Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills 1 Day including buffets lunch & 2 ways Cable Car

If you’re planning a trip to Da Nang, a visit to Ba Na Hills and the iconic Golden Bridge is often on the must-see list. This guided tour offers a well-rounded day full of breathtaking views, family-friendly activities, and cultural highlights—all bundled with convenient transportation and a buffet lunch. We haven’t experienced it firsthand, but from what travelers say, it’s a fun, scenic, and mostly hassle-free way to see one of Vietnam’s top attractions.

What makes this tour really appealing are three standout features: the spectacular cable car rides (some of the longest in the world), the chance to walk across the viral Golden Bridge, and the variety of activities at Fantasy Park. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and a buffet lunch adds to the convenience and value. The only potential downside we’ve seen is that some reviews mention disorganization and delays, so it’s worth being prepared for some variability in timing or expectations.

This experience is best suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comprehensive day out that combines nature, architecture, and entertainment. If you enjoy scenic rides, cultural sights, and lively attractions, this tour checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Scenic cable car rides provide panoramic views of Da Nang and the lush forest below.
• The Golden Bridge offers a unique photo opportunity with its impressive design and viral fame.
• The French Village and other cultural stops add a taste of colonial Vietnam.
• Fantasy Park provides indoor entertainment suitable for all ages.
• The included buffet lunch offers good variety and value.
• Some reviews mention long bus rides and organizational hiccups, so patience is helpful.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day tour delivers a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and family fun. For around $86.90 per person, you get a mix of scenic rides, cultural sights, and entertainment, all in a convenient package. The tour’s duration is approximately 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day out.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on small-group travel—limiting the number of participants to about 23—ensuring a more personalized experience compared to large bus trips. The air-conditioned vehicle and professional English-speaking guide help make the journey comfortable and informative.

Transport and Logistics

Your day begins with a hotel pickup, a relief for travelers tired of hailing taxis or organizing transport. The driver will take you to the cable car station, where you’ll board the most modern cable cars in Southeast Asia. The ride offers sweeping views of Quang Nam and Da Nang from high above, creating that perfect photo op.

Once at Ba Na Hills, you’ll visit several key sites, including the Golden Bridge, Le Jardin Damour, the Linh Ung Pagoda, and the French Village. The second cable car ride takes you deeper into the hillside, where you’ll explore more cultural spots like the Nine Floor Goddess Shrine and Linh Phong Monastery.

The Golden Bridge: A Photo-Opportunity Heaven

The Golden Bridge has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. Its sweeping curves look like a dragon’s back, supported by stone hands that seem to cradle the sky. The view from here stretches over lush forests and distant mountains—perfect for photos and just soaking in the scale of this engineering marvel. Some reviews mention that fog or mist can obscure views, especially if you go early in the year, but most agree it’s still a sight worth seeing.

Cultural and Scenic Stops

Beyond the bridge, the tour includes visits to Le Jardin Damour, a beautifully curated garden area with nine different themed gardens. Reviewers note that guides are eager to share insights into the area’s history, which adds depth to the visit. The Linh Ung Pagoda is another peaceful stop with impressive statues and views.

Fantasy Park and Entertainment

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to Fantasy Park, a large indoor amusement complex with dinosaur parks, 4D rides, and numerous free games—over 90 at last count. The park is highly praised for its variety and family-friendly atmosphere. Reviewers mention that the indoor attractions provide a welcome escape from the sometimes unpredictable weather.

Food and Refreshments

The included buffet lunch at a restaurant on Ba Na Hills is a highlight for many. It offers a range of options catering to different tastes, with some travelers noting it’s more than enough for a full stomach. Complimentary bottled water is also included, which helps stay hydrated during the walk and exploration.

The Realities of the Tour: What Travelers Say

While the majority of reviews are positive, some recurring issues are worth noting. Several travelers mention long wait times for pick-up, with one reviewer waiting nearly an hour and a half. Disorganization is cited, with some feeling the timing and communication could be better.

A few reviews point out bus discomfort, describing the vehicle as cramped or tiny—meaning knees might be pressed against the seat in front, especially for taller travelers. Others mention weather-dependent experiences, with fog or rain obscuring views, which is common in mountain or hilltop locations.

Pricing is another point of debate; some reviewers felt they paid significantly more than others for the same tour, highlighting the importance of booking in advance and checking what is included.

However, guides like William, Tom, and Rosie are praised for their friendly attitude, knowledge, and attentiveness, which can really make or break the experience. Many travelers appreciated the smaller group size, leading to a more relaxed atmosphere.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Cable Car Ride

Your day kicks off early with a hotel pickup, which most guests found smooth and punctual. The cable car ride is a standout feature—it’s among the longest in the world and provides incredible sweeping vistas. The Dream Stream Cable Car Station offers panoramic views of both the city and forest from high above, making the journey itself an attraction.

Visiting the Golden Bridge and Cultural Sites

Once at Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge is the first major stop. Its design and scale are truly impressive, with many reviewers noting that the photos don’t do it justice. Be prepared for crowds, especially if you visit during peak times. The Le Jardin Damour offers a peaceful walk through various garden themes, providing excellent photo opportunities and a taste of colonial architecture.

A visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda adds a meditative touch, with its towering Buddha statue and peaceful ambiance. The French Village features European-style buildings, a campanile, and the Nine Floor Goddess Shrine, giving a sense of old-world charm.

Lunch and Rest Period

The buffet lunch on Ba Na Hills is generally well-received. Reviewers note that it caters to multiple tastes, with some emphasizing the variety and quality. It’s an excellent chance to rehydrate and refuel before the afternoon activities.

Fantasy Park: Family Fun and Indoor Attractions

After lunch, your next focus is the indoor theme park. The park’s numerous rides—including dinosaur parks, 4D rides, and free games—are a hit with families and kids. Visitors mention that even on misty or rainy days, the indoor activities keep the day lively.

Departing from Ba Na Hills

Around 3:00 pm, you’ll take the cable car back down, with most reviews noting the ride down offers more scenic views. The return journey tends to be smooth, with most guests feeling satisfied with their experience.

The Value of This Tour

At just under $87, this trip packs in a lot of value. It includes hotel pickup, round-trip cable cars (two rides), a buffet lunch, and a local guide who shares insights along the way. For many, this offers a more convenient and affordable alternative to organizing independent transportation and tickets.

While some travelers found bus comfort lacking or experienced schedule delays, most agree that the scenic highlights and cultural stops make the tour worthwhile. The small-group format helps keep the experience intimate and engaging, with plenty of opportunity for questions and photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re short on time but want to see the best of Ba Na Hills, this tour offers a comprehensive option. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or travelers who prefer guided, all-in-one packages that minimize planning stress. Nature lovers and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Golden Bridge and the French Village, while families with kids will enjoy the indoor theme park.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to weather conditions or dislike long bus rides, you might want to plan for flexible options or consider visiting on a clearer day. Those prone to disorganization or delays should be prepared for some unpredictability, as some reviews suggest.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, most bookings include free pickup from your Da Nang hotel, making it very convenient.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable cars are among the longest in Southeast Asia, and you’ll take two rides—one up and one down—each offering panoramic views.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at a restaurant on Ba Na Hills is included, with options to suit various tastes.

What are the main attractions at Ba Na Hills?
The Golden Bridge, French Village, Le Jardin Damour, Linh Ung Pagoda, and Fantasy Park are the highlights.

Can I skip certain parts of the tour?
Because it’s a guided excursion, flexibility is limited, but you can choose to spend more time at certain spots if your guide agrees.

How many people are in each group?
Most tours are limited to about 23 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if it’s rainy or foggy.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra costs include personal expenses, optional activities like the wax museum or wine cellar, and transportation from Hoi An if you opt for the additional group fee.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially because of Fantasy Park and the relaxed pace, but parents should supervise younger kids around the cable car and large crowds.

What is the best time to visit Ba Na Hills?
Most reviews suggest February to September offers clearer weather, but be prepared for potential fog or rain at any time.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic way to experience the grandeur of Ba Na Hills without the stress of organizing tickets or transport. The spectacular cable cars, famous Golden Bridge, and family-friendly attractions make it a well-rounded day out. The value for money is generally good, especially when considering the included buffet lunch and scenic rides.

While some travelers have faced delays or disorganization, most agree guides like William and Tom are friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip enjoyable. The indoor park keeps kids entertained, and the cultural stops add depth to the experience.

If you’re after a convenient, scenic, and engaging day in Da Nang, this tour is a solid choice—just keep your expectations flexible and your camera charged.

This tour is best for those eager to see the highlights of Ba Na Hills with minimal hassle, especially first-time visitors and families seeking a fun, scenic day out.