Best Time to Visit
February to April
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (₫)
Language
Vietnamese
Timezone
ICT (UTC+7)
Discover Hoi An
Step into Hoi An and you're transported to a living museum of Southeast Asian trade. The Ancient Town's mustard-yellow shop houses, draped in bougainvillea and silk lanterns, aren't just a backdrop—they're active workshops where tailors measure fabric by hand and artisans craft lanterns from bamboo and silk. This isn't a recreated theme park; it's a UNESCO World Heritage site where daily life unfolds amidst 15th-century merchant homes, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and ancestral assembly halls where incense still burns for generations of Chinese traders.
Come sunset, the real magic begins. As electric lights are switched off, thousands of handmade silk lanterns ignite, casting a warm, flickering glow on the Thu Bon River. This nightly transformation culminates in the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival, when the town floats candle-lit offerings on the water—a tradition that turns the riverside into a scene from a fairy tale. Beyond the postcard-perfect core, Hoi An reveals its layers: serene rice paddies just a bicycle ride away, the golden stretch of An Bang Beach, and a culinary legacy that makes it Vietnam's unofficial food capital, where you can learn to craft Cao Lau noodles in a family kitchen.
Why Visit Hoi An?
A UNESCO World Heritage Site That's Alive: Unlike static ruins, Hoi An's Ancient Town is a vibrant, working community. Wander past the 18th-century Tan Ky Merchant House with its fusion architecture, see tailors at work in historic shopfronts, and witness daily rituals at the Fujian Assembly Hall. The preservation is so complete that even new buildings must follow traditional design codes.
The Legendary Lantern Culture: Hoi An is synonymous with silk lanterns. Visit a family workshop in Cam Nam village to see them being made, then experience the town illuminated by thousands of them each night. The monthly Full Moon Festival is pure enchantment, with floating candle offerings, traditional games, and folk music filling the lantern-lit streets.
World-Class Custom Tailoring at Unbeatable Prices: Bring a picture or design, and within 24-48 hours, expert tailors can create custom suits, dresses, and leather goods. Renowned shops like Yaly Couture and A Dong Silk offer exceptional quality, with fittings to ensure perfect results—all for a fraction of Western prices.
Vietnam's Premier Culinary Destination: This is where you taste dishes found nowhere else, like Cao Lau (noodles made with water from the town's ancient Ba Le well) and White Rose dumplings. Take a hands-on cooking class at places like Red Bridge Cooking School or join a street food tour to sample Banh Mi Phuong, hailed as Vietnam's best sandwich.
Perfect Blend of Culture, Beach, and Countryside: In one day, you can explore ancient architecture, cycle through emerald rice paddies in Cam Thanh's coconut village, and unwind on the pristine sands of An Bang Beach. The nearby Marble Mountains and My Son Sanctuary offer easy day trips into history and nature.
A Photographer's and Romantic's Paradise: From the iconic reflection of lanterns on the Thu Bon River at dusk to the golden hour light on ancient facades, every corner is photogenic. The intimate scale, pedestrian-friendly streets, and atmospheric cafes make it ideal for couples and creatives seeking inspiration.
Hoi An is Known For
Ready to explore Hoi An?
Hoi An Neighborhoods
Ancient Town (Hoi An Old Town)
The historic heart and UNESCO core of Hoi An, enclosed within a pedestrian-friendly zone. This is a maze of narrow lanes lined with centuries-old merchant houses, assembly halls, and tailor shops, all glowing with silk lanterns after dark. The vibe is atmospheric, bustling with tourists by day and magically serene by night.
Highlights:
Best for:
An Hoi & The Riverside
Located just across the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge from the Ancient Town, this area is slightly more modern but equally charming. It's centered around An Hoi Islet, famous for its nightly lantern market and vibrant restaurant and bar scene along the river. The vibe is lively, social, and perfect for evening strolls.
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Cam Chau & The Countryside
A peaceful, residential area just a 10-minute bike ride from the Ancient Town, offering a glimpse into local Vietnamese life. This neighborhood is characterized by quiet lanes, lush gardens, homestays, and rice paddies. The vibe is tranquil, authentic, and perfectly suited for cycling and relaxation.
Highlights:
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An Bang Beach & Cua Dai Area
Located about 4 km from the Ancient Town, this is Hoi An's coastal escape. An Bang Beach is a long stretch of golden sand backed by chic beach clubs, seafood restaurants, and casual bars. The vibe is laid-back, bohemian, and perfect for combining culture with beach time.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Purchase a combined entry ticket (120,000 VND) to enter the Ancient Town and visit any five of the 21 heritage sites, like old houses, assembly halls, or museums. Keep it handy as attendants check at major attractions.
- •For the best tailor experience, go with a clear idea, photos, or samples. Allow at least 2-3 days for multiple fittings. Yaly Couture, A Dong Silk, and Bebe Tailor are renowned for quality, but smaller shops can offer great value.
- •Rent a bicycle (approx. 30,000 VND/day) to explore beyond the Ancient Town. Cycle to Cam Thanh coconut village, Tra Que herb village, or An Bang Beach for a more local and scenic perspective.
- •Avoid the Ancient Town during the middle of the day when cruise ship crowds peak. Early morning (6-9 AM) is magical for photos and peaceful walks before the shops open.
- •Bargain politely at markets and for non-fixed price items, but don't haggle aggressively over small amounts. A smile goes a long way. For tailored goods, you're paying for skill and fabric quality.
- •On the 14th day of each lunar month, the Full Moon Lantern Festival takes over. Electric lights are turned off, and the town is lit only by lanterns. It's crowded but unforgettable—plan to stay for the evening.
- •Take a boat trip on the Thu Bon River at sunset for the best views of the lantern-lit town. A short 30-minute trip costs about 150,000 VND per boat (fits 2-4 people).
- •Withdraw Vietnamese Dong (VND) from ATMs as many small vendors, cyclos, and market stalls only accept cash. Major hotels, tailors, and some restaurants accept credit cards.
- •The 'White Rose' and 'Cao Lau' dumpling restaurants (like White Rose Restaurant) are actually central kitchens supplying most eateries in town. Go to the source for the authentic taste.
- •Beach warning: Cua Dai Beach has suffered significant erosion. For swimming and sunbathing, head to the more stable and vibrant An Bang Beach further north.
Hoi An Food Scene
Hoi An's cuisine is a delicious legacy of its trading port history, blending Vietnamese staples with unique local recipes. Many signature dishes, like Cao Lau, can't be authentically replicated outside the town due to specific ingredients. The food culture thrives from humble street food stalls to renowned cooking schools.
Must-Try Dishes
Street Food & Market Bites
- • Banh Mi Phuong (Phuong Bread)
- • Cao Lau at Thanh Cao Lau
- • Com Ga at Ba Buoi Chicken Rice
- • Central Market food stalls
Eat where you see locals queuing. For Banh Mi Phuong, go early afternoon to avoid the longest lines.
Traditional & Family-Run
- • White Rose Restaurant (true origin of the dumplings)
- • Morning Glory Restaurant (refined local cuisine)
- • Mermaid Restaurant (oldest in town)
At White Rose Restaurant, you can often see the dumplings being made in the open kitchen at the back.
Cooking Classes & Food Tours
- • Red Bridge Cooking School (includes market tour)
- • Hoianian Cooking Class (central location)
- • Street Food Tour with a local guide
Choose a class that includes a visit to the local market—it's an essential part of the culinary experience.
Riverside & International
- • Nu Eatery (creative fusion)
- • Mango Rooms (riverfront, vibrant flavors)
- • The Chef (fine dining with a view)
- • Dingo Deli (Western comfort food)
Book a riverside table for dinner in advance, especially at popular spots like Mango Rooms, for sunset views.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Hoi An
Spring
February to April is considered the absolute best time to visit. The weather is dry, sunny, and pleasantly warm with low humidity, perfect for exploring.
Pros:
- + Ideal weather for walking and cycling
- + Low chance of rain
- + Comfortable temperatures (avg 25-30°C)
- + Great for photography with clear skies
Cons:
- - Peak tourist season, so higher prices and crowds
- - Accommodation books up well in advance
Summer
May to August brings hot, humid weather and the start of the rainy season, with short but heavy afternoon showers common.
Pros:
- + Lush, green landscapes
- + Fewer tourists than spring
- + Good for beach days (between rains)
- + Vibrant and lively atmosphere
Cons:
- - Very hot and humid (can exceed 33°C)
- - Afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt plans
- - Higher humidity
Autumn
September to November is the peak of the rainy season, with the highest rainfall and risk of flooding, particularly in October and November.
Pros:
- + Lowest tourist crowds
- + Dramatic skies and atmospheric photos
- + Lower accommodation rates
Cons:
- - Frequent and heavy rainfall
- - High risk of flooding in the Ancient Town
- - Some outdoor activities and day trips may be cancelled
Winter
December and January are cooler and drier, but can be overcast. It's a pleasant time to visit, though not as reliably sunny as spring.
Pros:
- + Cooler temperatures (avg 22-25°C) good for exploring
- + Dry weather returns after autumn rains
- + Festive atmosphere around Christmas and New Year
Cons:
- - Can be cloudy and not ideal for beach time
- - Busy again during the holiday period
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Day Trips from Hoi An
My Son Sanctuary
1 hour by car or organized tour
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is the ancient capital of the Champa Kingdom, featuring a stunning complex of Hindu temple ruins dating from the 4th to 13th centuries, set in a lush jungle valley.
The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)
40 minutes by car or motorbike
A cluster of five limestone and marble hills near Da Nang, each named after an element. They are dotted with caves, tunnels, Buddhist pagodas, and offer panoramic views of the coastline.
Da Nang City
45 minutes by car or taxi
Vietnam's dynamic coastal city offers a modern contrast to Hoi An's ancient charm. Known for its spectacular bridges, expansive beaches, and contemporary attractions.
Hoi An Budget Guide
Hoi An is very affordable by international standards, though slightly more expensive than other Vietnamese towns due to its popularity. Budget travelers can live well on little, while luxury is available at a fraction of global costs.
Budget
$25-40 per day for hostels, street food, bicycles, and free walking.
per day
Mid-Range
$60-120 per day for comfortable hotel/private homestay, meals at nice restaurants, some tailored clothes, taxis, and tours.
per day
Luxury
$200+ per day for luxury resorts (e.g., Four Seasons, Anantara), fine dining, private guides, and high-end tailoring.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Street food and local markets are incredibly cheap (meals from 30,000-80,000 VND).
- •Accommodation prices spike during peak season (Feb-Apr) and the Full Moon Festival.
- •Bargain for everything except food with fixed prices. Start at 50-60% of the asking price.
- •Renting a bicycle is the cheapest and best way to get around locally.
- •Set a clear budget for tailoring before you walk into a shop to avoid overspending.
Hoi An Hidden Gems
Cam Thanh Coconut Village (Bay Mau Coconut Forest)
A vast water coconut palm forest just outside town, where you can glide through serene waterways in traditional bamboo basket boats.
Escape the crowds and experience the peaceful mangrove ecosystem. Local guides demonstrate incredible spinning boat tricks, and it's a completely different side of Hoi An's landscape.
Reaching Out Teahouse
A beautiful, tranquil teahouse in the Ancient Town run by speech- and hearing-impaired staff, promoting social enterprise.
It's an oasis of calm. Communication is through writing pads and gentle bells. The experience is as much about the serene atmosphere and meaningful cause as it is about the excellent tea and coffee.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village
A centuries-old woodworking village on Cam Kim Island, across the Thu Bon River from the Ancient Town.
See the artisans who built and restored much of Hoi An's iconic architecture at work using traditional techniques. It's a short bicycle ferry ride away and feels worlds apart from the tourist center.
The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
A stunning museum and gallery founded by French photographer Réhahn, dedicated to Vietnam's ethnic minority cultures.
It's free and houses incredible portraits, traditional costumes, and artifacts. The photography is breathtaking, and it offers deep cultural insight beyond Hoi An's mainstream history.
Cua Dai Fishing Village at Sunrise
The active fishing harbor near Cua Dai Beach, best visited in the very early morning.
Watch the vibrant, photogenic chaos of fishing boats returning with their catch. It's a raw, authentic slice of local life and a photographer's dream, especially as the sun rises.
Hoi An Culture & Customs
Hoi An's culture is a gentle, preservation-minded blend of its multi-national trading past and contemporary Vietnamese life. Respect for ancestors, artisanship, and a slower pace of life are key. The community takes great pride in its heritage status, which fosters a welcoming but respectful atmosphere towards visitors.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Dress modestly when entering temples, pagodas, and assembly halls (cover shoulders and knees).
- •Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home, a homestay, and sometimes even shop interiors.
- •Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of people, especially vendors and locals going about their day.
- •Use both hands or your right hand when giving or receiving money, a business card, or a small item, as a sign of respect.
- •Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Keep them minimal.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Hoi An
Do I need to buy a ticket to enter Hoi An Ancient Town?
Yes, to visit the specific heritage sites (old houses, assembly halls, museums, the bridge) within the UNESCO zone, you need a composite ticket (120,000 VND). It grants entry to any five sites. Simply walking the streets is free, but attendants will check tickets at building entrances.
How many days should I spend in Hoi An?
A minimum of 2 full days is recommended: one for exploring the Ancient Town, museums, and tailoring, and another for a cooking class, cycling in the countryside, or a beach trip. 3-4 days allows a more relaxed pace and time for day trips to My Son or the Marble Mountains.
Is Hoi An safe for tourists?
Hoi An is considered one of Vietnam's safest cities for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare. Standard precautions apply: be aware of bag snatching (especially from motorbikes), use hotel safes for valuables, and be cautious when crossing streets. The pedestrianized Ancient Town core is particularly safe at night.
Can I get clothes tailored in one day?
It's possible for simple items, but not recommended. For a well-fitted suit, dress, or complex garment, allow 2-3 days for multiple fittings. Rushing the process often leads to imperfections. Most tailors need at least 24 hours for the first fitting after taking measurements.
What is the best way to get from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An?
The most convenient ways are a pre-booked private car transfer (approx. 300,000-400,000 VND) or a metered taxi from the airport rank (similar price). The journey takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. There is no direct public bus.
When is the Lantern Festival, and is it worth it?
The Full Moon Lantern Festival happens monthly on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. The town turns off electric lights and is lit by lanterns, with folk music, games, and floating candle offerings on the river. It's incredibly atmospheric but also the most crowded time. If you dislike crowds, visit on a regular night when the lanterns are still lit, but without the festival events.
Is Hoi An suitable for families with children?
Yes, very. The pedestrian-friendly Ancient Town is safe for kids to explore, and activities like bicycle rides in the countryside, boat trips, cooking classes, and beach time are great for all ages. Many resorts have pools and family-friendly amenities.
What should I do if it floods?
Flooding can occur, especially in October and November. The Ancient Town is designed for it; raised walkways are deployed. Listen to local advice, avoid walking or driving through deep water, and keep electronics charged. Many businesses remain open, and it becomes a unique, if damp, experience. Travel insurance covering natural disasters is advised.
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