Known as the “City of Lanterns”, “Vietnam’s UNESCO Heritage Site”, “Yellow City”, and “Central Vietnam’s Food Hub”, Hoi An is a captivating gem on Vietnam’s central coast, where every corner whispers stories of old-world charm and vibrant culture. Entitled the Best City in the World in 2019, this small town has had thousands of travelers from all over the world fall for its charms.
From exploring the bustling markets and tranquil riverside to getting lost in the mesmerizing glow of its lantern-lit streets, this guide highlights the top things to do in Hoi An to truly embrace its magic and allure.
Top Things To Do In Hoi An That You Must Explore
Discover the Old Town
This area is known for its traditional yellow-mustard houses that line the Thu Bon River
When visiting Hoi An, the first thing you should do is explore its Old Town. While Hoi An is a popular tourist destination, the Old Town is well-preserved and not overwhelming. The historic sites are all within walking distance of each other, and the enchanting atmosphere has remained unchanged despite the influx of visitors from around the globe.
Hoi An was a bustling trading port from the 15th to the 19th century. Today, you can marvel at the distinct architectural styles of Japanese merchant houses, Chinese temples, and ancient tea warehouses. Some of the must-see landmarks include the Japanese Bridge, Tan Ky House, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, the Museum of Hoi An, and the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture.
>> Read More: Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? Why It Deserves A Spot On Your Vietnam Itinerary
Take a Basket Boat Ride in Coconut Forest
A basket boat ride in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest might offer you a unique glimpse into Hoi An’s fishing communities
- Time: Daily, 8:00 to 17:00; rides last 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Place: Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Cam Thanh Village, about 5 km from Hoi An Ancient Town.
- Price: 6.10 to 12.21 USD per person.
Located just outside the town, this lush mangrove forest is crisscrossed with calm waterways, perfect for a peaceful ride in the iconic round bamboo boats known as “thung chai.” As you drift through the forest, local guides not only expertly steer you through the narrow canals but also entertain you with demonstrations of fishing techniques, boat spinning tricks, and stories of the area’s history.
This adventure is perfect for those looking to explore Hoi An’s natural beauty from a different perspective while connecting with its cultural roots. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity that’s both relaxing and exciting, offering picturesque views and unforgettable memories.
Back In Time with the Hoi An Memories Show
The show presents the transformation of Hoi An from a humble rural village to a major trading port in Southeast Asia
- Time: 19:30, ~1 hour.
- Place: Hoi An Impression Theme Park, Hen Islet.
- Price: 24.40 to 48.81 USD (depending on seating categories)
The Hoi An Memories Show is a grand outdoor performance featuring over 500 actors and dancers, portraying 400 years of Hoi An’s history on a 25,000-square-meter stage.
The show highlights key historical events, including the arrival of foreign merchants and the rise of lantern-lit streets. However, its true beauty lies in the portrayal of ordinary daily life, with no dialogues or scripts—just the passage of time narrated through the evolving city itself. The immersive lighting and atmosphere remind viewers that their presence is deeply connected to the city’s rich past.
Relax at An Bang Beach
An Bang Beach is a tranquil haven for beach lovers
Just 7 km from the Old Town is An Bang Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the central region. Unspoiled by development, this spot has become popular for travelers wanting to soak up the sun and enjoy an array of beach activities – swimming, paddle-boarding, and surfing.
For lunch or dinner, of course, there’s no better option than fresh seafood, but you can opt for Western cuisine as well, so choose what suits your appetite from the many restaurants along the beach.
>> Read more: Top 8 Vietnam Beaches That Definitely Should Be On Your List
Cruise the Thu Bon River
Cruising the Thu Bon River offers a serene and picturesque escape from Hoi An’s bustling streets
- Time: Available all day; sunset cruises around 16:30 to 18:00 are popular.
- Place: Departs from riverside spots in Hoi An Ancient Town.
- Price: 4.07 to 12.21 USD per person, depending on boat type and duration.
Hop aboard a traditional wooden boat to glide along the tranquil waters, where visitors enjoy stunning views of the riverbanks and local life. While cruising, you will encounter enchanting views of traditional fishing methods, verdant landscapes, and bustling riverside villages.
For the best experience, consider taking a sunset cruise, which bathes the river in golden light and offers a magical view of the surrounding scenery. It’s a perfect way to relax, soak in the beauty of Hoi An, and capture unforgettable photos.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Covered Bridge is a must-see historic landmark in Hoi An
- Time: Open daily from 7:00 to 18:00.
- Place: Located in Hoi An Ancient Town, near the junction of Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Tran Phu Streets.
- Price: 3.25 USD per person.
Built in the 18th century, this iconic structure features a unique blend of architectural styles and cultural influences. Visitors can walk across the bridge, which is adorned with intricate wood carvings and vibrant, traditional designs. Inside, there is a small temple dedicated to the deity who protects seafarers.
To fully appreciate its beauty, explore the bridge at various times of the day, as the changing light highlights its details differently. Early morning offers a serene atmosphere with fewer crowds, while evening visits reveal the bridge illuminated by the warm glow of surrounding lanterns. The Japanese Covered Bridge is not just a historical site but a vivid snapshot of Hoi An’s rich cultural tapestry.
Treat Your Taste Buds with Hoi An Cuisine
Never miss a food tour in Hoi An
It’s a fact we all know that Vietnamese food is one of the tastiest in the world, and many have come to love dishes with fresh ingredients and that are cooked by skilled hands. For gourmets, the good news is each region in Vietnam has very distinctive dishes, and Hoi An is the food hub of central Vietnam.
Banh mi Phuong (Vietnamese sandwich), com ga (chicken rice), and Cao Lau (Hoi An’s specialty) are just some of the dishes you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Vietnamese cuisine, including Hoi An’s food, features a wide range of fresh ingredients supplied by the neighboring villages, which emphasize the perfect balance and delicacy of flavors.
Drink “Mot Hoi An” (Herbal Tea)
This aromatic herbal drink is often called lemongrass and ginger drink or “elegant drink”
- Time: 8:00 to 22:00
- Place: 150 Tran Phu, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam
- Price: 0.49 USD per cup
Made from lemons, ginger, lemongrass, chrysanthemum, lotus leaves, green tea, and honey, this traditional beverage not only detoxifies and cools the body but also boasts a unique flavor from a recipe over 100 years old.
Each cup is elegantly presented with lotus leaves and stems, reflecting the artistic touch of the bartender. The drink’s name, “Mot,” comes from Nguyen Huu Xuan, who first introduced it to visitors and named his establishment for easy recognition. Despite its strong-smelling ingredients, the drink offers a subtle and captivating taste, making it a favorite among tourists.
>> Read More: Discover Original Flavors With Hoi An Street Food Tours
Take A Cooking Class
Try to make a Vietnamese dish on your own
After enjoying delectable food in Hoi An, you may want to bring it home so that your friends and family can try it too. Join a cooking class in Hoi An, where you can improve your kitchen skills by making the delicacies of this place.
Learning to make local dishes from scratch, shopping for ingredients at the local market, and practicing local techniques will be an authentic experience. Along the way, you will understand more about not only the dishes you are making but also about a part of the Hoi An and Vietnamese culture because, in this country, its cuisine reflects a great part of its thousand-year history.
Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
This charming village is known for its lush green fields and sustainable farming
- Time: 7:00 to 17:00 daily
- Place: About 3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, Cam Ha Commune.
- Price: Free entry; the tour might cost from 6.10 to 20.34 USD.
Nestled just outside Hoi An, Tra Que Vegetable Village offers a refreshing escape into Vietnam’s agricultural heartland. Here, you can roll up your sleeves and join the farmers in cultivating fresh vegetables, discover the secrets of traditional Vietnamese cooking with ingredients straight from the garden, or simply savor the charm of a tranquil countryside.
Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or just seeking a serene retreat, Tra Que promises an enriching and immersive experience.
Explore Cham Island (Cu Lao Cham)
On Cham Island, visitors can dive into an array of activities that showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Time: Best visited between March and September for ideal weather. Day tours typically start at 8:00 and return by 16:00.
- Place: Cham Island is located about 15 km off the coast of Hoi An, accessible by speedboat or ferry from Cua Dai Port.
- Price: Tours cost between 24.41 to 48.81 USD per person
Snorkeling and diving are top highlights, with the island’s clear waters revealing colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. For relaxation, pristine beaches like Bai Chong and Bai Xep offer serene spots to unwind. Trolling the island’s fishing villages, such as Bai Lang, gives a glimpse into traditional island life, while historical sites like Hai Tang Pagoda and the Cham Island Museum provide a deeper understanding of the local culture.
>> Read More: Top Remote Beaches In Southeast Asia That You Simply Cannot Miss
Explore My Son Sanctuary
The peaceful, scenic surroundings make for a serene and immersive cultural experience
- Time: Open daily from 6:00 to 17:00
- Place: Located 40 km southwest of Hoi An in Duy Phu Village, Quang Nam Province.
- Price: The entrance fee is 6.10 USD per person.
Visitors can explore a complex of ancient Hindu temples that once served as the religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom at My Son Sanctuary.
As you wander through the site, you’ll admire the unique Cham architecture, characterized by intricately carved red brick towers surrounded by lush jungle. History enthusiasts can delve into the cultural significance of the site, learning about its role in the Champa civilization through informative plaques or by joining a guided tour. In addition to the temples, visitors can enjoy traditional Cham dance performances that bring the site’s rich history to life.
Cycle Through Rice Paddies
Grab your hat and hop on a bike for a tour of the countryside of Hoi An
Every traveler will be welcomed with the lush scenery of rice fields and lovely local villages. It is also possible to get to the beaches by bike, and it doesn’t take long either.
The best time to do this is at sunrise to avoid the heat. Feel the breeze of the wind on your skin and the fresh earthy scent in the air as you bike past the rice paddies. Some locals working in the fields will wave at you with bright smiles on their faces, ride leisurely to admire the natural scenery, and wave back at the friendly locals!
>> Read More: Vietnam Cycling Holidays: Unveil Hidden Gems On Two Wheels
Enjoy Hoi An’s Nightlife
In the evening, you can relax by the riverside with a beer and enjoy street performances
“City of Lanterns” – the name itself is a big suggestion for what we are going to talk about. While during the day, Hoi An is attractive for its distinctive buildings, the nightlife is even more eye-catching, with the riverside lit up by hundreds of lanterns. It’s a sight that you will never get tired of looking at. Every big and small alley becomes dazzling under the lantern light, take a stroll around the town after dark to enjoy another beautiful face of Hoi An.
The evening is also a great time to chill out, sit down, and grab a beer by the riverside, there are a ton of restaurants, coffee shops, and pubs for your interest. You will likely come across some street performances in the evening too.
Get a Custom Outfit Tailored
Tailored clothing in Hoi An is worth to try
Known as the tailoring capital of Vietnam, the town is home to hundreds of tailor shops, particularly around Le Loi, Tran Phu, and Nguyen Thai Hoc streets. Skilled artisans can create made-to-measure clothing in as little as 24 hours, with prices ranging from 20.32 to 121.90 USD, depending on the fabric and complexity of the design.
Whether you’re looking for a chic suit, a stylish dress, or a traditional Ao Dai, Hoi An’s tailors offer personalized service to ensure every detail fits your taste and body perfectly. With endless fabric choices and designs, it’s a must-try for fashion lovers wanting a unique, custom-made wardrobe.
Let Asia Pioneer Travel Plan Your Upcoming Vietnam Trip
As a leading expert in Southeast Asian tailor-made journeys, Asia Pioneer Travel provides a selection of custom private tours designed to help you experience the best of Hoi An without the stress of planning. You won’t have to worry about the best times to visit, transportation options, or customizing the experiences to match your unique interests and preferences. Our travel experts will navigate you through the town’s charming streets, uncovering hidden treasures and offering in-depth knowledge of the local culture and history.
Begin planning your journey to the captivating town of Hoi An and let the specialists at Asia Pioneer Travel lead you on an extraordinary exploration of this Vietnamese treasure.
