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Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty come together. Known for its ancient streets, colorful lanterns, and renowned cuisine, this destination offers more than just a glimpse into the past. If you're wondering what to do in Hoi An, this guide unveils 12 unforgettable experiences that will make your visit truly special.
“Cao lau” is a signature dish of Hoi An, made with chewy noodles, tender pork slices, crispy rice crackers, and fresh herbs, all soaked in a rich, smoky broth. What sets it apart from other Vietnamese noodles is that they are made with water from ancient Cham wells, giving them a unique texture and flavor. It’s a dish that blends the history and culture of Hoi An, influenced by its role as a trading port, with Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese culinary elements.
A flavorful bowl of Hoi An's iconic cao lau, where smoky pork meets crispy toppings and fresh herbs (Source: Internet)
For the most authentic cao lau experience, Cao Lau Thanh Restaurant is the place to go. This humble eatery is known for serving one of the best versions of this iconic dish, staying true to traditional methods. The restaurant specializes exclusively in cao lau, ensuring each bowl is crafted with expertise. It's best to contact the restaurant ahead of time as its opening hours can vary.
This humble spot at 26 Thai Phien has been serving legendary cao lau for generations (Source: Internet)
The Hoi An Museum of History and Culture is an essential stop for anyone eager to understand the town’s rich cultural layers. Located inside a former pagoda at 10B Tran Hung Dao Street, the museum traces Hoi An’s evolution from its earliest days to its golden era as a thriving international trading port. Visitors can explore over 350 original artifacts, historical documents, and photographs, each offering insights into daily life and the development of Hoi An through different eras.
Step into history at the Hoi An Museum, where ancient charm meets timeless stories (Source: Internet)
The museum’s exhibitions are divided into key historical periods: the Prehistoric and Early History era, the Champa period, and the Dai Viet to Dai Nam period. Notable collections include ancient Sa Huynh pottery, stone and bronze tools, and relics that reflect the diverse cultural influences shaping Hoi An’s identity.
It’s easily accessible on foot or by bicycle from anywhere in the Ancient Town. For the best experience, visit early in the morning to enjoy the exhibits in peace and take time to read the bilingual labels explaining each era in detail.
The museum invites visitors to admire the delicate artistry of the past, captured in wood, metal, and memory (Source: Internet)
Just five kilometers from Hoi An’s Ancient Town, An Bang Beach is one of Vietnam’s most stunning coastal destinations. With its soft golden sand, clear blue waters, and laid-back atmosphere, this beach is the perfect escape for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you prefer to take a refreshing swim, lounge under a sun umbrella, or simply listen to the rhythmic waves, An Bang offers a tranquil retreat from the busy streets of the Old Town.
A canvas of blues and golds, painted fresh every day by the ocean itself (Source: Internet)
Beyond its natural beauty, the area is also home to a vibrant selection of beachfront bars and seafood restaurants. Visitors can enjoy freshly grilled seafood, sip on tropical cocktails, or relax with live music as the sun sets over the horizon. Whether you're looking for a peaceful beach day or a lively evening by the shore, An Bang Beach delivers a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment.
Savoring a peaceful meal with the sound of waves in the background (Source: Internet)
Hoi An is famous not only for its lantern-lit streets and well-preserved architecture but also for its historic assembly halls, which highlight the city's deep-rooted Chinese heritage. Built between the 17th and 18th centuries, these halls were gathering places for Chinese merchants, serving both social and religious purposes. Their grand entrances, intricate carvings, and symbolic decorations showcase remarkable craftsmanship, making them a must-visit for those interested in history and architecture.
From bold facades to serene courtyards, each hall reveals a different chapter of Hoi An’s past (Source: Internet)
Hoi An’s assembly halls are among its most treasured cultural landmarks, each reflecting the heritage of different Chinese communities. Some of the most notable include:
Step into the grandeur of Hoi An’s Assembly Halls, where culture and architecture intertwine (Source: Internet)
Drifting through the lush Bay Mau Coconut Forest in a vibrant basket boat is an unforgettable way to explore Hoi An’s waterways. This unique experience blends nature, culture, and adventure, allowing visitors to navigate a serene maze of coconut palms while learning about the region’s traditional fishing lifestyle. The round, colorful boats add a whimsical charm to the journey, making it both scenic and entertaining.
Surrounded by nature, this colorful journey offers a fresh perspective on Vietnamese tradition (Source: Internet)
One of the most thrilling highlights is the “spinning boat” performance, where skilled local fishermen expertly twirl their basket boats at high speed, creating a dazzling spectacle on the water. Visitors can also try their hand at traditional crab-catching using bamboo tools, guided by experienced locals. This interactive experience offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of fishermen, making it an engaging and educational adventure.
From peaceful glides to fun spins, every moment in the basket boat is unforgettable (Source: Internet)
Hoi An is renowned not only for its ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets but also as a premier destination for custom tailoring in Vietnam. The city offers a wide selection of tailor shops where visitors can order bespoke clothing tailored to their exact measurements and style preferences.
Experience the magic of custom clothing, where your dream outfit comes to life in just a day (Source: Internet)
Whether you're looking for a sharp three-piece suit, a traditional Ao Dai, a formal evening gown, or casual linen attire, local tailors can typically complete your garments within 24 to 48 hours. Some even offer same-day service, making it an incredibly convenient and memorable experience for travelers who value both style and craftsmanship. Prices for tailor-made clothing in Hoi An generally range from 1,000,000 to 3,000,000 VND (~38.46 USD - 115.38 USD), depending on the type of garment and chosen fabric. Here are some of the most well-known tailor shops around Hoi An:
Enjoy a unique shopping experience where everything is made to fit you perfectly (Source: Internet)
On a hot day in Hoi An, few things are as refreshing as a glass of iced herbal tea from Mot. This aromatic drink, made from a blend of lemongrass, lime, and traditional herbs, offers not only a cooling sensation but also a touch of wellness. Served in an elegant cup adorned with a lotus petal, it perfectly reflects the delicate charm of the ancient town.
Refresh your day with a cool, fragrant drink that captures the spirit of Hoi An (Source: Internet)
More than just a beverage, Mot Tea has become a symbol of Hoi An’s culinary culture. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Old Town, this charming tea shop exudes a peaceful, nostalgic vibe with warm wooden interiors, soft lantern light, and the faint scent of herbal teas lingering in the air. Guests can enjoy a selection of traditional Vietnamese food like “mi Quang”, “hoanh thanh”, or “banh my”. The calm atmosphere makes this spot a simple yet truly memorable part of any Hoi An journey.
Cool down with a cup of herbal goodness, perfect for wandering the old streets (Source: Internet)
Hoi An is a food-lover’s paradise, known for its bold, authentic flavors. One of the most rewarding ways to experience this culinary richness is by joining a cooking class led by local chefs. These interactive sessions offer more than just recipes, they reveal the traditions, techniques, and stories behind Hoi An’s most beloved dishes. Participants often learn to prepare specialties like cao Lau, “banh xeo”, “fresh spring rolls”, and “pho”, all using locally sourced ingredients.
Tourists are discovering new techniques, flavors, and a deeper appreciation for local food (Source: Internet)
Most classes are easily booked through restaurants or tour providers around the Old Town, with many including a guided visit to the market beforehand. There, you can discover local herbs, spices, and produce while gaining a better understanding of Vietnamese food culture. Whether you’re a curious traveler or an aspiring home cook, this hands-on experience offers a delicious and meaningful connection to the local way of life.
Uncover the secrets behind iconic dishes while cooking alongside friendly local experts (Source: Internet)
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Hoi An is relaxing at a rooftop café or bar, where you can sip on a delicious drink while admiring the breathtaking view of the ancient town. From above, you can take in the sight of traditional terracotta rooftops, the peaceful Hoai River, and the lantern-lit streets that create a magical ambiance. It’s the perfect way to soak in the town’s charm, enjoy a serene moment, and immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of Hoi An.
Enjoy a peaceful escape above the city, where wide-open views and gentle breezes set the perfect mood (Source: Internet)
Here are three must-visit spots:
Enjoy an intriguing moment with your drink and an astonishing view from above (Source: Internet)
If you're looking to explore Hoi An's heritage through a more immersive and theatrical lens, the Hoi An Memories Show promises a truly captivating experience. Held at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, this large-scale outdoor performance combines powerful visuals, elaborate staging, and the talents of hundreds of performers to portray the town's journey through four centuries of history.
Step into the world of old Hoi An, where cultural performances and recreated street scapes memorably tell the town’s story (Source: Internet)
Rather than simply recounting historical events, the show brings Hoi An’s legacy to life with expressive storytelling, traditional music, and mesmerizing choreography. It offers a unique cultural experience through live performances, interactive exhibits, recreated historical settings, and authentic local art forms that allow visitors to feel the soul of the ancient town in a vivid, emotionally engaging way. Perfect for both history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, it provides a memorable and visually stunning journey through time.
Explore a unique park that blends history, theater, and traditional design to bring the heritage of Hoi An to life (Source: Internet)
The Hoi An Lantern Festival is a magical celebration that transforms the ancient town into a dreamlike wonderland of light and color. Held monthly on the full moon night of the lunar calendar (typically on the 14th or 15th day of each lunar month), the festival is one of the city’s most iconic cultural experiences, attracting visitors from around the world. As night falls, thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the streets, bridges, and historic houses, casting a warm, romantic glow over the entire Old Town.
As night falls, the lanterns bring a quiet energy that makes every corner feel special (Source: Internet)
During the festival, visitors can admire the glowing lanterns, release paper lanterns on the Hoai River for good luck. To participate in the lantern floating activity, visitors need to rent a small boat. A 20–30 minute ride typically costs 30,000 VND - 50,000 VND (~1.15 USD - 1.92 USD) per person for groups of 2–6 passengers. Enjoy traditional music performances, folk games, and cultural shows scattered throughout the town. It's a truly unforgettable way to experience the charm, spirituality, and festive spirit of Hoi An.
Stroll through a softly lit river where colorful lanterns create a calm and magical atmosphere (Source: Internet)
If you have one or two days to explore the captivating Hoi An Ancient Town, here's a suggested self-guided itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:
Day
Detailed activities
Day 1
Morning: Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge and visit the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture
Afternoon: Explore local Hoi An Central Market for handmade goods, souvenirs, and try Mot iced herbal tea. For lunch, try Cao Lau Thanh at 26 Thai Phien Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province
Evening: Visit a local restaurant for traditional Vietnamese cuisine or rooftop bars and cafe like Faifor coffee, The Deck Hoi An, and Me Hoi An
Day 2
Morning: Take a bike ride to An Bang Beach for a relaxing morning
Afternoon: Visit the Hoi An Impression Theme Park for a cultural experience or explore the historical exhibits
Evening: Have dinner at Vy's Market Restaurant & Cooking School at 3 Nguyen Hoang Street, then take a peaceful boat ride on the Hoài River or join the Lantern Festival if your trip aligns
Hoi An offers a rich mix of history, culture, and natural beauty for anyone wondering what to do in Hoi An. Whether you're strolling through its ancient streets, enjoying local dishes, or exploring its vibrant landscapes, there’s something for everyone. From serene beachside moments to engaging in local crafts and traditions, Hoi An ensures a memorable experience for every traveler.
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