Hoi An, Vietnam: The Complete 2025 Guide to Sights, Weather & More!
According to a trustworthy website called Travel Off Path, an American travel platform that addresses travel-related issues, Hoi An has been ranked among the top seven greatest destinations in the world for 2025. The streets of Vietnam are filled with people who praise the beauty of Hoi An, particularly its captivating Old Town, which seamlessly blends various cultural elements, some dating back to the French colonial era. For a long time, it has remained a must-visit on tourists’ bucket lists, thanks to its exceptional wonders. Why does Hoi An enjoy such global fame? What can be done during an internship there? With the help of locals, let’s explore this remarkable destination in Vietnam today.
Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)
Updated on Jun 14, 2025
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Nhu PHAM is a Saigon native with a passion for travel, adventure, the French and English language, and making discoveries as a digital nomad. She has already explored many Southeast Asian countries, including Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand. Originally from the South, she has a particular expertise in the South and the Mekong Delta. Currently based in Hanoi, she works for Kampá Tour and is the author of many highly appreciated articles on this blog. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them at the bottom of her articles so that she can answer you directly.
Hoi An is located in central Vietnam, and it's pretty easy to get to. It's about a 45-minute drive south of Da Nang, which is the main city in that central region. You can also get there from Hue, the former imperial capital, though that's a bit longer, about a 3-hour drive south.
What's cool about Hoi An is how it blends with nature. You might be surprised to know that just 3 kilometers from the historic town center, there are beautiful white sandy beaches and the clear blue waters of what's often called the South China Sea.
And right in the heart of town, located downstream from the Thu Bon River, you'll find charming winding canals everywhere. It all comes together to give Hoi An a really unique and picturesque feel, totally in harmony with its natural surroundings.
Hoi An is located in the center of Vietnam
>>> Good to know:
Hoi An, formerly Faifo in English, was a vibrant port from the 15th to the 19th century, attracting merchants from all over the world for the trade of ceramics, silk, etc. Today, Hoi An preserves its traditional Asian charm and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich history and architectural beauty.
The charming atmosphere in Hoi An Ancient Town
What You Need to Know Before You Go?
Start with these 4 essential points to avoid common tourist mistakes and plan your trip easily.
Plan at least 2 days in Hoi An
Many visitors think Hoi An is just its charming Old Town, but it really offers so much more, like beautiful beaches and idyllic villages. While you can see the Old Town in one day if you're rushed, to truly enjoy everything Hoi An has, plan for at least two days and one night, ideally three days.
Stay in the center of Hoi An (around the old quarters)
For your stay in Hoi An, it's generally best to pick a spot either near the Old Town (Minh An) for easy access, or by the beaches if you're looking to relax. Definitely check hotel locations on apps like Booking, Agoda, or Tripadvisor to avoid long taxi rides to all the key spots.
Color "mustard yellow" - typical color of Hoi An
Check the weather for a beach holiday
The best time for a beach holiday is usually between mid-April and mid-August, with a pleasant climate. From September to December, there is the rain and rough seas that make stays at seaside less ideal. In any case, other types of visits, especially in the old quarters, remain possible during this period.
So, let's see now the must-sees of Hoi An.
Things to do in Hoi An? Top 15 essential activities
1. Stroll Through the Heart of the Old Town
Hoi An's Old Town is really something special. Even though it's pretty small (under 0.77 square miles or 2 square kilometers), its narrow, winding streets, all lined with cool old houses and those super colorful lanterns, are just perfect for a relaxed walk. You can even rent a bike if you want to explore that unique vibe, with lanterns lighting up everything from historic homes to ancient pagodas.
Hoi An's special feature is its iconic yellow houses
and bright bougainvillea that adorn the facades
After the sun goes down, Hoi An really transforms. The streets light up with all those bright lanterns, creating a genuinely charming atmosphere. And definitely don't miss the sunset along the Hoai River. It's a truly beautiful sight! Taking a boat trip or simply strolling along the docks are wonderful ways to enjoy those romantic moments.
At nightfall, Hoi An is transformed into a magical place...
2. Discover the Iconic Old Houses of Hoi An
The Old Town of Hoi An is marked by yellow-colored houses that remind one of its histories with foreign merchants. Besides, it was further adorned with many Chinese communal houses and areas used for available social, commercial, and cultural activities.
Some of the really ancient houses in Hoi An are worth seeing, such as the Tan Ky Old House, a private mansion dating from 1741, full of antiques with a great cultural and artistic value. And that's not it! The other old houses of the city, such as Phung Hung, Quan Thang, or Duc An, are also worth visiting.
Tan Ky Ancient House (Address: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An Old Town)
These architectural marvels are all easily located in the Old Town, giving any visitor a real glimpse of Vietnamese life as it was almost 200 years ago.
3. Visit Chua Cau, one of the iconic symbols of Hoi An town
Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Bridge, was built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants. This famous bridge is distinguished by its unique architecture, harmoniously blending Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese elements. Built of wood and stone, it stretches majestically above a tributary of the Thu Bon River. Its beautifully carved lacquer roof decorated with wood and stone carvings adds to its striking charm.
Interesting to note, the image of this bridge even appears on the back of the Vietnamese 20,000 VND note, testifying to its symbolic importance for the country.
The image of the Japanese bridge is on the back of the 20,000 VND note from Vietnam
4. Experience the captivating art activities in Hoi An ancient town
Are you fascinated by traditional art objects and antique Asian colors? Then, the traditional mask-making activity in Hoi An is an experience you can't miss! Discover the ancient art of mask-making and create your own colorful masterpiece using techniques passed down through generations. This activity is a unique opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the region while exploring your creativity.
Live this fascinating experience at "The Timing Masks Hoi An" (Address: 66 Bach Dang, Hoi An, Vietnam). You will learn many interesting anecdotes about the masks that characterize "bội" or "tuồng" singing (Vietnamese classical opera) with various nuances and expressions of emotion.
Create your own traditional mask in Hoi An: an unforgettable artistic experience
5. Hoi An Museums
Museums in Hoi An are incredibly captivating as they are located in ancient traditional houses that serve as “museums”. The main aim of these museums is to preserve and exhibit collections of artifacts and documents. The collections represent how Hoi An City was formed and developed, portraying its culture, spirit and people’s lives throughout different historical periods.
There are six thematic museums within the Hoi An museum cluster:
Hoi An Museum (10B Tran Hung Dao Street)
Sa Huynh Culture Museum (149 Tran Phu Street)
Ceramics Museum (80 Tran Phu Street)
Folklore Museum (33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street)
Memorial House of Cao Hong Lanh (129 Tran Phu Street)
Folklore Museum in Hoi An Ancient Town
6. Visit the specialized traditional villages of Hoi An
Once you’ve explored the sights of the ancient city, you can rent a bicycle and ride into the countryside to visit nearby craft or agricultural villages. For instance, you can visit Thanh Ha for its ceramic products, Tra Que for organic herbs and vegetables, and Cam Chau to pick up some lanterns. These charming little towns are situated around 5 km (a 20-minute drive) from Hoi An’s Old Quarter, making them quite convenient to reach. Along the way, you’ll experience the peaceful side of Hoi An, not far from the bustling city center with its vibrant entertainment and restaurants.
If you have a green thumb and are a gourmet, put yourself in the shoes of a Vietnamese gardener
If you have a green thumb and love to cook, you can head to Tra Que village, known for its organically grown crops and herbs. Explore the fields, greet the residents, and participate in the local agrarian cycle, from planting to harvesting, before preparing a Vietnamese dish from scratch using fresh produce.
What to do in Hoi An, Vietnam, if you're a beach enthusiast? This is an excellent day trip from Hoi An for all lovers of pristine sand, translucent waters, and a complete change of scenery. The Cham or Cu Lao Cham islands are located 20km off the coast of the old town of Hoi An. This archipelago consists of a group of 8 small islands that have become one of the 15 national marine reserves and have been recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve.
In this little island paradise, you can enjoy magnificent beaches and exceptional seabed. Scuba diving and discovering the traditional making of hammocks are among the essential activities not to be missed.
The Cham or Cu Lao Cham Islands
8. Relax on Hoi An's Beautiful Beaches
Hoi An is also famous for its beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by palm trees. Cua Dai and An Bang beaches, located just a 30-minute bike ride from Hoi An, are perfect for relaxing and enjoying water sports. From February to September, during the summer season, you can also enjoy its wonderful beaches located just a few kilometers from the city center.
An Bang Beaches, the most beautiful beach in Hoi An
In addition to their natural beauty, the two featured beaches also offer a wide choice of restaurants, whether Vietnamese or international, for visitors who want to eat during their sunny day or for a romantic dinner in front of the sea.
Visiting Hoi An cannot be done without discovering its culinary specialties, an essential aspect of Vietnamese culture! The city is a foodie’s paradise. Hoi An was something of a melting pot when it came to cuisine in particular, with incredible flavors. One of the traditional dishes you absolutely must eat is “cao lau”. The “cao lau” noodle dish is the best example, expressing both this cosmopolitan heritage and the soul of its region. These pastas have a reputation for being unique, made exclusively from ingredients only found in Hoi An and its surrounding areas.
Cao Lau, the culinary treasure of Hoi An
Another dish that is unique to Hoi An and worth trying is Xi Ma, a dessert. Xi Ma, also known as black sesame sweet soup, is a traditional dessert in Hoi An. This unique treat is made from ground black sesame seeds, rice flour, and a hint of Chinese medicine, resulting in a smooth, rich, and mildly sweet flavor. Often enjoyed as a warm and comforting dish, Xi Ma is cherished for its purported health benefits and its role in Hoi An's culinary heritage.
This dessert is often mistaken for being made from bamboo charcoal
In addition to Cao Lau and Xi Ma which is the most typical dish, you should also try Quang noodles, another typical dish from this region of Vietnam. Additionally, Hoi An chicken rice is also a dish you should try.
Besides discovering the unmissable dishes of Hoi An, don't forget to drink MOT herbal tea, a famous drink that can only be found in Hoi An. This local drink, prepared with tea and a unique blend of herbs like lemongrass, lemon and cinnamon, is a taste experience not to be missed. The tea cups are made of paper, the straws are made of bamboo and the drink is decorated with tea leaves and fresh lotus petals, for a pleasant presentation. “Nuoc MOT” (MOT herbal tea) with aromas and flavors found nowhere else in the world.
If you're looking for new flavors, don't miss MOT herbal tea
10. Take part in the cooking class in Hoi An
Hoi An is considered the new gastronomic capital of the country. Visitors can discover different tasty dishes by signing up for a cooking class. Hoi An offers a quality program with sightseeing activities combined with culinary experimentation sessions such as visiting local markets, area villages, excursions and demonstrations of planting and picking ingredients.
Hoi An's typical dishes are healthy, delicious and taken from everyday life. Taking a cooking class is one of the top ten travel experiences in Vietnam according to the Lonely Planet guide, so if you like culinary activities, this is a must-do activity in Hoi An.
The sessions take place in a restaurant in the company of a chef-instructor and a English-speaking guide. Steps include visiting a local market to choose ingredients, cooking traditional Vietnamese dishes with the instructor and active student participation, followed by tasting the prepared foods.
Participants can keep notes and recipes to reproduce the dishes at home later
11. Attend one of the best shows in the world – Hoi An Memories Show
Did you know that in Vietnam, there is a world-renowned show: the Hoi An Memories Show! This open-air theatrical performance has become a phenomenon since its showcase at Times Square in New York in March 2019, gaining international media coverage.
It is performed in a massive open space of 25,000 square meters, accommodating over 3,000 spectators. With 500 actors on stage, the show narrates the history of Hoi An, from its inception to its development as the busiest commercial port in Southeast Asia, over four centuries. Come and discover the harmonious and grandiose scenes, the traditional settings of pagodas and bridges, as well as the aquatic scenes. You will be transported to the golden age of Hoi An and immersed in a living legend of Vietnamese history.
Hoi An Memories Show
12. Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest by Basket Boat in Hoi An
Bay Mau Coconut Forest, just a 10-minute drive from Hoi An Old Town, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. By taking a traditional basket boat, you can explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about local history and culture. The peaceful beauty of the coconut trees and the diverse wildlife of birds and fish will transport you to a world of serenity.
You can also make your own souvenirs from coconut leaves, a local specialty. The Bay Mau coconut forest is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in Vietnamese nature and culture.
Coconut leaf souvenirs
13. Discover the ghost town of An Bang
An Bang, in Hoi An, is famous for housing the most luxurious mausoleum in Vietnam. Although not an official tourist destination, the village attracts many visitors due to its nickname "the city of tombs" or sometimes "ghost town" given by foreign media.
The ghost town of An Bang
The An Bang tombs reflect a remarkable convergence of elements from Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and even Islam. They are notable for their imposing pillars, sophisticated carvings and creative use of broken ceramics as decorative materials.
14. Experience custom tailoring in Hoi An
As you stroll through the streets of Hoi An Old Town, you will be struck by the abundance of fabric and fashion boutiques. But what truly sets Hoi An apart is the presence of tailors in every fashion store. They design and make tailor-made clothing, meeting the needs of customers, particularly foreign tourists. Each boutique houses several tailors and designers, and some even have specialized workshops.
The tailor-made pieces worked by several tailors in Hoi An are internationally recognized
During your visit to Hoi An, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fast-paced tailoring culture. In no time, you can walk away with a stunning made-to-measure garment, crafted to your desires, all at an affordable price. Don't miss this chance to discover the art of tailor-made sewing at your fingertips during your visit to Hoi An.
Don't be sad if you arrive in Hội An and it rains. It is an opportunity to discover a different side of the beauty of this city. Hội An in the rain exudes a calm, romantic and slightly melancholic atmosphere. The ideal activities to do in Hội An when it rains are to enjoy a cup of fragrant Vietnamese coffee or tea in one of the charming cafes in the old town while admiring the rain.
Hội An in the rain exudes a calm, romantic atmosphere
If you are an art lover, this is also an opportunity to take your time and immerse yourself in Vietnamese art by visiting the art galleries in the old town. Hoi An Old Town prides itself on having a variety of art galleries that display exceptional works by renowned artists from across Vietnam. The paintings and photographs presented here reflect the traditional culture of Vietnam, with its lush nature, traditional people and costumes, as well as its villages and iconic sites.
Réhahn Fine Art Galleries (7 Nguyen Hue Street, Hoi An Old Town)
Each art gallery in the heart of Hoi An Old Town offers visitors a unique artistic experience, inviting them to discover and appreciate the diversity and colors of Vietnamese art.
To fully experience these highlights without the hassle of planning, consider our Vietnam comprehensive tours, where every detail is taken care of with your comfort and enjoyment in mind.
When are the best times to visit?
Knowing the Hoi An weather is essential if you want to visit this historic city. The city is located in central Vietnam and is affected by the monsoon season which occurs during the rainy season. The other times of the year the weather is hot and dry.
The dry season runs from January to July
In January till early March every year is the period when climate changes quite favorably for visitors. Therefore there is no need at all to mind climate change as it only affects them positively but between mid-March and July it becomes so hot.
In addition, it is advisable to avoid April 30 and May 1, as it is one of Viet Nam's biggest national holidays (Reunification Day), and all Vietnamese are on vacation and travel during this period.
The rainy season runs from August to December
It changes every year but normally in November, there are heavy rains and flooding in Hoi An, which only lasts for a few days, but not for the whole month. Hoi An appears differently during flood season as its alleys that were once only meant for scooters or walking become canals. Instead of using scooters or bicycles we use boats to move around!
Rainy season in Hoi An
If it rains don’t be disappointed; it’s a time to perceive the city differently. The rain makes it more alluring because of its soothing depressive romantic ambiance. This is an opportunity to have Vietnamese coffee or tea at an antique café within the old town while watching the rain fall down.
Every 14th of the lunar month, the old town becomes pedestrianized and vibrates to the rhythm of traditional games and the release of lanterns. A bewitching time to discover local customs and interact with the locals.
If you want to get away from the flow of tourists, stay in Hoi An in the low season and avoid the months of March and April.
Releasing lanterns is a popular activity for many tourists when visiting Hoi An
Our Recommended Travel Routes to Explore Hoi An
Itinerary 1: Heritage and Traditions in Hoi An
Day 1: Discover the Charms of Hoi An
Morning: Kick off your Hoi An itinerary with a guided bike tour through the Old Quarter, a must-do to experience Hoi An's rich culture and local crafts.
Gourmet Break: Delight in authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a café renowned for its coffee and tea, capturing the essence of Vietnamese culture.
Afternoon: Venture into the surrounding villages where you can immerse yourself in the daily life and traditional practices that define Vietnamese culture.
Evening: Conclude your day with a serene boat trip on the Thu Bon River, a perfect reflection of Hoi An's peaceful ambiance.
Spend a relaxing day at the pristine Hoi An beaches, ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy the scenic views that Vietnam travel offers.
Day 3: Cultural Expedition to Hue
The journey to the city of Huế is feasible and offers a different perspective, as it is an ancient city rich in imperial monuments. With its imperial city, royal tombs, and palaces, the impression of returning to past centuries is striking. The trip from Hoi An to Huế takes about 3 hours.
The Art of Lantern Making in Cam Chau Village
Itinerary 2: Countryside and Crafts Around Hoi An
Day 1: Engage with Local Traditions
Morning: Explore Van Lang village and the iconic coconut forests in a traditional basket boat, reflecting the unique aspects of Hoi An things to do.
Afternoon: Visit Tra Que village, a short journey from Hoi An, where you can participate in organic farming—a hands-on experience of Vietnamese culture.
Evening: Return to Hoi An’s Old Quarter, where the nightlife buzzes with culture and history.
Day 2: Beach Day in Hoi An
Like the previous itinerary, enjoy the tranquility of Hoi An beaches, a highlight for anyone’s Vietnam travel itinerary.
Day 3: Explore Ancient and Nearby Attractions
Visit the My Son Sanctuary, an essential part of any Hoi An itinerary for those interested in historical sites and ancient civilizations. This site offers a deep dive into the spiritual heritage of the region, akin to Cambodia's Angkor temples but uniquely Vietnamese.
The distance between Hanoi and Hoi An is about 740 km, which will take up to 13 hours to drive from Hanoi to Hoi An. The distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An is approximately 950 km; a drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An takes nearly 15 hours. The duration may vary based on the transport mode.
However, we do not advise you to go to Hoi An from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City because the journey is quite long and can become tiring.
By plane
Flying from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) or Hanoi is the quickest option. The journey takes only 1 hour to Danang Airport. Hoi An is 30 km from the latter, you can take a car, bus, or shuttle to get to Hoi An.
If you arrive at Danang Airport, the best way to get to Hoi An is to take a car. However, be careful with taxis, as they can inflate prices and charge high tips. We therefore recommend that you rent a car directly from Danang Airport. You can obtain information from your travel agency or hotel. Alternatively, you can also look for shuttle buses to go to Hoi An.
By train
Many trains depart from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Danang. Then, to reach Hoi An, you will need to take a bus or taxi. The train journey can take several hours, but it offers a unique experience, especially if you opt for an overnight cabin. This will also save you a night in a hotel. Although the speed is slow, the train ride offers the opportunity to admire the beauty of the Vietnamese countryside, with its rice fields and green mountains.
To buy a train ticket online in Vietnam, it is recommended to visit the official website of Vietnam Railways at https://dsvn.vn/
By bus
An interesting option for travelers on a budget is to take the night sleeper bus. There are sleeper buses that connect Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, however, this option is very long-lasting and it is important to note that it does not offer more safety in terms of traffic than the other options mentioned above.
The journey to Hoi An is one of the most beautiful train journeys in Vietnam
In Hoi An, you have a wide range of accommodation options, from budget choices to luxury accommodations. It is crucial to choose carefully to ensure a pleasant experience during your visit. To do this, consult reputable hotel reservation sites such as Booking, Agoda, etc. Don't forget to take into account the opinions of other travelers regarding the establishment that interests you, and do not hesitate to directly contact the hotel of your choice to ensure all the details.
Among all the options available, we have selected three hotels particularly appreciated by our travelers:
La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa:
Address: 132 Hung Vuong, Thanh Ha, Hoi An, Vietnam
Just a 10-minute walk from the center of Hoi An Old Town, La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa offers an oasis of natural beauty. Nestled in a lush tropical garden, this resort is an ideal hideaway to escape from the chaos of life and find peace in absolute privacy. With its harmonious marriage of modern architecture and traditional Vietnamese charm, the 137 rooms offer an elegant resort experience in the heart of nature. Additionally, the resort offers 4 swimming pools for cooling off and relaxing.
La Siesta Hoi An
Little Hoi An:
Address: 02 Thoai Ngoc Hau, Hoi An
Little Hoi An is a boutique hotel located in the center of Hoi An Town. This hotel offers an authentic ambiance with an inspiring history of Faifo Town, which has stood the test of time. The design of the hotel is rustic and charming, reflecting the ancient town of Hoi An.
Little Hoi An
Hoi An Boutique Resort:
Address: 34 Lac Long Quan, Cam Chau, Hoi An
Boutique Hoi An Resort is a haven of peace and relaxation nestled on a sandy beach by the sea. The spacious villas offer stunning ocean views, while the large private terraces are the ideal place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The lush tropical gardens surrounding the swimming pool invite relaxation and contemplation. If you are a sea lover, Boutique Hoi An Resort is the ideal place for you.
Releasing lanterns is a popular activity for many tourists when visiting Hoi An
Exploring Hoi An promises an immersive adventure. The alleys illuminated by lanterns and historic houses transport you to a culturally rich past. Whether you aspire to delve into history, savor the local cuisine, or relax on the beaches, Hoi An offers a varied and captivating experience. We hope this comprehensive guide will help you prepare for an in-depth exploration of this world heritage - Hoi An. Enjoy every moment to the fullest and let yourself be immersed in the timeless beauty of this unique destination!
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