Finding fun and interesting things to do in Hoi An, a lovely and charming city in central Vietnam, is not hard to do.
The city will transport you back in time with its well-preserved historical architecture and serene ambiance.
Nestled on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this ancient port town was once a bustling trading hub between the 15th and 19th centuries, attracting merchants from across Asia and Europe.
Today, Hoi An is a popular destination for tourists seeking a blend of culture, cuisine, and relaxation. Let’s look at some of the best things to do in Hoi An.
Take a Peaceful Stroll Through the Old Town
Taking a nice stroll in Hoi An is especially nice in the evenings, when the city is lit up.
The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture. You can spend hours strolling through the narrow alleys, admiring the colorful lanterns and intricate wooden shopfronts.
Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, which dates back to the 18th century and is adorned with intricate carvings.
Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, which dates back to the 18th century and is adorned with intricate carvings.
Hoi An’s Old Town is a pedestrian zone, which means no cars are allowed in the streets, making it a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of other Vietnamese cities. It’s the perfect place to wander around, soak up the atmosphere, and take in the sights and sounds.
Check Out Hoi An’s Fascinating Gift Shops
Hoi An has many unique and interesting gift shops for you to enjoy.
As you wander the streets of Hoi An, it’s hard not to be drawn into the city’s many gift shops.
From delicate silk lanterns to hand-crafted ceramics, there’s a treasure trove of unique souvenirs to be found here. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to shop in this charming city.
One of the most popular gift shops in Hoi An is Tan Tan, located in the heart of the Old Town. Here you’ll find a wide selection of traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, including lacquerware, silk scarves, and embroidered textiles.
The shop is known for its high-quality products and friendly service, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great place to stock up on souvenirs.
If you’re looking for gifts for foodies, head to one of Hoi An’s many spice shops. Here you’ll find a variety of herbs and spices, as well as pre-packaged spice blends that make great gifts.
For something truly unique, head to the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum, which showcases the work of renowned photographer Réhahn. The gallery features a stunning collection of photographs that capture the beauty and diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, as well as a selection of handcrafted items made by these communities.
It’s a great place to pick up a one-of-a-kind piece that supports local artisans.
If you’re looking for gifts for foodies, head to one of Hoi An’s many spice shops. Here you’ll find a variety of herbs and spices, as well as pre-packaged spice blends that make great gifts. One popular shop is Van Loi, which has been selling spices for over 200 years.
You can find everything from cinnamon to saffron here, and the knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect blend for your needs.
If you’re looking for a sustainable and socially responsible gift, head to Reaching Out. This non-profit shop sells a variety of handcrafted items made by people with disabilities, providing them with meaningful employment and support.
Of course, no visit to Hoi An would be complete without a trip to one of the city’s lantern shops. Lanterns are a traditional craft in Hoi An, and the city is known for its vibrant silk lanterns that light up the streets at night.
One popular shop is the Hoi An Lantern Shop, where you can find lanterns in a variety of shapes and sizes, from miniature versions to giant outdoor lanterns.
If you’re looking for a sustainable and socially responsible gift, head to Reaching Out. This non-profit shop sells a variety of handcrafted items made by people with disabilities, providing them with meaningful employment and support.
The products are high-quality and unique, and the shop has a welcoming atmosphere that reflects its mission.
Explore the Area by Bicycle
One of the most fun things to do can be taking a bicycle tour in and around the city. Photo courtesy Dương Nhân.
One of the best things to do in Hoi An is to take a bike ride through the city and the surrounding countryside. With its flat terrain and network of quiet roads and paths, cycling is a popular and convenient mode of transportation in this charming city.
Bicycling is likewise a great way to get off the beaten path and see the more rural side of Vietnam. You can cycle through rice paddies, along rivers, and through quaint villages, getting a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this part of the country.
Some bike tours also include a visit to a local market where you can see the fresh produce and seafood that are staples of Vietnamese cuisine.
As you pedal through the streets, you’ll be able to take in the sights and sounds of Hoi An up close, and discover hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.
Take a Traditional Vietnamese Cooking Class
Another great way to experience Hoi An is to take a cooking class. Vietnamese food is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, and a cooking class is a great way to learn how to make some of the classic dishes yourself.
One of the most popular cooking schools in Hoi An is the Red Bridge Cooking School, which offers a half-day course that includes a visit to the market to pick out fresh ingredients and a boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
With the guidance of experienced chefs, you’ll be able to prepare and cook your own Vietnamese dishes, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich food culture.
So put on your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Learn to Make Your Own Lanterns
It can be a lot of fun learning to make lanterns in Hoi An.
Imagine walking through the streets of Hoi An, Vietnam, surrounded by the soft glow of lanterns hanging from the buildings. You too can learn how to make these beautiful lanterns and bring a little piece of Hoi An home with you.
The lantern making process in Hoi An is a traditional craft that has been passed down for generations. You can find many shops and classes throughout the town that offer the chance to learn this skill. The process is not difficult, but it does require patience and attention to detail.
Silk is the most commonly used material, but you can also use other fabrics like cotton or paper. You will also decorate your lantern with colorful designs and patterns. This is where you can get creative and make your lantern unique. You can use paint, markers, or even fabric scraps to create your design.
The lantern making process in Hoi An is a traditional craft that has been passed down for generations. You can find many shops and classes throughout the town that offer the chance to learn this skill.
Learning to make your own lanterns in Hoi An is not only a fun activity but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.
You will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each lantern. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the process of creating something with your own hands.
Experience a Full Moon Festival
A couple enjoys the beautiful lanterns during the Full Moon Festival in Hoi An.
Imagine walking through the streets of Hoi An, Vietnam, surrounded by vibrant lanterns, the scent of incense in the air, and the sound of traditional music. You’re at the Full Moon Festival, one of the most exciting and culturally significant things to do in Hoi An.
The Full Moon Festival takes place on the 14th day of every lunar month, which typically falls on the night of the full moon. During this time, the town comes alive with activity as locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate.
One of the main attractions of the festival is the colorful lanterns that adorn the streets and shops. These lanterns are not just decorative, but also hold symbolic significance. They represent the hopes and dreams of the people of Hoi An, as well as their gratitude for the full moon’s light and its role in their daily lives.
The festival also features various performances of traditional music and dance. You can watch local performers in colorful costumes as they showcase their talents on stage. You may even be invited to join in the dancing yourself!
As you walk through the lantern-lit streets, you will also find street vendors selling local snacks and delicacies. You can try traditional foods like Cao Lau, a noodle dish unique to Hoi An, or Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich that’s famous all around the world.
The festival also features various performances of traditional music and dance. You can watch local performers in colorful costumes as they showcase their talents on stage. You may even be invited to join in the dancing yourself!
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Full Moon Festival is the ancient practice of releasing lanterns into the river. This is believed to bring good luck and to honor ancestors. You can purchase your own lantern to release, or watch as others send their lanterns floating down the river, creating a beautiful spectacle.
The Full Moon Festival in Hoi An is a celebration of tradition, culture, and community that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Attending the Full Moon Festival in Hoi An is a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, witness age-old traditions, and create lasting memories. Make sure to mark your calendar and plan your visit accordingly.
The Full Moon Festival in Hoi An is a celebration of tradition, culture, and community that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your lantern, try some local food, and join in the festivities. It’s an experience you’ll always remember.
Delight in the Foodie Paradise of Hoi An
When it comes to food, Hoi An is a paradise for foodies. The city’s cuisine is a fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, herbs, and spices. One of the must-try dishes in Hoi An is cao lau, a bowl of thick noodles served with tender pork, crispy croutons, and fresh herbs.
It’s said that the dish can only be made with water from a certain well in Hoi An, which gives it a unique flavor. Another famous dish in the region is mi quang, a noodle dish served with peanuts, vegetables, and meat or shrimp.
For a more casual meal, head to one of the many street food vendors around the city and try banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich filled with meat, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce.
For a more casual meal, head to one of the many street food vendors around the city and try banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich filled with meat, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce.
You can find some of the best banh mi in the country at Banh Mi Phuong, a tiny shop in the Old Town that has been featured on several international food shows.
For a more upscale dining experience, check out Cargo Club, a trendy restaurant located on the banks of the Thu Bon River. The menu features a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes, and the cocktails are not to be missed.
Another great option is Morning Glory, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Vietnamese dishes. Be sure to try the white rose dumplings, a Hoi An specialty made with shrimp and rice flour.
Enjoy a Day of Sun and Sand at An Bang Beach
Enjoy a day at An Bang Beach while visiting Hoi An.
If you’re looking for a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, An Bang Beach could be an ideal destination for you. With its crystal clear waters and soft, white sand, An Bang Beach is a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
As you stroll along the shore, you’ll find a variety of beachfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy local delicacies while soaking up the sun. From fresh seafood to traditional Vietnamese dishes, the culinary offerings here are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
One of the best things about An Bang Beach is its laid-back vibe. Unlike other crowded beaches, this one is relatively quiet.
For those who want to take a break from lounging on the beach, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding.
One of the best things about An Bang Beach is its laid-back vibe. Unlike other crowded beaches, this one is relatively quiet, making it a great place to recharge.
Learn Some History in Hoi An’s Museums
Learn about the area at Hoi An’s Museum of History and Culture.
If you’re interested in history, there are plenty of museums and historic sites in Hoi An to explore. The Hoi An Museum of History and Culture is a great place to learn about the city’s past and its role in the spice trade.
You can also visit the Quan Cong Temple, which dates back to the 17th century and is dedicated to a Chinese general. The temple features intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
Hoi An is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in culture, cuisine, or relaxation, you’ll find it here.
One of the unique things about Hoi An is its proximity to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features the ruins of an ancient Hindu temple complex. The temples were built by the Champa civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries and are a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s history.
Hoi An is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in culture, cuisine, or relaxation, you’ll find it here. From the narrow streets of the Old Town to the white sand beaches, this charming city will capture your heart and leave you wanting more.
