This post is about the share and answer all question and some things to do in Hoi An so if you have any questions, just leave a Whats app message for a quick respond. First, we all will wonder the questions about Hoi An. And why it became so popular?
What about Hoi An?
Hoi An has been recognized as a world cultural heritage since 1999. It has been popular due to many unique things to do and see.
Hoi An Ancient Town was a Southest Asia trading port from the 15th to 19th century. The architecutre reflects the influences of both indigenus and foreign. That have well-combined to produce this unique heritage site. Hoi An city has many cool things you must do. The beautiful beaches, unique Ancient Town, charming countryside and more for you to discovers.
History of Hoi An:
Hoi An’s history dates back to the 15th century when it was a thriving port town, attracting traders from China, Japan, and Europe. The city flourished under the influence of these cultures, which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. In the 17th century, Hoi An became a significant trading hub for spices, silk, and ceramics. The town declined in the 19th century due to the shifting trade routes and the construction of the nearby port in Da Nang. In the 1990s, Hoi An was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and efforts were made to preserve its historical and cultural heritage. Today, visitors can witness the rich history and unique charm of this ancient town.
When is the best time to visit Hoi An? How is Hoi An weather?
Hoi An has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high temperatures and humidity.
The city experiences distinct seasons: a hot and humid summer from May to August, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 39 degrees Celsius; a cooler and drier winter from November to February, with temperatures between 18 to 25 degrees Celsius; and a transitional period in spring (March and April) and autumn (September and October), which are relatively milder.
The rainy season in Hoi An typically lasts from September to January, with the heaviest rainfall from October to December. Overall Hoi An weather is quite pleasant. We always have the beaches so the weather is not so tough after all. So glad living here.
Check out Hoi An Weather by months via this post.
Best time to visit Hoi An
It is hard to say when to visit hoi an. To enjoy fun things to do in Hoi An, you better pick the dry and not too hot seasons. In the view of a local people here, for me, from Jan to April is the best time. Consider September since the change from summer to autumn here is pleasant.
Since the weather is not so hot, but cool and pleasant. However, don’t hesitate if you visit Hoi An the rest of the time. Still have many cool things to do in Hoi An in rainy season.
If you visit Hoi An from May to Sep, it can be very hot due to the summer heat (39-40 celcius degress). However it is nice to enjoy the beach and the rice field. From Oct to Dec is the rainny seasons in Hoi An. Occasionally, there are some typhoons, storms, and heavy rain can cause the flood in the town in this period of time.
However, the flood in Hoi An only happens during 1-2 days. So always good to check the weather before you come. Besides, you still can enjoy 25 special things to do in Hoi An old town during rainy days. There is no must do things in Hoi An, or must visit time to visit, research and enjoy it your own way.
25 recommended things to do in Hoi An:
- Having tarot reading in Hoi An with professional readers. Which helps you discover more about yourself, your situation and make better decisions in life. You will see tarot Hoi An is very different level and experience. You can arrange a session appointment that match your travel time.
- Join a craft, embroidery or sewing classes , crochet class by Little Daisy Hoi An. Good thing about it is you can pick up the time to join the class that fit your schedule. You will get 1-3 card TAROT READING FOR FREE when you join any workshop, Embroidery class can be the amazing things to do in Hoi An. Learn the skills that benefit you forever.
Little Daisy Hoi An speaks GOOD ENGLISH, please contact direct via Whatsapp/ Instagram/Facebook to get the best benefits/ price and most clear support if you have any questions.
Workshop Address: Dong Khoi street, Tra Que Vegetable Village, Hoi An. (Little Daisy Hoi An on Map, and Grab)
Showroom & Càfe Address: Phồng Phồng cafe, 36 Trần Quý Cáp street, Old Town.
- Walking through the Ancient Town and have a cafe at the roof top cafe to see the whole view. Walking through many hidden alleys, take some photos. Rooftop cafe shops are normally in Tran Phu street, by time the name and owner of these cafe shops changed, but the buildings stay mainly the same. But in my view, rooftop cafe only good for view and photo, not the coffee. For best cafe in town, scroll down the bottom for food list.
- Having a cafe at a coffee shop with the rice field view. Such as: Xom Chieu coffee, Hoa Lua coffee, Nhac Tranh coffee,… Very good when the Hoi An field is green or golden yellow. (Jan to Middle of May, Jun to Sep10th every year). In the middle of May and September, you might have a good walking trip to see the harvest season in Hoi An. Seeing the way people collect the rice, dry them in the beautiful sunlight.
- Having a boat ride to watch the sunset on Thu Bon river is one of the top things to do in Hoi An. Tour with Hoi An Tour Guide is highly recommended, since it will bring you to a unique sunset experience on the rive, to see the aquaculture here. You can see the Water Coconut Village, Fishing village, etc see the way fishermen making a living here and aquaculture Hoi An.
- Having a shopping & tailoring tour with us. Little Daisy Hoi An will arrange you the tour guide to walk you to buy your own fabric, bargaining to get your the best deal. The money you save will be much more than what you pay for one/half day or few hour tour guide. Contact our Whats app for a booking at any time.
- Natural Dyeing & Eco printing Workshop With Little Daisy Hoi An, where you can learn about indigo dyeing and eco printing with flowers, leaves. This immersive experience will introduce you to the art of indigo dyeing and the enchanting process of eco printing using vibrant flowers and leaves. Under the expert guidance of Little Daisy, you’ll learn to transform natural materials into beautiful, one-of-a-kind textiles. Explore the rich history and techniques behind these eco-friendly methods, and leave with your own handcrafted items that reflect both your creativity and respect for nature. This workshop promises not only to teach but to inspire, offering a unique blend of artistry and sustainability.
- Having a suit/clothing made. Hand embroidered clothings custom made can be cool things. Hoi An tailoring is quite good and cheap generally. Why don’t get some clothes when you are here. Contact us for some custom linen cloth. If you wonder why having many tailor shop in Hoi An, please read more below. Some people have been asking me about cheap and best tailors in Hoi An. Sometimes, if you pay for cheap, it is not good enough. And something good is quite over budget. I have a post about this, check it out Link.
- Having a basket boat on coconut village Hoi An. Normally it takes 40 mins. There will be many people inviting you on their tour boat, however, negotiate the price before you decided which one to join. Price normally 150k-200k/1 boat 2 people including the tickets.
- Riding bicyle through the rice field is free things to do. The green & yellow color will please you.
- Having a sunset/night street food tour exploration around Hoi An.
- Have a walking tour and listen to the history of Hoi An. Get some local guide to take you around and try some local food. If you want to have your own private English speaking guide, with deep and interesting understanding about Hoi An contact hoiantourguide.com for more information.
- Wake up early and go to the beach for a swim and seafood. Hoi An beach is awesome. Clean and fresh. Enjoy your cool day at Tan Thanh Beach, An Bang Beach or Cua Dai beach. Sound of Slience is a nice cafe to watch the beach. It is a good cafe to bring your kids to, so kids can play together and you all have relax time.
- Learning to sew in Hoi An can be fun. Little Daisy Hoi An offers sewing class for beginners or intermediate or advanced learners. I did mention the craft classes above. But it is definitely cool class that you might not find anywhere else.
- Try some vegetarian local restaurants here. Peanuts restaurant is one of our favorite.
- Joining a cooking class can be one of 25 best things to do in Hoi An. While experience local cooking styles, you can enjoy food cooked by you. Recommended, Water Wheel Cooking Class Hoi An.
- Picking Hoi An tours to Cham Island, Coconut village, and Basket Boat Tour or Diving tour in Cham Island. However if you are in Hoi An in a short time, maybe you should consider Cham island for next trips since it will take time traveling there by speed boat.
- Indulge in the fascinating coffee culture of Hoi An! Vietnam is the second largest exporting country in the world. Discover numerous hidden gems serving amazing coffee varieties, including egg coffee, coconut coffee, salt coffee, and so many more!
Questions about Da Nang and Hoi An
Where to withdraw money from ATM? Where to exchange money?
ATM is everywhere, in the Hoi An Old Town Central. In Hai Ba Trung street, Hoang Dieu street,… You can find Vietcombank, MB, Teckcombank ATM,…
To exchange currency, many gold shops in Hoang Dieu street do that. They have good service and fair price.
Hoi An in Rainy flooding season?
It is not that bad as it sounds, many unusual things to do in Hoi An for rainy season. But to know more about Hoi An floods, click this post about Hoi An rainy fllooding season.
Does Hoi An flood every year?
Yes, but small part of Hoi An only. As the rain comes, the rives rises up a little bit on the road around the river. Every 4 years, there will be a bigger flood than normal. The rest of the town stays nice, so you still can enjoy many unique things to do in Hoi An. While it can be an unique experience to see the local life in this special time.
Banh Mi Hoi An – Hoi An sandwiches.
Banh Mi Phuong could be the best Banh Mi in the world, but not the best in Hoi An.
Besides Banh Mi Phuong, Madame Khanh Queen Banh Mi, we have many locals banh mi very tasty. Where locals tend to go such as Banh my Lanh,… The fact that we all have different taste, but these local brands of Banh Mi are all good and tasty.
Food are relative, so it is hard to say which is the best Banh Mi. You have to try to decide, but dont feel bad if you miss any of them. They are quite similar taste. But for vegan Banh Mi, you should check out Peanuts restaurant.
Activities in Hoi An with kids?
Please check this blog about engaging things to do with your children in Hoi An.
Things to do in Hoi An for children and mom – Embroidery & Crochet class.
What about Hoi An, Da Nang & Hue?
How far is it from Da Nang to Hoi An?
It is 35 kms, 40 mins by motorbike riding or car riding. The beach road is nice, wide, and plesant. Riding motorbike from Da Nang to Hoi An can be cool things to do in Hoi An.
How to get from Da Nang to Hoi An? How to travel around Hoi An?
By taxi, or rent a motorbike, or bus. There is a company name Hoi An Express. They run bus from Da nang to Hoi An and Hoi An to Da Nang every 1-2 hours. The price is around 5 usd/ one trip. If you book private 4 -7 seat car from Da Nang to Hoi An, it can cost around 10-15 usd.
Grab is good choice when it comes to traveling around Hoi An. It normally cost less than 4 usd to go for 10 km by car/bike. Sometimes, if you could not order a grab, Mai Linh Taxi is a good options. The staff from their call center will accept your call and arrange the drive to call and opick you up. Price is clear, fair, and good.
Besides, you can rent a motorbike or bicycle in Hoi An to drive around. Traffic in Hoi An can be busy sometimes. But generally quite safe to drive by yourself.
How to travel between Hue to Hoi An, Hoi An to Hue?
By motorbike, you can rent one and drive. The road is big and safe. However, be prepared since it take 4 hours.
Is it safe to drive from Da Nang to Hoi An at night?
It is safe to drive motorbike to Hoi An from Da Nang. The lights on the roads are on all the time, and the road is wide and nice.
Best tailors in Hoi An
Hoi An is renowned for its skilled tailors who offer bespoke clothing at affordable prices. Some famous tailoring shops like Bebe Tailors, Yaly Tailor, Beli Tailor, ….
Why having so many tailor shops in Hoi An?
Well, actually there are a few of sewing factory and many tailors in town. Normally the shops connect with them and become the middle party. But when you come here with limited amount of time, it always good to go to the shops, and pay more for things get done quicker.
Little Daisy Hoi An, a popular linen tailoring shop in the area. We are the team of tailors and artisans specialize in linen clothing and best hand emrboidery in town.
You can place an order before you come, and pick up by the time you are here.
Little Daisy Hoi An stands out for its exceptional quality of hand embroidery & custom sewing service, prompt delivery times, making us a top choice for both locals and tourists alike seeking the best tailors in Hoi An.
Is 2 days enough in Hoi An?
Actually yes and no. Yes. In 2 days, you can actually enjoy a lot of things to do and see in Hoi An. Enjoy the town, the beach, the food. There is actually no must-do things in Hoi An for you. As me, living in the town for years, I never do a basket boat tour myself. But I always enjoy the beach, the craft class. So always based on your own taste to choose what to do or what to skip.
Is it better to stay in Hoi An or Da Nang?
When deciding between Hoi An and Da Nang, consider the following:
Hoi An is peaceful with well-preserved architecture, local cuisine, and various accommodation options, while Da Nang has a modern vibe and attractions like beaches and nightlife.
Da Nang also serves as a base to nearby attractions. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preferences. Spend 1-2 nights in each city
What are the must-see attractions in Hoi An?
Please visit Rehann museum, Luna Show and Little Daisy Hoi An Embroidery Workshop.
The Rehann Museum and Luna Show in Hoi An offer visitors a distinctive and immersive experience.
The museum situated in Hoi An’s ancient town highlights the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Vietnamese people through displays comprising ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, modern-day technology, and contemporary art.
The interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations offer fascinating insights into Vietnam’s rich history and heritage.
In contrast, the Luna Show is a mesmerizing performance that combines traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and theater with modern technology and visual effects.
The show, held in a specially designed theater, takes the audience on a captivating journey through Vietnamese mythology and folklore, featuring stunning costumes, intricate choreography, and awe-inspiring special effects that leave the audience spellbound until the end of the unforgettable experience.
In Hoi An’s ancient town, the Little Daisy Embroidery Workshop & Showroom is a treasure trove of traditional craftsmanship.
Watch local artisans at work, passing down techniques from generation to generation, as they create exquisite embroidery pieces.
The showroom features a diverse range of beautifully crafted products, from traditional Vietnamese clothing to modern fashion items, all made with fine materials and traditional techniques.
This must-visit destination showcases Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and is perfect for those interested in local crafts and artisanal products.
Address: Dong Khoi street, Tra Que Vegetable Village, Hoi An
What are the best places to eat in Hoi An?
Please scroll down for food recommendations from us.
How many days should I spend in Hoi An?
Two to three days are usually sufficient for exploring Hoi An, a charming town in central Vietnam known for its well-preserved old quarter filled with historic landmarks such as temples, pagodas, museums, shops selling traditional crafts like lanterns and silk, and a variety of delicious local cuisine.
During your stay, take time to wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful houses and lanterns, rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the surrounding countryside, and catch a sunset over the Thu Bon River.
With its relaxed pace of life, Hoi An is an ideal destination for travelers who want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture and history!
Is it worth visiting Hoi An during the rainy season?
Lesser crowds and lower prices make Hoi An during the rainy season (April to September) a worthwhile choice for some travelers who don’t mind occasional showers.
Are there any local markets or night markets in Hoi An?
Local market or night market located along Hoi An river, Bach Dang street.
What are some unique souvenirs to buy in Hoi An?
Hoi An is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking unique souvenirs. Hand-embroidered gifts, such as tablecloths, pillowcases, and wall hangings, are a specialty here.
The intricate designs and vibrant colors are a testament to the skill of the local artisans. Notebooks from Little Daisy Hoi An are another must-buy item. These notebooks are made from recycled materials and feature beautiful illustrations of Hoi An’s landmarks and street scenes.
They make for a thoughtful and eco-friendly souvenir that will remind you of your time in this charming town. Other items to consider include lanterns, silk scarves, and traditional Vietnamese clothing like ao dai and conical hats.
Shopping in Hoi An is a feast for the senses, with the colorful and bustling markets offering a wide variety of goods at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for a small memento or a larger gift, Hoi An has something to suit every taste and budget.
Is Nha Trang better than Hoi An?
In my view, Hoi An is better since its unique beautiful ancient town. and lifestyle.
Both Nha Trang and Hoi An offer unique experiences. Nha Trang is known for its beautiful beaches, while Hoi An is famous for its charming ancient town and tailoring. Preferences differ, so it’s subjective to say which is better. Visit both to decide which suits you best.
Top Attractions in Hoi An:
Hoi An, a picturesque city in central Vietnam, is known for its well-preserved ancient town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The top attractions in Hoi An include the Ancient Town, a charming area with colorful merchants’ houses, narrow streets, and numerous historical sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An that dates back to the 16th century.
Other notable attractions are the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, a beautiful temple dedicated to Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea; and the Museum of Trade Ceramics, showcasing Hoi An’s historical role as a trading port. Visitors can also explore the tranquil Tra Que Village, known for its organic vegetable gardens, and the nearby My Son Sanctuary, an ancient complex of Hindu-like temples that showcase the Cham civilization.
Cost of Traveling in Hoi An:
The cost of traveling in Hoi An depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation options range from budget hostels to luxurious resorts.
Local street food is affordable, with meals costing around $2-$5, while mid-range restaurants can cost $7-$15 per meal. Transportation within Hoi An is inexpensive, with options like cycling, walking, or taking motorbike taxis.
You can read more about Transport in Hoi An at this post.
If you plan to travel around the region, consider renting a motorbike or booking day tours. Overall, Hoi An is a budget-friendly destination, but additional expenses like souvenirs, activities, and personal comforts can increase your overall cost.
Famous Dishes to Try in Hoi An:
Hoi An is renowned for its delicious and unique local cuisine. Some famous dishes to try include Cao Lau, a noodle dish with pork, greens, and crunchy rice crackers, served in a savory broth.
Mi Quang is another popular dish featuring yellow noodles, topped with local ingredients like pork, shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, and peanuts. Banh Beo is a small, steamed rice cake served with fish sauce, while Com Ga is a traditional Hoi An chicken rice dish, seasoned with turmeric and served with a flavorful broth.
Don’t forget to indulge in local desserts like Che Bap (corn pudding) or enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee at a riverside café.
Safety for Solo Travelers in Hoi An:
Hoi An is considered safe for solo travelers, with a friendly atmosphere and low crime rates. The city has a relaxed and welcoming vibe, making it easy for travelers to explore on their own. However, it’s essential to practice basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and avoiding walking alone in deserted streets at night.
Familiarize yourself with the local customs and respect the local culture to ensure a positive travel experience.
Getting Around in Hoi An:
Hoi An is a compact city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Walking is the most popular and environmentally friendly way to explore the Ancient Town and nearby attractions.
You can rent a bicycle or motorbike to cover more distance or visit places outside the city center. Motorbike taxis and cyclo rickshaws are also available for short trips, while taxis can be used for longer journeys.
Consider using a map or GPS to navigate the city, as some streets in the Ancient Town are narrow and easy to get lost in.
Nightlife in Hoi An:
Hoi An’s nightlife offers a mix of relaxed and lively options for travelers. Along the riverside, you’ll find numerous bars and rooftop lounges with stunning views of the Thu Bon River and the colorful lanterns that light up the Ancient Town.
Live music venues, such as The Riverside and Hoi An Roof Top Bar, host local and international performances. For those seeking a more low-key atmosphere, cozy cafes and street-side bars offer a chance to unwind with a drink while watching the world go by.
Some of the bar or restaurant to enjoy a nice colktails, wines:
The Hill Station – happy hour from 2-6pm 50% discount on wine.
Hoi An also has a vibrant street food scene at night, allowing you to sample local delicacies while enjoying the city’s enchanting atmosphere.
Before planning a fun trip to Hoi An, please read this post for Vietnam travel safety trips. We wish you have happy travel in Hoi An, Vietnam.
Recomendations for foods, cafe, shops – best things to do in Hoi An
Cafe shops:
- Bill cafe 22 Tran Hung Dao – Nice cappucino, cafe shop right in the town center with AC.
- Phồng Phồng cafe – 36 Trần Quý Cáp street – near Hoi An Market for the best croissant in Hoi An
- Tri Long Cafe – Lê Hồng Phong street for the best egg cafe in Hoi An.
- Me cafe – Tran Phu street for the rooftop Hoi An view
Restaurants:
- Cơm Linh – Best traditional Vietnamese food, both vegan or non vegan
- Peanuts restaurant – best Vietnamese vegan food in Hoi An
- Nourish Eatery – Vegan food more western style, big portion, good price.
- Ngôi Sao Beer – Lê Hồng Phong street – Best Hoi An local chicken bbq and steamed.
- Cao Lau Thanh – 26 Thai Phien street, Hoi An for the best Cao Lau speciality of Hoi An.
- Pizza Phuong Uyen – Le Thanh Tong street for the best pizza in Hoi An. It is very close to Italian pizza in the view of expats living here.
Shopping:
- Memory Jewelry Hoi An – Address: 26 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai street, near Japanese bridge. For the best handmade jewelry Hoi An, Vietnam.
- Little Daisy Hoi An for custom hand embroidery gifts, and linen clothing.
- Hot Chilli Hoi An – For the cotton clothing for men, women and children in unique designs.
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