Guide Hội An — Vietnam travel

Overview

Top things to do in Hội An

• Explore Hội An's Old Town (UNESCO-listed) Discover the 1,100 historic wooden buildings, Chinese temples, traditional houses and the famous Japanese Bridge. Don't miss the Tan Ky House (17th century) and the Sa Huynh Culture Museum.
• Boat ride on the Thu Bồn River Embark on a sunset cruise (1 hour, ~150,000 VND/person) to admire the lanterns and illuminated architecture. Opt for a private boat (200,000-300,000 VND) for more flexibility.
• Taste local specialities Try Cao Lầu (local noodles), wontons, bánh mì and fresh seafood. Recommended addresses: Thanh Cao Lầu (Tran Phu Street), Bánh Mì Phượng (Nguyen Thai Hoc Street), or the central market for an authentic street food experience.
• Visit An Bang and Cua Dai beaches Just 5 km from the centre, these sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing. An Bang is more lively (bars, restaurants), while Cua Dai is wilder. Beach chair rental: 50,000-100,000 VND.
• Discover the Thanh Hà pottery village 3 km from Hội An, this historic village has been producing pottery since the 16th century. Workshops open 8 am-5 pm, free entry. Allow 1 hour for your visit.
• Attend a traditional tailoring workshop Some shops offer classes to make custom clothes (shirts, dresses) in 2-3 hours. Price: 300,000-500,000 VND. Ideal for a unique souvenir.
• Explore Cua Dai Bay's islands Boat excursions to the islands (e.g., Cu Lao Cham) for snorkelling and diving. Departure from Cua Dai port, duration: 4-6 hours. Price: 500,000-800,000 VND/person.
• Stroll through Hội An's Central Market Open from 6 am to 10 pm, this bustling market offers fruits, vegetables, spices and souvenirs. Ideal for buying lanterns or local coffee. Avoid peak hours (11 am-2 pm).
• Discover the Phuc Kien Temple 17th-century Chinese temple dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau. Typical architecture with dragons and red lanterns. Entry: 20,000 VND.
• Visit the My Sơn sanctuary (Cham ruins) UNESCO-listed archaeological site 40 km from Hội An. Guided tour recommended (2 hours, ~300,000 VND). Allow half a day (early morning departure).

Where to stay

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Activities & tours

Practical tips

• Avoid restaurants near the Japanese Bridge during peak hours (11 am-2 pm): opt for local addresses 500m from the centre.
• Prefer early morning visits (7 am-9 am) to enjoy sites without crowds, especially for the central market and temples.
• Rent a bike (50,000-70,000 VND/day) to explore An Bang and Cua Dai beaches or pottery villages up to 10 km from the centre.
• For photos, head to the Japanese Bridge at dusk for shots with lit lanterns.
• Negotiate prices for souvenirs (lanterns, clothing) in shops away from tourist hotspots (Tran Phu Street).