HOI AN TRAVEL GUIDE: A TIMELESS TREASURE OF VIETNAM

HOI AN TRAVEL GUIDE: A TIMELESS TREASURE OF VIETNAM 

Nestled on the banks of the Thu Bon River in Central Vietnam, Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lantern-lit streets, timeless charm, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or a romantic traveler, Hoi An promises a journey back in time with a touch of modern comfort.

📍 Where is Hoi An?

Hoi An is located in Quang Nam Province, about 30 km south of Da Nang. It’s easy to combine a trip to Hoi An with Da Nang and Hue, as they lie along Vietnam’s famous heritage route.

🚗 How to Get to Hoi An

✈️ By plane:

• Fly to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – the nearest airport (45 mins away).

• From Da Nang, take a private car, taxi, or shuttle bus to Hoi An.

🚗 By car/bus:

• From Da Nang: 45 minutes

• From Hue: Around 3–4 hours via Hai Van Pass

• Open-tour buses available from major cities like Hue, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

Hoi An has a warm climate most of the year, but the best time to visit is:

• February – May: Cool, dry weather, perfect for sightseeing.

• June – August: Hot but great for beach trips nearby.

• September – November: Still warm, fewer crowds.

⚠️ Avoid October–November’s rainy season as flooding may occur in the old town.

🏮 Top Things to Do in Hoi An

🏙️ Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

• Stroll through narrow streets lined with centuries-old houses, tailor shops, art galleries, and cafés.

• Visit landmarks like Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and Fujian Assembly Hall.

• See the town transform at night with glowing lanterns.

🛶 Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River

• Go at sunset for magical reflections and lantern-floating rituals.

• Join a traditional basket boat tour in nearby coconut forests.

🏖️ Relax at An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach

• Just 10–15 minutes from town. Perfect for sunbathing, seafood, and water sports.

🧵 Get tailor-made clothes

• Hoi An is famous for its tailoring. Get suits, dresses, or traditional ao dai made in 24 hours.

🍜 Join a cooking class

• Learn to make signature dishes like Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and spring rolls in a local kitchen or farm village.

🚲 Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village

• Ride through rice paddies and meet local farmers.

• Try herbal foot baths and Vietnamese-style farming.

🍲 What to Eat in Hoi An?

Must-try local dishes:

• Cao Lau – chewy noodles with pork, herbs, and crispy crackers (only found in Hoi An)

• White Rose Dumplings – steamed rice dumplings shaped like flowers

• Banh Mi Hoi An – famous Vietnamese sandwich with a local twist

• Com Ga (Chicken Rice) – a flavorful Hoi An specialty

📍Recommended spots:

• Banh Mi Phuong – loved by Anthony Bourdain

• Miss Ly’s Restaurant – authentic Hoi An cuisine

• Morning Glory – for upscale Vietnamese dishes

🛏️ Where to Stay in Hoi An?

Luxury:

• Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – beachfront luxury

• Almanity Wellness Resort – spa & wellness retreat

• La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa – peaceful riverside stay

Mid-range & Boutique:

• Little Riverside Hoi An – riverside view, close to old town

• Hoi An Chic Hotel – rice field views

• Lantana Boutique Hotel – walking distance to town

Budget:

• Plenty of homestays and hostels starting from $10–15/night.

• Great options for solo travelers or backpackers.

🛍️ What to Buy in Hoi An?

• Tailored clothing

• Lanterns & handicrafts

• Leather bags and shoes

• Organic soaps, essential oils, and ceramics

💡 Final Thought

Hoi An is a destination that touches the heart – a perfect blend of culture, history, cuisine, and warm hospitality. Whether you stay for 2 days or a week, the magic of this ancient town will linger in your memories.

Come, walk the lantern-lit alleys, taste the street food, cruise down the river, and fall in love with Hoi An – the soul of Vietnam.