Things to do in Hoian are endless, from wandering lantern-lit Ancient Town streets to relaxing on golden beaches and exploring the vibrant countryside. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations, offering a perfect mix of history, cuisine, and local life.
From lantern-lit Ancient Town and street food tours to rice paddies, beaches, and hidden gems, AFS Travel guides your perfect trip.
Wander Around the Ancient Town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is the beating heart of the city. With its yellow-walled houses, wooden shopfronts, and colorful lanterns, the area is best explored on foot. Vehicles are restricted during the day, making it peaceful to stroll through alleys, visit temples, and admire Chinese, Japanese, and French-influenced architecture.
Don’t miss:
- The Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An’s most iconic landmark.
- Traditional merchant houses like Tan Ky House.
- Lantern-lit evenings when the entire town glows.
Join a Hidden Gems Tour
For those who want to go beyond the touristy façade, join a guided “Hidden Gems of Old Hoi An” tour. These experiences take you behind the scenes, where you’ll meet local artisans, explore the oldest cao lau noodle factory, and learn about Hoi An’s unique blend of cultures. It’s also part walking tour, part food tasting—perfect for anyone curious about the city’s real character.
Cycle Through Rice Paddies to An Bang Beach
Cycling is one of the most authentic ways to experience Hoi An. Ride past lush rice paddies, spot water buffalo, and wave at friendly farmers before reaching An Bang Beach. The beach is relaxed and welcoming, with many restaurants offering free loungers if you order food or drinks.
Pro tip: Park your bike in designated lots to avoid overcharging and head north for a quieter stretch of sand.
Visit Lo Gach Cu Farm Café
Hidden in the countryside, Lo Gach Cu Farm is both a café and a photogenic escape. Visiting this farm is one of the lesser-known things to do in Hoian, offering views of green fields and an abandoned brick kiln covered in foliage. It creates a unique backdrop for your coffee break, and their smoothies and juices are also highly recommended.
Explore the Countryside by Jeep
Want a more adventurous option? Take a countryside jeep tour. You’ll travel through fishing villages, meet local farmers, and even try hands-on activities like noodle making. This is a great way to experience the rural life surrounding Hoi An while soaking in incredible landscapes.
Experience Hoi An’s Cocktail Scene
Hoi An might be historic, but its nightlife is surprisingly modern. Experiencing the nightlife is also one of the exciting things to do in Hoian—whether you’re visiting bars along the Thu Bon River or joining a secret cocktail tour that introduces you to hidden speakeasies across town. Market Bar is a popular favorite for its happy hour drinks and sweeping views.
Taste Hoi An’s Famous Dishes
Food is one of the biggest highlights in Hoi An. Make sure to try:
- Cao Lau: chewy noodles with pork and herbs, unique to Hoi An.
- Mi Quang: turmeric-infused noodles with broth and toppings.
- Banh Xeo: crispy savory pancakes.
- Hoi An’s world-famous banh mi.
Take an evening walking food tour to sample all these delights while learning their cultural background.
Shop at the Night Market
Every evening, the An Hoi Night Market comes alive with lanterns, street food, and local crafts. Visiting this vibrant market is one of the must-try things to do in Hoian—even if you’re not a shopper, it’s worth going just for the atmosphere.
Discover Temples and Pagodas
From the Ba Mu Temple in the Old Town to smaller pagodas scattered around the countryside, exploring spiritual sites is one of the most rewarding things to do in Hoian. Some require an Ancient Town entry pass, but many outside the center are free to enter.
>>> Read more: The Best Hotels in Hoi An: Where to Stay for Culture, Beach, or Romance
Take Day Trips from Hoi An
Hoi An is the perfect base for nearby attractions, and many of the best things to do in Hoian include exploring day trips around the region:
- My Son Sanctuary: Explore ancient Cham ruins, best visited at sunrise.
- Marble Mountains: A cluster of limestone hills filled with caves and pagodas, just 18 km away.
- Cham Islands: Go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and enjoy fresh seafood on the beach.
- Ba Na Hills: Visit the Insta-famous Golden Bridge and enjoy cable car rides in a whimsical French village.
Where to Stay in Hoi An
Hoi An offers options for every type of traveler:
- Budget: Green Apple Hotel – affordable, with pool and free bikes.
- Mid-range: Hoi An Historic Hotel – right in the Ancient Town, modern facilities.
- Luxury: Four Seasons The Nam Hai – private villas and world-class service by the beach.
Whether you want a budget-friendly base, boutique comfort, or ultimate luxury, you’ll find plenty of hotels in Hoi An to match your style.
Travel Tips for Hoi An
Hoi An is a compact and welcoming city, but a few insider tips can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
>>> Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Hoi An Hotels: Where Ancient Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Arrange Airport Pickup from Da Nang
Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport, so most travelers arrive via Da Nang International Airport. While taxis and ride-hailing apps are available, pre-booking a pickup ensures a stress-free arrival and avoids potential scams or overcharging. Many hotels and local agencies like AFS Travel can arrange reliable transfers starting from $11.
Explore by Bicycle or Electric Scooter
Bicycles are one of the best ways to see Hoi An. Most hotels provide free bikes, and you can easily cycle from the Ancient Town to nearby rice paddies or An Bang Beach. For longer distances, electric scooters are becoming popular, offering convenience without the noise of motorbikes.
Visit Ancient Town at Off-Peak Hours
Hoi An’s Old Town can get very crowded, especially in the late afternoon and evening. For a more relaxed experience, plan your visits in the early morning when the streets are quiet and the light is perfect for photos. Alternatively, late evenings after dinner are great for lantern-lit strolls once the main tour groups have left.
Respect Local Customs
Hoi An is full of temples, pagodas, and family shrines. Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering sacred spaces. Even in casual settings, politeness is appreciated—learning a few Vietnamese greetings like “xin chào” (hello) goes a long way.
Carry Cash in Small Denominations
While larger hotels and restaurants accept cards, many local vendors, markets, and food stalls are cash-only. Keep small notes (10,000–50,000 VND) for convenience, especially if you plan on eating street food or shopping at the night market.
Mind the Weather and Seasons
Hoi An’s weather can shift quickly. If you’re visiting between September and December, pack a raincoat or umbrella as sudden downpours are common. Summers (May–August) can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and avoid cycling during midday heat.
Book Activities in Advance During Festivals
Hoi An is famous for its Full Moon Lantern Festival, which takes place monthly. Hotels and tours book up fast during this time, so plan ahead if your visit coincides with the festival.
Plan Your Hoi An Adventure with AFS Travel
Hoi An is a city that blends history, culture, and relaxation in one destination. From lantern-lit streets to sandy beaches, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences, and the list of things to do in Hoian is truly endless.
At AFS Travel, we specialize in customized Vietnam itineraries—whether you want food tours, countryside adventures, or luxury escapes. Let us handle your flights, hotels, and visa so you can simply enjoy the journey.
