Things To Do
in Hội An
Hội An sits along the Thu Bon River in central Vietnam, blending history with a tranquil riverside atmosphere. Its Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for preserved merchant houses, bridges, and pagodas, all lit by a mosaic of lanterns at night. The city is famously walkable, with narrow lanes, riverside cafes, and craft shops lining every corner.
Surrounding countryside offers beaches, rice paddies, and traditional crafts that make Hội An a gentle, immersive travel experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Hội An and check in to your charming accommodation. Stroll around the Historic Old Town, taking in the well-preserved architecture and vibrant colors. Grab your first taste of local cuisine at a nearby café, maybe sampling a bowl of Cao Lau noodles.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic historical site that symbolizes the city's cultural heritage. Explore some of the quaint artisan shops and galleries where you can find traditional pottery and silk products. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant while watching boats drift lazily by.
As the sun sets, the Old Town transforms with colorful lanterns lighting up the streets. Participate in a local cooking class where you can learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes. Wind down with a riverside stroll, soaking in the atmosphere of one of Vietnam’s most enchanting cities.
Start your day with a visit to the Hội An Museum to learn about the city's rich history and diverse influences. Then, take a guided walking tour of the Old Town, stopping at historical sites including the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. Enjoy a coffee break at a local café and watch the world go by.
Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling Central Market, where you can sample exotic fruits and local delicacies. Engage with local vendors and practice your bargaining skills as you shop for souvenirs. Take a break to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at one of the market’s many stalls.
Attend a traditional Vietnamese performance that showcases cultural dances and music. Savor a delicious dinner at a popular local restaurant, trying dishes like Banh Mi or fresh spring rolls. End your night by wandering through the lantern-lit streets, soaking up the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Cheap local meal | $3-7 |
| 🥪Street snack or take-away | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or crafts | $5-20 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental (per day) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a well-preserved old town
- Walkable streets, scenic riverside, and welcoming locals
- Excellent central Vietnamese cuisine and fresh seafood
- Relaxed pace, beautiful beaches nearby, and cultural experiences
- Touristy areas can feel crowded, especially around peak season
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be hot and humid; typhoon season affects some itineraries
- Some sites require boat or long walks to fully experience
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tôi không ăn thịt" - I do not eat meat
- "Tôi ăn chay" - I am vegetarian
- "Địa chỉ là gì?" - What is the address?
Places to Visit in Hội An
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic timber bridge framed by colorful lanterns, best during early morning or golden hour with reflections on the nearby canal.
Lantern-lit streets along the Thu Bon River create a magical, photogenic atmosphere after sunset.
A richly decorated temple with intricate woodwork and symbolism; a strong subject for architectural photography.
Rural fields, herbs, and village life provide authentic backdrops for candid and landscape shots.
Wide sandy beaches with soft light and morning activity, ideal for seascapes and silhouettes.
Food in Hội An
Hội An Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick, chewy rice noodles with pork, greens, and crisp croutons, made with water and lye from a traditional local source for a unique texture.
Must-Try!
Turmeric-yellow noodles topped with pork, shrimp, peanuts, herbs, and a small amount of broth, delivering a rich, aromatic bite.
Delicate shrimp-filled dumplings with a translucent wrapper, steamed and served with a light dip.
Fragrant, simply prepared chicken with rice, often accompanied by pickles and broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, seafood, and prepared snacks; a great place to sample regional bites and shop for local ingredients.
A riverside market along the Hoai River offering lanterns, crafts, and street foods that glow after sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites; remove hats and shoes in some temples; speak softly and avoid loud behavior near religious sites.
Treat historic buildings with care, avoid climbing on fragile structures, and bargain politely at markets.
Safety
Tipping in Hội An
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In nicer restaurants or for good service, a small tip (5–10%) is common if a service charge is not included.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely preferred; many mid-range to high-end spots accept cards. Some cafes and shops accept mobile wallets and US dollars in tourist areas; always carry small denominations for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with high humidity; dry days are common, but expect occasional brief showers. Early mornings and evenings are pleasant for outdoor exploring; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Periods of heavy rain and occasional storms; plan indoor activities or flexible itineraries and be prepared for localized flooding in some lower-lying streets.
Milder temperatures with cooler evenings; comfortable for walking and sightseeing, though rain can occur. Pack a light jacket for cooler nights.
Hội An at Night
Hiking in Hội An
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive from Da Nang with limestone caves, pagodas, and stairs leading to viewpoints; suitable for a moderate hike and panoramic photography.
Nature walks and coastal trails on nearby Cham Islands; combine with snorkeling or diving for a multi-activity day.
Airports
How to reach Hội An by plane.
Primary international and domestic airport serving Hội An; about 30–45 minutes by car from the town center.
Smaller airport in Quảng Nam Province; longer transfer to Hội An but serves some regional routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Vietnamese communities with strong traditional crafts, family businesses, and agriculture roots.
A growing mix of instructors, digital nomads, and retirees attracted by the town’s pace and heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across the region; local parks and schools host informal matches.
Popular at community centers and hotels; casual courts available for visitors.
A common mode of transport and leisure activity around villages and coastal paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hội An.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based dishes such as vegetable-centered Mi Quang variations, tofu options in soups, and fresh salads; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp-based broths, and look for vegetarian restaurants or veggie-friendly menus.