Step Into a A Timeless Journey at Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is a charming town with old houses and glowing lanterns. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town's rich history and culture while enjoying delicious local dishes. In the article below, discover the town’s famous landmarks and unique experiences with Vietnam Airlines.

1. Overview of Hoi An Ancient Town: A Living Museum of Time

Located in Tran Hung Dao Street, Minh An Ward, Quang Nam Province in Central Vietnam, Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its ancient charm and peaceful atmosphere, Hoi An is often referred to as a living museum. Every corner, house, and structure holds traces of a long and rich history.

Hoi An Ancient Town rests along the Thu Bon River, showcasing timeless architecture (Source: Internet)

From the 16th to the 18th century, Hoi An thrived as a vital trading port, connecting merchants from Japan, China, India, and other countries. This bustling trade hub became a crossroads of cultures, with traces of these influences still visible in the town’s architecture, cuisine, and local traditions.

Hoi An’s culture is evident in its unique architecture, traditional festivals, rich cuisine, and long-standing customs. The harmonious blend of history, culture, and nature makes Hoi An an alluring destination, perfect for travelers seeking to explore and experience its timeless beauty.

2. Instructions for Traveling to Hoi An Ancient Town

Currently, Hoi An Ancient Town does not have its own airport or train station. Therefore, if you’re planning a trip, you’ll need to travel to Da Nang first and then continue to Hoi An using one of the following transportation options:

• Bus: Take bus number 01 from Da Nang Central Bus Station to Hoi An for 20,000 - 30,000 VND (~USD 0.8 - 1.2). It runs from 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM, every 15-20 minutes. Budget-friendly, but can be crowded and less comfortable.

• Taxi: A taxi ride costs 350,000 - 450,000 VND (~USD 14 - 18), offering a fast, comfortable, and private journey, ideal for small groups. However, it’s expensive, especially during peak hours.

• Motorbike: Renting a motorbike costs 120,000 - 180,000 VND per day (~USD 5 - 7), giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s perfect for adventure but requires good driving skills and may not be suitable for long distances or less experienced riders.

On the journey from Da Nang to Hoi An by motorbike, visitors can stop along the way to capture stunning roadside scenery (Source: Internet)

Hoi An Ancient Town is a pedestrian-friendly area with restrictions on motorized vehicles. Here are the best ways to explore in the town:

• Walking: The most enjoyable way to experience Hoi An’s charm. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it convenient to explore on foot.

• Bicycle rental: An eco-friendly and healthy way to explore both the ancient town and surrounding countryside. Rental prices range from 20,000 - 50,000 VND per day (~ USD 0.8 - USD 2) and are available at local shops or hotels.

• Motorbike rental: While motorbikes are not allowed inside the Ancient Town, they are perfect for visiting nearby areas such as An Bang Beach, Tra Que Vegetable Village, or the Coconut Palm Forest. Rental costs range from 150,000 - 200,000 VND per day (~ USD 6 - USD 8).

3. Places to Visit: Hoi An’s Hidden Corners and Timeless Icons

Hoi An is a perfect blend of ancient charm and hidden corners steeped in history. Here are some must-visit spots where you can experience the town’s timeless beauty.

3.1. Japanese Bridge 

The Japanese Bridge is located on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, spanning a small branch of the Hoai River. 

Built in the 16th century by Japanese traders, the Japanese Bridge is a historic icon of Hoi An, reflecting a blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese influences. With its elegant curved roof, intricate carvings, and a shrine to Bac De Tran Vu, it carries both cultural and spiritual significance. 

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An built with architectural influences from Vietnam, Japan, and China (Source: Internet)

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An glows under the lantern light, reflecting its timeless beauty (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips:

• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the bridge’s beauty and avoid crowds.

• Take photos from various angles to capture its full structure and scenic surroundings.

• Avoid lingering during peak hours to prevent congestion on the bridge.

3.2. Hoai River

Historically, the river played a crucial role in Hoi An’s development as a major trading port, where merchants from Japan, China, and Europe docked their boats to exchange goods. Today, it is a symbol of the town’s cultural identity, hosting vibrant lantern festivals and traditional boat rides.

Sunrise over the Hoai River in Hoi An, where colorful boats and ancient houses reflect a timeless charm (Source: In the internet)

Hoi An at night glows with lantern lights, shimmering reflections on the Hoai River, creating a magical atmosphere (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips:

• Take a boat ride at sunset to experience the river’s beauty and watch the lanterns light up the water.

• Release a floating lantern for good luck and immerse yourself in a cherished local tradition.

• Visit during the monthly Lantern Festival on the 14th day of each lunar month for a magical experience with no electric lights, only the glow of candles and lanterns.

3.3. Hoi An’s Central Market

Located along Tran Phu and Bach Dang Streets, Hoi An’s Central Market is the town’s busiest trading hub, offering a vibrant glimpse into local daily life.

Historically, the market has been a key meeting point for traders and artisans, contributing to Hoi An’s reputation as a thriving commercial port. Today, it remains a cultural hotspot where you can find a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences in its food, spices, and handicrafts.

Hoi An Central Market specializes in fresh produce and signature local dishes (Source: Internet)

Hoi An Central Market bustles with vibrant stalls, local specialties, and the daily rhythms of traditional Vietnamese life (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips:

• Try local specialties like ‘cao lau’, ‘banh mi’, and fresh seafood for an authentic taste of Hoi An.

• Shop for souvenirs such as tailor-made clothes, spices, and handmade lanterns at reasonable prices.

• Visit early in the morning to see the market at its liveliest and get the freshest produce.

3.4. Ancient Shophouses (Tan Ky, Phung Hung, Quan Thang)

Nestled along Nguyen Thai Hoc and Tran Phu Streets, these centuries-old shophouses stand as living testaments to Hoi An’s golden age of trade. Built by wealthy merchants, these shophouses blend Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture. 

Tan Ky Ancient House, a well-preserved heritage site in Hoi An, reflects over 200 years of cultural and architectural history (Source: Internet)

Phung Hung Ancient House, over 240 years old, showcasing a blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architecture (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips:

• Visit Tan Ky (101 Nguyen Thai Hoc), Phung Hung (4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai), and Quan Thang (77 Tran Phu) to explore their distinct architectural features and historical significance.

• Admire exquisite details like Chinese calligraphy panels, mother-of-pearl inlays, and Japanese-style wooden beams.

• Join a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the merchant families and their influence on Hoi An’s trade history.

• Entry requires an Ancient Town ticket (~120,000 VND/person), which grants access to multiple heritage sites.

3.5. Chinese Assembly Halls 

Located on Tran Phu Street, these assembly halls belong to five Chinese congregations, including Fujian, Cantonese, Hainan, Chaozhou, and Hokkien, with distinct architectural styles.

The halls served as worship and gathering places for Chinese merchants. Their architecture blends Chinese and Vietnamese influences, with intricate carvings, murals, and ornate altars. Inside, vermilion dragons, incense spirals, and golden deities symbolize prosperity and protection. The assembly hall features a main hall, east and west wings, and a back gate, which visitors should explore in turn.

This site is a place for prayer, community activities, and a spiritual destination to honor Tien Hien and Quan Cong (Source: Internet)

A stunning mosaic dragon sculpture at the Fujian Assembly Hall, symbolizing strength, prosperity, and spiritual protection (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips:

• Explore the unique features of each hall, from the impressive dragon statues in the Cantonese Hall to the intricately painted doors of the Chaozhou Hall.

• Watch the incense spirals burn slowly overhead, creating a mystical atmosphere filled with the scent of tradition.

• Learn about the role of Chinese merchants in shaping Hoi An’s trade and cultural landscape.

• Entry requires an Ancient Town ticket (~120,000 VND/person), which grants access to multiple heritage sites.

3.6. Secret Alleys of Le Loi Street

Tucked behind Le Loi Street, these hidden alleys run parallel to Tran Phu Street, with entrances near 66 and 87 Le Loi. Once a hub for silk merchants, they were key trade routes where artisans crafted textiles. Lined with wooden doors, mossy walls, and lanterns, they still retain Hoi An’s old-world charm. Today, artisans continue to hand-stitch intricate silk patterns, preserving the town’s textile heritage.

A serene scene on Le Loi Street, Hoi An, with vibrant yellow buildings, greenery, and the lively flow of local life (Source: Internet)

Le Loi street with charming lantern-lit, where vibrant colors, lush greenery, and a lively atmosphere create a picture-perfect scene (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips

• Visit traditional silk artisans who still weave fabrics by hand, offering a rare look into Hoi An’s historic silk trade.

• Capture the aged wooden facades and lantern-lit pathways for stunning, nostalgic photos.

• Stroll around in the early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting and a peaceful experience.

• Explore the alleys near Ba Le Well (66 Le Loi) and Silk Village Workshops (87 Le Loi) to find hidden shops, workshops, and quiet, photogenic corners.

3.7. The Forgotten Ancient Well

Tucked in a quiet alley near Ba Le Well on 45 Phan Chau Trinh Street, this ancient well is one of Hoi An’s oldest landmarks. Centuries old, it has supplied water for generations and is crucial to making the town’s famous “cao lau”. The well’s unique mineral-rich water is believed to carry the essence of Hoi An’s history and culinary heritage.

The Ba Le well in Hoi An is a living testament to the town's rich history and cultural heritage (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips

• Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and to see locals drawing water.

• Try authentic ‘cao lau’ at nearby eateries to taste the flavors made from this historic well.

• Capture the aged stone walls and the quiet charm of this hidden gem in photos.

• Be respectful when visiting, as the well is still in use by locals.

Be respectful when visiting, as the well is still in use by locals (Source: Internet)

3.8. The Museum of Folk Culture

Located at 33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, the Museum of Folk Culture preserves the town’s heritage through traditional crafts and artifacts. It offers insights into the lives of artisans, fishermen, and merchants who shaped Hoi An’s identity. The museum showcases local traditions like lantern-making and silk weaving, keeping the culture alive.

The Museum of Folklore in Hoi An, a beautifully preserved historical building, offers a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage (Source: Internet)

A glimpse into Hoi An's past, featuring a traditional wooden boat and ancient tools on display at the Museum of Folklore (Source: Internet)

Top Experiences & Tips

• Explore exhibits featuring handwoven textiles, folk paintings, and traditional tools used in everyday life.

• Watch live demonstrations of calligraphy, pottery, and lantern-making by local artisans.

• Visit the second-floor balcony for a panoramic view of Hoi An Ancient Town.

• Entry is included with the Ancient Town ticket (~120,000 VND/person), granting access to multiple heritage sites.

4. Iconic Dishes to Savor in Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An’s cuisine is a blend of rich flavors, unique textures, and fresh ingredients, reflecting the town’s diverse cultural influences. Below are some must-try dishes, categorized into soupy delights and dry specialties, along with key ingredients and potential allergens.

Turmeric Quang noodles and pork rice noodles (cao lau) are two specialty noodle dishes of Hoi An ancient town cuisine (Source: Internet)

Pork Rice Noodle (Cao Lau): Cao Lau features thick, yellow rice noodles topped with tender slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons. The dish is savory and aromatic, with a slightly smoky flavor from the broth, and is traditionally made using water from the ancient Ba Le Well.

Turmeric Quang Noodles (Mi Quang): Mi Quang is a vibrant noodle dish made with wide, yellow noodles, turmeric-infused broth, shrimp, pork, and herbs, topped with peanuts and rice crackers. The flavor is rich and complex, with a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and herbal notes.

Hoi An Baguette Sandwich (Banh Quai Vac): This Hoi An specialty features a crispy, soft baguette stuffed with a flavorful mix of pork, shrimp, and fresh vegetables. It’s lightly sweet and savory, with a satisfying crunch from the toasted bread.

Hoi An Baguette Banh mi (Banh Mi): Banh Mi is a Vietnamese-style sandwich with a crispy baguette filled with a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and a touch of spicy sauce. The flavor is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy, with a crunchy texture from the bread.

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese-style sandwich with a crispy baguette filled with a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and a touch of spicy sauce

Sticky Rice Cake with Gai Leaves (Banh It La Gai): Banh It La Gai is a sticky rice cake wrapped in gai leaves, filled with mung beans and a hint of pork. The flavor is earthy, slightly sweet, and savory, with a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.

Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes (Banh Xeo): Banh Xeo are crispy, golden pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. They have a savory and slightly spicy flavor, with a crunchy texture on the outside and a tender, flavorful filling inside.

Crispy Rice Crackers with Stir-Fried Clams (Banh Dap Hen Xao): Banh Dap Hen Xao features crispy rice crackers served with stir-fried clams, herbs, and a touch of chili. The dish combines a delightful crunch with the savory, slightly briny taste of the clams and a spicy kick from the chili.

Hoi An Chicken Rice (Com Ga Hoi An): Com Ga Hoi An is a fragrant dish of tender chicken served with turmeric-infused rice, topped with herbs, peanuts, and crispy shallots. The flavor is savory, aromatic, and mildly spicy, with a perfect balance of textures from the tender chicken and crispy garnishes.

White rose dumplings, Hoi An baguette sandwich, chicken rice or Vietnamese pancakes are must-try dishes in Hoi An ancient town (Source: Internet)

5. Where to Stay at Hoian Ancient Town?

Hoi An Ancient Town offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit various budgets, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the town's rich cultural heritage. Here are some recommendations categorized by budget:

5.1. Traditional Heritage Hotels ($60-$100/night)

Hoi An Historic Hotel: Established in 1991, this hotel is admired for its central location, charm, and world-class facilities and offers excellent services, including a full range of amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and guided tours to enhance guests' stay. an ideal place to stay for visitors to Hoi An and its surrounding attractions.

A stylish and spacious room at the Hoi An Historic Hotel, offers modern comfort with a touch of traditional elegance (Source: Internet)

Vinh Hung Heritage Hotel: Located within a restored ancient house, this hotel offers guests a genuine Hoi An experience, blending traditional architecture with modern amenities.

5.2. Mid-Range Boutique Hotels ($40-$70/night)

Lantana Boutique Hotel Hoi An: This hotel features elegant riverside accommodations that combine local charm with modern comfort, providing guests with a serene retreat. ​

Little Hoi An: Situated near the historic Old Town, this boutique hotel offers Colonial-style rooms with a French-Vietnamese blend and personalized service, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area. ​

A cozy and elegant room at Little Hoi An, blending traditional Vietnamese design with modern comfort for a relaxing stay (Source: Internet)

5.3. Budget Guesthouses & Homestays ($15-$40/night)

Hoi An Sincerity Hotel & Spa: Offers affordable accommodations with modern amenities, including a pool and spa, providing great value for budget-conscious travelers. ​

A bright and airy room at Hoi An Sincerity Hotel & Spa offers comfort and tranquility with a touch of modern elegance (Source: Internet)

Calm House Hotel Hoi An: A budget-friendly option offering comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere, located within easy reach of the Old Town. ​

Hoi An Heart Villa: This homestay provides cozy accommodations with a personal touch, allowing guests to experience local hospitality in a central location.

6. What to Buy at Hoi An to Carry Home?

Hoi An is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods and cultural keepsakes, each reflecting the town’s rich history and artistry. Here are some must-buy souvenirs, along with their cultural significance and price range:

Silk Lanterns: A symbol of luck and prosperity, these vibrant, handwoven lanterns are crafted using bamboo frames and fine silk. Seen glowing throughout the Ancient Town, they make for a stunning home decoration. Price: USD 3 - USD 20, depending on size and design.

Rather than just purchasing a lantern, try a lantern-making workshop in Cam Chau Village, where artisans will help you create your own. It’s a unique, hands-on way to take home a personalized piece of Hoi An’s heritage!

Lanterns are one of the most popular souvenirs visitors can buy to capture the town’s cultural essence (Source: Internet)

Calligraphy Scrolls: Featuring hand-painted verses from Vietnamese poets, each scroll is a delicate blend of ink and meaning, reflecting wisdom, prosperity, and life’s beauty. Price: USD 10 - USD 30, depending on size and customization.

Handmade Leather Goods: Crafted by skilled artisans, these soft leather travel bags, wallets, and sandals are made to last, offering both style and durability. Custom designs are available in many shops. Price: USD 20 - USD 100, depending on the item and craftsmanship.

Hoi An Silk: Known for its lightweight and lustrous quality, Hoi An silk is dyed using traditional methods passed down for generations, making it one of the finest textiles in Vietnam. Price: USD 5 - USD 50 per meter, depending on quality.

Known for its lightweight and lustrous quality, Hoi An silk is dyed using traditional methods passed down for generations, making it one of the finest textiles in Vietnam (Source: Internet)

7. Final Insider Tips for Your Best Visit

Make the most of your trip to Hoi An with these insider tips to enhance your experience!

• Visit in May to September: Enjoy a more enjoyable sightseeing experience.

• Stay late for the magic: After sunset, the lantern-lit streets become quieter, offering the perfect ambiance for dreamy photos.

• Join Hoi An Lantern Festival: On the 14th of each lunar month, the town transforms into a glowing wonderland of floating candles and lanterns.

• Always bargain: Don’t settle for the first price. Polite negotiation is expected and often leads to better deals.

• Ask for "non-tourist" dishes: Local eateries often have off-menu specialties, so be sure to ask for authentic flavors beyond the usual options.

• Visit nearby attractions: Thanh Ha Pottery Village (3km), Tra Que Vegetable Village (4km), An Bang Beach (5km), My Son Sanctuary (40km).

The stunning My Son Sanctuary stands as a testament to the once-thriving Champa Kingdom (Source: Internet)

Experience the timeless beauty of Hoi An Ancient Town, where lantern-lit streets, historic shophouses, and rich cultural heritage create an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, indulging in local delicacies, or cruising along the Hoai River, Hoi An offers a journey like no other.

Book your flight to Da Nang with Vietnam Airlines and make your way to Hoi An with ease. As Vietnam’s 4-star national carrier, Vietnam Airlines offers modern aircraft, exceptional service, and seamless connections. Start your journey today and discover the magic of Hoi An!