16 Best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam, in 4 days or more

Introduction

Hoi An, in central Vietnam, was the sixth and final stop of our trip after Hue. We decided to get there by train to try the famous Vietnam sleeper train, and it turned out to be a great experience.

This coastal city is best known for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town, where canals wind through a mix of Chinese wooden shophouses, French colonial buildings, Vietnamese tube houses, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Beyond the old streets, Hoi An also has plenty of nearby beaches that are perfect for slowing down and relaxing.

After three weeks in Vietnam, Hoi An quickly became our favorite city in the country. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend three to six days without getting bored.

In this article, we’ll share our experience and highlight the best things to do in Hoi An. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure this charming city is on your list.

Read: Complete North and Central 3-week Vietnam Itinerary 

Getting there

Getting to Hoi An is quite easy as it is one of the main cities in Vietnam:

• By Plane: You can fly to Da Nang Airport and then organise a transfer with your accommodation to reach Hoi An which is around 45min away (or take a Grab, the local Uber)
• By Train: You can take train to reach Danang train station and then organise a transfer with your accommodation to reach Hoi An which is around 45min away (or take a Grab, the local Uber).
• By Bus: There are numerous buses going to Hoi An directly. You can book bus tickets from Hanoi to Hue through local travel agencies, bus stations, or online booking platforms. Several bus companies offer this route, and options range from standard to sleeper buses

We arrived in Hoi An from Hue by Train. If you want to know more about our 1^st class train journey

Moving Around

There are plenty of things to do around Hoi An, so the best way to explore is definitely by scooter. Renting one gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, whether you want to head to the beaches, explore rice fields, or simply hop between the Old Town and your accommodation. Many hotels and guesthouses rent scooters for a fair price, and in our case, it was actually the best one we had during our whole Vietnam trip.

If you’re not comfortable driving a scooter, don’t worry — there are other easy options. Many accommodations offer free bicycles, which are perfect for short rides into the Old Town or nearby villages. For longer distances, taxis and Grab (the local ride-hailing app) are both reliable and inexpensive ways to get around.

That way, no matter your travel style, getting around Hoi An is simple and stress-free.

Check our Google Map of Vietnam

When to Visit

Hoi An is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience, so it really depends on what you’re looking for.

• Spring (March – May) is one of the best times to visit. The weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 25–30°C (77–86°F). Rain is rare, so it’s a great moment for cycling through the rice paddies, relaxing on the beach, or wandering the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town.
• Summer (June – August) brings hotter temperatures, often between 30–35°C (86–95°F). It’s the perfect time if you want to enjoy the beaches, but be prepared for strong sun and higher humidity. July and August can get busy with both international and Vietnamese tourists.
• Autumn (September – November) is another lovely season, with slightly cooler temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F). The rice fields turn golden, making it incredibly scenic. However, this period also marks the rainy season, with occasional typhoons in October and November, so it can be unpredictable.
• Winter (December – February) is the coolest time of year, with temperatures ranging from 18–24°C (64–75°F). It’s less crowded, and although you may get some rain, the town has a cozy atmosphere and exploring without the heat can be very enjoyable.

If you want the best mix of good weather and atmosphere, visit in spring or early autumn. And if you can, try to time your stay with the Hoi An Lantern Festival, which happens on the 14th day of every lunar month — the Old Town becomes completely magical.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning a trip to Hoi An, we’d recommend staying at least 4 nights. The city has so much to offer — from exploring the lantern-lit Old Town to relaxing at the beach and cycling through rice paddies. Four nights will give you enough time to soak in its charm without rushing.

Here are some great places to stay depending on your budget:

• (€): Hoi An Merrily De Art Hotel: A cozy, budget-friendly stay with modern rooms and a warm atmosphere. It’s close enough to the Old Town yet tucked away from the busiest streets, making it a good base to explore.
• (€€): Cozy Savvy Boutique Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel offering a mix of comfort and charm. It features a pool and a great breakfast, perfect if you want something a bit more comfortable while still being within walking distance of Hoi An’s main attractions.
• (€€€): Allegro Hoi An Hotel & Spa: A luxurious option with spacious rooms, excellent service, and a spa to unwind after a day of exploring. Its location near the Ancient Town makes it easy to head out for evening strolls and dinners in the heart of Hoi An.

Here are all your accommodation options in Hoi An

What to Eat

Hoi An is a foodie heaven and probably one of the best places in Vietnam to try local specialties. The mix of Vietnamese flavors with international influences from its trading past makes the food scene really unique. Here are some must-try dishes when you’re in town:

• Cao Lau – A noodle dish you’ll only find in Hoi An. It’s made with thick noodles, herbs, greens, and pork (or tofu for a veggie version). The noodles are soaked in water from a specific well in Hoi An, which gives them their special texture.
• White Rose Dumplings – Small steamed dumplings filled with shrimp or pork (sometimes you’ll find veggie ones too), shaped like delicate roses.
• Mi Quang – A turmeric noodle dish served with broth, fresh herbs, and peanuts. It’s lighter than pho but packed with flavor.
• Banh Mi – Hoi An is famous for its banh mi, especially at the popular spots like Banh Mi Phuong. Filled with fresh herbs, veggies, sauces, and your choice of meat or tofu, it’s a must-try.
• Spring Rolls – Both fresh and fried versions are widely available, often with dipping sauces made from peanuts or fish sauce.

And of course, there are plenty of drinks to enjoy — from Vietnamese iced coffee to fresh coconuts and local craft beers.

Here are a few places we’d recommend checking out in Hoi An:

• Nu Eatery – A small but very creative spot with a modern twist on traditional dishes. Great if you want something a bit different.
• VVegan – 100% plant-based and super tasty. A great choice if you’re looking for lighter, healthier meals.
• Nourish Eatery – Our absolute favorite in Hoi An! Fresh, wholesome dishes with amazing smoothies and bowls — perfect for a healthy recharge.

Tip: Discover the best Vietnamese food with the Evening Food Tour with 7 Tastings

Best things to do in Hoi An

Stroll around the Old Town

The Old Town of Hoi An is the heart of the city and the place you’ll probably return to again and again. It’s easy to get there by bike, as most accommodations provide them for free, and once inside the town, you’ll want to slow down and explore on foot.

The streets are full of charm with colorful lanterns, yellow-walled houses, and little shops selling everything from handmade clothes to souvenirs. It’s also where you’ll find endless food options, from street food stalls serving local specialties to cozy restaurants and cafés tucked into old wooden houses.

To visit the main historical sites — like ancient assembly halls, temples, or traditional homes — you’ll need to buy a ticket that covers multiple attractions in the Old Town. If you’re keen on history and architecture, it’s definitely worth it, but if you’ve already visited a lot of temples elsewhere, simply wandering the streets is still an experience in itself.

The real magic of the Old Town happens at night. Once the lanterns are lit, the whole area comes alive with music, food, and crowds gathering by the river. It does get busy, but it’s also when Hoi An feels its most atmospheric.

Here are all your accommodation options in Hoi An

Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

One of the most charming things to do in Hoi An is to take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, especially in the evening. The town comes alive with lanterns lighting up the streets and reflecting on the water, giving the whole place a magical atmosphere.

You’ll find plenty of small wooden boats waiting along the riverbank in the Old Town, and the rides are usually run by local families. Prices depend on the duration, but you can expect around 100,000–150,000 VND for a short 20–30 minute ride. If you go at night, the price may be a little higher, but the experience is worth it.

A highlight of the evening boat ride is releasing a small paper lantern into the water. Locals will sell them to you for around 10,000–20,000 VND each, and it’s said to bring good luck. Watching the river filled with floating lanterns is one of the most iconic Hoi An moments.

Daytime rides are also available, and they’re quieter, offering a peaceful way to see local life along the riverbanks, but most people prefer the magical evening setting.

Tip: Reserve your boat tour online to avoid all the hassle of negotiating the price.

Eat at the Night Market

Just across the river from Hoi An’s Old Town, you’ll find the lively night market. This is the place to wander in the evening if you want to soak up the atmosphere and try all sorts of street food. The stalls line both sides of the street, serving everything from grilled skewers and banh mi to fresh fruit juices and sweet snacks.

Beyond food, you’ll also find plenty of stalls selling lanterns, clothes, and souvenirs, so it’s a good spot to pick up something to take home. It can get busy, but that’s part of the fun — strolling under the colorful lantern lights with the smell of street food all around really captures the vibe of Hoi An at night.

Tip: Register for the Free Walking Tour with a Local Guide to learn more bout Hoi An

Get Tailored Clothes

One of the most popular things to do in Hoi An is to have clothes made to measure. The city is famous for its tailors, and you’ll find shops on almost every street. We decided to go to a place called Blue Eye after seeing good reviews online, and it turned out to be a great choice.

There we were welcomed by Lyly and An, with Lyly taking the lead. Tina had picked out designs for two summer dresses and two shorts that she had found online, and Lyly helped with the details to make them just right. A little touch we appreciated was that each time we visited, we were offered bottled water, which was really nice in the heat.

Prices are always negotiable, though the margin isn’t huge. For us, the final price went down slightly from 187 to 180 USD (about 4.32 million VND), which we felt was fair for custom-made clothes. Once the deal was set, we paid by card and arranged a fitting for the next day. To our surprise, Lyly later messaged us on WhatsApp to say the pieces were ready even earlier, and we could already come by in the evening to try them on.

Here are all your accommodation options in Hoi An

Visit Reaching Out Tea House

One of the most unique spots in Hoi An is the Reaching Out Tea House. It’s a peaceful little café where the service is provided by hearing-impaired staff, which makes the whole experience really special. The atmosphere is calm, quiet, and perfect for taking a break from the busy old town streets.

We went for a tasting session — coffee for me and tea for Tina. Each came with three cups and a small snack on the side (272,000 VND / about 11.8 USD). Everything was beautifully presented and tasted amazing, but what really stood out was just how serene it felt sitting there, sipping slowly, and watching the life of the old town pass by outside.

At the back, there’s also a small shop filled with handmade items. It was tempting to buy everything, but we kept it simple and picked up some lanterns and picture frames. If you’re looking for a meaningful place to enjoy coffee or tea in Hoi An, this is definitely one to add to your list.

Tip: Do you enjoy Vietnamese Coffee? Try the Vietnamese Coffee Culture and Coffee Making Class

Join a Lantern Making Class

Another iconic thing to do in Hoi An is to join a lantern-making class, and The Lantern Lady is a great place to try it out. Here you can pick the size, shape, and up to four different fabrics for your lantern. The best part is that the lantern is foldable, so it’s easy to pack and take with you on your travels.

We chose the medium size with a pre-made bracket, which saved some time, but you can also build the bracket yourself if you want the full experience. The class takes place right in the yard of the owner’s house, which gives it a really authentic, homely feel. The teacher spoke very good English, and her mother was also there helping out, which made it even more personal.

It took about an hour and a half to finish our lantern, and while it was fun, it was also surprisingly challenging — especially trying to connect the different fabrics neatly. Still, we’d absolutely recommend doing it. Not only do you get a unique souvenir, but you also get to experience one of Hoi An’s most traditional crafts first-hand.

Tip: You can book with the Lanern Lady online. Be sure to secure your spot.

Relax on Hoi An’s Beaches

Hoi An isn’t just about the old town. Some of the best parts of your stay can be spent by the sea. Just 15 to 20 minutes away by bike, you’ll find several beaches to unwind at.

The most popular one is An Bang Beach, the biggest and closest to Hoi An. Parking right by the beach costs around 10,000 VND, and once on the sand, locals will quickly approach you with options for sunbeds and umbrellas. You can either pay about 50,000 VND per person or get chairs for free if you order cocktails, mocktails, or food from the restaurant. The water is shallow and warm, but it can have strong currents, so keep that in mind. It’s a great spot for a lazy afternoon under the sun.

If you’re looking for something quieter, head to Coconut Beach, a much smaller and more peaceful spot. There we grabbed a beer for 20,000 VND and two sunbeds — perfect for enjoying a calm stretch of sand with hardly anyone around.

Another option is Three Coconuts Beach, which turned out to be our favorite. The sunbeds here were free (though well-worn), and the vibe was much more relaxed. We spent the afternoon sipping fresh coconuts (80,000 VND for two) and chatting with a local restaurant owner who was fascinated by our drone. It was the kind of beach day that felt simple, authentic, and exactly what we needed.

Check our Google Map of Vietnam

Visit My Son Sanctuary

About an hour’s drive from Hoi An, the My Son Sanctuary makes for a great half-day trip. The ride itself is quite scenic, though the sun can be strong, so plan accordingly. Once at the entrance, tickets cost 300,000 VND, and from there you can either walk the 2 km to the site or hop on the free shuttle bus that runs back and forth.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son is a cluster of partially ruined Hindu temples dating back to between the 4th and 13th centuries. It once served as the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom, and the influence of Indian Hinduism is still clear in the architecture and carvings that remain. While the site isn’t huge, you can wander through several smaller temple groups scattered across the lush valley, making it easy to imagine how grand this place must have been centuries ago.

Don’t miss the traditional dance and music performance held in a small theater near the entrance — it’s a nice way to connect with the local culture before or after your visit. If you’re lucky, you might also spot wildlife around the sanctuary, like the curious monkey we came across.

On your way out, there are small shops where you can grab a cold drink. Parking for your scooter costs 5,000 VND.

Tip: Enjoy a unique experience with the My Son Sanctuary Early Morning Visit with Breakfast

Explore Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Located just a short ride from Hoi An, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is known for its traditional ceramic craft that dates back hundreds of years. On the way back from My Son Sanctuary, it makes for an easy stop to see another side of local culture.

Once inside the village, you’ll find small workshops and family-run studios where artisans shape, paint, and fire clay into everyday objects and decorative pieces. Some spots even let you try your hand at the potter’s wheel, which can be a fun experience if you’ve never done it before.

That said, the village is quite small and quiet, and depending on the time of your visit, there may not be much activity going on. While it’s a good stop if you’re curious about traditional crafts, it is better to do it with an organized tour.

Tip: To really experience the Thanh Ha Pottery village, try this workshop with locals.

Visit the Marble Mountains

About 30 minutes by scooter from Hoi An, the Marble Mountains are one of the most fascinating places to explore in central Vietnam. This cluster of five marble and limestone peaks represents the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Each mountain hides caves, temples, and tunnels, with Mount Thủy being the most accessible and rewarding to climb.

Walking up the stairs, you’ll quickly come across temples tucked into the cliffs, impressive Buddhist sanctuaries, and caves filled with statues and altars. There are also a few viewpoints along the way where you can take in sweeping views over Da Nang and the coastline. Despite being a popular spot, it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly crowded, and the climb is manageable thanks to the stone stairways.

The area is also tied to Vietnam’s tradition of stone carving. While rock extraction from the mountains has been banned to preserve the site, the surrounding workshops still showcase beautiful stone sculptures made from materials sourced elsewhere.

Entrance is affordable (around 40,000 VND depending on the caves you want to visit), and parking is often free if you grab a drink from the nearby stands. It’s definitely worth the detour if you’re staying in Hoi An or Da Nang.

Tip: Take the Lady Buddha, Marble Mountains, and Am Phu Cave Tour for a hassle-free experience.

Discover Ba Na Hills SunWorld with the Golden Bridge

If you’re staying in Hoi An or Da Nang, a day trip to Ba Na Hills SunWorld is one of the most popular excursions. The park is located about 1 hour from Hoi An (40 minutes from Da Nang) and is famous for its Golden Bridge, a 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge held up by two giant stone hands that look as if they’re lifting it from the mountain. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Vietnam.

To get there, you’ll take one of the world’s longest cable cars, which in itself is an experience, offering panoramic views over the lush mountains and coastline. Once on top, Ba Na Hills is a mix of attractions: a recreated French village, pagodas, flower gardens, theme-park rides, and endless viewpoints. It’s a bit kitschy and very touristic, but also fun if you know what to expect.

Entrance is not cheap compared to other attractions in Vietnam (about 900,000 VND per adult, 750,000 VND per child), but it includes the cable car and access to most of the attractions inside the park. Food and drinks on-site are more expensive, so bringing a bottle of water is a good idea.

The Golden Bridge is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the crowds thinner. During midday, it can get extremely crowded with tour groups.

Basket Boat tour in the coconut forest

Just a short ride from Hoi An’s old town, you’ll find the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, also known as the Cam Thanh coconut village. This area is famous for its traditional round basket boats that local fishermen have been using for generations.

Joining a basket boat tour is a fun and unique experience. You’ll float through narrow waterways lined with dense water coconut palms while the rower shows off their impressive paddling skills. Some even spin the boats in circles for a bit of extra entertainment, while others demonstrate traditional fishing techniques.

Most tours include a chance to try paddling the basket boat yourself and sometimes even throwing the round fishing nets. Along the way, you can also spot small crabs clinging to the mangrove roots and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

The tours usually last about 45 minutes to 1 hour and cost around 150,000 – 200,000 VND per person, depending on the operator. Many guesthouses in Hoi An can organize this for you, or you can book directly at the entrance to the forest.

It’s best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Here are all your accommodation options in Hoi An

Watch Hoi An Memories Show & Hoi An Impression Theme Park

If you want something truly unique in Hoi An, don’t miss the Hoi An Memories Show at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park. This large-scale outdoor performance is often called the biggest cultural show in Vietnam, with over 500 actors bringing Hoi An’s history to life through dance, music, and incredible stage design.

The show is held on an open-air stage the size of a football field, with the Thu Bon River as a backdrop. It tells the story of Hoi An’s past as a bustling trading port, mixing Vietnamese traditions with international influences. Expect colorful costumes, impressive light effects, and powerful music that make it a one-of-a-kind experience.

Before the show, you can also explore the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, which recreates old streets, ancient houses, and folk activities. It’s like stepping back in time, with plenty of little performances, workshops, and photo spots scattered around.

Tickets start at around 600,000 VND per person for the regular seats, and there are upgraded VIP options if you want a better view. It’s best to book in advance as it can sell out quickly, especially on weekends.

The theme park opens in the late afternoon, and the show usually begins at 7:30 pm, making it a perfect way to end a day in Hoi An.

Day Trip to Hue from Hoi An

If you have extra time in Hoi An and want to add a cultural adventure, a day trip to Hue is a great option. Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is about 3 hours away from Hoi An and can be reached either by train, car, or motorbike. The journey itself is beautiful, especially if you take the scenic Hai Van Pass with its sweeping coastal views.

In Hue, the must-see is the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk through ancient gates, temples, and palaces once home to the Nguyen emperors. Other highlights include the Thien Mu Pagoda, perched above the Perfume River, and the royal tombs of emperors such as Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, or Tu Duc, each with unique architecture blending with nature.

You can also wander through the local Dong Ba Market, a lively place to try traditional dishes like bun bo Hue (a spicy noodle soup), or just soak in the everyday life of the city.

Most people hire a driver for the day or join a guided tour, which makes it easier to cover more ground. If you’re confident on two wheels, renting a motorbike for the Hai Van Pass is a popular choice too.

A Hue day trip from Hoi An is packed but totally doable, and it gives you a deeper insight into Vietnam’s history and culture beyond the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An.

Here are all your accommodation options in Hoi An

Hoi An Itinerary

Day 1:

• Check into your hotel and settle in.
• Borrow a bike from your accommodation and cycle to the Ancient Town. Wander the narrow streets, pop into boutiques, and get a first taste of Hoi An’s food scene.
• In the evening, stroll along the lantern-lit riverbanks and cross to the Night Market for street food and souvenirs.

Day 2:

• Get fitted at a local tailor for custom clothes
• Take a break at Reaching Out Tea House
• Stroll around the Old Town
• Join a lantern-making class at The Lantern Lady
• Lunch at Nourish Eatery
• Relax at the Beach
• Dinner at Vvegan

Day 3:

• Rent a scooter and head to My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO site).
• Lunch at Nourish Eatery
• Chill at the beach
• Diner in the old town
• Catch the Hoi An Memories Show in the Impression Theme Park.

Day 4

• Go explore the Marble Mountain
• In the afternoon, relax at the beach or take a basket boat ride in the Coconut Forest.

Day 5:

• Do a day trip to Ba Na Hills to see the Golden Bridge

Day 6:

• Do a day trip to Hue if you didn’t visit it on your way to Hoi An.

Read: Complete North and Central 3-week Vietnam Itinerary