Biang Mountain, this traditional village is home to one of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. Here you can observe simple village life, local agriculture, a small church, and a school. The friendly residents sell handmade bags, wallets, and scarves to visitors.

Waterfalls Around Da Lat – The area surrounding Da Lat is rich with waterfalls, though some have been heavily developed for tourism. You can reach them by motorbike, taxi, rented car, or as part of organized tours or Easy Rider motorbike trips. If traveling independently, bring a map.

  • Datanla Waterfall – Very close to Da Lat’s southern entrance. It’s quite commercialized but still fun, with multiple waterfalls where you can swim, a roller coaster ride, cable car, canyoning, and kids’ activities. Entrance: 50,000 VND, plus 20,000–80,000 VND per activity. Nearby is Quang Trung Reservoir, offering boat rides for 60,000–150,000 VND.

  • Elephant Falls (Lieng Rewoa Waterfall) – About 30 km south of Da Lat, this waterfall is quieter and less touristy, making it a peaceful visit. Entry costs 20,000 VND. Nearby is the Linh An Tu Pagoda.

  • Cam Ly Falls – Located close to the city but more of a circus-like attraction than a natural one. You can take photos with “Vietnamese cowboys” and stuffed animals. Entry: 20,000 VND.

  • Prenn Falls – About 10 km from Da Lat. Overdeveloped but still scenic, with a 10-meter-high waterfall, cable car, and walking paths. Entry: 20,000 VND. Nearby is the Au Lac Temple.

  • Pongour Falls – Roughly 50 km from Da Lat, this is one of Vietnam’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls, 30 meters high and 100 meters wide. Especially stunning during the rainy season. Entry: 20,000 VND.

  • Dambri Falls – About 80 km from Da Lat, this is the tallest waterfall in the area. Entry: 20,000 VND.

Canyoning (Waterfall Rappelling) – For adventure seekers, this is one of the most thrilling ways to explore Da Lat’s waterfalls. Join a guided canyoning tour, which usually includes several rappelling descents, swimming, and even a picnic. Prices are around $30 per person, depending on group size and negotiation. Always go with a reputable company that provides professional gear and experienced guides. A recommended provider is Groovy Gecko Tours
Address: 2 Phan Đình Phùng | Website: groovygeckotours.net

Easy Riders – One of the most popular activities in and around Da Lat. These experienced motorbike guides (recognizable by their matching vests) offer 1–3 day trips through waterfalls, lakes, coffee farms, and remote villages. They speak good English and share fascinating insights about the region’s history, people, and culture. Prices range from $60–85 per day (including accommodation and meals) or around $25 for a single-day trip.

The Easy Riders are easy to find — they often approach travelers on the street or can be met at tourist cafés, restaurants, or their base:
Easy Rider Café, 70 Phan Dinh Phung.

Shopping & Markets

Da Lat Market (Chợ Đà Lạt) – Like every major city in Vietnam, Da Lat has its own bustling central market. Here you’ll find hundreds of stalls selling local wine, flowers, sweets, dried fruits, and coffee beans from nearby farms. The market is located on Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, right in the city center — perfect for a morning or evening stroll.

 

How to Get There

By Air – Da Lat’s airport receives daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City and about four weekly flights from Hanoi. A flight from Ho Chi Minh City costs around $30 and takes roughly 30 minutes, while a flight from Hanoi costs about $80. The airport is located 30 km south of Da Lat.

By Bus – Open-ticket tourist buses stop in Da Lat daily. Routes include:

  • Ho Chi Minh City → Da Lat (6–8 hours, 60,000–100,000 VND)

  • Nha Trang → Da Lat (5 hours, 80,000–150,000 VND)

  • Mui Ne → Da Lat (4 hours, 80,000–150,000 VND)

You can also take public buses from these cities, but most travelers prefer booking through travel agencies for more comfort and reliability.

Want the easiest way to reach Da Lat? Book a public or private bus ticket in advance for the best price and convenience!

Getting Around

On Foot – The city center is compact, and most attractions within Da Lat can be reached by walking.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from hotels or travel agencies for $1–3 per day, or around $1 per hour for lakefront rides (including tandem bikes). However, be aware that Da Lat has many steep hills, which can be challenging.

Motorbike (Xe Om) – For longer distances (such as the waterfalls), you can either hire a local motorbike taxi (“xe om”), go with an Easy Rider guide, or rent a motorbike yourself for $5–10 per day. Your hotel can easily arrange one.

Taxi – Available throughout the city, though more expensive than other options.

Public Bus – A local bus runs through most of Da Lat’s tourist sites. You can catch it near the lake or on Khu Hoa Binh Street. Buses also travel to nearby villages, though they are not numbered and can be confusing — it’s best to ask your hotel or restaurant staff for help.

Weather

Unlike the tropical climate of much of Vietnam, Da Lat’s mountain weather is mild and comfortable most of the year. It’s cooler than the rest of the country, so bring layers.

  • Rainy season: May–October

  • Dry season: November–April

  • Temperatures: 6°C–27°C (average 18°C–25°C)

Da Lat is pleasant year-round, but evenings can get chilly, especially from December to February.

Golden Tip

A day trip (or two!) exploring ethnic minority villages, coffee fields, waterfalls, and lakes around Da Lat is an absolute must. For a truly immersive experience, stay overnight in one of the villages (like Lat Village) with a local homestay. You can do this on your own or with an Easy Rider guide, by car, bike, or motorbike — but make sure you do it!

What Not to Do

There’s so much to see outside Da Lat that it’s not worth spending too much time on the city’s less impressive attractions. Save your time for the countryside’s real beauty.

Safety & Warnings

Da Lat is generally safe and welcoming, but be cautious of fake or unlicensed Easy Rider guides. If you rent or ride a motorbike, always use proper safety gear and stay alert.

The city’s charm lies in its people, nature, and calm atmosphere — explore it respectfully, and Da Lat will surely leave you enchanted.

Final Thoughts

Da Lat is a city that feels like no other in Vietnam — a romantic mountain retreat wrapped in cool air, pine forests, and endless shades of green. With its French colonial charm, colorful flower gardens, tranquil lakes, and cascading waterfalls, it offers a refreshing break from the country’s tropical heat and urban chaos.

Beyond its beauty, Da Lat’s soul lies in its people — warm, welcoming, and full of pride for their home. Whether you’re sipping freshly brewed coffee overlooking misty hills, wandering through vibrant local markets, or riding into the countryside with an Easy Rider, every experience here feels authentic and unforgettable.

Take your time to breathe in the calm, explore beyond the city center, and let Da Lat’s magic unfold slowly — because this is not a place to rush, but one to feel.

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