Hoi An is a historic trading town in central Vietnam, known for its preserved streets, old merchant houses and lanterns along the Thu Bon River. You come for architecture, local food, tailoring and a slower pace than Vietnam's larger cities. Beaches and countryside are also within easy reach.
The old town is compact and atmospheric, especially in the early morning and evening. It can also become crowded, so the best visits leave room to wander away from the busiest streets. Stay overnight rather than treating Hoi An only as a quick stop from Da Nang.
How many days: 3
Spend your first day exploring the old town, visiting historic buildings and walking beside the river. Return after dark to see the lanterns, but also enjoy the quieter streets away from the busiest waterfront. Use your second day for a cooking experience, a countryside cycle or a visit to nearby villages.
Keep the third day for An Bang Beach and a relaxed afternoon, or make an excursion to My Son Sanctuary. If you want clothes tailored, start the process early in your stay so there is time for fittings and alterations. A fourth day is worthwhile if you prefer a slower holiday.
What to do in Hoi An
- Wander through the Ancient Town
- Explore narrow streets lined with traditional houses, assembly halls and former trading premises. Some heritage buildings require admission, so check the official visitor arrangements locally.
- See the Japanese Covered Bridge
- Visit one of Hoi An's best-known historic landmarks, reflecting the town's trading connections. Take time to explore the surrounding lanes rather than stopping only for a photograph.
- Explore historic merchant houses
- Step inside preserved homes to see wooden interiors, courtyards and architectural influences from different trading communities. These buildings explain much of Hoi An's character.
- Watch the lanterns by the river
- Walk along the Thu Bon River after dark as lanterns illuminate the streets and boats. Enjoy the atmosphere without feeling obliged to join every tourist activity.
- Cycle through the rice fields
- Head towards Cam Thanh or nearby rural lanes for fields, waterways and small settlements. Choose quieter routes and take care where local roads carry motorbike traffic.
- Spend time at An Bang Beach
- Relax on the sand north-east of the old town and swim when sea conditions permit. It offers a welcome change from sightseeing, especially during warmer weather.
- Join a Vietnamese cooking class
- Learn how to prepare local dishes using herbs, rice noodles and fresh ingredients. Experiences that include a market visit can help you understand the ingredients before cooking.
- Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
- Explore a farming area known for herbs and vegetables used in local cooking. It is a gentle countryside outing that pairs naturally with cycling or a food experience.
- Explore My Son Sanctuary
- Travel inland to see historic Cham temple ruins surrounded by wooded hills. The site adds a different layer of regional history to Hoi An's trading-town heritage.
- Have clothes tailored
- Visit a tailor to discuss fabrics, measurements and a design that suits you. Allow time for fittings, check workmanship carefully and avoid rushing a complicated garment.
What to eat and drink
- Try cao lau
- Order Hoi An's distinctive noodle dish with pork, herbs, greens and crisp toppings. Its thick noodles and relatively small amount of sauce make it different from a typical noodle soup.
- Eat white rose dumplings
- Try delicate steamed rice-flour dumplings, often filled with prawns or pork and topped with crisp shallots. They are a local speciality worth seeking out.
- Have com ga
- Enjoy Hoi An-style chicken rice with shredded chicken, herbs and fragrant rice. The accompanying broth and condiments help bring the dish together.
- Sample banh mi
- Choose a freshly filled baguette with savoury ingredients, herbs and vegetables. It works particularly well as a quick lunch while exploring.
- Try banh bao banh vac
- Look for traditional steamed dumplings with thin wrappers and savoury fillings. Ask about the ingredients if you have a shellfish allergy.
- Enjoy Vietnamese coffee and sweets
- Stop for iced coffee, fresh fruit drinks or traditional sweet desserts. A quiet café away from the busiest streets is a good place to escape the afternoon heat.
Getting around
Hoi An's Ancient Town is best explored on foot. Some central streets restrict motor vehicles at certain times, making walking especially pleasant. Bicycles are useful for reaching nearby countryside, although you should remain alert at junctions and on busier roads.
For An Bang Beach, outlying accommodation and longer journeys, use a taxi or app-based car where available. Confirm the fare before setting off if a meter or app is not being used. Da Nang is the main nearby airport gateway, and a car transfer is generally the simplest way to reach Hoi An with luggage.
Good to know
- The Ancient Town can become very busy during the evening. Explore early in the morning for a quieter experience.
- Heavy rain and flooding can affect low-lying streets, especially during the wetter part of the year. Check local conditions before travelling.
- Heritage admission arrangements can change. Use official information rather than assuming every historic building is freely accessible.
- Tailoring needs sufficient time for fittings and corrections. Inspect fabric and stitching before accepting the finished garment.
- The midday heat can be intense. Plan outdoor cycling and longer walks for cooler parts of the day.
- Tipping is not generally compulsory. Small tips for particularly helpful service are appreciated.