Hoi An Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Where to Stay & What to Eat
Nestled on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a charming blend of history, culture, and beauty, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in Southeast Asia.
Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, stunning lantern-lit streets, and rich culinary heritage, Hoi An offers a unique experience for travelers. Whether you're a history buff, food lover, or someone looking to relax by the beach, this Hoi An travel guide will help you plan the perfect trip.
Why Visit Hoi An?
Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its historical significance, where ancient architecture and traditional culture come together. Unlike bustling cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An offers a slower pace of life, where visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets, explore colorful markets, and dine in cozy riverside restaurants. From its iconic lanterns to its thriving arts and crafts scene, Hoi An has something to offer everyone.Read more: Hoi An History Through the Ages: From a Bustling Port to a World Heritage Site
Best Time to Visit Hoi An
The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April when the weather is warm and dry. During these months, you can expect pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring the town on foot or by bike. The months from May to August are hotter and more humid, with occasional rain showers, while September to January sees cooler weather, though it is also the rainy season, so you may encounter some downpours.Read more: Hoi An Weather: A Guide to the Best Time to Visit
Top Things to Do in Hoi An
Explore the Ancient Town
The heart of Hoi An is its Ancient Town, where narrow streets are lined with centuries-old buildings, colorful shops, and traditional wooden houses. This pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for wandering, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing the town’s atmosphere. Highlights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Old House of Tan Ky, and the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.Visit the Hoi An Lantern Festival
Held every full moon, the Hoi An Lantern Festival is a magical event that transforms the town into a glowing wonderland. Streets are illuminated by hundreds of colorful lanterns, and locals celebrate with traditional music, dance, and performances. Visitors can also release their own lanterns on the river, making it a beautiful and memorable experience.Take a Cooking Class
No visit to Hoi An is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and what better way to do so than by taking a cooking class? Several restaurants and cooking schools offer classes where you can learn how to make classic dishes like cao lau (noodles with pork and herbs) and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches). Afterward, you'll get to enjoy your creations!Cycle to the Countryside
Hoi An’s countryside is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty. Rent a bike and explore the rice paddies, traditional villages, and tranquil waterways that surround the town. You can also visit Tra Que Village, famous for its organic herbs and vegetables, or the nearby beaches for a relaxing day by the sea.Relax at An Bang Beach
An Bang Beach, just a short bike ride from Hoi An’s Ancient Town, offers a peaceful retreat with soft golden sand and clear blue waters. This less crowded beach is perfect for swimming, lounging under an umbrella, or enjoying fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.Read more: Prices in Hoi An - Things to know when traveling to Central Vietnam
Where to Stay in Hoi An
Hoi An offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Whether you prefer staying in the heart of the Ancient Town or closer to the beach, there’s something for every type of traveler.- Luxury: For a luxurious stay, check out the Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai or Anantara Hoi An Resort, both offering top-notch amenities and stunning views.
- Mid-range: If you’re looking for something in between, consider the Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa or Hoi An Silk Marina Resort & Spa.
- Budget: For those on a budget, guesthouses like Green Garden Homestay or Hoi An Backpackers Hostel provide affordable and comfortable stays.
Read more: Safe Travel Tips When Visiting Hoi An: Things to Know for a Perfect Trip
What to Eat in Hoi An
Hoi An is famous for its food, with flavors that reflect its history as a trading port. Be sure to try the following dishes:- Cao Lau (Cao Lầu): A local noodle dish made with thick noodles, pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons. It’s a must-try in Hoi An, and you’ll find it at many street-side stalls and restaurants. Read more: Cao Lau Hoi An – The culinary essence of the ancient town
- Banh Mi (Bánh Mì): Vietnam’s famous sandwich, made with a crispy baguette filled with meats, vegetables, and sauces. Hoi An is known for having some of the best banh mi in the country. Read more: Hoi An Ancient Town Bread - A popular and flavorful dish
- Hoi An Pho (Phở Hội An) - Pho Hoi An offers a distinct variation of the famous Vietnamese pho, differentiated by a blend of ingredients and spices from the Quang Nam countryside and local culture. Read more: Pho Hoi An - Rich flavor in the heart of the ancient town
- Mi Quang Hoi An (Mì Quảng): Mi Quang is a beloved noodle dish hailing from the central region of Vietnam, particularly Hoi An. Known for its unique combination of fresh herbs, rice noodles, and savory broth, this dish is a must-try for food lovers. Read more: Hoi An Quang Noodles – Rich Flavors of Heritage Land
- White Rose Dumplings (Bánh hoa hồng trắng): These delicate dumplings are made with shrimp or pork and served in a light, savory broth. They’re a specialty of Hoi An and can be found at many local eateries.
- Vietnamese Coffee: Don’t miss trying Vietnam’s famous coffee, especially ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk). You’ll find cozy cafes throughout Hoi An where you can enjoy a relaxing break.