Hoi An 3 days 2 nights trip with a complete guide from itinerary to costs

April 25, 2025
11:32 am
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Hoi An is not only renowned for its ancient beauty but also as a fantastic destination to experience cultural, culinary, and natural activities. With the 3-days 2-nights itinerary at Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery, you’ll have the chance to explore the Ancient Town, visit historical landmarks, and enjoy the beauty of the beaches.

Table of Contents

Best season for 3 days 2 nights Hoi An travel itinerary

The ideal time to take a 3 day 2 night trip to Hoi An is during the dry season, especially from February to the end of April. During this period, the weather is mild, with little rain and plenty of sunshine—perfect for sightseeing and beach activities.

Dry season (February to August):

From February to April, Hoi An enjoys its most pleasant weather—cool temperatures, gentle sunshine, and almost no rain. This is the perfect time for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying various outdoor activities.
From May to August, Hoi An still enjoys plenty of sunshine and very little rain, but temperatures can get quite hot at midday. It’s best to wear a hat, apply sunscreen and bring water to stay refreshed and avoid heat exhaustion.

Detailed itinerary for a 3 days 2 nights trip to Hoi An

With 3 days and 2 nights in Hoi An, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to discover the city’s top attractions—from the charming Old Town and historical sites to the pristine beaches, the untouched nature of Cu Lao Cham, and the peaceful Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

Day 1: Explore Hoi An ancient town and its sparkling night market

Morning: Step into the Old Town and begin your heritage journey

After arriving in Hoi An and dropping off your luggage at the hotel, start your first day with a journey back in time through the historic Old Town—once a bustling international trading port centuries ago.

Must-visit places in the morning include:

Japanese Covered Bridge: A symbol of Hoi An with its curved tiled roof, moss-covered surface, and unique design spanning a small canal that winds through the old quarter.
Tan Ky Old House and Tran Family Chapel: Traditional wooden homes that reflect a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French architectural styles.
Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: A temple dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess, featuring vibrant colors, intricate dragon and phoenix carvings, and a favorite check-in spot for many travelers.

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall — Phuc Kien Assembly Hal

Afternoon: Enjoy Central Vietnam specialties in the heart of Hoi An

After sightseeing, it’s time to stop at one of the famous local eateries to savor the unique flavors of Hoi An:

Cao Lau Thanh: 26 Thai Phien, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Ba Buoi Chicken Rice: 22 Phan Chau Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Phuong’s Banh Mi: 2B Phan Chau Trinh, Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam

Don’t forget to visit Mot Herbal Tea House in Hoi An, where you can enjoy a refreshing lemongrass tea beautifully decorated with fresh lotus petals.

Afternoon: Slow down and feel the heartbeat of the Ancient Town

From 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM, the Old Town becomes more peaceful, offering the perfect opportunity to slow down and fully experience its beauty. You can:

Rent a bicycle and cycle around the narrow streets, admiring the yellow-walled houses and vibrant bougainvillea.
Visit Faifo Coffee, head up to the rooftop to enjoy a panoramic view of the red-tiled rooftops and the tranquil life below.
Take a stroll to Hoi An Market, where you can pick up traditional lanterns, ceramics, hand-embroidered bags, or local sweets as souvenirs.

Each step you take here feels like traveling back decades, to a time when life moved slowly and was filled with the sounds of time.

Evening: Lanterns glow and the vibrant Hoi An Night Market

As night falls, the ancient town of Hoi An transforms into a dazzling spectacle with hundreds of lanterns lighting up the narrow streets, porches, and the banks of the Hoai River. This is the perfect moment to:

Enjoy dinner by the Hoai River at restaurants like Bep Tre or Van Loc, where you can savor local specialties like Mi Quang, Banh Beo, or Banh Dap in a romantic setting.
Participate in a lotus flower lantern release on the river, where each floating lantern represents a wish for peace and good fortune.
Visit the Nguyen Hoang Night Market, with over 50 stalls selling handmade crafts, jewelry, paintings, souvenirs, or join in traditional games like blindfolded pot-smashing or Bai Choi singing with the locals.

Day 2: Cu Lao Cham

Morning: Leave the Ancient Town and explore the pristine beauty of Cu Lao Cham

After a sparkling evening in the Old Town, day two is the perfect time to expand your journey and experience the fresh, unspoiled nature of Cu Lao Cham’s coastal area.

Must-visit places include:

Hai Tang Pagoda: A 250-year-old pagoda that blends folk architecture with traditional Buddhist design.
Cham Ancient Well and local seafood market: Offering a glimpse into the simple, harmonious life of the fishermen and their close connection with the sea.

Xep Beach or Huong Beach: Perfect for snorkeling, where you can admire vibrant coral reefs and schools of small fish swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Afternoon: Enjoy fresh seafood on the island

After exploring the island, lunch in Cu Lao Cham is a highlight not to be missed. The seafood here is freshly caught that morning and simply prepared to preserve its natural, oceanic flavor.

Some must-try dishes include:

Grilled sun-dried squid: Fragrant, crispy, and retains its natural sweetness.
Moon-shaped snails: A species found only on the island, with thick, chewy meat.
Seafood porridge: Light and easy to eat, perfect after a swim in the sea.
Stir-fried wild vegetables with garlic: A unique local vegetable with a fragrant and nutty taste.

You can enjoy your meal at Truc Cam Seafood Restaurant or Bai Lang Eatery, both popular spots for visitors.

Afternoon: Return to the mainland and visit traditional craft villages

In the early afternoon, take the canoe back to the Cua Dai dock to end your island exploration. Instead of heading back to your hotel for rest, take advantage of the time to discover another aspect of Hoi An’s rich culture—its traditional craft villages.

Two suggested spots near the town center include:

Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Try your hand at pottery making, paint designs, and take home your creations as souvenirs.

Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Located across the Thu Bon River, this village is famous for its intricate wood carvings. You can visit the workshops, admire exquisite pieces, and chat with the local craftsmen.

Evening: Unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of the Ancient Town

After a day full of activities, the evening is the perfect time to relax in the gentle ambiance of Hoi An’s Old Town.

You can choose to:

Visit a riverside café and sip on a hot cup of coffee.
Have dinner at a quiet restaurant like Hoa Hien Restaurant.
Take a final stroll through the Old Town as the lanterns light up and experience a very different side of Hoi An: calm, profound, and full of emotions.

Day 3: Enjoy Cua Dai beach and experience Bay Mau coconut forest

Morning: Relax on the sunny and breezy Cua Dai beach

The final day is the perfect time to leave behind the ancient town’s pace and head towards the beach for a few moments of relaxation and fresh air.

From your hotel, you can travel by motorbike or bicycle to Cua Dai Beach, located just 5 km from the center of Hoi An. The beach greets you with soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and palm trees swaying in the breeze.

Here, you can:

Take an early swim, enjoy the fresh air, and cool off in the refreshing sea.
Stroll along the sand, admiring the basket boats and fishing boats lined up along the shore.
If you’re in the mood for some activity, try paddleboarding, beach volleyball, or simply relax under an umbrella with a book, listening to the sound of the waves.

The peaceful atmosphere, the soft morning sunlight, and the gentle sea breeze will offer you a rare sense of tranquility before the journey comes to an end.

Afternoon: Enjoy seafood and relax before your next exploration

After swimming in the sea, you can choose to have lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants by the beach. The seafood at Cua Dai Beach is fresh, simply prepared with dishes like grilled squid, steamed clams, spicy shrimp, or fish cooked with turmeric.

You can visit A Rinh Seafood Restaurant or Cua Dai Beach Restaurant, two popular spots loved by tourists for their beachfront setting, delicious food, and friendly service.

Afterward, you can return to your hotel for a rest, or if you have extra time, sit at a roadside café to watch people pass by and feel the slower pace of life in Hoi An during the quiet midday hours.

Afternoon: Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest – A little piece of the Mekong River in the heart of Hoi An

Around 2:00 PM, continue your journey with a trip to Bay Mau Coconut Forest, located in Cam Thanh Village, just 3–4 km from the Ancient Town.

Activities you shouldn’t miss:

Row a basket boat and try paddling on the cool, serene waters.
Join a handicraft class to make items from coconut leaves, such as rings, grasshoppers, or traditional hats.
Fishing and netting: Experience the life of the local people living by the river.
Take photos at the small creeks where sunlight filters through the coconut trees, creating a peaceful natural scene.

Evening: Return to the Ancient Town, wrapping up a complete journey

Around 5:30 PM, return to your hotel to pack up and prepare to leave Hoi An. If you still have some time, take another stroll through the Ancient Town and pick up a few more local specialties:

Hoi An chili sauce, Banh To (round cakes), Sesame candy.
Handmade products like pop-up greeting cards, mini wooden lanterns, or silk fabrics.

The 3-day 2-night journey ends peacefully, but will undoubtedly leave you with beautiful memories of an ancient, lively, and charming Hoi An.

Hoi An 3 days 2 nights travel tips

Although the itinerary is already planned, to make your trip more complete, you should prepare a few small yet extremely useful things. The following tips will help you be more proactive during your journey, avoid fatigue, save time, and enjoy the Ancient Town to the fullest:

Arrive early on the first day to make the most of your sightseeing time in the Old Town.
Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking a lot.
Prepare light, easy-to-mix outfits for those perfect photo opportunities.
Book your Cu Lao Cham and Bay Mau Coconut Forest tour in advance to avoid missing out on spots.
Bring cash as night markets and small shops rarely accept electronic payments.
Go early to avoid the crowds, especially at spots like the Japanese Covered Bridge and night market.
Bring an umbrella or hat and water, especially during the sunny season.
Do not litter when releasing lanterns, as it’s important to preserve the beauty of the Ancient Town.

How much does a 3 days 2 nights trip to Hoi An cost?

The cost for a 3 days 2 nights trip to Hoi An ranges from approximately 4,550,000 VND per person if you choose mid-range services. This price includes accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and some popular activities.

Accommodation costs

Hotels in Hoi An offer a wide range of price options, catering to various types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable 3-star hotel or a luxurious resort, there are plenty of choices to suit your needs and preferences.

Type of accommodation	Price range (VND/night)
Budget hotels	300.000 – 600.000
Mid-range hotels	600.000 – 1.300.000
Premium hotels/resorts	1.500.000 – 5.000.000

Food and beverage costs

Hoi An is famous for its rich and affordable cuisine. Below is an estimated cost for meals during your trip:

Food type	Price range (VND/meal)
Food Type Price Range (VND/meal)Snacks (corn dessert, banh dap)	20.000 – 50.000
Main dishes (Cao Lau, Mi Quang)	50.000 – 100.000
Fine dining restaurants	150.000 – 300.000

Transportation costs

The cost of getting around in Hoi An largely depends on the transportation method you choose:

Transportation	Price range (VNĐ)
Bike rental	30.000 – 50.000/ngày
Motorbike rental	100.000 – 150.000/ngày
Taxi (short trips)	100.000 – 200.000

Entrance fees and activities

Many attractions in Hoi An are free, but some popular sites and activities have entrance fees:

Attraction/Activity	Price (VND/person)
Hoi An Ancient Town (5 sites)	120.000
Cu Lao Cham	150.000 – 200.000
Bay Mau Coconut Forest (boat ride)	150.000 – 200.000

Where to stay in Hoi An?

To make your 3-days 2-nights trip to Hoi An even more complete, choosing the right accommodation is a key factor not to be overlooked. If you’re looking for a hotel with a convenient location, high-quality service, and a luxurious atmosphere, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery is the ideal choice.

Located right by the charming Thu Bon River, just a few minutes’ walk from the Ancient Town, the hotel boasts a prime location, making it easy for you to visit popular destinations like the night market, Japanese Covered Bridge, and local restaurants.

The rooms at Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery are elegantly designed, spacious, and fully equipped with modern amenities such as a bathtub, private balcony, premium bedding, and a minibar.

What’s more, the hotel features a stunning rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views of the Ancient Town, a gym, a relaxing spa, an Asian-European restaurant, and a chic bar. This makes it the perfect retreat for couples, families, or anyone who loves tranquility and luxury.

Deluxe Suite

The ideal accommodation for couples or families seeking a spacious layout with gorgeous views, our Deluxe Suites ensure a luxurious experience that include 70 sqm of living space, great balcony opening up the grand views of Hoai River and Hoi An. Enjoy chic life, privileges at Executive Lounge.

Conclusion

Hoi An is an ideal destination for a 3-days 2-nights trip, where you can explore the ancient beauty of the Old Town, relax on Cua Dai Beach, and immerse yourself in the untouched nature of Cu Lao Cham. Bay Mau Coconut Forest is also a must-visit, offering a unique cultural atmosphere that allows you to experience the tranquility and serenity of Central Vietnam.

With a well-planned itinerary, you will have enough time to fall in love with Hoi An in your own way. From choosing transportation, enjoying local specialties like Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and Banh Xeo, to visiting iconic spots like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Hoi An Night Market, you’ll have a journey full of exciting and memorable experiences in this ancient town.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, head to Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery to enjoy a luxurious retreat where you can relax and recharge in a peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect end to a wonderful stay in Hoi An.