Have you ever stumbled upon a travel photo online that immediately ignited a spark of curiosity within you?
That was precisely what happened to me when I first saw an image of The French Village. It is located in Ba Na Hills, Da Nang, Vietnam.
As a frequent traveler, I want to experience the picturesque French-inspired village for myself. So, I made it a priority to include it as a side trip on my journey from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi.
In this article, I will take you on a tour of Ba Na Hills and share my personal experience. Here are the highlights, dining options, and practical tips to help you plan your own visit to this charming Vietnamese destination.
Ba Na Hills is a popular mountain resort located about 40 minutes away from Da Nang City. It is about 16 miles (25 km) from the city center.
The resort is located at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the city below.
Ba Na Hills Ticket Price 2023
The admission fees for Ba Na Hills are subject to slight adjustments every year. As of 2023, the current ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults: 900,000 VND
- Children (1.0-1.4 meter): 750,000 VND
- Babies (<1 meter/): free
To stay updated with the latest ticket prices, please visit the official website.
Getting There
Transportation Options
My friend and I booked our trip to Ba Na Hills via Klook, which included transportation to and from the park, and the park entrance fee. Klook offers several transportation options depending on your budget and preferences. It includes shared transfers and private cars.
If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, there are several options available. You can take a taxi from Da Nang city, which is about an hour’s drive away.
It would cost you around 400,000 VND (approx. 17 USD) for one way and 600,000 VND (approx. 26 USD) for two ways.
Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus. It is a more affordable option, but may be less comfortable. A two-way ticket costs around 130,000 VND (approx.6 USD).
Tips for Booking Tickets
Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended. The park can get quite busy, especially during peak seasons. We found that booking our tickets via Klook was hassle-free. We were able to skip the long ticket lines at the park.
If you prefer to purchase your tickets at the park, be prepared for long queues. It’s also worth noting that the park has limited daily admission numbers. So, it’s best to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Ba Na Hills Attractions
Ba Na Hills is a massive park that offers a range of attractions and activities to suit every taste. From scenic cable car rides to cultural landmarks, there is something for everyone here.
To reach Ba Na Hills, visitors can take a cable car ride from the foot of the mountain. The cable car ride is about 5 km long and takes about 20 minutes. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Da Nang city.
1. Golden Bridge
One of the most iconic attractions at Ba Na Hills is the Golden Bridge.
The bridge is an architectural marvel that spans 150 meters. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains. The bridge is held up by two giant hands. It makes for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
2. French Village
The French Village is a charming and romantic corner of Ba Na Hills, complete with cobbled streets, rustic buildings, and quaint cafes.
The village is modeled after a traditional French town, and it’s worth taking the time to explore and soak up the ambiance.
3. Fantasy Park
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Fantasy Park is a must-visit attraction. This indoor amusement park is home to a range of exciting rides and attractions, including a 4D and 5D cinema, roller coasters, and a free-fall tower.
4. Linh Ung Pagoda
Linh Ung Pagoda is a stunning Buddhist temple located within the park.
The temple is famous for its towering white statue of the Goddess of Mercy, which can be seen from miles away. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, take in the intricate architecture, and learn about the history and significance of this sacred site.
5. Debay Wine Cellar
For wine enthusiasts, the Debay Wine Cellar is a must-visit attraction.
This underground cellar is home to an impressive collection of wines from around the world, and visitors can take a tour of the cellar and sample some of the finest vintages on offer.
6. Wax Museum
The Wax Museum is another popular attraction at Ba Na Hills. This museum is home to a collection of lifelike wax figures of famous people from around the world, including politicians, actors, and athletes. Visitors can take photos with their favorite celebrities and learn about their achievements and contributions to society.
Food and Dining
Food prices at Ba Na Hills can be quite expensive compared to other dining options in Vietnam, but the quality of food and the ambiance of the restaurants make it worth it.
It’s important to note that the eat-all-you-can lunch package offered by tour groups is usually cheaper than ordering directly from the park. But we opted not to have the eat-all-you-can lunch package from our tour since we wanted more time to explore Ba Na Hills on our own.
There are several dining places in Ba Na Hills worth checking out.
For a taste of Vietnamese cuisine, head to the buffet restaurant or the L’etable restaurant. If you’re in the mood for French food, the Le Jardin d’Amour restaurant is a must-visit.
For a casual snack or drink, the Debay bar is a great place to relax and enjoy the views.
Travel Tips to Ba Na Hills
Best time to visit
If you want to enjoy the park’s outdoor attractions, the best time to visit Ba Na Hills is from April to August. This is when the weather is usually clear and sunny. However, be prepared for bigger crowds during this time, especially since it’s also school break.
Weather and climate
When my friend and I visited Ba Na Hills last March 2023, we were greeted with foggy weather that limited our visibility to just 10 meters ahead most of the time. But even with the fog, we still had a great time exploring the park.
We also experienced some drizzles, so we regretted not bringing an umbrella or/and raincoat. The weather in Ba Na Hills can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
Dos and Don’ts
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the park. Trust us, your feet will thank you later!
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during the summer months. The sun can be intense, so protect yourself from sunburn.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and attractions. You’ll definitely want to snap some photos!
- Respect the rules and regulations of the park, including proper disposal of waste and following designated paths. Let’s keep the park beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
- Don’t bring outside food or drinks into the park. There are plenty of food options within the park that you can try.
Conclusion
Ba Na Hills is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. With its breathtaking scenery, exciting attractions, and delicious food options, it’s no wonder why it’s become such a popular tourist spot. From the Golden Bridge to the French Village, there’s something for everyone at Ba Na Hills.
While it’s important to plan your visit carefully, including transportation, ticket prices, attractions, and food options, don’t forget to also be open to unexpected experiences and moments of adventure.
