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Hoi An Travel Guide - Top Attractions And Travel Tips

Hoi An is one of the most charming destinations in central Vietnam, known for its well-preserved ancient town and relaxed atmosphere. This Hoi An travel guide helps you plan the perfect trip, whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore more. From iconic Hoi An attractions to the top things to do in Hoi An, the city offers a unique mix of culture, beaches, cuisine and rural life. If you are planning to travel to Hoi An, this guide covers essential Hoi An travel tips, practical advice and inspiration to help you visit Hoi An with confidence and make the most of your Hoi An Vietnam travel experience.

I. Why travel to Hoi An in Vietnam ?

Hoi An is located in central Vietnam, in Quang Nam Province, about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang. Its strategic position makes it an easy stop when traveling between Hue, Da Nang and other destinations in central Vietnam. Set between rivers, rice fields and the coastline, Hoi An offers a perfect balance of culture, nature and relaxation for travelers.

In recent years, Hoi An has also been part of a broader administrative and regional reorganization, strengthening its connection with neighboring areas in central Vietnam. For visitors, this means improved infrastructure, smoother transportation links and better regional coordination. Combined with its UNESCO-listed ancient town, peaceful lifestyle and diverse attractions, these developments make traveling to Hoi An in Vietnam more convenient and appealing than ever.

II. What to Know Before Visiting Hoi An

Before visiting Hoi An, it is helpful to understand a few practical aspects that can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. From choosing the right season to planning transportation and accommodation, this Hoi An travel guide covers the essential information you need to travel to Hoi An with confidence and make the most of your stay.

1. Best Time to Visit Hoi An

The climate plays a major role in planning your Hoi An Vietnam travel, as the city experiences two distinct seasons.

• The dry season (February to August): This is the best time to visit Hoi An. From February to April, temperatures are pleasant, humidity is low, and conditions are ideal for sightseeing in the Ancient Town. From May to August, the weather becomes hotter, making it perfect to combine cultural visits with beach time at An Bang or Cua Dai.
• The rainy season (September to January): Rainfall is more frequent, with possible flooding in the Old Town during October and November. To fully enjoy your trip, it is important to choose the right period. Try to visit Hoi An during the full moon (14th day of the lunar calendar) to experience the iconic Lantern Festival, a highlight in every Hoi An travel guide.

2. How to Get to and Around Hoi An

• Arriving in Hoi An

Hoi An does not have its own airport. The main gateway is Da Nang International Airport, located about 30 km from Hoi An, with direct flights from major cities in Vietnam and abroad. For a scenic experience, traveling by train is highly recommended. The famous “Central Vietnam Heritage Railway” connects Hue and Da Nang, crossing the spectacular Hai Van Pass. This journey is considered one of the most beautiful train routes in Vietnam and adds a memorable experience to your trip. Sleeper buses also operate daily from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Nha Trang, offering a budget-friendly option to travel to Hoi An.

• Getting around once you’re there

Exploring Hoi An is easy and enjoyable thanks to its compact size and traveler-friendly transport options. Whether you prefer slow travel or convenience, getting around is part of the experience when you visit Hoi An.

• On foot: The Ancient Town is pedestrian-only at certain hours, ideal for wandering among lantern-lit streets.
• By bicycle: A signature experience in Hoi An. Cycling through rice paddies toward the beach is a must, and many hotels provide free bikes.
• Cyclo-rickshaws: Perfect for a slow, nostalgic ride along the Thu Bon River.
• Taxis & ride-hailing apps: Grab, Xanh SM (electric taxis), and Be are affordable and convenient for visiting places like My Son Sanctuary or Cam Thanh coconut forest.

3. Where to Stay in Hoi An

Choosing accommodation is an essential part of planning your Hoi An itinerary, depending on your travel style and budget.

• Historic center and nearby areas: Ideal for first-time visitors who want to stay close to major attractions. You’ll find many charming 3-star hotels in Hoi An, as well as comfortable 4-star hotels within walking distance of the Old Town.
• Beach areas (An Bang & Cua Dai): Perfect for travelers seeking relaxation. These areas host most of the 5-star hotels in Hoi An, offering beachfront views, resorts, and luxury services.
• Countryside areas (Cam Thanh & Tra Que): For a more authentic Hoi An Vietnam travel experience, choose a homestay or villa surrounded by rice fields. It’s a peaceful alternative while still being close to the town.

III. What to do in Hoi An ? Essential Experiences

Discovering Hoi An Vietnam, means letting go of time. This charming town offers a perfect balance of cultural heritage, sensory experiences, and moments of relaxation. Whether you are passionate about history, food, or nature, the variety of things to do in Hoi An makes it a highlight of any trip to Vietnam.

1. Explore Hoi An ancient town

What to do in Hoi An ? Exploring the Ancient Town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the starting point of any visit. This historic quarter was once a thriving trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries, welcoming merchants from China, Japan, and Europe. Today, its preserved architecture, ochre-yellow houses, tiled roofs, and flower-filled balconies create a timeless atmosphere that defines Hoi An Vietnam travel.

• The Japanese covered bridge (Chua Cau):

Built in the early 17th century, this iconic wooden bridge connected the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the old port. Beyond its architectural beauty, the bridge holds spiritual significance, with a small temple dedicated to a protective deity. It remains the most photographed landmark and a symbol featured in every Hoi An travel guide.

• Ancestral houses:

Historic merchant homes such as Tan Ky House and Phung Hung House offer insight into the daily life of wealthy trading families. These houses showcase a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese influences, with carved wooden beams, open courtyards and flood-adapted architecture that has stood the test of time.

• Lantern magic at dusk:

As evening falls, Hoi An transforms into a fairy-tale setting illuminated by thousands of silk lanterns. Strolling through the old streets or taking a traditional boat ride on the Thu Bon River to release floating lanterns is one of the most romantic and unforgettable experiences when you visit Hoi An.

• Ancient assembly halls:

The Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuoc Kien) is the most impressive, once serving as a gathering place for Chinese merchants. Its ornate entrance, dragon sculptures, colorful altars, and massive incense coils create a spiritual and mystical atmosphere unique to Hoi An Vietnam.

• Hoi An Central Market:

Located near the river, the market is a vibrant hub of daily life. Here, visitors can explore local produce, sample street food, buy spices and souvenirs, and better understand why gastronomy plays such an essential role in any trip to Hoi An Vietnam.

2. Enjoy the beaches around Hoi An

Beyond the historic charm of the Old Town, Hoi An also offers easy access to some of the most pleasant beaches in Central Vietnam. Just a short bike or scooter ride from the city center, the coastline provides a refreshing contrast to cultural sightseeing and adds a relaxing dimension to any Hoi An Vietnam travel experience. An Bang Beach is the most popular choice, known for its laid-back vibe, soft white sand, and clear blue water. Lined with casual beach bars and seafood restaurants right on the shore, it is the perfect place to unwind after exploring the Ancient Town.

For those seeking a quieter and less crowded alternative, Ha My Beach offers a more peaceful atmosphere. This long stretch of sand is ideal for morning walks, swimming, or enjoying the sea breeze in a calm, natural setting. It appeals especially to travelers looking for tranquility during their trip to Hoi An. For a more adventurous experience, a day trip to the Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) is highly recommended. Located offshore from Hoi An, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve boasts crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine life. Snorkeling, diving, and island hopping here are among the best things to do in Hoi An for nature and sea lovers, making it a memorable highlight of any Hoi An itinerary.

3. Discover local crafts and traditional villages

Exploring traditional crafts is an authentic and meaningful way to experience Hoi An, Vietnam. The town is especially famous for its lantern-making workshops, where the colorful silk lanterns that illuminate the Ancient Town are handcrafted. Visitors can join short workshops to learn the process and create their own lanterns as a unique souvenir. Hoi An is also renowned for its tailor shops, a legacy of its trading past. Skilled tailors can produce custom-made clothing in just a few days, combining quality craftsmanship with personalized design. Beyond the town center, nearby craft villages such as Thanh Ha pottery village and Kim Bong carpentry village offer deeper insight into long-standing artisan traditions, allowing travelers to understand the cultural heritage behind Hoi An’s creative identity.

4. Taste the local cuisine in Hoi An

Food is at the heart of every trip to Hoi An and plays a central role in the city’s cultural identity. Exploring local dishes is one of the best ways to truly experience Hoi An Vietnam. Among the must-try foods in Hoi An, several iconic specialties stand out:

• Cao Lau: The most emblematic dish of Hoi An, featuring thick, chewy noodles topped with grilled pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons. Its distinctive taste comes from alkaline water traditionally drawn from ancient local wells, making it exclusive to the region.

• Banh Mi Hoi An: Often ranked among the best sandwiches in the world, Hoi An’s banh mi stands out for its extra-crispy baguette, rich pâté, marinated meats, fresh herbs, and signature homemade sauces.
• White Rose (Banh Bao Vac): These delicate, translucent dumplings filled with shrimp are carefully shaped like white flowers and served with a light dipping sauce. They are both visually elegant and subtly flavored.
• Com Ga (Chicken Rice): A comforting local favorite made with turmeric-infused rice, tender shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and pickled onions.

5. Experience rural life around Hoi An

For a different and more authentic perspective, exploring the countryside surrounding Hoi An is a must when you visit Hoi An. Beyond the Ancient Town, rural areas reveal a slower pace of life and enrich any Hoi An Vietnam travel experience with cultural and natural discoveries. The Tra Que vegetable village, located just a few kilometers from the center, offers hands-on experiences in traditional organic farming. This is one of the most meaningful things to do in Hoi An for travelers seeking authenticity.

The Cam Thanh coconut forest provides another unique rural escape. Exploring the palm-lined waterways by traditional basket boat is both fun and educational, offering a glimpse into local fishing culture and daily life in the countryside around Hoi An. A little further away, the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the spiritual and architectural legacy of the ancient Cham civilization. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this sacred complex adds historical depth to any Hoi An itinerary and completes a well-rounded Hoi An travel guide experience.

IV. How much does a trip to Hoi An cost ?

The cost of a trip to Hoi An remains relatively affordable, making it a popular destination when traveling in Vietnam. Daily budgets vary depending on travel style but remain accessible to most travelers.

• Accommodation: from $15-30 per night for a comfortable guesthouse, $40-80 for a boutique or mid-range hotel and $100+ for a beachfront resort or luxury stay.
• Meals: street food and local restaurants cost around $3-6 per meal, while a more refined restaurant typically ranges from $10-15.
• Transportation and activities: bicycle or scooter rentals are inexpensive, and entrance tickets to the Old Town, craft workshops or short excursions generally cost $5-15.

Traveling to Hoi An allows you to easily control your budget while enjoying a rich and varied Hoi An Vietnam travel experience.

V. Practical tips for traveling to Hoi An Vietnam

To make the most of your Hoi An Vietnam travel, a few practical tips can help you enjoy a smooth and memorable stay.

• The Ancient Town can get crowded between late morning and mid-afternoon. Visiting early in the morning or after sunset allows you to enjoy a calmer atmosphere and better photo opportunities.
• Hoi An is flat and compact, making cycling one of the best ways to explore the town, beaches, and nearby villages. Many hotels provide bicycles free of charge.
• Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. When visiting temples or religious sites, remember to dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees.
• Small shops and markets often prefer cash, while ride-hailing apps like Grab or Xanh SM are convenient for longer trips.
• Be mindful when taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas and markets. A smile and polite attitude go a long way when you visit Hoi An.

Hoi An is one of the most charming destinations in Vietnam, offering a perfect mix of heritage, culture, and relaxation. From exploring the Ancient Town and discovering must-try foods in Hoi An to enjoying nearby beaches and countryside villages, the variety of things to do in Hoi An suits every travel style. This Hoi An travel guide shows why the city is an essential stop for anyone planning Hoi An Vietnam travel. Easy to navigate and affordable, it is a destination you will want to return to. With Autour Asia - Vietnam travel agent, visit Hoi An and explore more of Vietnam through tailor-made journeys designed around your interests.