Things to Do in Hoi An: A Complete Travel Guide

Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring ancient temples and vibrant lantern-lit streets to relaxing on pristine beaches and indulging in authentic Vietnamese cuisine, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in Hoi An for an unforgettable journey!

1. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its beautifully preserved centuries-old houses, assembly halls, and scenic streets. The town is a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, making it a cultural hotspot. Walking through Hoi An feels like stepping back in time, with its yellow-walled buildings, colorful lanterns, and wooden shop-houses.

What to Do:

• Stroll along the lantern-lit streets and soak in the atmosphere.
• Visit the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic 18th-century structure symbolizing Hoi An’s history.
• Stop by old merchant houses like the Tan Ky Old House, which showcases the architecture of past centuries.
• Explore the Fujian Assembly Hall, a beautifully decorated temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu.
• Enjoy a coffee at one of the historic cafés overlooking the Thu Bon River.

Special Tips:

• Buy a Hoi An Old Town Ticket at designated counters to enter heritage sites.
• The streets are mostly pedestrian-only, making it great for walking and photography.
• Visit early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds.

Address: Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam

Entrance Fee: 120,000 VND for foreign tourists

Best Time to Visit: 7:00 AM - 9:30 PM

Website: www.hoianworldheritage.org.vn

2. Take a Boat Ride on the Hoai River

One of the most magical experiences in Hoi An is taking a traditional wooden boat ride on the Hoai River, especially in the evening when the river is illuminated by floating lanterns. This activity offers a peaceful and romantic way to experience the beauty of the town from a different perspective.

What to Do:

• Ride a boat and release a floating lantern for good luck.
• Enjoy the stunning night views of Hoi An as the lantern reflections dance on the water.
• Capture breathtaking photos of the lantern-lit town.
• Experience a quiet moment on the river, away from the busy streets.

Special Tips:

• Boat rides cost around 100,000 VND for a 20-minute ride (negotiable).
• The best time for a boat ride is after sunset, around 6:30 - 8:30 PM.
• Buy lanterns from local vendors for around 10,000 - 20,000 VND each.
• Be mindful when releasing lanterns to avoid adding to river pollution.

Address: Hoai River, Hoi An, Vietnam

Best Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Price: 100,000 VND per boat (2-4 people)

3. Visit the Hoi An Night Market

Hoi An’s Night Market is a lively place to shop for souvenirs, taste local street food, and admire colorful lanterns. Located on Nguyen Hoang Street, this market comes alive after sunset with hundreds of vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious local snacks.

What to Do:

• Shop for handmade crafts, silk lanterns, and tailor-made clothing.
• Try local street food like Banh Mi, Cao Lau, and Sweet Corn Pudding.
• Take Instagram-worthy photos under the lantern-lit sky.
• Watch street performances and enjoy the bustling nightlife atmosphere.

Special Tips:

• Bargaining is common, so feel free to negotiate prices.
• Visit around 6:00 - 9:00 PM for the best atmosphere.
• Some food stalls only accept cash, so bring small bills.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Address: Nguyen Hoang Night Market, Hoi An, Vietnam

Opening Hours: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

4. Learn to Make Lanterns

Hoi An is famous for its handcrafted lanterns, and you can take a workshop to create your own! Lantern-making is an essential part of Hoi An's culture, with techniques passed down through generations.

What to Do:

• Join a Lantern-Making Workshop at a local craft shop.
• Learn about the history and significance of lanterns in Hoi An culture.
• Take home your self-made lantern as a souvenir.

Special Tips:

• Workshops last around 1.5 - 2 hours.
• Prices range from 200,000 - 400,000 VND per person.
• Book in advance, especially during peak season.
• Some workshops offer customized lantern colors and designs.

Address: You can find any Lantern Workshop in the Old Town Streets.

Price: 200,000 - 400,000 VND per person

5. Relax on An Bang Beach

Just 4 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach is the perfect spot to relax, swim, and enjoy fresh seafood. Unlike the more commercialized beaches, An Bang maintains a laid-back vibe, with soft golden sand and clear blue waters.

What to Do:

• Sunbathe and swim in the clear waters.
• Enjoy a seafood meal at beachfront restaurants.
• Try water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.
• Take a yoga or meditation class by the sea.

Special Tips:

• Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Free public access, but some beach chairs require a small fee.
• Best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon.
• Some restaurants offer free sunbeds if you order food or drinks.

Address: An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam

Best Time: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Free

6. Take a Cooking Class

Hoi An is a paradise for food lovers, and one of the best ways to experience its rich culinary culture is by taking a cooking class. Local cooking schools offer hands-on experiences where you can learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients.

What to Do:

• Visit a local market to learn about fresh ingredients and Vietnamese spices.
• Take a guided cooking class and learn to prepare dishes like Pho, Cao Lau, Spring Rolls, and Vietnamese Pancakes.
• Enjoy the meal you’ve cooked and take home the recipes to try again.

Special Tips:

• Many cooking classes include a market tour or a boat ride to an organic farm.
• Classes usually last 3-4 hours, so plan your schedule accordingly.
• Prices range from 400,000 - 1,000,000 VND, depending on the course.
• Book in advance to secure a spot, especially in high season.

Price: 600,000 - 1,200,000 VND

7. Get Tailor-Made Clothes

Hoi An is known as the tailoring capital of Vietnam, offering high-quality custom-made clothing at affordable prices. The town is home to hundreds of tailor shops where you can get a suit, dress, or even shoes custom-made within a day or two.

What to Do:

• Visit a tailor shop and browse fabric options.
• Get measured and discuss design details with the tailor.
• Have fittings to ensure a perfect fit before finalizing the piece.
• Collect your custom-made outfit within 24-48 hours.

Special Tips:

• Choose a reputable tailor shop with good reviews.
• Prices vary depending on fabric and design, so negotiate if necessary.
• Order at the beginning of your trip to allow time for adjustments.
• Some shops offer worldwide shipping if you don't have enough time to wait for the finished product.

Opening Hours: Normally 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Price: Varies based on fabric and design

8. Explore the Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Located just outside of Hoi An, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu) is often referred to as the "Little Mekong Delta" due to its dense palm groves and tranquil waterways. This ecological site offers a unique experience where visitors can explore the coconut forest on traditional basket boats.

What to Do:

• Take a fun basket boat ride through the coconut forest.
• Watch thrilling performances by skilled boatmen who spin the basket boats.
• Try your hand at casting fishing nets like a local fisherman.
• Enjoy fresh coconut water and learn about the history of the area from local guides.

Special Tips:

• Boat tours typically cost 150,000 - 200,000 VND per person.
• The best time to visit is in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat, as the boats have no shade.
• Bring cash for tips and souvenirs from the local vendors.

Address: Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Cam Thanh, Hoi An, Vietnam

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Price: 150,000 - 200,000 VND per person

Hoi An is a magical place full of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're wandering the lantern-lit streets, taking a boat ride on the Hoai River, or getting a custom-made outfit, there are endless things to do in Hoi An. Plan your trip and immerse yourself in the beauty of this ancient town!

Explore All Things to Do in Hoi An with local experts

For an unforgettable experience in Hoi An, we, as local experts, offer daily tours including both group and private options. Whether you prefer a shared adventure or a personalized experience, our tours ensure you enjoy all the best activities.

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