1. General Introduction to Hoi An
1.1. Location and Reasons Why Hoi An is a Must-Visit Destination
Located in Minh An ward, Hoi An city, about 30 km from Da Nang airport. Based on Hoi An travel experience, it is recommended to start exploring from the unique values of the ancient town. This place impresses with the harmonious blend of Vietnamese – Japanese – Chinese architecture and culture, creating a rare ancient appearance throughout history.
The Hoai River winds through the heart of the ancient town like a soft silk ribbon, connecting Hoi An with many famous traditional craft villages such as Tra Que vegetable village and Kim Bong carpentry village. Just a short distance away, visitors can reach clear blue beaches like An Bang and Cua Dai. It is this harmonious combination of cultural heritage, nature, and modern life that has made Hoi An an attractive destination, suitable for many types of tourists.
Based on Hoi An travel experience, you should start exploring from the unique values of the ancient town. (Source: Collected)
1.2. Special features of Hoi An's climate and history
Hoi An is located in a tropical monsoon climate, with each season of the year bringing different characteristics. From February to August is the dry season, with light sunshine and little rain, very suitable for exploration. Conversely, the rainy season lasts from September to January, with drizzling rains covering the tiled roofs, making the ancient town appear dreamy and poetic.
Having gone through a prosperous trading port period from the 16th to the 17th century, Hoi An preserves many unique cultural imprints. The Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of the first lunar month and on every full moon, has become a vibrant symbol of the ancient town. Thousands of shimmering lanterns light up the streets, creating a scene like a fairy tale.
2. Ideal time to experience Hoi An
2.1. When is the best month to visit Hoi An?
The period from February to August is chosen by many tourists because of the dry weather and beautiful sunshine, which are very convenient for exploring and participating in lantern festivals and other unique cultural activities. The temperature is around 20-30 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable feeling when strolling through the small streets.
From September to January, light rain is spread evenly, and the romantic atmosphere is very suitable for those who love the poetic beauty of the ancient town. You should prepare a raincoat and choose appropriate times of the day for travel. A useful Hoi An travel tip is to start early in the morning before 8 AM to avoid the harsh sun and enjoy the cool air.
2.2. Unique festivals and events in Hoi An
The most prominent event of the year is the Lantern Festival, held regularly on the lunar full moon and grandly on the 14th day of the first lunar month. At that time, the entire ancient town turns off electric lights, and traditional candles and lanterns create a shimmering and impressive space.
The live show "Hoi An Memories" at Hoi An Impression Park is a large-scale program, recreating 400 years of the ancient town's history using modern lighting technology. Ticket prices for the show range from 500,000 to 1,200,000 VND depending on the seat location, which is very suitable for families who want to learn more about the local culture.
The most outstanding event of the year is the Lantern Festival, held regularly on the lunar full moon and grandly on the 14th day of the 1st lunar month. (Source: Collected)
3. Getting to and Around Hoi An
3.1. Traveling from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Major Provinces to Hoi An
Da Nang Airport serves as the main transit point to Hoi An, with continuous flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Round-trip flight tickets cost around 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 VND depending on the time. Upon landing, you can choose a taxi (priced around 350,000-450,000 VND) or bus number 01 for 20,000 VND to save money.
Alternatively, the Grab app offers flexible transportation services with prices around 300,000-400,000 VND for a 30 km journey. The travel time is about 45 minutes, allowing you to relax and enjoy the Central Vietnamese countryside scenery. Some hotels and resorts also arrange airport shuttle services at reasonable prices.
3.2. Tips for Getting Around Hoi An
Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town on foot is an ideal choice, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is pleasant. The small, ancient streets allow you to slowly admire every nook and cranny, fully experiencing the local life and architecture.
Renting a bicycle for 30,000-50,000 VND/day is perfect for traveling to nearby craft villages. For more flexibility, you can rent a motorbike for 80,000-120,000 VND/day to explore further destinations like Cua Dai Beach or Bay Mau Coconut Forest. An unforgettable experience is taking a boat trip on the Hoai River in the evening, costing 50,000-80,000 VND/person, to float and admire the shimmering lantern light reflected on the water.
4. Accommodation Tips for Hoi An
4.1. Popular Accommodation Areas
Staying within the Ancient Town area is ideal for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the unique cultural atmosphere. The location is convenient for accessing prominent attractions like the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Hoai River, or famous cafes. However, room prices here are usually higher, and the Ancient Town can be quite bustling in the evenings.
If you prefer a spacious, quiet environment or are traveling with young children, the areas near An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are suitable choices. Resorts and hotels in these areas often have swimming pools, play areas, and spa services. The distance from the beach to the Ancient Town is only about 3-5 km, easily accessible by bicycle or motorbike.
4.2. Recommended Homestays, Resorts, and Quality Hotels
Hoi An offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to the diverse needs of tourists for relaxation and sightseeing. Homestays and boutique hotels are mainly concentrated around the Ancient Town area, featuring designs that harmoniously blend traditional architecture with modern amenities. Thanks to their convenient locations, guests can easily walk to prominent attractions while enjoying a quiet and cozy atmosphere, suitable for couples or groups of friends who value convenience.
If you prioritize a resort experience combined with entertainment, the area near VinWonders Nam Hoi An is an ideal choice, with many large-scale resorts and hotels offering a variety of facilities and all-inclusive services. These types of accommodations are suitable for families with young children or tourists who want to enjoy a comfortable vacation with minimal travel. To optimize your experience, it is advisable to book your room in advance or choose packages with additional services to make your trip more complete and convenient.
5. Must-Visit Attractions in Hoi An
5.1. Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town boasts countless attractive check-in spots with its small alleys, ancient yellow-painted houses, and a nostalgic atmosphere. Simply strolling around the town, visitors can take photos while learning about the local culture and way of life.
During your visit, you can combine exploring typical historical sites, participating in cultural activities, folk games, and visiting the night market when the town lights up. In the evening, the experience of taking a boat on the Hoai River, releasing paper lanterns, admiring the shimmering Ancient Town, and enjoying artistic performances are unmissable highlights in Hoi An.
Hoi An Ancient Town offers countless attractive check-in spots with small alleys, ancient houses painted yellow, and a nostalgic atmosphere. (Source: Collected)
5.2. An Bang Beach, Cua Dai
An Bang Beach is honored in the list of 25 most beautiful beaches in Asia with clear blue waters and fine white sand. It is 5 km from the ancient town, very convenient for cycling along the beach. Here, there are many seafood stalls serving dishes like grilled shrimp, salt-roasted crab, etc.
Cua Dai Beach is located near high-end resorts, suitable for those who love convenient services. The ideal time for swimming is early morning from 6-8 AM or late afternoon from 4-6 PM. Sports activities such as snorkeling and kayaking cost from 200,000-400,000 VND/person.
5.3. Cham Island: A Journey to Discover the Green Island
Cham Island is a world biosphere reserve recognized by UNESCO, located 15 km by water from Hoi An. Day tours include transportation, lunch, and activities for 650,000-850,000 VND/adult. Snorkeling at Bai Chong takes you into a diverse marine life world.
On the island, there are 8 traditional fishing villages along with specialties such as lobster, top shell, and seaweed. If traveling with young children, choose a gentle tour, prioritizing swimming and sightseeing rather than deep diving. Don't forget to prepare sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and swimwear to protect your health.
Cham Island is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, located 15 km by water from Hoi An. (Source: Collected)
5.4. Traditional Craft Villages
Tra Que Vegetable Village is famous for its technique of growing vegetables using river mud and seaweed, yielding clean vegetables with a distinctive aroma. Visitors can try their hand at being a farmer for 2-3 hours, planting, watering, and harvesting vegetables themselves, ending with a lunch of fresh dishes.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village is a place that preserves traditional handicraft with a history of hundreds of years. Visitors can observe each stage of woodworking and can try carving simple patterns themselves. Hanging basket boats in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest is also an interesting activity.
5.5. Sun World Ba Na Hills
Although about 60 km from Hoi An, Sun World Ba Na Hills remains a preferred destination for many tourists thanks to its cool climate year-round. Among its attractions are the iconic Golden Bridge and a French village atmosphere that feels like stepping out of Europe. The entrance ticket includes the world's most impressive cable car experience and the Fantasy Park indoor amusement area, suitable for both adults and children.
To save time, visitors can opt for a combo tour from Hoi An to Ba Na Hills, including transportation, entrance tickets, and a convenient buffet lunch. An ideal itinerary should last a full day to comfortably take photos at the Golden Bridge, visit the Le Jardin D’Amour flower gardens, enjoy spectacular art shows, and try thrilling games. This is a perfect choice to refresh your Hoi An trip with an experience that is both relaxing and vibrant.
Although about 60 km from Hoi An, Sun World Ba Na Hills remains a preferred destination for many tourists thanks to its cool climate year-round.
5.6. Other attractions
Bay Mau Coconut Forest offers a completely different experience compared to the ancient town, where visitors can row basket boats through lush green water coconut groves, experiencing a miniature Mekong Delta river scene in the heart of Central Vietnam. The journey usually lasts half a day, combining many interesting activities such as boat travel, rowing the round basket boats yourself, participating in folk games on the river, and trying fishing with local people. The close-to-nature space and fresh air make this place especially suitable for families with young children, helping them both play and discover the characteristic lifestyle of the river region.
Not far from Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is a destination rich in historical and cultural value, once an important religious center of the ancient Champa kingdom. The complex of temples and towers is nestled amidst a green valley, creating a scene that is both sacred and mysterious. Visitors should visit My Son in the morning to enjoy the cool air and have ample time to explore the tower clusters. In particular, Cham art performance programs held during the day make the tour more complete, offering a vivid perspective on the culture and spiritual life of the ancient Cham people.
Not far from Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is a destination rich in historical and cultural value. (Source: Collected)
6. Hoi An Travel Itinerary 3D2N/2D1N
6.1. Suggested 1-Day Itinerary in Hoi An
From 7-11 AM is the ideal time to explore the ancient town. Start from the Japanese Covered Bridge, continue to Tan Ky Old House, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, stroll along the Hoai River, then stop for coffee at Reaching Out Tea House or Faifo Coffee.
In the afternoon (2-5 PM), experience basket boat rowing and fishing in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest for a relaxing and fun time. In the evening (after 6 PM), return to the ancient town to enjoy Cao Lau, participate in releasing flower lanterns on the Hoai River, and wander through Nguyen Hoang Night Market to buy souvenirs.
6.2. Hoi An 2-Day 1-Night Itinerary
The first day focuses on heritage values with a tour of the ancient town, the Japanese Covered Bridge, old houses, and special assembly halls. In the evening, enjoy the "Hoi An Memories" show to gain a deeper understanding of local culture. Show ticket prices range from 500,000-1,200,000 VND depending on seating.
The second day offers nature experiences at An Bang Beach, swimming, enjoying seafood, and trying water sports. In the afternoon, visit cafes with beautiful spaces to capture memorable moments. A 2-day trip will be complete by combining cultural and natural experiences.
6.3. Detailed Hoi An 3-Day 2-Night Itinerary
On the first day, from around 8 AM to 12 PM, visitors will explore the most prominent sites of Hoi An Ancient Town such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and Quang Dong Assembly Hall. The ancient space and slow pace of life allow you to easily feel the cultural depth of Hoi An. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the Hoai River, rent a boat for photos, and enjoy the peaceful scenery. In the evening, savor local cuisine and immerse yourself in the shimmering ancient town atmosphere, especially impressive if you visit during the full moon lantern festival.
The second day starts early from Hoi An to visit Sun World Ba Na Hills. Here, visitors will experience the cable car, check-in at the Golden Bridge, visit the French Village, flower gardens, and enjoy entertainment at Fantasy Park. After lunch on Ba Na, you will return to Hoi An or head directly to the Nam Hoi An area to rest and prepare for the next journey.
The last day is for light recreational activities. In the morning, visit the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, experience basket boat rowing, and explore the characteristic river landscape. In the afternoon, conclude the trip with relaxation time at An Bang Beach, enjoying the clear blue water before departing from Hoi An.
7. What to Eat in Hoi An? Must-Try Cuisine and Specialties
7.1. Top Hoi An Dishes You Must Try
Based on Hoi An travel experience, Cao Lau is one of the dishes you must try. This signature dish is only available in Hoi An, nổi bật with chewy noodles made from the traditional water of Ba Le well. A proper bowl of Cao Lau includes char siu pork, dried shrimp, fresh herbs, and crispy grilled rice paper. Prices range from 35,000-50,000 VND/bowl, commonly found along Thai Phien and Tran Cao Van streets.
Mi Quang Phu Chiem by Co Sau is a famous address for many years, with a rich broth simmered from pork bones, shrimp, and crab. The eatery is located on Nguyen Truong To street, open from early morning until 2 PM, priced at 45,000 VND/bowl. Don't miss Banh Mi Phuong on Hoang Dieu street, with rich fillings and a price of only 20,000-25,000 VND/baguette.
Co Sau's Phu Chiem Mi Quang is a long-standing famous address, the rich broth is simmered from pork bones, shrimp, and crab. (Source: Collected)
7.2. Restaurant recommendations in Hoi An
Ba Buoi Chicken Rice, Hoang Dieu street serves fragrant, tender free-range chicken rice, rice grains cooked with chicken broth, served with ginger fish sauce and herbs. Price 50,000 VND/portion, the shop is open daily from 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM.
Ba Bong Corn Sweet Soup at Hoi An market is attractive with the natural sweetness of corn, rich coconut milk, and refreshing shaved ice, only 15,000 VND/bowl, sold from 2 PM to 10 PM. Mot Herbal Tea is a famous refreshing drink in the ancient town, priced at 20,000-30,000 VND/cup, easily found in small shops.
7.3. Experiencing the night market and street food culture
Nguyen Hoang night market opens from 6 PM to 11 PM every evening, featuring many Central Vietnamese specialty snacks. Banh Bao Banh Vac are beautifully shaped dumplings with fresh shrimp filling, priced at 5,000 VND/piece. Grilled Nem Lui is fragrant, served with fresh herbs and rice paper, priced at 30,000 VND/set.
The atmosphere at the night market is filled with sounds and aromas from the food stalls. You can bargain cheerfully when buying specialties like mam nem (fermented anchovy sauce) or dried cao lau to bring home as gifts. A fun Hoi An travel tip is to visit the night market on an empty stomach to try many dishes and remember to bring small change for convenient shopping.
8. Tips for a budget-friendly and safe trip to Hoi An
8.1. Budget estimation and saving tips for Hoi An
The total cost for a 3-day, 2-night trip to Hoi An typically ranges from 3,500,000 to 5,500,000 VND per person, including flights, accommodation, food, and sightseeing. To save money, you should book flight tickets 1-2 months in advance or choose mid-week travel times.
Choosing a homestay or a small hotel is a reasonable option instead of high-end resorts. Prioritize eating at local eateries and street food stalls rather than luxurious restaurants. Purchasing combo tours, all-inclusive tickets, or getting around by bicycle can also significantly reduce costs.
8.2. Notes on clothing, transportation, and shopping
Clothing should be made of light cotton or linen, in light colors, for easy movement and suitability for the weather. Prioritize soft, comfortable footwear for walking. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will protect you and add a stylish touch to your travel photos.
When buying specialties and souvenirs, compare prices at different stores. Lanterns are handmade and cost 50,000-200,000 VND depending on size, while packaged dried cao lau costs 80,000-120,000 VND/box. Avoid buying at crowded tourist spots; opt for shops in residential areas for more reasonable prices.
8.3. Things to avoid / Hoi An travel tips from experienced travelers
It is advisable to visit the ancient town early in the morning (6-8 AM) or late in the afternoon (4-6 PM) when the temperature is milder and the light is beautiful. Avoid moving around during midday (11 AM - 2 PM); instead, you can rest or visit indoor attractions like museums and assembly halls.
Maintain environmental cleanliness by not littering. Especially when releasing flower lanterns, choose eco-friendly options. When visiting pagodas and assembly halls, dress modestly and maintain order to respect the sacred space. Always be open to exploration and cherish every cultural value on your journey.
It is recommended to visit the ancient town in the early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) when the temperature is mild and the light is beautiful. (Source: Collected)
Hoi An travel experience offers unforgettable moments, from the poetic ancient town to traditional craft villages, from unique cuisine to vibrant cultural festivals. Every moment here holds a historical story and a distinct beauty. Plan your own journey to explore Hoi An and share beautiful memories with your loved ones!
