Plan Your Adventure in Hoi An
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Must do's and try's in Hoi An
If you think Hoi An is just about pretty lanterns and ancient streets, think again! This charming town is a treasure trove of flavors, quirks, and experiences that will tickle your taste buds and spark your sense of adventure. Dive into the local scene, and you’ll find that the true spirit of Hoi An is nestled in its delightful delicacies and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
- Cao Lau: This iconic noodle dish is a must-try! With its chewy noodles, tender pork, and fragrant herbs, it’s a flavor explosion that’s as unique as Hoi An itself—rumor has it the secret to the broth is the water from a specific well in town. Who knew hydration could be so delicious?
- Full Moon Festival: Immerse yourself in the enchanting Full Moon Festival, where the streets glow with lanterns, and locals honor their ancestors. Join in the festivities with traditional games and food stalls—just don’t trip over the dragon dancers; they can be a bit overzealous!
- Tra Que Vegetable Village: Escape the tourist bustle and visit this peaceful farming village just outside of town. Here, you can join a cooking class and learn how to make dishes using the freshest herbs and veggies. It’s like farm-to-table, but with a little dirt under your fingernails—chic, right?
- Banana Flower Salad: Ditch the standard pho for this refreshing dish—a crunchy, vibrant mix of banana flower, herbs, and shrimp. It’s a salad that feels like a warm hug on a plate, plus it’ll make you feel extra virtuous as you indulge in all the other deliciousness around!
Discovering Hoi An is about savoring the unexpected flavors and experiences that make this place so special. Get ready to eat, explore, and embrace the quirks of this delightful town!
Sightseeing in Hoi An
- An Bang Beach
- Japanese Covered Bridge
- Hoi An Ancient Town
- Tan Ky Old House
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall
- Cooking Classes (because you can't eat just pho, can you?)
- Night Market (where bargaining is an Olympic sport)
Plan your activity
What to do in Hoi An?
Where to go?
The best areas in Hoi An
Hoi An is a treasure trove of unique experiences and hidden gems that are just waiting to be explored. Each area has its own character and charm, making them worthy of your time and attention—because who doesn't love a good adventure with a side of local culture? Let’s dive into some of the must-visit spots that will add a splash of excitement to your travel diary.
Old Town
Step into a living postcard! Hoi An's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site where lanterns glow like stars. Stroll through ancient streets lined with colorful shops, and don’t forget to sample the street food—your taste buds will thank you (and your waistline might not, but who’s counting?).
Cam Kim Island
Escape the hustle and bustle and hop on a bike to Cam Kim Island. This serene paradise is perfect for those who want to indulge in rural bliss while pretending to be a local. With stunning rice paddies and traditional wooden boat-making workshops, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time—minus the lack of Wi-Fi.
An Bang Beach
Sun, sand, and surf await at An Bang Beach! This is where you can finally fulfill your dream of being a beach bum. Grab a coconut, plop down on the sand, and let the waves wash your worries away. Just remember, sunscreen is your best friend—unless you enjoy the lobster look.
Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Get your hands dirty at Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where you can channel your inner artisan. Mold clay into pots, vases, or whatever your heart desires. Just be careful not to break anything—your wallet might not be ready for the consequences!
Tra Que Herb Village
If you’re a fan of fresh herbs (or just enjoy the smell of basil), Tra Que Herb Village is your paradise! Here, you can roll up your sleeves and learn about organic farming. Just don’t get too attached to the veggies; they might end up in your next meal!
Transportation tips
How to get around in Hoi An
Getting around Hoi An is an adventure in itself, with multiple options to suit every travel style. Whether you prefer biking through rice paddies or taking a leisurely stroll through the lantern-lit streets, Hoi An offers a variety of transportation choices.
Public Transport
While Hoi An doesn’t have extensive public transport, local buses connect it to nearby cities like Da Nang. The bus station is conveniently located and offers a budget-friendly option for day trips.
Tickets usually cost around 30,000 VND (about $1.30) for a ride to Da Nang, making it an inexpensive way to get out and see more. Just keep an eye on the schedule, as buses may not run frequently.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are readily available in Hoi An, with reputable companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun. Using ride-hailing apps like Grab is also popular and can be more convenient.
Expect to pay around 15,000 VND (approximately $0.65) as a base fare, with extra charges per kilometer. It’s a good idea to confirm the fare estimate in the app before hitting the road.
Biking Around
Biking is one of the best ways to see Hoi An. Many hotels offer bike rentals, and you can explore the countryside or nearby beaches at your own pace.
Rental prices typically range from 30,000 to 50,000 VND (about $1.30 to $2.20) per day. Just remember to wear a helmet and keep your balance; the local traffic can be a bit chaotic!
Plan your journey
Ready-to use itineraries for Hoi An
Browse our itineraries and find the perfect plan for your trip!
Get to know Hoi An
Frequently asked questions about Hoi An
Is it true that Hoi An's tailors sometimes ghost you?
Absolutely, it’s a thing. Many travelers report that after you place an order, your tailor might vanish into thin air—especially if they’re busy. It’s not personal; it’s just the chaotic rhythm of Hoi An. To avoid the heartbreak of a missed fitting, try to pick a tailor with a good reputation (word of mouth is golden here) and don’t be shy about popping in to check on your order. Set a clear timeline and be proactive; they appreciate it more than you think!
Can I actually find a decent cup of coffee in Hoi An?
Yes, but you’ll have to dig a little. Hoi An is a haven for Vietnamese drip coffee, but if you’re craving something more artisanal, you’ll need to venture off the beaten path. Look for places like The Espresso Station or even the newer cafes that focus on specialty brews. Be prepared for a bit of trial and error; some spots might serve coffee that tastes like it was brewed in a sock. Trust your instincts and ask locals for their favorites!
What’s the deal with the “lanterns” in Hoi An—are they just for show?
Not just for show, but they can be a nuisance. Those beautiful lanterns are iconic, sure, but they also attract a swarm of mosquitoes at night. If you’re planning a romantic dinner along the river, bring some bug spray or risk turning your meal into a buffet for the local insect population. And yes, they’re charming, but don’t be surprised if you’re dodging lanterns dangling low enough to give you a headache!
Can I ride a bike through the rice paddies without getting lost?
Good luck with that! While biking through the rice paddies sounds idyllic, the reality is that the paths can be a maze. One wrong turn and you might find yourself in a farmer’s field or worse, stuck in a muddy puddle. Download a map app with offline capabilities, or better yet, join a guided tour to avoid the stress of navigating. Trust me, you don’t want to be the tourist who ends up asking a water buffalo for directions.
Why do some restaurants in Hoi An have weird opening hours?
Because they can! Many local eateries open and close based on the owner’s whims, which can lead to some serious hunger pangs if you’re not paying attention. Some places might close for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta or just because they ran out of fresh ingredients. Your best bet? Ask around or check social media for the latest updates, and keep your lunch plans flexible. A little patience goes a long way here!
Are the street food stalls really safe to eat at?
Generally, yes, but use your judgement. Hoi An’s street food scene is legendary, but not all stalls are created equal. Look for places with a line of locals; that’s usually a good sign. Avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out for too long or has questionable hygiene. If you’re unsure, stick to cooked items rather than raw, and always trust your gut—if it looks sketchy, it probably is!
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