Nestled amidst rivers, rice paddies, and beaches, Hoi An epitomizes a timeless destination. Its iconic yellow shop houses, vibrant blossoms, and lush countryside create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable days and enchanting nights. Whether strolling through its historic streets or lounging on its pristine shores, Hoi An offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. If you're lucky enough to find yourself in this former trading port, make the most of your visit with these 10 inspired ideas.
Best travel time to Hoi An
February to April: pleasant temperatures, low humidity.
June to August: the temperatures are the warmest, up to 38 ° C
September to January: the rainy season of Hoi An. October and November are wettest.
November to January: coldest temperatures, ranging from 19 to 24 ° C
Best things to do in Hoi An
While much of Hoi An's charm lies within its old town, easily explored on foot, there's a wealth of experiences beyond its historic center. Surrounding the town, you'll discover stunning rice fields, pristine beaches, captivating islands, and vibrant craft villages. To help you plan your adventures, here's a list of the top 05 attractions and most popular activities in Hoi An.
01 Walk through the Hoi An old city
Hoi An presents a captivating blend of architectural wonders, from ornate Chinese temples and a Japanese-style bridge to wooden shop buildings and French-colonial houses lining old canals. Many of these historic shops have been transformed into modern establishments catering to tourists, such as tailors, souvenir shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. The best way to soak in the city's charm is by foot, exploring both day and night when the lanterns cast a magical glow over the old town.
Among the must-see sights in Hoi An are the iconic Japanese Bridge, the Cantonese Assembly Hall, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and the Chuc Thanh Pagoda. Each of these landmarks offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor.
02 Cycle the countryside of Hoi An
Hop on a bicycle, available for rent at your hotel or local shops for just VND30,000 per day, and embark on a scenic ride from the Ancient Town towards the serene roads of Cam Thanh and Cam Chau. Along the way, you'll immerse yourself in the authentic Vietnamese countryside experience, passing by lush vegetable gardens, charming duck ponds, and quaint repair shops. Pedal at your own pace and soak in the sights and sounds of rural life, creating unforgettable memories of your time in Hoi An.
03 Relax on the Hoi An beaches
After a day of exploring Hoi An's sights on foot, take a relaxing break the next day at one of the area's beautiful beaches. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are the top choices, easily reachable by bike from the city center. Enjoy a leisurely ride to these pristine shores for a day of sun, sand, and relaxation away from the city hustle.
04 Take a boat trip in Hoi An
Hoi An provides numerous chances to experience its waterways. Exploring the city's river routes is a must—rent a boat, paddle your way, or join a guided tour to witness life along the water. Simply stroll from the old town to the river, where you'll find a plethora of boat trips along the Thu Bon River. Alternatively, head to Cam Thanh Village for a unique opportunity to paddle through coconut forests in a traditional basket boat.
05 Enjoy Hoi An Memories Show
Catch the Memories Show every evening, except Tuesdays, from 7:30 to 8:45 pm. This captivating spectacle, set on a sprawling 25,000 square meter outdoor stage, is the highlight of Hoi An Memories. With over 500 actors and dancers, the show brings 400 years of history to life. While it showcases major historical events, the true enchantment lies in its portrayal of everyday life. Hundreds of actors depict the timeless routines of daily existence, with no dialogue or scripts—just the city itself as the main character, and time as the narrator weaving through the ages.
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