CONTENTS
1. About Hội An
2. Things to do
– Explore Hội An old town
– The lanterns of Hội An
– Cruise on the Thu Bồn River
– Visit the markets of Hội An
– Take a traditional Vietnamese cooking class
– Get some Tailor-Made Clothing in Hội An
– A day trip to Bà Nà Hills
– Visit Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary
– Visit Marble Mountains and Monkey Mountain
3. Planning your visit
4. The best time to visit
5. Where to stay
About Hội An
Hoi An is one of those places that seems to slow time down the moment you arrive. The old town, with its honey-coloured walls and wooden shopfronts, feels like a step back into another age. Lanterns hang in clusters above narrow streets, and in the evenings, they glow softly, reflected in the still waters of the Thu Bồn River. Walking through the town, it is easy to see traces of its trading past in the blend of Chinese, Japanese and French influences that shape its architecture and food. Many of the old merchant houses are now small museums, tailors or cafes, but they have kept their quiet charm. The pace is gentle, and much of life happens outdoors, with families sitting on doorsteps and vendors selling snacks from low baskets balanced on poles.
Outside the old town, Hoi An still feels rooted in everyday life rather than tourism alone. Early in the morning, the markets are busy with people buying vegetables, tofu and fresh herbs, their chatter mixing with the sound of mopeds and the rustle of banana leaves being wrapped around food. The river is central to much of this rhythm — boats carry goods, tourists and sometimes just local families going about their day. Beyond the main streets, the countryside opens into rice fields and coconut palms, where farmers still work with water buffalo and the air smells faintly of earth and smoke. It is easy to hire a bicycle and explore these lanes at a slow pace, stopping for a drink or to watch people weaving mats or making rice paper by hand.
Hoi An is also a place where small details stand out. The colours of the old houses shift with the light, the sound of distant bells carries from pagodas, and the scent of incense drifts from doorways. Even with the number of visitors it attracts, there are still quiet corners to be found — a shaded courtyard, a riverbank at dusk, or a small temple garden where time feels still. The town changes with the seasons too: the lantern festival lights up the river once a month, while the rainy season brings a softer, more reflective mood. For many, Hoi An is less about ticking off sights and more about noticing these simple, everyday moments that make it feel so calm and human.
Things to do
🌅 Visit the Ancient Town of Hoi An
Wandering through Hoi An’s Ancient Town feels like stepping into a carefully preserved painting of another century. The ochre walls, wooden shopfronts, and quiet courtyards all tell stories of when this was one of Southeast Asia’s busiest trading ports. As we strolled along the narrow streets, past tailor shops and small cafés, the blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences was unmistakable. The Japanese Covered Bridge, with its elegant arch and intricate carvings, stood as a reminder of the city’s long history of cultural exchange. In the evening, the riverfront came alive with soft lantern light, and the air filled with the scent of incense and street food. We found a small vegan café tucked down an alley serving fresh spring rolls, tofu noodles, and herbal tea, which felt just right after hours of walking in the humid air.
Hoi An’s Chinese assembly halls are among its most striking buildings, each one built by a different community of Chinese traders centuries ago. We visited the Fujian and Cantonese Halls, both richly decorated with carved dragons, tiled roofs, and colourful murals. Inside, the air was thick with incense smoke, curling slowly around the hanging coils suspended from the ceiling. Locals came and went to pray or light offerings, and we stood quietly, absorbing the calm atmosphere.
Each hall told a story of trade and migration — reminders that Hoi An once connected merchants from across Asia. We admired the detailed woodwork and the serene courtyards filled with plants and small ponds. The combination of art, religion, and architecture made these halls feel like living museums. Outside, stalls sold paper offerings and small charms, and the hum of everyday life resumed.
🕯️ Enjoy the Hoi An Lantern Festival
Our visit coincided with the full moon, when Hoi An’s Lantern Festival transformed the town into a sea of light. Electric lamps were turned off, and only candles and lanterns illuminated the streets. Locals and visitors alike released colourful lanterns onto the river, each carrying a wish or prayer. We bought ours from a smiling vendor near the bridge and watched them drift away among hundreds of others, their reflections trembling on the water’s surface.
As we wandered the lanes, traditional music played from doorways, and the smell of sweet rice cakes and grilled corn filled the air. Every few steps, someone offered us a chance to buy handmade lanterns or join a boat ride. It could have been overwhelming, but somehow it wasn’t — there was a quiet order to the evening, as if the whole town breathed together in rhythm. The festival was less about spectacle and more about the shared peace it created.
🚤 Enjoy a River Cruise on the Thu Bồn
One of the most relaxing ways to see Hoi An is from the water. In the late afternoon, we boarded a small wooden boat for a gentle cruise along the Thu Bồn River. The sun dipped low as we glided past fishermen casting their nets, their movements rhythmic and practiced. The riverbanks were lined with coconut palms, and the breeze carried the faint scent of wood smoke from evening cooking fires. Our boatman, a cheerful man named Minh, told stories of how his family had lived by the river for generations, fishing at dawn and ferrying visitors in the evenings.
We watched lanterns being released onto the water as the sky turned deep orange. It’s a simple ritual, said to bring luck, and the reflection of hundreds of small lights floating downstream was mesmerising. Vegan snacks are easy to find nearby – rice paper rolls, banana fritters, or fresh fruit sold by vendors along the riverfront. Cruising through the calm water, we felt that sense of stillness that Hoi An is known for, a rare quiet moment in a place shaped by centuries of trade and change.
🛍️ Wander Through Hoi An’s Central Market
No visit to Hoi An is complete without a morning at its bustling Central Market. Located on the riverside near the old town, it is a lively maze of stalls selling everything from silk lanterns to fragrant spices. The air was thick with the scent of herbs, chillies, and ripe mangoes as we walked through the narrow aisles. Locals bargained with energy and laughter, and we found the vegetable section especially interesting – piles of lemongrass, mint, and morning glory, all sold fresh from nearby farms.
For vegans, this market is a joy. We bought fresh spring rolls filled with tofu and herbs, and tried a glass of cooling sugarcane juice from a small stand near the entrance. The food court area has simple local dishes like cao lầu noodles, which can be made without meat if you ask. Beyond the food, there are tailors who can make clothing within a day or two, and basket weavers crafting goods by hand. The market captures everything that makes Hoi An special – colour, warmth, and a sense of timeless community.
Hội An Night Market, occupying Nguyen Hoang Street in the center of town, consists of over 50 local vendors selling a variety of local snacks, trinkets, clothing, jewellery, and accessories. Widely regarded as one of the most popular markets in Vietnam, it occupies a 300-metre-long street that overlooks Thu Bon River and is illuminated by hundreds of colorful lanterns, making a popular spot for photography as well.
🍜 Take a Vegan Cooking Class
Hoi An’s reputation for food is well deserved, and one of the best ways to understand it is through a cooking class. We joined a small group class run by a local family in the countryside. The morning began with a visit to the local market, where our host showed us herbs, tofu, and fresh vegetables, explaining how they’re used in everyday Vietnamese cooking. The smells were powerful — lemongrass, ginger, and coriander all mingling in the warm air.
At the family home, we learned to make dishes such as fresh spring rolls, spicy noodle soup with tofu, and green papaya salad. Everything was plant-based, prepared slowly, with care and attention to balance. Eating what we had made felt rewarding — not just a meal but an insight into how food, family, and hospitality connect in Vietnam. By the end of the class, our hands smelled of herbs and our clothes faintly of smoke from the cooking fires.
🧵 Shop for Tailored Clothes
Hoi An is famous for its tailors, and we decided to experience it ourselves. After visiting several shops, we found one run by a family who had been sewing here for generations. They took our measurements with practiced ease, guiding us through rolls of fabric in cotton, linen, and silk. The process felt surprisingly personal, and they were keen to make something that suited both our taste and comfort.
The next day, we returned for fitting, and the clothes were ready — beautifully made, comfortable, and entirely unique. Tailoring in Hoi An is not just about clothing; it’s about tradition and pride in craftsmanship. The experience reminded us that even as the town becomes busier with tourism, many of its trades still depend on skill, patience, and personal connection.
🎢 Escape to Bà Nà Hills
A visit to Bà Nà Hills made for a very different kind of day — cooler, quirkier, and high above the coastal plain. The cable car ride alone was breathtaking, gliding through mist-covered mountains and deep valleys. At the top stood the famous Golden Bridge, its curved span held up by two enormous stone hands rising from the fog. It was busy, but standing there, looking out over the forest canopy, was unforgettable. Built by the French in the early 20th century as a hill station, the area now mixes European-style gardens, faux castles, and old stone pathways with modern attractions and viewpoints.
We wandered through the flower gardens, admired the French village facades, and stopped for lunch at a small café offering vegan banh mi and fresh fruit smoothies. The air was cool enough that it almost felt like spring. Despite the slightly surreal mix of architecture, there was something fascinating about how this mountaintop resort combined old and new, quiet and lively. On the way back down, the mist rolled in again, wrapping the mountains in soft grey clouds — a beautiful and calm end to the day.
🏯 Explore the Temples of Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary
A day trip from Hoi An took us to Mỹ Sơn, the ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Cham civilisation between the 4th and 13th centuries. Hidden deep in a valley surrounded by jungle-covered hills, the site felt remote and otherworldly. As we walked among the red-brick towers, many partially collapsed or overtaken by roots, it was hard not to feel a quiet respect for the builders who had created such a place with limited tools and boundless devotion. The temples were once dedicated to Shiva, and the sandstone carvings of deities and mythical animals were still visible despite centuries of weathering and war.
Our guide explained how Mỹ Sơn had once been a spiritual and political centre, where kings came to worship and celebrate victories. Bombing during the Vietnam War destroyed much of it, but enough remains to sense its original grandeur. We followed the winding paths through clusters of ruins, listening to the forest around us hum with insects and birds. The stillness was heavy, but peaceful. Visiting here felt like walking through both history and nature at once — the two inseparable. On our way back, we stopped at a small roadside stall serving rice paper rolls and banana flower salad — simple, plant-based and perfect after hours under the sun.
🏖️ Visit the Marble Mountains
Just north of Hoi An, near Da Nang, we explored the Marble Mountains — five limestone and marble hills named after the elements: Water, Fire, Wood, Metal, and Earth. Climbing the steep steps of Thủy Sơn, the largest and most visited of them, was a workout in the midday heat, but the effort was worth it. Along the way were cave temples filled with incense smoke, statues of Buddha carved into the rock, and cool chambers where shafts of sunlight pierced through cracks above. It felt spiritual rather than touristy, a place where worship and nature intertwined.
From the top, the view stretched across the coastline and the South China Sea, with Da Nang shimmering in the distance. We watched monks lighting candles in small shrines while families offered fruit and flowers to the altars. The faint scent of burning incense carried in the wind, mixing with the salty air from the sea below. The climb down was slower, the marble steps polished smooth by centuries of visitors. At the foot of the hill, we found workshops selling marble sculptures, though many artisans now use imported stone to preserve the mountains themselves.
Planning your visit to visit Hoi An
📍 Location
Hoi An is a charming riverside town located on Vietnam’s central coast, about 30 kilometres south of Da Nang. It lies within Quảng Nam Province and is well-known for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town sits on the Thu Bon River and is only a few kilometres from the South China Sea, making it an ideal base for exploring both historical and coastal attractions. Its compact size means most of the main sights, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, the market, and the riverside cafés, are all within easy reach on foot.
✈️ Getting There
The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport, which connects the region with major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and Singapore. From Da Nang, it takes about 45 minutes to reach Hoi An by car or shuttle bus. Taxis and private transfers are widely available at the airport and can be pre-booked for convenience. Trains also run to Da Nang from most major Vietnamese cities, and onward connections by bus or taxi make the final leg of the journey simple. For travellers coming from nearby beach resorts like An Bang or Cua Dai, local taxis or even bicycles are a pleasant way to travel.
🚲 Getting Around
Hoi An is a town best explored at a relaxed pace. Most of the Old Town is pedestrianised during the day, making walking the easiest and most enjoyable option. Bicycles are widely available for hire from hotels and guesthouses and are perfect for exploring the countryside or nearby beaches. For longer distances, small electric shuttles and taxis operate throughout the area. Motorbike hire is also common, but it is not necessary unless you plan to travel further afield. Boats offer a peaceful alternative, with many locals providing short trips along the Thu Bon River, particularly at sunset.
⚖️ Things to Be Aware Of
Hoi An is known for its calm and welcoming atmosphere, but it’s still important to be mindful of local customs and laws. Dress modestly when visiting temples or local homes, covering shoulders and knees. Removing your shoes before entering someone’s house or certain shops is a common courtesy. Public displays of affection are rare and can make locals uncomfortable, especially in rural areas. Vietnam has strict rules about the possession or use of drugs, and penalties are severe.
While photography is generally welcome, always ask before taking close-up pictures of people, particularly monks or workers in the market. The town is safe, but it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. During the rainy season, which typically runs from September to December, streets can flood briefly, so waterproof footwear is useful. Finally, Hoi An operates on a relaxed rhythm — shops may close for an hour or two at lunchtime, and service can be unhurried — but that’s part of its charm.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Planning a visit to Hoi An is straightforward, and the rewards are immense. Its accessible location, walkable streets, and rich blend of history and culture make it one of Vietnam’s most appealing destinations. With a little preparation and respect for local customs, visitors can easily enjoy everything from riverside dining and lantern-lit evenings to cycling through rice fields and exploring nearby beaches.
The best time to visit Hoi An
Nestled in Vietnam, Hoi An finds itself under the grasp of a Tropical Monsoon Climate, also known as the Am under the Köppen Climate Classification. The climatic conditions, marked by high temperatures and abundant rainfall, exhibit a certain amount of variation throughout the year. The temperatures hover between 19°C (66.2°F) at their lowest end in January to 33°C (91.4°F) in the peak middle months of June, July and August. The small range of fluctuation in temperatures reveals a hallmark trait of tropical domains.
🌸 Spring (February – April)
Spring is one of the most comfortable times to visit Hoi An, with mild temperatures averaging between 24°C and 30°C. The skies are mostly clear, and humidity levels are lower than at other times of the year. This makes it ideal for walking through the lantern-lit streets, cycling to nearby rice fields, or taking boat trips on the Thu Bon River. The town is full of colour as flowers bloom, and local festivals begin to appear on the calendar. It’s also a pleasant time to visit nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains or My Son Sanctuary without the intense summer heat.
Packing tips: Lightweight clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses; a light jumper for cooler evenings; sun hat, sunglasses, and good walking shoes.
☀️ Summer (May – August)
Summer brings hotter and more humid weather, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in the middle of the day. It’s the peak season for beach lovers, with calm seas and bright sunshine along Cua Dai and An Bang beaches. However, the heat can make midday exploring quite tiring, so early morning or late afternoon walks are best. Despite the warmth, this is when the water is clearest for snorkelling and diving trips to the Cham Islands.
Packing tips: Breathable, light fabrics; a strong sunscreen; swimsuit; sandals; a reusable water bottle; and a light raincoat or umbrella for short tropical showers.
🌧 Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is a transitional period when the monsoon season begins. While September often stays warm and pleasant, October and November can bring heavy rain and occasional flooding, particularly in the Ancient Town area. Despite the weather, this is when Hoi An’s countryside turns lush and green, and the tourist crowds thin out considerably. Photographers often love this season for its dramatic skies and reflections on the wet streets.
Packing tips: Quick-drying clothes, waterproof jacket, sturdy sandals or shoes suitable for wet ground, and a dry bag to protect valuables.
🍃 Winter (December – January)
Winter in Hoi An is cooler and less humid, with average temperatures around 20°C–25°C. The skies are mostly grey, and there’s occasional drizzle, but it remains a comfortable time to wander around the town and visit temples, museums, and cafés. The beach is quieter, and swimming conditions are less ideal due to rougher seas. However, the cooler air makes sightseeing far more relaxed than during the summer.
Packing tips: Light layers, a thin jumper or light jacket, comfortable shoes, and a travel umbrella for drizzly days.
📊 Summary Chart
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Weather Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Feb – Apr | 24°C – 30°C | Mild, dry, colourful | Sightseeing, cycling, festivals |
| ☀️ Summer | May – Aug | 28°C – 35°C | Hot, sunny, humid | Beaches, water sports, Cham Islands |
| 🌧 Autumn | Sep – Nov | 25°C – 32°C | Rainy, occasional floods | Photography, fewer crowds |
| 🍃 Winter | Dec – Jan | 20°C – 25°C | Cool, cloudy, light rain | Walking, culture, cafés |
🌞 Overall Best Time to Visit
The best overall time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm, rainfall is minimal, and the countryside is full of life. It’s perfect for exploring the Ancient Town, cycling through rice fields, or taking a lantern-lit boat trip without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rain.
Where to stay in Hoi An
1. Mid Range – Hoi An TNT Villa
Hoi An TNT Villa is a charming boutique hotel that offers a peaceful escape right in the heart of Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Blending traditional Vietnamese design with modern comfort, this villa provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel instantly at home. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, featuring wooden furnishings, soft lighting, and balconies overlooking the lush gardens or inviting outdoor pool. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast, often including both local favourites and Western options, served in the open-air dining area. The staff are known for their genuine hospitality, always ready to offer helpful tips on nearby attractions, hidden cafés, and the best tailors in town. Located just a short walk from the Japanese Covered Bridge and the bustling night market, Hoi An TNT Villa is ideally situated for exploring the city’s charming streets, riverside views, and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or a convenient base for sightseeing, this villa offers excellent value and a touch of authentic Vietnamese warmth in one of Vietnam’s most picturesque towns.
2. Luxury – Grand Sunrise Palace, Hoi An
The Grand Sunrise Palace in Hoi An is a luxurious and elegant five-star resort that perfectly blends modern comfort with traditional Vietnamese charm. Located just a short distance from the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town and the golden sands of An Bang Beach, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat while keeping guests close to Hoi An’s main attractions. The architecture and design reflect the area’s cultural heritage, featuring soft lantern lighting, intricate woodwork, and lush tropical gardens that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms and suites with private balconies, some overlooking the shimmering swimming pool or rice fields beyond. The resort boasts multiple dining options, serving a variety of Vietnamese and international cuisine, along with a rooftop bar ideal for sunset views and evening cocktails. For relaxation, there’s a full-service spa offering soothing treatments, a modern fitness centre, and serene pool areas perfect for unwinding. Families are well catered for with a dedicated kids’ club and family-friendly facilities. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a wellness getaway, the Grand Sunrise Palace provides exceptional service, refined comfort, and a truly memorable Hoi An experience.
3. Budget – HY Hotel
The HY Hotel in Hoi An is a stylish and welcoming boutique accommodation that perfectly captures the charm of this ancient town while offering all the comforts of modern hospitality. Located just a short stroll from the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the hotel provides easy access to Hoi An’s famous lantern-lit streets, riverside cafés, and tailor shops. Its design blends contemporary Vietnamese aesthetics with touches of traditional architecture, creating a calm and elegant atmosphere. Each room is tastefully decorated with natural materials, soft lighting, and local artwork, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool, relax with a drink at the rooftop bar, or indulge in a soothing massage at the spa. The on-site restaurant serves a delightful mix of Vietnamese and international dishes, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Friendly and attentive staff ensure that every guest feels at home, offering personalised service and helpful tips for exploring the area. Whether you’re visiting Hoi An for its cultural heritage, beaches, or cuisine, the HY Hotel offers a perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and Vietnamese charm.
