Things to do in Hoi An

Discover the enchanting beauty of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in Vietnam's Quang Nam Province. This captivating destination offers a unique blend of history, culture, and vibrant local life, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience. With its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and delicious cuisine, Hoi An Ancient Town promises an unforgettable journey. Book your flights and accommodations to this gem of Vietnam seamlessly with Traveloka and start planning your adventure today!

Why Visit Hoi An Ancient Town?

What Hoi An Ancient Town Is Famous For

Hoi An Ancient Town is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its architecture is a fascinating fusion of indigenous and foreign influences, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European styles. The town is particularly famous for its atmospheric streets adorned with thousands of colorful silk lanterns, which illuminate the ancient buildings and canals each evening, creating a magical ambiance. It's also celebrated for its skilled tailors, offering custom-made clothing at affordable prices, and its distinct culinary heritage.

Top Highlights You Shouldn't Miss

• Wandering through the ancient streets and admiring the historic architecture.
• Experiencing the magical glow of the lanterns at night.
• Getting custom-tailored clothes made by local artisans.
• Sampling the unique local delicacies like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings.
• Taking a boat trip along the Thu Bon River.
• Visiting the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
• Exploring the vibrant Hoi An Market.

Best Time to Visit Hoi An Ancient Town

Weather by Month

Hoi An experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season runs from February to August, with temperatures gradually increasing and humidity rising. The best time to visit is generally between February and April, when the weather is pleasant with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for exploring the ancient town and surrounding areas. From May to August, it can get quite hot. The rainy season typically occurs from September to January, with heavy rainfall and a higher chance of typhoons, especially in October and November. During this period, the town can also experience flooding.

Festivals & Peak Periods

The most significant event in Hoi An is the Full Moon Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of every lunar month. During this festival, the town is lit solely by colorful lanterns, and all electric lights are turned off, creating an incredibly romantic and mystical atmosphere. This is a very popular time to visit, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation. Other peak travel periods include Vietnamese national holidays such as Tết (Lunar New Year, usually late January or February) and the Reunification Day/Labor Day holiday (April 30th - May 1st), as well as the September school holidays. For travelers from the Philippines, consider avoiding the Philippine school holidays in March, April, May, October, November, and December if you prefer fewer crowds.

Top Things to Do in Hoi An Ancient Town

Attractions & Landmarks

• Japanese Covered Bridge: A historic and iconic symbol of Hoi An, this beautifully preserved bridge features a pagoda inside and offers picturesque views.
• Hoi An Ancient Town streets: Simply strolling through the pedestrian-friendly streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and admiring the architecture is an attraction in itself.
• Hoi An Market: A bustling hub where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and everyday goods. It's a great place to experience local life and try street food.
• Museum of Trade Ceramics: Housed in a beautiful old merchant house, this museum showcases artifacts related to Hoi An's trading history.
• Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien): A stunning example of Chinese architecture, this ornate temple is dedicated to the sea goddess Thien Hau and is a vibrant cultural site.
• Tan Ky Old House: One of the most famous ancient houses, it displays a unique blend of architectural styles and has been preserved for generations.

Activities & Experiences

• Lantern Making Workshop: Learn the traditional craft of making Hoi An lanterns and create your own souvenir. Bookings can be made through Traveloka.
• Tailoring Services: Get custom-made clothing, from suits and dresses to shirts, within 24-48 hours at one of Hoi An's many reputable tailor shops.
• Boat Trip on Thu Bon River: Enjoy a serene boat ride, especially at sunset, to see the town from a different perspective and witness the release of floating lanterns.
• Cycling Tour: Rent a bicycle and explore the surrounding countryside, rice paddies, and local villages at your own pace.
• Cooking Class: Immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine by joining a cooking class to learn how to prepare local specialties.
• Explore the Ancient Town at Night: Witness the magical transformation of Hoi An as thousands of lanterns illuminate the streets and river.
• Visit An Bang Beach: A short ride from the ancient town, this beautiful beach offers a relaxing escape with clear waters and beachfront restaurants.

Neighborhoods & Areas of Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town itself is a compact and walkable area, but it's often divided into distinct zones that offer slightly different experiences. The main area is the historic core, characterized by its narrow streets, ancient houses, and merchant halls. This is where you'll find the majority of attractions, shops, and restaurants. To the east, you'll find areas closer to the Thu Bon River, offering lovely riverside walks and boat tour departures. The western parts of the ancient town lead towards the main roads and modern amenities, while the southern parts might offer slightly quieter residential pockets. For those looking to venture slightly further, the areas around the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Fujian Assembly Hall are particularly atmospheric.

For day trip suggestions, consider exploring the nearby beaches like An Bang Beach, or venturing inland to discover the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Cham ruins. These destinations are easily accessible from Hoi An Ancient Town.

Getting to Hoi An Ancient Town

By Air

The nearest airport to Hoi An Ancient Town is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), located approximately 30 kilometers away. Direct flights are available from major hubs in Southeast Asia, including Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Bangkok (BKK), and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). For travelers from the Philippines, you can find direct flights from Manila (MNL) and Cebu (CEB) to Da Nang. From Da Nang airport, you can take a taxi, pre-booked private car, or a shuttle bus to Hoi An Ancient Town. Traveloka offers a wide selection of flights to Da Nang, making it easy to plan your journey.

By Ground Transport

If you are already in Vietnam, you can reach Hoi An by various ground transport options. Sleeper buses are a popular and budget-friendly way to travel from cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, or Hue to Hoi An. The journey can be long but offers a chance to see the Vietnamese countryside. Alternatively, you can take a train to Da Nang station and then a taxi or local bus to Hoi An. For a more comfortable and scenic route, consider hiring a private car or taking a taxi from Da Nang directly to your accommodation in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Getting Around Hoi An Ancient Town

Public Transport

Hoi An Ancient Town is largely a pedestrian-friendly zone, with many streets closed to motorized traffic during certain hours, especially in the evenings. The best way to explore the ancient town is by walking. This allows you to fully appreciate the architecture, discover hidden alleys, and soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Bicycles are also a very popular and convenient mode of transport for both the ancient town and the surrounding countryside. Many hotels and guesthouses offer free bicycle rentals, or you can easily rent one from local shops.

Taxi, Rideshare & Car Rental

Taxis are readily available in Hoi An, but it's advisable to use reputable companies or book through your hotel to ensure fair pricing. Ridesharing apps are also operational in the Da Nang-Hoi An area, offering a convenient option for getting around. For longer distances or day trips outside the ancient town, such as to My Son Sanctuary or nearby beaches, you can hire a private car with a driver. This offers flexibility and comfort, allowing you to customize your itinerary. Traveloka can assist with booking airport transfers and local transportation options.

Food & Dining in Hoi An Ancient Town

Local Dishes to Try

Hoi An is a culinary paradise, famous for its unique and delicious local specialties. Don't leave without trying Cao Lau, a signature noodle dish with pork, greens, and crispy croutons, said to be made with water from a specific ancient well. White Rose dumplings (Banh Bao Vac) are delicate steamed rice dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, artfully shaped and topped with crispy shallots. Mi Quang is another flavorful noodle dish, typically served with turmeric-infused broth, shrimp, pork, and rice crackers. For a taste of local street food, try Banh Mi Phuong, renowned for its incredibly flavorful baguette sandwiches.

Best Areas to Eat

The ancient town itself is brimming with fantastic dining options, from charming riverside restaurants to small, family-run eateries tucked away in narrow alleys. The area around the Japanese Covered Bridge and the main streets like Tran Hung Dao and Le Loi offer a high concentration of restaurants. For an authentic local experience, head to the Hoi An Market, where you can find numerous food stalls serving fresh and affordable Vietnamese dishes. Many of these establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Hoi An.

Insider Tips for Hoi An Ancient Town

• Purchase a ticket for the Hoi An Ancient Town entrance, which allows access to several historic houses, assembly halls, and the Japanese Covered Bridge.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot.
• Bargain politely when shopping for souvenirs or clothing, but remember that prices are generally very reasonable.
• Stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months. Carry a reusable water bottle.
• Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
• Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the market.
• Consider visiting the ancient town early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday heat and peak crowds.

More Things to Do Near Hoi An Ancient Town

Beyond the ancient town, the surrounding region offers a wealth of attractions. A short bicycle ride or taxi trip will take you to the beautiful An Bang Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. For history enthusiasts, the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a must-visit, showcasing the architectural grandeur of the Champa Kingdom. You can also explore the nearby countryside, visiting local villages, organic vegetable gardens, and craft workshops. For a longer excursion, consider a trip to the Marble Mountains near Da Nang, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills with caves and pagodas.

Traveloka offers great deals on hotels and flights to Da Nang, making it easy to combine a visit to Hoi An Ancient Town with other nearby attractions. Explore options for Binh Duong and Binh Minh to plan your perfect Vietnamese adventure.

Hoi An Ancient Town is a destination that truly captures the heart with its timeless charm and rich cultural tapestry. From its lantern-lit streets to its delectable cuisine and warm hospitality, it offers an experience unlike any other. Whether you're seeking history, relaxation, or culinary delights, Hoi An Ancient Town delivers. Book your unforgettable trip to Hoi An Ancient Town and discover its magic with Traveloka today!