Hoi An is sometimes overlooked when traveling through Vietnam. However, there are some things to do in Hoi An that are uniquely Vietnamese, so it’s worth a stop.
I spent 4 days here while my partner got his advanced diving certification, and it wasn’t hard to keep myself busy.
You will explore yellow-washed buildings, historic places of worship, enjoy lantern-lit nights, and have a chance to really connect with the local people.
Here are 14 cool things you can do on your next visit to Hoi An Vietnam!
Where is Hoi An Located?
Hoi An is located on the central coast of Vietnam, in Quang Nam Province. It’s about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang, a major city that also has the closest airport.
Nestled between rice paddies, rivers, and the sea, Hoi An offers easy access to both beaches and the countryside. The Thu Bon River runs right through town, adding to the peaceful scenery and historical charm.
Thanks to its location, Hoi An makes a great stop whether you’re traveling north to south or vice versa. Buses, taxis, and private cars from Da Nang make getting here easy.
A Brief History of Hoi An
Hoi An wasn’t always the little lantern town we know today. From the 15th to the 19th century, it was one of Southeast Asia’s most important trading ports.
Merchants from Japan, China, Portugal, France, and the Netherlands all passed through, leaving behind architectural and cultural influences.
That’s why the Old Town feels like a mix of worlds—Vietnamese shops, Japanese bridges, and Chinese temples all within walking distance.
The town gradually quieted down after its river silted up in the late 19th century, making it less accessible to large ships. But this also helped preserve its historic charm.
Today, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Vietnam’s best-preserved towns.
Vietnam Tips
- Water Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink. Opt for bottled water. Some venues will offer filtered water for free.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
- Bring Cash: Many local eateries will only take cash. However many stores and restaurants will take credit cards. ATMs dispense up to 3 million dong at once.
- Language: Vietnamese, however many locals speak English. Use Google Translate when needed.
- Visa: Many tourists do need a visa. Check your requirements here.
- Dress Modestly in Temples: Do not show your shoulders or knees at places of worship.
- Bathroom Etiquette: Do NOT put toilet paper in the toilet! Most venues do offer tissues and trash cans as needed.
- Food Etiquette: Food comes out fast but not always at the same time.
- Tipping Etiquette: It is not expected however it is typical to round up the bill as a tip.
14 Unique Things to Do in Hoi An Vietnam
Many visitors only plan to spend 1-2 days here however there is enough to do for a week or longer. Plus, if you plan on getting clothes made, you need at least 3-4 days for the tailoring appointments.
Here are some very unique things to do in Vietnam that you can only do in Hoi An!
#1 Take a Tour of the “Gems” of Hoi An
By far the best thing I did in Hoi An wasn’t getting clothes made or taking a lantern boat ride – it was a food tour through side streets and meeting local business owners.
This guided walking tour takes you through serene alleyways and hidden courtyards, revealing the stories behind ancient houses, temples, and communal spaces that have shaped Hoi An’s heritage.
The tour typically lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours, and you do walk a lot, so wear sneakers.
We had a LOT of food such as Kungfu cake, ambarella juice, Xi Ma, Cao Lau Thanh, and of course, a Banh Mi. Plus you get to visit locals’ homes and see the oldest noodle factory in Hoi An.
For more details or to book this tour, visit the Hidden Gems of Old Hoi An page on TripAdvisor.
#2 Ride Bikes Through the Rice Fields
This is one of my favorite physical things to do in Hoi An. Rent a bicycle, grab a bottle of water, and just pedal.
Head east out of the Old Town (towards An Bang Beach) and within minutes, you’ll be surrounded by lush green rice fields. The roads are quiet, flat, and full of natural beauty. Locals wave as you pass by water buffalo and ducks crossing the road.
It’s easy to navigate, and perfect for sunrise or late afternoon rides. You don’t need a guide. But if you want local stories along the way, join a guided bike tour that will add context to the scenery.
Pro Tip:
Some scooter drivers will ride very close to you, as well as honk constantly. They are honking to let you know that they are behind you, not that you’re in the way!
#3 Take a Spin in a Basket Boat
Vietnam’s famous round coconut boats (called thung chai) are a must-try and a total blast.
Head to Cam Thanh village, where locals will take you on a short (about 20 minutes), but fun ride, through the water coconut groves. It’s one one-part boat ride, a part mini-show as your guide might spin the boat in circles or perform tricks.
It’s touristy but totally worth it. You’ll laugh, probably get a bit wet, and walk away with a fun video for your Instagram. Kids especially love this activity. Learn more here.
#4 Float a Lantern Down the River
At night, the Thu Bon River glows with floating lanterns. Buy a small paper lantern from a vendor on the river (they’re cheap), make a wish, and release it into the river.
You can also hop on a short boat ride to do this from the water, which makes the whole experience even more magical.
Do it after dinner for the best views. The river reflects all the light and it’s like sailing through a painting. It’s a quiet, beautiful moment in the middle of a lively town.
#5 Join a Free Walking Tour
Looking to save some money? Then there’s no better way to learn about Hoi An’s rich history than walking through it with a local who knows the hidden gems.
Check out free walking tours run by students—they’re often eager to practice English and share personal stories. You’ll visit hidden temples, old houses, and markets while getting a feel for the city’s heartbeat.
If I hadn’t gone on this tour, I wouldn’t have understood the cultural diversity in the city.
You’ll also hear fun facts and historical insights that you wouldn’t get on your own. Tips are appreciated at the end, but there’s no pressure.
Fun Things to Do in Hoi An
#6 Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Hoi An is famous for its food, and taking a cooking class here is not just educational—it’s delicious and memorable.
Most classes start with a visit to the market where you’ll learn how to pick out fresh ingredients. Then comes a scenic boat ride followed by hands-on cooking in a peaceful garden kitchen.
Learn to make dishes like cao lầu noodles, white rose dumplings, and crispy bánh xèo pancakes.
Check out this class on Get Your Guide.
#7 Try Local Cocktails with a Twist
Cocktails in Hoi An aren’t just about rum and coke. Bars here get creative with fresh ingredients and local flair.
Check out Mexcal Cocterleria, and Market Bar for drinks infused with lemongrass, chili, basil, and tropical fruit. Some even use rice wine or house-made syrups for a truly unique experience.
Ask for a Hoi An special or something bold and spicy. Happy hours usually run from 5 to 7 pm and many spots offer great rooftop or river views.
#8 Chill on An Bang Beach
Only about 10 minutes from the center of Hoi An, An Bang Beach is a laid-back escape from the town’s buzz.
It’s clean, relaxed, and offers great views with fewer crowds than some of Vietnam’s other beaches. Lounge chairs, umbrellas, and chilled drinks are easy to find.
You’ll find small beach bars playing soft music, fresh seafood restaurants right on the sand, and the occasional fire show at night. Head there for sunset to catch the golden hour in full glory.
#9 Explore Tra Que Vegetable Village
Want something really unique? Visit Tra Que, a lush little farming village just a bike ride away from the center.
You can walk through the gardens, chat with farmers, and even join a hands-on experience like planting herbs or harvesting vegetables. The soil is rich with natural seaweed compost and the produce is incredibly fresh.
Some tours end with a fresh farm-to-table lunch that’s both healthy and flavorful. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese cooking and the simple lifestyle of this peaceful village.
Check out the full itinerary here on GetYourGuide.
#10 Shop for Custom Clothes
Hoi An is world-famous for tailor-made clothes and you’d be missing out if you didn’t at least window shop.
Within 24-48 hours, you can get a custom suit, dress, jacket, or even leather shoes made to fit you perfectly. Bring Pinterest inspiration or browse design books at the shop to save time figuring out what you want to get.
Trusted tailors like Bebe Tailor and Kimmy are well-known for their quality, service, and wide variety of materials. We used BeBe as our hotel had recommended it.
It is usually harder for me and my partner to find certain clothes that fit right, so we had 1 pair of shorts and 4 button-up shirts made for about $200 USD. Seems pricy but they fit us correctly, so it was worth it. We only had to go back once for a second fitting.
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#11 Experience the Hoi An Memories Show
Held at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, this grand spectacle features over 500 performers on a vast outdoor stage, narrating 400 years of the town’s heritage through mesmerizing choreography and storytelling.
The show beautifully encapsulates Hoi An’s evolution from a tranquil village to a bustling trading port, offering a deep dive into its cultural tapestry.
Performances are scheduled from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the theme park opening its doors at 4:00 PM. It’s advisable to arrive early to explore the park’s attractions and secure a good seat for the show.
Tickets can be purchased through GetYourGuide, ensuring a seamless experience
Where to Eat and Drink in Hoi An Vietnam
# 12 Try Local Food Spots
Hoi An’s food is an adventure on its own. Don’t miss Banh Mi Phuong (Anthony Bourdain loved it) and Madam Khanh for the best banh mi in town.
For something more relaxed and local, try Com Ga Ba Buoi for Hoi An-style chicken rice, or the classic cao lầu at Morning Glory restaurant. Their noodles are chewy, smoky, and made the traditional way.
Street food lovers should head to the Night Market. Try grilled skewers, mango sticky rice, fried spring rolls, and Vietnamese pizza made on rice paper.
Just keep in mind that down by the river at night it gets very busy and it can be hard to maneuver through the crowds.
# 13 Check out Some Speakeasies
Hoi An isn’t a full-blown party town, but it has some hidden bars if you know where to look.
Check out Mộng Nguyệt (Secret Bar) which is pictured above. You will enter a Japanese tea shop and head up a steep flight of stairs to find the bar. Next to that bar, down an alley is KoFi Hoi An which is a dive-like speakeasy.
Most bars close around 11 pm due to local rules, but some like Hair of the Dog stay open later. Ask your hostel or local bartender for the latest info—things change often.
#14 Try Local Beer
Head to places like Homies Craft Beer or 7 Bridges Taproom to sample Vietnamese-style craft beers, including tropical IPAs, light lagers, and seasonal brews.
Some bars even pair their beers with local snacks and also have live bands. 7 Bridges had my favorite sour beer I had in Vietnam!
It’s a laid-back way to taste something local and kick back after a long day of exploring.
Should You Rent a Scooter in Hoi An?
Yes and no. It depends on your comfort level and your plans.
If you want to explore beyond the Old Town—like visiting rice paddies, beaches, or Marble Mountain—a scooter is super handy. It gives you flexibility and freedom.
But driving in the Old Town is tricky. The streets are narrow and filled with pedestrians, and traffic rules are loose at best. Plus, motorbikes are banned from the Old Town during certain hours—9 am to 11 am and again from 3 pm to 9:30 pm.
Bicycles are a great alternative for short trips. If it’s hot, biking can be tiring, but it’s manageable in the early morning or late afternoon.
Where to Stay: Hoi An Hotels
Budget travelers should check out Fuse Old Town Hoi An Hostel. It is clean, fun, and social, offering activities like walking tours, family dinners, and pub crawls.
If you want something mid-range, look into Lip Lip Villa. It is a 20-minute walk from the old town but it was super quiet, clean, and had a pool. I paid $30 USD per night with breakfast included.
For luxury lovers, check out the Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort. Expect beautiful rooms, amazing pools, and next-level service. Perfect for honeymooners or those who just want to treat themselves.
Hoi An Accommodation Options:
- Hostel (Private Room Options): Fuse Old Town Hoi An
- Mid-Level Hotel: Hoianese Lip Lip Pool Hotel
- High-End Hotel: Almanity Hoi An Resort
Weather in Hoi An
Hoi An has two main seasons: dry and wet. I visited in March when it was supposed to be the dry season, however, it rained for the majority of my one-month visit to Vietnam.
The dry season historically runs from February to August. Expect sunny days, blue skies, and perfect beach weather.
July and August are the hottest months—sometimes reaching above 95 Fahrenheit (35°Celcius)
From September to January, the rainy season hits. October and November are usually the wettest months, and occasional flooding can happen.
Make sure you bring at least one pair of lightweight pants in the early months of the dry season as it can get cold at night.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Hoi An
Hoi An was the kind of place that totally surprised me—in the best way. I expected lanterns and pretty photos, but I left with stories, friendships, and a backpack full of tailored clothes (literally).
Whether you’re into food, culture, beach days, or hands-on experiences, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Hoi An. It’s walkable, welcoming, and somehow both calm and buzzing with life all at once.
Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need here. Trust me—this little town has a way of making you want to slow down, stay longer, and soak up every moment!
Hoi An Visitor Facts
Can you walk everywhere in Hoi An?
Yes! The Old Town is very walkable, and most attractions are close enough to explore on foot or by bicycle.
Is Hoi An still worth visiting?
Absolutely—Hoi An remains one of Vietnam’s most magical towns, full of history, great food, and unforgettable experiences.
How many days do you need in Hoi An?
Ideally 3 to 5 days—enough time for tailoring, exploring, eating, and unwinding at the beach.
Should I spend more time in Hoi An or Da Nang?
Hoi An offers more charm, culture, and unique activities, so if you have to choose—spend more time in Hoi An if you are just visiting. If you are staying long term, choose Da Nang.
When to avoid Hoi An?
October and November are typically the rainiest months, with a higher chance of flooding and canceled outdoor plans.
Do you need cash in Hoi An?
Yes—many local restaurants and market stalls are cash-only, although larger venues may accept cards.
Is Hoi An safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Hoi An is generally very safe and welcoming for solo travelers, including solo female travelers.
What is Hoi An famous for in Vietnam?
Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved Old Town, tailor-made clothing, lantern festival, and fusion of historical cultures.
Is the lantern festival every night?
No, the official Lantern Festival happens once a month during the full moon, but lanterns are still lit most evenings.
Can you swim at Hoi An beaches?
Yes, beaches like An Bang are clean, swimmable, and have chairs and umbrellas available for rent.
Is there much to do in Hoi An?
Yes—there’s a wide variety of things to do in Hoi An, from cycling through rice fields to taking cooking classes and exploring ancient sites.
Is it safe to walk around Hoi An at night?
Yes, Hoi An is very safe at night, especially around the Old Town where the streets are well-lit and lively.
What to do in Hoi An in 3 days?
In 3 days, you can explore the Old Town, take a lantern boat ride, try a cooking class, get custom clothes, and relax at the beach.
