Things to know about Hoi An
Located on the north bank of the Thu Bon River, Hoi An is an ancient town in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam. It is located more than 30 kilometers from Da Nang City and 122 kilometers from Hue City and 795 kilometers from Ha Noi. It is known for its well-preserved ancient town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The town is characterized by its narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and colorful lanterns.
Best time to visit Hoi An
The weather is beautiful in every season. However, the best time to visit the ancient town is from February to April.
February to April: Ideal time. The early spring weather is cool, the sun is mild, and there is little rain.
May to August: The weather is always sunny and no rain during the summer months. However, some days can be quite hot, which can be uncomfortable.
September to January: Long periods of rain. You should check the weather forecast and carefully consider your plans before visiting
How to get to Hoi An
Hoi An is only 30km from Da Nang. Most of the time, people come to Da Nang Airport and then go to Hoi An.
Airport shuttle bus: The airport shuttle bus is a convenient and affordable option. The bus runs every 30 minutes and costs 20,000 VND per person.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available at Da Nang Airport. The fare is around 250,000 VND per trip.
What to do in Hoi An
Release Lantern at Hoai river: Drift down the Thu Bon River at night on a traditional Hoi An boat, illuminated by the soft glow of Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Your journey includes a ticket for a beautiful paper lantern, which you can light and gently release onto the water. As your lantern floats downstream, make a wish and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Hoi An as the stars twinkle above. Book HERE
Explore the Old Town of Hoi An: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. It is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, including narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and colorful lanterns.
For a contrasting cultural experience in Hoi An, choose between two captivating shows. The Teh Dar Show offers a thrilling glimpse into the Central Highlands with daring acrobatics, bamboo cirque performances, and live music on traditional instruments. In contrast, the Hoi An Memories Show takes you on a grand, historical journey through the town’s development, featuring hundreds of performers and stunning visual effects on a large outdoor stage. Book The Teh Dar Show and Hoi An Memories Show
Hands-on cooking class: Many classes begin with a lively trip to the local market, where you’ll choose fresh ingredients and gain insights into Vietnamese produce. Back in the kitchen, under the guidance of friendly chefs, you’ll learn authentic techniques for crafting delicious dishes specific to Hoi An, like the iconic Cao Lau noodles or White Rose dumplings. As you cook and share stories, savor the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your Vietnamese feast. You can book HERE or HERE.
Lantern-making class: Craft your beautiful lantern, a symbol of good luck and happiness in Vietnamese culture. Skilled instructors will guide you through the process, from assembling the delicate bamboo frame to stretching vibrant silk fabric over it. Choose from an array of colors and patterns to personalize your lantern, making it a one-of-a-kind memento of your Hoi An experience. Book HERE
Experience Tra Que Vegetable Village: Tra Que Vegetable Village is a famous vegetable-growing village located in Cam Ha commune, about 3 kilometers from the center of Hoi An. The village is known for its fertile soil and its wide variety of vegetables, including leafy greens, herbs, and spices. You can learn about the traditional methods of vegetable farming, create ceramic products at Thanh Ha Pottery Village, and learn about traditional mat weaving. Book HERE
Enjoy the seat at Cu Lao Cham: This island escape near Hoi An offers pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. Dive, snorkel vibrant reefs, or explore historical sites. Relax, explore, unwind. Book HERE
Take a Countryside Bike tour: Dive into local life, trying your hand at net fishing and browsing bamboo crafts. After a paddling lesson in a traditional boat, explore the unique water coconut forest. The excitement continues with a lively performance showcasing basket boat racing, crab fishing demonstrations, and even a basketboat show! You’ll also have the chance to meet residents and savor delicious Vietnamese snacks like spring rolls and pancakes before returning to Hoi An with unforgettable memories. Book HERE
What to eat in Hoi An
Hoi An is a foodie’s paradise. From morning to night, the streets are filled with restaurants and food stalls serving a wide variety of delicious food.
Cao lầu is a traditional Vietnamese dish made with rice noodles, pork, vegetables, and a special sauce made from shrimp paste, garlic, and chili peppers. Cao lầu is typically served with a side of fresh herbs and lime wedges.
Address: Hoi An Trung Bac Cao Lau Restaurant | Address: 87 Tran Phu Street
Mi Quang is a traditional Vietnamese dish that originated in the Quang Nam province of Vietnam. It is made with rice noodles, pork, vegetables, and a special sauce made from shrimp paste, garlic, and chili peppers. Mi Quang is typically served with a side of fresh herbs and lime wedges.
Address: Mi Quang Di Hat | Address: 4 Phan Chu Trinh Street
Bánh mì “bread” is a popular Vietnamese street food. It’s a baguette filled with a variety of savory ingredients, creating a delicious and satisfying combination. Traditionally, the fillings might include some combination of meats like pork, pate, or sausage, pickled vegetables like carrot and daikon, fresh herbs like cilantro, and a special sauce. The bread itself is often crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, while the fillings offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Address:
Madam Khanh: 115 Trần Cao Vân
Phuong Bread: 2b Phan Chu Trinh
Chicken rice: This dish features fluffy steamed rice alongside tender poached chicken, often accompanied by flavorful dipping sauces, fresh greens like rau ram (Vietnamese coriander), and sometimes shredded green papaya for a refreshing crunch.
Cơm gà bà Buội (Chicken rice Aunt Buoi) : 22 Phan Châu Trinh
Herbal drink: a delightful concoction brewed with a blend of local herbs and spices. Lemongrass and ginger often form the base, offering a citrusy and invigorating start, while calming ingredients like jasmine and chrysanthemum flowers add a touch of floral sweetness.
Address: Mót Hội An| 150 Trần Phú
Where to stay in Hoi An
Accommodation services in Hoi An are developed and have many choices from hotels, and motels to homestays. Here is my curated list:
Thalia Boutique Hotel Hoian, Anio Boutique Hotel Hoi-An, Son Hoi-An Boutique Hotel & Spa, Shining Riverside Hoi-An Boutique and Spa
More affordable choices: Thuan Hue Boutique Hotel – Near Vinpearl Nam Hoi-An, Hoi-An Silverbell Villa, Silkian Hoian Boutique Hotel & Spa