HOI AN

The Ancient Town of Hoi An is so beautiful and one of the biggest tourist attractions in Vietnam. Hoi An used to be an important trading port for both European and Asian merchants so different cultural influences can be felt until today.

It is always crowded, especially during the night when the city is lighted up by thousands of colorful lanterns. And please try Cao Lau, one of the best noodle dishes in Vietnam but you will only find it around Hoi An!

There is lots to do in and around Hoi An. Maybe the best way to explore it is by bicycle or motorbike. You can drive around the green rice fields and see some water buffalos. The water buffalo is widely considered to be the national animal of Vietnam as they play a very important role in agriculture.

Hoi An is touristy, but it still has its special vibe and I always enjoy being there. It has lots to offer so I try to summarize what you shouldn't miss. As Hoi An is very busy, I would recommend you to stay in An Bang which is only 15 mins away by car/motorbike or 30 mins by bicycle - it's much more relaxing there and it's by the beach. Click here to check out An Bang.

Ancient Town

Yellow houses, lanterns, boats, delicious local food and friendly people - this is what makes the Ancient Town of Hoi An so popular among tourists! Go for a boat ride on Hoai River to put a little lantern on the water. It's a ritual to express gratitude to the ancestors and to wish for prosperity.

Hoi An Lantern Festival

On the 14th of Lunar Calendar, when the moon shines at its brightest, Hoi An gets even more colorful and romantic by even more lanterns. There are traditional dances and music performances to celebrate Vietnam's rich culture, heritage and hospitality.

Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge, also called Japanese Temple (Chua Cau) was built by Japanese merchants in 16th century. It became the symbol of Hoi An as you can see it in the city's seal.

It is currently under construction.

An Hoi Bridge

An Hoi Bridge connects Hoi An with the small island An Hoi. From here, you can see all the boats and lanterns on Thu Bon River.

Quan Cong Temple

Quan Cong Temple, also called Kong Pagoda, is a famous tourist destination in Hoi An with a Chinese-influenced architecture.

Hoi An Central Market

The Central Market has it all - fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, souvenirs and a food court with a big choice of local foods like Cao Lau and Mi Quang. Just walk around to see and feel the special atmosphere.

Lantern Class

You can learn how to make the traditional Hoi An Lanterns during a Lantern Class in the Ancient Town which is a lot of fun. Also, you'll have an unique souvenir to bring the romantic Hoi An vibe back to your home.

Tailor Shops

You will see a lot of tailor shops when you come to Hoi An. The shops aim for international tourists and became an important income source. Within a few hours, you can get affordable custom made clothes - another special souvenir from Hoi An and another special experience.

Nightmarket

During the nighttime, there are a lot of street vendors selling delicious food and souvenirs around the Ancient Town. The actual night market is located on the small island An Hoi.

And this is also the place where you can get the most touristy picture in Hoi An!

My favorite food places & coffeeshops

There is so much good food and drinks in Hoi An so this should make it easier for you to decide!

Banh mi

Banh Mi Phuong

With more than 10.000 reviews on Google, this place is truly now a hidden gem. It's always crowded so it must be good. They also have vegetarian options.

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