🏆 A Global Recognition for Vietnam’s Cultural Treasure
The ancient town of Hoi An in central Vietnam has been named one of the Best Cities in the World in 2025, according to Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual readers’ survey. This achievement not only highlights Hoi An’s global appeal but also marks another milestone for Vietnam’s tourism industry.
Every year, millions of travelers vote on the world’s top destinations, considering factors like culture, food, friendliness, and sustainability. Hoi An consistently ranks near the top thanks to its timeless beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unmatched hospitality.
🌸 The Charm of a Living Museum
Nestled along the Thu Bon River, Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural fusion. Once a bustling international trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An reflects influences from Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants who once called the city home.
Strolling through Hoi An feels like stepping back in time. The narrow yellow-walled streets, wooden shop houses, ornate temples, and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge create a postcard-perfect setting. As dusk falls, thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the town, casting a magical glow that enchants every visitor.
Fun fact: Hoi An is often called “The City of Lanterns” — a symbol of peace, good luck, and prosperity.
🍜 A Culinary Paradise in Central Vietnam
Food is an essential part of Hoi An’s charm. The town is often featured in travel magazines as one of Asia’s best culinary destinations. Local dishes combine the flavors of central Vietnam with international influences, resulting in a cuisine that’s both authentic and creative.
Must-try specialties include:
- Cao Lau – chewy noodles with pork, greens, and herbs, made from water drawn from ancient wells.
- Mi Quang – turmeric noodles served with shrimp, pork, and roasted peanuts.
- Banh Mi Phuong – the legendary Vietnamese sandwich that even Anthony Bourdain praised as the best in the world.
- White Rose Dumplings – delicate shrimp dumplings shaped like flowers, unique to Hoi An.
For a full experience, visitors can join a Hoi An cooking class or explore the Central Market where local vendors sell fresh herbs, spices, and street food favorites.
💛 The Heart of Hoi An: Its People
Beyond its scenic beauty and rich history, Hoi An’s soul lies in its people. Locals are known for their warmth, generosity, and hospitality. Whether it’s a tailor offering a custom-made suit, a vendor guiding you through the market, or a family welcoming you into their homestay, every encounter feels personal and genuine.
This sense of connection is one reason travelers return again and again. According to Travel + Leisure readers, Hoi An’s friendliness and authenticity are among the top reasons it continues to earn global recognition.
🚲 Sustainable Tourism and Eco-Friendly Travel
In recent years, Hoi An has made impressive progress toward becoming a green travel destination. The city has introduced eco-friendly initiatives like car-free zones, bicycle-sharing programs, and plastic-free campaigns. Visitors are encouraged to explore by foot or bike, enjoying scenic rice paddies, coconut groves, and nearby beaches in an environmentally conscious way.
Local businesses have also embraced sustainability — from eco-lodges built with recycled materials to organic restaurants supporting local farmers. The result is a destination that thrives not only culturally but also ecologically.
Tip: Rent a bicycle and cycle through Tra Que Vegetable Village or take a bamboo boat ride through Cam Thanh Coconut Forest — both showcase Hoi An’s commitment to sustainable living.
🏖️ Beyond the Old Town: Beaches and Nature Escapes
While Hoi An’s Old Town steals the spotlight, its surroundings offer equally breathtaking experiences.
- An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are perfect for a day of sunbathing, seafood, and surfing.
- Cham Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve just 30 minutes away by boat, offers pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters ideal for diving.
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village and Kim Bong Carpentry Village provide immersive cultural experiences for travelers who love traditional crafts.
Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Hoi An offers the perfect balance of both.
🎭 Festivals and Lantern Nights
Every month during the Full Moon Festival, Hoi An transforms into a magical wonderland. Electric lights are turned off, and the streets glow under thousands of lanterns floating along the Thu Bon River. Locals and visitors gather to release paper lanterns, make wishes, and enjoy traditional music and performances.
This monthly celebration captures the spirit of Hoi An — peaceful, spiritual, and timeless — making it one of the most memorable experiences for travelers.
✈️ Visiting Hoi An in 2025: What Travelers Should Know
Best time to visit:
- February to April: Dry, cool weather — ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
- May to August: Great beach season.
- September to January: Rainy season with fewer tourists and lower prices.
How to get there:
- By air: Fly to Da Nang International Airport (30 km away) from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or international hubs.
- By road: Regular bus and train connections link Da Nang and Hoi An.
Travel tip: Stay at least three nights to experience both the old town charm and nearby natural beauty.
🧭 Why Hoi An Deserves Its Place Among the World’s Best Cities
Hoi An’s enduring popularity lies in its balance between heritage and modern hospitality. It is a city that has learned to evolve while preserving what matters most — its culture, people, and soul.
From the lantern-lit evenings to the gentle rhythm of river life, every moment in Hoi An feels poetic. It’s not just a place you visit — it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
As travelers seek destinations that are authentic, sustainable, and emotionally enriching, Hoi An stands proudly among the world’s finest cities in 2025 — a living proof that Vietnam’s heart beats strongest in this little town by the river.