The Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide (2025 Update)
Your complete 2025 guide to Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, ancient history, and culinary treasures. Plan your perfect trip with our local expert advice.
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Experience the Magic of Hoi An
Welcome to our definitive **Hoi An Travel Guide**! As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An is a living museum, its soul preserved in the winding, lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town. Once a bustling trading port, the town is a beautiful melting pot of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.
As local experts, we’ve designed this guide to help you discover the true essence of Hoi An, from its most famous attractions to its best-kept secrets. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural deep-dive, or a culinary adventure, you’ll find everything you need right here. To start, find your perfect sanctuary from our curated list of the Best Hotels in Hoi An.
Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Hoi An
1. Wander the Ancient Town
Get lost in the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. Admire the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, explore ornate assembly halls, and soak in the timeless atmosphere of the yellow-walled shophouses.
Insider Tip: Purchase the official entrance ticket (120,000 VND), which grants you access to five heritage sites. The best time to explore is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
2. Craft Your Own Lantern
Hoi An is famous for its beautiful silk lanterns. Immerse yourself in the local culture by joining a lantern-making workshop, where you’ll learn the traditional techniques and create your own perfect souvenir.
Insider Tip: Many workshops are family-run and offer a wonderfully authentic experience. This is a fantastic activity for all ages and a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon.
3. Savor the Street Food
Hoi An is a culinary hotspot. Indulge in local specialties like Cao Lầu noodles, Bánh Mì from Banh Mi Phuong, and delicate White Rose dumplings, which you can only find here.
Insider Tip: The Central Market has a fantastic food hall where you can sample dozens of local dishes for just a few dollars. Don’t be afraid to try everything!
4. Relax at An Bang Beach
Just a short bike ride from the Ancient Town, An Bang Beach offers a laid-back vibe with golden sands, clear water, and a great selection of beachfront bars and restaurants.
Insider Tip: Many restaurants offer free use of their sun-loungers if you purchase food or drinks. Soul Kitchen is a popular spot with great music and a relaxed atmosphere.
5. Explore the Night Market
As the sun sets, Hoi An transforms. The An Hoi Night Market, located across the bridge from the Ancient Town, comes alive with hundreds of stalls selling lanterns, souvenirs, and delicious street food.
Insider Tip: After exploring the market, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River and release a paper lantern for good luck. It’s a magical experience that defines the Hoi An nightlife.
Best Time to Visit Hoi An
The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season from **February to April**. The weather is pleasantly warm (24–30°C) with low humidity and lots of sunshine, perfect for exploring the town and cycling through the countryside. The Full Moon Lantern Festival is a magical time to visit, held once a month. Visiting during this period allows you to experience the festival with the most comfortable weather.
How to Get to Hoi An
Hoi An is easily accessible from Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which is about a 45-minute drive away. You can take a taxi, use a ride-hailing app like Grab, or for ultimate convenience, book a private transfer in advance. Once in town, the best way to get around the compact Ancient Town is on foot or by renting a bicycle.
Hoi An Travel FAQs
Hoi An is most famous for its exceptionally well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also renowned for its skilled tailors who can create custom clothing in a day, its delicious local cuisine, and the magical Full Moon Lantern Festival.
Hoi An can be very affordable. Street food is delicious and cheap, bicycle rentals cost as little as $1 per day, and there are accommodation options for every budget, from hostels to luxury resorts. You can explore our Hoi An Hotels guide to find the best deals.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries require a visa to enter Vietnam. The e-visa process is generally straightforward. We recommend checking the latest requirements and applying through a trusted service like Vietnam Visa Online well in advance of your trip.