Hoi An, Vietnam Travel Guide

Discover the enchanting town of Hoi An, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly in Vietnam's most charming destination.

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a picturesque town in central Vietnam. Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, Hoi An offers a unique glimpse into the past with its blend of different cultures and architectural styles. Wander through narrow streets lined with centuries-old wooden houses, Chinese temples, and Japanese bridges. The town's quaint beauty and serene ambiance make it a perfect spot for anyone looking to experience Vietnam's rich history and culture. Hoi An is famous for its lantern-lit streets and vibrant night markets. As the sun sets, the town transforms into a magical wonderland with colorful lanterns illuminating the pathways. The night market is a great place to sample local delicacies, shop for handmade crafts, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Don't miss the chance to release a lantern on the Thu Bon River for good luck. The surrounding countryside is just as charming. Rent a bicycle and explore the lush green rice paddies, visit traditional villages, or take a boat trip to the nearby Cham Islands. Hoi An's culinary scene is also a highlight, with cooking classes and restaurants offering delicious local dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose Dumplings. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to relax, Hoi An has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hoi An.

Visit the Ancient Town early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk.
Bring cash, as many local shops and eateries do not accept credit cards.
Try the local street food, especially the Banh Mi sandwiches and fresh spring rolls.
Rent a bicycle to explore the countryside and nearby beaches.
Attend a traditional lantern-making workshop to create a unique souvenir.
Don't miss the Full Moon Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month.

Neighbourhoods in Hoi An

An Bang Beach

Hoi An Ancient Town

Cam Thanh Village

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Hoi An

Explore Hoi An: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Hoi An

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The Marble Mountains

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Hội An Night Market

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Ba Na Hills

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Hội An Night Market

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Chùa Cầu Phố cổ Hội An

Discover the enchanting Chùa Cầu, a historical bridge in Hoi An, Vietnam, where culture, history, and scenic beauty intertwine.

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Chùa Cầu

Discover the iconic Chùa Cầu in Hoi An, a beautifully designed Japanese Covered Bridge that encapsulates the rich history and vibrant culture of Vietnam.

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Hoi An Market

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Restaurant & Cafe Tuấn Rich Flavor of Hoi An Vietnamese Familly Restaurant

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Nhan's kitchen

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MIX Greek Restaurant Hoi An

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Firefly Hoi An | Restaurant & Bar

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Hair of the dog bar Hoi An

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Soul Kitchen

Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Soul Kitchen, a lively bar and restaurant in the heart of Hội An, perfect for food lovers and music enthusiasts alike.

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The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An

Experience the best of Irish hospitality and local flavor at The Shamrock Irish Pub in Hoi An, Vietnam.

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Why Not Club Bar Hoi An

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Hội An Night Market

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Hair of the dog bar Hoi An

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Why Not Club Bar Hoi An

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Market Bar - Market Terrace

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Best shops in Hoi An

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Han Market

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Hội An Night Market

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Hoi An Market

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Bac My An Market

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Explore Hoi An on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hoi An, mapped for you.

Hoi An Essentials

Hoi An is located in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam. The nearest international airport is Da Nang International Airport, about 30 kilometers away. From Da Nang, you can take a taxi, private transfer, or shuttle bus to Hoi An, which typically takes around 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train to Da Nang Railway Station and then a taxi or bus to Hoi An.
Hoi An is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking or cycling distance. Bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly way to get around, and many hotels offer bike rentals. Motorbikes and scooters are also available for rent, but be cautious if you are not experienced in riding. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are available for longer distances. For a unique experience, try a ride on a traditional cyclo.
The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Hoi An, but it is advisable to carry cash for small purchases and in local markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Currency exchange services can be found at banks, exchange counters, and major hotels.
Hoi An is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas and markets. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Areas such as the Old Town are safe, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items.
In case of emergency, dial 113 for police, 114 for fire, and 115 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is Hoi An Hospital, located within the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout Hoi An for minor health issues. Keep a list of emergency contact numbers handy, including your country's embassy or consulate.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and hat before entering temples and pagodas. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow or a nod. A friendly smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and street food. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful. Always use both hands when giving or receiving something.
To experience Hoi An like a local, visit the morning market to see the bustling activity and buy fresh produce or local delicacies. Engage with the locals, who are friendly and often willing to share stories about their city. Take part in a lantern-making workshop, a traditional craft of Hoi An. Don't miss the monthly Full Moon Festival, where the Old Town is illuminated by lanterns and filled with cultural activities. For a unique dining experience, try a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese dishes.

When is the best time to visit Hoi An?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hoi An

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hoi An. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloXin chào
  [sin chow]
- GoodbyeTạm biệt
  [tahm byet]
- YesCó
  [koh]
- NoKhông
  [kohng]
- Please/You're welcomeXin vui lòng
  [sin vwee long]
- Thank youCám ơn
  [kahm uhn]
- Excuse me/SorryXin lỗi
  [sin loy]
- How are you?Bạn khỏe không?
  [bahn kweh kohng]
- Fine. And you?Khỏe. Còn bạn?
  [kweh. kohn bahn]
- Do you speak English?Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?
  [bahn koh noy tee-eng ahng kohng]
- I don't understandTôi không hiểu
  [toy kohng hee-ehu]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTôi muốn xem thực đơn, vui lòng
  [toy moong sem tooc don, vwee long]
- I don't eat meatTôi không ăn thịt
  [toy kohng uhn teet]
- Cheers!Chúc sức khỏe!
  [chook sook kweh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseTôi muốn thanh toán, vui lòng
  [toy moong than toan, vwee long]
- Help!Giúp!
  [yoop]
- Go away!Đi đi!
  [dee dee]
- Call the Police!Gọi cảnh sát!
  [goy kahng saht]
- Call a doctor!Gọi bác sĩ!
  [goy bahk see]
- I'm lostTôi lạc đường
  [toy laht doong]
- I'm illTôi ốm
  [toy ohm]
- I'd like to buy...Tôi muốn mua...
  [toy moong moo-ah...]
- I'm just lookingTôi chỉ xem
  [toy chee sem]
- How much is it?Bao nhiêu tiền?
  [bah-oh nyew tee-ehn]
- That's too expensiveĐắt quá
  [daht kwah]
- Can you lower the price?Bạn có thể giảm giá không?
  [bahn koh te gi-ahm zah kohng]
- What time is it?Bây giờ là mấy giờ?
  [bahy zoh la may zoh]
- It's one o'clockBây giờ là một giờ
  [bahy zoh la mowt zoh]
- Half past (10)Mười giờ nửa
  [moo-ee zoh new-ah]
- MorningBuổi sáng
  [bwoy sahng]
- AfternoonBuổi chiều
  [bwoy chee-ew]
- EveningBuổi tối
  [bwoy toy]
- YesterdayHôm qua
  [hohm kwah]
- TodayHôm nay
  [hohm nigh]
- TomorrowNgày mai
  [nyigh mahy]
- 1Một
  [mowt]
- 2Hai
  [high]
- 3Ba
  [bah]
- 4Bốn
  [bohn]
- 5Năm
  [nahm]
- 6Sáu
  [s-ow]
- 7Bảy
  [bahy]
- 8Tám
  [tahm]
- 9Chín
  [cheen]
- 10Mười
  [moo-ee]
- Where's a/the...?Chỗ...ở đâu?
  [cho...uh doh?]
- What's the address?Địa chỉ là gì?
  [dee-ah chee la zee?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Bạn có thể chỉ cho tôi (trên bản đồ) không?
  [bahn koh te chee cho toy (tr-un bahn doh) kohng?]
- When's the next (bus)?Xe buýt tiếp theo khi nào?
  [say bwet tee-ehp tyoh khi now?]
- A ticket (to ....)Một vé (đi ....)
  [mowt vee (dee ....)]

History of Hoi An

Hoi An, originally known as Faifo, has its roots deeply embedded in the 15th century. It was established as a trading port by the Cham people, who were skilled seafarers and traders. The strategic location of Hoi An along the Thu Bon River made it a significant stop on the maritime Silk Road, facilitating trade between Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and even Europe.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Hoi An flourished as a major international trading port. The city saw an influx of merchants from Japan, China, Holland, India, and Portugal. This period marked the zenith of Hoi An's prosperity, with the town becoming a bustling hub of commerce. The Japanese and Chinese communities, in particular, left a lasting imprint on Hoi An's architecture and culture, evident in the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and various Chinese assembly halls.
Hoi An's prominence as a trading port began to wane in the late 18th century. The silting of the Thu Bon River made navigation increasingly difficult, and the rise of nearby Da Nang as a more accessible port further contributed to Hoi An's decline. By the 19th century, Hoi An had lost much of its importance as a center of trade.
Despite its decline as a trading port, Hoi An managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage. The city’s ancient architecture, traditional wooden houses, and narrow streets remained largely intact over the centuries. In 1999, UNESCO recognized Hoi An as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its unique blend of indigenous and foreign influences. This designation spurred efforts to preserve and restore the town’s historical sites, making Hoi An a significant cultural and tourist destination.
Hoi An is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals that reflect its diverse heritage. The Full Moon Festival, celebrated on the 14th day of each lunar month, sees the old town illuminated by colorful lanterns, traditional music performances, and food stalls. Additionally, the Hoi An Lantern Festival and the Tet Lunar New Year celebrations attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into the town's rich cultural tapestry.
In recent years, Hoi An has evolved into a popular tourist destination, known for its well-preserved ancient town, beautiful beaches, and culinary delights. Efforts to balance tourism with cultural preservation have been a focal point, ensuring that Hoi An maintains its historical charm while adapting to contemporary demands. The city's markets, tailor shops, and cafes continue to thrive, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

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