Hoi An is Vietnam’s most enchanting town, and probably the one you have already seen around in Social Media. You might want to stay there for a long time, but if you only have one weekend, I have you covered with this guide!
Some of the links might have affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you book through then, with no extra cost for you.
Where to stay
Best Price per Value: Green Tea Villa
For a Nature Scape: Lamer Coastal Villa
Best for Socializing: Mad Monkey Hoi An
Day 1
Morning
Old Town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you will want to get lost into its maze-like tiny alleys. Start early to beat the crowds (and avoid the heat, depending on the time of the year).
You can just stroll around and capture this super photogenic place, but I recommend you also visit the historical sites. You just need to buy one ticket for 120,000 dong (~4.6 usd) and you get access to visit up to 5 sites, plus a cultural performance at the Museum of Folklore. The ticket is valid for three days, so you can take your time.
The attractions include Assembly halls, ancient houses, museums, a temple, and the famous Japanese Bridge. The ancient houses are well-preserved houses from merchants from the 18-th century, so you can imagine what would it be like to live at that time. The Assembly Halls were built by Chinese immigrants as a place to socialize and conduct business.
My suggestion is that you pick two assembly halls (they are very beautiful), one ancient house, the temple, and a museum.
Here are my favorite sites from the list:
- Japanese Covered Bridge – The iconic symbol of Hoi An. Important: you don’t have to pay to cross it, only to check the small museum.
- Quân Thắng Old House – you might meet the current family member making dumplings in the kitchen, and they are very welcoming!
- Tan Ky Old House
- Phúc Kiến Assembly Hall
- Quang Trieu Assembly Hall
- Quan Công Temple
- Museum of Trade Ceramics (in a well-preserved ancient house, so it will be worthy two visits)
- Museum of Folklore
If you want to learn more about the history, take a guided tour (it is so affordable!)
Tailor Visit
You will notice several tailor stores around the old city. They work at an impressive rate and can make a piece in 24 hours! (Although I would plan one extra day for safety). It can be an extenuating journey, but it is how many families make their way of living. They usually will offer pre-determined patterns, as it is simpler to make in such a short amount of time, although you can also try to bring your designs. Prices range from 30 to 50 usd. It’s opportunity to bring an unique souvenir from your trip!
You will also see leather workshops making unique shoes and bags. I try not to buy leather myself (I am vegetarian), but I confess the uniqueness of their designs made me tempted!
Other recommendations in the Old town (with free entrance):
Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
A small gallery, with photographs by the French photographer Réhahn. They depict several tribes from Vietnam, and also exhibit original costumes.
Pháp Bao Buddhist Temple
This Buddhist Temple is even more beautiful during the Tet season, with lost of flowers decorating the front yard.
Chinese Assembly Hall of Hoi An
Another beautiful Assembly Hall, but this one is free to visit.
Afternoon
Run away from the crowds of from the heat by taking a unique workshop in Hoi An.
Vietnamese Coffee Class (2-4 PM)
Learn how to make 5 types of coffee you will find all around Vietnam (including the iconic egg coffee), and learn the history behind them. Hint: please don’t drink any of the coffees to the end, it will be a lot of caffeine.
Lantern Making Workshop (4:30–6:30 PM)
Learn how to make a silk lantern, just like the ones you will see all around the town. It is such a mindful activity, you will feel relaxed and present! And, in the end, will bring a beautiful lantern home with you.
Evening
Have dinner in a cozy place in the old town, then go for a Lantern Boat Ride after 8pm.
You can just head to An Hoi Pier, hop on a boat (150,000–250,000 VND), and float with glowing lanterns. You will probably receive a lot of offers from operators once there. If you prefer, you can book a tour in advance to avoid having to negotiate or wait in line (it’s about the same price).
If you are not into sailing, just watching them will also make it for a magical moment. Once a month, on the fifteenth day of the month in the Chinese calendar, during the full moon, all the lights of the town are turned off and the views are even more magical.
Day 2
Today you will take some time to relax in nature and observe the beautiful life in Vietnam’s countryside.
Obs: if you went to the Tailor, find a time to go back and check your piece!
Morning
🚣 Coconut Boat ride (8:30 – start early to avoid the heat)
The coconut boats are traditionally used by fishermen in Vietnam, and you can experience it while sailing through palm forests. The round shape of these cute boats allow some skilled fishermen to rotate them super fast, just like in the playground when you were a kid, but in the middle of the river – you can join it by paying an extra 100k dong (in my experience).
Some tours also offer a cooking class combined.
Relax at the An Bang Beach (11 AM–2 PM)
Take some time to enjoy the calm beach of Hoi An and relax!
Late Afternoon: Rice Fields at Sunset
Tra Que Vegetable Village or Cycling to Cam Thanh (5–6 PM)
Finish your day with a walk around the rice fields. You will spot some buffalos, and the beautiful sunset glow.
Evening: Riverside Dinner
Stroll around the riverside area, to the left of the oldtown. You will find a way more chill region, with tons of restaurants by the river to enjoy a magical night watching the lanterns floating.
Day Trips
With more time and based in Hoi An, don’t miss the chance to check these gateways from Hoi An:
Cham Islands
If you need a nature gateway, the Cham Islands are the best destination. You can join a speedboat that will take you to snorkel and visits in the island. Although it sounds touristic, in my experience it still felt super local and chill.
My Son Sanctuary
About one hour away from Hoi An, My Son is an ancient sanctuary perfect for the history lovers.
Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains is an impressive set of temples built inside caves. It is an unique experience and one of the ones you should not skip. Half way between Da Nang and Hoi An, you can also take the opportunity to visit the city and the Lady Buddha, with amazing views from the city.
Bach Ma National park
This one is a bit farther and closer to Da Nang, but you can also visit if you are based in Hoi An. The 5-lake hike is my favorite from all time, with a set of unique crystal-blue waterfalls – so I believe it is worth it!
Bonus: Unusual Tours for the Curious
If you have extra time, take a look at these unique Hoi An experiences (none is affiliate):
Hoi An Hidden Gems for Early Risers
Wake up extra early to visit a local noodle factory, fish farms, among other spots of authentic culture only this local guide can give you access to!
Hoi An Off the Map – Free Walking Tour
Discover local stories hidden in the buildings of Hoi An. Obs.: the tour is free, but a tip is expected.
Final Tips for Your Hoi An Trip
✔ Best Time to Visit? Jan-Feb – cooler and probably raining, but it’s Tet time and the flowers are in full bloom; or Mar-Sep for less rain (but potentially high heat).
✔ Getting Around? Rent a bike (~50,000 VND/day) or use Grab.
✔ Must-Eat Dishes: Cao lầu is the typical dish of Hoi An, also available in vegetarian options.
I hope you enjoy your time in Hoi An! Let me know if these suggestions were useful!