Hoi An is a trading port dating back to the 15th century and one of Vietnam’s most picturesque cities. The town’s history is visible in its quaint historic houses, traditional pagodas, and charming cafes lining the streets. Hoi An is renowned for its vibrant market scene, particularly its handmade clothing, attracting shoppers from around the world.
Yet, beyond its bustling markets, the town offers a calm escape, providing a peaceful contrast to the otherwise hectic pace of Vietnam. The best thing about Hoi An is that there is also a lot to do. To make clear what to do and see, here’s a list of the best things to do in Hoi.
Explore the old town
A delightful way to spend your time in Hoi An is by slowly wandering through its charming streets. The architecture showcases a unique fusion of French and Asian influences. The colorful facades, decorated with intricate shutters, reflect the town’s celebrated past.
To fully immerse yourself in Hoi An’s rich history, consider joining a guided walking tour. These tours provide captivating stories and historical context. The town’s architecture has been meticulously preserved as part of its UNESCO World Heritage status.
Along your journey, pause at cozy cafes, many of which feature terraces offering picturesque views of the quaint rooftops and the flowing river. As night descends, the town’s ambiance transforms, with lantern-lit streets casting a romantic glow that makes Hoi An feel like a scene from a bygone era. Don’t forget to indulge in local delicacies from the numerous street vendors and cafes scattered throughout the town.
Hoi An Night Markets
Hoi An’s night markets are a vibrant spectacle of color, culture, and culinary delights. The streets of Hoi An come alive with stalls selling a variety of goods, from handmade crafts and souvenirs to traditional clothing and jewelry. The markets are famous for their delicious street food, offering a chance to sample local dishes like bánh mì, cao lầu, and fresh spring rolls.
The night markets are not only a great place to shop but also to experience the local culture and mingle with both locals and tourists. A highlight of the night market experience is the sight of lanterns of all shapes and sizes lighting up the night. This creates a romantic and festive atmosphere. The markets are open every evening, but weekends are especially lively, making them the best time to visit.
Local Crafts and Workshops
Hoi An is famous for its rich tradition of craftsmanship, and you can immerse yourself in this heritage by participating in various workshops. The town is famous for its tailor shops, where skilled artisans can create custom-made clothing to your specifications. Beyond tailoring, Hoi An offers workshops in lantern making, pottery, and traditional Vietnamese painting.
These experiences allow you to create your own souvenirs but also provide a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of these crafts. One popular activity is visiting the Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Here, you can try your hand at moulding clay into beautiful pottery pieces.
Another highlight is the lantern-making workshops, where you can craft your own lantern, a symbol of Hoi An’s cultural identity. These workshops are a fantastic way to connect with the local community and bring home a personalized memento of your trip. The best time to enjoy these activities is during the daytime when the workshops are in full swing and artisans are available to guide you through the process.
Hoi An’s Coconut Village
For a unique experience, a visit to the Bay Mau Coconut Village, also known as the Cam Thanh Coconut Village, is a must. Located just a few kilometers from Hoi An, this vast area of water coconut palm trees is a serene escape from the busy town. You can explore the forest on traditional bamboo basket boats, guided by local fishermen who navigate the waterways and demonstrate traditional fishing techniques.
The forest is not only a peaceful place to relax but also provides an opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem. During the boat ride, you can try your hand at catching crabs and fish while participating in interactive activities like making traditional palm leaf crafts. The best time to visit the coconut forest is during the dry season, when the weather is pleasant and the water levels are ideal for boating.
Visit the Japanese Bridge
The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An, also known as Chùa Cầu, is called so because it was built by the Japanese community in the late 16th or early 17th century. Hoi An was a thriving international trading port, attracting merchants from various countries, including Japan, China, and European nations. The Japanese merchants constructed the picturesque bridge to connect their settlement with the Chinese quarter across the small canal.
The bridge’s distinctive architectural style, featuring a pagoda-like roof and traditional Japanese design elements, further underscores its origins and the influence of the Japanese presence in the area. The bridge offers a scenic view of the canal but also provides a serene spot for reflection amidst the lively town. You will be able to see the architectural details of the charming and well-preserved bridge by day or see it beautifully lit up by night.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season, which typically spans from February to July. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the town’s historic sites and scenic surroundings. The dry conditions also make it easier to enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, walking tours, and visiting the nearby beaches.
However, it’s advisable to avoid traveling during major Vietnamese public holidays, especially TET, the Lunar New Year celebration. During TET, which is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, many shops and restaurants close, and the town becomes busier as locals celebrate with their families. By planning your visit outside of these holidays, you can fully experience the charm of Hoi An with fewer crowds and more open attractions.
Hoi An awaits
In conclusion, Hoi An is a rich blend of experiences, from historic streets and vibrant markets to the beautiful coconut forests and craft workshops. Explore the ancient town, enjoy the bustling night markets, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the coconut forests, Hoi An promises an unforgettable journey.
