Visiting Hoi An, a historic city in Central Vietnam
Hoi An, located in the Quảng Nam province, is a historic and cultural hub in Central Vietnam. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999, this former port town draws travelers with its preserved architecture, relaxed pace, and deep-rooted craft traditions. Here is a breakdown of what to expect during your visit.
A historic center with authentic character
The heart of Hoi An is its historic district, a grid of narrow streets lined with buildings showing blended Chinese, Japanese, and French influences. Walking through the Old Town, you will see 18th-century wooden merchant houses still standing. Among the most recognizable sites is the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 16th century, which serves as a symbol of the city. The Fujian Assembly Hall is also worth a stop for its ornate, detailed architecture.
At night, the city lights up with colorful lanterns that create a distinct atmosphere. These lanterns are iconic to Hoi An, and you can learn about how they are crafted by visiting local artisan workshops.
Renowned local cuisine
Hoi An is a prime destination for fans of Vietnamese food. Among the local specialties, be sure to try cao lầu, a noodle dish with pork, crunchy greens, and broth, or white roses, which are delicate steamed shrimp dumplings.
To get more hands-on, several cooking classes are available. These are often paired with a tour of local markets, such as the main Hoi An market, where you can see the fresh produce and regional spices used in the cooking.
Activities around Hoi An
Hoi An is more than just its historic core. A few miles from the city, you will find the Cửa Đại beach and An Bàng beach. While the first is known for its quiet vibe, the second is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and small seafood restaurants.
For a look at local history, head to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Hoi An. These ruins of Cham temples provide a window into the region's cultural history between the 4th and 13th centuries.
For a more immersive experience, the surrounding villages, such as Tra Que, are famous for their vegetable gardens. They offer a chance to see the daily life of residents and traditional agricultural techniques.
Practical tips for your stay
The city center is pedestrian-friendly, so pack comfortable walking shoes. If you want to avoid the crowds, explore the smaller side streets, which are just as charming. Take the time to talk to the residents, who are known for their hospitality, and enjoy the atmosphere of a place where life moves at a slower pace.
Hoi An offers a balance of heritage, nature, and activities for those looking for culture and quiet. It is an ideal spot to see a different side of Vietnam, away from the scale of the major metropolitan areas.
When to go
The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is mild and dry, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. Beyond the favorable weather, the lantern festival, held each month during the full moon, is a cultural event that illuminates the Old Town with a unique glow.
How to get there
To reach Hoi An, the nearest international airport is in Da Nang, located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. From Da Nang, you can reach Hoi An by taxi, private car, or bus, with the trip taking about 45 minutes.
If you are traveling from Hue or other cities in Central Vietnam, trains and buses also serve Da Nang, from where you can easily complete the final leg of your journey to Hoi An.
Far from the hustle of Hanoi, Hoi An offers a calmer setting with its small streets relatively spared by motorbikes, its pretty river, its charming port, and its traditional boats. At night, the glow of the lanterns, which are everywhere in the streets, and the night market make the city magnificent and very lively.
You will find beautiful souvenirs there, especially the famous lanterns. Do some research on the few authentic artisans who work by hand to avoid the tourist traps, though.
The downsides are a few street vendors who are a bit pushy and want you to buy everything, and a crowd of tourists starting in the late afternoon. To visit the city peacefully, aim for the morning.