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Hoi An
🇻🇳 Vietnam

Hoi An

Ancient Town, Lanterns, and Culinary Delights — Step back in time in Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its remarkably preserved Ancient Town. This charming port city captivates with its blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, evident in its architecture and vibrant culture.

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Hoi An in 60 seconds

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  • 📍Top places to visit: Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Museum
  • 🍽️What to eat: Cao Lau, White Rose Dumplings, Mi Quang
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: The dry season from February to August offers sunny days and pleasant…

Good to know

Best time to visit
The dry season from February to August offers sunny days and pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring. Avoid the heavy rains of October and November.
Getting around
The Ancient Town is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and Grab are readily available for longer distances outside the pedestrian zones.
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND). Many places in the tourist areas accept US dollars, but using Dong generally yields better rates.
Language
Vietnamese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Safety
Hoi An is generally very safe for tourists. Be aware of petty theft in crowded markets and watch out for traffic when cycling.
Daily budget
Budget: $25-40, Midrange: $40-70 per day
💶 Travel money in Hoi AnCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Hoi An
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Top places to visit

1Landmark

Hoi An Ancient Town

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this beautifully preserved trading port boasts charming yellow buildings, atmospheric alleyways, and iconic lanterns.

2Landmark

Japanese Covered Bridge

An iconic symbol of Hoi An, this 16th-century bridge features a pagoda inside and intricate carvings.

3Museum

Hoi An Museum

Discover the history and culture of Hoi An, from its trading past to its present-day preservation efforts.

4Beach

An Bang Beach

A beautiful stretch of sand just a short ride from the Ancient Town, perfect for relaxing and swimming.

5Park

Tra Que Vegetable Village

Visit this organic vegetable farm to see traditional farming methods and even try your hand at gardening.

6Market

Central Market

A bustling hub for local life, offering fresh produce, street food, souvenirs, and a glimpse into daily commerce.

7Temple

Fukian Assembly Hall

A stunning example of Chinese architecture, this ornate assembly hall was built by the Fujian Chinese community.

8Landmark

Old House of Tan Ky

One of the best-preserved ancient houses, showcasing a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles.

9Café

Reaching Out Tea House

A serene and quiet cafe that employs deaf and mute staff, offering a unique and meaningful coffee experience.

10Nightlife

Night Market

As dusk falls, the riverside transforms into a vibrant market filled with colorful lanterns, food stalls, and local crafts.

11Shopping

Hoi An Tailors

Hoi An is famous for its affordable and high-quality custom tailoring; get bespoke clothes made in just a day or two.

12Activity

Cooking Class

Learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes with hands-on cooking classes often including a market visit.

13Activity

Lantern Making Workshop

Create your own beautiful Hoi An lantern to take home as a unique souvenir from a hands-on workshop.

14Activity

Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Explore a traditional pottery village where artisans have been crafting ceramics for centuries using age-old techniques.

15Viewpoint

Hoi An Riverside

Stroll along the Thu Bon River, especially magical at sunset when hundreds of lanterns illuminate the water.

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Things to do

Wander the Ancient Town

Get lost in the maze of narrow streets, admiring the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Take a boat trip on the Thu Bon River

Enjoy a peaceful sunset cruise and release a lantern for good luck.

Get custom-made clothing

Visit one of the many skilled tailors to have clothes made to measure at great prices.

Cycle through rice paddies

Rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside surrounding Hoi An.

Relax at the beach

Spend a day soaking up the sun and swimming at nearby An Bang or Cua Dai Beach.

Experience a cooking class

Learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine and prepare delicious local dishes yourself.

Where to stay

Ancient Town

Ideal for first-time visitors and culture enthusiasts wanting to be at the heart of the action and history.

Cam Chau

Suits travelers seeking a more local experience, with rice paddies and homestays close to the Ancient Town.

Cam An

Perfect for beach lovers, offering proximity to An Bang Beach and a more relaxed coastal vibe.

Tan An

A good option for budget travelers, offering more affordable accommodation and local eateries just outside the main tourist hub.

What to eat

Cao Lau

A regional noodle dish with pork and local greens, known for its chewy noodles made with water from a specific ancient well.

White Rose Dumplings

Delicate steamed dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, shaped like white roses and topped with crispy fried shallots.

Mi Quang

Turmeric-infused noodles served in a flavorful broth with shrimp, pork, peanuts, and fresh herbs.

Banh Mi Hoi An

A delicious Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with a variety of savory ingredients, often considered some of the best in Vietnam.

Com Ga Hoi An

Shredded chicken mixed with onions and herbs, served over turmeric-infused rice.

Che

A sweet Vietnamese dessert soup or pudding, with many variations featuring fruits, beans, jellies, and coconut milk.

Day trips

My Son Sanctuary

Explore these ancient Champa ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located about an hour's drive from Hoi An.

Da Nang

Visit Vietnam's third-largest city, known for its beaches, Marble Mountains, and Dragon Bridge, approximately 45 minutes away.

Cham Islands

Take a ferry or speedboat to these beautiful islands for snorkeling, diving, and pristine beaches, about 30-45 minutes by boat.

Insider tips

  • Buy a ticket to enter the Ancient Town; it grants access to several historical houses and museums.
  • Get clothing tailor-made – it's a signature Hoi An experience and surprisingly affordable.
  • Wake up early to experience the Ancient Town before the crowds arrive.
  • Rent a bicycle to explore the town and surrounding countryside at your own pace.
  • Be prepared for the heat and humidity, especially during summer months.
  • Try the local specialties; Hoi An is a culinary paradise.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
S
Sarah K.
Canada
★★★★★
last month

Hoi An is pure magic! We loved cycling through the rice paddies and exploring the ancient town at night when the lanterns glow. Don't miss the Banh Mi Phuong – it's truly the best I've ever tasted!

H
Hiroshi T.
Japan
★★★★★
in April

The tailoring in Hoi An is exceptional. I had a custom suit made in just two days, and the quality is outstanding for the price. Wandering the lantern-lit streets at night was a beautiful experience.

I
Isabelle D.
France
★★★★☆
a few weeks ago

Hoi An's ancient town is incredibly charming, though it can get quite crowded. The food scene is amazing; Cao Lau is a must-try dish. We enjoyed a peaceful boat ride on the river at sunset, which was a highlight.

D
David R.
United States
★★★★★
in May

Absolutely loved Hoi An! The vibrant lanterns, delicious street food, and friendly locals made for an unforgettable trip. We took a cooking class and learned to make fresh spring rolls – highly recommend!

P
Priya S.
India
★★★★★
last December

Hoi An exceeded all expectations. The blend of history, culture, and delicious food is perfect. We spent our days exploring the markets and our evenings admiring the illuminated lanterns reflected in the Thu Bon River.

Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries can enter Vietnam visa-free for short stays, while others need to apply for an e-visa or visa in advance. Check the latest regulations for your specific country before traveling.
What is the best way to exchange money?
While major hotels and some shops accept USD, exchanging money to Vietnamese Dong (VND) at local banks or reputable exchange bureaus will often give you a better rate. ATMs are also widely available.
Is Hoi An suitable for families?
Yes, Hoi An is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy cycling, visiting the beaches, participating in cooking classes, and exploring the colorful Ancient Town. There are also many kid-friendly restaurants.
How far is Hoi An from Da Nang Airport?
Hoi An is located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Da Nang International Airport (DAD). The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour by taxi or pre-booked transfer.

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