With its picturesque riverside setting, UNESCO listed Old Town and wealth of cultural attractions, Hoi An is one of the most visitor friendly destinations in Vietnam. Explore the city’s excellent museums, shop for bargains in the local market, sample some of Vietnam’s best cuisine or hire a bike and get out and explore the stunning local scenery. Relaxed, welcoming and full of character, Hoi An really does have something for everyone.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Hoi An
Old Town – Hoi An’s star attraction, the Old Town draws visitors to this idyllic spot from far and wide. Explore the French colonial houses, the Japanese built covered bridge and the old canals that crisscross the district. Sample local culinary delights or spend your days shopping for souvenirs in the independent shops that dot the Old Town.
The Cham Islands – Located nine nautical miles off of the coast of Hoi An, the Cham Islands offer white sands, idyllic bays and densely forested hills. Head to the islands to try your hand at diving or snorkelling or simply to relax in the pristine surroundings of this protected area.
An Bang – One of the nearest beaches to the historic centre of Hoi An, An Bang is a great destination if you’re looking for somewhere to relax, unwind and soak up some sun. There are a number of things to do in and around the beach, with bars, shops, cafes and even cooking courses within easy reach of the white sands.
Tra Que Village – Located just outside central Hoi An, Tra Que Village feels a million miles from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. Hire a bike and cycle through the nearby paddy fields, take part in a local cookery course or spend an afternoon relaxing and experiencing rural life in Vietnam.
Things to See in Hoi An
Most of Hoi An’s main sights are located in the city’s Old Town. Visit the elegant 17th century Japanese Covered Bridge, learn more about local culture at the Quan Cong Temple or delve into Hoi An’s rich history at one of the city’s excellent museums. To get a glimpse into life in old Hoi An, visit the Phung Hung House, the Quan Thank House or the Tan Ky House, all of which have been preserved to serve as informal living museums.
Things to Do in Hoi An
Once you’ve had your fill of historic buildings, ancient pagodas and museums, there’s plenty more to keep you busy in Hoi An. If you’re interested in Vietnam’s cuisine, there are a number of cookery schools in the city offering a range of culinary courses and experiences. Alternatively, join a food tour and have someone else do the hard work for you. As Hoi An is quieter and more relaxed than other Vietnamese cities, it’s a great place to hire a bike and explore on two wheels. To get another view of the city, join a kayak tour and see Hoi An from the water. Diving and snorkelling can be found at the nearby Cham Islands, while regular cruises sail up the Thu Bon River.
