HOI AN CITY GUIDE
Welcome
One of the most popular travel locations in Vietnam is Hoi An - ancient, quaint and tranquil. Visitors from many countries and with varying tastes are catered to in Hoi An with its ideal location for relaxing by the river and taking in the sunset over the water. Take a stroll (or bike) through the ancient town and enjoy the regional specialties.
Due to the effects of many diverse cultures and the repercussions of historical events, Hoi An's ancient town features a harmonious fusion of numerous architecture that give it special qualities.
When to go: The best time to visit Hoi An is during the cooler but dry months – February & March being the most ideal. Temperature during these months would be a cool 20-26C. April - September sees the warmest weather, ideal for the beach.
Welcome
One of the most popular travel locations in Vietnam is Hoi An - ancient, quaint and tranquil. Visitors from many countries and with varying tastes are catered to in Hoi An with its ideal location for relaxing by the river and taking in the sunset over the water. Take a stroll (or bike) through the ancient town and enjoy the regional specialties.
Due to the effects of many diverse cultures and the repercussions of historical events, Hoi An's ancient town features a harmonious fusion of numerous architecture that give it special qualities.
When to go: The best time to visit Hoi An is during the cooler but dry months – February & March being the most ideal. Temperature during these months would be a cool 20-26C. April - September sees the warmest weather, ideal for the beach.
Our favourite neighbourhoods
Choosing the best neighborhood to stay in as a tourist depends on your interests, preferences, and what you want to experience during your visit. Here are some of the most popular and diverse neighborhoods that offer fantastic experiences for tourists:
Ancient Town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is the heart of the city, featuring well-preserved historic architecture, narrow lanes, and lantern-lit evenings. It's a vibrant blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
Cam Pho
Cam Pho is known for its charming riverside setting and historic pagodas. Visitors can explore the Phap Bao Pagoda and enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Hoai River, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance of this neighborhood.
Minh An
Minh An is the center of Hoi An’s nightlife and street food scene. With its bustling markets, vibrant bars, and street vendors, it’s the perfect spot to experience the lively energy of Hoi An after dark.
Cam Thanh
Cam Thanh is famous for its lush coconut palm forests and eco-tourism activities. Visitors can enjoy a traditional bamboo basket boat ride through the water coconut groves, offering a unique perspective of Hoi An’s natural beauty.
Cam Chau
Cam Chau is a tranquil neighborhood known for its picturesque countryside and rice paddies. It’s an ideal spot for cycling tours, allowing visitors to experience the rural charm and traditional way of life in Hoi An.
Tan An
Tan An is a gateway to Hoi An’s cultural heritage, featuring several historic temples and pagodas. This neighborhood offers a quieter, more local experience, with opportunities to explore traditional crafts and local markets.
Cua Dai
Cua Dai is a coastal neighborhood famous for its beautiful beach. Visitors can relax on the white sand, swim in the clear waters, and dine at beachfront seafood restaurants, all just a short drive from the Ancient Town.
An Bang
An Bang is a laid-back beach neighborhood known for its vibrant beach bars and eateries. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and fresh seafood in a relaxed setting.
Tra Que
Tra Que is a peaceful farming village located just outside the city. Famous for its organic vegetables and herbs, visitors can participate in farming activities, enjoy cooking classes, and indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences.
Thanh Ha
Thanh Ha is a traditional pottery village where visitors can watch artisans create beautiful ceramics by hand. The neighborhood is rich in craft heritage, offering workshops where you can try your hand at making your own pottery.
Our favourite neighbourhoods
Choosing the best neighborhood to stay in as a tourist depends on your interests, preferences, and what you want to experience during your visit. Here are some of the most popular and diverse neighborhoods that offer fantastic experiences for tourists:
Ancient Town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is the heart of the city, featuring well-preserved historic architecture, narrow lanes, and lantern-lit evenings. It's a vibrant blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
Cam Pho
Cam Pho is known for its charming riverside setting and historic pagodas. Visitors can explore the Phap Bao Pagoda and enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Hoai River, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance of this neighborhood.
Minh An
Minh An is the center of Hoi An’s nightlife and street food scene. With its bustling markets, vibrant bars, and street vendors, it’s the perfect spot to experience the lively energy of Hoi An after dark.
Cam Thanh
Cam Thanh is famous for its lush coconut palm forests and eco-tourism activities. Visitors can enjoy a traditional bamboo basket boat ride through the water coconut groves, offering a unique perspective of Hoi An’s natural beauty.
Cam Chau
Cam Chau is a tranquil neighborhood known for its picturesque countryside and rice paddies. It’s an ideal spot for cycling tours, allowing visitors to experience the rural charm and traditional way of life in Hoi An.
Tan An
Tan An is a gateway to Hoi An’s cultural heritage, featuring several historic temples and pagodas. This neighborhood offers a quieter, more local experience, with opportunities to explore traditional crafts and local markets.
Cua Dai
Cua Dai is a coastal neighborhood famous for its beautiful beach. Visitors can relax on the white sand, swim in the clear waters, and dine at beachfront seafood restaurants, all just a short drive from the Ancient Town.
An Bang
An Bang is a laid-back beach neighborhood known for its vibrant beach bars and eateries. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sea, and fresh seafood in a relaxed setting.
Tra Que
Tra Que is a peaceful farming village located just outside the city. Famous for its organic vegetables and herbs, visitors can participate in farming activities, enjoy cooking classes, and indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences.
Thanh Ha
Thanh Ha is a traditional pottery village where visitors can watch artisans create beautiful ceramics by hand. The neighborhood is rich in craft heritage, offering workshops where you can try your hand at making your own pottery.
EXPERIENCES THERE WILL FOLLOW YOU HOME
Hoi An Ancient Town
Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved architecture, narrow streets, and lantern-lit evenings. Visitors can explore ancient temples, traditional houses, and vibrant markets, experiencing a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultural influences.
Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, dates back to the 16th century. This beautifully crafted bridge, with its ornate carvings and historic significance, connects the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the town, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the area.
Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Thanh Ha Pottery Village is famous for its centuries-old pottery tradition. Visitors can watch local artisans at work, try their hand at pottery making, and browse a wide range of beautiful handcrafted ceramics, making it an engaging cultural experience in Hoi An.
My Son Sanctuary
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Hoi An, is an ancient complex of Hindu temples dating back to the Champa Kingdom. Surrounded by lush greenery, these ruins offer a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s ancient history and religious heritage.
Cam Thanh Coconut Village
Also known as the “Water Coconut Village,” offers a unique eco-tourism experience. Visitors can explore the water coconut palm forests by traditional bamboo basket boats, enjoy crab fishing, and learn about the area’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.
Lantern-Making Workshop
Participate in a lantern-making workshop, a unique cultural experience in Hoi An. Learn the traditional craft of creating beautiful lanterns from local artisans, and take home your handmade lantern as a memorable souvenir from your visit to this charming town.
RECOMMENDED SHOPPING
Tips:
Be prepared to bargain and double check with other sellers for the best price. Some sellers offer better price if you buy more.
When you want to have leather items or fabric, you should see the leather first to make sure the quality is good. It’s better to shop for lanterns at night when they are lit up.
Reaching Out
Reaching Out is a must-visit in Hoi An, offering beautifully handcrafted homewares, jewelry, and gifts. This social enterprise empowers local artisans, many with disabilities, to create unique, high-quality products. Shopping here not only supports sustainable craftsmanship but also brings home a piece of Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage.
Yaly Couture
Yaly Couture is Hoi An's premier destination for bespoke tailoring. Known for its meticulous craftsmanship and luxurious fabrics, Yaly offers custom-made clothing that perfectly fits your style and needs. With a wide selection of materials and expert tailors, it’s the go-to spot for high-quality, personalized fashion.
Sunday in Hoi An
A chic boutique offering locally-designed clothing, accessories, and home decor. The store features a curated selection of stylish, contemporary pieces that blend modern aesthetics with traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Perfect for finding unique, fashionable items that capture the essence of Hoi An.
TOP DINING IN HOI AN
Banh Mi Phuong
was celebrated on television by Anthony Bourdain (and since), nowadays flocked by both tourists and locals. Fresh ingredients, home-made pates and sauces keep it the favourite spot for a Hoi An Banh Mi.
Pho Xua
Specializes in traditional local dish 'cao lau'. High quality but still inexpensive is the winning formula here. The ingredients are fresh and expertly prepared.
White Rose
Is an iconic entree featured in nearly every Hoi An-based Vietnamese menu it’s intriguing to learn that most white rose dumplings are supplied by just one Vietnamese restaurant in Hoi An to all the others. The local family has kept the recipe under wraps and that Tran Tuan Ngai at White Rose Restaurant is the third generation protector of this very tasty family secret. Steamed rice paper is wrapped around a specially seasoned shrimp and/or pork mix and a singular dipping sauce of shrimp broth, chillies, lime and sugar.
Morning Glory
An open-plan kitchen with four busy chefs, wonderful aromas, flambé flames and waiters laden with plates - Hoi An’s iconic Ms Vy has created a street food oriented menu with historical descriptions of each element as crowds flock. Try sautéed prawns served in a whole coconut, fresh mackerel in banana leaf or the green mango salad among many options.
The Hoianian
As a Vietnamese restaurant/wine bar that has one of the best wine lists in Hoi An. It also has a superb selection of Vietnamese, fusion and international dishes that never fail to satisfy. Mains include Tiger Prawns with Tamarind Sauce, Duck with Cashew Nuts, Vietnamese Curry, Grilled Fish in Banana Leaf and twists on staples like Cao Lau and My Quang at very reasonable prices.
Tip: Book ahead to secure a balcony table with a great view of the river and passers-by below.
We start in Hoi An
Check out 3 of our handmade itineraries that all begin in Tokyo, each promising a unique and thrilling journey. Discover distinct adventures that unfold beyond the city's boundaries, each one offering its own blend of experiences and memories waiting to be made. Your Tokyo starting point is just the beginning of these unforgettable escapades.
FAMILY TRAVEL
DISCOVERY TRAVEL
PRIVATE TRAVEL
LUXPERIA APPROVED HOTELS
We've carefully curated a diverse range of options to cater to all preferences, from luxurious 5 star city-center choices to charming 3 star boutique hotels in unique neighborhoods.
Our selection ensures top-notch quality and service, guaranteeing a memorable stay. Benefit from insider knowledge to make the most of your Hoi An visit. Whether you're a business traveler, a family, or a couple, Luxperia Approved hotels are the perfect choice for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, backed by trusted hoteliers.
Little Oasis Hoi An
Little Oasis Hoi An is a boutique resort that offers a serene escape in the heart of Hoi An. Surrounded by lush greenery, the resort combines modern comforts with traditional Vietnamese charm, providing guests with an intimate and relaxing experience just minutes away from the Ancient Town.
Bay Resort Hoi An
Bay Resort Hoi An is a luxurious waterfront retreat offering stunning views of the Thu Bon River. With its elegant design, world-class amenities, and close proximity to Hoi An’s historic sites, it’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Bel Marina Resort Hoi An
Bel Marina Resort Hoi An is a chic riverside resort that blends contemporary style with local heritage. Offering spacious rooms, a beautiful infinity pool, and easy access to Hoi An’s attractions, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy both luxury and the vibrant culture of the area.
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