Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most charming and atmospheric destinations. Located on the central coast, this small town is famous for its exceptionally well-preserved Old Town, glowing lanterns, riverside scenery, and deep-rooted traditions. Unlike the fast-paced energy of larger cities, Hoi An invites travelers to slow down, wander, and immerse themselves in a place where history, culture, and everyday life blend seamlessly.
For foreign tourists traveling to Vietnam, Hoi An offers a perfect mix of heritage, cuisine, nature, and relaxation. Below are the 10 best things to do in Hoi An, carefully chosen to help visitors experience the town at its most authentic and memorable.
1. Wander Through Hoi An Ancient Town
The heart and soul of Hoi An is its Ancient Town, a UNESCO-recognized heritage area filled with narrow lanes, yellow-walled houses, and centuries-old wooden buildings. Once a thriving international trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries, Hoi An reflects a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.
Walking through the Old Town feels like stepping into a living museum. During the day, visitors can explore historic merchant houses, communal halls, and small museums. In the evening, the area transforms as lanterns light up the streets, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Vietnam.
2. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Covered Bridge is Hoi An’s most iconic landmark and a symbol of the town itself. Built in the early 17th century by the Japanese community, the bridge connects two sides of the Old Town and features a small temple inside.
Its curved roof, carved wooden details, and tranquil setting make it a favorite spot for photos. While modest in size, the bridge holds deep historical significance and represents the cultural exchange that shaped Hoi An’s identity. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon helps avoid crowds.
3. Experience the Lantern Festival
Hoi An is world-famous for its lanterns, and the best time to see them in full splendor is during the monthly Lantern Festival. On these evenings, electric lights in the Old Town are turned off, and the streets glow with colorful silk lanterns.
Locals and visitors gather along the Thu Bon River to release floating lanterns, each symbolizing wishes for luck, happiness, and peace. Traditional music, folk games, and performances add to the festive mood. Even outside festival nights, lantern-lit streets give Hoi An its dreamy character.
4. Take a Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River
A gentle boat ride on the Thu Bon River offers a peaceful way to experience Hoi An from a different perspective. The river has long been central to the town’s history as a trading port, and today it remains a scenic focal point.
Sunset is the most popular time for boat rides, as the sky changes color and lanterns begin to reflect on the water. In the evening, floating lanterns drift along the river, creating a calm and romantic scene. This simple activity is especially popular with couples and families.
5. Discover Hoi An’s Local Cuisine
Hoi An is considered one of Vietnam’s best destinations for food lovers. The town is known for unique regional dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere in the country. Local specialties reflect a balance of fresh ingredients, subtle spices, and centuries-old recipes.
Dishes such as cao lau, white rose dumplings, and mi quang are must-tries. Street food stalls, riverside restaurants, and family-run eateries all offer authentic flavors. For those interested in hands-on experiences, cooking classes provide insight into local markets and traditional preparation methods.
6. Relax at An Bang Beach
Just a short drive or bicycle ride from the Old Town, An Bang Beach offers a relaxing escape from sightseeing. With its soft sand, gentle waves, and laid-back atmosphere, it is one of the most popular beaches near Hoi An.
Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants. Unlike more crowded resort beaches, An Bang retains a casual, local feel. It is an ideal place to spend a slow afternoon or watch the sunset over the East Sea.
7. Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Hoi An is one of the best places in Vietnam to learn about local cuisine through cooking classes. Many classes begin with a guided visit to a traditional market, where participants learn about fresh herbs, spices, and ingredients.
Under the guidance of local chefs, visitors prepare classic Vietnamese dishes and enjoy the meals they create. Cooking classes are both educational and social, making them a great way to connect with Vietnamese culture and take home skills that last long after the trip ends.
8. Cycle Through the Countryside
One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Hoi An is by bicycle. Just beyond the Old Town lies a peaceful countryside of rice paddies, coconut groves, rivers, and small villages.
Cycling allows travelers to observe daily rural life, from farmers working in the fields to children playing near their homes. The flat terrain makes biking easy for all fitness levels. Guided cycling tours often include visits to local farms or craft villages, offering deeper cultural insight.
9. Get Custom-Made Clothing
Hoi An is famous worldwide for its tailoring services. Hundreds of tailor shops line the streets, offering custom-made clothing at reasonable prices and quick turnaround times.
Visitors can have suits, dresses, shirts, or traditional Vietnamese outfits made to their measurements in just a few days. While quality varies, choosing a reputable tailor and allowing time for fittings ensures the best results. Custom tailoring in Hoi An is both a practical souvenir and a unique travel experience.
10. Explore Nearby Cultural and Natural Attractions
Hoi An’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. A short trip inland leads to the lush countryside and traditional villages, while further journeys take travelers to ancient ruins and scenic landscapes.
Many visitors choose to explore nearby historical sites, fishing villages, or coconut forests. These excursions offer a broader understanding of central Vietnam’s history, environment, and way of life, complementing time spent in the Old Town.
Final Thoughts
Hoi An is a destination that captures the imagination with its beauty, history, and gentle pace of life. It stands apart from Vietnam’s larger cities, offering an experience that feels both intimate and timeless.
For foreign tourists traveling to Vietnam, Hoi An provides a perfect balance of cultural discovery, culinary delight, and relaxation. Whether strolling through lantern-lit streets, cycling past rice fields, or savoring local dishes, visitors often find themselves falling in love with Hoi An—and carrying its warm, glowing memories long after their journey ends.
