Why Hilton Da Nang is the perfect city escape for travellers: From scenic views of the Han River to stellar service, here’s what we loved.
Ah, Da Nang. What a great hotspot for sun-seekers, history buffs, and food lovers alike. And with that comes various boutique and five-star hotels, as well as beach resorts for all sorts of travellers. Now, if lounging at a beach resort isn’t quite your scene, pack your bags and head to Hilton Da Nang instead. Right smack in the heart of the city, its prime location means you’re close to buzzing markets, rich cultural sights, electric nightlife, and even the airport. But wait, there’s more – we’re talking scenic bay views, spacious suites, a 24-hour fitness centre, and an excellent rooftop restaurant. Join me as I revisit my wholesome stay at Hilton Da Nang.
What’s good, Hilton Da Nang?
After four fabulous days in Hoi An, my excitement kicked in as I arrived at the hotel. The lobby was busy but there’s ample seating and a cafe while you wait to be checked in. Since I got the one-bedroom ocean view suite, I had access to the executive lounge for an easy breezy check-in. Located on the 27th floor, the lounge is a cosy space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Han River. I treated myself to light snacks, and hot and cold beverages (including Vietnamese coffee) as I chatted with the staff. Those with lounge access can also have breakfast and happy hour drinks here.
The first thing I noticed? The excellent service – everyone was willing to go the extra mile. Instead of pushing me to book a tour with the hotel, one staff member recommended a more affordable alternative – score! Spirits were high as I entered my room on the 17th floor.
A perfect refuge after a long day of sightseeing
The same inviting floor-to-ceiling windows greeted me, but now with my own viewing corner by a long settee. The suite has a rectangular layout with the bedroom, living room, and toilet partitioned into separate sections. Depending on the purpose of your stay, the living room has a workspace and a lounge area with a telly to keep you entertained. The large bathroom comes with a double vanity, a free-standing tub and a rain shower with strong water pressure – quite a relief after my previous hotel. But what I loved the most was the inviting king bed that brought me straight to snooze town.
If I had to be picky, my only gripe would be the outdated tech in the room. In an age where even new boutique hotels offer digital TVs with Chromecast and streaming platforms, the old-school telephone, clock radio with an MP3 connection instead of Bluetooth, and a finicky remote felt a bit behind the times. It was also tough to plug into some electrical outlets.
Another jarring thing I noticed was the lack of ocean views. Sure, if you squint, you’ll notice the beach but calling the room an ‘ocean view suite’ is a bit of a stretch. Not that I had any complaints about the river view though. In fact, I woke up to a dreamy amber-orange sunrise the next morning.
A breakfast feast and dining with a view
Breakfast is served from 6.30am to 10.30am at Brasserie Nam, a casual, airy space with an open kitchen to watch the chefs in action. I was treated to a wide variety of Korean, Vietnamese, and Western cuisine, as well as a vegetarian section and pastries galore. Tip: ask the staff to whip up a mean cup of Vietnamese coffee for the perfect pick-me-up. But it gets busy from 9.30am onwards, so it’s best to be an early bird.
Fast-forward to dinner at The Sail, where the vibes are taken up a notch for a classy date night meal. I had the bang-for-your-buck five-course set menu featuring smoked duck salad, Japanese scallops, pumpkin soup, beef tenderloin and tiramisu – all for about $50.
Every dish was well thought out, executed perfectly and beautifully plated with generous portions. I particularly enjoyed the pumpkin soup with prawns and a slow-cooked egg for extra creaminess, plus pumpkin crisp for texture. Pair that with top-class service and colourful evening views of the Han River and river cruises and it’s truly a night to remember.
All the essential amenities under one roof
After all that feasting, I made my way to the 24-hour fitness centre the next day for a little cardio action. Spotting me at a gym in Singapore is a rarity but there’s something about hotel gyms (especially spacious ones like this) that makes me wanna get my steps up. After that, I took a dip in the heated outdoor pool – it’s small but oh-so relaxing.
Before I knew it, it was time to go home. I agreed with the staff that my stay was too short but I still had an unforgettable time. Will I be back again? Maybe if I was travelling with family for convenience and accessibility. But I have a feeling its sister property, Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang, might be more my scene.
Hilton Da Nang, 50 Bach Dang St, Hai Chau District 550000, Da Nang, Vietnam
