Hoi An, Vietnam is a captivating town where time seems to slow down among its ancient streets and riverside scenery. Known for its remarkably preserved UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, Hoi An draws travelers with vibrant lanterns, centuries-old architecture, and a uniquely mellow atmosphere. The city's golden-yellow walls, narrow alleyways, and decorative shopfronts offer a distinct charm that stands apart from Vietnam’s larger urban centers.
One of the main attractions is simply wandering the Old Town, where every turn reveals ornate Chinese temples, French colonial houses, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. Cycling to An Bang Beach lets you switch between city and seaside relaxation, while riding a boat on the Thu Bon River gives a tranquil perspective of daily life. Popular experiences include joining a lantern-making workshop, taking a Vietnamese cooking class, and exploring the bustling night markets with their endless local snacks.
Hoi An is known for its lively cultural traditions. Visitors will notice tailor shops everywhere—this is the spot for bespoke clothing, made swiftly and affordably. The town comes to life at sunset, when glowing lanterns are released onto the river and live folk music fills the air. While touristy at times, the pace here is laid-back; you’ll see locals cycling to markets, fisherman casting nets, and families gathered by the water. The fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences creates a rich tapestry in both the food and local festivals.
Most attractions are within walking or cycling distance, and the town is bicycle-friendly with minimal traffic in the Old Town itself. Accommodation ranges from chic riverside boutiques to family-run homestays, and sampling the local dishes—like cao lau or white rose dumplings—is a must. Street food is everywhere, but you’ll also find hidden cafes and stylish dining options along the river.
The best times to visit are from February to May, when the weather is warm and less humid, and lantern festivals light up the town during the monthly full moon. Summers can bring heavy rains and brief flooding but fewer crowds. Don’t skip an evening stroll along the riverside—it’s when Hoi An’s magic truly shines.
One of the main attractions is simply wandering the Old Town, where every turn reveals ornate Chinese temples, French colonial houses, and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. Cycling to An Bang Beach lets you switch between city and seaside relaxation, while riding a boat on the Thu Bon River gives a tranquil perspective of daily life. Popular experiences include joining a lantern-making workshop, taking a Vietnamese cooking class, and exploring the bustling night markets with their endless local snacks.
Hoi An is known for its lively cultural traditions. Visitors will notice tailor shops everywhere—this is the spot for bespoke clothing, made swiftly and affordably. The town comes to life at sunset, when glowing lanterns are released onto the river and live folk music fills the air. While touristy at times, the pace here is laid-back; you’ll see locals cycling to markets, fisherman casting nets, and families gathered by the water. The fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences creates a rich tapestry in both the food and local festivals.
Most attractions are within walking or cycling distance, and the town is bicycle-friendly with minimal traffic in the Old Town itself. Accommodation ranges from chic riverside boutiques to family-run homestays, and sampling the local dishes—like cao lau or white rose dumplings—is a must. Street food is everywhere, but you’ll also find hidden cafes and stylish dining options along the river.
The best times to visit are from February to May, when the weather is warm and less humid, and lantern festivals light up the town during the monthly full moon. Summers can bring heavy rains and brief flooding but fewer crowds. Don’t skip an evening stroll along the riverside—it’s when Hoi An’s magic truly shines.
Expected Weekly Budget
$800–$1200 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Stroll through the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town
- Take a Vietnamese cooking class with a local chef
- Cycle to An Bang Beach and relax by the sea
- Enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River at sunset
- Shop for tailor-made clothes at local tailor shops
- Visit the night markets and sample street food
- Experience the monthly Lantern Festival
- Learn traditional crafts like lantern-making
Notable Sites
- Japanese Covered Bridge
- Hoi An Ancient Town
- Quan Cong Temple
- Fukian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall
- An Bang Beach
- Thu Bon River
- Hoi An Central Market
- Museum of Trade Ceramics
General Advice
Spend at least two to three days in Hoi An to appreciate both its historic center and nearby countryside. Walking and cycling are the best ways to explore, as much of the Old Town is pedestrian-friendly. Plan some time to enjoy both the riverside culture and a day at the beach. Local markets and tailors are part of the experience, so don’t hesitate to approach with curiosity. Be sure to savor traditional dishes at street stalls or restaurants, as food is central to Hoi An’s identity.
Security & Safety
Hoi An is generally safe, but be cautious of petty theft in crowded areas or at night markets. Keep your bags zipped and don’t leave belongings unattended on the beach. At busy intersections or market areas, watch out for scooters and bikes. If using bicycles or motorbikes, lock them up securely when unattended. Choose reputable tailors and restaurants, and agree on prices in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
Travel Tips
- Rent a bicycle for easy and enjoyable transportation.
- Try local specialties like cao lau, banh mi, and white rose dumplings.
- Visit tailor shops early in your stay to allow time for fittings.
- Wear light, breathable clothing, especially in the humid months.
- Bring cash, as many small vendors do not accept cards.
- Plan visits to attractions early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
- Respect local customs when entering temples (cover shoulders and knees).
- Book accommodations in or near Old Town for the most convenient access.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in March 2024
Hoi An was a highlight of my Vietnam trip. I loved strolling the lantern-filled streets at night and eating at little street-side cafes. My custom dress from one of the tailors turned out beautifully. Only wish the Old Town was a bit less busy in the evenings.
Traveled here in February 2024
Everything about Hoi An felt magical—the riverside vibes, warm lighting, and the food! My wife and I took a cooking class that became the best memory of our trip. Highly recommend renting bikes to reach An Bang Beach for a relaxing afternoon.
Visited in July 2023
I came during rainy season, and it did flood a bit, but the atmosphere was cozy. Kids enjoyed making lanterns and feeding fish by the Japanese Bridge. Some of the restaurants are overpriced for tourists, but you can still find delicious, cheap eats.
Visited in May 2024
We stayed at a lovely riverside homestay just outside the Old Town. The markets are colorful, and the pace was so relaxing. Beware of street vendors aggressively pushing souvenirs, though—it got a little annoying.
Stayed in November 2023
Absolutely loved Hoi An for its history and charm. Watching the lantern festival by the river was unforgettable, and our kids were wide-eyed all night. Found some amazing vegetarian food too. Would go back in a heartbeat!
Visited in December 2023
Wonderful spot for culture enthusiasts. Tried my first cao lau here and I still crave it sometimes. Wished the weather was sunnier during my stay, but even in the drizzle the Old Town looked picturesque. Easy to walk everywhere.
Traveled here in April 2023
Hoi An is nice, but I found the Old Town a touch too touristy. Still, the architecture and lanterns made for great photos. Tip: Get clothes tailored early since quick turnarounds can be rushed. The beach area was less crowded and a good retreat.
Visited in January 2024
Loved biking through rice paddies just outside the city. The atmosphere in the evening is beautiful, especially with all the glowing lanterns on the water. Some areas get really packed, so mornings are more peaceful for sightseeing.
Visited in October 2023
I came alone and met friendly travelers over street food dinners. Hoi An is easy to explore solo, and very safe. Don’t miss the Museum of Trade Ceramics for some quiet history—and the pastries at the French bakeries were a surprise treat.
Traveled here in May 2024
We visited during the lantern festival and the whole town felt like a fairytale. Shopping for silk scarves at the market was exciting, though bargaining takes practice. The sunsets by the Thu Bon River are just gorgeous.
Stayed in June 2023
Good mix of beach and culture. Renting a scooter to get around was handy, but traffic can be intimidating if you’re not used to it. Found an amazing coffee shop near the market where we hung out most afternoons.
Visited in February 2024
Our teen kids loved the energy of the night market and sampling new foods. Lantern-making was a fun, interactive activity for all ages. We stayed in Old Town so we could easily walk everywhere—we hardly needed a taxi.
Traveled here in August 2023
Nice place albeit crowded in summer. The food scene is absolutely next-level—try the white rose dumplings! We dodged most of the guided tour groups by starting our days early.
Stayed in March 2024
Hoi An is super photogenic. My partner and I took hundreds of pictures of the lantern-lit streets. Tailor shops everywhere—my partner got a suit that was finished in less than 48 hours. Be patient with the heat in the afternoons.
Visited in September 2023
As a local, I brought friends from abroad to Hoi An, and they loved the peaceful mornings by the river and street-side cafes. Nighttime can get noisy, but the festive mood is worth it. The architecture is a history lesson in itself.
Traveled here in October 2023
I appreciated how walkable the Old Town was, and the boat tour was a highlight. Some streets are packed with selfie-takers, but it doesn’t take much to find quieter corners. Food was delicious everywhere we ate.
Visited in December 2023
Great family destination with plenty to do for kids and adults. People are friendly and helpful, especially if you try a bit of Vietnamese. Just prepare for unpredictable weather in December—bring a raincoat.
Traveled here in March 2024
I joined a small group cooking class—it turned out to be the best meal of my whole trip! Cycling through the countryside was peaceful and the green fields went on forever. Do budget for a little splurging at the night market.
Stayed in June 2023
Nice place with great food, but I found the heat and humidity tough. Old Town is packed midday, but in the mornings it was much more pleasant. The Japanese Bridge is interesting but gets very crowded with tours.
Visited in January 2024
Perfect destination for a romantic trip—my husband and I loved the evening boat ride and candle-lit dinners by the river. The little cafes tucked down alleys are great for relaxing with a book. Lantern festival is a must if you can catch it.
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