Hoi An Travel Guide: What to See, Do & Eat in Vietnam’s Most Charming Town

Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage town on Vietnam’s central coast, and stepping into its lantern-lit Old Town feels like stepping back in time. Once a bustling trading port, the city carries the influence of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultures in its architecture, food, and traditions, creating one of the most atmospheric places you can visit in the country.

There’s a reason Hoi An makes it onto nearly every Vietnam itinerary. Mornings begin with bike rides past emerald rice fields, afternoons drift by exploring tailor shops or cafés along the Thu Bồn River, and evenings glow with floating lanterns that light up the water. It’s a town that feels like a blend of history, culture, and everyday magic. Add in some of Vietnam’s best food and warmest locals, and it’s the kind of place travelers fall in love with-and often wish they never had to leave.

Hoi An Tips

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s a cash-first culture, so keep small bills handy. Cards are accepted in higher-end hotels and restaurants, but street food, cafés, and taxis are almost always cash-only.
Language: Vietnamese is the official language. English is widely spoken in hotels, tour companies, and some restaurants, but not everywhere. Download Google Translate for menus and quick conversations.
Weather: Tropical climate with two main seasons - dry (Feb–Aug) and wet (Sept–Jan). Summers are hot and humid, winters cooler and wetter.
Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples. Bargaining is normal in markets, but keep it lighthearted.
Explore Early: Old Town fills up quickly with day trippers. Mornings are quieter and best for photos.
Connectivity: SIM cards are cheap at the airport (~$5–10 USD for unlimited data). Grab requires a local number, so it’s worth picking one up. I used an eSIM through Airalo and had great service across Vietnam.
Scams & Safety: Hoi An is generally safe, but watch for inflated prices at tailor shops and taxis. Always confirm before you buy or ride.

When to Visit Hoi An

Hoi An has something to offer in every season, but the experience shifts with the weather:

February–April (Spring): The most popular time to visit. Days are warm and dry, perfect for exploring Old Town, cycling through rice paddies, or taking day trips to An Bang Beach.

May–August (Summer): Hot and humid, with highs often over 33°C (91°F). Ideal for beach lovers, as the water is calm and inviting, though the Old Town is busiest in the evenings.

September–November (Autumn / Rainy Season): Heavy rains and occasional flooding make this a riskier season, but with fewer crowds and lower prices, it’s peaceful if you don’t mind a downpour or two.

December–January (Winter): Cooler and damp, not great for the beach, but the lantern festivals light up the Old Town beautifully, making it feel especially atmospheric.

How Many Days in Hoi An?

Plan for 3–4 days to really enjoy Hoi An at a relaxed pace. This gives you enough time to wander the Old Town by day and again at night when the lanterns glow, spend an afternoon at An Bang Beach, take a cooking class, and get something custom-made from one of the many tailors.

Two days is possible if you’re on a tight itinerary - you’ll see the highlights - but it will feel rushed, and you’ll likely wish you had stayed longer. On the other end, some travelers happily spend a week here, using Hoi An as a base for day trips to Da Nang, the Marble Mountains, or My Son Sanctuary. The charm of the town makes it easy to linger.

Getting Around

Walking: Hoi An’s Old Town is pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. Most streets are closed to cars and motorbikes during certain hours, which makes wandering between lantern-lit alleys, cafés, and riverside shops feel safe and leisurely. At night, when the lanterns glow, walking is the most magical way to take it all in.
Grab: Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber) is the easiest and most affordable way to get around beyond Old Town. You can book scooters or cars through the app, and rides are usually just a few dollars. It’s reliable, quick, and a good option for getting to the beach or to/from Da Nang airport.
Biking: Many hotels and guesthouses provide free bicycles, and this is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore. Ride through quiet backroads and rice paddies, or cycle the 15–20 minutes out to An Bang Beach. The flat landscape makes it easy, even for casual riders.

How to Get to Hoi An

Fly: The closest airport is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), about 45 minutes from Hoi An by car. There are daily flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and several international hubs (like Bangkok and Singapore). From the airport, you can book a Grab, private transfer, or shuttle directly to Hoi An.
Overnight Bus: Long-distance buses connect Hoi An with major cities such as Hue, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. They’re one of the cheapest options, but expect cramped sleeper bunks and variable comfort levels. Good if you’re on a budget, less so if you value rest.
Train: There’s no train station in Hoi An, but you can take the train to Da Nang Railway Station and then grab a taxi or Grab (around 45 minutes). The train ride along Vietnam’s coast, especially from Hue to Da Nang, is considered one of the most scenic in the country.
Private Car / Shuttle: Many hotels in Hoi An can arrange private transfers or shared shuttles from Da Nang airport or train station. It’s more expensive than Grab, but convenient if you want a stress-free door-to-door ride.

Hoi An Hotels

Hoi An has accommodations for every type of traveler, from budget-friendly boutique stays to luxury beachfront resorts. Here are some of the best options, each with its own personality:

Anio Boutique Hotel – A stylish mid-range pick with a pool, bright modern rooms, and warm service. Great value if you want comfort without splurging.
Nam An Mama Villa – Cozy, family-run, and known for genuine hospitality. Rooms are simple but welcoming, and staying here feels like being part of the neighborhood.
Thalia Boutique Hotel – Contemporary design with thoughtful details, centrally located for exploring Old Town. Perfect for couples who want a chic stay.
Dechiu Hotel – Artsy and design-forward, this boutique stay near An Bang Beach is a favorite for creatives. Expect natural textures, local crafts, and a stylish café on-site.
Namia River Retreat – A riverside escape blending boutique design with nature. Great if you want to balance access to Old Town with a tranquil setting.
Reu Toi An Boutique Hotel – Intimate and beautifully decorated, with a strong sense of local charm. Ideal for travelers who value unique touches and authenticity.
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – The ultimate splurge. A beachfront resort with private villas, infinity pools, and five-star service. Best for honeymoons, special occasions, or if you want to experience Hoi An at its most luxurious.

Explore Hoi An

Hoi An is small, but it’s packed with experiences that capture the spirit of Vietnam. Whether you’re wandering its lantern-lit streets, riding a bike through rice paddies, or learning something new, the town has a way of making even simple moments feel special.

Nighttime Lantern Boat Ride – The most iconic experience in Hoi An. As the sun sets, the Old Town comes alive with glowing lanterns, and small boats drift across the Thu Bồn River. It’s touristy, yes, but also undeniably magical.
Get Custom Clothes Made – Tailoring is part of Hoi An’s DNA. You can have linen outfits, dresses, or suits made in a matter of days. Try Milan Tailor for linen, 45 Thu Tailor (ask for Auntie Ha), or 41 Tailor for friendly service and fair prices. Be sure to bring inspiration photos and allow time for fittings.
Sunrise Hidden Gems Tour – One of the best ways to see the quieter side of Hoi An and one of my favorite things I did on my trip. This Airbnb experience takes you through rice paddies, hidden temples, and local markets before the crowds arrive. The early light is gorgeous for photos, too.
Vy’s Market Tour & Cooking Class – Learn the secrets behind Hoi An’s signature dishes. This class starts with a trip to the market and ends with hands-on cooking. It’s interactive, fun, and a delicious way to spend half a day.
Custom Rings at Lotus Leaf Fine Arts & Jewelry – If tailoring clothes isn’t your thing, treat yourself to jewelry instead. Lotus Leaf makes beautiful, handmade rings inspired by local motifs like lotus flowers and leaves.
Try Cao Lầu & Bánh Mì – Two foods you can’t leave without trying. Cao lầu is a noodle dish unique to Hoi An, made with pork, herbs, and crunchy croutons, and Bánh Mì here is legendary (thanks in part to Anthony Bourdain).
Hoi An’s Beaches – Just a 15–20 minute bike ride from Old Town, both An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach make for the perfect escape. An Bang is lively, lined with beach bars and seafood shacks, while Cua Dai is quieter and better for long walks. The water is warm, the sand is soft, and it’s the best way to balance city exploration with relaxation.

Hoi An Restaurants & Cafés

Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise. From street food stalls made famous by Anthony Bourdain to plant-based brunch spots and riverside restaurants, the dining scene here is as varied as it is delicious. These are the places that stood out most:

Quán Cao Lầu Thanh – The go-to spot for Hoi An’s signature noodle dish, cao lầu. A no-frills eatery where the flavor does all the talking. Order the classic bowl and taste why it’s beloved by locals.
Bánh Mì Phượng – Anthony Bourdain put this place on the map, and the line out the door proves it. Crispy baguettes stuffed with pork, herbs, and pâté - still one of the best bánh mì in town.
Bánh Mì Queen (Madame Khánh) – Another institution, often called the “rival” to Phượng. Madame Khánh has been making bánh mì for decades, and her loyal following swears by it.
Bánh Mì Mr Hiệu – A smaller shop favored by locals. Less famous than the others but equally tasty — great if you want to skip the crowds.
Morning Glory – A restaurant that balances traditional recipes with a slightly more polished setting. Perfect if you want classic Hoi An dishes in a sit-down environment.
Nourish Eatery – Plant-based and fresh, this spot has smoothie bowls, salads, and brunch plates. A good change of pace if you’ve been eating a lot of street food.
The Inner Hoi An by Ala – Elevated dining with a modern twist on Vietnamese cuisine. Stylish interior and creative plating make it a good choice for a nice dinner.
Faifo Coffee – Rooftop views over the lantern-filled Old Town. Go for an iced Vietnamese coffee and watch the sunset over the tiled rooftops.
Mót Tea – A tiny street-side stall serving a refreshing herbal iced tea with lemongrass and lime. Photogenic, cheap, and incredibly refreshing in the heat.
Fefe Roasters – Specialty coffee spot with a modern, minimal design. Great for digital nomads or anyone craving third-wave coffee in between sightseeing.

Hoi An is the kind of place that feels like it belongs in a storybook - lanterns glowing along the river, bikes weaving through rice paddies, tailors stitching clothes just for you, and food so good you’ll still be craving it weeks later. It’s historic and atmospheric, yet alive with everyday energy, making it one of the most memorable stops in Vietnam.

Whether you spend your days exploring Old Town, taking a cooking class, or unwinding on An Bang Beach, you’ll quickly understand why so many travelers say Hoi An is their favorite city in the country. Plan at least a few days here, and don’t be surprised if you leave already planning your return.

If you’re building a Vietnam itinerary, make sure to also check out my guides on Hanoi and Hạ Long Bay - both pair perfectly with a visit to Hoi An for a trip that shows you the very best of northern and central Vietnam.

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