Hoi An isn’t just about its postcard-perfect Ancient Town; it’s a culinary hub, a shopping paradise, and a gateway to stunning beaches and lush countryside. Whether you’re here for a few days or a full week, this guide covers the top things to do in Hoi An — from must-see attractions to hidden gems only locals know.
Quick Travel Tips for Visiting Hoi An
Before diving into the list of things to do in Hoi An, here are some insider tips to help you plan your trip like a pro:
- Best Time to Visit: February to April offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while May to August is ideal for beach lovers.
- Getting There: Fly into Da Nang International Airport, then take a 40-minute taxi or Grab ride to Hoi An.
- Getting Around: Rent a bicycle or motorbike for maximum flexibility, or simply walk — most attractions are within easy reach.
- Stay Connected: Grab a local SIM or eSIM for reliable internet; we recommend Airalo or VNPT for travelers.
- Currency & Payments: Cash is king in markets and small shops, but most hotels and restaurants accept cards.
- Local Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting temples and always ask before photographing locals.
Wander Through Hoi An’s Ancient Town – Where Time Stands Still
No trip to Hoi An is complete without exploring its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. With yellow-painted houses, colorful lanterns, and French-Chinese architectural influences, this historic district feels like stepping back in time.
Insider tips:
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy quieter streets and better lighting for photos.
- Don’t miss Japanese Covered Bridge — an iconic 18th-century structure and symbol of Hoi An.
- Get an Ancient Town Entry Ticket (~120,000 VND) to access key temples, museums, and old houses.
Best For: History lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking postcard-perfect views.
>>> Read more: Hoi An to Hue: A Complete Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Take a Hidden Gems Tour – Discover Hoi An Behind the Scenes
Sure, Ancient Town is beautiful, but to see the real Hoi An, you need to look beyond the tourist façades. One of the best ways is by joining a Hidden Gems Walking Tour.
Why It’s Special:
- Meet local artisans and families running century-old businesses.
- Learn about cao lau noodles at Hoi An’s oldest noodle factory.
- Explore bustling local markets and sample authentic snacks.
- Understand the fascinating mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences on local culture.
For travelers who want a deeper connection with the city, this tour is unmissable.
Things to do in Hoi An: Cycle Through Rice Paddies to An Bang Beach
Hoi An is flat, scenic, and made for cycling. Most hotels offer free bicycles, making it the perfect way to explore.
What You’ll See:
- Tranquil rice paddies dotted with grazing water buffalo
- Hidden Buddhist temples and local villages
- Daily life unfolding in quiet countryside lanes
An Bang Beach is about a 20-minute ride from Ancient Town. The main road can be busy, so take side routes through the rice fields for a peaceful journey.
Pro Tip: Park your bike at local lots near the beach entrance — expect to pay 10,000–30,000 VND. If you dine at a beachfront restaurant, parking is often free.
>>> Read more: The Best Hotels in Hoi An: Where to Stay for Culture, Beach, or Romance
Spend a Relaxing Day at An Bang Beach
White sands, turquoise waters, and a laid-back vibe — An Bang Beach is one of Hoi An’s most beautiful spots.
Why visit:
- Free access to sun loungers when you order food or drinks
- Fresh seafood served right by the ocean
- Water sports like paddleboarding and surfing for the adventurous
Head to the northern end of the beach for a quieter atmosphere away from the crowds.
Visit Lo Gach Cu Farm Café – A Hidden Gem
If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Lo Gach Cu Farm is a must. Located deep in the Hoi An countryside, this rustic café offers breathtaking views of rice paddies and an abandoned brick kiln now overgrown with trees.
- Enjoy some of the best coffee in Hoi An with a serene backdrop
- Try their refreshing smoothies and light brunch options
- Perfect for Instagram-worthy photos without the tourist crowds
Things to do in Hoi An: Explore Hoi An’s Countryside by Jeep
Step outside Ancient Town and you’ll find a completely different side of Hoi An. Join a Hoi An Countryside Jeep Tourto uncover Vietnam’s rural charm.
Highlights Include:
- Visiting family-run farms and learning traditional farming methods
- Stopping by fishing villages and watching local fishermen at work
- Making noodles with locals
- Scenic rides through endless rice paddies and coconut groves
This experience connects you with authentic local life far from the usual tourist paths.
>>> Read more: Vietnam Vacation: The Ultimate Travel Guide with AFS Travel
Indulge in Hoi An’s Vibrant Cocktail Scene
Hoi An isn’t just a food destination — it has a growing reputation for craft cocktails. The Market Bar is a favorite among travelers thanks to its stunning river views and innovative drinks.
Want a curated experience? Book the Hoi An Secret Cocktail Tour where a local guide takes you to four hidden bars you’d never find on your own.
Eat Your Way Through Hoi An’s Street Food Scene
Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise, and you haven’t truly experienced it until you’ve tasted its specialties:
- Cao Lau: Thick noodles with pork and fresh herbs
- Mi Quang: Turmeric-infused noodles with broth and peanuts
- Banh Xeo: Crispy rice pancakes stuffed with shrimp and pork
- Hoi An-style Banh Mi: Often voted among the best sandwiches in the world
For a complete experience, join an Evening Walking Food Tour to sample local favorites and learn the stories behind them.
Shop & People-Watch at Hoi An Night Market
Once the sun sets, Hoi An Night Market comes alive with vibrant colors and buzzing energy.
- Browse stalls selling lanterns, souvenirs, and street food
- Capture incredible photos of lantern-lit streets
- Sit by the riverfront bars and enjoy live music as locals and travelers mingle
Even if you don’t buy anything, the night market is perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.
Go Temple Hopping Around Hoi An
Hoi An is home to countless beautiful temples and pagodas, many dating back centuries.
Must-Visit Temples:
- Ba Mu Temple: Built in 1626, famous for its ornate gate
- Quan Cong Temple: A tribute to a legendary Chinese general
- Chuc Thanh Pagoda: The oldest Buddhist temple in Hoi An
Buy an Ancient Town ticket for entry to some, while others are free to visit.
Unmissable Day Trips from Hoi An
Hoi An is more than just lantern-lit streets and ancient charm — it’s also the perfect base for exploring some of Central Vietnam’s most stunning attractions. From ancient Cham temples and limestone caves to pristine islands and iconic landmarks, there’s no shortage of unforgettable adventures just a short trip away.
- My Son Sanctuary: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Cham ruins dating back to the 4th century. Best visited at sunrise for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- Marble Mountains: Just 30 minutes away, these five limestone hills offer mystical caves, pagodas, and panoramic views over Da Nang’s coastline — a paradise for photography lovers.
- Cham Islands: A short boat ride from Hoi An, the Cham Islands are perfect for snorkeling, island-hopping, and seafood feasts on pristine beaches. Best visited from March to September.
- Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge: Home to the famous “hands bridge” above the clouds, Ba Na Hills also features a French-inspired village, cable cars, and a family-friendly theme park — a magical day trip from Hoi An.
Where to Stay in Hoi An
Hoi An has accommodations for every budget:
- Budget: Green Apple Hotel – modern rooms, free bikes, breakfast included
- Mid-range: Hoi An Historic Hotel – boutique vibes in the heart of Ancient Town
- Luxury: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – ultimate 5-star experience
Final Travel Tips from AFS Travel
Before you set off, here are AFS Travel insider tips to make your journey effortless:
- Getting Around: Use Grab or rent a motorbike for maximum flexibility.
- Stay Connected: Ask us about travel SIMs and portable Wi-Fi solutions.
- Pack Smart: Light clothes for the beach, but comfy shoes for exploring.
- Book in Advance: Top attractions like Ba Na Hills and Cham Islands tours sell out fast.
- Respect Local Customs: Wear modest clothing when visiting temples and pagodas.
Conclusion
Hoi An is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. From lantern-lit evenings and cycling through emerald rice paddies to savoring world-class street food, there’s something here for every traveler.
Whether you’re staying for two days or two weeks, these things to do in Hoi An will help you create memories that last a lifetime. And if you want a hassle-free trip, AFS Travel can help you plan everything — from curated tours to handpicked hotels.
