Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in central Vietnam, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, this riverside city serves as a living museum, showcasing a harmonious mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences. Visitors are enchanted by its lantern-lit streets, vibrant markets, and historic buildings, including iconic spots like the Japanese Covered Bridge and old merchant houses. Hoi An is also famous for its tailored clothing shops and delectable local cuisine-don’t miss the Cao Lau noodles or Banh Mi-along with picturesque beaches like An Bang. Whether you’re strolling through the narrow alleys, taking a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, or participating in a traditional lantern festival, Hoi An offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Hoi An Attractive Places
Top Must-Do Experiences in Hoi An – A Journey of Culture and Adventure
Discover the Ancient Town of Hoi An: Step back in time as you stroll through Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its charming architecture, colorful lanterns, and historic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. By night, the town comes alive with glowing lanterns and a vibrant atmosphere.
Basket Boat Tour at Bay Mau Coconut Forest: For a unique adventure, take a basket boat ride through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Explore lush mangroves while learning about the local fishing lifestyle. You’ll also be entertained by skillful boat performances and even try your hand at casting fishing nets.
Make Your Own Hoi An Lantern: Experience Hoi An’s famous lantern tradition by crafting your own! Join a hands-on workshop where skilled artisans guide you through creating a colorful lantern—a perfect souvenir of your visit and a chance to learn this timeless craft.
Cycle Through the Countryside: Escape the hustle and bustle of town with a cycling trip through Hoi An’s picturesque countryside. Ride past rice paddies, water buffalo, and small villages to get a glimpse of rural Vietnamese life. The peaceful landscapes and friendly locals make this an unforgettable experience.
Cooking at Tra Que Vegetable Village: Dive into Vietnamese culinary culture with a cooking class at Tra Que Vegetable Village. Begin by harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables, then learn to prepare authentic Hoi An dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. Savor your creations for an immersive farm-to-table experience.
Thanh Ha Pottery & Kim Bong Carpentry Villages: Explore the artistic traditions of Hoi An at Thanh Ha Pottery and Kim Bong Carpentry Villages. Watch master artisans create stunning ceramics, woodwork, and handicrafts. Participate in pottery-making or admire the intricate designs of wooden sculptures and traditional boats.
Explore Hoi An Beaches: Don’t miss the chance to relax at An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach. These serene spots offer beautiful sandy shores and stunning ocean views, making them perfect for sunbathing or enjoying fresh seafood at local beachside restaurants.
Culinary Experience in Hoi An
One of the highlights of visiting Hoi An is indulging in its rich culinary offerings. The city is renowned for its unique dishes that reflect its cultural heritage.
Cao Lầu (Pork Rice Noodles)
Cao Lầu is a signature dish of Hoi An, known for its chewy rice noodles, tender slices of marinated pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons. The noodles have a unique texture, made using water drawn from ancient wells in Hoi An, which gives them a distinct flavor.
Recommended Places to Try Cao Lầu in Hoi An:
- Quán Ông Hai: 6A Trương Minh Lượng, Hoi An – A local favorite with authentic flavors.
- Quán Dì Hát: 81 Phan Chu Trinh, Hoi An – Known for its generous portions.
- Cao Lầu Thanh: 26 Thái Phiên, Hoi An – Perfect for first-time visitors.
- Cao Lầu Hồng: 18 Thái Phiên, Hoi An – Famous for its rich broth and fresh ingredients.
Mì Quảng (Quang Noodles)
Mì Quảng is a versatile dish originating from central Vietnam. The flat rice noodles are served with a small amount of flavorful broth, topped with pork, chicken, shrimp, or even frog. It’s garnished with fresh herbs, roasted peanuts, and crispy rice crackers for added texture.
Top Spots to Enjoy Mì Quảng in Hoi An:
- Mì Quảng Bà Minh: Cẩm Hà, Hoi An – Renowned for its authentic countryside flavors.
- Không Gian Xanh Hoi An: 687 Hai Bà Trưng, Hoi An – A peaceful setting to enjoy a hearty bowl.
- Mì Quảng Cô Sinh: 170/5 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hoi An – Famous for its fresh ingredients and homemade broth.
Bánh Xèo (Savoury Vietnamese Pancake)
Bánh Xèo is a crispy, savory pancake made with rice flour and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Wrap a slice of it in rice paper with fresh herbs and dip it into a tangy, flavorful sauce for the perfect bite.
Great Places to Try Bánh Xèo in Hoi An:
- 45/51 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoi An – A hidden gem with delicious, crispy pancakes.
- 409 Hai Bà Trưng, Cẩm Sơn, Hoi An – A local favorite with authentic recipes.
Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
Hoi An’s Bánh Mì is a culinary icon. This crispy baguette is stuffed with a mix of savory meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
Must-Try Spot for Bánh Mì in Hoi An:
- Bánh Mì Phượng: 2b Phan Chu Trinh, Cẩm Châu, Hoi An – Famous worldwide and even endorsed by celebrity chefs.
Cơm Gà (Hội An Chicken Rice)
Cơm Gà is a comforting dish of fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, served with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a tangy sauce. It’s simple yet bursting with flavor.
Best Places to Enjoy Cơm Gà in Hoi An:
- Cơm Gà Bà Buội: 22 Phan Châu Trinh, Hoi An – A legendary spot with decades of tradition.
- Cơm Gà Bà Nga: 08 Phan Châu Trinh, Hoi An – Known for its juicy, tender chicken.
Hoi An Weather
When planning your trip to Hoi An, it’s essential to consider the weather. Expect rainy days and several storms from October to January. If you arrive at the start of the year, bring a few extra layers to stay warm. March to May are the best months to visit, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. You can also explore Hoi An from June to August if you don’t mind the heat.
Hoi An Transportation
Arriving from Da Nang City
The international airport in Da Nang is a mere 50-minute drive from the Ancient Town of Hoi An. There are numerous domestic flights from Vietnam’s major cities to Da Nang, as well as direct flights from regional hubs, making it easy to reach this enchanting destination.
Diverse Means of Transportation
Because Hoi An is a famous tourist destination, the traffic here is very developed. You can easily use various means of transportation, including:
- Buses: Affordable and convenient for traveling around the city.
- Bikes: A popular choice for tourists looking to explore the countryside.
- Cars: Ideal for group travel or those seeking comfort.
- Taxis/Grab: Ride-hailing services that provide an easy way to get around.
Where to Stay in Hoi An
Finding accommodation in Hoi An is a breeze, with options ranging from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some recommendations:
- Citadines Pearl Hoi An: This modern hotel offers a blend of comfort and convenience, perfect for families or solo travelers looking for a luxurious stay.
- Allegro Hoi An: Known for its stunning decor and excellent service, Allegro is an ideal spot for travelers seeking a charming atmosphere.
- Vinpearl Nam Hội An: This resort combines relaxation with adventure.
