When you think of Vietnam, you probably imagine bustling cities, lantern-lit streets, or serene rice terraces. But perched high in the Truong Son Mountains, near Da Nang, lies one of the country’s most surreal attractions — the Golden Bridge. You’ve likely seen it all over Instagram — a golden walkway held up by two giant stone hands, emerging from the mist. Seeing it in person, though, is an entirely different experience.
The Golden Bridge is part of Sun World Ba Na Hills, a mountaintop theme park that feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The journey itself is spectacular — you get there by the Ba Na Hills cable car, which holds the record for being one of the longest and most scenic cable car rides in the world. As you ascend, the views change dramatically — from lush forests to rolling hills and, finally, the mist-covered European-style village that crowns the mountain.
Sun World has a lot to offer — French-inspired architecture, gardens, fantasy castles, a wax museum, and even an amusement park. But the undeniable star of the show is the Golden Bridge. Unfortunately, it’s also the most crowded spot. By mid-morning, it’s swarming with visitors, making it almost impossible to take those dreamlike photos you see online.
That’s why we decided to stay overnight at the Mercure Danang French Village Ba Na Hills, the only hotel located inside Sun World itself. And honestly, it was the best decision of our trip.
Here’s why: as guests of the Mercure, you get exclusive access to the Golden Bridge from 6 AM, while it opens to the public only at 8 AM. The cable cars operate every 30 minutes between 6 and 8 AM exclusively for hotel guests, making it possible to reach the bridge before anyone else arrives.
We found that the 6:30 AM cable car ride gave us the best experience — there were very few people, the air was cool and fresh, and we even caught a spectacular sunrise. The clouds and sunlight played a beautiful game of hide-and-seek around the bridge, creating one of those moments you’ll remember forever.
The hotel itself is charming, though the rooms are fairly basic. But what it lacks in luxury, it more than makes up for in location and atmosphere. In the evenings, once the day-trippers leave, the whole place transforms. The cobblestone streets fall silent, lights flicker through the mist, and it suddenly feels like you’ve been transported to a quiet European village. It’s surreal — a side of Ba Na Hills most tourists never get to see.
The Mercure also has an indoor heated pool, perfect for a quick dip since it’s usually quite chilly up there. There are several restaurants and cafés to choose from, and the breakfast buffet is decent — not exceptional, but enough to start your day before heading out to explore again.
So, if you’re planning a visit to Ba Na Hills, here’s our tip: skip the day trip and stay overnight. Waking up in the clouds and walking on the Golden Bridge without the crowds is an experience you’ll never forget.
🌤️ Pro Tips for Visiting the Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning is ideal — aim for the 6:30 AM cable car, when the weather is cool, the crowds are minimal, and the sunrise lights up the mist.
- Cable Car Schedule: For Mercure guests, cable cars run every 30 minutes between 6–8 AM. Public visitors can start from 8 AM onwards.
- What to Pack: Carry a light jacket — it’s often misty and chilly, especially early morning and after sunset.
- How to Reach: Ba Na Hills is around 40 km from Da Nang city center (about 1 hour by car). Taxis or private transfers are the most convenient option.
- Stay Recommendation: Mercure Danang French Village Ba Na Hills — basic rooms but unbeatable location and access.
- Photography Tip: Head straight to the Golden Bridge right after your early cable car ride for the best light and minimal crowds.
