Hoi An Travel Guide: Vietnam’s Timeless Lantern-Lit Town

Step into the past and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled on Vietnam’s central coast. With its well-preserved ancient streets, lantern-filled nights, riverside charm, and fusion of Asian and European influences, Hoi An is more than just a destination—it’s an experience.
 

This comprehensive Hoi An travel guide covers everything from historical sites and culinary delights to shopping tips and best times to visit, helping you plan a memorable journey to one of Vietnam’s most beloved towns.

📍 Where is Hoi An?

Province: Quang Nam

Region: Central Vietnam

Closest major city: Da Nang (30 km north)

Famous for: Ancient town, lanterns, tailors, riverside cafés, and cultural heritage

✈️ How to Get to Hoi An

By Air

Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is the nearest airport.

Connected to major Vietnamese cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh) and international hubs (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul).

Transfer to Hoi An takes about 45 minutes by car or shuttle.

By Train

The nearest train station is in Da Nang.

From there, take a taxi, bus, or shuttle to Hoi An.

By Bus

Direct buses connect Hoi An with Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

✨ Why Visit Hoi An?

✅ Ancient streets with preserved architecture
✅ Romantic riverside walks and lantern nights
✅ World-class tailor-made clothing
✅ Fusion cuisine blending East and West
✅ Bicycle-friendly countryside and beaches
✅ Festivals, temples, and traditional crafts

🏛️ Top Things to Do in Hoi An

1. Wander the Ancient Town (Old Quarter)

A UNESCO-listed historic area with yellow-walled buildings, red-tiled roofs, and wooden shutters.
Highlights include:

Japanese Covered Bridge

Old House of Tan Ky

Fujian Assembly Hall

Hoi An Central Market

Entry requires a ticket (valid for multiple attractions within the Old Town).

2. Release a Lantern on the Thu Bon River

At night, the river glows with floating lanterns. You can rent a small boat and release your own, making a wish as tradition suggests.

3. Get Clothes Tailor-Made

Hoi An is famous for bespoke tailoring. In just 24–48 hours, you can have custom suits, dresses, or shoes made.

Recommended tailors: Yaly Couture, BeBe Tailor, Kimmy Custom Tailor

4. Take a Cooking Class

Learn how to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and cao lau. Many classes include a local market tour.

Top cooking schools:

Red Bridge Cooking School

Green Bamboo

Ms. Vy’s Market Restaurant

5. Cycle to the Countryside

Rent a bike and explore rice fields, lotus ponds, and local villages.

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Ride to Thanh Ha Pottery Village

See water buffalo and local farmers at work

6. Relax on An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach

A short bike or taxi ride from the Old Town takes you to peaceful, sandy beaches with clear water and seafood restaurants.

7. Visit Hoi An Night Market

Held nightly on Nguyen Hoang Street across the river.
Buy lanterns, souvenirs, jewelry, and enjoy local street snacks like grilled squid and banh mi.

🍲 What to Eat in Hoi An

Must-Try Dishes

Cao Lau – Chewy noodles with pork and crispy croutons

White Rose Dumplings – Shrimp-stuffed dumplings unique to Hoi An

Mi Quang – Turmeric rice noodles with shrimp and herbs

Banh Mi Hoi An – Crispy baguette with meat, pate, and pickled vegetables

Com Ga (Chicken Rice) – Flavorful rice dish with shredded chicken

Popular Restaurants

Banh Mi Phuong – Anthony Bourdain’s favorite banh mi

Morning Glory – Modern Vietnamese with a heritage twist

Miss Ly Café – Cozy spot with local classics

Nu Eatery – Creative fusion tucked in an alley

The Deck at Anantara – Riverside fine dining

🛍️ Shopping in Hoi An

Tailor shops – Get clothes, shoes, and bags made to measure

Lanterns – Handmade silk lanterns in all colors and shapes

Handicrafts – Bamboo products, ceramics, leather goods

Hoi An Central Market – Spices, textiles, fresh produce

Night Market – Best for souvenirs, T-shirts, and local art

📸 Best Instagram Spots

Japanese Covered Bridge

Lantern-lit streets at night

Thu Bon River boats at sunset

An Bang Beach swing chairs

Yellow colonial walls with bicycles

📅 Best Time to Visit Hoi An

February to April is ideal, with pleasant weather and vibrant festivals.

🎉 Festivals in Hoi An

Full Moon Lantern Festival

Held monthly on the 14th lunar night

Streets go car-free and are illuminated by lanterns

Traditional music, games, and cultural shows

Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

Late January or February

Colorful decorations, lion dances, and fireworks

Mid-Autumn Festival

Usually in September

Paper lantern parades and children’s performances

🏨 Where to Stay in Hoi An

Luxury

Four Seasons The Nam Hai – Beachfront luxury and wellness

Anantara Hoi An Resort – Elegant riverside escape

Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort – Spa-focused with yoga and detox options

Mid-Range

Little Riverside Hoi An – Boutique hotel with great views

La Siesta Hoi An Resort – Pools, gardens, and value for money

Hoi An Ancient House Resort – Traditional setting with modern comfort

Budget

Tribee Bana Hostel – Great social vibe for backpackers

Hoa Binh Hostel – Centrally located and affordable

Under the Coconut Tree – Cozy beachside bungalows

💡 Travel Tips for Hoi An

Buy the Old Town ticket – It supports preservation and gives access to 5 attractions

Dress modestly when visiting temples

Carry cash – Many shops prefer cash over cards

Ride a bike – Best way to explore beyond the Old Town

Plan tailoring early – Fittings may take a couple of days

🌍 Sustainable Travel in Hoi An

Support local artisans and sustainable fashion

Avoid single-use plastics, especially near rivers

Book eco-conscious tours (e.g., bicycle, bamboo boat, or farming experiences)

🏁 Final Thoughts

Hoi An is a rare gem that beautifully preserves the past while embracing modern charm. From glowing lanterns and ancient temples to tailor shops and white-sand beaches, Hoi An is a dream destination for anyone seeking culture, beauty, and authenticity.

Whether you come for a romantic getaway, a culinary journey, or a peaceful escape, Hoi An will leave you enchanted—and longing to return.