Best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An Town is a remarkably well-maintained commercial hub that dates back to the 15th to 19th centuries. It is renowned as one of the most charming cities in Vietnam, and possibly even in all of Southeast Asia. The town boasts an abundance of picturesque ancient homes, temples, and coffee shops. It is a popular destination for purchasing handcrafted garments. However, even if shopping is not on your agenda, Hoi An offers a tranquil escape from the bustling atmosphere of the rest of the country. Plus, the beach is just a short 20-minute bike ride away from the city.

Best month to visit Hoi An

The best month to visit Hoi An, Vietnam, is generally considered to be between February and April when the weather is pleasant and mild. During this time, the temperatures are not too hot and there is less chance of rainfall. Additionally, the months of February and March are also optimal for witnessing the famous Hoi An Lantern Festival, which takes place during the full moon. However, it’s worth noting that Hoi An can be visited year-round, and each season offers a different experience.

Top 10 things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

1. Explore the Ancient Town: Take a leisurely stroll around the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town, with its well-preserved 15th-century buildings, traditional houses, temples, and narrow streets.

2. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge: Admire the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, one of Hoi An’s most famous landmarks. The bridge, built in the 18th century, features beautiful architecture and is a perfect spot for photos.

3. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River: Enjoy a peaceful boat trip along the Thu Bon River, where you can witness local life and stunning scenery.

4. Attend a Lantern Festival: Experience the enchanting Lantern Festival held in Hoi An on the full moon night of each month. The town becomes illuminated with colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.

5. Explore the countryside by bicycle: Rent a bicycle and venture into the rural countryside surrounding Hoi An. Explore the rice paddies, traditional villages, and meet friendly locals.

6. Visit the Tra Que Herb Village: Take a tour of Tra Que Herb Village, where you can learn about traditional farming methods and even try your hand at planting and harvesting herbs.

7. Take a cooking class: Hoi An is famous for its food, so why not join a cooking class and learn how to prepare delicious Vietnamese dishes?

8. Enjoy the beaches: Relax and soak up the sun on Hoi An’s beautiful beaches, such as An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach.

9. Explore the Cham Islands: Take a day trip to the Cham Islands, a group of picturesque islands located off the coast of Hoi An. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches.

10. Shop for tailor-made clothing: Hoi An is known for its skilled tailors, so take advantage of the opportunity to have custom-made clothes or shoes created just for you.

Day trips from Hoi An

There are several day trips you can take from Hoi An. Here are some popular options:

1. My Son Sanctuary: Located about 40 kilometers from Hoi An, My Son is an ancient temple complex built by the Champa civilization. The site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a glimpse into the rich history of this region.

2. Hue: The former imperial city, Hue, is located approximately 140 kilometers from Hoi An. It offers a unique blend of historical and cultural attractions, including the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang.

3. Da Nang: Just a short distance from Hoi An, Da Nang is another popular day trip destination. It is home to beautiful beaches, the famous Dragon Bridge, the Marble Mountains, and the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

4. Cham Islands: A group of eight small islands, the Cham Islands are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offer stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a boat tour from Hoi An to explore the islands and engage in snorkeling or diving activities.

5. Hai Van Pass: Known as one of the most scenic routes in Vietnam, the Hai Van Pass connects Hoi An and Hue. Rent a motorbike or join a tour to enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains, coastline, and lush greenery along this route.

6. Ba Na Hills: Located near Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is a hill station and resort that offers beautiful landscapes, French-inspired architecture, and various attractions such as the Golden Bridge, cable car rides, and a Fantasy Park.

Remember to check the availability of tours or transportation options when planning your day trips from Hoi An, as it may vary depending on the season and local conditions.

How to get around Hoi An

There are several ways to get around Hoi An, a popular tourist destination in Vietnam. Here are some options:

1. Walking: Hoi An’s Old Town is a pedestrian-only area, which means walking is the best way to explore its charming streets and alleys. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.

2. Cycling: Renting a bicycle is a popular way to get around Hoi An. There are many rental shops in town, and you can easily explore the surrounding countryside or the beach areas. Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

3. Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is a convenient option if you want to explore areas outside of the city center, such as the nearby beaches or the countryside. However, be cautious while driving, as the traffic can be chaotic.

4. Taxi/Grab: Taxis are readily available in Hoi An, and ride-hailing services like Grab are also popular. They offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel around the city and to nearby destinations. Make sure to negotiate or use the meter before getting in the taxi.

5. Boat: Hoi An is situated along the Thu Bon River, and taking a boat ride can be a unique way to navigate through the city. You can hire a boat for a river tour or for transportation to nearby attractions like the islands or the rural villages.

Remember to stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and be cautious while traveling in Hoi An. Enjoy your time exploring the beautiful city!