Hoi An, located on Vietnam’s central coast, feels like a step back in time. Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its well-preserved historic town, vivid lantern-lit alleyways, distinctive architectural fusion, and the tranquil flow of the Thu Bon River. This small hamlet has an old-world beauty that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Unlike the busy metropolises of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An begs you to slow down. Its tranquil atmosphere, friendly population, rich cultural heritage, and artistic soul make it a must-see trip in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re wandering under strings of silk lanterns, enjoying world-renowned street food, or discovering hidden temples and tailor shops, Hoi An offers a sensory experience unlike any other.

In this blog, we look at Hoi An’s history, how to get there, five must-see attractions, three must-try culinary treats, and key travel recommendations to help you plan your ideal vacation.

History of Hoi An: A Melting Pot of Cultures

Hoi An has a history that stretches back over 2,000 years, with the city flourishing as a major trading port during the fifteenth and nineteenth centuries. Originally known as Faifo, it was a lively trading center for merchants from Japan, China, India, the Middle East, and, subsequently, Europe. These different traders left their mark on the town’s architecture, gastronomy, and cultural customs.

Japanese Influence

In the 16th century, Japanese merchants moved in Hoi An and built a bustling colony. The Japanese Covered Bridge, one of the city’s most recognizable structures, was created in the early 17th century and serves as a reminder of Vietnam’s long-standing cultural ties with Japan.

Chinese Influence

Chinese traders also had a significant impact on Hoi An’s architecture, establishing several gathering halls (Phuc Kien, Trieu Chau) and ancestral residences. Hoi An’s ornamental art, temples, and spiritual traditions are still thriving and integrated into everyday life.

European Trade

Portuguese, Dutch, and French traders came to Hoi An for spices, pottery, silk, and handicrafts. However, during the late nineteenth century, the Thu Bon River’s siltation made the port unusable, and traffic shifted to Da Nang, reducing Hoi An’s economic importance.

Ironically, this collapse helped to preserve the town’s architecture and soul, while modernization passed it by for decades. Today, Hoi An is a living museum that depicts centuries of global diversity, but it is far from a ghost town, with artists, tailors, chefs, and cultural performers bringing its history to life.

How to Reach Hoi An

Hoi An is easily accessible from various parts of Vietnam and internationally via nearby Da Nang. Here’s how you can reach Hoi An:

By Air

The nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which is approximately 30 kilometers (45 minutes) from Hoi An. This airport serves major cities including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as overseas destinations like Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.

How to travel from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An:

• Taxi/Private Transfer: ~350,000–500,000 VND ($15–20 USD)
• Shuttle Bus: Available through hotels or operators (~100,000 VND)
• Public Bus: Bus #1 from Da Nang to Hoi An (~20,000 VND)

By Train

While Hoi An does not have a railway station, passengers can arrive by train at Da Nang Railway Station and then take a cab or shuttle to Hoi An. Trains connect Da Nang to Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

By Bus

Numerous bus companies run trips to Hoi An from locations including as Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. Buses are cost-effective and pleasant solutions for budget travelers.

By Motorbike

Numerous bus companies run trips to Hoi An from locations including as Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. Buses are cost-effective and pleasant solutions for budget travelers.

5 Must-See Places in Hoi An

Hoi An is brimming with historic charm and cultural highlights. Here are five unmissable places you must include in your itinerary:

1. Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town, the city’s heart, is a maze of narrow alleyways, colonial-style shophouses, yellow walls, and lantern-lit evenings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site encourages you to walk or cycle around, discovering architectural jewels, traditional workshops, and pleasant cafés.

Don’t miss:

• Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu)
• Tan Ky Ancient House
• The Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation
• Hoi An Night Market

Tip: Buy a ticket at the entrance of the Old Town (120,000 VND) which includes access to five attractions of your choice.

2. Japanese Covered Bridge

A symbol of Hoi An, this beautifully arched bridge was built by Japanese merchants in the 17th century to link their neighborhood with the Chinese quarter. It features a small temple inside and is admired for its historical and spiritual significance.

Best time to visit: Early morning or at night when it’s beautifully illuminated.

3. An Bang Beach

An Bang Beach, located about 4 kilometers from the town center, provides a pleasant hideaway complete with white sands, palm trees, and quiet waves. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and eating seafood at beachfront eateries.

Activities:

• Surfing and paddleboarding
• Beach yoga and massage
• Seafood BBQ at sunset

4. Tra Que Vegetable Village

This tranquil community, located approximately 3 kilometers north of Hoi An, is well-known for its organic farming traditions, which date back generations. Take a guided tour to learn about Vietnamese herbs, practice traditional farming practices, and have a homemade lunch.

Highlight: Cooking classes and foot baths with herbal remedies.

5. Hoi An Lantern Market

Every nightfall, the Lantern Market near the Thu Bon River transforms the town into a luminous fantasy. Handcrafted silk lanterns of every color, shape, and size are on display—and available for purchase. It’s a photographer’s dream and a cultural feast.

Tip: Visit during the Full Moon Lantern Festival (once a month) when all electric lights are turned off in favor of lanterns and candles.

3 Culinary Delicacies to Try in Hoi An

Hoi An is often called a culinary capital of Vietnam, offering a range of local dishes that are unique to the region.

Here are three dishes every traveler must try:

1. Cao Lau

Perhaps the most iconic Hoi An dish, Cao Lau is a bowl of thick rice noodles, sliced pork, crunchy croutons, bean sprouts, and aromatic herbs in a light broth.

What makes Cao Lau special?

• The noodles are soaked in ash water from nearby Cham Islands, giving them a unique texture.
• The water must come from Ba Le Well, an ancient local well.

Try it at: Cao Lầu Liên (16 Thái Phiên, Hoi An)

2. White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc)

These delicate steamed dumplings resemble white roses and are filled with shrimp or pork, topped with crispy shallots, and served with fish sauce.

The recipe is a family secret and is supplied to nearly all restaurants in town by one local family.

Try it at: White Rose Restaurant (533 Hai Ba Trung)

3. Banh Mi Hoi An

Hoi An’s take on Bánh Mì is legendary. A crusty French baguette filled with grilled pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili sauce — it’s a flavor bomb.

Try it at:

• Banh Mi Phuong (Anthony Bourdain’s favorite)
• Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen

Price: ~25,000–40,000 VND (just $1–2!)

Points to Note When Visiting Hoi An

To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and culturally respectful experience, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Weather Considerations

Hoi An has two seasons:

• Dry season (Feb–Aug): Best time to visit.
• Rainy season (Sept–Jan): Can cause flooding, especially in Old Town.

Best months: March to May (pleasant weather and fewer tourists)

2. Dress Modestly in Temples

When visiting pagodas or temples, cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering sacred spaces.

3. Beware of Tourist Scams

While Hoi An is relatively safe, always:

• Agree on prices before taking a cyclo or boat ride.
• Be cautious with money exchange booths — use ATMs or banks.
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps (like Grab).

4. Support Local Artisans

Hoi An is known for handmade goods, from tailored suits to lanterns and pottery. Support local businesses and avoid counterfeit items.

5. Avoid Single-Use Plastics

Many cafes and hotels in Hoi An are part of the plastic-free movement. Carry your own bottle and refuse plastic straws or bags.

6. Respect the Culture

• Avoid loud music or inappropriate behavior in Old Town at night.
• Always greet with a smile and a respectful nod.
• Learn a few Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you).

Hoi An is more than just a location; it’s an experience. This town captures hearts and creates lasting memories with its time-frozen streets and fusion architecture, as well as delectable food and friendly residents. It’s a place where the past and present coexist, where art meets legacy, and where every visitor leaves feeling more peaceful and inspired.

So, whether you’re an explorer, a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for peace and quiet, make Hoi An your next Vietnamese trip.