HOI AN
Hoi An is a charming and well-preserved historic town located on Vietnam's central coast. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's famed for its ancient architecture, atmospheric old town with lantern-lit streets, and a rich tradition of silk weaving and tailoring.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season, from February to July, with the most ideal weather usually in May and June. These months offer plenty of sunshine, less rainfall, and moderate temperatures perfect for sightseeing, beach activities, and exploration. During this period, you can also enjoy the lantern festival, which takes place every month on the full moon night, creating a magical atmosphere in the Old Town.
However, it's worth noting that Hoi An can be visited year-round, but from October to November, the city experiences its monsoon season, which can result in heavy rains and occasional flooding in the ancient town.
How to Get There
Hoi An does not have its own airport or train station, so visitors usually fly into Da Nang International Airport, which is the closest airport, about 29 kilometers (roughly 18 miles) away. Here's how you can reach Hoi An:
By Plane: Fly into Da Nang International Airport. It's well-connected with direct flights from many domestic and international destinations. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi, Grab (the Southeast Asian version of Uber), or arrange a private transfer to Hoi An. The journey usually takes about 45 minutes.
By Train: If you are coming from other parts of Vietnam like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a train to Da Nang Railway Station. From there, you can take a taxi or Grab to Hoi An, which is about a 30-minute drive.
By Bus: Buses are a budget-friendly way to reach Hoi An. There are bus services to Hoi An from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Nha Trang. The bus station in Hoi An is about 2 kilometers from the town center, so you'll need to take a taxi or motorbike taxi for the final leg of the journey.
By Car/Motorbike: If you're already in Vietnam and prefer to drive, you can rent a car or motorbike to reach Hoi An. Just make sure you're comfortable with the driving rules and conditions in Vietnam.
Top 20 Attractions in Hoi An
Hoi An Ancient Town: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and street plan reflect indigenous and foreign influences.
Japanese Covered Bridge: An iconic symbol of Hoi An, this 18th-century wooden bridge features intricate carvings and a unique roof. It originally connected the Japanese community to the Chinese quarter across the stream.
Tan Ky House: A 200-year-old ancestral house, Tan Ky House offers insight into the architectural style influenced by Vietnam's foreign trade history.
Old House of Phun Hung: One of the oldest homes in Hoi An, this house showcases the unique architectural style and rich history of the area.
Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien): Originally a gathering place for Chinese immigrants, this hall is now a temple dedicated to Thien Hau, a deity from Fujian province in China.
Hoi An Night Market: Famous for its beautiful lanterns, this bustling market is also a great place to try local street food.
An Bang Beach: Just a few kilometers from the town, An Bang Beach is a serene spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Cua Dai Beach: Another beautiful beach near Hoi An, Cua Dai offers stunning views and a variety of watersport activities.
My Son Sanctuary: A day trip from Hoi An, this UNESCO-listed site was an ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Champa civilization.
Hoi An Silk Village: Learn about silk weaving traditions and witness the process of creating silk from silkworm to fabric.
Thu Bon River: Enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, especially during the evening when the town is lit up by hundreds of lanterns.
Tra Que Vegetable Village: A small farming community where you can learn about organic farming techniques and even participate in farming activities.
Cam Kim Island: Accessible via a short boat ride, this island offers a quiet escape from the town and insight into traditional crafts like woodworking and mat weaving.
Cham Island: Located off the coast of Hoi An, Cham Island is a beautiful marine area recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. It's great for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying pristine beaches.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village: This village is renowned for its carpentry and traditional woodworking crafts. You can see skilled artisans at work and purchase beautiful wooden items.
Quan Cong Temple: This colorful and ornate temple is one of the most important religious sites in Hoi An. It's dedicated to Quan Cong, a Chinese general, and is a symbol of loyalty and justice.
Cam Thanh Coconut Village: Known for its unique coconut ecosystem, you can take a basket boat tour through the waterways for a fun and educational experience.
Lantern Market: in Hoi An is a captivating spectacle, with numerous stalls displaying vibrant, handcrafted lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere in the evenings along the bustling riverside of the ancient town.
Marble Mountain: located just outside of Da Nang, is a cluster of five majestic limestone and marble hills that offer breathtaking views, intricate caves, and stunning pagodas, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
Hoi An Museum of History and Culture: Housed in a beautifully restored French colonial building, the museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations that provide a comprehensive understanding of Hoi An's rich history, cultural heritage, and maritime trade.
Top 12 Activities
Hoi An offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. Here are some top activities to consider when visiting Hoi An:
Bicycle Tour: Explore the charming streets and countryside of Hoi An on a bicycle. Cycle through rice paddies, visit local villages, and experience the peaceful rural life.
Lantern-Making Workshop: Participate in a lantern-making workshop to learn the traditional art of lantern crafting. Create your own lantern masterpiece to take home as a unique souvenir.
Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River: Take a leisurely boat ride along the Thu Bon River to enjoy the serene beauty of Hoi An from a different perspective. You can also release floating lanterns into the river for good luck.
Cooking Class: Enroll in a cooking class and learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes. Visit local markets to select fresh ingredients and then master the art of Vietnamese cuisine under the guidance of experienced chefs.
Tailor-Made Clothing: Hoi An is renowned for its skilled tailors. Take advantage of the opportunity to get custom-made clothing created to your specifications. Choose your fabric, design, and measurements for a unique, tailored garment.
Beach Day: Spend a relaxing day at one of Hoi An's beautiful nearby beaches, such as An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach. Enjoy the sun, swim in the clear waters, and indulge in beachside refreshments.
My Son Sanctuary Tour: Take a day trip to the nearby My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient ruins of Hindu temples and learn about the Champa civilization that once thrived in the region.
Hoi An Central Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hoi An Central Market. Explore the bustling stalls selling fresh produce, local specialties, clothing, and handicrafts. Try bargaining for a unique shopping experience.
Traditional Music and Dance Shows: Attend a traditional music or dance performance to experience the cultural heritage of Hoi An. The shows often feature captivating performances of traditional instruments, costumes, and dance routines.
Relax with a Spa Treatment: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment or massage. Hoi An is home to numerous spas where you can indulge in relaxing therapies inspired by traditional Vietnamese techniques.
Snorkel in Cham Island: Located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) off the coast of Hoi An, Cham Island is a popular destination for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. Join a boat tour to explore the pristine beaches, swim in clear waters, and discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Scuba Dive at Cu Lao Cham Marine Park: This protected marine park encompasses a group of islands, including Cham Island. It offers opportunities for snorkeling and diving to explore the underwater world of colorful corals, tropical fish, and other marine species.
Best Shopping
Hoi An is renowned for its shopping scene, offering a diverse range of goods from traditional handicrafts to tailor-made clothing. Here are some of the best shopping experiences in Hoi An:
Hoi An Ancient Town: The Ancient Town is a shopper's paradise, with numerous streets lined with shops and boutiques. Wander along Tran Phu Street, Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, and the surrounding lanes to explore a wide range of shops offering textiles, clothing, accessories, art, souvenirs, and more.
Hoi An Central Market: Located near the Thu Bon River, Hoi An Central Market is a bustling and vibrant place to shop. Here, you'll find an array of stalls selling fresh produce, spices, local snacks, clothing, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It's a great spot to immerse yourself in the local market atmosphere.
Tran Phu Street: Tran Phu Street, also known as "Silk Street," is a must-visit for silk enthusiasts. This street is lined with shops and tailor establishments offering a wide selection of silk products, from fabrics and scarves to clothing and accessories.
Nguyen Thai Hoc Street: Nguyen Thai Hoc Street is a popular shopping area that features a mix of shops, boutiques, and tailor shops. Here, you'll find an assortment of clothing, shoes, leather goods, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Hoi An Cloth Market: Located near the Japanese Covered Bridge, this market is known for its wide range of textiles and fabrics. It's a great place to browse and purchase materials to create your own clothing or home decor items.
Hoi An Handicraft Workshop: Situated in a restored Chinese trading house, this workshop showcases traditional crafts made by local artisans. Here, you can find unique handicrafts, including pottery, wood carvings, lanterns, and more.
Lantern Shops: Throughout Hoi An, you'll find lantern shops offering a stunning array of colorful lanterns. These beautifully crafted lanterns make for fantastic souvenirs or home decorations. Explore the lanes of the Ancient Town to find the perfect lantern to take home.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Hoi An offers a more laid-back and intimate nightlife compared to larger cities in Vietnam, but it still has its own unique charm. Here's an overview of the nightlife scene in Hoi An:
Lantern-Lit Streets: As the sun sets, the lanterns that adorn the streets of Hoi An's Ancient Town illuminate, creating a magical ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverside and enjoy the romantic atmosphere.
Rooftop Bars and Cafés: Hoi An has a few rooftop bars and cafés where you can enjoy a drink while taking in panoramic views of the city. These spots offer a relaxed and cozy environment to unwind and socialize.
Bars and Pubs: Hoi An has a variety of bars and pubs scattered throughout the city. You can find places that cater to different tastes, ranging from lively sports bars to cozy pubs serving craft beers and cocktails. Many bars feature live music performances, providing entertainment for the evening.
Night Markets: Hoi An's night markets are popular evening spots where you can indulge in street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The lantern-lit streets of the market create a lively setting for a night out.
Traditional Music and Dance Shows: Some venues in Hoi An offer traditional music and dance performances, providing an opportunity to experience the cultural heritage of the region. These shows often feature beautiful costumes, traditional instruments, and captivating performances.
River Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing river cruise along the Thu Bon River in the evening. These cruises offer a tranquil and scenic experience, allowing you to admire the city's illuminated beauty from a different perspective.
Full Moon Lantern Festival: If you're lucky to be in Hoi An during a full moon, you can witness the enchanting Full Moon Lantern Festival. The town turns off its electric lights, and colorful lanterns illuminate the streets. Locals and visitors alike release lanterns into the river, creating a mesmerizing sight.
While the nightlife in Hoi An may not be as bustling as in larger cities, it offers a pleasant and charming ambiance that perfectly complements the town's relaxed atmosphere.
Local Cuisine
Hoi An is renowned for its delectable local cuisine, which combines the influences of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese culinary traditions. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine in Hoi An:
Cao Lau: This signature dish of Hoi An is a hearty noodle dish made with thick, chewy noodles, slices of succulent pork, fresh greens, and crispy rice crackers. It's traditionally cooked with water from a specific well in Hoi An, giving it a unique flavor.
Banh Mi: Hoi An is famous for its version of the iconic Vietnamese sandwich, Banh Mi. It features a crispy baguette filled with a combination of various ingredients, including pork, pate, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy sauce.
White Rose Dumplings (Banh Bao Vac): These delicate steamed dumplings are made from translucent rice paper filled with minced shrimp or pork. They are shaped to resemble delicate white roses and are typically served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce.
Mi Quang: This flavorful noodle dish is a specialty of the Quang Nam Province, which includes Hoi An. It features thick rice noodles topped with tender slices of meat, shrimp, herbs, peanuts, and a rich, savory broth.
Com Ga (Chicken Rice): A simple yet satisfying dish, Com Ga features tender poached chicken served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth. It is typically garnished with fresh herbs, cucumber slices, and served with a side of dipping sauce.
Hoanh Thanh (Fried Wontons): These crispy fried wontons are filled with a mixture of ground pork and shrimp. They are often served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, making them a popular snack or appetizer.
Banh Dap: A unique Hoi An specialty, Banh Dap consists of a crispy rice cracker that is served with a thick sesame rice pancake. The contrast in textures and flavors makes it an interesting and delicious dish.
Hoi An-Style Seafood: Being a coastal town, Hoi An is known for its fresh seafood. You can find a variety of dishes featuring grilled fish, prawns, squid, and other delicacies. Enjoy seafood prepared in traditional Vietnamese cooking styles or try local specialties like Cua Dai Crab.
Accommodations
Hoi An Ancient Town: Staying in the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town allows you to immerse yourself in the charm and ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll have easy access to the town's historic sites, markets, restaurants, and shops. However, it's worth noting that accommodation within the Ancient Town itself is limited and often more expensive.
Cua Dai Beach: If you're looking for a beach retreat, staying near Cua Dai Beach is a great choice. This area offers beautiful stretches of sandy beaches, beachfront resorts, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's located a short distance from the Ancient Town, and many hotels provide shuttle services for easy access to both the beach and town.
An Bang Beach: Another popular beach area near Hoi An is An Bang Beach. It's known for its tranquil and laid-back vibe. There are several boutique hotels, homestays, and beachfront resorts where you can enjoy a relaxing stay. An Bang Beach is a bit farther from the Ancient Town compared to Cua Dai Beach but still within a convenient distance.
Cam Thanh Village: For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider staying in Cam Thanh Village. This rural area provides a glimpse into local life and offers homestay options where you can experience authentic Vietnamese hospitality. It's a great choice for those seeking a quiet and immersive stay away from the hustle and bustle.
Regardless of the area you choose, Hoi An is relatively compact, and transportation options like bicycles and taxis are readily available, making it easy to explore the town and its surroundings.
Itinerary
Enchanting Hoi An: A Three-Day Exploration
Day 1: Discover the Ancient Town
Morning: Start your day by exploring the Ancient Town of Hoi An. Wander through its narrow streets, lined with historic buildings and colorful lanterns. Visit attractions like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Halls, and historic houses such as Tan Ky House.
Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant in the Ancient Town, where you can savor traditional Hoi An specialties like Cao Lau or White Rose dumplings.
Afternoon: Take a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River, admiring the charming waterfront views and observing local life. Visit craft workshops to learn about traditional handicrafts like lantern-making, pottery, or silk weaving.
Evening: As dusk sets in, experience the magical ambiance of the Ancient Town illuminated by lanterns. Take a stroll along the riverside, explore the Night Market, and savor the delicious street food offerings. Cap off the evening with a traditional music performance or attend a lantern-making class.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Coastal Delights
Morning: Start your day with a bicycle ride to Tra Que Vegetable Village, located just outside Hoi An. Experience the rural countryside and learn about organic farming techniques. Participate in hands-on activities like planting or harvesting vegetables.
Lunch: Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring fresh ingredients from Tra Que Village, prepared in traditional local dishes.
Afternoon: Head to An Bang Beach, one of Hoi An's beautiful coastal gems. Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the azure waters, or simply soak up the sun. You can also explore the nearby fishing village and interact with the local fishermen.
Evening: Return to Hoi An and treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa session or traditional Vietnamese massage. Afterward, indulge in a seafood feast at a local restaurant near the riverside, enjoying the scenic views and cool breeze.
Day 3: Exploring Beyond Hoi An
Morning: Embark on a day trip to the enchanting My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient Hindu temple ruins and learn about the Champa civilization that thrived in the region.
Lunch: Enjoy a picnic-style lunch amidst the serene surroundings of My Son Sanctuary or choose a local restaurant nearby to taste regional specialties.
Afternoon: Visit a nearby village known for its lantern-making traditions, such as Kim Bong Carpentry Village or Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Observe skilled craftsmen at work and even try your hand at creating your own lantern or pottery.
Evening: Return to Hoi An and spend your final evening exploring the charming streets of the Ancient Town once again. Shop for souvenirs, sample more local delicacies, and admire the beauty of the lantern-lit streets.
