15 Must do’s in Hoi An | Vietnam

Many travelers choose Hoi An as their favorite city in Vietnam. This is because of the wonderful atmosphere, the beautiful historic houses everywhere, and the countless good restaurants and nice shops. Here are my must-dos and best tips for a visit to Hoi An.

P.S. You can see more photos on my Instagram!

Tailor-made clothing

Hoi An is famous for its custom tailoring, and it’s the perfect place to treat yourself to a wardrobe. You can make from scratch or bing in your favourite dress/piece to recreate. The tailors here are fast, skilled, and affordable. Most shops can deliver high-quality pieces in just 24–48 hours.

Tip: Do this on your first day to allow time for fittings and adjustments!

Coconut boats

Hop on a round bamboo coconut boat and cruise through the lush nipa palm forests just outside of Hoi An. These basket boats are unique to Vietnam’s central coast and often come with fun performances—think spinning boats and traditional music. 

Pottery village

Just a short ride from the old town, Thanh Ha Pottery Village offers a chance to get hands-on with one of Hoi An’s oldest crafts. Watch skilled artisans shape clay into beautiful pots, and even try your hand at the pottery wheel. Check-out the Terracotta Park: a mini clay world with replicas of famous landmarks.

Massage

After exploring the town, treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment, we’ve earned it. Hoi An is full of well-reviewed spas offering everything from herbal foot baths to full-body aromatherapy massages, all at very reasonable prices. Try to look for spas with local herbs and traditional Vietnamese treatments for a more authentic experience.

Lantern Market by night & boat ride

Hoi An’s old town transforms at night, glowing with thousands of colorful lanterns. Do I hear Rapunzel? Stroll through the night market, grab some local street food, and don’t miss the chance to float a candle-lit lantern down the river on a traditional wooden boat. The reflections on the water, the soft music, and the twinkling lanterns create a scene you’ll never forget.

Old center of Hoi An

Hoi An was an important trading hub in the 15th-19th century thanks to its perfect location by the sea. In the old centre, you can still find many old trading houses from this period (UNESCO World Heritage).

Tip: In order to protect the old centre, you must purchase an entrance ticket for several sights. You can get these at the yellow ticket counters

Vietnamese lanterns

You will find them everywhere in Hoi An; cheerful lanterns in all kinds of colours and patterns. You can make your own Vietnamese lantern! Choose your fabrics or paint the lantern and take the lantern home with you afterwards. A unique souvenir for home!

Cau Temple (Japanese bridge)

The Cau Temple, also known as the Japanese Bridge (16th century), is one of the most famous sights in the old town of Hoi An. This 18-meter long bridge is rich in arches, carvings and colorful decorations. In the middle of the bridge you will find a small Buddhist temple.

Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien

Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien is a Chinese temple, surrounded by large flower pots filled with beautiful colorful flowers. Inside the temple, the entire ceiling is filled with incense to appease the gods.

An Bang Beach

An Bang Beach is a nice place to escape from the city life and take a refreshing dip in the sea.

Vietnamese Cooking Class

Follow a Vietnamese cooking course!

Central Market of Hoi An

The Central Market of Hoi An is always very busy.  At the market you can find all kinds of fresh vegetables and fruit, meat and fish, but there are also items such as rattan baskets and flowers for sale. This is more for the locals.

Hoi An Night Market

Hoi An Night Market is popular with travellers. The market is located in a beautiful street on the water and is decorated with countless light-up lanterns. Grab a bite or buy a souvenir here. 

Ba Mu Temple Gate

In the middle of the old center of Hoi An lies the beautiful Ba Mu Temple (1926). 

Countryside of Hoi An

A really fun way to explore the countryside around Hoi An is by bike. E,joy the views and many rice fields!

Where to eat in Hoi An?

Here’s a list: Phi Banh Mi, Nourish Eatery, Rosie’s Cafe, Baba’s Kitchen, & Lim Dining Room.

How to get to Hoi An?

We came through the hai van pass from Hue! 

Where to stay in Hoi An?

We stayed at the Nghê Prana Villa & Spa Hội An****. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, restaurant and bar. 

Life of a Passion, Travel Blog