Things To Do
in Hội An
Hội An is a charming ancient town located on the central coast of Vietnam. It is known for its well-preserved architecture, reflecting a blend of indigenous and foreign influences. Visitors can wander through narrow streets lined with vibrant lanterns, explore historic temples and pagodas, and enjoy delicious local cuisine.
Hội An is also famous for its tailors and cobblers offering custom-made clothing and shoes.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the UNESCO Heritage site of Hội An's Ancient Town. Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Bridge and visiting artisan shops.
Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery, sampling Cao Lầu. Then, visit the vibrant local markets for unique souvenirs.
As night falls, stroll along the lantern-lit streets. Consider dining at a riverside restaurant to experience the magical ambiance.
Rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque rice paddies and small villages. Stop at the Tra Que Vegetable Village to learn about organic farming.
After a refreshing ride, have lunch at a local homestay featuring dishes made from fresh ingredients. Continue your exploration by visiting nearby water coconut forests.
Return to Hội An and try your hand at a cooking class in the evening. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a self-prepared dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Well-preserved ancient architecture
- Delicious local cuisine
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Beautiful scenic landscapes and rivers
- Unique shopping experience with local handicrafts
- Access to nearby beaches
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Increased commercialization affecting local charm
- Limited nightlife options
- High humidity and potential for rain in summer
- Transportation can be challenging in the old town
- Higher prices compared to other regions in Vietnam
- Potential for over-tourism impacting the environment
Best Activities in Hội An
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the quaint streets and scenic countryside by renting a bicycle and cycling around Hội An.
Enjoy kayaking along the serene Thu Bồn River and explore the waterways surrounding Hội An.
Embark on a hiking adventure to the Marble Mountains or explore the surrounding countryside for picturesque trails.
Unwind at the beautiful An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, known for their soft sands and tranquil atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hội An with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hội An
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning historic architecture and lantern-lit streets for picturesque photos.
Beautiful beach with a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for scenic shots and sunset views.
Quaint and scenic locale offering great photo opportunities of traditional Vietnamese agriculture.
Iconic 17th-century bridge with intricate designs, providing a unique photo backdrop in the heart of the old town.
Several establishments offering panoramic views of Hoi An and the Thu Bon River, perfect for capturing the city's beauty from above.
Food in Hội An
Hội An Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Hội An dish featuring chewy noodles, tender pork, fresh herbs, and a savory sauce. Look for it at Ba Be's stall in the Hội An Central Market.
Must-Try!
This legendary bánh mì shop serves up delicious sandwiches with a variety of fillings, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite. Find it at 2B Phan Châu Trinh Street.
Try these delicate, translucent dumplings filled with shrimp or pork at the iconic White Rose Restaurant located at 533 Hai Bà Trưng Street.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hội An better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to indulge in local delicacies like fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and various street food stalls. Don't miss the Cao Lầu and Mi Quang stalls!
In the evening, head to this market for an array of street food options, from grilled seafood skewers to sweet desserts like bánh bao (steamed buns).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hội An, it is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect for the local culture and customs.
It’s considered polite to take off your shoes before entering a Vietnamese person’s home as a sign of respect for their living space.
When meeting someone in Hội An, a slight bow and a warm smile are appreciated as a sign of politeness and friendliness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hội An with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hội An
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Hội An, Vietnam. It is not expected at restaurants, hotels, or for taxi rides. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
In Hội An, Vietnam, cash is the primary form of payment. Many places may not accept credit cards, so it's advisable to carry cash when visiting. Some hotels and higher-end restaurants may accept credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hội An.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with warm weather, clear skies, and the city is adorned with lanterns and flowers for the Tet Festival.
Expect hot and humid weather, with occasional rain showers. The beaches are popular during this time.
Mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the town and nearby countryside.
Cool and occasionally wet weather. Hội An's Old Town looks enchanting during the holiday season.
Hội An at Night
Hiking in Hội An
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A cluster of five marble and limestone hills featuring caves, tunnels, and panoramic views of the surrounding areas, located about 20km from Hội An.
A French-colonial hill station with scenic views, hiking trails, and the famous Golden Bridge, situated around 30km from Hội An.
An ancient Hindu temple complex surrounded by lush greenery, providing hiking opportunities through historical ruins located approximately 40 km from Hội An.
A network of trails through the rice fields, rivers, and countryside around Hội An, perfect for both hiking and exploring local culture.
A small village located about 3km from Hội An, offering scenic walking paths through farms and fields where visitors can learn about organic farming.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hội An through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hội An by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Hội An, it is the closest major international airport, providing various domestic and international flights.
Located about 90 kilometers from Hội An, this airport serves domestic flights and some international flights, mainly to destinations in Asia.
Situated around 120 kilometers from H ội An, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, primarily to beach destinations in Vietnam.
Located approximately 960 kilometers from Hội An, it is the largest airport in Vietnam, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, accounting for a significant portion of the population in Hội An.
The Chinese community in Hội An, known for their distinct cultural contributions and businesses.
Include various indigenous groups located in and around the Hội An region, adding to the area's cultural diversity.
Includes individuals from various countries who come to live or work in Hội An, contributing to the demographic richness.
While not a permanent demographic group, tourists significantly influence the local economy and culture in Hội An.
The Soul of Hội An
Discover the essence of Hội An through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely popular in Hội An, with many local teams and community leagues engaging residents in both playing and watching matches.
Basketball is growing in popularity, especially among younger generations, with schools and local courts facilitating the sport.
Traditional Vietnamese martial arts, particularly Vovinam, are practiced in Hội An, showcasing the local culture and promoting physical fitness.
Cycling is a favored activity in Hội An, with picturesque routes and a bike-friendly atmosphere encouraging locals and tourists alike to explore the area.
With its proximity to beaches, swimming is a popular recreational activity for residents and visitors, especially in coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hội An.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like fresh spring rolls, stir-fried morning glory, and tofu-based specialties.
While gluten-free options are not as prevalent, some restaurants do cater to this need. Phở (noodle soup) made with rice noodles is a good gluten-free choice.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hội An with these cultural adventures.
