Top 15 Best Things to Do in Hoi An: Culture, Food & Adventure

March 3, 2025
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With over 400 years of history, Hoi An Ancient Town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultures intertwine to create a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere. Discover the 15 best things to do in Hoi An, whether it’s wandering through ancient houses, savoring Cao Lau noodles, or simply admiring the dazzling lanterns at night – Hoi An always has something special waiting for you.

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Strolling through Hoi An ancient town

Hoi An is an ancient town steeped in history and culture. Streets like Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and Bach Dang preserve architectural masterpieces that reflect the fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences. As you walk through the town on your Hoi An travel journey, you’ll find centuries-old houses with moss-covered tiled roofs, faded yellow walls aged by time, and intricately carved wooden doors, all creating a nostalgic yet captivating atmosphere.

Hoi An is an ancient town steeped in history and culture

Must-visit landmarks in Hoi An ancient town:

Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau Nhat Ban) – The iconic symbol of Hoi An, this ancient bridge spans the Hoai River and showcases a harmonious blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architecture.
Tan Ky Old House (Nha co Tan Ky) – Over 200 years old, this historic home has welcomed numerous heads of state and remains a prime example of traditional Vietnamese merchant architecture.
Fukien Assembly Hall (Hoi quan Phuc Kien) – A significant structure built by the Chinese community, dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau, the revered sea goddess who protects fishermen and merchants.

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The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place on the 14th night of each lunar month, when the entire Ancient Town is immersed in the shimmering glow of thousands of colorful lanterns. The grandest celebration occurs on the Full Moon of the first lunar month (Tet Nguyen Tieu), drawing thousands of visitors to admire the mystical nighttime beauty of the ancient town. On this special occasion, Hoi An turns off all electric lights, leaving only the radiance of lanterns, creating a scene that is both nostalgic and romantic.

Participating in the festival, visitors can personally release floating lanterns on the Hoai River, wishing for peace and good fortune. The small lanterns drifting with the current form a glimmering trail of light, adding to the tranquil and enchanting ambiance.

Travel Tips

Best time to visit: Arrive between 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM, when the town is still relatively quiet, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Top photo spots: Capture stunning images at the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Hoai Riverbank, the Chua Cau area, or along Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.
Avoid peak crowds: To prevent overcrowding, plan your visit during the less busy months (March – May or September – November).

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The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place on the 14th night of each lunar month

Experience Hoi An’s local cuisine

Hoi An’s cuisine is not only renowned for its unique flavors but also for its deep cultural significance. As you wander through the Ancient Town, you’ll easily spot street vendors, roadside eateries and family-run restaurants serving famous local delicacies.

One of the most iconic dishes is Cao Lau, a traditional noodle dish featuring golden chewy noodles, tender char siu pork, crispy pork cracklings, and fresh herbs. The secret behind its distinctive taste lies in the water drawn from ancient Cham wells, giving the noodles their signature texture.

Aside from Cao Lau, visitors must try Hoi An’s Banh Mi, which has been praised by CNN and various international food magazines as one of the best sandwiches in the world. Other local specialties that shouldn’t be missed include Hoi An chicken rice, crispy wontons, and white rose dumplings.

Recommended restaurants and food stalls in Hoi An

Dish Name	Restaurant Name	Address
Cao Lau	Cao Lau Thanh	26 Thai Phien, Hoi An
	Cao Lau Ba Be	19 Tran Phu, Hoi An
	Cao Lau Trung Bac	87 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Hoi An Banh Mi	Banh Mi Phuong	2B Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An
	Banh Mi Madam Khanh (The Banh Mi Queen)	115 Tran Cao Van, Hoi An
	Banh Mi Lanh	430 Cua Dai, Hoi An
Hoi An Chicken Rice	Com Ga Ba Buoi	22 Phan Chu Trinh, Hoi An
	Com Ga Nga	8 Phan Chu Trinh, Hoi An
	Com Ga Ty	27 Phan Chu Trinh, Hoi An
Other Specialties	Banh Vac (White Rose) – White Rose Restaurant	533 Hai Ba Trung, Hoi An
	Che Thap Cam Co Nga	36 Bach Dang, Hoi An
	Banh Xeo Gieng Ba Le	51 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An

Experience Hoi An’s local cuisine

Enjoying coffee at local cafés

Hoi An is home to many charming coffee shops designed with balconies and rooftop terraces, offering the perfect setting to sip a fragrant cup of coffee while admiring the peaceful streets below. The sight of moss-covered ancient rooftops, weathered yellow walls, and glowing lanterns at night creates an unforgettable nostalgic ambiance.

Must-Try Drinks in Hoi An

Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Ca phe sua da) – Strong Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk, served over ice.
Coconut Coffee (Ca phe dua) – A creamy, refreshing blend of coffee and coconut milk.
Cold Brew – Smooth, slow-brewed coffee with a bold yet refreshing taste.
Mot Herbal Tea (Tra thao moc Mot) – A traditional herbal tea infused with lemongrass and lime.

Best coffee shops in Hoi An

Café Name	Key Features	Address
Faifo Coffee	Rooftop café with a panoramic view of the Ancient Town.	130 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Hoi An Roastery Espresso & Coffee House	Famous coffee chain serving freshly roasted coffee.	84 Tran Cao Van, Hoi An
Reaching Out Tea House	A silent tea & coffee house, offering a peaceful experience.	131 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Sound of Silence Coffee	A minimalist, quiet café by An Bang Beach.	40 Nguyen Phan Vinh, Hoi An

Hoi An is home to many charming coffee shops designed with balconies and rooftop terraces

Take a boat ride on the Hoai River

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Hoi An is taking a boat ride on the Hoai River at night. As darkness falls, the river sparkles with the reflection of hundreds of lanterns hanging along both banks. Sitting in a small wooden boat, visitors can drift along the gentle waters, listen to stories about the ancient town from the boatmen, and soak in the tranquil and romantic atmosphere.

The boat rental fee ranges from 50,000 – 150,000 VND, depending on the number of passengers and ride duration. Each boat can accommodate 2 – 4 people, with a journey lasting about 20 – 30 minutes.

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Hoi An is taking a boat ride on the Hoai River

Tips for a Perfect Boat Ride

Negotiate the price beforehand for a fair deal.
Best time to go: Between 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM, when the lanterns are lit but the town isn’t too crowded.
Best departure points: Near the Japanese Covered Bridge or along the Hoai Riverbank for the most scenic views.

Try the instant tailoring services

Hoi An is not only famous for its charming ancient town and delicious cuisine but also recognized as the “Tailoring Capital” of Vietnam. With same-day tailoring services (from 4 to 24 hours), visitors can get custom-made outfits, especially Ao Dai (Vietnamese traditional dress), that fit perfectly and reflect their personal style—all within their trip!

Simple tailoring process in Hoi An

Choose fabric and design – Browse available samples or bring your own design.
Take measurements – Skilled tailors will take precise measurements to ensure the best fit.
Fitting and adjustments – Return in a few hours to try on the outfit and request modifications if needed.
Receive the final product – Your custom-made outfit will be ready in no time!

Best tailor shops in Hoi An

Tailor Shop	Key Features	Address
Yaly Couture	High-quality craftsmanship, well-known brand.	358 Nguyen Duy Hieu, Hoi An
Bebe Tailor	Professional service, wide variety of designs.	40 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An
Kimmy Tailor	Diverse fabric selection, reasonable prices.	70 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An
A Dong Silk	Modern styles, exquisite tailoring.	62 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An

Try the instant tailoring services

Relax on Hoi An’s beautiful beaches

Just 4 – 7 km from the Ancient Town, Hoi An’s beaches are the perfect getaway for those looking to relax, sunbathe, enjoy fresh seafood, or take part in water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

For the best experience, visit the beach in the early morning (6:00 – 9:00 AM) to catch the sunrise or in the late afternoon (4:00 – 6:00 PM) to avoid the intense midday sun. If you’re planning a leisurely vacation, consider staying at a beachfront hotel for easy access to stunning ocean views and a peaceful retreat.

Relax on Hoi An’s beautiful beaches

Top beaches in Hoi An

An Bang Beach – Recognized by CNN as one of the world’s 50 most beautiful beaches, this beach is famous for its pristine beauty, clear blue water and soft white sand.
Cua Dai Beach – Located 5 km from the Ancient Town, this is one of Central Vietnam’s most stunning beaches, featuring long white sand shores, crystal-clear waters, and gentle waves. It’s an ideal spot for watching the sunrise, taking a beach walk, or relaxing under coconut trees.
Ha My Beach – A lesser-known but serene beach with blue waters, fine sand, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s the perfect escape for those wanting to get away from the crowds and immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

Visit ancient houses

Hoi An is home to centuries-old houses that preserve the legacy of its once bustling international trading port. These historic buildings showcase a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture, featuring yin-yang tiled roofs, elaborately carved wooden pillars, and spacious open courtyards.

Most notable ancient houses in Hoi An

Ancient House	Key Features	Address
Duc An Ancient House	Former residence of Phan Chu Trinh, an influential nationalist.	129 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Diep Dong Nguyen Ancient House	Features unique architecture and a collection of rare antiques.	80 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An
Thai Phien Ancient House	One of the oldest houses in Hoi An, over 250 years old.	22B Le Loi, Hoi An

Visit ancient houses

Snorkeling and scuba diving at Cu Lao Cham

Located 15 km from Hoi An, Cu Lao Cham is one of the best destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving. With crystal-clear waters and a diverse marine ecosystem, the area boasts over 300 species of vibrant coral reefs and numerous colorful tropical fish. Visitors can choose between snorkeling (shallow diving) or scuba diving (deep diving with oxygen tanks) to explore the breathtaking underwater world.

Popular diving spots such as Hon Dai, Hon Mo, and Bai Xep offer expansive coral reefs and abundant marine life, making them perfect for an unforgettable diving experience. The price for diving tours in Cu Lao Cham ranges from 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND, depending on the type of dive and duration. This is a must-try activity for nature lovers and those eager to discover the wonders of the ocean.

Best time for diving in Cu Lao Cham

Ideal season: March – September, when the sea is calm, water is clear, and visibility is at its best.
Avoid the rainy season: October – February, as rough seas can affect diving experiences.
Pro tip: Book your tour 1 – 2 days in advance to secure your spot and receive guidance from professional instructors.

Snorkeling and scuba diving at Cu Lao Cham

Experience traditional folk games

Hoi An attracts visitors not only with its ancient beauty but also with its traditional folk games, which take place every evening in the Ancient Town and along the Hoai River. One of the most exciting activities is Bai Choi singing, where visitors can immerse themselves in folk melodies and participate in a thrilling card-drawing game. This is not just a game of luck but also an art form, helping players understand Central Vietnam’s culture.

Besides Bai Choi, visitors can experience Clay Pot Breaking (Đap Nieu Đat), Tug of War (Keo Co), and Bamboo Dance (Nhay Sap), games familiar to many generations of Vietnamese people.

Experience traditional folk games

Cycling through the countryside

Cycling along the lush green countryside roads is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Hoi An. The journey takes visitors through vast rice fields, swaying coconut palms, and peaceful villages, where the traditional way of life is still well preserved.

Best destinations for a cycling trip

Tra Que Vegetable Village – Witness local farmers tending their lush gardens and try your hand at organic farming methods.
Bay Mau Coconut Forest – Explore the unique water palm ecosystem by paddling through the forest in a traditional basket boat.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village – Discover Hoi An’s traditional woodworking craft and admire intricately carved wooden products.

You can rent a bicycle in the Ancient Town for 30,000 – 50,000 VND per day or join a guided cycling tour for a more immersive experience.

Cycling through the countryside

Learn to make traditional lanterns

Hoi An’s colorful lanterns are an iconic symbol of the town, adorning every street and creating a magical atmosphere in the Ancient Town. Taking a lantern-making workshop is a fantastic way to learn about this traditional handicraft and create a unique souvenir of your own. In a local workshop, visitors are guided through each step of the process, from bending bamboo frames and covering them with silk fabric to decorating intricate patterns, making for a fun and creative experience.

Best lantern-making workshops in Hoi An

Workshop Name	Notable Features	Address
Hoi An Lantern Workshop	Friendly space, compact classroom, easy to practice	310 Nguyen Duy Hieu, Cam Chau, Hoi An
Lantern Making Class with Lynn	Detailed instructions, suitable for families and children	8/6 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
Lantern Making Class	Traditional workshop with many years of experience	08 Duong D. Tran Cao Van, Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An
Hoa Mai Lantern Shop	Fun class, lantern can be taken home as a gift	10/26 Bach Dang Street, Old Town, Hoi An

Taking a lantern-making workshop is a fantastic way to learn about this traditional handicraft and create a unique souvenir of your own

Take a cooking class with a local chef

Joining a cooking class is a perfect way for visitors to explore Hoi An’s cuisine and learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of local chefs. Most classes begin with a market tour, where participants hand-pick fresh ingredients and discover the essential spices used in Central Vietnamese cuisine. After that, with the step-by-step instructions from the chef, guests will prepare Hoi An’s signature dishes such as Cao Lau, Banh Xeo, Mi Quang, and Banana Blossom Salad.

Recommended Cooking Classes in Hoi An

Cooking Class	Key Features	Address
Red Bridge Cooking School	Includes a market tour and boat ride to the riverside cooking venue.	Thon 4, Cam Thanh, Hoi An
Tra Que Vegetable Village Cooking Class	Combines cooking with organic farming at Tra Que Village.	Tra Que Vegetable Village, Hoi An
Vy’s Market Cooking Class	Professional setup, teaches many signature Hoi An dishes.	3 Nguyen Hoang, Hoi An
My Grandma’s Home Cooking	A homestyle cooking experience in a warm, traditional setting.	61 Ngo Quyen, Islet

Take a cooking class with a local chef

Watch the Hoi An Memories Show

Hoi An Memories is one of the most spectacular real-life performances in Vietnam, bringing to life 400 years of Hoi An’s history through music, dance, and modern stage lighting. Featuring nearly 500 performers, the show takes the audience on a journey through Hoi An’s past—from its humble beginnings as a fishing village, its golden era as a bustling international trading port, to the vibrant town it is today.

With a 25,000 m² outdoor stage and a world-class sound and lighting system, the show offers a visually stunning experience. Some of the most captivating performances include Princess Huyen Tran’s royal wedding, merchant ships in the ancient port, and a romantic love story along the Hoai River—all immersing the audience in the enchanting atmosphere of old Hoi An.

The show offers two types of tickets: Standard (~600,000 VND per person) and VIP (~1,200,000 VND per person). The performance lasts approximately 60 minutes and usually starts at 8:00 PM every evening at Hoi An Memories Land – Cam Nam Island, Hoi An. This is truly an unmissable experience when visiting Hoi An!

Hoi An Memories is one of the most spectacular real-life performances in Vietnam

Stay at a 5-star luxury hotel

If you’re looking for a premium stay in Hoi An, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery is an exceptional choice. Inspired by the historic love story between Sotaro Araki and Princess Ngoc Hoa, the hotel blends luxurious comfort with a unique Vietnamese-Japanese cultural experience.

Grand Deluxe

Extending the same comfort and facilities as Deluxe rooms, Grand Deluxe tops it up by adding a romantic balcony which opens up the view to the local area or the river even more.

With 187 elegantly decorated rooms and suites, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery offers world-class services and amenities to elevate your stay:

Exclusive facilities & dining options

Wakaku (Japanese Restaurant) – Offers 5-star quality dishes at affordable prices.
Faifo Café – Serves international and Vietnamese cuisine with an open kitchen buffet concept.
The Deck – The highest rooftop bar in Hoi An, offering cocktails with a panoramic city view.
River Bar – A poolside bar with relaxing ambiance, creative cocktails, and local drinks.
The Attic Bar – A premium lounge with breathtaking views of the Ancient Town and Thu Bon River.
Woosah Spa – A wellness retreat offering rejuvenating treatments for ultimate relaxation.
Executive Lounge – Located on the 8th floor, this exclusive lounge is reserved for guests staying in Royal Deluxe, Deluxe Suite, and 2-Bedroom Suites, providing spectacular river and city views.

Stay at a 5-star luxury hotel

Cultural & experiential activities

The hotel also organizes unique local experiences, such as: Vietnamese coffee-making classes, Calligraphy workshops, Fan painting and lantern-making classes, Traditional mask-painting sessions. These hands-on activities allow visitors to connect with Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage in a truly memorable way.

We hope this article has given you exciting ideas to explore Hoi An to the fullest. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been here many times before, Hoi An always has something new to offer. Start planning your trip today and enjoy an unforgettable journey in this heritage city.

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