In Hoi An, you can explore the historic Hoi An Ancient Town and its UNESCO-listed sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, visit the lively Hoi An Night Market for shopping and street food, and relax at An Bang Beach. Other popular activities include taking a cooking class, visiting Tra Que Vegetable Village, or taking a boat ride on the Hoai River.
This guide lists over 30 of the best things to do in Hoi An. It covers a wide range of experiences to help you build your perfect itinerary. You will find ideas for exploring the Ancient Town, enjoying local food, and venturing into the surrounding countryside.
Hoi An offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler. Here is a list of over 30+ best things to do to help you build your perfect itinerary.
The well-preserved architecture is a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and French styles, telling the story of its history as a trading port in the 15th century. Visitors can admire charming timber-frame houses, yellow painted buildings, and colorful hanging lanterns everywhere you look.
To visit the main heritage sites inside the town, you will need to buy a ticket for 120,000 VND (about $5). This ticket grants you admission to five sightseeing places, including sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge or one of the old merchant houses.
A useful tip is to explore early in the morning. At this time, the streets are quiet, the light is soft, and you can experience the town's peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
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Wandering around Hoi An Ancient Town in the morning |
Exploring Hoi An after dark is a must, the town transforms as thousands of colorful silk lanterns light up along the streets. A popular activity is to buy a small paper lantern from a vendor, make a wish, and release it into the river. These lanterns are inexpensive, usually around 10,000 VND (≈ $0.40).
For an even better experience, you can hop on a short boat ride to release your lantern from the water. A 20-minute boat ride for a small group typically costs around 200,000 VND (≈$7.5).
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Hoi An Lantern Festival after dark |
The Japanese Covered Bridge is a well-known symbol of Hoi An, built in the 18th century by the Japanese community to connect with the Chinese quarter. The bridge has beautiful carvings and a small temple inside.
A common point of confusion for visitors is the entrance fee. It is free to cross the bridge to get to the other side of the Old Town. However, you will need to show your Ancient Town ticket if you want to enter the small temple located inside the bridge.
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Japanese Covered Bridge at night |
The Fujian Chinese Assembly Hall, or Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, is one of the most famous landmarks in Hoi An. It was built in the late 1600s by Chinese traders from Fujian province. The site honors Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea, who protects sailors and merchants.
There is a grand gate leading to a courtyard filled with dragon statues, incense, and red lanterns. Inside, the halls display detailed carvings and bright colors that reflect Chinese influence in central Vietnam.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Respect the temple dress code by covering your shoulders and knees. Bring a camera, as the colors and sculptures stand out beautifully in natural light.
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Fujian Chinese Assembly with its unique architecture |
Ba Mu Temple, also known as the Temple of the Three Mothers, is a recently restored historical site in Hoi An. While the main temple is gone, its ornate entrance gate has been beautifully preserved.
With its traditional circular doorway and intricate details, the gate has become one of Hoi An’s most photographed spots. It is located near the main area of the Ancient Town and is free to visit. A perfect quick photo stop during your walk.
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Ba Mu Temple with a unique traditional circular doorway (Source: Collected) |
These houses are worth a quick stop while you’re exploring the Ancient Town, these are the well-preserved homes, and showcase a beautiful mix of Chinese, Japanese and also Vietnamese architectural styles.
Popular examples you can stop by to visit are Tan Ky Old House, Phung Hung or Duc An Old House. Your Ancient Town ticket already includes admission to these sites.
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The famous Tan Ky old house |
Your Ancient Town ticket also grants you access to several small temples and museums scattered throughout the area. These sites offer a deeper look into Hoi An's rich history and diverse cultural influences.
One of the most famous temples is the Quan Cong Temple, built in the 17th century to honor a respected Chinese general. Inside, you can see impressive statues and intricate red and gold decorations.
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Statues and intricate red and gold decorations inside Quan Cong temple |
You can’t talk about food in Hoi An without mentioning its famous banh mi. While you can find “sandwich” all over Vietnam, many argue that Hoi An does it best.
The big debate among travelers is always between two legendary spots. First there is Banh Mi Phuong, made famous by the late chef Anthony Bourdain. It is very popular so you should expect a long line, but the combination of a crispy baguette, rich pate with fresh herbs is worth the wait for many
Then there is Madam Khanh, or also called The Banh Mi Queen. Another great alternative to Banh Mi Phuong, Madam Khanh is a local favorite and a must-try.
Addresses:
If local food is a big part of your trip, you can also explore our food and culinary tours in Vietnam for more regional dishes and hands-on experiences.
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A long line in front of the world-famous Banh Mi Phuong |
Mót is a famous herbal tea in Hoi An, known for being very refreshing on a hot day. The small shop where it is sold is beautifully decorated with flowers and lanterns, making it one of the most Instagrammable spots in town.
Each glass is garnished with a lotus petal and a leaf, adding to its visual charm. The drink itself is delicious and very affordable, costing only around VND 15,000-20,000.
Address:
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A cup of Mót lotus herbal tea |
The Hoi An Night Market is a must-do for any food lover. It is a great place to look for a wide variety of street food snacks after dark
You will find many vendors selling popular items like grilled meat skewers and sweet banana pancakes. You can also try more unique snacks like Hoi An ice cream rolls or Vietnamese pizza (Banh Trang Nuong). It is a perfect spot for a light snack or dessert after dinner.
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The variety of food on Hoi An Night Market |
One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the Ancient Town is from above. Finding a rooftop café allows you to escape the crowds on the streets and see the iconic terracotta rooftops from a different perspective. It is a great way to relax and watch the world go by below.
Here are some more popular rooftop cafes to check out:
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Relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the beautiful rooftop view |
Beyond the traditional cafes, Hoi An also has a growing scene of modern craft beer breweries and hidden speakeasies, these are some of the spots we recommend
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A famous craft beer spots in Hoi An |
As the afternoon turns to evening, finding a spot at a bar along the riverfront is a classic Hoi An experience. Many of these bars are located on Bach Dang Street, which runs along the Thu Bon River in the Ancient Town.
Popular choices include places like Mango Rooms and Hoi An Roastery, which have great locations for watching the world go by. It is a perfect time to relax and watch the traditional boats drift on the water as the first lanterns begin to glow.
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Beautiful sunset at Ancient Town riverfront |
If you are looking for a cheap drink and a chilled, backpacker-friendly vibe, check out Mr Bean Bar & Restaurant. It is located right opposite the night market.
This spot is well-known for serving very cheap "Bia Hoi" (fresh beer). It is a lively hangout for backpackers and travelers, have an inexpensive drink, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market area.
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A famous bar for tourist near the Ancient Town |
Since Hoi An is famous as the "city of lanterns," one of the most popular activities is to join a workshop and make your own. It's a super fun and surprisingly therapeutic experience that is great for all ages.
These classes usually take about one to two hours. You will be guided through the process, from helping to build the bamboo frame to choosing your favorite color and type of silk for the covering. At the end, you get to take home a beautiful and meaningful souvenir that you made yourself.
If you want to combine lantern making with local food and village activities, a Hoi An day tour with cooking and craft experiences can be a convenient option.
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A professional lantern-maker |
Just a short 3km bike ride west of Hoi An, you will find the Thanh Ha Pottery Village. This traditional craft village is like a living museum, where you can watch skilled artisans at work using age-old techniques. The main highlight is trying it for yourself. You can get your hands dirty and try your hand at the potter's wheel, with friendly locals guiding you.
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Pottery village - A famous destination for travelers |
A basket boat ride through the Cam Thanh Coconut Village is a fun and popular tourist activity in Hoi An. The village, also known as the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, is located about 5 kilometers from the Ancient Town.
Here, you will glide through the peaceful water coconut palm forests in a traditional round basket boat called a "thung chai". The trip often includes watching locals perform the "basket boat dance," where they spin the boats at high speed, and trying your hand at catching small crabs. A typical 45-minute ride for two people costs around 150,000 to 200,000 VND ($6).
Many travelers choose to visit this area as part of a broader Hoi An countryside tour that also includes farming and village activities.
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Ride through the forest in a basket boat |
A short and pleasant bike ride about 3 kilometers from Hoi An's Old Town will take you to Tra Que Vegetable Village. This charming farming village is famous for its fresh, organic herbs and vegetables.
Here you can participate in activities like:
For a more complete experience, joining a Hoi An cooking class and Tra Que organic village tour is one of the easiest ways to combine farming, local ingredients, and hands-on cooking in one trip.
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Farmers working at Tra Que vegetable village |
Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors, and getting custom-made clothing is a must-do experience for many visitors. You can have almost anything made, from suits and dresses to casual shirts and jumpsuits.
The process is simple. You choose a design (you can bring a photo for inspiration), select your fabric, get your measurements taken, and then return for one or two fittings. The turnaround time is impressively fast, with many shops able to complete your order within 24 hours.
While there are countless tailors in town, some of the most well-known and reputable names include:
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Hoi An in Vietnam is known to be the capital city of making suits |
Along with tailor-made clothes, Hoi An is also a popular place to get prescription glasses or sunglasses made. The prices are much lower than in most Western countries, and the service is very fast.
You can get an eye test and have a new pair of glasses ready within just a few hours. It is a great option if you need a new pair or want an affordable spare pair to take home as a souvenir.
For a more traditional shopping experience, head to the Hoi An Central Market. This bustling market is a great place to immerse yourself in local life and find a wide variety of souvenirs.
You can browse stalls selling everything from silk scarves and leather goods to the town's famous lanterns. It is also a fantastic spot to buy local food specialties to take home. A useful tip is to visit the indoor food court, which is considered one of the best places in town to try authentic dishes like Cao Lau and Mi Quang at local prices.
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Hoi An bustling Central Market |
Taking a sampan boat ride on the river is a classic Hoi An experience. While you can do this during the day, it is most popular in the evening when the lanterns are lit.
You can hire one of the many small wooden boats along the riverbank for a short trip. The ride offers a unique perspective of the Ancient Town from the water, as you float past the glowing heritage houses. Many people buy a paper lantern to release into the river for good luck during the ride. A 20-minute ride typically costs around 150,000 to 200,000 VND.
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Sampan boat ride on Thu Bon river at night |
Cycling through the countryside is an iconic Hoi An experience and a great way to escape the busy Old Town. It allows you to slow down and appreciate the simple, rural life of the area.
You can ride through the idyllic scenery of lush rice paddies, see water buffalo grazing, and watch local farmers at work in their fields. A popular route is to cycle from the town to An Bang Beach, passing through the rice fields along the way. Many hotels and homestays offer free bicycles for their guests, or you can rent one for a very low price.
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Riding a bike in Ancient Town Hoi An |
A short cycle ride from the rice fields will lead you to An Bang Beach. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand with calm waters, known for its bohemian and laid-back vibe. It is the perfect place to laze on a sun lounger for the day, read a book, and sip on a cocktail.
The beachfront is lined with excellent restaurants and bars. Some highlights include:
If you'd like to stay right by the sea, An Bang has some fantastic accommodation options:
For travelers who prefer a slower pace, Hoi An also works very well with beach and relaxation tours in Vietnam.
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An Bang Beach Hoi An, a perfect place for relaxation |
My Son Sanctuary is a must-visit for any history buff staying in Hoi An. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fascinating cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples, constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa kings. Located in a lush jungle valley about an hour's drive from Hoi An, it was the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom.
It is a popular day trip from Hoi An. A useful tip is to visit early in the morning to beat the crowds and the intense midday heat, as there is very little shade at the site.
If you enjoy heritage sites like this, Hoi An and My Son are often included in broader culture and history tours in Vietnam.
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A tourist visit the My Son Sanctuary historical sites |
Located between Hoi An and Da Nang, the Marble Mountains are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills named after the five elements. It is a popular half-day trip from Hoi An.
Only one of the mountains, Thuy Son (Water Mountain), is accessible to visitors. You can climb the stone steps to explore a network of caves, tunnels, and ancient pagodas hidden within the mountain. Reaching the top rewards you with panoramic views of Da Nang and the coastline. For those who do not want to climb, there is an elevator that can take you up for an extra fee.
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Inside of the marble mountains - Heavenly Cave |
For a true island escape, consider taking a day trip to the Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham). Many travelers choose a Cham Island snorkeling tour from Hoi An, which usually includes hotel pickup, a speedboat transfer, and time to explore the surrounding waters. This cluster of eight islands lies about 15 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An and is recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The islands are known for their beautiful beaches and clear waters, making them one of the best places near Hoi An for snorkeling and diving among coral reefs. Most Cham Island snorkeling tours from Hoi An depart by speedboat from Cua Dai Beach, with the journey taking about 20 minutes.
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An aerial view of the beautiful Cu Lao Cham Island |
If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with the Full Moon Lantern Festival. This special event is held on the 14th day of every lunar month.
On this night, the Ancient Town switches off its electric lights and the streets are illuminated only by the soft glow of thousands of colorful lanterns. Locals and visitors alike buy paper lanterns, make a wish, and release them onto the Hoai River, creating a beautiful spectacle.
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The city lights up for Hoi An Lantern Festival |
For a unique evening of entertainment, consider watching the Teh Dar: Vietnamese Bamboo Circus show. Often compared to a Vietnamese version of Cirque du Soleil, this performance tells stories of the tribal cultures of Vietnam's Central Highlands.
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Tribal cultures show at Teh Dar bamboo circus show |
Yes, a trip to Hoi An is absolutely worth it. It is one of the most famous places in Vietnam for a good reason. While the Ancient Town can be very touristy, especially during the high season, its charm is undeniable.
The history and culture in Hoi An are like nowhere else in Vietnam. The experience of walking through the lantern-lit streets at night, exploring the ancient buildings, and enjoying the incredible food scene is truly special.
There is also more to Hoi An than just the main tourist area. The peaceful countryside and relaxing beaches offer a great escape from the crowds. By planning your time wisely, you can easily enjoy both the vibrant atmosphere of the town and its quieter, more authentic side.
The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April.
During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, with minimal rainfall and moderate temperatures. This period offers the perfect conditions for sightseeing, leisurely strolls, and beach activities. Various festivals, like the Hoi An Lantern Festival, also often take place during this season, allowing you to see the streets come alive with festive lights.
However, you should note that this can also be a crowded and expensive time to visit. Prices for flights and hotels may be at their highest.
If you want to travel on a budget or enjoy a less touristy Hoi An, you should consider visiting during the wet season. There will be fewer tourists, and the prices for airline tickets, hotels, and restaurant services are more reasonable, but also at a cost of raining and flooding, so if you want to visit in these month you should check the weather regularly.
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Hoi An’s flood might be ruining trips |
Learn more: When is the Best Time to Visit Hoi An in Vietnam?
Hoi An does not have its own airport or train station. The main gateway to the ancient town is the nearby city of Da Nang, which is well-connected to the rest of Vietnam and internationally.
If you prefer to avoid arranging transfers separately, many travelers choose a Da Nang and Hoi An tour package that already includes transport and sightseeing.
The ideal length of stay in Hoi An depends on your travel style and the experiences you want to include. However, for most travelers, 3 days and 2 nights is considered the best amount of time to explore the town at a relaxed pace.
If this is your first trip to Central Vietnam, Hoi An is often best visited as part of a broader regional itinerary. Many travelers combine Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An in one trip. A 4-day Central Vietnam itinerary covers the main highlights, while a 5-day itinerary offers a more balanced pace. For a more comfortable journey with time for culture, food, and day trips, a 6-day tour of Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An is often the ideal choice.
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You should stay at least two to three days to fully experience Hoi An |
Hoi An offers a range of places to stay, from small homestays in the Old Town to boutique resorts by the beach. The best area depends on whether you want to be near the ancient streets or close to the sea.
Tip: Book early for February to April or June to August. Both areas fill quickly during festival season.
If you are still deciding where to stay and how long to spend here, browsing a few short Vietnam getaways can help you compare different travel styles.
Here are some quick tips to make your trip easier and more enjoyable:
Hoi An offers you a compact mix of culture, history and relaxed pace in a single location. With a bit of planning, like picking the right season, staying in the right area and keeping logistics simple, you will avoid common travel stress. Spend at least a few days so you can explore the Old Town, countryside and beach without rushing.
For the safest and most complete experience, work with a local expert who handles transport, weather and custom schedules. When you are ready, reach out and let your Vietnam trip start on the right foot.
If you need help creating a detailed itinerary, our local experts at Your Vietnam Travel can design anything from short Hoi An getaways to Central Vietnam tours and fully tailor-made Vietnam tour packages that match your interests and schedule.
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