Welcome to Hoi An, Vietnam’s most enchanting town — a place where history, culture, and beauty come together in perfect harmony. This ancient riverside city, once a bustling trading port, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit stop on any Vietnam itinerary.
With its lantern-lit alleys, charming colonial buildings, and laid-back beaches, Hoi An offers endless activities for travelers of every kind. Whether you’re a foodie, a photographer, or just seeking a peaceful escape, here’s your ultimate guide to the top things to do in Hoi An.
1. Wander Through the Hoi An Ancient Town
The heart of Hoi An is its Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved district dating back over 500 years. Its cobblestone streets and mustard-yellow houses tell stories of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese merchants who once traded here.
Don’t miss these key attractions:
Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu): Built in the 17th century, this iconic landmark symbolizes Hoi An’s cultural fusion.
Phung Hung and Tan Ky Ancient Houses: Step inside to see how wealthy merchants once lived, complete with carved wood interiors and antique furniture.
Assembly Halls: The Fujian and Cantonese Assembly Halls are filled with ornate shrines and dragon sculptures.
💡 Tip: Purchase an entrance ticket (120,000 VND) to access several heritage sites and support preservation efforts.
🏮 “Hoi An isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a feeling you carry long after you leave.” – Luke Nguyen
2. Experience Hoi An’s Magical Lantern Nights
When the sun sets, Hoi An transforms into a fairy-tale wonderland. Thousands of silk lanterns light up the streets, bridges, and riverbanks, creating a dreamy atmosphere you’ll never forget.
Visit during the Full Moon Lantern Festival (held every 14th lunar day) to see locals release floating candles onto the Thu Bon River — a centuries-old tradition for good luck.
Stroll through Nguyen Phuc Chu Street or the Hoi An Night Market to shop for souvenirs, try local snacks, and take postcard-perfect photos.
3. Explore by Bicycle
Hoi An is flat, scenic, and perfect for cycling. Most hotels offer free bikes, so hop on and start exploring!
Cycle through:
Tra Que Vegetable Village: See organic herbs being cultivated using traditional methods and try a short farming class.
Cam Thanh Coconut Village: Ride a basket boat through lush palm canals, enjoy crab fishing, and watch local demonstrations.
🚲 Tip: Go early in the morning or before sunset for cooler weather and soft golden light — perfect for photos.
4. Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Food is the soul of Hoi An. Join a local cooking class and learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dishes like Cao Lau, Banh Xeo, and fresh spring rolls.
Popular choices include:
- Red Bridge Cooking School (with a river cruise)
- Tra Que Garden Cooking Class
- Green Bamboo Cooking School
These hands-on experiences usually start with a market tour where you’ll buy fresh herbs and seafood — the perfect way to connect with local life.
5. Relax on An Bang Beach
Just a 10-minute ride from the old town, An Bang Beach offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Stretch out on the soft sand, swim in the turquoise sea, or unwind at beachfront bars like Soul Kitchen, The DeckHouse, and Salt Pub.
🌅 Tip: Visit at sunrise for a quiet, local vibe — or at sunset for cocktails and live music.
6. Visit the Hoi An Central Market
Located by the Thu Bon River, the Central Market is a lively spot to taste, shop, and soak in local culture.
You’ll find:
- Fresh fruits, herbs, and spices
- Traditional dishes like Mi Quang and White Rose Dumplings
- Tailor shops offering custom-made suits and dresses within 24–48 hours
This is also a great place to practice your bargaining skills — with a smile, of course!
7. Take a Day Trip to My Son Sanctuary
A short 45-minute drive from Hoi An lies My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of ancient Hindu temples built by the Cham civilization between the 4th and 13th centuries.
This mystical site, surrounded by jungle-clad mountains, is often compared to Angkor Wat. Visit early in the morning to enjoy the cool air and peaceful atmosphere.
Many tours include a boat ride back to Hoi An, adding a scenic touch to your cultural adventure.
8. Watch the Hoi An Memories Show
If you’re looking for something spectacular, don’t miss the Hoi An Memories Show, one of the most impressive live performances in Vietnam.
With over 500 dancers, elaborate costumes, and a massive outdoor stage on Hoi An Impression Island, the show tells the town’s story through dance, music, and light.
🎟️ Tickets can be booked online or at the venue — it’s worth every penny for this immersive cultural experience.
9. Cruise Along the Thu Bon River
For a romantic experience, take a sunset river cruise on the Thu Bon River. Whether you choose a private wooden boat or a group tour, the golden hour views of Hoi An’s skyline and lantern reflections are unforgettable.
You can even enjoy dinner on board, making it one of the most relaxing things to do in Hoi An.
10. Discover the Hoi An Countryside
Beyond the town center, Hoi An’s countryside offers authentic glimpses of Vietnamese rural life.
Take a vintage Jeep, scooter, or eco-tour through rice paddies, buffalo fields, and quiet fishing villages. Stop by:
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village – watch artisans mold clay using centuries-old techniques.
- Duy Vinh Mat Weaving Village – see locals hand-weave mats from river reeds.
These off-the-beaten-path adventures show a more genuine, slower-paced Vietnam.
11. Visit During Local Festivals
Hoi An is even more colorful during its traditional festivals.
- Lantern Festival: Held monthly — the town turns off electric lights and glows with candles and lanterns.
- Tet (Lunar New Year): Streets fill with flowers, parades, and lucky charms.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: A family event with lion dances and mooncakes.
Plan your visit around these dates to experience Hoi An’s joyful spirit at its peak.
12. Enjoy Vietnam’s Coffee Culture
Finally, take a moment to slow down and sip Vietnamese coffee.
Try:
- Hoi An Roastery – famous for rich, locally roasted beans.
- Phin Coffee – for authentic “phin drip” experience.
- Cocobox – for coconut coffee and smoothie bowls in a rustic setting.
Whether you’re people-watching in the old town or journaling by the river, coffee in Hoi An tastes like pure relaxation.
Final Thoughts
Hoi An is more than just a destination — it’s an experience. From cycling through rice fields to floating lanterns on the river, every moment here feels timeless.
No matter how long you stay, Hoi An will capture your heart with its warmth, beauty, and charm. So pack light, rent a bike, and let the golden glow of this ancient town guide your next adventure.