Last Updated on August 8, 2024
Hoi An remains my favorite town in Vietnam, regardless of how touristy it has become. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Hoi An. I hope you love the town as much as I do!
Rows of shop houses spotting Chinese tiled roofs and yellow stained walls line the narrow alleys. Red lanterns hang from rusty ceilings, while creepy lalang tree branches hang from above. Red-and-green rickshaws stand alongside the traditional five-foot way and local ladies wearing conical straw hats amble along the streets balancing baskets of fruits on their shoulders. By the river banks, old men float on their crumbled wooden boats, waiting for the catch of their day.
This is Hoi An, an ancient city in Vietnam oozing old world charm, offering time travel for the curious ones. Set along the Thu Bon River, Hoi An was an international trading port back in the 17th century – Chinese, Japanese and European traders used to converge here, their traces now seen from the eclectic architecture in the Old Town. In the 18th century, Hoi An was considered to be the best destination for trading in all of Southeast Asia.
Thanks to appropriate measures, the architectural styles in Hoi An have been extremely well preserved, thereby earning the town UNESCO World Heritage status. From the 17th century edifices to the hectic market and calm river banks, the city has an inimitable flair. Naturally it has attracted hordes of tourists, but thankfully it has still retained a sense of identity. Here’s a look at some of our favorite things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam.
Best Things to Do in Hoi An
1. Get Lost in the Old Town
This ancient town will captivate you with its vibrant architecture. The Old Town features European colonial styles alongside traditional Chinese trade houses and shophouses. Known as the Yellow City of Vietnam, Hoi An’s distinctive yellow buildings symbolize royalty and luck in some Asian cultures.
Today, these old shops have been transformed into modern businesses such as tailor shops, souvenir shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. Exploring Hoi An on foot is the best way to revel in its charm, especially during the evening when the lanterns light up the town.
The beautiful architecture evokes a sense of nostalgia, making seeing the old town one of the top things to do in Hoi An. I recommend you take this guided walking tour to learn about the history of the town.
2. Cross the Japanese Bridge
The centerpiece of the Old Town lies the small but historically rich Japanese Bridge, or Chua Cau, built in 1593 by the Japanese community. Spanning across a small stream off that branches off the Thu Bon River, this ancient bridge features a tiled roof and a small temple within, decked out in wooden flooring and faded statues.
It was said that construction of the bridge had begun in the year of the monkey and finished in the year of the dog – thus one end of the bridge is guarded by wooden monkeys and the other by dogs. There is an entry fee of 90,000 dongs ($4.50) for the Old Town – but it entitles you to five of the 18 sites, and one of them is this bridge.
3. Visit the Quan Cong Temple
There are hundreds of temples and assembly halls built by the Chinese expatriate residents together with Viet people. One of the most outstanding temples is Quan Cong Temple, recognized as a “National Historic and Cultural Site” for its well-preserved facade and interior.
The assembly halls were built for the Chinese to socialize and hold meetings. They are typically named after the home region of their members, such as Fujian and Canton. The Cantonese Assembly Hall, or Quang Dong, was built in 1885. Featuring elaborate mural carvings and giant coils of incense, it almost resembles a temple. Take a peek at the half-hidden back yard and its pastel dragon statues.
4. Take a Class at the Hoi An Handicraft Workshop
Housed in the 200-year-old Chinese trading house, the Hoi An Handicraft Workshop deserves a visit mainly for the cultural show (10.15am and 3.15pm) put up by traditional singers, dancers and musicians. While it’s largely touristic, it gives quite an interesting glimpse into Vietnamese traditional artistry. In the backyard, you can browse through the thousands of lanterns, silk embroideries and ceramic hand-made by local artisans. Book your tours here.
5. Get Lost in the Central Market
The bustling Central Market is a mishmash of colors, sounds and smells. Amidst the chaotic lines of stalls, you’ll find ladies selling spices, bright red chilli, silkworms, morning glory leaves, silk pyjamas and plenty of cheap souvenirs. The best time to visit Central Market is early in the morning, before 7am, when the dock is filled with fishermen unloading their catch.
6. Eat Street Food
They are everywhere in Vietnam, especially here in Hoi An – temporary food stands, displaying fresh baguette and rice noodles, with mini-stools and plastic tables cluttered around them. Crouching on these tiny chairs, eating a bowl of Pho with wooden chopsticks, is an experience on its own.
There’s a row of street food stalls around the riverfront boulevard of Bach Dang, as well as alleys running perpendicular to Tran Phu. By night, the glowing lights of the colorful lanterns seen all over town make dining out at these stalls even more atmospheric.
Hoi An is especially famous for these two dishes: cao lau, a doughy rice noodles topped with roast pork and fritters; ad white rose (banh bao), shrimp dumpling wrapped with white dough and drenched in spicy fish sauce.
7. Learn to Make a Lantern
Making a lantern in Hoi An is a delightful experience that immerses you in the rich cultural heritage of this charming Vietnamese town. On my trip, I saw so many lanterns which ultimately piqued my interest in the craft.
The process involves selecting colorful silk fabrics, carefully shaping bamboo frames, and assembling the pieces with meticulous attention to detail. As you create your lantern, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this ancient art form. The best part is you get to take home a beautiful, handmade souvenir that captures the enchanting spirit of Hoi An.
To make a lantern from scratch is quite challenging but rewarding. Hoi An offers workshops where you can learn the traditional craft from skilled artisans. I recommend you take this 2.5 lantern-making class to master the art.
8. Try Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose)
I have always made it a habit to try out a local cuisine every time I go to a new destination. Hoi An was my chance to taste banh bao banh vac, a dish I had seen all over my Instagram feed over the past few years. Banh Bao Banh Vac is an iconic culinary specialty renowned for its exquisite presentation and intricate flavors.
Known affectionately as “White Rose”, this dish resembles a blooming rose. Highly appreciated by locals, Banh Bao Banh Vac comprises two distinct types of dumplings traditionally served together, each with its unique filling. Banh Vac delights with a rich and fragrant taste, featuring a filling of shrimp, garlic, spring onion, lemongrass, and various spices.
For the best White Rose, I recommend visiting Morning Glory Restaurant along 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.
9. Get a Suit Tailored
Often hailed as the tailoring capital of Asia, Hoi An offers an unparalleled experience for anyone looking to have personalized clothing made. The town’s rich history as a Silk Road trading port is evident in the hundreds of tailoring shops that line its charming streets. When my husband and I decided to have some garments tailored, we were astounded by the sheer number of options available.
Every other store seemed dedicated to crafting the clothes. With a bit of savvy shopping—checking out fabrics, haggling prices, and comparing different shops—we managed to secure high-quality clothing at a fantastic price.
We ended up getting a dress and a suit done at two notable tailors, Phong Cach Thoi Trang and Fai Foo, both located on Tan Hung Dao Street. Finding these two particular shops isn’t easy but joining this 7-hour guided tour will offer you a seamless tailoring experience in Hoi An.
10. Join a Cooking Class
Cooking classes in Hoi An are a delightful culinary adventure, with numerous options tending to different schedules and interests. Many of these classes include a visit to a local market, a scenic boat trip, and some even feature excursions to traditional craft villages. Most of the restaurants in Hoi An offer these enriching classes but staying on top of what to expect will save you several pain points.
Check for specifics such as; what activities are included, whether there are vegan options, and the class duration to find the perfect fit. On my trip, I took this 4.5 cooking class and it was definitely the highlight of my trip. I learned how to make Vietnamese crepes from scratch. I occasionally make these at home for my daughter.
11. Take a Boat Ride On Thu Bon River
Seeing Hoi An by the beautiful Thu Bon River is an enchanting experience that you’ll never forget. From the old town, you can easily walk to the river, where you’ll find several local boats waiting to take you on this exceptional ride.
You’ll see the bustling riverside craft villages, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant life of the town. The boat ride leads past Thanh Ha’s pottery workshops, Phuoc Kieu’s bronze casting artisans, Tra Que’s vegetable gardens, Ma Chau’s silk producers, and Phu Chiem’s rice paper makers.
If you have time to spare, venture to Cam Thanh Village and paddle through the serene coconut forest in a traditional basket boat. For a seamless experience across Hoi An, I recommend you take this 6-hour guided tour from Hoi An.
12. Visit the Hoi An Night Market
The Hoi An Night Market is a captivating spectacle and one of the best things to do in Hoi An. The night market runs from 5 PM to 10 PM and is located just past the Japanese bridge. Here, you’ll find hundreds of glowing lanterns and several vendors selling everything from food, jewelry, clothes, handicrafts, trinkets, and accessories.
The market is a lively hub for families, couples, and photographers alike and often gets pretty crowded. Nevertheless, the experience is worth every shove. For foodies, there are two rows of food stalls that serve up several delicious dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Hoi An cuisine.
If you hate crowds or want a more intimate experience, plan your visit between 7 PM and 9:30 PM, when the crowds start to thin. On my trip, I took this guided tour from Da Nang and it was a seamless experience.
13. Head to Reaching Out Tea House
If you want a dose of quiet or perhaps are tired of the bustle of Hoi An, a trip to Reaching Out Tea House is the perfect remedy. Reaching Out Tea House is run by dedicated individuals with hearing and speech impairments. The charming tea house is a haven of serenity, where silence is upheld and communication takes on a creative form using speech cubes and body language.
As soon as you step inside, you’re enveloped in a soothing bubble of calm, where even the faintest whisper is a rarity. A must-try here is Jasmine Green Tea. I was blown away by its divine aroma and it was hands down my favorite tea.
But for a taste of all of Hoi An’s unique hot beverages, I recommend this 4-hour guided tour. On this tour, you’ll taste 3 different types of Vietnamese coffee and see all the major landmarks of the town.
14. Pose at Ba Mu Temple (Lady Temple) Gates
Hoi An Ancient Town is known for its historic temples, but in my opinion, the Lady Temple is the most outstanding of them all. Located along Hai Ba Trung Street near the Japanese Bridge, this temple is both a sacred place of worship and a great selfie spot. Also known as Ba Mu Temple, the Lady Temple was constructed in 1626 and showcases classic Vietnamese architectural style with its stunning three-gated pagoda.
The old temple’s intricately colored complex features a distinctive round open circle flanked by two grand doors. Although it has only recently opened its doors to the public, it has quickly become a popular tourist attraction and a favorite spot for memorable photos. Learn about the history of the temple by joining this Hoi An/Da Nang guided tour.
15. Head to Precious Art Gallery
Located in the Old Town, the Precious Heritage Museum and Art Gallery is one of the best things to do in Hoi An. The beautiful catalog by Réhahn is a captivating tribute to Vietnam’s diverse ethnic tribes. For eight years, Réhahn captured the essence of 51 out of the 54 remaining tribes through a series of poignant photographs.
The museum also showcases traditional ethnic costumes, offering a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural history. As a unique, free-to-visit institution, it is a celebration of these remarkable tribes and a poignant call for their preservation. I discovered the beautiful museum while on this food tour in the old town.
16. Make Silk in the Hoi An Silk Village
Once a bustling hub of the Maritime Silk Route, Hoi An’s vibrant silk production came to a halt a century ago. Fortunately, a few years ago, the Quang Nam Silk Joint Stock Company revitalized this historic village, allowing tourists to explore its intricate weaving traditions. The village is located along 28 Nguyen Tat Thanh in Quang Nam Province.
Today, the village is the reenactment of the historic age of silk-making. While here, you’ll learn the entire process; from cultivating mulberries and raising silkworms to reeling and weaving the final product. For a seamless experience, I recommend this half-day guided tour.
17. Wander around the Rice Paddies
Weaving our way out of the Old Town on our rented scooter (just $5 a day), we found ourselves in the countryside very quickly, surrounded by emerald green rice paddies. The scenes along the drive are almost poetic – old ladies wearing the iconic Vietnamese hat bend their backs to work the fields; young men lead herds of water buffaloes across the greenery; while children fly their kites sky-high amidst the paddies. It’s refreshing to know just minutes away from the bustling town are vast stretches of green grass and Vietnam’s back country.
18. Attend the Hoi An Lantern Festival
Held on the 14th day of the lunar month, the Hoi An Lantern Festival transforms the town into a mesmerizing spectacle. The monthly event often coincides with the full moon. The full moon is a sacred time in the Buddhist calendar and has been celebrated for centuries as a period of transformation.
During the festival, Hoi An at night becomes a scene of pure enchantment. The river is obscured by the glowing lanterns and boats, creating an almost magical ambiance. Locals gather to release paper lanterns onto the river, each one carrying a wish. All fluorescent lights are switched off, allowing the floating lanterns to cast a serene, otherworldly glow over the town.
The festival atmosphere is further enhanced by musical performances featuring bamboo flutes, drums, and fiddles. You’ll also find locals playing board games and engaging in Bai Choi, a musical version of bingo. For an unforgettable experience, I recommend this private night boat trip on the Hoi An River.
19. Cycle Through the Countryside
Cycling in Hoi An is an immersive experience, especially when scouring through the famous rice fields in the countryside. Just a ten-minute ride from the center, the countryside unfolds into a picturesque landscape best seen on two wheels. Narrow paths weave through lush green rice fields, where you’ll find locals and their water buffaloes walking the land.
Besides the rice fields, you can easily reach nearby beaches and other attractions. There are several bike rentals dotted across town. Prices vary depending on the rental, bike, and rental duration but expect to pay between 25,000 and 300,000 VND per bike per day.
On my trip, I rented one from Hoi An Cycling. The premium rental charges 300,000 VND ($11.84) per mountain bike for the day. However, if you’re a group of friends or family, then taking this half-day biking tour will save you some bucks and elevate your experience in Hoi An.
20. Chill On An Bang Beach
On my visit to Hoi An, I discovered and spent a few delightful afternoons at An Bang Beach. Often touted as the best in Hoi An, the beach is a beautiful adventure you’ll remember long after you board the plane back home. However, I use the term ‘best’ loosely. When compared to the pristine beaches of other parts of Asia, An Bang might feel a bit underwhelming.
For one, the beach can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. Secondly, the water here isn’t crystal clear. Despite these drawbacks, An Bang is still worth the visit. Once there, I recommend grabbing a lounger at Soul Kitchen or nearby restaurants, where you can enjoy lunch and cocktails.
The loungers are free with any purchase. To reach the beach, take a taxi from town for around VND 80,000 (about $3) or you can opt for a bike ride. But if you plan on visiting other parts of the town then I recommend you take this 10-hour guided tour from Hoi An.
Day Trips from Hoi An
The beautiful Hoi An is a lovely city with so much historical significance. But beyond the city borders lies several day trips that should elevate your vacation to Vietnam. Here are the best day trips from Hoi An;
21. Take a Basket Ride in Cam Thanh Village
Located 5 km east of Hoi An’s Old Town, Cam Thanh Village is a delightful day trip you shouldn’t miss out on. The expansive coconut forests that stretch for hundreds of hectares will be the first thing to captivate your senses. Hailed as the “land of steel” by the locals, this village is home to rice fields, traditional handicraft production, and remnants of a once fierce battleground.
It is also a remarkable opportunity to immerse in authentic local culture. The locals here sustain their livelihoods through traditional crafts, including fishing net weaving, basket boat making, coconut handicraft production, and palm house construction. These crafts have been passed down through generations since the 15th century.
For an unforgettable time here, take a basket boat ride across the village’s waterways. The sight of fish swimming below you and storks nesting above gives it a surreal feeling. I took this 1-hour guided tour and it was an unforgettable trip.
22. Explore the Theme Park at Ba Na Hills
Located about 1.5 hours northwest of Hoi An, Ba Na Hills in Da Nang is a wonderful day trip, particularly if you’re visiting Vietnam with kids. It’s the perfect family adventure spot, starting with an exhilarating cable car ride that offers stunning 360-degree views of Danang and the sea.
Upon reaching the top, the charming French Village awaits. It’s complete with a town square, quaint cafes, a cathedral, and a fountain, making it feel like a slice of medieval Europe. The picturesque setting, with cobbled streets and vintage decor, is ideal for those memorable family photos.
For the kids, the excitement continues at Fantasy Park. This massive entertainment area with three floors of fun should elevate their vacation. Level One features video arcades, a mirror maze, and bumper cars. Level Two offers 3D, 4D, and 5D cinemas, while Level Three boasts an immersive 3D, 360-degree mega-cinema.
Lastly, head to the iconic Golden Bridge, a 150-meter span held by two giant hands. I had seen this all over my Instagram for years. So, when I finally visited Vietnam, I made sure to make a trip to see the beautiful bridge. You’ll pay a small fee to access all these areas of Ba Na Hills. However, joining this guided tour should offer a seamless experience.
23. Explore the M? S?n Temples
For history buffs, the beautiful town of M? S?n, located 40 km (1 hour) from Hoi An, is the most obvious destination. It’s one place I hadn’t really heard too much about prior to my trip. But when I was researching Vietnam and how I would spend my time there, it was a resounding staple.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this sanctuary comprises a collection of abandoned and ruined Hindu temples. Think of it as a smaller, Vietnamese Angkor Wat. Despite the ravages of time and significant devastation during the Vietnam War, M? S?n retains a profound cultural significance.
With some temples dating back to the 4th century, the sanctuary is an impressive historic site that shouldn’t miss on your itinerary. For a seamless transfer from Hoi An, I recommend you take this guided tour.
Hoi An Travel Guide
How To Get To Hoi An
There’s no airport in Hoi An, so you’ll access the town via Da Nang Airport (DAD) which is located about 29 km north. The airport facilitates about 150 flights every day, making it the best entry point if you are visiting Hoi An.
However, expect to pay between $2000 and $3000 for a flight from New York. The cheapest flight goes for as low as $1,373 but you will spend more time in transit. From the Da Nang Airport, you’ll then take a taxi or bus ride to Hoi An for about 45-60 minutes.
How To Get Around Hoi An
By Taxi
Taxis are an efficient way to get around Hoi An. The main taxi service in the town is Mai Linh (green). The company uses meters for tariffing rides. In Hoi An, taxi costs vary depending on distance.
Expect to spend about 10,000 VND ($0.39) for the first kilometer and about 15,000 VND ($0.59) per kilometer for the next 30 kilometers. From the 31st kilometer, the fare reduces to 11,000 VND ($0.43).
By Bus
Buses are another great way to get around Hoi An and see the neighboring towns. Most bus services run between Da Nang and Hoi An, and charge around $8 for a single trip.
But prices vary depending on the service provider and destination. Nevertheless, taking the bus is undoubtedly the cheapest mode of transport in Hoi An and generally Vietnam.
When to Visit Hoi An
The best time to visit Hoi An largely depends on what experience you seek. Hoi An experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which is divided into 2 seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season (February to August) features pleasant balmy weather, making it the high season.
For the most pleasant experience, plan your trip between February and April when Hoi An enjoys mild temperatures, light sunshine, and minimal rain. It’s the most ideal time for exploring the city’s ancient streets and cultural sites. From May to August, the warm sunshine and little rain create perfect conditions for enjoying Hoi An’s beaches.
If you hate crowds and don’t mind the occasional downpour, plan your trip in the wet season (September to January). However, be prepared for heavy rains, typhoons, and occasional floods. The weather patterns in the wet season are quite unpredictable, so check the weather forecast regularly to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Where to Stay in Hoi An
Choosing where to stay in Hoi An depends on your preferences for ambiance, convenience, and activities. You can opt to stay in the Old Town, Minh An, Cam Pho, Son Phong, or Cam Chau. For first-timers, I recommend the Cam Chau area.
Situated east of the Ancient Town along a river, Cam Chau is a serene area but still within biking distance from the town. On our recent trip, we stayed here and the area’s calm atmosphere made it a worthwhile experience.
Budget: Cozy An Boutique Hotel Hoian
The newly built 4-star hotel in Cam Chau is a wonderful spot to lay low and get some rest after an eventful day. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk east of the Ancient Town. While here, you can enjoy an array of amenities including an on-site restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. As is common in Hoi An, a complimentary breakfast buffet and bicycle rental are also included. Check the rates here.
Mid-range: Little Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa
This charming 4-star retreat is located within the Minh An area. It’s found along the banks of the Thu Bon River and just next to the night market. The hotel has a fitness center and spa facilities for relaxation. For beach bums, complimentary shuttle services to An Bang Beach are available three to four times a day. Check the rates here.
Luxury: Hotel Royal Hoi An
Found in Cam Pho, the luxurious hotel offers an exquisite blend of modern elegance and traditional charm. This opulent hotel has beautifully appointed rooms with stunning views of the Thu Bon River and the vibrant cityscape. While here, you’ll be treated to top-notch amenities, including a rooftop pool, a world-class spa, and gourmet dining options. Check the rates here.
Where to Eat in Hoi An
Hoi An is a gourmet treasure trove cutting across the heart of Vietnam’s culinary heritage. Hoi An has lately seen a surge in food spots opening their doors for business. Here are some of the best places to eat in Hoi An;
Morning Glory
If you’re searching for a standout dining experience in Hoi An, Morning Glory Restaurant should be at the top of your list. The popular spot offers a delightful array of classic Hoi An and Vietnamese dishes.
The restaurant also features a cooking school, allowing you to dive deeper into the culinary traditions of the region. Be sure to savor their Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose), a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Hoi An’s rich and vibrant food culture. Read reviews here.
Vy’s Market
I stumbled upon Vy’s Market thanks to a friend who had taken a cooking class there, and I was blown away by its concept. Rather than the traditional restaurant, Vy’s Market is simply a hall with a variety of tables served by different vendors.
The market vendors offer an array of Hoi An specialties and Vietnamese classics, from hand-made noodles to unique dumplings. It’s also a wonderful spot to try out something new. So, if you’ve ever wanted to try something like jellyfish or pig brain, this is definitely the place to do it. Read reviews here.
Mango Mango
Right after you cross the Hoi An bridge, you’ll spot Mango Mango on the corner near the night market. It is on the pricier end when it comes to restaurants in Hoi An but it’s absolutely worth every penny. Opt for a seat at their side-bar counter in the evening for an excellent spot to watch the night market.
While Mango Mango does offer some traditional Vietnamese dishes, it’s more renowned for its seafood offerings. The restaurant also serves well-crafted cocktails and intriguing ice-tea options for those who don’t want alcohol. Read the reviews here.
Cost of Travel in Hoi An
Hoi An is no longer the quaint and unknown Vietnamese city. Over the years, the city has had a meteoric rise but is still relatively affordable compared to other tourist traps in Asia. For a self-guided trip to Hoi An, the total cost can vary depending on your starting point and trip duration.
For a 3-day, 2-night trip starting from De Nang, expect to spend between 4,500,000 (around $177) to 4,800,000 VND (around $189) per person. This includes transportation and additional expenses like food and admissions. For a shorter 2-day, 1-night trip, costs typically range from 3,600,000 (around $141) to 4,000,000 VND (around $157) per person.
Further Reading on Vietnam
There’s definitely no shortage of things to do in Hoi An — just make sure you spend at least one week here to experience everything on this list. Vietnam is one of the coolest places we’ve been, and Hoi An was a great stopover. If you’re looking to read more on Vietnam and other parts of Asia, check out these articles:
We hope our travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Hoi An! Let us know if you have any questions about Hoi An below.
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