Things To Do In Hoi An

Its historic center is home to old mansions restored from the time when Hoi An was a prosperous port, a delightful Japanese bridge, temples of Chinese congregations, alleys with colonial houses, low and yellow in color. The archaeological site of My Son, ancient kingdom of Champa still completes Hoi An historically.

A pretty seaside stopover, Hoi An boasts beautiful beaches with glittering sand and deliciously clear water. Paddling in a kayak, pedaling in the countryside in the middle of peaceful rice fields, lazing on the beautiful golden beaches, this is all the charm of Hoi An and its relaxed lifestyle.

What to see in Hoi An

Hoi An is full of charm, where every corner has something worth exploring. From the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and colorful Ancient Town streets to the bustling Hoi An Night Market, peaceful Thu Bon River, and sun-kissed An Bang Beach, there’s always something to see and experience.

Hoi An ancient town

Wandering through the narrow streets, which was once a bustling port for merchants, visitors can admire the delightful low-rise buildings that boast colorful facades and wooden balconies, as well as Chinese congregation houses, temples, pagodas, museums and the iconic Japanese covered bridge.

Lanterns – Emblem of Hoi An

As the day turns into night, Hoi An is transformed by the soft glow of gentle red lanterns, which symbolize happiness and loyalty.

It’s impossible not to be enchanted by the beauty of the thousands of lanterns that adorn the city, whether they’re made of paper, silk, bamboo, or other materials and come in a variety of colors and shades.

You can also buy beautiful handmade lanterns in Hoi An as souvenirs, with prices ranging from just a few dollars (about ~$2-$8 per item) depending on the size and design.

Fujian Assembly Hall – Chaozhou Assembly Hall – Cantonese Assembly Hall

The Fujian Assembly Hall is a renowned tourist attraction in Hoi An, known for its impressive size, stunning beauty and distinct Chinese architecture.

Chaozhou Assembly Hall is a place to worship the gods who control the waves, which the people of Chaozhou believe to pray for smooth sailing.

As for the Cantonese Assembly Hall, it boasts grand and stately architecture and serves as a unique tourist destination in Hoi An where numerous ancient artifacts are preserved.

Hoi An beaches

A Hoi An trip wouldn’t be complete without some beach time. The town’s coastline is calm, clean and perfect for kids to swim or play in the sand. Here are a few great spots for families:

• An Bang Beach – Popular and lively with gentle waves, restaurants and sunbeds for rent. Ideal for a full day by the sea. Many spots offer lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent, making it a comfortable place to relax while the kids play.

• Cua Dai Beach – Quieter, with wide sandy stretches and clear waters with fewer crowds. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for a family swim or a beachside picnic.

Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of Hoi An’s most iconic landmarks, built in the 16th century by the Japanese community to connect different cultural quarters. With its curved roof and wooden frame, the bridge showcases a unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese design. Today, it’s a must-visit spot for photos and sightseeing, best enjoyed in the early morning or at sunset when the area is quieter and beautifully lit.

Cham island

With the guidance of a Hanoi Voyages tour guide, a 30-minute speedboat ride takes visitors to a group of eight islands boasting untouched beaches with blonde sand, coral reefs, beautiful flora consisting of precious woods and medicinal plants, diverse wildlife, and year-round sunshine.

These islands also have an 18th-century architectural heritage and a rare treasure in the form of swiftlets, whose mucus is used to build their nests and is a delicacy, famously used in soup.

The tour includes a visit to Bai Lang Beach, a boat shelter during storms and a fishing village, with the opportunity to observe coral reefs and sunbathe at Chong Beach. The Tay Tang Pagoda is also worth a visit.

Cam Kim village

Cam Kim is included in the protective area surrounding Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An Biosphere Reserve and has a diverse range of plants and animals. It is situated near several rivers and canals, which are integral to the river village style of the area.

A delightful 30-minute ride on the river with a skilled boat rower who is well-versed in handling the basket boat. During the ride, the rower will teach you how to catch crabs and demonstrate the art of weaving various items such as rings, headdresses and baskets using coconut leaves.

Amidst the lush greenery and the rhythmic swaying of the basket boat, you will have a delightful and relaxing experience.

Kim Bong carpentry village

Kim Bong Carpentry Village, previously called Kim Bong Chau, is the birthplace of the renowned traditional handicraft carpentry village in Hoi An.

Once you step into Kim Bong carpentry village in Hoi An, you will observe proficient craftsmen using their hands to craft products that hold great cultural significance and are of high quality. By visiting this village, you will have the chance to gain knowledge about the history of this craft and explore the age-old carpentry workshops.

Thanh Ha pottery village

Thanh Ha Pottery Village is situated approximately 3 km west of Hoi An’s city center, next to the tranquil Thu Bon River.

With a history of over 500 years, Thanh Ha pottery village has witnessed many of the country’s historical ups and downs, and it is an excellent option for those interested in exploring the ancient culture. The main material used to make the unique ceramic products here is clay.

Visitors can observe skilled artisans shaping the clay into exquisite ceramic products. Each stage of the pottery-making process, from shaping the clay on the turntable, painting the decoration, to drying and firing the pottery, can be witnessed.

Tra Que Vegetable village

The process of cultivating green vegetables in Tra Que is done with great attention to detail. The irrigation water used for the vegetables is obtained from a clean ground source and fertilized with seaweed collected from the lagoon. As a result, the vegetables grown here are always lush green.

Beyond enjoying the fresh produce, visitors can also engage in farming activities and take part in an engaging cooking class. A visit to Tra Que will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery and savor the authentic local cuisine.

Bay Mau coconut forest

Bay Mau coconut forest is located about 3 km southeast of the center of Hoi An ancient town. This is a tourist destination in Hoi An that attracts many tourists and is considered as the “Western in the heart of Hoi An”. The local people also refer to the Bay Mau coconut forest as Cam Thanh coconut forest.

This popular ecotourism destination provides visitors with various opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the river, vast coconut forests, and traditional basket boats. A visit to this area will allow you to enjoy a serene atmosphere while cruising in a basket boat through the lush coconut forest, witness the basket dance and boat racing, and indulge in local delicacies.

You can read more: Hoi An Coconut Forest guide: Activities you shouldn’t miss

Hoi An handicraft workshop

The Hoi An craft village, or Hoi An handicraft workshop, can be found in Minh An ward on Nguyen Thai Hoc street. It originated in the 15th to 16th centuries when Hoi An was a bustling trading port, and has since been passed down through many generations.

The craft village continues to operate and preserve 12 traditional crafts such as carpentry, pottery, lantern-making, hat-making, cloth weaving, mat weaving, garment-making, embroidery, woodcarving, lacquerware, knitting and bamboo and rattan weaving.

You can also refer: Hoi An lantern making: A unique family activity

Join our Hoi An tour and witness firsthand the timeless charm of the Ancient Town, the glowing lantern streets, and the serene beauty of its golden beaches

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What to do in Hoi An

From strolling through the Ancient Town and cycling past rice fields to joining a lantern-making workshop or relaxing on An Bang Beach, Hoi An offers plenty of activities to make your trip unforgettable.

Walking the Old Town at night

Witness the beauty of ancient houses and vibrant lantern-lit streets at night, where you may feel disoriented as if you have entered a lively festival of lights that blends the tranquility of old architecture with rural scenery and modern lifestyle. The most captivating area is likely the stretch by the banks of the Hoai River, where the colorful reflections of debris on the water add to the picturesque scenery.

Take a boat and drop lanterns on Hoai River at night

Couples who visit Hoi An, especially for wedding photos, often enjoy taking a boat ride at night to see the Old Town and release lanterns. However, this activity is not limited to couples and can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Tailor-made clothes

In Hoi An, you can get your clothes tailor-made in just four hours. The fashion styles here are trendy and unique, and you can expect to pay a reasonable price ranging from 15 to 100 USD. This makes it a great option for those who are short on time but still want to get some custom-made clothing.

Recommended tailor-made clothes shop in Hoi An:

• Yaly Couture – luxury tailoring, wide fabric selection

• Be Be Tailor – popular for high-quality silk dresses

• A Dong Silk – reliable tailor with fast service

• Kimmy Tailor – well-known for professional service and excellent fit

For more details: Hoi An handicraft shops: Where to buy authentic souvenirs

Relaxing at the beach

Hoi An is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and soft, white sand. Cua Dai Beach is particularly famous for its long stretch of pristine beach, swaying coconut trees, and inviting turquoise waters.

Another must-visit beach in Hoi An is An Bang, which has been recognized as one of the world’s top 50 most beautiful beaches. An Bang Beach is perfect for those who crave a peaceful and serene atmosphere. You can simply enjoy the waves, the sun, and the refreshing sea breeze. It’s a truly unique experience that you shouldn’t miss while in Hoi An.

Snorkeling to see coral in Cham Island

To observe the coral in Cham Island, you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, or coral walking. Cham Island is situated about 15 kilometers away from the Old Town, and the island has preserved its natural state because of the lack of developed tourism services. While visiting, you can take part in various activities like camping, homestay accommodation, and savoring delicious and reasonably priced seafood.

Visit ancient houses

Hoi An has remarkably preserved its ancient houses despite wars, urbanization, and natural disasters. These historical sites remain intact in both architecture and spirit, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past. Some notable places to visit include:

• Tan Ky Ancient House – the first house in Hoi An recognized as a national monument, welcoming many domestic and international heads of state.

• Phung Hung Ancient House – famous for its unique blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural styles.

• Quan Thang Ancient House – known for its nearly 300-year-old architecture and well-preserved interiors.

Play folk games

To experience the vibrant and exciting atmosphere of traditional games such as Bai Choi and Mandarin Square Capturing, visitors can visit the start of Nguyen Thai Hoc Street or Kazik Park. These games have been enjoyed by locals for generations and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

Culinary discovery with the local

You will have the opportunity to participate in a cooking class at a local family’s home that we have selected for you. With the guidance of the hostess, you will learn how to prepare some traditional Vietnamese dishes, which you will then have the pleasure of tasting.

Flash show

In the evening, we invite you to a performance in an establishment in Hoi An. A troupe of artists will offer you a concert of traditional musical instruments, folk dances from the Hoi An region, regional songs and a stage of costumed classical theater.

A unique and breathtaking show! An acrobatic troupe that evolves on giant bamboo, to the rhythm of live tribal music! Something “never seen”, recognized as a cultural heritage by Unesco.

How many days to visit Hoi An?

1 day to discover Hoi An

• Delightful walk in the old town of Hoi An, a former merchant port.

• Discovery of the old port of Hoi An by a short stroll under the last rays of the setting sun before being under the ambient charm of the hundreds of small lanterns which light up at nightfall.

• A unique and breathtaking show! An acrobatic troupe that evolves on giant bamboo, to the rhythm of live tribal music! Something “never seen”, recognized as a cultural heritage by UNESCO.

• Visit the water coconut village of Cam Thanh. With your rower who knows perfectly how to tame Thuyen Thung, you will slide for 30 minutes on the river. In the heart of lush vegetation, to the nonchalant and dancing rhythm of Thuyen Thung, you will experience an adventurous moment!

2 days to discover Hoi An

Day 1: Visit the old town of Hoi An

• Delightful walk in the old town of Hoi An, a former merchant port.

• Discovery of the old port of Hoi An by a short stroll under the last rays of the setting sun before being under the ambient charm of the hundreds of small lanterns which light up at nightfall.

• A unique and breathtaking show! An acrobatic troupe that evolves on giant bamboo, to the rhythm of live tribal music! Something “never seen”, recognized as a cultural heritage by UNESCO.

• Visit the water coconut village of Cam Thanh. With your rower who knows perfectly how to tame Thuyen Thung, you will slide for 30 minutes on the river. In the heart of lush vegetation, to the nonchalant and dancing rhythm of Thuyen Thung, you will experience an adventurous moment!

Day 2: Visit of My Son

• My Son, former religious capital of the Chams. My Son has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

• Departure for My Son, former religious capital of the Indianized Chams until the 12th century, and visit of the Cham archaeological site, of Hindu and Buddhist influence. Only a few remains have stood the test of time, but the site is of great beauty.

• In the afternoon, free time to enjoy the beach of Hoi An.

Beyond our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

When to go to Hoi An?

Hoi An is located in Central Vietnam, where the climate is generally milder than in the north and the average temperature is around 29° all year round.

Hoi An has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

• The rainy and typhoon season, from September to December. During this season, October and November are to be avoided because they are the rainiest months. Floods can affect the city.

• The dry season, from January to May. It is therefore the best season to go to Hoi An. The rains are sparse and not abundant.

You can read more: Hoi An weather: When is the best time to visit?

Travel diary to “Get well prepared” for the trip to Vietnam?

Remember to take some precautions before the departure of the trip to Vietnam

• Scan the necessary information and save it to your mailbox. This precaution will be very useful in the event of loss or theft.

• You will need to complete an internship in addition to presenting your international driving license if you want to drive a scooter, motorcycle or car.

• Scan your international driving license and save it to your email. This precaution will be very useful in the event of loss or theft.

• Check the validity date of your passport: it must be valid for at least 6 months before the date of your departure. If the validity date is less than 6 months before your departure, you will have to renew it.

• Provide photocopies of your passport or scan your passport and save it to your mailbox. This precaution will be very useful in case of loss or theft of your passport.

• Notify your bank of your trip in order to avoid blocking your account following an activity in a foreign country which could seem suspicious.

• Plan to have on you the list of people (with contact details) to notify in case of a problem.

• Plan to carry with you all the medical recommendations and prescriptions that are very important for your health.

• Provide a list of telephone numbers and emergency numbers (embassy, ​​consulate, airlines, banks, insurance, etc.)

Where to stay in Hoi An?

Hoi An has no shortage of family-friendly places to stay - whether you’re looking for affordable guesthouses, charming boutique hotels, or upscale beachfront resorts. Depending on your budget and travel style, here are the best options for a memorable family getaway in Hoi An.

Budget hotels in Hoi An

Wondering where to stay in Hoi An on a budget? The town offers plenty of affordable hotels that are clean, comfortable, and centrally located. These budget-friendly stays are ideal for families who want to enjoy a memorable Hoi An trip without overspending.

Recommended hotels in Hoi An for budget travelers

Little Hoi An - A Boutique Hotel & Spa Enjoys a prime location just steps from the Thu Bon River and a short walk to Hoi An Ancient Town, offering guests elegant rooms, a relaxing spa, and warm hospitality for a truly convenient and memorable stay.	Senvila Boutique Hoi An Resort & Spa Set in a peaceful location just a few minutes’ drive from Hoi An Ancient Town, featuring spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and rejuvenating spa services—perfect for a relaxing yet convenient getaway.

Mid-range hotels in Hoi An

For travelers looking to strike the perfect balance between comfort and value, Hoi An’s mid-range hotels are an excellent option. With well-appointed rooms, refreshing pools, and thoughtful services, these stays provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience without stretching your budget.

Recommended hotels in Hoi An for mid-range budget travelers

Lantana Boutique Hoian Hotel Boasts a central riverside location near the Ancient Town, with stylish rooms, a pool, and attentive service for a comfortable stay	Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort Offers a charming riverside setting just a short walk from the Ancient Town, with comfortable rooms, a relaxing pool, and friendly service	Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort  Sits along Cua Dai Beach, just a short drive from the Ancient Town with elegant rooms, a beachfront pool, and a range of leisure facilities

Luxury hotels in Hoi An

For a truly indulgent stay, Hoi An’s luxury hotels and resorts are the perfect choice. With elegant rooms, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, these properties offer the ultimate space and comfort for guests to relax and unwind in style

Recommended hotels in Hoi An for luxury travelers

Four Seasons Resort Renowned as one of Vietnam’s finest resorts, it features private pool villas, a world-class spa, and a beachfront location, making it the ultimate escape near Hoi An.	Anantara Hoi An Resort Sits on the banks of the Thu Bon River, just a short stroll from the Ancient Town, offering elegant suites, riverside dining, and a tranquil atmosphere	Almanity Hoi An  Located within walking distance of the Ancient Town, featuring contemporary rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a signature wellness center for a rejuvenating stay.

For more options: Top 9 best hotels in Hoi An for your Vietnam trip

Choose Hanoi Voyages for a seamless and personalized travel experience crafted by experts dedicated to exceeding your expectations. From tailored itineraries to enriching cultural experiences, we ensure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on exploring Hội An’s ancient streets, lantern-lit nights and unique blend of history and charm. This season, uncover the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where culture, architecture and cuisine create an unforgettable destination.

Book your unforgettable journey to Hoi An with Hanoi Voyages today!