Hoi An

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
15/08/2025
Charming street scene in Hoi An, Vietnam, with vibrant lanterns and traditional architecture.
Sachith Ravishka Kodikara, Pexels

Hoi An is a historically rich destination centered around its Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets. Beyond the historical charm, it offers easy access to beautiful beaches and a variety of cultural experiences.

For those looking to socialize, An Hoi Islet, often referred to as Hoi An's "beer street," provides a lively evening atmosphere with bars and the bustling Night Market. An Bang Beach is also a popular spot, with numerous beach bars and cafes that create a vibrant social scene, especially during the day and early evenings. Many hostels in Hoi An cater to travelers seeking social interaction, offering communal dinners and organized events.

Top 8 Things to do in Hoi An

Visitors to Hoi An can immerse themselves in historical exploration, participate in local craft workshops, enjoy culinary experiences, relax on nearby beaches, and indulge in tailored fashion.

1. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town is a fundamental experience. Its narrow, lantern-lit streets are lined with historic buildings, ancient houses, and assembly halls, showcasing a blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and French architectural influences. One can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, discover hidden cafes, browse artisan shops, and witness traditional performances. It is particularly enchanting in the evening when thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate the area, creating a magical ambiance along the Thu Bon River.

Cost: An entrance fee of 120,000 VND (approximately $5 USD) per person for foreign visitors over 15 years old grants access to the Old Town and allows entry to five specific historical sites or attractions, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fukian Assembly Hall, or an ancient house. Many areas, including the streets themselves, can be explored without a ticket.

Transport: The Ancient Town is primarily a pedestrian area. Many accommodations are within walking distance. Bicycles can be rented for around 30,000-40,000 VND per day (approximately $1.20-$1.60 USD) for exploring the town and surrounding areas.

2. Attend a Lantern Making Class

Participating in a lantern making class offers a hands-on cultural experience, allowing one to learn about a tradition spanning over 400 years in the 'city of lanterns.' Under the guidance of skilled artisans, visitors can select a frame, choose fabrics and colors, apply the material, and decorate their own foldable lantern to take home as a unique souvenir. It is a creative and engaging activity.

Cost: Class prices vary. An express class can cost around 250,000 VND (approximately $10 USD), while a full class, which might include painting, ranges from 380,000 VND to 400,000 VND (approximately $15-$16 USD).

Transport: Many lantern workshops are located within or near the Ancient Town and are typically within walking distance. Some tours may offer transfers.

3. Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class

Engaging in a cooking class is an excellent way to delve into Vietnam's renowned culinary scene. Classes often begin with a visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on instruction in preparing traditional Vietnamese dishes. Some classes also include a basket boat ride as part of the experience, combining cooking with a scenic tour of the coconut forest. It is a delicious and interactive way to learn about local flavors.

Cost: A cooking class can range from 35 USD to 550,000 VND (approximately $14-$23 USD) per person, often including market visits and meals.

Transport: Many cooking schools offer free private car pick-up and drop-off from Hoi An center. Otherwise, they are often a short bike or taxi ride away.

4. Experience a Basket Boat Tour at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

A basket boat tour in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest offers a unique and entertaining experience. Gliding through the waterways in a traditional round basket boat, visitors can witness local life, enjoy traditional folk songs, and often see impressive basket boat dance performances by local rowers. Some tours also include opportunities for traditional net fishing. It's a fun and scenic outing providing a glimpse into the rural countryside.

Cost: A basket boat tour typically costs around 90,000-122,000 VND (approximately $3.50-$5 USD) per person. Prices may vary slightly based on inclusions (e.g., drinks, entrance fee to the forest).

Transport: The Cam Thanh Coconut Forest is about 15 minutes drive from Hoi An downtown. Motorbikes can be rented for 120,000-180,000 VND per day (approximately $4.70-$7.10 USD). Taxis are also readily available.

5. Relax at An Bang Beach

Just a short distance from the Ancient Town, An Bang Beach provides a tranquil escape with its pristine sands, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding. For those seeking more activity, water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing are often available. The beach also features numerous beachfront restaurants and cafes where one can enjoy fresh seafood and drinks.

Cost: Access to the beach is generally free. Sun loungers can be rented for 15,000-40,000 VND (approximately $0.60-$1.60 USD), with some places offering free use if you dine there. Water sports activities will have separate costs.

Transport: An Bang Beach is approximately 5 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town. Visitors can easily rent a bicycle (30,000-40,000 VND/day; approximately $1.20-$1.60 USD) for a 15-20 minute ride, or take a taxi.

6. Get Custom Tailored Clothing

Hoi An is renowned for its skilled tailors, offering the unique opportunity to have custom-made clothing at affordable prices with a quick turnaround. From suits and dresses to traditional Ao Dai, visitors can choose from a wide array of fabrics and designs. The process typically involves an initial consultation, measurements, and one or two fittings to ensure a perfect fit. It is an ideal way to acquire personalized, high-quality garments.

Cost: Prices vary widely depending on the garment, fabric, and tailor. Suits can range from $50-$500 USD. More budget-friendly options exist, as do high-end tailors.

Transport: Tailor shops are predominantly located within the Ancient Town and are easily accessible by walking or a short bike ride.

7. Discover Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Hoi An's coffee culture is a significant part of its local charm, blending traditional Vietnamese brewing methods with modern specialty trends. One can spend time in quaint cafes, enjoying iconic Vietnamese coffee styles like the strong Phin filter coffee or creamy Hanoi egg coffee. Some workshops offer insights into the coffee-making process from bean to cup, allowing participants to learn and taste different styles.

Cost: Coffee prices are generally affordable. A coffee-making workshop can cost around $14-$15 USD.

Transport: Coffee shops and workshops are primarily located within the Ancient Town, easily accessible on foot.

8. Indulge in a Spa and Massage Session

After days of exploration, a spa or massage session offers a rejuvenating experience. Hoi An boasts numerous spas providing a variety of treatments, from traditional Vietnamese massages to hot stone therapy and body scrubs. These sessions offer a peaceful respite, allowing visitors to relax and unwind amidst a tranquil ambiance.

Cost: Full body massages typically range from 400,000 VND to 1,800,000 VND (approximately $16.60-$75 USD), depending on the spa's reputation, duration, and type of service.

Transport: Many spas are located within or a short distance from the Ancient Town, accessible by walking, bicycle, or a brief taxi ride. Some premium spas may offer pick-up services.

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