1. Explore the Allure of Hoi An Attractions

Hoi An is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. Hoi An, a provincial city in Quang Nam province, is an important economic and geographical hub with an area of approximately 63.55 square kilometers. Hoi An is divided into two sections: the old quarter, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the rest of the city, which is located downstream of the Thu Bon River on the coastal plain. It is crucially located 28 kilometers south of Da Nang City and 50 kilometers north of Tam Ky City.

The town's significance dates back to the 16th century, where it served as a bustling trading port, welcoming merchants from all corners of the world. This has resulted in a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences in the city's architecture, making Hoi An a living museum of East Asian culture.

In 1998, Hoi An was designated as a world cultural heritage site by UNESCO, and in 2021, the World Travel Awards named it the top cultural city destination in Asia. The village has managed to hold on to its quaint character and is the perfect place for travellers looking to travel back in time.

The historic houses of Hoi An, which are adorned with brightly lit lanterns, and the lively banks of the Thu Bon River, which are decked with boats and shining candles, will leave tourists with an impression that will not easily be forgotten. Sitting by the river, watching the sunset, drinking a can of beer, and indulging in the region's culinary specialties are all components that can make a vacation perfect for travelers

1.1. Hoi An Ancient Town

The centerpiece of Hoi An attractions is undoubtedly the Ancient Town, an enchanting area recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautifully preserved town features a remarkable mix of Southeast Asian architectural styles, with old wooden houses, historic temples, and ancient pagodas lining its charming streets. Visitors can wander through lantern-lit alleys, bustling boutiques, and art galleries. The pedestrian-friendly environment enhances the experience, allowing for exploration at a leisurely pace. As the sun sets, the glow of lanterns illuminates the night, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that draws travelers from all over the globe.

1.2. Beaches of Hoi An

1.2.1. An Bang Beach

Among the top Hoi An attractions are its pristine beaches, with An Bang Beach standing out for its serene beauty. This tranquil beach offers a perfect escape from the bustling town. Visitors can indulge in various activities, such as windsurfing, swimming, or building sandcastles. The beach is also dotted with charming local eateries that entice travelers with fresh seafood and Vietnamese delicacies. Romantic strolls along the coastline at sunset reveal stunning views, making it a favorite spot for couples.

1.3. Markets and Shopping

1.3.1. Hoi An Night Market

The vibrant Hoi An Night Market is an essential experience, encapsulating the town's lively spirit. Visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere filled with colorful stalls offering local street food, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Food enthusiasts will enjoy sampling local delicacies, from traditional banh mi to delectable sweet treats. The market comes alive in the evenings, with throngs of visitors seeking to experience the local culture and taste the authentic flavors of Hoi An.

1.3.2. Handcrafted Products

Shopping in Hoi An is a delight, particularly for those interested in unique, handcrafted products. The town is famous for its tailored clothing, where visitors can have garments custom-made within a short time. Local artisans also produce intricate crafts, such as pottery and textiles, showcasing the talented craftsmanship of the area. These opportunities provide travelers with memorable keepsakes that capture the essence of Hoi An.

1.4. Cultural Experiences

1.4.1.Lantern Festival

One of the highlights of Hoi An attractions is the Lantern Festival, held on the full moon each month. This event transforms the town into a kaleidoscope of colors as thousands of lanterns illuminate the night. Visitors can participate in various activities, including releasing lanterns on the river, which symbolize hopes and wishes. The festival not only showcases the town's cultural significance but also reunites locals and tourists in celebration.

1.4.2. Cooking Classes

For those looking to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture, cooking classes offer a hands-on experience unlike any other. Participants typically start with a visit to the local market, where they learn about fresh ingredients before returning to prepare traditional dishes. Instructors guide participants through each step, ensuring an engaging and satisfying culinary adventure. These classes not only teach valuable skills but also deepen appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine.

1.5.  Entertainment

1.5.1 Vinwonders Nam Hoi An

VinWonders Nam Hoi An is a world-class amusement park in Vietnam. Located about 17 kilometers away from the center of the ancient town, this place has a unique combination of cultural values, entertainment activities, and nature exploration.

Having an extremely large scale, the park is divided into 5 large subdivisions, namely Harbor Corner, Island of Folk Culture, River Safari, Adventure Land, and Water World. Here, you get the chance to feel the ambiance of a hectic trading port of the 16th and 17th centuries, see a miniature Hoi An with lantern streets and old houses, or participate in water music shows and thrilling outdoor games. There are many things to discover here that promise to make your trip more memorable.

1.6. Nearby Attractions

Beyond Hoi An's immediate charms, several nearby attractions also merit visits. My Son Sanctuary, an ancient Hindu temple complex, provides insight into Vietnam's Cham culture and history. Tra Que Village, known for its organic vegetable farming, allows travelers to experience rural life and partake in farming activities. The Tam Thanh Village Murals feature stunning murals painted by local and international artists, offering a glimpse of creativity amidst community spirit.

1.7. Relaxation and Wellness

Travelers seeking relaxation in Hoi An will find an array of wellness options available. Many spas offer rejuvenating treatments, from traditional Vietnamese massages to holistic therapies. Relaxing by the beach or enjoying serene landscapes in lush gardens complements these wellness experiences, allowing visitors to unwind amidst their explorations.

2.The comprehensive travel guide to Hoi An, Vietnam, for your upcoming vacation

Your visit to the historic town will be less stressful and more enjoyable if you keep the following advice in mind:

2.1. When is the best time to visit Hoi An Vietnam?
 

Because of the city's consistently pleasant climate, it is possible to pay Hoi An a visit at any time of the year. In particular, the following is true for the weather in Hoi An, Vietnam, during each season:

The dry season, which spans the months of February through August: The months of February through the end of April are the most pleasant times of year to visit Hoi An. At this moment, the weather is mild and sunny, and there is a chance of very light rain. You are free to indulge in a wide variety of activities that take place outside. Between the months of May and August, there is hardly any precipitation at all. As a direct result of this, there are some days that reach temperatures that are unimaginably high. If you plan on going to Hoi An during that time of year, you should bring sunscreen or some accessories that block the sun.

During the rainy season, which begins in September and lasts until the end of January, Hoi An has consistent precipitation, which makes it challenging for tourists to navigate the city. If you plan to visit during this time of year, be sure to look at the forecast and make travel arrangements accordingly before you arrive.

3.2. How to get to and get around Hoi An?
 

The following is a list of some of the recommended modes of transportation to go to Hoi An:

The fastest method to get to Hoi An is by air, so flying there is your best bet. You can travel to Da Nang from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, and then take a bus or a cab to get to Hoi An from there. The excursion will just take you an hour and will cost you between 400,000 and 1,600,000 VND for the whole thing.

If you want to go by train, the trip will take a total of between 15 and 20 hours, and your train will make stops at either Da Nang Station or Tra Kieu Station. The fare should be between in the range of 230,000 and 2,224,000 VND, depending on the route taken and the seat type.

You have the option of traveling to Hoi An by coach from either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The cost of the trip need to be between 320,000 and 480,000 VND.

You may travel around easily and get a feel for the peace and quiet of the ancient town by using a bicycle. This is the recommended mode of transportation. Bicycles are available for rent in Hoi An for approximately 40,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) per day, and many of the city's hotels provide free bicycles for their guests.

Renting a motorbike is the most convenient way to get around Hoi An's many different areas because it enables you to get around quickly and easily. The daily rate for the rental ranges from 120,000 to 150,000 VND.

For excursions longer than 31 kilometers, the rate for a 4-seat taxi in Hoi An runs from 9,000 to 12,000 VND per kilometer, while the fare for trips less than 30 kilometers is in the range of 11,000 to 15,000 VND per kilometer.

Via cyclo: Hoi An is home to a sizable population of two-wheeled vehicles. Phan Chau Trinh or Tran Phu Street is the best location to search for a cyclo rental. Typically, the fee is somewhere around 150,000 VND for each trip and each hour.

3.3. What to eat during your trip to Hoi An?
 

Hoi An has a wide variety of cuisines and flavors that are all its own, making it one of the top 25 most appealing places in the world for food lovers. The following dishes are some of the very best in the city, and you shouldn't leave without having at least one of them.

The most well-known street meal in Hoi An is the banh mi.

Because of its distinctive flavor, "the greatest bread in the world" is frequently used to describe Banh Mi Hoi An. In a city filled with bakeries, Banh Mi Phuong stands out from the crowd because it offers more than twenty distinct fillings for bread, some of which include chicken, salad, pate, burgers, spring rolls, and even more. One loaf could cost anywhere between 20,000 and 40,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND), depending on the ingredients.

Quang noodles are a dish that epitomizes the culinary style of Hoi An.

It is stated that Quang noodles are the "soul" of Quang Nam food, much in the same way that "pho" noodles are considered to be the "soul" of Hanoi cuisine. The flavorful broth, the tender noodles made from rice flour, and the assortment of toppings, which can include chicken, BBQ pig, shrimp, or fish, are what set Quang noodles apart from other noodle dishes. A bowl of Quang noodles will run you between 15,000 and 25,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND).

Cao Lau – A delicious Hoi The flavor of a local delicacy in the historic village of Cao Lau is heavily inspired by Chinese cuisine. Golden noodles, char siu, deep-fried pork rind, bean sprouts, and a touch of sauce are the components that go into making this dish. Hoi An is the only place in the world where you can get the authentic culinary experience of sitting on your balcony with a bowl of Cao Lau and people-watching while you go about your day. The price of a bowl of Cao Lau is between 30,000 and 60,000 Vietnamese Dong.

Chicken rice is a delicious Vietnamese dish prepared in the Hoi An style.

The chicken rice from Hoi An is renowned all around the country. The light yellow sticky rice, the flavorful chicken meat, and the sweet and sour pickled salads are all dipped into a distinctive sauce, which is what makes this dish stand out from others. You may get a serving of Hoi An shredded chicken rice for about 20,000 VND, and it will make your mouth wet.

A crispy specialty from Quang Nam, banh dap is a pancake made with smashed rice.

Make sure to give banh dap a shot when you're in the Hoi An Quang Nam area. The crushed rice pancake is topped with mussels, and then it is dunked in a delectable fish sauce that has been seasoned. After being stir-fried, the mussels take on a highly juicy texture and take on a sweetness that is characteristic of shellfish. The cost might range anywhere from 15,000 to 50,000 VND per dish on average.

Try the Vietnamese pancake, known as banh xeo, for a dish that is both nutritious and delicious.

The savory flavor of fresh shrimp and meat fillings combined with the crunchiness of a traditional Vietnamese pancake typically has a mesmerizing effect on visiting tourists. When mixed, savory soy sauce and fragrant peanuts produce a sauce that is sure to please even the pickiest of consumers. A plate of banh xeo will normally run you between 10,000 and 20,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND).

3.4. Where to stay in Hoi An Vietnam?

There are quite a few hotels in the Hoi An area of Vietnam that are accessible for tourists to stay in. Many visitors choose to stay at one of the Vinpearl hotels or resorts in order to experience the highest level of comfort and to have easy access to the attractions located in Hoi An.

The magnificent Cua Dai beach, where the Vinpearl Resort & Spa Hoi An is situated, is only a ten-minute ride away from the Old Town. To be more specific, the resort provides guests with opulent hotel rooms and villas featuring lovely architecture inspired by the Mediterranean, in addition to a vast array of luxurious services including a spa, tennis court, swimming pool, and other similar amenities.

The Vinpearl hotel and resort system in Hoi An also encompasses the Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, which is located approximately 20 minutes outside of Hoi An Old Town. It has a swimming pool that overflows into the ocean, which is something that guests find very impressive. In addition, from this location, you will have easy access to the VinWonders Nam Hoi An amusement park, the River Safari, the international level 18-hole golf course Vinpearl Golf Nam Hoi An, and many other attractions.

There are also a number of other famous hotel options in Hoi An that offer visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of the old town such as:

Mgallery Hoi An: This hotel is a wonderful blend of traditional Vietnamese architecture and modern amenities. The staff is attentive and the location is unbeatable. The rooms are spacious, clean and beautifully decorated. The pool is a great place to relax after a day of exploring the town.

Anantara Hoi An: This hotel is an oasis in the heart of Hoi An. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the rooms are luxurious and comfortable. The hotel is set in a beautiful garden and the pool is a great place to relax. The location is perfect for exploring the town and the surrounding countryside.

Wyndham Royal Hoi An: This hotel is a great choice for those who want to be close to the beach. The rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The pool is beautiful and the beach is just a short walk away. The hotel also has a great restaurant and bar.

Bellerive Hoi An: This hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of Hoi An. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The location is perfect for exploring the town and the surrounding countryside. The breakfast is delicious and the pool is a great place to relax.

3. Recent Updates on Hoi An Attractions

As of 2025, Hoi An continues to enhance its offerings for visitors. New guided tours provide fresh perspectives on the town's history and culture, while revamped facilities ensure a comfortable experience. Efforts to promote sustainable tourism are evident, reflecting Hoi An’s commitment to preserving its heritage while welcoming travelers. Outbound agents can capitalize on these developments, presenting Hoi An as a revitalized destination for both new and returning visitors.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Hoi An?

The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to May when the weather is warm and dry.

How do I get to Hoi An?

Hoi An can be accessed via Da Nang Airport, which is about 30 kilometers away, followed by a taxi or shuttle service.

Is Hoi An family-friendly?

Yes, Hoi An offers numerous activities suitable for families, including beach outings, cultural experiences, and cooking classes.