Top Things to Do in Hoi An at Night Recommended by Local Experts

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its enchanting beauty, especially when the sun sets. By night, this ancient town transforms into a magical scene full of lights, culture, and history. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Hoi An at night, offering both vibrant energy and peaceful moments. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the night in Hoi An promises a unique experience you won’t forget.

1. Stroll Through the Ancient Town with Lantern Lights

As night falls, Hoi An’s Ancient Town turns into a sea of colorful lanterns. This charming area showcases a unique mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture. At night, glowing lanterns hang from doorways and shop windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What You Can Do

• Take a Walking Tour: Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets and admire the beautifully lit buildings.
• Explore the Riverside: Head to the Thu Bon River, where boats with flickering lanterns create a romantic ambiance. You can also take a boat ride to see the town illuminated from the water.
• Shop for Souvenirs: Browse local shops selling handcrafted lanterns, silk goods, and cultural souvenirs.

Special Tips

• Timing: Hoi An is most vibrant on the 14th day of each lunar month. The Lantern Festival takes place then, with a special lighting ceremony.
• Dress Comfortably: Expect to do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

Address: Hoi An Ancient Town, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Hours: Open daily, best to visit after 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free to walk around; however, a small entrance fee (around 120,000 VND) may apply for entry to certain landmarks.

2. Take a Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

One of the most peaceful ways to spend the evening in Hoi An is to take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. The soft glow of lanterns from the riverbanks creates a serene and picturesque scene.

What You Can Do

• Float Through the Ancient Town: Ride a small traditional boat along the river and enjoy the picturesque views of Hoi An’s historical buildings reflected in the water.
• Release Floating Lanterns: It’s a local tradition to release a floating lantern on the river for good luck. This experience can be incredibly magical and meaningful.

Special Tips

• Best Time: Evening boat rides are best enjoyed after sunset, from around 7:00 PM onwards, when the lights are at their brightest.
• Price: A typical boat ride costs around 150,000 VND per boat.

Address: Thu Bon River, Hoi An
Hours: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: 150,000 VND per boat (up to 4 people)

3. Enjoy Hoi An’s Vibrant Night Markets

Hoi An’s night market is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the lively culture of the town after dark. The market is located near the river and is filled with stalls selling everything from clothes and accessories to local food and souvenirs.

What You Can Do

• Shop for Local Crafts: Browse through stalls selling beautiful handmade products, from wooden carvings to silk lanterns.
• Try Local Street Food: Don’t miss out on sampling some of Hoi An’s delicious street food like Cao Lau, Bánh Bao, or grilled skewers.
• Interact with Locals: Chat with local vendors to learn more about the town’s craft and food culture.

Special Tips

• Bargaining: Bargaining is common in the market, so feel free to negotiate prices.
• Visit Early: The night market can get crowded, so visiting early gives you a better chance to explore without the rush.

Address: Night Market, Nguyen Hoang Street, Hoi An
Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: Free entry

4. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge at Night

The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of Hoi An's most iconic landmarks, and visiting it at night offers a completely different perspective of its beauty. The bridge, dating back to the 16th century, is beautifully illuminated after dark, making it a stunning sight.

What You Can Do

• Photograph the Bridge: The illuminated bridge against the backdrop of the night sky is one of the most photogenic spots in Hoi An.
• Learn the History: The bridge was originally built by the Japanese community to connect their settlement with the Chinese part of town, and it’s still an important symbol of Hoi An’s cultural heritage.

Special Tips

• Entry Fee: The bridge is accessible via a small entrance fee, usually around 20,000 VND.
• Visit During Quiet Hours: To avoid the crowds, visit late in the evening, when the area is quieter and more peaceful.

Address: Japanese Covered Bridge, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Hoi An
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Around 30,000 VND for the entrance fee. Free if you don't come inside the bridge.

5. Watch the "Ký Ức Hội An" (Hoi An Memories) Show

If you’re looking for a truly spectacular experience, make sure to attend the "Ký Ức Hội An" (Hoi An Memories) show. This outdoor performance is one of Vietnam’s largest stage productions, featuring hundreds of actors, vibrant costumes, and impressive light displays that bring the history of Hoi An to life.

What You Can Do

• Enjoy the Performance: Watch the stunning show that tells the story of Hoi An’s cultural and historical journey, with impressive set designs and choreographed performances.
• Immerse Yourself in History: The show includes performances on a grand scale, with water, light, and sound effects that create a breathtaking experience.

Special Tips

• Book in Advance: Due to its popularity, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance.
• Show Duration: The show lasts approximately 70 minutes, so arrive early to get a good seat.
• Dress Comfortably: Be prepared for outdoor seating, so dress accordingly for the weather.

Address: Hoi An Memories Land, Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Hoi An
Hours: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Performance times may vary)
Price: 550,000 VND (Standard), 800,000 VND (VIP)

6. Visit the Hoi An Ancient House and Museums

At night, Hoi An’s ancient houses and museums also offer an interesting look into the town’s rich history. While many tourists visit these sites during the day, some houses and museums stay open late for a unique evening experience.

What You Can Do

• Tour Ancient Houses: Some of Hoi An’s oldest houses, such as Tan Ky House, are open for tours at night. These houses, built centuries ago, have been beautifully preserved and showcase Hoi An’s merchant history.
• Explore Museums: Learn about the town’s fascinating history at museums like the Museum of Trade Ceramics or the Hoi An Museum, where you can see exhibitions on the town’s development and its place in global trade.

Special Tips

• Check Opening Hours: Not all museums and houses are open late, so make sure to check opening times in advance.
• Entry Fee: Most places have a small entrance fee (around 30,000 VND - 50,000 VND).

Address: Various locations in Hoi An Ancient Town
Hours: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (for some ancient houses and museums)
Price: 30,000 VND - 50,000 VND depending on the site

7. Explore Hoi An’s Live Music Venues

For a night filled with music and entertainment, Hoi An offers various venues featuring live music performances. You can experience local talent or relax to tunes that blend both Vietnamese and international styles.

What You Can Do

• Relax at a Rooftop Bar: Many of Hoi An’s rooftop bars offer stunning views of the town along with live music performances.
• Enjoy Acoustic or Jazz Performances: Several cafes and bars host live bands or solo performances in genres like jazz, pop, and folk, adding to the town’s vibrant nightlife.

Special Tips

• Find the Right Spot: Some venues are quieter and perfect for a relaxing evening, while others are more energetic and ideal for socializing.
• Entry Fees: Some bars may have a small cover charge, depending on the artist or event.

Address: Various cafes and bars in Hoi An
Hours: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (times may vary depending on the venue)
Price: Free entry or small cover charge (usually around 50,000 VND)

8. Chill at Coastal Bars

For a laid-back evening by the beach, head to one of the beachside bars in Hoi An. These venues offer stunning views of the coastline and are perfect for a relaxed drink or a casual night out.

What You Can Do

• Enjoy Sunset Views: Many bars are located right by the beach, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking sunsets with a cocktail in hand.
• Socialize: Some bars host live music events, DJ performances, or beach parties, creating a lively atmosphere for those who enjoy meeting new people.

Special Tips

• Choose the Right Bar: Some bars are quieter and more laid-back, while others are known for hosting fun beach parties. Pick the one that fits your vibe.
• Try a Local Drink: Don’t forget to try a tropical cocktail or the local Hoi An specialty, "Cao Lau" cocktail, while watching the waves.

Address: Various beach bars along An Bang Beach, Cua Dai Beach
Google Maps: An Bang Beach
Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Price: 50,000 VND – 200,000 VND depending on the venue

Explore Hoi An at Night with us

For an unforgettable experience around 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.

Whether you're wandering the lantern-lit streets, enjoying a peaceful boat ride, or immersing yourself in a historical performance, Hoi An at night is a truly magical experience. With its rich culture, vibrant markets, and beautiful historic sites, the town offers something for every traveler after sunset.

With over 5,000 five-star reviews, Venus Travel guarantees a well-organized, insightful, and enjoyable journey, led by professional guides who will make sure you experience the true essence of this stunning destination.

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