Published on December 14, 2023 · Written by Zack Fenech
An important Southeast Asian trading port and home to one of the greatest festivals I’ve ever visited, Hoi An is a charming and picturesque town that places itself among one of the best cities in Vietnam we managed to visit.
Located in Central Vietnam, only a 45-minute drive south from Da Nang, the quaint town of Hoi An sits in Quang Nam province and is rich with Chinese and Japanese influence from its history as a port city and trading post.
We spent two full days in Hoi An, and it was easily one of the most beautiful towns I visited in Vietnam. Certainly, it’s a little more geared towards tourists – but rest assured, Hoi An is a must-see for travellers who want to experience the uniqueness of Southeast Asia.
Important Things to Know Before Visiting Hoi An
- Getting There: Fly into Da Nang and take a taxi or bus to Hoi An (approx. 300,000 VND by taxi). Use Skyscanner to find the best flights.
- Weather: February through August is the dry season; September to January is rainy season. September is hot by day and cooler at night.
- Hoi An Lantern Festival: Held every month on the full moon. The town fills with lanterns, markets, and street vendors. Plan your trip around it if you can.
- Bargaining: Haggling is expected at markets and clothing stores. Aim for at least half the asking price – sellers expect it.
- Transportation: Hoi An is walkable. Many hotels offer bike or scooter rentals, sometimes free. Take care cycling on the road.
- Tailored Clothing: Hoi An is famous for bespoke clothing. Suits, dresses, shirts – get fitted on arrival so there’s time for alterations.
- Travel Insurance: Be sure to get travel insurance before your trip to cover any unexpected emergencies.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Hoi An
1. The Hoi An Lantern Festival
The monthly Lantern Festival transforms Ancient Town into a glowing, bustling celebration. Hundreds of lantern-lit boats float along the Thu Bon River, vendors line the streets, and the whole town comes to life. One of the most memorable experiences of our entire Vietnam trip.
2. Hoi An Ancient Town
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the centrepiece of any visit to Hoi An. Pedestrian-only streets, a beautiful mix of Chinese, Japanese, and French architecture, evening lanterns, incense, and a genuine old-world atmosphere. Don’t miss Tran Phu Street. Consider booking a guided tour to learn about the town’s rich history.
3. Chùa Cầu (Japanese Covered Bridge)
Built by Japanese merchants in the 16th century and still standing today. An iconic symbol of Hoi An and a beautiful example of the town’s layered cultural history.
4. The Old House of Tan Ky
A beautifully preserved merchant’s house in Old Town, over two hundred years old. A great window into the trading history that made Hoi An what it is.
5. An Bang Beach
A white-sand beach about 15 minutes from Hoi An town. Laid-back, relatively uncrowded compared to Da Nang, and perfect for a half-day break from the Ancient Town bustle.
6. Tailored Suits and Clothing
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is packed with tailors making bespoke clothing – suits, dresses, shirts, jackets. I had a full suit made (jacket, pants, linen shirt) for around $200 USD. Show up on day one so there’s time for fittings and alterations before you leave.
You can book hotels in Hoi An to find the best deals on accommodation for your stay.
Food and Drink to Try in Hoi An
White Rose Dumplings
Delicate, translucent shrimp dumplings served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. A Hoi An speciality you won’t find elsewhere in Vietnam. The restaurant White Rose also serves “Hoi An Pizza” – a tomato roulade topped with shrimp. Try both.
Cao Lau
A Hoi An-specific noodle dish featuring thick noodles, pork, fresh herbs, and crunchy croutons. The noodles are traditionally made with water from a specific local well, which is why you can’t really get it anywhere else.
Banh Mi
Some of the best banh mi of our entire Vietnam trip came from Hoi An. Street stalls and small shops serving them loaded with pork, herbs, pate, and chilli sauce are everywhere.
Banh Xeo
A Vietnamese sizzling pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Wrap pieces in rice paper with herbs, then dip in a tangy sauce. An interactive and delicious dish.
Final Thoughts
Hoi An is one of those places that sticks with you. The Lantern Festival, the Ancient Town, the food, the tailoring – it all adds up to one of the most distinct and memorable stops on any Vietnam itinerary. Spend at least two full days here.
FAQs About Hoi An
Is Hoi An safe? Yes. Hoi An is a very safe destination. Be alert crossing the road and watch for scooters in pedestrian areas.
When is the best time to visit Hoi An? February to April is ideal – dry season, lower chance of heavy rain, and comfortable temperatures.
What are the must-see attractions? Ancient Town and the Japanese Covered Bridge. Add the Lantern Festival if your dates align.