Hoi An: The Complete Guide to Discovering the Lantern City

Where is Hoi An located?

Hoi An, situated in Quang Nam province, is located on the central coast of Vietnam, about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang. Nestled near the mouth of the Thu Bon river, this ancient port city enjoys a strategic location that contributed to its commercial development from the 15th to the 19th century. At that time, Hoi An was an essential meeting point for merchants from Japan, China, and Europe, who left behind a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, the city now captivates with its picturesque alleys, traditional-style houses, and unique atmosphere, making it an appreciated destination for travelers from around the world.

What is the best time to visit Hoi An?

The best time to discover Hoi An runs from February to April, when the climate is dry and temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. These months offer sunny days and low humidity, perfect for exploring the old town, enjoying the beaches, and participating in local festivals.

From May to August, although temperatures can rise to 36°C, Hoi An remains pleasant, especially for those who love water activities. It is an ideal time to enjoy the beaches of An Bang and Cua Dai, despite higher humidity.

In contrast, from September to January, Hoi An enters the rainy season, characterized by frequent rainfall and sometimes typhoons. The months of October and November are particularly rainy, with risks of flooding in some areas. However, this period offers a quieter and less touristy atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a different experience.

What to do and see in Hoi An?

Hoi An, a true pearl of central Vietnam, is rich in activities and sites that fascinate all travelers. From historical heritage, relaxing nature, and local traditions, this city offers a unique experience that combines authenticity and timeless charm. Discover the must-see stops to fully enjoy this emblematic destination.

Explore the Old Town

The old town of Hoi An, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a true treasure where every cobbled alley invites discovery. Here you will find traditional wooden houses, temples laden with history, and craft shops that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the city. In the evening, multicolored lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a fairytale and unique atmosphere. Among the must-see places, the merchant houses such as that of Tan Ky and the meeting hall of the Chinese Phuc Kien congregation are living testimonies of Hoi An’s mercantile past.

The Japanese covered bridge, built in the 16th century, perfectly embodies Hoi An’s multicultural history. This architectural masterpiece, with its curved roof and refined sculptures, connects two historic neighborhoods. Its small sanctuary dedicated to a protective deity testifies to its spiritual role. Day and night, this emblematic bridge, surrounded by lanterns, offers an enchanting scene and is a must-visit stop during your stay.

Create your lanterns in a workshop

Immerse yourself in the traditional craftsmanship of Hoi An by participating in a lantern-making workshop, an emblematic symbol of the city. Under the guidance of local master craftsmen, learn to assemble the bamboo structure, choose colorful fabrics, and create your own personalized lantern.

Beyond the manual activity, this workshop is an immersion into local traditions and the history of this craft, passed down from generation to generation. At the end of the experience, take home your unique creation, a luminous and personalized keepsake of your time in Hoi An. A perfect activity for the curious and craft lovers!

Take a Vietnamese cooking class

Live a unique experience in Hoi An by sharing a moment of conviviality with a local family. This cooking workshop invites you to discover the secrets of Vietnamese gastronomy by actively participating in the preparation of a traditional lunch.

Among the specialties on the menu: crispy crepes, Hoi An spring rolls, Tam Huu (a tasty mix of pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs gently tied with a chive stem), or grilled fish in banana leaf. Every step, from simple gestures to more elaborate techniques, brings you closer to the authentic flavors of Vietnam.

And the pleasure doesn’t end there! After your efforts in the kitchen, you’ll taste your creations in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. More than just a cooking class, it’s a true invitation to explore Vietnamese culture through its dishes and traditions. A moment not to be missed for food lovers and those seeking to share.

Take a basket boat ride in the Bay Mau coconut forest

Discover the tranquility of the Bay Mau coconut forest, a magical place located near Hoi An. Board a basket boat, or Thung Chai, a traditional bamboo vessel used for generations by local fishermen.

This ride will take you through a maze of canals surrounded by water coconut trees, offering a unique and relaxing natural environment. You’ll have the opportunity to observe ancestral fishing methods, such as net casting, and even try your hand at navigating this peculiar boat. The rowers, always warm-hearted, will never fail to surprise you with their talent in maneuvering the basket boats in a playful and spectacular way. This experience, at once cultural and fun, is a great way to immerse yourself in local life and enjoy the natural beauty of Bay Mau. A must-do activity to discover an authentic and original side of Vietnam during your stay in Hoi An!

Cycle through the countryside

Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the countryside surrounding Hoi An offers a peaceful and authentic environment, ideal for exploring by bicycle. By following paths lined with green rice paddies, traditional villages, and small waterways, you’ll discover the simple and serene beauty of Vietnamese rural life.

This ride is the perfect opportunity to meet the locals, who will welcome you with a smile and share a bit of their daily life. Make a stop in a craft village to observe local skills or pause near the rice fields to admire the work of the farmers. A bicycle ride through Hoi An’s countryside allows you to slow down and connect with nature while living an authentic and enriching experience. It is a must-do activity for outdoor lovers and those seeking local discoveries.

Take a boat ride on the Hoai River

Discovering the Hoai River by boat, especially at night, is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Hoi An. This activity offers a moment of unique serenity, during which you can admire the reflections of lanterns gently illuminating the water. During the journey, the peaceful beauty of the river merges with the enchanted atmosphere of the historic neighborhood. This ride, often accompanied by lantern releases, allows not only to enjoy the landscape but also to participate in a local tradition rich in symbolism, carrying peace and hope.

Enjoy An Bang Beach

An Bang Beach, located just a few kilometers from the center of Hoi An, is a true invitation to relax. With its golden sand, calm and clear waters, and rows of palm trees, this small corner of paradise offers an ideal environment for unwinding and enjoying the sun.

Whether you wish to lie on a chaise longue, swim in the tranquil waters, or simply walk along the shore, An Bang will satisfy your desire for serenity. The beach is also lined with small local cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties facing the sea. An Bang is the perfect place to escape the bustle of the city and enjoy a moment of peace and refreshment, whether with family, as a couple, or with friends. A must-see stop for a successful stay in Hoi An.

Explore the gastronomy of Hoi An

Exploring the gastronomy of Hoi An means embarking on a discovery of a world of authentic and unique flavors, rooted in the rich Vietnamese culinary heritage. This small historic city, with timeless charm, is also a gastronomic capital that delights the palates of travelers from around the world.

Among the emblematic dishes, Cao Lau stands out for its thick noodles, tender pork, and fresh herbs, a combination that perfectly reflects Hoi An’s culinary identity. Banh Bao Banh Vac, more poetically known as “white roses,” seduce with their delicacy: small steamed dumplings delicately filled with shrimp. Then come Banh Xeo, these golden and crispy crepes filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, as well as Mi Quang, a colorful noodle soup enriched with crunchy peanuts and aromatic herbs.

To experience authentic culinary fare, explore the central market or numerous street stalls, where you’ll taste the simplicity and refinement of Vietnamese dishes. Don’t miss Banh Mi, this generous sandwich with incomparable flavors. It is impossible to speak of this dish without mentioning the famous Banh Mi Phuong, praised by Chef Anthony Bourdain as « the best Banh Mi in the world ». This iconic address, which still attracts visitors from around the world, proves that a simple sandwich can be elevated to the rank of culinary treasure. Hoi An thus invites you to a taste journey in which every bite tells a story, blending traditions, craftsmanship, and passion. A true feast for the senses in a city where gastronomy reigns supreme.

Explore the serenity of Tra Que vegetable village

Located just a few kilometers from Hoi An, the village of Tra Que is an oasis of calm and greenery, where nature and tradition flourish harmoniously. Walking through its lush gardens, you’ll discover traditional cultivations where farmers, bound by ancestral techniques that respect the environment, grow fresh vegetables of exceptional quality.

The peaceful atmosphere of the village, marked by the sweetness of rural life, invites relaxation and contemplation. To complete this experience, enjoy local dishes prepared with freshly harvested vegetables, true symbols of Tra Que’s expertise.

Designated « Best Tourism Village 2024 » by the World Tourism Organization, Tra Que is recognized for its efforts to preserve local culture, traditional agriculture, and sustainable tourism. This welcoming and verdant destination is a must-see for soaking in the simplicity and authenticity of the Vietnamese countryside during your stay in Hoi An.

Have custom-tailored clothes made

Hoi An is renowned as the capital of Vietnamese custom tailoring, offering unique craftsmanship passed down through generations. In the numerous shops and ateliers of the city, you’ll have the opportunity to have clothes created perfectly suited to your style and desires, whether elegant suits, delicate dresses, or light shirts.

Local artisans, attentive to the smallest details, will guide you in choosing fabrics, colors, and cuts to offer you a unique garment in record time, sometimes in less than 24 hours. This experience, at once practical and authentic, allows you to leave with custom creations, precious keepsakes of your time in Hoi An.

Attend the Hoi An Memories Show

The Hoi An Memories Show is a must-see performance that celebrates Hoi An’s history and culture through a grand and immersive staging. Presented outdoors on a giant stage in the heart of a natural setting, this show combines dance, music, traditional costumes, and spectacular visual effects.

Divided into several acts, the Memories Show retraces the key moments in the city’s history: from the origins of the fishing village to Hoi An’s prosperous days as an international merchant port. More than 500 artists move with grace, offering impressive performances that illustrate the richness of local heritage.

Let yourself be amazed by this living fresco in which traditions and modernity meet. This show, unique in its kind, is an experience not to be missed to immerse yourself in the soul of Hoi An and understand the importance of this city in Vietnamese history.

Visit the My Son Sanctuary

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the My Son Sanctuary is a fascinating historical site located about 40 kilometers from Hoi An. Nestled in the heart of a verdant valley surrounded by mountains, this religious complex, an ancient spiritual center of the Champa kingdom, bears witness to a flourishing civilization between the 4th and 13th centuries.

The remains of My Son, composed of red brick temples and finely sculpted towers, are mainly dedicated to Hindu worship and the deity Shiva. Despite the ravages of time and war, these ruins retain a mystical charm, where refined architecture and detailed bas-reliefs tell ancient myths and legends.

A visit to My Son offers a true journey into the past, among history, culture, and nature. To enjoy it fully, opt for an early morning excursion to avoid the heat and appreciate the tranquil atmosphere of the site. A must-see destination for history enthusiasts and lovers of timeless landscapes.

Tips for a successful trip to Hoi An

• Visit early or late to avoid crowds and enjoy milder temperatures.
• Prioritize bicycles to explore the countryside, nearby villages, and surrounding beaches.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the tropical sun.
• Learn a few Vietnamese words like “Xin chao” (Hello) and “Cam on” (Thank you) for warm exchanges.
• Respect local culture by wearing appropriate clothing when visiting temples.
• Bargain with a smile in markets and shops for pleasant transactions.
• Stay hydrated regularly to remain fit in the tropical climate.
• Support local craftsmanship by purchasing handmade souvenirs from artisans.
• Choose your meals carefully in clean, busy places for a risk-free culinary experience.
• Enjoy the sunset from a boat on the Thu Bon River, as well as the beaches of An Bang for unforgettable moments.