Top Things to Do in Hoi An

Top Things to Do in Hoi An…

Of the three cities I’ve had the chance to visit in Vietnam, I think Hoi An may be my favorite. Full of unique market, delicious food, beautiful countryside, and thousands of lanterns, Hoi An should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list!

To help you put together the best itinerary, I have created this list of all the top attractions, hotels and food found in this beautiful city.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Hoi An Old Town

If you are wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of Vietnam, Old Town is the perfect place for you. Small enough area to get around on foot, Old Town is great for walking. Many streets are limited to bikes and motorbikes with specific ones reserved for pedestrians only.

This is the best part of town to find that custom tailored outfit, souvenirs for friends/family, and some of the most amazing food you’ll ever have.

Many buildings in the Old Town were constructed over a century ago and feature strong Chinese influences. With Chinese temples, a Japanese-designed bridge, pagodas, wooden shop-houses, French-colonial houses, and old canals, this charming little city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in December 1999.

Hoi An Central & Night Market

Markets are a great way to explore a new city and learn more about that country’s culture. With that being said, I always seem to end up in one at some point!

For a true cultural experience, head down to the market bright and early to watch locals purchase all of their fresh fish, meat, fruit, and veggies. After a busy day exploring the rest of the city, head back at night to walk the beautiful street lined with colorful lanterns.

Take a trip to the countryside

If you only have time to do one thing in Hoi An, I highly recommend this be that thing. I decided to purchase a tour ticket for a countryside bike tour and it was one of the best tours I have ever been on.

Throughout the 6 hour tour, we ended up biking about 4 miles through rice fields, boat shops, local neighborhoods, and wood shops. This was the tour company that I went with and I can not say enough good things about them!

Vietnamese Cooking Class

Cooking is one of my favorite things to do at home. I love learning about different cuisines around the world and this cooking class let me do just that. The morning stated with a walk through the market to purchase fresh ingredients, followed by a ride on a coconut boat and cooking/lunch.

This was the cooking class that I participated in and loved it.

Hoi An Lantern Full Moon Festival

Hoi An is known for lanterns and the Lantern Festival was probably one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. The small town is lined with thousands of colorful lanterns floating down the river and hanging from buildings as a way to worship their ancestors as well as the God of the land

The main lantern festival takes place every month on the night of the full moon. This is definitely something you do not want to miss!!

Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Hoi An. Built in the 16th-century, this wooden bridge features elaborate carvings & a pedestrian passageway. This is definitly a must see in Hoi An!

Custom Clothing

Vietnam is known for their custom tailored clothing. If you have the time, Hoi An is one of the best places to get a custom dress, shirt, or suit.

If you are looking for a great shop, the best place to go is inside the central market downtown. Here you will find hundreds of little stands with great prices (I got a dress for $30 for reference). Stand 45 was very helpful and not pushy at all!

Explore a Bang Beach

Vietnam has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! If you have any downtime, or want to reserve a day just for the beach, head down to the water and relax! If relaxing is not your thing, take a snorkeling trip in the crystal clear ocean!

Visit My Son Ruins

My Son is a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples in Quảng Nam province. It was constructed between the 4th and the 14th century by the Kings of Champa, an Indianized kingdom of the Cham people.

The entrance fee is around 150,000 VND ($6.45). It includes entrance to the ruins, the museum and a ride on the electric shuttle to the sanctuary.

Take a day trip to Da Nang

Da Nang is about 40 minutes outside of Hoi An and is definitely worth the drive. Between The Golden Bridge, Marble Mountain, and the Dragon Bridge, you are sure to keep busy.

If you want to avoid a taxi, check out the many day-tours from Hoi An.

WHERE TO STAY

Hai Au Boutique Hotel and Spa

If you are anything like me, you like to be right in the center of the main city around all the major attractions. This hotel is located near the main markets and is in walking distance to everything. You also can’t beat the price!!

Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa

This is a great hotel is you are looking for something a little nicer, but also right in the center of the city near the markets. They offer amazing amenities but is a little pricer than the option above.

Ally Beach Boutique Hotel Hoian

If you are more of a beach person rather than a city person, this is the hotel for you! It’s located right on the water and is only a 10 minute taxi right to all of the shops/markets. Between the affordable price, and the great view, you’ll never want to leave!

Hostels

If you are a solo traveler, or just looking for a more budget friendly option, hostels are the way to go. Hoi An Love.Ly Hostel, Tribee Bana heritage hostel, and Hoi An Lazy Bear Hostel are some of the best at about $10 a night!

HOI AN’S BEST EATS

Bánh Mì Thập Cẩm (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)

Just like the name states, BánhMì is basically just a baguette sandwich. There are many different variations but the best, in my opinion, was made with pork. If you are wanting to try one of these Vietnamese staples, I recommend purchasing one from a street vendor (they are the best).

Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk)

Vietnam is known for their coffee. As someone who is not a big coffee drinker, I only took one sip of it but it was actually pretty good. Every restaurant has Cà Phê Sữa Đá on the menu so don’t worry about trying to find it.

Vietnamese Spring Rolls

You can’t go wrong with a Vietnamese Spring Roll! Depending on where you go, they will be filled with different ingredients but the peanut sauce is always there! This is a must!!

VIETNAM TRAVEL GUIDES