In the charming town of Hoi An, Vietnam, a world of adventure, culture, and gourmet delights awaits. Once a bustling trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries, Hoi An attracted merchants from China, Japan, and Europe, each leaving a lasting mark on its vibrant cultural landscape. With beautiful architecture, ancient temples, and colourful lantern-lit streets, Hoi An offers endless experiences to delight and intrigue. Our guide to the best things to do and see in Hoi An will help you create an unforgettable trip into Vietnam’s rich heritage and dynamic present.
Here are 20 of our favourite things to do in Hoi An.
Whether you’re passionate about history, a culinary enthusiast or searching for adventures, Hoi An offers an array of experiences to satisfy every interest.
1. Soak up a sunset cruise
Cruising the Thu Bon River as the sun sets over Hoi An is a magical memory you’ll cherish forever.
2. Book a cooking class
Many restaurants offer cooking classes where you can learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes. The classes often start with a market tour to select fresh ingredients.
3. Visit a tailor
Hoi An is renowned for its tailoring boutiques, a tradition that dates to Chinese and Japanese traders and is now maintained by over 200 shops. These craftsmen can fashion bespoke garments in as little as 12 hours! The town also boasts skilled shoemakers renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship.
4. Cycle through the countryside
A cycling tour through the rice paddies and local villages surrounding Hoi An offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life and a peaceful, intimate experience.
5. Munch on bành mí
From the best: Banh Mi Queen (book a table to eat upstairs in air-con or grab one on the go from the cart out front).
6. Take tea by the river
Hoi An’s quaint riverside cafes make the perfect spot to enjoy a pause and green tea (the country’s national drink) or Vietnamese coffee (a strong drip coffee sweetened with condensed milk).
7. See the world-renowned Vietnamese Bamboo Circus
Teh Dar transports you to the world of Vietnamese highlanders with wild animal hunts, moonlit romances, and jungle tales of death and reincarnation featuring daring acrobatics and mesmerising tribal melodies. It’s an unforgettable experience located at Lune Center, at the confluence of the Thu Bon and Hoai Rivers.
8. See the sites
Hoi An is home to many ancient temples, pagodas, and well-preserved historic homes. The famous Japanese Bridge was closed for renovations when we were there, but it’s also worth a stop.
9. Stroll the Hoi An Night Market
Shop for local handicrafts, sample street food, and enjoy live performances.
10. Experience Hoi An after dark
As night falls over Hoi An, the town turns up the charm, adorned with delicate paper lanterns that cast a soft glow outside every shop and restaurant. We highly recommend dinner at Morning Glory Signature restaurant, owned by international culinary figure Ms Vy, for a deliciously innovative take on traditional Vietnamese flavours.
11. Raise a glass
Unwind at the Market Terrace bar, a rooftop haven overlooking Hoi An’s bustling street market.
12. Explore the town’s numerous art galleries
Hoi An is home to many talented artists, and the galleries showcase a range of styles from traditional to contemporary, so it’s an excellent opportunity to purchase a unique piece of art as a memento of your trip.
13. Visit the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture
This museum offers a deeper understanding of the town’s rich heritage. It houses artifacts that span several centuries and gives insights into Hoi An’s past as a significant trading port.
14. Spend at least one afternoon at An Bang Beach
Just a short ride from the town centre, this pristine beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying a seaside lunch at one of the many beachside cafes.
Related: Vietnam’s Best Beach Resorts
15. Explore the Hoi An Central Market
Bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, the markets are a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts. To navigate the market, start early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and remember to bargain for the best prices.
16. Dine at Hoi An’s first and only modern fusion restaurant
TOK (Take Over Kitchen), is a vibrant fusion bar and restaurant nestled in Hoi An’s scenic rice paddies. It started in 2021 during the pandemic as a pop-up in a deserted restaurant in An Bang, aiming to support local farmers and bring life back to the community. With indoor and outdoor seating, rooftop terraces, and cozy daybeds, TOK is perfect for enjoying cocktails or a meal with friends and family.
17. Step into a Mexican-inspired haven at Mezcal Cocteleria
Tucked away on Phan Chu Trinh Street, Mezcal Cocteleria offers imported tequila and mezcal, blending traditional and modern mixology and offering a cocktail menu that reflects its passion and the spirits it celebrates. Mezcal lovers can savour “El Padrino,” featuring Recuerdo and Siete Misterios mezcals, mirasol-infused tequila, amaretto, and a hint of absinthe.
18. Find Peace at the Reaching Out Tea House
Located near Thu Bon River, enjoy a quiet tea or traditional Vietnamese Iced Coffee in this unique Hoi An spot. Designed to embody “the joy of silence,” all servers here are hearing- or speech-impaired, communicating through gestures and warm smiles. Founded in 2000 by Quyen Mai and her husband Binh Le Nguyen, the tea house originated from Binh’s life-changing experience after a medical incident in Da Nang. It provides inclusive job opportunities for disabled locals.
19. Experience Hoi An’s unique Coconut Basket boats
Just a 15-minute ride from Hoi An’s Ancient Town is Trang Coconut Village. From there, you can book a peaceful coconut boat ride along the river – although you might come across boats playing music and gently spinning around. It’s a must-do activity in Hoi An!
20. Don’t leave Hoi An without trying Banh Xeo
This delicious Vietnamese crepe is filled with simple yet delicious greens and meats that are prepared differently throughout the country. Hai Dao Pancakes Restaurant is renowned as one of the top spots for crispy pancakes in Hoi An, attracting tourists with its diverse menu and efficient service. Their fried cakes feature a golden hue, crispy exterior, and a soft, moist interior. Find them at 160 Ly Thai To Street, Hoi An.
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How to Get to Hoi An
Hoi An enjoys excellent transport connectivity, ensuring smooth access and several options for travellers to this cherished Vietnamese town. The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is mild and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
By Bus: The most economical and efficient choice, especially since the nearest train station and airport are in Da Nang. Regular bus services operate from various origins, offering a straightforward journey to Hoi An.
By Train: Although Hoi An lacks a train station, travellers can opt for a scenic train ride to Da Nang, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to Hoi An. Da Nang Station serves numerous routes across Vietnam, providing a picturesque journey through the country’s landscapes.
By Motorbike: For the adventurous traveller, a motorbike transfer is a compelling option, particularly when journeying to or from Hue in the north. The iconic Hai Van Pass route promises breathtaking vistas, enhancing the journey to Hoi An with memorable experiences.
By Plane: Da Nang International Airport, approximately an hour’s drive north of Hoi An, is the nearest air gateway with domestic flights and international connections, primarily from other Asian destinations. Seamless transport arrangements from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An ensure a hassle-free transition – we booked an affordable transfer with our hotel directly.
Getting Around Hoi An
In central Hoi An, everything is conveniently within walking distance and exploring the ancient town on food is an essential Hoi An experience.
For longer journeys, bicycles can be rented for about 30,000 VND daily and motorbikes for approximately 165,000 VND daily. Many accommodations offer bicycle rental services.
Metered taxis are readily available and cost-effective. Due to the busy and sometimes chaotic road conditions, renting a car is unnecessary and discouraged.
