Hoi An, Vietnam: The Complete 2024 Guide to Sights, Weather & More!

According to a trustworthy website called Travel Off Path, an American travel platform that addresses travel-related issues, Hoi An has been ranked among the top seven greatest destinations in the world for 2024. The streets of Vietnam are filled with people who praise the beauty of Hoi An, particularly its captivating Old Town, which seamlessly blends various cultural elements, some dating back to the French colonial era. For a long time, it has remained a must-visit on tourists’ bucket lists, thanks to its exceptional wonders. Why does Hoi An enjoy such global fame? What can be done during an internship there? With the help of locals, let’s explore this remarkable destination in Vietnam today.

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)Updated on 05-11-2024

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Where is Hoi An, Vietnam?

Located in Central Vietnam, Hoi An is approximately 45 minutes south of Da Nang, while Huế, once a royal city, is situated three hours away, driving north.

This town brings together all the beautiful elements of nature. Just 3 km from the historical downtown, the white sand beaches and blue waters of the East Sea await you. The main city is situated along the Thu Bon River, with its view interwoven with winding canals, making it a poetic and nature-friendly place to be.

What You Need to Know Before You Go?

Start with these 4 essential points to avoid common tourist mistakes and plan your trip easily.

• Plan at least 2 days in Hoi An

Many vacationers assume that Hoi An consists of nothing more than the Old Town, but this isn't true. There are spectacular beaches adjacent to this historic hub, ranking among the most beautiful in Vietnam. A half-hour ride will take you to charming villages where craftsmanship reigns supreme, allowing visitors to experience life as it was lived in the past—making them ideal for an authentic visit. For those who want just a taste of Hoi An, a day will be sufficient. However, if you wish to explore everything Hoi An has to offer, 2 days and 1 night, or ideally 3 days, are recommended.

• Stay in the center of Hoi An (around the old quarters)

For convenient walking, consider staying in the Minh An district, close to the Old Town. Alternatively, you can stay near the coastline and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. However, don't forget to check the hotel's location using apps like Booking, Agoda, or Tripadvisor. If you overlook this detail, you may end up spending time riding in taxis or traveling long distances via public transportation to reach various famous sites in the area.

• Check the weather for a beach holiday

The best time for a beach holiday is usually between mid-April and mid-August, with a pleasant climate. From September to December, there is the rain and rough seas that make stays at seaside less ideal. In any case, other types of visits, especially in the old quarters, remain possible during this period.

Let's see now the must-sees of Hoi An.

Things to do in Hoi An? Top 15 essential activities

1. Stroll Through the Heart of the Old Town

Hoi An's Old Quarter, covering less than 2 km², is tucked into a quaint corner and offers a beautiful dining destination. The narrow, winding streets, lined with old houses adorned with colorful lanterns, invite you to stroll leisurely. Renting a bike allows you to further immerse yourself in the surreal ambiance, where lanterns illuminate the streets, from Khmer-inspired buildings to ancient temples.

After dark, Hoi An bursts into color. The entire town comes alive, with every street decorated in beautiful lanterns. One must-see viewpoint is the sunset over the Hoai River. Whether sitting on a boat or walking along the docks, this is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Hoi An in the evening.

2. Discover the Iconic Old Houses of Hoi An

The Old Town of Hoi An is marked by yellow-colored houses that remind one of its histories with foreign merchants. Besides, it was further adorned with many Chinese communal houses and areas used for available social, commercial, and cultural activities.

Some of the really ancient houses in Hoi An are worth seeing, such as the Tan Ky Old House, a private mansion dating from 1741, full of antiques with a great cultural and artistic value. And that's not it! The other old houses of the city, such as Phung Hung, Quan Thang, or Duc An, are also worth visiting.

These architectural marvels are all easily located in the Old Town, giving any visitor a real glimpse of Vietnamese life as it was almost 200 years ago.

3. Visit Chua Cau, one of the iconic symbols of Hoi An town

Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Bridge, was built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants. This famous bridge is distinguished by its unique architecture, harmoniously blending Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese elements. Built of wood and stone, it stretches majestically above a tributary of the Thu Bon River. Its beautifully carved lacquer roof decorated with wood and stone carvings adds to its striking charm.

Interesting to note, the image of this bridge even appears on the back of the Vietnamese 20,000 VND note, testifying to its symbolic importance for the country.

>>> You may be interested in: Vietnamese Currency

4. Experience the captivating art activities in Hoi An ancient town

Are you fascinated by traditional art objects and antique Asian colors? Then, the traditional mask-making activity in Hoi An is an experience you can't miss! Discover the ancient art of mask-making and create your own colorful masterpiece using techniques passed down through generations. This activity is a unique opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the region while exploring your creativity.

Live this fascinating experience at "The Timing Masks Hoi An" (Address: 66 Bach Dang, Hoi An, Vietnam). You will learn many interesting anecdotes about the masks that characterize "bội" or "tuồng" singing (Vietnamese classical opera) with various nuances and expressions of emotion.

5. Hoi An Museums

Museums in Hoi An are incredibly captivating as they are located in ancient traditional houses that serve as “museums”. The main aim of these museums is to preserve and exhibit collections of artifacts and documents. The collections represent how Hoi An City was formed and developed, portraying its culture, spirit and people’s lives throughout different historical periods.

There are six thematic museums within the Hoi An museum cluster:

1. Hoi An Museum (10B Tran Hung Dao Street)
2. Sa Huynh Culture Museum (149 Tran Phu Street)
3. Ceramics Museum (80 Tran Phu Street)
4. Folklore Museum (33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street)
5. Memorial House of Cao Hong Lanh (129 Tran Phu Street)

6. Visit the specialized traditional villages of Hoi An

Once you’ve explored the sights of the ancient city, you can rent a bicycle and ride into the countryside to visit nearby craft or agricultural villages. For instance, you can visit Thanh Ha for its ceramic products, Tra Que for organic herbs and vegetables, and Cam Chau to pick up some lanterns. These charming little towns are situated around 5 km (a 20-minute drive) from Hoi An’s Old Quarter, making them quite convenient to reach. Along the way, you’ll experience the peaceful side of Hoi An, not far from the bustling city center with its vibrant entertainment and restaurants.

If you have a green thumb and love to cook, you can head to Tra Que village, known for its organically grown crops and herbs. Explore the fields, greet the residents, and participate in the local agrarian cycle, from planting to harvesting, before preparing a Vietnamese dish from scratch using fresh produce.

>>> Ready for the ultimate Vietnam experience? Your 2-week Vietnam itinerary awaits!!

7. Take an excursion to the Cham Islands

What to do in Hoi An, Vietnam, if you're a beach enthusiast? This is an excellent day trip from Hoi An for all lovers of pristine sand, translucent waters, and a complete change of scenery. The Cham or Cu Lao Cham islands are located 20km off the coast of the old town of Hoi An. This archipelago consists of a group of 8 small islands that have become one of the 15 national marine reserves and have been recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve.

In this little island paradise, you can enjoy magnificent beaches and exceptional seabed. Scuba diving and discovering the traditional making of hammocks are among the essential activities not to be missed.

8. Relax on Hoi An's Beautiful Beaches

Hoi An is also famous for its beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees. Cua Dai and An Bang beaches, located just a 30-minute bike ride from Hoi An, are perfect for relaxing and enjoying water sports. From February to September, during the summer season, you can also enjoy its wonderful beaches located just a few kilometers from the city center.

In addition to their natural beauty, the two featured beaches also offer a wide choice of restaurants, whether Vietnamese or international, for visitors who want to eat during their sunny day or for a romantic dinner in front of the sea.

>>> Love the ocean? Discover the 10 Most Beautiful Dive Spots in Vietnam

9. Discover the culinary delights of Hoi An

Visiting Hoi An cannot be done without discovering its culinary specialties, an essential aspect of Vietnamese culture! The city is a foodie’s paradise. Hoi An was something of a melting pot when it came to cuisine in particular, with incredible flavors. One of the traditional dishes you absolutely must eat is “cao lau”. The “cao lau” noodle dish is the best example, expressing both this cosmopolitan heritage and the soul of its region. These pastas have a reputation for being unique, made exclusively from ingredients only found in Hoi An and its surrounding areas.

Another dish that is unique to Hoi An and worth trying is Xi Ma, a dessert. Xi Ma, also known as black sesame sweet soup, is a traditional dessert in Hoi An. This unique treat is made from ground black sesame seeds, rice flour, and a hint of Chinese medicine, resulting in a smooth, rich, and mildly sweet flavor. Often enjoyed as a warm and comforting dish, Xi Ma is cherished for its purported health benefits and its role in Hoi An's culinary heritage.

In addition to Cao Lau and Xi Ma which is the most typical dish, you should also try Quang noodles, another typical dish from this region of Vietnam. Additionally, Hoi An chicken rice is also a dish you should try.

But why stop there? A 3-week itinerary through Vietnam awaits, offering a tapestry of tastes, sights, and experiences beyond compare!

Besides discovering the unmissable dishes of Hoi An, don't forget to drink MOT herbal tea, a famous drink that can only be found in Hoi An. This local drink, prepared with tea and a unique blend of herbs like lemongrass, lemon and cinnamon, is a taste experience not to be missed. The tea cups are made of paper, the straws are made of bamboo and the drink is decorated with tea leaves and fresh lotus petals, for a pleasant presentation. “Nuoc MOT” (MOT herbal tea) with aromas and flavors found nowhere else in the world.

10. Take part in the cooking class in Hoi An

Hoi An is considered the new gastronomic capital of the country. Visitors can discover different tasty dishes by signing up for a cooking class. Hoi An offers a quality program with sightseeing activities combined with culinary experimentation sessions such as visiting local markets, area villages, excursions and demonstrations of planting and picking ingredients.

Hoi An's typical dishes are healthy, delicious and taken from everyday life. Taking a cooking class is one of the top ten travel experiences in Vietnam according to the Lonely Planet guide, so if you like culinary activities, this is a must-do activity in Hoi An.

The sessions take place in a restaurant in the company of a chef-instructor and a English-speaking guide. Steps include visiting a local market to choose ingredients, cooking traditional Vietnamese dishes with the instructor and active student participation, followed by tasting the prepared foods.

11. Attend one of the best shows in the world – Hoi An Memories Show

Did you know that in Vietnam, there is a world-renowned show: the Hoi An Memories Show! This open-air theatrical performance has become a phenomenon since its showcase at Times Square in New York in March 2019, gaining international media coverage.

It is performed in a massive open space of 25,000 square meters, accommodating over 3,000 spectators. With 500 actors on stage, the show narrates the history of Hoi An, from its inception to its development as the busiest commercial port in Southeast Asia, over four centuries. Come and discover the harmonious and grandiose scenes, the traditional settings of pagodas and bridges, as well as the aquatic scenes. You will be transported to the golden age of Hoi An and immersed in a living legend of Vietnamese history.

12. Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest by Basket Boat in Hoi An

Bay Mau Coconut Forest, just a 10-minute drive from Hoi An Old Town, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. By taking a traditional basket boat, you can explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about local history and culture. The peaceful beauty of the coconut trees and the diverse wildlife of birds and fish will transport you to a world of serenity.

You can also make your own souvenirs from coconut leaves, a local specialty. The Bay Mau coconut forest is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in Vietnamese nature and culture.

13. Discover the ghost town of An Bang

An Bang, in Hoi An, is famous for housing the most luxurious mausoleum in Vietnam. Although not an official tourist destination, the village attracts many visitors due to its nickname "the city of tombs" or sometimes "ghost town" given by foreign media.

The An Bang tombs reflect a remarkable convergence of elements from Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and even Islam. They are notable for their imposing pillars, sophisticated carvings and creative use of broken ceramics as decorative materials.

14. Experience custom tailoring in Hoi An

As you stroll through the streets of Hoi An Old Town, you will be struck by the abundance of fabric and fashion boutiques. But what truly sets Hoi An apart is the presence of tailors in every fashion store. They design and make tailor-made clothing, meeting the needs of customers, particularly foreign tourists. Each boutique houses several tailors and designers, and some even have specialized workshops.

During your visit to Hoi An, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fast-paced tailoring culture. In no time, you can walk away with a stunning made-to-measure garment, crafted to your desires, all at an affordable price. Don't miss this chance to discover the art of tailor-made sewing at your fingertips during your visit to Hoi An.

>>> You may be interested in: Best tailors in Hoi An Vietnam: custom-made clothing in 24 hours

>>> Map of must-sees in Hoi An 

Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility.

>>> Want to explore the country from north to south? Check out our 2-week Vietnam Itineraries.

What to do in Hoi An when it rains?

Don't be sad if you arrive in Hội An and it rains. It is an opportunity to discover a different side of the beauty of this city. Hội An in the rain exudes a calm, romantic and slightly melancholic atmosphere. The ideal activities to do in Hội An when it rains are to enjoy a cup of fragrant Vietnamese coffee or tea in one of the charming cafes in the old town while admiring the rain.

If you are an art lover, this is also an opportunity to take your time and immerse yourself in Vietnamese art by visiting the art galleries in the old town. Hoi An Old Town prides itself on having a variety of art galleries that display exceptional works by renowned artists from across Vietnam. The paintings and photographs presented here reflect the traditional culture of Vietnam, with its lush nature, traditional people and costumes, as well as its villages and iconic sites.

Each art gallery in the heart of Hoi An Old Town offers visitors a unique artistic experience, inviting them to discover and appreciate the diversity and colors of Vietnamese art.

To fully experience these highlights without the hassle of planning, consider our Vietnam comprehensive tours, where every detail is taken care of with your comfort and enjoyment in mind.

When are the best times to visit?

Knowing the Hoi An weather is essential if you want to visit this historic city. The city is located in central Vietnam and is affected by the monsoon season which occurs during the rainy season. The other times of the year the weather is hot and dry.

• The dry season runs from January to July

In January till early March every year is the period when climate changes quite favorably for visitors. Therefore there is no need at all to mind climate change as it only affects them positively but between mid-March and July it becomes so hot. 

In addition, it is advisable to avoid April 30 and May 1, as it is one of Viet Nam's biggest national holidays (Reunification Day), and all Vietnamese are on vacation and travel during this period.

• The rainy season runs from August to December

It changes every year but normally in November, there are heavy rains and flooding in Hoi An, which only lasts for a few days, but not for the whole month. Hoi An appears differently during flood season as its alleys that were once only meant for scooters or walking become canals. Instead of using scooters or bicycles we use boats to move around!

If it rains don’t be disappointed; it’s a time to perceive the city differently. The rain makes it more alluring because of its soothing depressive romantic ambiance. This is an opportunity to have Vietnamese coffee or tea at an antique café within the old town while watching the rain fall down.

>>> Experience Vietnam like never before on a 2-week journey with Kampá Tour—reserve your place now!

• “Full Moon Festival” in Hoi An

Every 14th of the lunar month, the old town becomes pedestrianized and vibrates to the rhythm of traditional games and the release of lanterns. A bewitching time to discover local customs and interact with the locals.

If you want to get away from the flow of tourists, stay in Hoi An in the low season and avoid the months of March and April.

Our Recommended Travel Routes to Explore Hoi An

Itinerary 1: Heritage and Traditions in Hoi An

Day 1: Discover the Charms of Hoi An

• Morning: Kick off your Hoi An itinerary with a guided bike tour through the Old Quarter, a must-do to experience Hoi An's rich culture and local crafts.
• Gourmet Break: Delight in authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a café renowned for its coffee and tea, capturing the essence of Vietnamese culture.
• Afternoon: Venture into the surrounding villages where you can immerse yourself in the daily life and traditional practices that define Vietnamese culture.
• Evening: Conclude your day with a serene boat trip on the Thu Bon River, a perfect reflection of Hoi An's peaceful ambiance.

>>> 🌏 Vietnam 10 days itinerary will take you through Vietnam's secret gems and iconic sights! 🌟🏖️

Day 2: Serenity at Hoi An Beaches

• Spend a relaxing day at the pristine Hoi An beaches, ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy the scenic views that Vietnam travel offers.

Day 3: Cultural Expedition to Hue

• The journey to the city of Huế is feasible and offers a different perspective, as it is an ancient city rich in imperial monuments. With its imperial city, royal tombs, and palaces, the impression of returning to past centuries is striking. The trip from Hoi An to Huế takes about 3 hours.

Itinerary 2: Countryside and Crafts Around Hoi An

Day 1: Engage with Local Traditions

• Morning: Explore Van Lang village and the iconic coconut forests in a traditional basket boat, reflecting the unique aspects of Hoi An things to do.
• Afternoon: Visit Tra Que village, a short journey from Hoi An, where you can participate in organic farming—a hands-on experience of Vietnamese culture.
• Evening: Return to Hoi An’s Old Quarter, where the nightlife buzzes with culture and history.

Day 2: Beach Day in Hoi An

• Like the previous itinerary, enjoy the tranquility of Hoi An beaches, a highlight for anyone’s Vietnam travel itinerary.

Day 3: Explore Ancient and Nearby Attractions

• Visit the My Son Sanctuary, an essential part of any Hoi An itinerary for those interested in historical sites and ancient civilizations. This site offers a deep dive into the spiritual heritage of the region, akin to Cambodia's Angkor temples but uniquely Vietnamese.

>>> Discovering the Heritage of the Champa: My Son Sanctuary: An Indian Legacy Near Hoi An

How to get there?

The distance between Hanoi and Hoi An is about 740 km, which will take up to 13 hours to drive from Hanoi to Hoi An. The distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An is approximately 950 km; a drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An takes nearly 15 hours. The duration may vary based on the transport mode. 

However, we do not advise you to go to Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City because the journey is quite long and can become tiring.

• By plane

Flying from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) or Hanoi is the quickest option. The journey takes only 1 hour to Danang Airport. Hoi An is 30 km from the latter, you can take a car, bus, or shuttle to get to Hoi An.

>>> Learn more about flights to Hoi An

• By car from Danang to Hoi An

If you arrive at Danang Airport, the best way to get to Hoi An is to take a car. However, be careful with taxis, as they can inflate prices and charge high tips. We therefore recommend that you rent a car directly from Danang Airport. You can obtain information from your travel agency or hotel. Alternatively, you can also look for shuttle buses to go to Hoi An.

• By train

Many trains depart from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Danang. Then, to reach Hoi An, you will need to take a bus or taxi. The train journey can take several hours, but it offers a unique experience, especially if you opt for an overnight cabin. This will also save you a night in a hotel. Although the speed is slow, the train ride offers the opportunity to admire the beauty of the Vietnamese countryside, with its rice fields and green mountains.

To buy a train ticket online in Vietnam, it is recommended to visit the official website of Vietnam Railways at https://dsvn.vn/

• By bus

An interesting option for travelers on a budget is to take the night sleeper bus. There are sleeper buses that connect Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, however, this option is very long-lasting and it is important to note that it does not offer more safety in terms of traffic than the other options mentioned above.

>>> Do you know: New Hue Train Tours proffer Breathtaking Views of Lang Co Bay?

Where to stay in Hoi An?

In Hoi An, you have a wide range of accommodation options, from budget choices to luxury accommodations. It is crucial to choose carefully to ensure a pleasant experience during your visit. To do this, consult reputable hotel reservation sites such as Booking, Agoda, etc. Don't forget to take into account the opinions of other travelers regarding the establishment that interests you, and do not hesitate to directly contact the hotel of your choice to ensure all the details.

Among all the options available, we have selected three hotels particularly appreciated by our travelers:

La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa:

• Address: 132 Hung Vuong, Thanh Ha, Hoi An, Vietnam

Just a 10-minute walk from the center of Hoi An Old Town, La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa offers an oasis of natural beauty. Nestled in a lush tropical garden, this resort is an ideal hideaway to escape from the chaos of life and find peace in absolute privacy. With its harmonious marriage of modern architecture and traditional Vietnamese charm, the 137 rooms offer an elegant resort experience in the heart of nature. Additionally, the resort offers 4 swimming pools for cooling off and relaxing.

Little Hoi An:

• Address: 02 Thoai Ngoc Hau, Hoi An

Little Hoi An is a boutique hotel located in the center of Hoi An Town. This hotel offers an authentic ambiance with an inspiring history of Faifo Town, which has stood the test of time. The design of the hotel is rustic and charming, reflecting the ancient town of Hoi An.

Hoi An Boutique Resort:

• Address: 34 Lac Long Quan, Cam Chau, Hoi An

Boutique Hoi An Resort is a haven of peace and relaxation nestled on a sandy beach by the sea. The spacious villas offer stunning ocean views, while the large private terraces are the ideal place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The lush tropical gardens surrounding the swimming pool invite relaxation and contemplation. If you are a sea lover, Boutique Hoi An Resort is the ideal place for you.

>>> Read More: Top-Rated Hotels in Hoi An for 2024: A Star-Studded Guide

Our last words

Exploring Hoi An promises an immersive adventure. The alleys illuminated by lanterns and historic houses transport you to a culturally rich past. Whether you aspire to delve into history, savor the local cuisine, or relax on the beaches, Hoi An offers a varied and captivating experience. We hope this comprehensive guide will help you prepare for an in-depth exploration of this world heritage - Hoi An. Enjoy every moment to the fullest and let yourself be immersed in the timeless beauty of this unique destination!

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