Nestled along the banks of the Thu Bon River, Hoi A stands as a living testament to Vietnam’s rich cultural mosaic. This enchanting town, with its centuries-old history and well-preserved architecture, welcomes travelers into a world where time seems to slow down. Hoi An’s ancient charm is embodied in its lantern-lit streets, where historic buildings whisper tales of trade, diverse influences, and a bygone era. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hoi An Ancient Town beckons visitors with its alluring blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural styles, creating an atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.

As dusk falls, Hoi An transforms into a mesmerizing canvas illuminated by countless colorful lanterns. These radiant symbols not only light up the night but also symbolize the town’s resilience and immortal spirit. Beyond the ancient streets, Hoi An’s vibrant markets, where the air is filled with the aroma of local delicacies, and the bustling riverbanks provide a glimpse into the daily rhythm of this coastal gem. Whether you are captivated by the ornate Japanese Covered Bridge or drawn to the intricacies of the Assembly Halls, Hoi An’s tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty is sure to leave an unforgettable mark on every traveler’s heart.

Best Time to Travel:

The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season from February to August, when the weather is warm and rainfall is minimal. Avoid the wet season from September to January, as heavy rains can disrupt outdoor activities.

10 Must-Sees in Your Itinerary:

1. Hoi An Ancient Town: step into a time capsule as you wander through the labyrinthine lanes of Hoi An Ancient Town. Adorned with vibrant silk lanterns, these narrow streets lead to hidden gems – from ancient temples exuding spiritual tranquility to traditional houses that echo stories of generations past. Each step is a revelation and the air is tinted with the echoes of Hoi An’s rich history, creating a sensory journey through time.

These are some of the places that we will recommend you to visit: Cam Pho Temple, Old House of Tan Ky, Assembly Hall of Fujian, Cantonese Assembly Hall, Teochew Assembly Hall and Chau Cau. The entrance is 150.000 Dong and will give you access to five landmarks in the area, you can buy the tickets inside the Old Town.

2. Japanese Covered Bridge (Chau Cau): marvel at the poetic fusion of cultures embodied in the Japanese Covered Bridge. This iconic landmark, gracefully spanning the Thu Bon River, is not merely a physical connection but a symbolic one, blending Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese architectural influences. The bridge’s intricate carvings and the gentle flow of the river beneath create an atmosphere of serenity, making it a must-visit testament to Hoi An’s cross-cultural heritage.

3. Assembly Halls: embark on a cultural odyssey by exploring the vibrant assembly halls, each a masterpiece showcasing meticulous craftsmanship. The Fujian and Cantonese Halls stand as living galleries, adorned with ornate sculptures, carved panels, and vibrant mosaics that narrate tales of trade and diplomacy. These halls offer a glimpse into the communal spirit that has defined Hoi A through the centuries.

4. Hoi An Night Market: as the sun dips below the horizon, immerse yourself in the Hoi An Night Market. This bustling spectacle invites you to wander through a sea of stalls, where local artisans showcase their crafts and the aroma of street food seduces your taste buds. Let the rhythmic buzz of the market be your guide as you navigate through handcrafted souvenirs, colorful lanterns and the irresistible charm of Vietnamese street cuisine.

5. An Hoi Bridge: cross this enchanting as it connects Hoi An Ancient Town to Cam Nam Island. Lit up with colorful lanterns in the evening, this bridge offers a mesmerizing view of the river and ancient town. Stroll across its wooden planks, feel the gentle breeze, and absorb the romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a slow evening walk.

6. Cham Island: for a maritime escapade, set sail on a boat trip to Cham Island, a pristine archipelago off the coast of Hoi An. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Cham Island is a haven for snorkeling enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders as colorful marine life dances beneath the waves. After your aquatic adventure, unwind on the island’s pristine beaches, where powdery sands invite relaxation. Indulge in freshly caught seafood served by locals, completing the idyllic island experience. Whether you seek tranquility on the shores or the thrill of underwater exploration, Cham Island is known as a serene sanctuary just a boat ride away from the historical charm of Hoi An. So, if you have a day to spare after seeing all the must-sees of Hoi An we will highly recommend you to visit the Cham Island, with this day trip tour, to enjoy the underwater wildlife.

7. Night Boat Ride at Thu Bon River: embark on a magical night boat ride along the Thu Bon River. As lanterns shine on the water’s surface, you will glide through the heart of Hoi An’s ancient charm. The boat gently navigates the river, passing illuminated buildings and the silhouette of the Japanese Covered Bridge. It’s a serene and romantic experience, providing a different perspective of Hoi An’s beauty under the night sky.

Disclaimer: don’t get scammed while booking a night boat ride through the river. When you are walking near the An Hoi Bridge there will be a lot of people asking if you want to do this activity, stay calm and look for little stands next to the boats that are selling the official tickets. We paid for two people 150.000 Dong.

8. Lantern Making Classes: immerse yourself in the local craft by joining lantern-making classes. Learn the delicate art of creating vibrant silk lanterns, an integral part of Hoi An’s cultural identity. Engage with skilled artisans who will guide you through the process, allowing you to craft your own piece of illuminated art. These lanterns not only serve as beautiful souvenirs but also capture the essence of Hoi An’s luminous spirit.

This was by far our favourite activity in Hoi An, we had the chance to make a Hoi An Latern from scratch and take it as a souvenir. We highly recommend “The Latern Lady” they were super caring and will take time to show you the process, you can book your spot here.

9. Basket Boat Ride: embark on a thrilling adventure with a basket boat ride. These round, woven vessels, also known as coracles, provide a unique and playful experience on the water. Navigate through narrow waterways and lush coconut groves as skilled local boatmen demonstrate the art of basket boat steering. It’s a delightful and exhilarating way to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Hoi An.

Take Notes: if you are going there without a tour we can recommend “Coconut Garden Tours”, they were amazing. If you want to go with a tour, we can recommend this one, that also comes with a Vietnamese cooking class.

10. Cycling Tour: trade the bustle of the town for the tranquility of the countryside on a cycling tour. Pedal through green rice fields, pass by water buffalo lazily eating and encounter charming villages where locals greet you with warm smiles. The slow pace of a bicycle allows you to absorb the sights, sounds and scents of rural Hoi An, creating an intimate connection with the picturesque landscapes that surround the town.

Other Activities or Places to See:

1. Marble Mountains: venture beyond Hoi An’s boundaries and embark on a captivating day trip to the Marble Mountains, a natural marvel located near Da Nang. These limestone peaks rise dramatically from the flat coastal plain, creating a surreal landscape adorned with hidden caves, ancient pagodas, and breathtaking views. Climb the stone steps that wind through the mountains, exploring the intricate network of caves housing centuries-old Buddhist sanctuaries. Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the sparkling South China Sea, making this excursion a harmonious blend of nature, spirituality and exceptional beauty.

We leave you here a day trip tour where you will explore some of the must-sees of Da Nang (Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha) and later discover the My Son Sanctuary.

2. An Bang Beach: seek tranquility on the sandy shores of An Bang Beach, where the gentle calm of the waves harmonizes with the vibrant tones of the setting sun. Relax beneath swaying palms, indulge in fresh seafood at beachfront eateries, and let the cares of the world wash away with the tide. An Bang Beach is a sanctuary of serenity, offering a coastal haven for those seeking respite from the town’s lively streets.

3. My Son Sanctuary: embark on a journey beyond Hoi An to the mystical My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, ancient Cham ruins stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. Among the lush greenery, explore sophisticated carved temples that once thrived as the spiritual heart of the Champa Kingdom. The echoes of history resonate through this archaeological wonder, transporting you to a realm where time seems to stand still. We leave you here a morning tour to beat the crowds and enjoy My Son Sanctuary, here you will learn more about the Champa culture.

4. Day trip to Ba Na Hills: embark on an exciting day trip to Ba Na Hills, just a short drive from Hoi An. Ascend via the renowned Ba Na Hills Cable Car, the world’s longest non-stop single track cable car, offering spectacular views of lush landscapes. At the summit, immerse yourself in the eccentric Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park for thrilling rides and vibrant entertainment. A journey to Ba Na Hills promises a captivating blend of adventure, amusement and spiritual discovery high above the Vietnamese countryside.

We leave you more information about Ba Na Hills here. When planning a visit this place, there is two ways of doing it: with a tour or by your own. We highly suggest you, to go by your own, you will enjoy it more and have more time up there, plus also if you are one of the first ones when they open, you will beat the crowds and have the Golden Bridge all for yourself!

You can find here the link to buy the tickets to Ba Na Hills! If you are still interested in going with a tour, don’t worry we have you covered with this link you can book your tour.

How to Move Through Hoi An:

Intricate and compact, Hoi An invites you to travel through its enchanting streets at a slow pace, making walking or cycling the preferred modes of exploration. Rent a bicycle to easily move through the narrow alleyways, uncovering hidden gems with each turn. Alternatively, embrace the simplicity of a stroll, allowing the ancient town to unfold its secrets at your own pace. Taxis and cyclos are easily available, offering convenient options for longer journeys. To experience the town from a different angle, consider hiring a boat for a serene river excursion, providing a unique perspective of Hoi An’s riverside charm.

Where to Sleep in Hoi An:

Immerse yourself in the heart of Hoi An’s history by opting for a homestay within the ancient town. Here, you will not only have the convenience of proximity to its cultural treasures but also the chance to experience daily life through the eyes of local residents.

Here we leave you some hotels:

• Luxury: enjoy Hoi An from the comfort of your hotel. Little Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa, is a refined retreat that offers a luxury blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Also, Hotel Royal Hoi An, offers a great experience with panoramic views of the Ancient Town.
• Mid-Range: Lantana Boutique Hoi An Hotel, is the perfect mid-range choice for travelers seeking comfort. Also, Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa, welcomes guests with riverside views, rejuvenating spa treatments, and warm hospitality.
• Budget: embrace affordability without compromising the comfort. La An Central Boutique Villa, offers a delightful retreat for budget-conscious travelers exploring the enchanting streets of Hoi An from a central location. Also, Hoi An Riverland Villa, is an ideal choice.

Where to Eat in Hoi An:

Embark on a culinary journey through Hoi An’s diverse flavors, starting with street stalls and markets where local delicacies excite the taste buds. Here are some culinary delights and unique experiences that make Hoi An a food lover’s paradise: Cao Lau (rice noodle with pork), Banh Bao Vac (white rose dumplings), Mi Quang (rice noodle with pork or shrimp) and Com Ga Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

Here we leave you some restaurants:

• Thanh Nam Quan: great place to try some of the typical Vietnamese dishes.
• Morning Glory Signature: we tried the “Crispy Roast Pork Banh Mi” and the the “Com Ga Hoi An”.
• Madam Khanh: we highly recommend you to come here to try their banh mi options, specially “Thap Cam”.
• Madame Hien: another great place to try some of the typical dishes.
• Ganesh Indian Restaurant: for the ones wanting to try other cuisines, this Indian place was amazing.

Our opinion of Hoi An:

We loved our time in Hoi An, is just a unique place in the world and it really felt like stepping back in time when we walked through the Ancient Town, you have so many historical places to visit and shops with amazing handcrafted souvenirs. But as you have read, Hoi An is not just the Ancient Town, so we highly recommend you to rent a bike and get lost exploring the surroundings. The cherry on top is the activities that you have there, they were great, form the basket boat ride, to a magical night boat ride at Thu Bon River and the best one for sure is the lantern-making class. Overall Hoi An is a must visit when visiting Vietnam.

Other areas of Central Vietnam to explore:

Phong Nha: venture into the mesmerizing landscapes of Phong Nha, a hidden gem in Central Vietnam renowned for its enchanting caves and untouched natural beauty. Delve into the mysteries of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colossal caves like Son Doong and Paradise Cave beckon adventurers into a subterranean world of awe-inspiring wonders. More information in our travel blog of Phong Nha here.

Hue: immerse yourself in the imperial grandeur of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the rich history and cultural legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty as you explore the majestic Imperial City, with its decorated palaces, temples, and fortified walls. From the tranquil Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue offers a journey through centuries of Vietnamese history and tradition. More information in our travel blog of Hue here.

Da Nang: a coastal city that blends modernity with cultural heritage in Central Vietnam. From the iconic Dragon Bridge to the sacred Marble Mountains, Da Nang captivates with its architectural marvels and spiritual landmarks. Explore the golden beaches, relish the vibrant street food scene, and ascend the heights of the Ba Na Hills for panoramic views. More information in our travel blog of Da Nang here.

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Tell us in the comments your opinion about Hoi An!