Shore Excursion TIEN SA or CHAN MAY Port to GOLDEN BRIDGE via Cable Car & HOI AN

Introduction

If you’re visiting Da Nang and looking for a well-rounded, immersive day trip, this shore excursion from Tien Sa or Chan May Port offers a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights. From the world-record-holding cable car ride to the enchanting streets of Hoi An, this tour packs a lot into just one day.

We love that this tour combines spectacular views, cultural exploration, and convenience—all wrapped into a private, guided experience. What’s more, it includes entrance fees and lunch, making it straightforward and value-packed. However, keep in mind that with a full itinerary, it’s a fairly packed day, so travelers with mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly.

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers or anyone eager to maximize their time in Da Nang without the hassle of planning. If you’re after a blend of scenic beauty, historical sites, and local flavor, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Stunning Cable Car Ride: The Ba Na Hills cable car is Guinness World Record-holding, offering incredible jungle views.
• Famous Golden Bridge: The 148.6-meter-long bridge features giant hands holding it up, perfect for memorable photos.
• Cultural Highlights in Hoi An: Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient town with its Japanese covered bridge and historic houses.
• Inclusive and Convenient: Ticket, lunch, and transport are all covered, with a private guide ensuring personalized attention.
• Time-efficient: Designed to fit into a cruise schedule, with a return to port an hour before departure.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit a local restaurant and markets for a taste of regional life.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Pickup and Transportation

Your day begins early, with pickup arranged from Tien Sa or Chan May Port. The private car or minivan, accompanied by a knowledgeable driver, ensures a smooth ride. Reviews mention the driver’s professionalism and the comfort of the vehicle, which makes a significant difference given the day’s busy schedule.

Having a private guide with you means insider tips and a tailored experience, especially when it comes to photography spots or avoiding crowds. The guide’s role extends beyond navigation—they share stories about each site, enhancing your appreciation.

Ba Na Hills and the Cable Car Experience

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the Sun World Ba Na Hills, accessible via the world-record-breaking cable car. Spanning 5,042 meters, this route is a marvel of engineering and offers breathtaking views over lush jungle and misty mountains.

Travelers have noted that the cable car ride feels like a journey through a jungle canopy, with panoramic vistas that are perfect for photos. The cable car also comes with the Guinness World Records recognition for its length and height difference, which adds a touch of pride for visitors.

Once at the top, you’ll explore a range of attractions, with the Golden Bridge being the star. The bridge itself is a sight to behold—its sweeping curve, held up by giant stone hands, makes for an iconic shot. You’ll have about 50 minutes here to admire the scenery, take photos, and walk along the bridge’s length.

Exploring Ba Na Hills

After marveling at the Golden Bridge, you’ll visit other spots within Ba Na Hills, including a flower garden and a Buddha statue. These areas offer more photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Guides usually share interesting tidbits about the architecture and history, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Lunch Break

Down from the hills, a lunch at a local restaurant provides a taste of regional flavors. While specific menu details aren’t provided, reviews suggest the meal is a decent, hearty break after the cable car adventure. Bottled water is also included, which helps stay refreshed throughout the day.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Next, you’re off to Hoi An, just about 30 km south of Da Nang. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is a charming maze of narrow streets, historic houses, and unique architecture. Your guide will take you through highlights like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Ancient House, and the Cultural and Historical Museum.

Travelers have appreciated the short but rich visit, as it allows a glimpse into Vietnam’s trading past without feeling rushed. Some mention that the Old House of Tan Ky offers a feel for traditional merchant life, while the Japanese Covered Bridge adds a distinctive cultural touch.

Cultural and Shopping Stops

A visit to Hoi An wouldn’t be complete without a walk through the local market, where vibrant stalls sell everything from lanterns to handicrafts. The Fishing & Farming Museum is another stop, offering insight into local livelihoods and traditions. About 30 minutes is allocated, enough to get a taste of the town’s bustling atmosphere and pick up some souvenirs.

Returning to Port

Your day wraps up with a comfortable drive back, arriving before the ship’s departure time—usually at least an hour earlier. This punctuality is a key benefit for cruise travelers, ensuring no stress about missing the boat.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Transport & Comfort: The private vehicle makes a noticeable difference, especially on a busy day. The guided experience means less waiting and more personalized attention, which many reviewers find invaluable.

Timing & Duration: The 8-hour schedule is tight but manageable. The cable car ride, sightseeing, and lunch are well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Cost & Value: At $194.88 per person, this tour offers a lot—entrance tickets, cable car rides, lunch, and personalized guiding. For cruise passengers, it’s a convenient way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of independent planning.

Physical Fitness: The tour requires moderate mobility—walking around sites and some stairs in Hoi An—so it’s suitable for most travelers with average fitness levels.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is perfect for cruise passengers or visitors with limited time who want a rundown of Da Nang, Ba Na Hills, and Hoi An. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic rides, cultural exploration, and guided commentary. If you’re after a hassle-free day with all logistics handled, this tour offers good value.

Final Thoughts

This shore excursion provides an entertaining and efficient way to experience some of Vietnam’s most renowned sights. The combination of a breathtaking cable car ride, the iconic Golden Bridge, and the charm of Hoi An makes it a well-rounded package. The knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics ensure you get the most out of your limited time.

While it’s a full day—meaning a lot of walking and a packed schedule—it’s designed to maximize what you’ll see and learn. It’s a great choice for travelers eager for scenic beauty, cultural insights, and solid value.

For those who love capturing incredible photos, learning about local culture, and enjoying hassle-free travel, this tour offers a compelling mix. Just be prepared for a busy day, and you’ll return with not just memories but plenty of stories.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Tien Sa or Chan May Port, arranged based on your specified times and port.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car route at Ba Na Hills is about 5,042 meters long, making it one of the longest and highest in the world, offering spectacular jungle views.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, both the Ba Na Hills cable car and the attractions within are covered in the ticket price, along with the entrance to Hoi An sites.

How much time is spent at each location?
You’ll have approximately 50 minutes at Ba Na Hills, 50 minutes at the Golden Bridge, and around 1 hour 20 minutes exploring Hoi An’s highlights.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a meal at a local restaurant is included, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection and a camera. Bottled water is provided.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?
While suitable for most, travelers should have moderate fitness to handle walking and stairs, especially in Hoi An and on the bridge.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

To sum it up, this guided day trip from Da Nang’s ports offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and convenience. Perfect for cruise passengers or those short on time, it delivers a memorable snapshot of Vietnam’s vibrant heritage and breathtaking landscapes.