Overview
Hội An, Vietnam's UNESCO-listed gem, combines historic heritage, colourful lanterns and bohemian atmosphere. This comprehensive 2026 guide reveals the must-sees, from temples to beaches, along with the best restaurants and accommodations. Budget, itineraries and local tips included for a stress-free stay.
**Why visit Hội An?**
- **Unique heritage**: Old town listed as UNESCO World Heritage, iconic Japanese Bridge and traditional wooden houses.
- **Exceptional gastronomy**: Local specialities like Cao Lầu or wontons, and trendy cafes in picturesque alleys.
- **Authentic atmosphere**: Lanterns at night, night markets and traditional tailoring workshops.
- **Close to beaches**: An Bang and Cua Dai just 5 minutes by bike.
- **Ideal base** for exploring central Vietnam (Đà Nẵng, Huế, My Sơn).
This guide is designed to help you plan your 2 to 5-day trip with optimised itineraries, detailed budgets and tips to avoid tourist traps.
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).
Map — hotels & activities
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Free map · OpenStreetMap · partner links
Where to stay
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Accommodation · Hội An
Anantara Hoi An Resort
Luxe au bord de la rivière Thu Bồn.
Accommodation · Hội An
Hoi An Ancient House Village
Charme traditionnel, piscine.
Accommodation · Hội An
Tribee Cham Hostel
Auberge conviviale, proche vieille ville.
Activities & tours
Book · Hội An
Cours de cuisine half-day
Marché + 4 plats à préparer.
Book · Hội An
Balade en corbeille au coucher du soleil
Rivière Thu Bồn, lanternes.
Book · Hội An
Excursion My Sơn
Transport + guide francophone.
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).
Frequently asked questions
Where is Hoi An in Vietnam?
Hoi An is on the central coast in Quảng Nam province, about 30 minutes from Đà Nẵng. It is not near Hanoi — it is central Vietnam.
When is the Hoi An lantern festival?
The Old Town lights up especially on full-moon nights (lunar calendar). Our events calendar lists 2026–2027 dates.
Where to visit in Hoi An?
Old Town, An Hoi islet, An Bang beach, lantern workshops, and optionally My Son as a half-day trip from Hoi An.
How long in Hoi An?
Two nights minimum, three with the beach and My Son. A 10-day itinerary almost always stops here after Huế / Đà Nẵng.
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