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Hoi An is a small town with a rare mix of remarkably preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, a rich culinary scene, craft traditions, and easy countryside escapes. Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore world heritage site treasures or a foodie craving the best banh mi and local delicacies, Hoi An offers something for everyone.
Its unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences is evident throughout the town, reflecting its past as a bustling trading port. Beyond the ancient streets, you’ll find vibrant local life, serene river views, and welcoming communities that make every visit memorable.
This guide covers classic attractions, practical things to do, and a few hidden gems so you can visit Hoi An at your own pace.
1. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town on Foot
Photo Credit: Huy Thoai
Hoi An was designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1999 due to its well-preserved ancient town, which showcases a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences from its time as a major trading port.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town features over 1,100 timber-frame buildings, making it one of the best-preserved trading towns in Asia, with a rich history dating back to the 15th century.
The best way to explore Hoi An is on foot or by bicycle, as the Ancient Town is compact and traffic-free, making it ideal for leisurely exploration. Wander Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and Bach Dang in the early morning, then return after dark for old town Hoi An reflections on the Thu Bon River.
2. See the Lanterns & Riverfront After Dark
After sunset, Hoi An Ancient Town glows with silk lamps, shopfronts, festival boats, and lantern-lit streets along the Thu Bon River.
The Hoi An Lantern Festival occurs on the day of the full moon, transforming the town into a vibrant display of colorful lanterns and candles, creating a magical atmosphere. Walk near An Hoi Bridge, then slip into narrow streets behind the waterfront to find a cozy bar or cafe when crowds build.
3. Take a Sampan Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River
Waterways have always dictated life in Hoi An, making boat trips a staple for visitors. A sampan boat ride at sunset or after dark is one of the most iconic Hoi An activities.
Most rides last about 20 minutes in small boats for 2–4 people; pay cash at the riverside near An Hoi Bridge, and use official booths where present.
Releasing lanterns on the Thu Bon River is a popular activity during the Full Moon Festival, where locals and tourists make wishes as they watch the glowing orbs float downstream.
4. Get Lost in Hoi An’s Temples & Assembly Halls
Hoi An’s temples and assembly halls show how Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and trading communities shaped the old town.
The Assembly Hall of Fujian Chinese, built in the 17th century, serves as a temple for Chinese residents in Hoi An and is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance. Be sure to visit Quan Cong Temple and Ba Mu Temple Gate as well if you have time.
Remember to cover shoulders and knees, speak quietly, and ask before photographing worshippers while visiting temples.
5. Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Covered Bridge is Hoi An’s most famous landmark, linking the former Japanese and Chinese quarters. Built in the early 17th century, this is a significant cultural landmark in Hoi An, reflecting the town’s historical connections with Japan and featuring intricate carvings and sculptures.
Visit very early in the morning for photos or at night when it is lit. Access rules can change during renovations, so confirm whether crossing or entering the inner shrine is possible.
6. Join a Lantern-Making Workshop
Hoi An is internationally famous for preserving centuries-old traditional crafts, and lanterns are the easiest craft to take home.
A lantern-making class at studios such as The Lantern Lady usually takes 1–1.5 hours. You choose a frame, pick fabric, glue, and assemble the lantern, then fold it for travel.
It’s creative, calm, good for kids, and useful when hot and humid Hoi An weather or rain makes outdoor wandering less appealing.
7. Eat Your Way Through Hoi An’s Street Food
Hoi An has unique regional dishes that differ from those of the rest of Vietnam due to its historical trade influences. If you love Vietnamese food, build an evening crawl through the central markets, food stalls, cute cafes, and lanes off Tran Phu.
There are many unique local dishes to try, including cao lau, a noodle dish made with water from a specific ancient well, and white rose dumplings, which are delicate steamed parcels.
Street food tours in Hoi An are highly recommended for sampling local specialties, allowing visitors to taste dishes such as crispy stuffed pancakes (banh xeo) and mi quang, a turmeric-infused noodle dish.
The banh mi sandwich, a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, is a must-try in Hoi An, with Madam Khanh, known as the Banh Mi Queen, being a popular spot for this dish. For other banh mi spots, choose busy stalls with fast turnover and cooked-to-order plates to ensure food is fresh and safe.
8. Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class
A cooking class is one of the best things to do in Hoi An if you want to understand Vietnamese cuisine beyond menus. Classes often start with a visit to a local market or Tra Que Vegetable Village, then move into hands-on cooking.
Expect to make traditional dishes, including spring rolls, banh xeo, cao lau, or mi quang. Many operators adjust spice levels and offer vegetarian menus, so be sure to mention dietary requirements before you book.
9. Cycle Through the Rice Paddies & Countryside
Cycling balances busy Hoi An Old Town with quiet lanes, water buffalo, and emerald rice paddies. Many hotels and guesthouses in Hoi An offer complimentary bicycles for guests, making it easy to explore the town and surrounding countryside.
Ride toward Tra Que, Coconut Village, or An Bang to get a broader understanding of this picture-perfect destination. Or, for a fun day out, join a bike tour with noodle-making, mat-weaving, or fishing stops.
10. Relax on An Bang Beach
Photo Credit: monticello
An Bang Beach is Hoi An’s main coastal escape, located about 3 miles from Ancient Town. Here, you’ll find seafood shacks, umbrellas, music in some areas, and quieter stretches farther north.
March to August is best for swimming because the seas can turn rough during the rainy season. Cua Dai Beach, also called Dai Beach, is another coastal option, though erosion has changed some sections.
11. Drift in a Basket Boat in the Coconut Forest
Visitors can enjoy a unique experience by taking a ride in a traditional coconut basket boat near Bay Mau Coconut Forest and Cam Thanh Village. These trips involve paddling through nipa palms, crab-fishing demos, and sometimes loud spinning performances.
For a reputable private tour experience, consider operators such as Jack Tran Tours, especially if combining the ride with countryside stops.
12. Snorkel or Dive Around the Cham Islands
The Cham Islands are a marine-protected group off the coast, usually reached from Cua Dai pier. A typical day trip includes a speedboat, snorkeling or diving, lunch, and beach time.
Trips are best from roughly April to August, but may be canceled in rough seas. Wherever possible, choose eco-conscious operators that avoid reef damage and unnecessary plastics.
13. Have Clothes Tailor-Made
Hoi An is famous for its custom tailoring, with many skilled tailors offering high-quality, made-to-order clothing at reasonable prices. Bring photos, choose fabrics, get measured, and allow time for 1–2 fittings over 1–3 days near the start of your trip.
Popular pieces include linen shirts, suits, dresses, and traditional Vietnamese ao dai. Agree on details in writing, read reviews, and avoid starting the process on your last night.
14. Drink Coffee or Cocktails on a Rooftop
Rooftops around the old town and the river are ideal for watching the light shift over Hoi An. When you need a break, slow down with ca phe sua da or coconut coffee above the busy streets of Hoi An.
At night, many cafés become cocktail bars with views of the Thu Bon River and the Cau An Bridge. It makes a huge difference after a long day of walking. One standout spot is Market Bar, known for its creative cocktails, lively atmosphere, and prime riverfront location.
15. Visit Da Nang for a City & Beach Contrast
Photo Credit: Tomsickova Tatyana
Just an hour’s ride from Hoi An, Da Nang bursts with vibrant city energy, stunning long beaches, iconic bridges, and a lively nightlife scene that pulses well into the night.
This dynamic city offers a diverse culinary landscape that goes far beyond what you’ll find in Hoi An, making it a must-visit for food lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Most travelers touch down at the bustling Da Nang International Airport, a major hub that swiftly connects you to Hoi An and links you to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other key Vietnamese destinations. If you fly in or out of Da Nang, make sure you factor a layover into your itinerary.
16. Head to the Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains sit between Hoi An and Da Nang, offering a fascinating blend of natural beauty and spiritual heritage.
This cluster of five limestone and marble hills is dotted with caves, pagodas, and winding stone steps that lead to panoramic coastal viewpoints. Among the highlights is Huyen Khong Cave, known for its ethereal light filtering through openings and its peaceful Buddhist shrines inside.
For those who prefer an easier ascent, an elevator is available partway up the main mountain, making the experience accessible to more visitors.
Exploring the Marble Mountains provides a unique opportunity to see intricate Buddhist sculptures, ancient temples, and stunning views of the surrounding coastline and countryside.
Discover the Ancient Wonders of Hoi An
Hoi An is a captivating destination that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its UNESCO World Heritage Site streets, savoring local cuisine, or venturing into the surrounding countryside and beaches, there’s something for every traveler.
Plan your visit around the full moon festival for an unforgettable experience, and don’t forget to leave time for spontaneous discoveries. After all, in Hoi An, half the fun is simply wandering and soaking it all in.
Book accommodation in advance if you are visiting during the full moon, between February and April, or on weekends. Be sure to leave space in your schedule to wander slowly. In Hoi An, the best moments often happen between plans.
