Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations, a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. This charming riverside town, once a major trading port in Southeast Asia, has retained its old-world charm while offering modern comforts and vibrant local life. Whether you are a history lover, a foodie, an adventurer, or someone looking for a relaxing retreat, Hoi An has something special for you.
Here are ten unbeatable reasons why Hoi An should be on your travel list.
1. Step Into the Past in Hoi An’s Ancient Town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is one of Vietnam’s most well-preserved historic areas, boasting centuries-old wooden shophouses, ornate temples, and elegant bridges that reflect a blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and French influences. Walking through its lantern-lit streets feels like traveling back in time, where every corner reveals intricate carvings, faded yellow facades, and colorful silk lanterns swaying in the breeze.
The Japanese Covered Bridge, an 18th-century wooden structure with an iconic curved roof, is one of the town’s most famous landmarks. The Fujian Assembly Hall, originally built by Chinese merchants, offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural traditions of Hoi An’s early settlers.
For an even deeper look at Hoi An’s cultural gems, the Hoi An Countryside & Islands Explorer tour takes you beyond the town’s main streets, introducing you to hidden alleyways, artisan workshops, and lesser-known heritage sites.
2. Relax on Hoi An’s Stunning Beaches
Hoi An is not just about history; it also offers some of Vietnam’s most stunning beaches. Just a short drive from the Ancient Town, An Bang Beach is a popular coastal escape with soft white sand, clear blue waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. Unlike more commercialized beach destinations, An Bang retains its natural beauty and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying fresh seafood right by the shore.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, Hidden Beach offers a quieter retreat with fewer crowds and a more peaceful setting. Taking an evening stroll along the shoreline, watching local fishermen cast their nets, adds to the charm of this coastal paradise.
3. Taste the Best Street Food in Vietnam
Hoi An is a food lover’s dream, offering some of the most delicious and unique dishes in Vietnam. The town’s street food scene is legendary, with flavors influenced by its rich trading history.
One of the most famous dishes, Cao Lau, is a must-try. Made with smoky pork, crispy croutons, and thick rice noodles soaked in water drawn from ancient Cham wells, this dish is exclusive to Hoi An. Another specialty, White Rose Dumplings, is a delicate and flavorful dish made from translucent rice flour wrappers filled with shrimp and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
For a truly immersive food experience, the Streets & Eats of Hoi An tour takes you to hidden food stalls, bustling markets, and family-run restaurants, where you can taste these authentic local dishes.
4. Get a Custom Outfit from Hoi An’s Tailors
Hoi An is famous for its world-class tailoring, where skilled artisans create custom-made clothing in just a few days. Whether you’re looking for a perfectly fitted suit, a flowing silk dress, or handcrafted leather shoes, Hoi An’s tailors can craft a bespoke outfit to suit your style.
Shops like Yaly Couture and Bebe Tailor have built a reputation for their high-quality fabrics and attention to detail. The ability to customize designs, from casual wear to formal attire, makes this an experience that’s both practical and memorable.
5. Witness the Magic of the Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the town’s most spectacular events, held on the 14th day of each lunar month. As night falls, the streets and rivers light up with thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a magical and romantic ambiance. Visitors can take part in the tradition of releasing lanterns onto the Thu Bon River, making a wish as they float down the water.
Beyond the lantern displays, the festival includes traditional music performances, cultural ceremonies, and local craft markets.
6. Explore the Tranquil Countryside by Vespa
Hoi An’s surrounding countryside is a world of its own, with lush rice paddies, traditional farming villages, and peaceful river landscapes. A Vespa ride through this rural setting offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life, where farmers still plow their fields with water buffalo and fishermen cast nets from wooden boats.
The Hoi An Countryside & Islands Explorer tour takes travelers along quiet roads, through bamboo forests, and past family-run workshops where locals produce handmade crafts.
7. Browse Hoi An’s Bustling Markets
Hoi An’s markets are vibrant hubs of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and handcrafted goods. The Hoi An Central Market is a must-visit for those looking to buy authentic Vietnamese ingredients or sample street food.
8. Enjoy Hoi An’s Riverside Ambiance
The Thu Bon River plays an essential role in Hoi An’s charm, with its banks lined with cozy cafés, artisan shops, and traditional wooden boats. Taking a boat ride along the river at sunset offers a serene perspective of the town, as lanterns begin to glow and reflections dance on the water.
9. Visit Tra Que Herb Village
Just outside of Hoi An, Tra Que Herb Village is a small organic farming community known for its fragrant herbs and traditional farming techniques. Visitors can join farmers in their daily tasks, learning about the methods used to grow vegetables and spices that are essential to Vietnamese cuisine.
10. Experience Hoi An’s Nightlife
At night, Hoi An comes alive with live music, rooftop bars, and cultural performances. Whether you prefer an intimate cocktail lounge or a riverside café with acoustic performances, there’s something for everyone.
Plan Your Perfect Adventure and the Best Things to Do in Hoi An
Discover the best things to do in Hoi An with Vespa Adventures and experience its history, culture, and local flavors like never before.