Blog Vietnam Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Hoi An

The best time to visit Hoi An, Vietnam, is typically between February and April. This period offers the most comfortable weather for exploring Hoi An's charming ancient town, beaches, and nearby countryside, with warm temperatures and relatively low rainfall. Here’s an overview of Hội An's seasonal weather to help you plan:

1. Spring (February to April)

• Weather: Temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), with little rainfall and pleasant humidity levels.
• Highlights: Ideal for sightseeing, enjoying the lantern-lit streets, and taking part in outdoor activities. The Hội An Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month, is a beautiful experience during these months.

2. Summer (May to August)

• Weather: Hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is still moderate but increases slightly toward the end of summer.
• Considerations: This season is suitable for beach activities and water sports, as the sea conditions are usually calm. However, it can feel quite hot, so plan outdoor sightseeing for early morning or late afternoon.

3. Autumn (September to November)

• Weather: The rainy season peaks, with frequent downpours and potential flooding, especially in October and November.
• Considerations: Although the weather can be unpredictable, the town becomes lush and atmospheric in the rain, which can add charm to Hội An’s lantern-lit streets. If you’re comfortable with a bit of rain, early September is a good option with slightly fewer tourists.

4. Winter (December to January)

• Weather: Cooler temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), with some drizzle and cloudy days.
• Highlights: Winter offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds, and the weather is mild enough for walking tours and cultural activities. Though swimming may not be ideal, it’s a great time to explore Hoi An's temples, markets, and restaurants.

Each season has its unique appeal, but spring offers the most balanced weather, making it ideal for a full Hoi An experience.

Best hotels & hostels in Hoi An

Hoi An, a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its ancient town, lantern-lit streets, and scenic riverside. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort, a budget hostel, or a cozy homestay, Hoi An has a wide range of options for every traveler. Here’s a list of some of the best hotels and hostels in Hoi An.

• LITTLE RESIDENCE. A BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

• LITTLE HOI AN BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

• Grand Sunrise Palace Hoi An

• Ahoy Hoi An Boutique Resort & Spa

• RiverTown Hoi An Resort & Spa

• Maison Fleur Luxury Hoi An

• Hoi An Babylon Luxury Hotel & Spa

• Little Oasis - An Eco Friendly Hotel & Spa

• Little Riverside Hoi An . A Luxury Hotel & Spa

• Allegro Hoi An . A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa

How to get there

Hoi An, a charming ancient town and UNESCO World Heritage site in central Vietnam, is a popular destination located close to Da Nang. Here’s a guide on how to get there from nearby cities:

1. By Plane (to Da Nang Airport, then Transfer to Hoi An)

Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport, so the closest option is to fly to Da Nang International Airport and then take a transfer to Hoi An.

• Duration: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by plane from either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, plus 45 minutes by car from Da Nang to Hoi An.
• Airport: Da Nang International Airport (DAD), located about 30 kilometers from Hoi An.

2. By Train (to Da Nang, then Transfer to Hoi An)

The nearest train station to Hoi An is in Da Nang. Taking the train is a scenic way to reach central Vietnam, especially if you’re coming from cities like Hanoi or Hue.

• Duration:
• From Hanoi: About 15-17 hours.
• From Ho Chi Minh City: Around 16-18 hours.
• From Hue: Roughly 2.5-3 hours along a scenic stretch of coastline.
• Types of Trains: SE trains (SE1, SE3, etc.) have options for sleepers or seats, with different comfort levels.

3. By Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly way to reach Hoi An, with options available from nearby cities like Hue and Da Nang.

• Duration:
• From Hue: About 3-4 hours.
• From Da Nang: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Bus Types: Sleeper buses, mini-buses, and local buses are available for routes from Da Nang and Hue.
• Departure Points: Buses to Hoi An typically depart from Da Nang Central Bus Station or can pick up passengers directly from Da Nang Airport.

4. By Private Car or Taxi (From Da Nang or Hue)

Hiring a private car or taxi is one of the most comfortable ways to reach Hoi An, especially for families or small groups.

• Duration:
• From Da Nang: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• From Hue: About 3-4 hours via the scenic Hai Van Pass.
• Benefits: This option allows you to travel at your own pace and stop for sightseeing, such as at Marble Mountains or along the Hai Van Pass.

5. By Motorbike

For adventurous travelers, riding a motorbike to Hoi An offers a unique way to experience Vietnam’s central coast, especially from Da Nang or Hue.

• Duration:
• From Da Nang: About 1 hour.
• From Hue: Roughly 3-4 hours along the scenic Hai Van Pass.
• Requirements: Ensure you’re experienced in riding a motorbike on winding roads and have a valid motorcycle license.

How to get around

Hoi An, a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, is known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and beautiful riverside setting. The compact layout of Hoi An’s Old Town, along with its many pedestrian-friendly zones, makes getting around easy and enjoyable. Here’s a guide to exploring Hoi An and its nearby attractions:

1. Walking

• Best For: Exploring the Old Town and nearby sites.
• Description: Walking is one of the best ways to experience Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow streets and riverside setting make it easy to walk from one attraction to another. The Old Town is mostly pedestrianized during the day, adding to the relaxed, walkable atmosphere.
• Popular Walking Areas:
• Japanese Covered Bridge: A must-see, iconic landmark that connects two parts of the Old Town.
• Lantern Streets and Riverside Promenade: Beautifully lit at night with traditional lanterns.
• Tips:
• Wear comfortable shoes, as Hoi An’s cobbled streets can be uneven.
• Avoid walking during midday heat; evenings are especially enchanting with all the lanterns lit.

2. Bicycle Rental

• Best For: Exploring surrounding countryside and nearby beaches.
• Description: Hoi An’s flat terrain and scenic routes make it a perfect place for biking. Many hotels and homestays offer bicycles for rent, often for free or a minimal fee. Biking is an excellent way to reach An Bang Beach, the Tra Que Vegetable Village, and the rice paddies around Hoi An.
• Suggested Routes:
• Old Town to An Bang Beach: A scenic, easy ride of about 5 km with rice paddies and village views along the way.
• Old Town to Tra Que Vegetable Village: A short, picturesque route through green fields, perfect for a half-day outing.
• Tips:
• Use a map or GPS if you’re exploring countryside paths, as they can be confusing.
• Bring sunscreen and water, especially for longer rides.

3. Motorbike Rental

• Best For: Longer day trips and exploring further destinations.
• Description: While Hoi An’s Old Town is best explored on foot or by bicycle, renting a motorbike can be useful for reaching places further out, like the My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of ancient Hindu temples. Motorbikes are also ideal for travelers wanting to explore Da Nang and Marble Mountains.
• Popular Destinations by Motorbike:
• My Son Sanctuary: About 40 km southwest of Hoi An, it’s a beautiful day trip.
• Da Nang and Marble Mountains: A scenic coastal drive 20-30 km away, passing beaches and viewpoints.
• Tips:
• Hoi An can be busy with pedestrians, so be cautious if riding near the Old Town.
• Make sure to check the bike’s condition and wear a helmet.

4. Cyclo (Bicycle Rickshaw)

• Best For: Short trips around the Old Town for a traditional experience.
• Description: Cyclos are popular in Hoi An’s Ancient Town, offering a unique and laid-back way to see the sights. Cyclo drivers know the town’s best routes, making this a great option for a short, relaxing tour through Hoi An’s streets.
• Suggested Cyclo Tours:
• Old Town Circuit: A ride around Hoi An’s key historical spots, perfect for those who want a scenic overview.
• Night Tour along the Riverside: Cyclo rides in the evening allow you to see the lantern-lit streets and the bustling riverside.
• Tips:
• Negotiate the fare before starting, as cyclos don’t have meters.
• Cyclo rides are usually priced by time, so ask for the rates beforehand.

5. Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

• Best For: Scenic views and experiencing local culture along the river.
• Description: Boat rides on the Thu Bon River are a memorable way to experience Hoi An. During the day, boat rides take you to fishing villages and nearby islands, while at night, you can enjoy a peaceful ride under the glow of Hoi An’s lanterns. Lantern boats, where you can release a floating lantern, are particularly popular at night.
• Popular Boat Routes:
• Lantern Boat Ride: A short, enchanting evening ride to release floating lanterns on the river.
• Half-Day Boat Tour to Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Visit a nearby island known for its skilled woodworkers.
• Tips:
• Evening rides are best for the lantern experience, while daytime rides offer more sightseeing.
• Confirm the duration and price before setting off, as some tours have specific stops or activities included.

6. Taxi and Grab

• Best For: Comfortable, air-conditioned rides around Hoi An and trips to nearby Da Nang.
• Description: Taxis and Grab (a popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam) are convenient options for quick rides around Hoi An, especially when heading to or from the airport, An Bang Beach, or Da Nang. Taxis are metered, while Grab offers fixed pricing through its app.
• Tips:
• Grab is often more affordable and predictable than hailing a street taxi.
• For longer trips, such as Da Nang to Hoi An, consider booking Grab in advance, especially during peak hours.

7. Private Car with Driver

• Best For: Day trips to nearby attractions with comfort and flexibility.
• Description: For families, groups, or travelers wanting a more comfortable experience, hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient choice. This is ideal for full-day trips to places like My Son Sanctuary or Marble Mountains in Da Nang.
• Suggested Itinerary by Private Car:
• Hoi An Old Town ➔ My Son Sanctuary ➔ Marble Mountains ➔ An Bang Beach: This full-day trip covers key attractions around Hoi An and Da Nang.
• Tips:
• Arrange this through your hotel or a reputable agency to ensure fair pricing.
• Discuss your itinerary in advance with the driver to avoid any misunderstandings.

Top Experiences in Hoi An

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Vietnam, is renowned for its well-preserved Ancient Town, charming lantern-lit streets, and unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French architecture. With beautiful beaches nearby and a rich cultural heritage, Hoi An offers an array of experiences for travelers. Here are the top things to do in Hoi An:

1. Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town

• Overview: Hoi An’s Ancient Town is famous for its cobblestone streets, historic merchant houses, Chinese temples, and Japanese architecture.
• Must-See Sites:
• Japanese Covered Bridge: This iconic bridge dates back to the 16th century and features ornate carvings and statues.
• Fujian Assembly Hall: A beautifully decorated hall with traditional Chinese architectural details, built by the Chinese Fujian community.
• Old House of Tan Ky: A 200-year-old merchant’s home preserved in its original form, showcasing traditional Vietnamese interiors.
• Tip: Buy an entrance ticket for the Ancient Town, which grants access to several of the historic sites.

2. Witnessing the Hoi An Lantern Festival

• Overview: Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, the Lantern Festival transforms the town into a magical display of color and light.
• What to Expect: During the festival, the town’s electric lights are turned off, and hundreds of colorful lanterns light up the streets. Locals and visitors release floating lanterns into the Thu Bon River for good luck.
• Best Viewing Spots: The riverside near the Japanese Covered Bridge is particularly picturesque.
• Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot and take a lantern boat ride for a truly immersive experience.

3. Enjoying a Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

• Overview: A boat ride on the Thu Bon River offers beautiful views of Hoi An’s Ancient Town and the surrounding countryside.
• What to Expect: During sunset, the river becomes especially scenic, with the golden light reflecting off the water and the lantern-lit boats adding charm.
• Options: You can take a traditional wooden boat or a sampan and even choose a ride that includes releasing floating lanterns during the evening.
• Tip: Sunset is the best time for a boat ride, as the soft light creates a serene and magical atmosphere.

4. Taking a Vietnamese Cooking Class

• Overview: Hoi An is a fantastic place to learn about Vietnamese cuisine, with many cooking classes that take you from the market to the kitchen.
• What to Expect: Classes typically start with a market tour to shop for fresh ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking session where you learn to make dishes like pho, banh xeo, and fresh spring rolls.
• Popular Cooking Schools: Red Bridge Cooking School, Tra Que Village, and Green Bamboo Cooking School are well-known for their interactive classes.
• Bonus: Many classes are set in lush gardens or countryside settings, adding a relaxing element to the experience.

5. Cycling Through the Countryside to Tra Que Herb Village

• Overview: Just a short bike ride from Hoi An, Tra Que Herb Village is known for its organic farms and traditional vegetable-growing techniques.
• Experience: Cycle through rice paddies and small villages, where you’ll see locals working in the fields. At Tra Que, you can take a tour of the gardens and even participate in planting and watering herbs.
• Cultural Insight: The herbs grown here are a vital part of Hoi An’s cuisine, known for adding fresh flavors to local dishes.
• Tip: Many tours combine cycling with cooking classes, where you can use fresh ingredients picked right from the garden.

6. Relaxing at An Bang Beach

• Overview: An Bang Beach is one of Hoi An’s best beaches, offering a clean, sandy stretch with a relaxed vibe.
• What to Expect: Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood at the beachfront cafes. The beach has loungers and umbrellas available for rent.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season from April to September is ideal for beachgoers, with warm weather and clear skies.
• Tip: Arrive early in the morning or around sunset for a quieter experience and pleasant temperatures.

7. Visiting the Hoi An Central Market

• Overview: Located along the riverside, Hoi An Central Market is a bustling hub for fresh produce, street food, and local specialties.
• What to Expect: Wander through stalls selling everything from exotic fruits and vegetables to fish, spices, and Vietnamese street food like banh mi and cao lau.
• Highlights: The food section is a must-see, with vendors selling regional dishes and fresh seafood that can be cooked to order.
• Tip: Try bargaining for souvenirs or fresh produce, and enjoy a meal at the market’s food court to sample authentic local flavors.

8. Discovering My Son Sanctuary

• Overview: My Son Sanctuary, about 40 kilometers from Hoi An, is an ancient Cham site with Hindu temples dating back over a thousand years.
• What to Expect: Set in a lush jungle valley, the site features red-brick temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, showcasing unique Champa architecture.
• Historical Insight: My Son was an important religious center for the Cham civilization, and many of the temples bear carvings of deities, warriors, and sacred animals.
• Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, and consider hiring a guide to gain insight into the site’s history.

9. Strolling Through the Lantern-Lit Streets at Night

• Overview: As evening falls, Hoi An’s streets come alive with colorful lanterns illuminating the ancient buildings, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
• What to Expect: Walk through the Old Town and along the riverfront, where lantern-lit boats and riverside cafes add to the ambiance.
• Highlights: The Nguyen Thai Hoc, Tran Phu, and Bach Dang streets are particularly enchanting with their glowing lanterns and charming old architecture.
• Photography Tip: The lanterns and soft lighting create beautiful photo opportunities, especially for those interested in night photography.

10. Admiring Traditional Crafts at Thanh Ha Pottery Village

• Overview: Just a few kilometers from Hoi An, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is famous for its traditional ceramic-making techniques.
• What to Expect: Visit local workshops to watch artisans shaping pottery by hand and try your own hand at making a clay item.
• Highlights: The village also has a Pottery Museum displaying a variety of ceramic items and sculptures.
• Unique Souvenirs: You can purchase handmade pottery and other ceramics as authentic souvenirs to take home.

Hoi An Tour