Touch down in Da Nang and you’ll hear people rave about the beaches, the food, the fireworks. But stand by the Han River at golden hour and one shape steals the show: a giant sail taking the wind, tilted toward the water like it’s about to push off and glide. That’s Tran Thi Ly Bridge—equal parts engineering flex and pure romance. It’s where traffic hums, photographers linger, and locals come to breathe after a long day. Let’s wander over and see why this bridge has become a modern icon.
From Historic Crossings to a City Symbol
Where it is and how to reach it
Smack in the heart of Da Nang, Tran Thi Ly Bridge is easy to reach from most city hotels. Expect a 5–10 minute ride by taxi or motorbike from the riverfront. If you’re near Han Market, a leisurely 15-minute riverwalk will get you there—with plenty of photo stops along the way.
A quick timeline
Before this sail-shaped beauty, the river was crossed here by earlier bridges, including one built in the French colonial era (De Lattre de Tassigny), later renamed Trinh Minh The. Those crossings laid the groundwork for the city’s river transport and urban growth. The current Tran Thi Ly Bridge opened in 2013, keeping pace with Da Nang’s rapid transformation into Vietnam’s most forward-looking coastal city.
Why the name matters
The bridge honors Tran Thi Ly, a Vietnamese revolutionary whose courage has inspired generations. Naming a marquee public work after a woman of such resolve adds soul to the steel—and locals are proud of it.
Design That Looks Ready to Set Sail
A unique three-dimensional cable system
Look closely: the cables fan in three directions, creating a stable, sculptural structure you won’t mistake for any other bridge in Vietnam. From a distance, the whole thing reads as a wind-filled sail over the Han River—dynamic by day and dazzling at night.
The 145-meter leaning pylon (tilted 12 degrees)
That dramatic incline isn’t just for drama. The 12-degree tilt toward the river is a feat of calculation that optimizes load distribution while gifting the skyline a bold, instantly recognizable silhouette. If it reminds you of Pisa—but modern—you’re not alone.
Built wide, built strong
Multiple lanes keep traffic flowing, and the deck feels reassuringly solid thanks to its modern steel structure. Whether you’re strolling, biking, or cruising by car, the experience is smooth and safe.
When the Bridge Truly Shines
Nightfall: a light show on the water
After sunset, the bridge swaps its daytime minimalism for a changing LED glow—cool blues melting into warm ambers and festive reds. During the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF), Tran Thi Ly becomes part of the stage, reflecting color and flame across the river like a mirror.
The best photo angles
- Mid-bridge, facing Dragon Bridge: you’ll frame two icons at once.
- Riverwalk below the pylon: capture the “sail” towering above you.
- Sunset (roughly 5:30–6:30 pm depending on season): glassy reflections on the Han River plus pastel skies.
- Blue hour: richer skies, crisp lights, fewer blown highlights.
Tip: Pack a wider lens for the pylon and a 35–50mm for skyline shots. A small tripod helps with long exposures after dark.
Plan Your Visit Like a Local
Best time to go
- 6:00–7:00 am: soft light, cooler temps, calm traffic.
- 6:00–9:00 pm: lighting in full swing, river breeze, great city vibe.
If you’re timing a visit for the fireworks festival, confirm dates and viewing zones in advance—schedules can change.
Pair it with Da Nang’s other headline bridges
Da Nang didn’t earn “city of bridges” by accident. A breezy mini-route:
- Tran Thi Ly Bridge: the sail
- Dragon Bridge: famed weekend fire and water shows
- Han River Bridge: Vietnam’s first rotating bridge
- Thuan Phuoc Bridge: the long, elegant cable-stay by the river mouth
Up for a day trip? Head to Ba Na Hills for the Golden Bridge—those giant stone hands cradling a gold ribbon walkway have become a global sensation for good reason.
Nearby stops worth your time
- Asia Park & Sun Wheel: nighttime skyline views and neon-drenched fun.
- Han Market and the river boulevard: snacks, souvenirs, street performances.
- Danang Downtown riverfront: live acoustic sets, fire dancing, street art, and a lively evening stroll scene.
Quick Practical Guide
- Cost: Free to visit; no ticket required.
- Getting there: Taxi, Grab, or motorbike. Parking spots line nearby streets—watch local signs.
- Safety:
- Use the sidewalks and crossings; traffic can be quick.
- For night photos, keep gear secure and stay aware near the water.
- Avoid standing in the roadway for shots—there are plenty of safe vantage points.
- Weather:
- Dry season (roughly Feb–Aug) offers the clearest skies.
- Rainy season can bring dramatic clouds—great for photos, but carry a light rain shell.
- Accessibility: Sidewalks are present; curb ramps vary. If mobility is a consideration, ask your driver to drop you near the pylon approach for the shortest walk.
- Events: DIFF fireworks typically run early summer—confirm official dates and viewing areas.
A Final Word
Tran Thi Ly Bridge isn’t just something you cross—it’s something you feel. The wind off the river, the tilt of the pylon, the glow that rises with the night—all of it adds up to a memory you’ll keep. If Da Nang is the city where Vietnam looks forward, this is the line it draws on the sky. Go see it. Then take your time walking back along the river. That’s where the city says hello.