Hoi An Travel Guide: The Ancient Town & Beyond
Discover Hoi An Ancient Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its lantern-lit streets, legendary tailor shops, and incredible food scene.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most beloved destinations — a beautifully preserved 15th-century trading port with colourful lanterns, ancient merchant houses, and a food scene that has made it famous worldwide.
Top Attractions in Hoi An
🌉 Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau) — The most iconic symbol of Hoi An, built by Japanese merchants in the 16th century.
🏠 Ancient Merchant Houses — Tan Ky House, Phung Hung House, and Duc An House offer glimpses into Hoi An's multicultural trading past.
⛩️ Fujian Chinese Assembly Hall — Beautifully decorated with colourful ceramic art, built by Chinese immigrant communities.
🏖️ An Bang Beach — A relaxed beach just 5 km from the Ancient Town, lined with cafes and sunbeds.
🌾 Tra Que Vegetable Village — Cycle through organic gardens and join a cooking class using fresh produce.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
On the 14th day of each lunar month (full moon), Hoi An holds its famous Lantern Festival. Electric lights are turned off and hundreds of colourful silk lanterns light up the streets and river.
🕯️ Buy a paper lantern, make a wish, and release it onto the Thu Bon River.
📌 The festival draws large crowds — arrive early in the evening for the best spots along the riverside.
Best Food in Hoi An
🍜 Cao Lau — Hoi An's signature noodle dish made with thick rice noodles, char siu pork, and crispy croutons. Only authentic when made with water from local Cham wells.
🥟 White Rose Dumplings — Delicate translucent rice dumplings filled with shrimp, a Hoi An specialty.
🥖 Banh Mi Phuong — Voted one of the world's best banh mi by Anthony Bourdain. Expect a queue.
🫕 Com Ga — Simple but incredibly flavourful shredded chicken over turmeric rice with fresh herbs.
Frequently asked about Destination Guide
Quick answers to help you plan with confidence.
Most first-time visitors spend 10–14 days covering the highlights: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An/Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City with a Mekong day trip. With 3 weeks you can add Sapa, Hue, or Phu Quoc without rushing.
Either works. Many travelers fly into Hanoi and journey south by train or domestic flights, finishing in Ho Chi Minh City (or reverse). Match the direction to your international arrival city and preferred climate.
Hanoi Old Quarter, Halong Bay (overnight cruise), Hoi An Ancient Town, and Ho Chi Minh City with the Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta are the classic “greatest hits.” Ninh Binh and Sapa are excellent add-ons if you have time.
Yes. Vietnam is generally considered one of the safer destinations in the region for solo travellers, including solo women. Use common sense in busy cities (watch for bag snatching) and book well-reviewed transport and accommodations.
Popular overnight cruises (Halong/Lan Ha) and peak-season hotels should be booked ahead. City sightseeing, food tours, and many day trips can often be arranged a day or two in advance through a local operator or your hotel.
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