The mesmerizing city of Dalat is a concoction of forests, mountains, and waterfalls. The city has everything a typical digital nomad prefers; trendy cafes, bustling streets, a vibrant atmosphere, and ravishing sights.
If this place has caught your eye and you want to live there as a digital nomad then there are some things you should know.
This comprehensive digital nomad guide to Dalat City will cover all the basics and provide all the necessary information.
Where is Dalat City located?
Dalat City is located in southern Vietnam and is the capital of Lam Dong province. It is 1500m (4900 ft) above sea level on the Langbian plateau and surrounded by pine forests. Dalat is also the largest city in the central highlands region.
Fact: Dalat City is known as the “city of eternal spring” because of its misty weather all year long.
Why Choose Dalat City as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Dalat City is a beautiful place to live and it has a lot to offer but let’s weigh some of its pros and cons before we move forward.
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast internet | Less freedom of speech |
| Low cost of living | Conservative mindset towards lgbtq+ |
| Safe | Dangerous roads |
| Welcoming locals | Democracy isn’t famous |
| Warm all year | Not the safest for women |
| Various touristy sights | English is not spoken widely |
If you are willing to put some of the political aspects aside then Dalat will be a great place for you. Every place has its flaws but compared to rest of the Vietnam, this city has a cooler climate. Dalat is also modern in terms of architecture.
If you are in search of misty weather, blossoming flowers, picturesque waterfalls, pine forests, and popular coffee culture, be sure to visit here.
How to Get to Dalat City?
If you want to get to Dalat City, you’ll need to take a connecting flight and into Vietnam. Once you are in the country, you can get to Dalat City through various means.
Plane
The most effective way would be to travel via plane. The Lien Khuong Airport, operated by Airasia, is located 30 km south of the city and is estimated to be the nearest. You can fly into Kuala Lumpur and take a direct flight from there. It will take around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
If not, you can fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and take a domestic flight from there. It will take around an hour to get to Lien Khuong Airport from there and cost you 105$ (98.11€)
Buses
For those traveling on a budget, there is an option to travel via bus. If you are in Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a sleeper bus that will take 7 hours and cost 9$ (8.41€). As for Nha Trang or Mui Ne, these cities have shuttle vans that can take about 4-5 hours to get you to Dalat City.
Car
Much like any other place, car rentals are easily available in Vietnam as well. If you prefer this form of travel, you can rent a car and drive yourself for an average of 42$ (39.24€)per day. The distance from Ho Chi Minh City is 300 km (6 hours) and the distance from Nha Trang is about 140 km (3 hours).
Transportation and How to Get Around Dalat City?
Once you have arrived in Dalat city, here’s how you can get around.
Taxi
Taxis are quite cheap in Dalat city and they are widely available. Even though Uber doesn’t operate in Vietnam anymore, there are plenty of taxi services.
- Taxi Mai Linh Đà Lạ
- Taxi Mai Linh Đà Lạt – Lâm Đồng
Motorbikes
This is certainly the most common means of transport in Dalat city. You can buy a new motorbike or even get a used one for a lower cost.
Walking
Walking is also a practical option in Dalat City. The city is cool and picturesque, making strolls a good option. However, the chaotic traffic can often be dangerous.
Best Accommodation Options in Dalat City
If you are in Dalat city, you’ll be happy to learn that there are various accommodation options. You can stay in hotels, hostels, and resorts depending on your personal preference.
Best Hotels in Dalat City
Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel
Image credits: Booking.com
Originally built in 1922, this luxury hotel is a remarkable example of French architecture. The elegant and classic interior along with the golf course perfectly depicts French colonialism. You can get a room for 105$ (98.11€) per night.
Dreams hotel
Dreams Hotel is the perfect place if you are looking for cozy corners and affordable rates. They offer free wifi in every room and the close proximity to local sights makes it a good spot. This hotel is best known for its friendly staff and affordable rate of 10.4$ (9.72€) per night.
Hostels
Mr Peace Backpacker’s house
Photo credits: Agoda.com
Much like its name, this hostel is as fun as it gets. It has a vibrant and lively ambiance with a party atmosphere. The rooftop bar and graffiti walls certainly add to the appeal. Other than that, they also offer free beer and breakfast for 3$ (2.80€) a night.
Dalat friendly fun hostel
Photo credits: Tripadvisor.com
Dalat friendly fun hostel lives up to its name and offers a great experience to its visitors. If you are a fan of rustic wooden interiors then this is the best place for you. You can enjoy a free breakfast in front of the fireplace for only 3$ (2.80€) a night.
Resorts
You can enjoy a luxurious stay at one of the many resorts if your budget allows it. While it may not be the most cost-friendly idea for digital nomads in the long term, you can certainly enjoy a short period here and treat yourself.
Make sure to check out:
Internet Connectivity in Dalat City
One of the best parts for digital nomads is that all of Vietnam has a great internet connection. Wifi is available almost everywhere and it has an average speed of 30 Mbps.
If you want a sim card just to be cautious, there are a bunch of providers. Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobiphone cards can be purchased at any electronic store and they offer 20-30 Mbps. They are also available at the bigC mall and FPT cellphone store. However, make sure to remember that data packages are not complimentary with the SIM card. A 5 GB data package can be purchased for around 2$ (1.87€).
It is advised to compare prices before choosing your provider.
Esim
You can also opt for an Esim and avoid the need for a physical SIM card altogether.
Holafly
| Data validity | Days | Price |
| Unlimited data | 7 days | 36$ (34€) |
| Unlimited data | 10 days | 40$ (37€) |
| Unlimited data | 15 days | 50$ (47€) |
| Unlimited data | 20 days | 58$ (54€) |
| Unlimited data | 30 days | 85$ (79€) |
Airalo
| Data validity | Days | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.20€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7$ (6.54€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ (8.88€) |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 13$ (12.15€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 21$ (19.62€) |
5 Best Places to Work from in Dalat City
Coffee culture is extremely famous in Dalat City Vietnam. Luckily, a lot of Vietnamese coffee houses also offer fast wifi and great food.
1. Anna’s Coffee House
Anna’s Coffee House is a friendly place where you can get work done and enjoy a good time. With a wifi speed of 35 Mbps, delicious Mexican food, and comfortable seating, this place is perfect for remote workers. You’ll also appreciate the bookish decor and accessibility of plugs at every table.
2. One More Cafe
One more cafe has an internet speed of 25 Mbps and it has plugs at almost every table. They also have great food and modern architecture. This cafe has a co-working space, suitable for digital nomads.
3. Windmills Coffee
This cafe is a good choice for those who prefer staying loyal to one place. Windmills Coffee offers a 10% discount to its frequent customers along with an internet speed of 35 Mbps. Even though it’s a great working space, keep in mind that they only have a drink menu.
4. Nha Long Cafe
Nha Long Cafe has indoor and outdoor seating options. The vibrant and flowery interior promotes productivity while the 40 Mbps internet speed enables workflow.
5. One More Cafe Coworking Space
Located right above one more cafe, this is the only co-working space in Dalat City as of now. You can sit in the space for free but it is mandatory to buy items from the cafe. You can get everything from sofas and green tea to conference and printing rooms for extra charge. The shared working space has open desks and 35 Mbps internet speed as well.
Cost of Living in Dalat City
| Nomad’s cost of living | $1044/month (€975) |
| Cost of living for a family | $1492/month (€1394) |
| hotel | $461/month (€431) |
| Studio in the city center (1br rent) | $300/month (€280) |
| Airbnb | $948/month (€886) |
| Dinner | $2.37 (€2.21) |
| Beer | $1.15 (€1.07) |
| Taxi | $2.35/trip (€2.20) |
| Coca-cola | $0.57 (€0.53) |
| Coffee | $1.73 (€1.62) |
| Co-working desk | $176/month (€164) |
Essential statistics have shown that Vietnam has an affordable living cost. A standard digital nomad with an average lifestyle can survive within 1000$ (934€)a month.
The cost of living depends on an individual’s lifestyle but this estimate shows the average expected amount.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Dalat City
Dalat is a city best known for its beauty. The city is surrounded by waterfalls, hills, and pine forests that open the opportunity for various outdoor activities. A short motorbike ride can take you around the city and let you explore the beautiful scenery including lakes, local markets, and hiking trails.
Vietnam has a rich culture and the locals are welcoming. Additionally, the friendly expat community makes you feel right at home. Even though English isn’t widely spoken among locals, almost all local restaurants have English-speaking staff.
Dalat City is complete with French-style colonial architecture and enchanting alleys. Since coffee culture is popular in this city, you’ll find trendy cafes, coffee shops, and coffee farms all over the city.
Best Time to Visit Dalat City
Dalat City is known for its pleasant weather. The city is cooler than the rest of Vietnam but still warm enough all year round. The best time to visit falls right between December and March.
This is the time when the city is dry yet cool. You can explore the city in depth, engage in sightseeing, and enjoy outdoor activities. Since the temperature ranges between 19 and 24 degrees Celsius, this is the perfect time to watch the blossoming flowers and cool waterfalls.
12 Best Things to do in Dalat city
1. Visit the crazy house
This innovatively designed hotel is a must-see in Dalat City Vietnam. Built as a giant tree with a dream-like staircase, and colorful animal-themed rooms, this place is the epitome of quirkiness. Even if you don’t want to stay here, you can visit and admire the architecture.
The crazy house has an entrance fee of 2.09$ (1.95€)
2. Dantala waterfall
Dalat city has an abundance of waterfalls but this one has a special element. Dantala Waterfall features an adventurous rollercoaster ride that doesn’t only take you to the base but lets you control the speed as well. You can also walk on the dreamy bridge, people-watch, and admire the smaller waterfalls.
3. Visit a coffee farm
There is no doubt that Vietnam is famous for its world-class coffee. When in Dalat City, make sure to visit one of the coffee farms and learn more about the production process. Here are some of our favorites.
- K’Ho Coffee Farm
- Me Linh Coffee Garden
- Cau Dat Farm.
4. Xuan Huong Lake
Xuan Huong Lake is one of the most admired sights in Dalat City. Since it is located in the center of the city, it is visited by tourists and locals alike. You can go for an afternoon walk, enjoy boating, or even have a picnic. The lake is open every day from 6 am to 6 pm and it doesn’t have an entrance fee. However, it will cost you if you want to rent a bicycle and explore the area.
5. Visit Lang Biang mountain
If you are a nature lover then be sure to visit the Lang Biang peak in Dalat City. This mountain is perfect for a hike or even biking. Once you are at the top, you get to take in the mesmerizing view of Dalat City. This activity is best for days when the weather is pleasant and you are in the mood for some fresh air.
6. Visit Truc Lam Monastery
The Buddhist architecture of this monastery attracts several tourists while the promise of tranquility further intrigues them. You can visit this monastery and join the monks in their day-to-day activities. The experience is complete with walking in the gardens, admiring statues, participating in meditation, and admiring the cool lake.
7. A day at the valley of love
If you are in Dalat City then you must visit the infamous Valley of Love. This is a romantic park with whimsical art and alluring gardens. While it may take some time to explore the full garden, you can even enjoy boating in the swan-shaped boats.
8. Dalat railway station
Dalat railway station is another famous destination that is worth visiting. Designed by French architects in 1932, the station has a historical element. It is perfect for days when you are craving a bustling atmosphere or simply want to people-watch while admiring the architecture.
9. Visit Lumiere Da Lat – Light Garden
Lumiere Da Lat is an entertainment complex and amusement park in Dalat City that promises unparalleled fun. The breathtaking exhibits and installations are something to marvel at. Make sure to catch the light show when you visit here.
10. Lâm Đồng Museum
Lâm Đồng Museum is a local history museum that displays regional and ethical art via artifacts, costumes, and handicrafts. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, make sure to visit this museum.
11. Visit Dinh III Bảo Đại
This two-story mansion is not only a great example of European architecture but it also has historical value. It was built in 1939 and had ties with the Nguyen emperor. Currently, it is considered a famous tourist attraction.
12. Da Lat Cable station
Lastly, there is no better way to explore the city than this. The colorful cable cars run from Robin Hill all the way over to Truc Lam Monastery. You get to see the city along the way and enjoy panoramic views.
Is Dalat City Vietnam safe?
Yes, Dalat City is said to be “safer” than most areas in the country. However, you should remain precautious to avoid petty crimes. It is advised to carry small amounts of money and avoid possession of flashy items.
Visa Requirements in Dalat City
Now that we have discussed all the aspects of Dalat City, let’s talk about some of the technicalities. As a digital nomad, there are some visa requirements you must fulfill. There isn’t a digital nomad visa per se but they offer similar options.
Vietnam is quite accommodating in terms of visas. They have a liberal visa policy and they allow visas on arrival to most nationalities. If you get an approval letter from authorized personnel, the visa on arrival can remain valid for a maximum of 3 months.
You can also get an E visa that remains valid for 30 days at a time and allows single entry.
Conclusion
Dalat City isn’t half as popular among digital nomads as Thailand or Bali but it’s safe to say it’s a treasure overlooked. This place is more famous among honeymooners but as seen above, it has everything a digital nomad will need.
From a good wifi connection, friendly people, and cafes to touristy sights, the scope for outdoor activities, and misty weather, it truly is the “city of eternal spring”.
Make sure to complete your research and learn all the important things before going there as a digital nomad.
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