Perhaps the most picturesque town in Vietnam, Hoi An charms visitors with its golden walls, riverside views, and lantern-lit nights. It only takes one photo of the glowing streets to convince most travellers to add it to their Vietnam itinerary
However, Hoi An is more than just beautiful lanterns. Before I visited, I worried it might be another overly touristy stop that didn’t live up to the hype. Instead, I found one of my favourite places in Vietnam.
Yes, it is touristy – but, strangely, in a way I didn’t mind. Many of the top things to do in Hoi An are popular for good reason. From cultural workshops to lantern-lit boat rides, there’s a special kind of magic here that makes even the “touristy” experiences feel more genuine.
In this guide, I’ll share the very best things to do in Hoi An. So whether you’re here for the food, the history, the beaches, or simply to have fun, there’s something for you.
Don’t forget to stick around until the end for some essential travel tips I found super useful when visiting Hoi An.
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Discover the Best Things to Do in Hoi An
Below is a list of 22 things to do in Hoi An, based on my own trip to Hoi An whilst backpacking Vietnam. Expect lots of food, fun, beautiful architecture and even some day trips for those with a little more time on their hands.
Part 1: Essential Things to Do in Hoi An’s Old Town
Hoi An’s Old Town is its heart. You’ll be surrounded by sunnshine yellow buildings, stumble across local markets, and shop to your heart’s content. It’s most likely where you’ll visit first, and I’d recommend trying to stay as close to here as possible so make the most of its magical and lively atmosphere.
1. Explore Hoi An’s Ancient Town
The best thing to do in Hoi An is simply to wander around its old town. I spent hours wandering down little alleys, discovering quaint cafés, art galleries, and shops selling everything from silk lanterns to handmade leather goods.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time. This is where Hoi An’s authenticity comes from – it is a traditional trading port, not created for tourists, but preserved for future generations to enjoy and discover instead.
The architecture is beautiful. You’ll find French colonial buildings mixed with Chinese shophouses and old wooden merchant houses, all of which are painted the most joyful yellow. It’s a photographer’s dream, with every corner having something interesting to capture.
Technically, as a World Heritage Site, you need a ticket to enter the Old Town. The price is just 120,000 VND (About £3.30), and gives you access to five of the 20 historic sites, such as temples, museums, and old houses.
Tickets are sold from a small kiosk behind the Japanese Covered Bridge. However, while ticket checks are rarely enforced and you could easily get away with not purchasing one, the fee helps maintain this UNESCO site, so I recommend purchasing one – it’s a small contribution to keeping Hoi An’s magic alive.
2. Cross the Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of Hoi An’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s impossible to miss when exploring the Old Town. Built in the 16th century by the Japanese community, it’s a stunning example of historical architecture that still feels alive today. The ornate carvings, wooden pagoda roof, and stone statues at the entrance give it a sense of grandeur.
While it doesn’t take long to walk across, take a moment to slow down and absorb the details. It’s especially atmospheric in the evening when the lanterns light up, casting warm reflections onto the canal below.
If you’re into photography, mornings are best before the crowds arrive. But honestly, the contrast between the tourists dressed up for their photos as locals fished in the river nearby is part of the charm. I even saw a few brides posing here, which made the moment feel even more special.
3. Get Perfectly Tailored Clothes and Accessories
As I backpacked around Southeast Asia, one thing about Hoi An kept coming up: tailor-made clothes. The town is famous for its hundreds of tailor shops, where skilled seamstresses can recreate almost anything. Show them a picture you’ve found online, from a simple dress to a custom-fitted suit, and they’ll have it ready for you in just a day or two.
It’s also surprisingly affordable compared to Western prices, though quality does vary between shops. For the best experience, do a little research or ask locals for recommendations. And make sure to bargain for the best price.
Even if you’re not after a full wardrobe, you can pick up handmade shoes, leather bags, or silk scarves. Walking through the tailor shops gave me a glimpse into Hoi An’s rich tradition of craftsmanship, which has thrived here for centuries.
4. Visit Hoi An’s Night Market
Hoi An’s Night Market is one of the most vibrant places to visit once the sun goes down. Located on Nguyen Hoang Street, just across the bridge from the Old Town, it bursts into life with stalls selling souvenirs, street food, and handmade crafts.
The market is best known for its endless rows of glowing lanterns, but the food is the big highlight here. You can snack on banh mi, grilled skewers, fresh spring rolls, and even sweet coconut pancakes. They are all freshly made for a fraction of the price you’d pay back home.
The market can get crowded, so it’s worth going early in the evening before the tour groups arrive. Even if you’re not shopping, the atmosphere alone makes it worth visiting. For me, it was one of the most memorable nights in Hoi An.
5. Visit the Precious Heritage Art Gallery
The Precious Heritage Art Gallery, created by French photographer Réhahn, is a hidden gem in Hoi An. It’s a stunning space dedicated to Vietnam’s diverse ethnic cultures, showcasing portraits, traditional clothing, and stories from across the country.
What I loved most was how personal it felt. Réhahn has spent years travelling through Vietnam, meeting people from remote communities, and documenting their way of life. His photographs capture not just faces, but entire histories and traditions.
The gallery is free to visit, and it’s the kind of place where you end up spending far longer than expected. Each portrait is paired with detailed information about the culture it represents, offering a deeper understanding of Vietnam beyond the tourist sites.
It’s also housed in a beautiful old building that feels calm and inviting, a nice break from the busy streets outside. If you want something meaningful to do in Hoi An, this gallery will stay with you long after you’ve left.
6. Explore Tan Ky House & Ancient Town architecture
I mentioned earlier that Hoi An was a trading port, and it is filled with merchant homes. The most famous one is Tan Ky House. Built over 200 years ago, it’s been passed down through several generations of the same family, who still live there today.
The wooden beams, Chinese-style carvings, and open courtyards give you a glimpse into how wealthy traders once lived. There are also beautiful antiques and calligraphy on display, all carefully preserved. One detail that stood out to me was the “flood marks” painted on the walls, showing just how high the water had risen during Hoi An’s seasonal floods.
The house is included in the Old Town entrance ticket, so it’s easy to pop in while exploring. Even if you’re not normally a museum person, Tan Ky House offers a real sense of Hoi An’s past that’s hard to find elsewhere.
7. Check out the Museum of Trade Ceramics
If you want to learn more about Hoi An’s history as a trading port, the Museum of Trade Ceramics is a must-visit. Located in a restored 19th-century wooden house, it displays ceramics from China, Japan, the Middle East, and beyond, all of which passed through Hoi An centuries ago.
The exhibits highlight just how international Hoi An was during its golden age, connecting Asia with Europe via maritime trade routes. The building itself is also worth admiring, with its traditional architecture and airy courtyards. It feels more intimate than a large museum, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
While it’s not as flashy as some of Hoi An’s other attractions, it’s a rewarding stop if you’re interested in history and culture.
Part 2: Best Food & Drink Experiences in Hoi An
Vietnam is known for its food, and Hoi An is the place to fully immerse yourself in all it has to offer. From famous street food stalls to hands-on cooking classes, there are endless ways to experience its flavours. Whether you’re sipping egg coffee or biting into a fresh banh mi, the food here is unforgettable.
8. Join a Hoi An Cooking Class
I always think one of the best ways to learn a bit more about any country you visit is by taking a cooking class. Food is such an important part of every culture, so why not get involved yourself? And Hoi An is one of the best places to do it in Vietnam.
But whichever tour you choose, you’ll learn how to prepare classic dishes like spring rolls and pancakes. As a solo traveller, it’s a great way to meet other travellers, but it’s also a great way to connect with locals in a way that brief interactions can’t offer.
And the best part? You get to eat what you make and take the recipes home to recreate a slice of Vietnam at home.
When it comes to choosing your tour, there’s plenty to choose from. Some tours purely focus on the cooking aspect, whilst others create a whole day experience. They include a guided walk through a local market, where you can learn about fresh ingredients, discover how they’re grown, and understand how they’re traditionally used in Vietnamese dishes.
9. Try Vietnam’s Famous Egg Coffee and Take a Coffee Making Class
Vietnamese coffee is legendary, especially its famous egg coffee, known as cà phê trứng. At first, egg and coffee might not sound particularly appetising, but if you have a sweet tooth, this unique treat is sure to surprise you.
Made from egg yolk and condensed milk, whisked into a light, airy, creamy foam, and topped with hot espresso, or served over ice, it feels more like a dessert than a drink. It’s rich, indulgent, and totally enticing.
In Hoi An, you can take the experience further by joining one of the cafés offering coffee-making classes. You’ll learn to brew the perfect cup using traditional methods, while having fun experimenting with different styles. Just be warned, you’ll taste a lot of coffee and may leave feeling happily buzzed from the whole experience.
If a class doesn’t appeal, simply try it at one of the Old Town’s cosy cafés, many of which double as tiny art galleries. I spent hours sipping my drink, people-watching, and soaking up the charm of the streets around me. It’s a small, simple experience, but one that perfectly captures the slower, sweeter side of Hoi An life.
10. Discover Hoi An’s Top Eating Spots on a Walking Street Food Tour
A walking street food tour is one of the most fun ways to explore Hoi An. I don’t know about you, but when I only have a short time in a place, I want to eat at the best, most authentic restaurants to really make the most of my time there.
This is why food tours are so great. A seasoned guide will take you to all the best, hidden stalls and family-run restaurants that you would never have found on your own. Each stop introduces you to new flavours, with crispy pancakes, fresh spring rolls, and fragrant noodle dishes.
Tours usually include tastings, explanations of each dish’s history, and a chance to chat with the vendors. It’s also a great way to explore the Old Town streets at night, when the lights and lanterns make everything feel magical.
You can eat as much or as little as you want, and it’s perfect for solo travellers or groups alike.
Bonus: Must-try dishes: Cao Lau, White Rose Dumplings, Banh Mi Phuong
Whether you decide to do a tour or not, there are a few things you must try whilst in Hoi An.
Cao Lau is a local noodle dish with thick, chewy noodles, fresh herbs, and tender pork. It’s a must for lunch or dinner, and can be found in many restaurants around the city.
White Rose Dumplings are delicate little parcels filled with shrimp, almost too pretty to eat, but absolutely worth it. This traditional street food is the perfect snack to fuel your wandering, and some of the best can be found at the White Rose Restaurant.
And then there’s Banh Mi Phuong, where you will arguably get the best banh mi in Vietnam. This place has been around for 30 years, and whilst you may have to queue, the crispy baguette, fresh herbs, and perfectly seasoned meats are well worth it.
Part 3: Unique Cultural Experiences in Hoi An
Beyond the pretty lanterns, Hoi An is packed with cultural traditions you can experience for yourself. From learning traditional crafts to joining a lantern-making workshop, these activities bring you a little closer to Vietnam.
11. Join a Lantern-Making Workshop
I’ve mentioned it many times already, and you can see from my photos of Hoi An that it truly is the town of lanterns. So, where better to make your own than right here?
There are small lantern-making workshops all over Hoi An, usually lasting about 1–2 hours. Most will have the bamboo frame ready for you, but you get to choose the fabric and stretch it over your lantern while your guide explains the history of this ancient craft.
The best part? The lanterns can be folded flat, so they easily fit in your bag and make the perfect souvenir to take home.
12. Learn traditional crafts in Kim Bong Carpentry Village
Kim Bong Carpentry Village is about 7 km from Hoi An, and it’s where traditional woodworking has been passed down for generations. A great way to visit Kim Bong is by taking a bike tour to the village. The road there takes you through beautiful countryside filled with rice fields, farms and many water buffalo.
At the village itself, you can join workshops that allow you to try your hand at making traditional rice paper or even weave a sleeping mat. Walking around the village, you’ll see everything from ornate wooden chairs to decorative boats, all made using traditional tools.
It does feel quite touristy as most of the village is tailored now to tourists; however, it gives you insight into some of Hoi An’s past outside of the Old Town, and it’s amazing to see a craft so well-preserved.
13. Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
Tra Que Village is a small, organic farming community just a short ride from Hoi An, and somewhere I feel most people skip when visiting Hoi An. However, its tranquillity is something to be craved after a few days in the busy town.
Rent a bike to visit or join a tour and learn about the local herbs, vegetables, and how villagers grow their produce using traditional methods.
You can join in planting, watering, or even harvesting crops, depending on the season. It’s relaxing, educational, and gives you a real sense of rural Vietnamese life. Many tours include a short cooking demo or meal made using the fresh herbs, which makes the experience even more immersive.
14. Plan Your Visit During the Hoi An Lantern Festival
If you can, plan your trip to coincide with the full moon and experience Hoi An’s Lantern Festival. |This happened every 14th day of the month, and is when the Old Town turns off its electric lights and thousands of lanterns float along the Thu Bon River.
The town comes alive – even more than normal – as people come out to celebrate with the sounds of traditional music and everyone partying the night away. Locals and visitors release lanterns, write wishes on them, and watch them drift away.
The festival also includes street performances, traditional music, and food stalls. It’s busy but enchanting, and I recommend going early to find a good spot along the river. Experiencing the lantern festival makes Hoi An feel even more timeless.
15. Take A Nighttime Lantern Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River
Whether you can visit during the Lantern Festival or not, you can still enjoy Hoi An’s lantern tradition. And one of the most popular ways to do so is by taking a nighttime boat ride on the Thu Bon River and releasing your own lantern onto the water.
It’s a very affordable experience, and one of the most popular things to do in Hoi An. Many small boat operators offer rides for 30–60 minutes, and some even let you float your own lantern as you glide along.
There are plenty of vendors selling tickets there and then, or you can book in advance for a smoother experience. The choice is really up to you.
16. Ride a Traditional Basket Boat through the Coconut Forest
If you stay in a hostel in Hoi An, chances are you’ll end up on a basket boat at some point. A favourite activity for backpackers, this is a super fun way to explore the mangroves of the coconut forest on a traditional round boat.
The ride is fast, bouncy, and surprisingly exhilarating. You can even help a local guide catch crabs and fish before they spin you around in circles. It sounds a little bizarre, but trust me, it’s actually a lot of fun.
Even better, it’s incredibly affordable, usually costing only a couple of pounds for the whole experience. It’s a short, simple adventure that gives you a taste of local life and a memorable story to take home.
Part 4: Best Day Trips from Hoi An
Whilst there is plenty to see in Hoi An, it is also a perfect base for exploring central Vietnam. Within a short ride, you’ll find ancient ruins, stunning beaches, dramatic mountains, and the infamous golden bridge in the clouds. If you have extra time, these day trips are well worth adding to your itinerary.
17. Cycle Through Vietnam’s Countryside
One of my favourite things to do in Hoi An was to rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside. I’ve already mentioned a few places you can visit by bike from Hoi An, but you’ll find plenty few kilometres out of town. From quiet villages to rice paddies and winding paths, it won’t take you long before you feel a world away from the Old Town.
Cycling lets you go at your own pace, stop for photos, and interact with locals along the way. I loved watching farmers tending to their fields and seeing water buffalo grazing by the roadside. The fresh air and peaceful scenery make for a relaxing half-day or full-day escape.
Many local operators offer guided cycling tours combined with a basket boat ride if you prefer someone to show you the best routes, but riding solo is also easy and safe. You’ll discover small temples, bridges, and canals you might otherwise miss. By the end of the ride, you’ll feel a real connection to rural Vietnamese life.
18. Explore My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO site)
My Son Sanctuary is an impressive cluster of ancient Hindu temples set in a lush valley about an hour from Hoi An. Walking among the ruins, you can feel the history of the Champa Kingdom, which ruled central Vietnam centuries ago.
The site is especially atmospheric because many temples are partially covered in jungle, with crumbling stone walls and intricate carvings.
A guided tour helps bring the history to life, explaining the architecture, religious significance, and Champa culture. But you can easily rent a scooter or grab an Uber and visit yourself.
Visiting early in the morning is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. My Son is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why it’s both historically significant and visually stunning.
19. Discover the Marble Mountains (Da Nang)
Just a short drive from Hoi An, the Marble Mountains in Da Nang are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills filled with caves, tunnels, and pagodas. Climbing them is a rewarding experience, with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and countryside at the top.
Inside the mountains, you’ll discover hidden Buddhist sanctuaries, statues, and grottoes that feel almost magical. I spent a few hours exploring the winding paths and snapping photos of the intricate carvings and temples tucked into the rocks.
It’s an easy day trip from Hoi An, which you can do yourself on a scooter, but there are lots of local guides available if you want more historical context. The mix of natural beauty, religious sites, and adventure makes the Marble Mountains a highlight for anyone exploring central Vietnam.
20. Take a Snorkelling or Diving trip to Cham Islands
For a change of pace, head out to the Cham Islands for some snorkelling or diving. The islands are part of a protected marine park, and the waters are teeming with colourful fish and coral.
It does take about an hour to get to Cham, or you can splash a bit and opt for the quicker speedboat, which takes about 20-30 minutes. However, you’ll get to swim among the vibrant coral gardens, relax on quiet beaches, and explore small fishing villages.
The port is located quite far out of Hoi An’s old town, so there is a bit of a commute. To take the stress out of organising all the travel, you can opt for a tour which covers all the transport, including pick-up, drop-off and renting snorkel equipment.
A day trip here is a refreshing escape from Hoi An’s streets, combining adventure, nature, and a bit of culture all in one.
21. Relax at Hoi An’s Beaches (An Bang and Cua Dai)
Finally, don’t forget Hoi An’s beaches. An Bang and Cua Dai are the most popular, offering soft sand, calm waters, and plenty of beachside cafés. Unfortunately, when I visited, it was pouring rain for 2 days straight. However, I quite enjoyed my afternoons lounging in a beachside cafe, watching the stormy waters and enjoying delicious brunches.
An Bang has a slightly livelier vibe, with beach bars and restaurants, while Cua Dai feels quieter and more secluded. Both are perfect for swimming, sunbathing (in summer), or renting a bicycle to explore the coastline.
Even if you’re short on time, a quick trip to the beach is a relaxing way to end a day in Hoi An. Some hostels offer shuttles between the two, or you can easily hop in an Uber.
22. Visit Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge
Ba Na Hills is a unique hill station near Da Nang, famous for its cooler climate, French-inspired architecture, and the Golden Bridge held up by enormous stone hands.
You can take a cable car up to the top, where gardens, restaurants, and even a small amusement park await. Walking across the Golden Bridge is surreal, with stunning views of the mountains and clouds below.
It’s a full-day trip from Hoi An, and it’s worth noting that it’s become a very popular tourist destination. Don’t expect the empty, flawless scenes you often see on Instagram. Crowds are part of the experience, and you’ve kind of got to embrace it to be able to enjoy the experience. That said, it’s still an incredible piece of architecture and, for many travellers, a must-do when visiting Vietnam.
Hoi An Essentials: FAQ’s and Quick Travel Tips
How Many Days Should I Spend in Hoi An?
For most travellers, 2-3 full days in Hoi An is perfect. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, visit the markets, try local food, and take a day trip to the countryside, beaches, or nearby UNESCO sites like My Son Sanctuary.
However, I did end up extending my time here. I just really enjoyed the atmosphere, and had the flexibility in my schedule to spend some more, slower days exploring. 4-5 days worked well for me and allowed me to spend some more time outside of Hoi An’s Old Town.
What is the Best Time to Visit Hoi An?
The best time to visit is February to August, when the weather is warm, sunny, and relatively dry. May to September brings hotter temperatures and occasional heavy rain, but you can still enjoy indoor activities, cooking classes, and cafés.
September to January is the rainy season, so some outdoor plans may be affected, and those beach days may have to be put on hold.
Visiting Hoi An during the full moon lantern festival is truly magical, but it can get busy, so it’s wise to plan and book your accommodation in advance. This is especially important during Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year. Hoi An is a wonderful place to experience Tet, but both accommodation and transport fill up quickly.
To avoid stress, make sure to reserve your stay and any transfers several weeks ahead – I did not do this, and it really made the whole experience a lot more stressful than it needed to be.
How do I Get to Hoi An?
Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport, but it’s just a 30–45 minute drive from Da Nang International Airport, which connects to major Vietnamese cities and some international destinations. From Da Nang, taxis, Grab (ride-hailing app), or shuttle buses can take you straight to Hoi An.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in Vietnam, you can get buses from places such as Da Lat in the south or Phong Nha and Hanoi in the north.
How do I get around Hoi An?
The Old Town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot, and walking is the best way to soak up the atmosphere. For trips outside town, bikes or scooters are the most affordable option and give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
If you’re not comfortable driving yourself, taxis or Grab work well for shorter journeys. For longer trips, such as visiting the Golden Bridge or Marble Mountains, I’d recommend joining an organised tour. Most tours include transport, making it a stress-free and more cost-effective way to see the sights without worrying about it all yourself.
The Wrap Up: Best Things to Do in Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is a town that truly has something for everyone. From wandering the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town, tasting incredible local dishes, and learning traditional crafts, to exploring the surrounding countryside and day trips, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days.
Whether you’re a solo traveller, foodie, or adventure-seeker, Hoi An makes it easy to create your own perfect itinerary. Take your time, soak up the atmosphere, and don’t forget to enjoy the little moments like sipping egg coffee by the river or watching your handmade lantern float away.
Planning ahead will help you make the most of your visit, especially during festivals or peak travel seasons. But no matter how long you stay, Hoi An has a magic that will captivate you.
