Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town, riverside charm, and rich cultural heritage. With a population of around 120,000, this small coastal city is famous for its ancient architecture, tailor shops, and lantern-lit streets. Visitors often fall in love with the old-world charm, relaxed pace of life, and scenic riverside views.

 

1. Tourist Attractions

  • Hoi An Ancient Town

    • Highlights: The heart of Hoi An, this well-preserved town is a living museum of architecture and culture, featuring old houses, temples, and Chinese assembly halls. Walking through the lantern-lit streets in the evening is a magical experience.
    • Entrance Fee: 120,000 VND (~5 USD), which includes admission to five attractions (houses, temples, museums, etc.).
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7 for walking around, but museums and houses are typically open from 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
    • Getting There: Located in central Hoi An, it’s easy to reach by foot or bike if you’re staying nearby. Taxis or shuttles from Da Nang (30 km away) are available.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge

    • Highlights: One of Hoi An’s most iconic landmarks, this 18th-century bridge was built by the Japanese community and features beautiful carvings. It’s a great spot for photos and learning about Hoi An’s multicultural history.
    • Entrance Fee: Included in the Ancient Town ticket.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
    • Getting There: Located at the end of Tran Phu Street in the Ancient Town.

  • Tan Ky Old House

    • Highlights: This 200-year-old merchant’s house showcases traditional Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences. The house has been preserved through seven generations and offers a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Hoi An family.
    • Entrance Fee: Included in the Ancient Town ticket.
    • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
    • Getting There: Located in the heart of Ancient Town on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.

  • Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien)

    • Highlights: This ornate Chinese assembly hall, built in the late 1600s, is dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea. Its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit.
    • Entrance Fee: Included in the Ancient Town ticket.
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
    • Getting There: Located in Ancient Town on Tran Phu Street.

  • Hoi An Riverside

    • Highlights: The Thu Bon River runs through Hoi An, offering beautiful views and a chance to experience the daily life of locals. You can take a boat ride, release paper lanterns into the water, or simply enjoy a riverside stroll.
    • Entrance Fee: Free (boat rides range from 50,000 – 100,000 VND per person).
    • Opening Hours: Always open, but the most magical time to visit is at sunset.
    • Getting There: Easily accessible by foot or bike from anywhere in the Ancient Town.

  • Tra Que Vegetable Village

    • Highlights: A short ride from the Ancient Town, this peaceful farming village offers an immersive experience in local agriculture. You can learn about traditional farming techniques and even participate in the planting or harvesting process.
    • Entrance Fee: Free to visit, but tours or cooking classes usually range from 150,000 – 300,000 VND (~6.50 – 13 USD).
    • Opening Hours: All day, but tours typically operate in the morning or late afternoon.
    • Getting There: About 3 km from Hoi An’s center, you can bike or take a taxi.

2. How to Get Around

  • Walking: The Ancient Town is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is the best way to explore its narrow streets.
  • Bicycles: Many hotels and homestays offer free or inexpensive bike rentals. It’s a great way to explore the town, countryside, and nearby beaches.
  • Motorbike Rentals: For more freedom to explore surrounding areas like the countryside or beach, renting a motorbike costs around 100,000 – 150,000 VND (~4.25 – 6.40 USD) per day.
  • Taxis & Rideshares: Taxis are available for longer trips, but many tourists prefer using Grab for convenience.

3. Popular Local Food

  • Cao Lau: Hoi An’s signature dish, made with thick rice noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers. It’s only made with water from a specific local well. Popular spots include Cao Lau Ba Le.
  • White Rose Dumplings (Banh Bao Banh Vac): Delicate shrimp dumplings shaped like a rose, steamed to perfection. Try them at White Rose Restaurant.
  • Banh Mi: Hoi An has its own spin on the famous Vietnamese sandwich. Check out Banh Mi Phuong, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
  • Com Ga (Chicken Rice): A simple but flavorful dish with shredded chicken, rice, and herbs. Com Ga Ba Buoi is a local favorite.
  • Hoi An Chicken Rice Pancake (Banh Xeo): Crispy rice pancakes stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

4. Top Nightlife Spots in Hoi An

  • Q Bar

    • Highlights: Set in a heritage building in the Ancient Town, Q Bar offers a chic lounge atmosphere with a mix of local and international cocktails.
    • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
    • Happy Hour: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, with discounts on cocktails.
    • Getting There: Located on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in Ancient Town.

  • Dive Bar

    • Highlights: A lively spot popular with expats and travelers. It has a laid-back vibe, pool tables, and occasional live music.
    • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
    • Happy Hour: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM with beer and cocktail discounts.
    • Getting There: Located on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, a short walk from the Ancient Town.

  • Mango Mango

    • Highlights: This riverside bar and restaurant offers a great view of the Thu Bon River and serves creative cocktails. It’s the perfect spot for sunset drinks.
    • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
    • Happy Hour: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM with 2-for-1 drink deals.
    • Getting There: Located across the river from Ancient Town on Nguyen Phuc Chu Street.

  • Before & Now Bar

    • Highlights: A two-floor venue that combines a restaurant downstairs with a nightclub upstairs, offering food, drinks, and dancing until late.
    • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
    • Happy Hour: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM with beer specials.
    • Getting There: Located on Le Loi Street in Ancient Town.

5. How to Get to Hoi An

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), about 30 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi (300,000 – 400,000 VND, ~12.75 – 17 USD) or a shuttle to Hoi An.
  • By Train: The nearest train station is in Da Nang, and from there, you can take a taxi or bus to Hoi An.
  • By Bus: Long-distance buses arrive at the Hoi An bus station, located a few kilometers outside the town center. Taxis or motorbike taxis are available from the bus station.

Hoi An is a charming and magical destination where history, culture, and beauty blend seamlessly. Whether you’re walking through its ancient streets, relaxing by the river, or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there’s something here for every traveler.