Welcome to Hoi An, Vietnam – a destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and undeniable charm. Hoi An is nestled along the picturesque riverbank, and it is one of the most beautiful towns in Vietnam, due to its Japanese, Chinese, and French influences, which is evident in its lantern-lit streets. The harmonious coexistence of traditional wooden structures and colonial buildings painted in hues of yellow are picture-perfect and will have you staring at them in awe. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An has meticulously preserved its rich history. You’re in for a very unique experience!
Continue reading to unveil the top treasures and hidden gems that make Hoi An an irresistible destination.
10 Amazing Things to Do in Hoi An
Stroll through Hoi An’s streets
Take your time to explore the town and wander through its picturesque streets. Start your journey from the riverbank and make your way slowly towards the old town. As night falls, the ancient town transforms into a wonderland, with the soft glow of countless lanterns creating a magical ambiance. The narrow alleys that are decorated with vibrant lanterns create a romantic scene that feels like stepping into a dream. The traditional Japanese, Chinese, and French architecture, combined with the warm glow of the lanterns, will transport you to a bygone era.
Explore the Local Markets
Hoi An’s local markets are a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture. The first thing that you will notice is the explosion of colors, followed by tempting aromas and the energetic pulse of daily life. Take in the lively atmosphere, as you navigate through the stalls where vendors offer fresh produce, aromatic spices, and handmade crafts. After your exploration, enjoy mouth-watering local delicacies and street food that will tickle your taste buds.
Take a Cooking Class
This is a fantastic opportunity to get to know the food culture in Vietnam interactively. During the cooking class, you’ll not only gain insights into how Vietnam’s history has influenced its culinary traditions but also discover the secrets behind crafting some of its iconic dishes. We’re thinking of mouthwatering Pho and Banh Xeo that simply melt in your mouth. It’s a cool experience that goes beyond tasting, allowing you to actively participate in creating these amazing dishes.
Cruise the Thu Bon River
Experience Hoi An through a different perspective, by embarking on a magical cruise along the Thu Bon River. Flowing through Hoi An Ancient Town, the river is bordered by some of the city’s most renowned landmarks, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and Hoi An Central Market. Tours are offered at various times throughout the day, but the magical ambiance of Hoi An truly shines when it is illuminated by lanterns in the evening. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you book an evening tour. Easily one of the best things to do in Hoi An.
Savor Local Delicacies
It’s easy to become a foodie in Vietnam! To fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Hoi An means exploring its vibrant food scene and indulging in as many local delicacies as your stomach can handle. Kickstart your culinary adventure by visiting the charming local tea houses. As the day unfolds, don’t forget to make frequent pit stops at various street food vendors to savor the delicious delights. Just a friendly tip: be sure to have some cash on hand!
Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour
Hoi An Old Town is striking and it’s easy to get lost in the tiny streets as you admire the architecture of the vibrant buildings. Why not elevate that experience by choosing a walking tour that will offer you some insight into the history behind those marvelous buildings? Walking tours are very informative, and fun and also offer the opportunity to mingle with fellow travelers if you opt for a group tour. No better way to explore a town than through the eyes of a local.
Visit the Japanese Bridge
The famous Japanese Bridge is a landmark and undeniably one of the best things to do in Hoi An. Built in the 18th century, this iconic bridge extends over the Thu Bon River, connecting the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the town. Its unique architecture features intricate carvings that seamlessly blend Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences. As one of the busiest spots in Hoi An, we suggest visiting early in the morning for a chance to appreciate its beauty with fewer crowds. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique gem!
Day trip to Da Nang
Grab your towel and your swimsuit and head to Da Nang for a fun day by the beach! Da Nang is located a short 30-40 minute drive from Hoi An and it’s perfect for a day trip. Head to My Khe Beach and enjoy swimming, soaking up the sun, or doing watersports. Before you return to Hoi An, make sure to try one of the awesome vegan restaurants located nearby, such as Roots Plant-based Cafe. Their Japanese Nori Bowl is sensational!
Admire the architecture of Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien Temple
Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien temple is picture-perfect thanks to its Chinese-influenced architecture and vibrant red and gold colors.
If you are interested in entering the temple you might need a ticket which can be purchased either from the tourist information center located at Tran Phu Street and Hoang Dieu Street intersection or from various selling booths scattered around the outskirts of the Old Town. The entrance ticket for Hoi An Old Town costs 120,000 VND (5 USD) per person. It’s worth noting that the ticket is technically mandatory for Old Town entry, but rarely enforced.
Bà Mụ Temple
Take a minute to marvel at the elaborate design of the magnificent Bà Mụ Temple, with its vivid colors, intricate carvings, and serene setting. This historic temple is tucked away in the center of Huế and is a reminder of the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Vietnam. Dedicated to Bà Mụ, the Heavenly Lady, the temple is a truly fascinating place if you’re interested in learning about Vietnam’s rich history.
How to get to Hoi An
By Air
Located in Central Vietnam, the most convenient way to get to Hoi An is to fly there. If you arrive by air, Da Nang International Airport serves as the main gateway, just a scenic 30-minute drive away. There are several internal flights connecting Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. From there, you can catch a taxi which will quickly transport you to Hoi An. You can either grab one of the taxis that are parked at the airport or you can use the Grab app which operates in the entire country and book your taxi when you land.
Bus
Alternatively, you can opt for the bus which costs roughly 6 EUR and you’ll reach Hoi An in 45 minutes. You can buy your ticket in advance from 12Go Asia, for a stress-free trip. This is by far the most budget-friendly way to get to Hoi An from Da Nang.
Train
For a more leisurely approach, consider an overnight bus or train ride. They both run from different locations across Vietnam. They’ll both offer you a glimpse into Vietnam’s picturesque countryside and allow you to immerse yourself in the lush landscapes before arriving at Hoi An’s historic waterfront.
How far is Hoi An from Da Nang
Hoi An is located in Southeast Vietnam, approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Da Nang. Depending on traffic and the type of transportation you opt for, the average driving time between these two cities is between 30 and 45 minutes.
Hanoi to Hoi An
When traveling by car, the distance between Hanoi and Hoi An is roughly 800 kilometers or 500 miles. Since the trip by car can take anywhere from 14 to 16 hours, depending on traffic and transportation circumstances, the most popular ways to get between these two cities are by plane or train. If you choose to take a flight, the journey is much shorter, typically lasting between 1.5 and 2 hours.
How to get around Hoi An
Hoi An is a very walkable city, which is part of its charm if you ask us. So, our preferred means of transportation is usually our own two feet! Having said that, there are several other choices when it comes to moving around Hoi An. Here are some ideas for getting around the city.
Walking
As we mentioned above, walking is one of the best ways to see Hoi An. Because of the city’s small size, the majority of its attractions are reachable by foot. This will give you the advantage of exploring the city’s smaller streets and taking in the unique architecture and quaint streets while strolling about.
Cycle
Riding a bicycle is the second best way to travel around Hoi An. Bicycle rentals are available from many hotels and guesthouses, some of them offer them to their guests for free! Alternatively, you can rent one from many stores dotted across the town. Walking will only get you so far, but biking is a wonderful way to also see the surrounding areas.
Motorcycle
Motorcycles offer a convenient way to move around Hoi An and its surroundings if you’re comfortable doing so. Don’t forget, you will need a driver’s license to rent one. Motorcycle rentals are available from many stores in the town, and they’re a popular option if you are interested in visiting Da Nang for the day or exploring its nearby beaches.
Where to stay in Hoi An
This is one of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, so if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Hoi An, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Depending on your budget and the type of accommodation that best suits you, here are a few of our recommendations.
A great choice of places to stay in Hoi An if you’re on a tight budget is staying at one of the numerous guesthouses in the Old Town. These guesthouses are a terrific choice if you’re trying to cut costs on your vacation as they provide basic accommodation at affordable prices.
There are many upscale resorts in Hoi An if you want to pamper yourself with a luxury experience. Top-notch amenities including spa treatments, gourmet dining options, and swimming pools are available at these resorts, making it an ideal option for families with kids.
A homestay might be a good option if you want a more genuine experience. An excellent approach to getting a glimpse into the local way of life and seeing Hoi An like a native through homestays. We stayed at D Central Hoi An Homestay and we can’t recommend it enough! The hosts were very lovely and they gave us a bunch of recommendations of local insights about the city.
Make sure to book your accommodation in advance, regardless of where you decide to stay in Hoi An. Especially during peak tourist season!
Where to eat in Hoi An
Best Restaurants
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, head to one of Hoi An’s best restaurants. Some of the top picks include:
- Morning Glory: This popular restaurant serves up a range of traditional Vietnamese dishes, including pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls. The menu changes regularly to reflect the season and availability of ingredients, so you’re always in for a surprise.
- Mango Rooms: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Mango Rooms is the place to go. The menu offers a combination of Vietnamese, Thai, and Caribbean flavors, with dishes like coconut curry and jerk chicken. Yum!
- Vy’s Market Restaurant and Cooking School: For an interactive dining experience, sign up for a cooking class at Vy’s Market Restaurant. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and then sit down to enjoy your creations.
Street Food
If you’re on a budget or just want to sample some of Hoi An’s famous street food, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best street food vendors include:
- Banh Mi Phuong: This humble sandwich shop has gained a cult following thanks to its delicious banh mi. Choose from various fillings, including pork, chicken, and tofu, and enjoy your sandwich on the go.
- Cao Lau: This noodle dish is unique to Hoi An. It is made with thick, chewy noodles, slices of pork, and fresh herbs. Look for street vendors selling cao lau in the Old Town.
- Banh Beo: These steamed rice cakes are a popular snack in Hoi An and can be bought from several street vendors across the city. They’re topped with dried shrimp, scallions, and crispy pork fat, and are best enjoyed with a cold beer.
How many days in Hoi An
Despite being a small town, Hoi An offers a wide variety of great things to do and see. That being said if you like to tour the historic town, one to two days should be enough. You’ll have plenty of time to see the landmarks and historical sites, stroll through the streets, and try some local food.
If you stay for three or four days you’ll be able to explore more of the surrounding area. Take advantage of this time, to go on a bike trip around the countryside, join a cooking class, or visit Da Nang to soak up the sun at the nearby sandy beaches.
Best time to visit Hoi An
The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to May. The weather is dry and pleasant, creating great conditions for an enjoyable visit. These months offer perfect weather for discovering Hoi An. On the other hand, if you wish to avoid crowds and prefer a more relaxed experience, plan your visit between September and January, which are considered off-peak months. During this period, the weather is cooler, creating an ideal atmosphere for strolls around the city with fewer tourists around.
Is Hoi An worth visiting?
Definitely yes! We had the most amazing time in Hoi An and we’d go back in a heartbeat. The city’s magical vibe, unique architecture, and historical sites are truly one of a kind. Top that up with the incredibly luscious cuisine and you’ve got the perfect travel destination. Finally, although Hoi An is not by the sea, it is idyllically located a short distance from Da Nang, which offers exceptional beaches.
Ready to kick off your trip planning? Check out these handy travel resources:
