Hoi An – A Guide to Vietnam’s Most Charming Ancient Town

Hoi An – Vietnam’s Most Charming Ancient Town

Located on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town that feels like a step back in time. Known for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, tailor shops, and riverside charm, Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most beloved travel destinations.

In this Hoi An travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Hoi An, when to visit, and top travel tips for an unforgettable experience.

Top Things to Do in Hoi An

1. Explore the Ancient Town – A Walk Through History

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Hoi An’s Ancient Town is the heart of the city, filled with beautifully preserved buildings, temples, and bridges dating back to the 15th century. The town is a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, making it a truly unique place to explore.

Must-Visit Sites in Hoi An’s Ancient Town:

• Japanese Covered Bridge – The most famous landmark, built in the 16th century.
• Tan Ky Old House – A well-preserved merchant house showcasing Hoi An’s history.
• Phuc Kien Assembly Hall – A stunning Chinese temple with intricate architecture.
• Hoi An Market – A great place to experience local life and try street food.

Travel Tip: Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a pedestrian-only area during certain hours, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

2. Attend the Hoi An Lantern Festival – A Magical Experience

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The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most magical experiences in Vietnam. Held every full moon, the town lights up with thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a breathtaking atmosphere.

What to Expect at the Lantern Festival:

• Lantern-lit streets and rivers – A mesmerizing view of floating lanterns on the Thu Bon River.
• Traditional performances – Enjoy folk music, lion dances, and cultural shows.
• Street food and night market – Try delicious Hoi An street food while enjoying the festive vibe.

Best Time to Experience: The 15th day of each lunar month when the full moon rises.

Travel Tip: Buy a paper lantern and release it onto the river for good luck!

3. Get Custom-Made Clothes – Hoi An’s Famous Tailors

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Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops, where you can get custom-made suits, dresses, and shoes at affordable prices. The town has hundreds of tailor shops, offering high-quality fabrics and fast service (sometimes in less than 24 hours!).

Recommended Tailors in Hoi An:

• Yaly Couture – One of the most reputable high-end tailors.
• BeBe Tailor – Great for high-quality suits and dresses.
• Kimmy Tailor – Offers a wide range of fabric choices and styles.

Travel Tip: Bring a picture of your desired design or choose their catalogs for a personalized outfit.

4. Try Local Food – A Culinary Delight

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Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise, offering unique dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam.

Must-Try Dishes in Hoi An:

• Cao Lau – A signature noodle dish made with thick noodles, pork, and fresh herbs, only found in Hoi An.
• White Rose Dumplings – Steamed dumplings filled with shrimp, shaped like delicate white roses.
• Banh Mi Hoi An – Vietnamese baguette sandwich, made famous by Anthony Bourdain’s visit to Banh Mi Phuong.
• Com Ga (Chicken Rice) – A fragrant dish of turmeric rice topped with shredded chicken and herbs.

Best Places to Eat in Hoi An:

• Banh Mi Phuong – The best place to try Banh Mi.
• Morning Glory Restaurant – Serves authentic Hoi An specialties.
• Ba Buoi Chicken Rice – Famous for its delicious Com Ga.

Travel Tip: Join a Hoi An food tour to sample multiple dishes in one night!

5. Relax at An Bang Beach – A Hidden Gem Near Hoi An

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If you’re looking for some relaxation, An Bang Beach is just 10 minutes Hoi An. This pristine white sand beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Best Beach Activities:

• Rent a beach chair and relax under the palm trees.
• Try fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
• Enjoy water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful sunset views.

Best Time to Visit Hoi An

✔ February to May is the best time to visit Hoi An for cool, dry weather and beautiful scenery.

Seasonal Guide:

• February – May: Best weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
• June – August: Hotter but great for beach activities.
• September – January: Rainy season, but fewer tourists.

Travel Tip: Visit in March or April for the perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

Where to Stay in Hoi An

Hoi An offers a wide range of accommodations, luxury resorts to budget hostels.

Recommended Hotels in Hoi An:

• Luxury: Four Seasons The Nam Hai – A stunning beachfront resort.
• Mid-Range: Little Riverside Hoi An – A beautiful boutique hotel by the river.
• Budget: Tribee Hostel – A great option for backpackers.

Travel Tip: Many hotels offer free bicycles, making it easy to explore the town.

Final Thoughts

Hoi An is one of the most charming destinations in Vietnam, offering a mix of history, culture, food, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the Ancient Town, attending the Lantern Festival, getting custom-made clothes, or relaxing at the beach, this town has something for everyone.

By following this Hoi An travel guide, you’ll have all the information you need for an unforgettable trip. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the magic of Hoi An!