Hoi An city tour 1 day – 5 itineraries for culture, food, and relaxation
Spending just one day in Hoi An can still be an unforgettable experience if you plan it well. This charming ancient town is compact, easy to explore, and full of cultural treasures, delicious food, and scenic photo spots. Whether you want to dive into history, taste every local specialty, or enjoy a slow, relaxing day, there’s an itinerary that fits your style. In this guide, we’ve crafted 5 Hoi An City Tour 1 day plans to help you make the most of every hour.
Why should you spend at least one full day in Hoi An?
Hoi An may be small, but it is packed with fascinating things to discover – so much that a quick visit of just a few hours would never be enough. From centuries-old houses, Chinese assembly halls, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge to traditional craft villages – every corner is worth pausing for. Only by spending a full day here can you stroll leisurely through the streets and truly hear the stories of this once-bustling trading port.

In the morning, you can wander the quiet ancient town before the crowds arrive, admire the moss-covered rooftops, and visit museums, assembly halls, and old merchant houses. By noon, take your time to savor Hoi An’s signature dishes: cao lau noodles, mi Quang, chicken rice, or a sweet bowl of corn dessert. The afternoon is perfect for a bicycle ride to Tra Que vegetable village, a stop at Thanh Ha pottery village, or joining a lantern-making workshop.
Evening is when Hoi An shines its brightest. The streets glow with colorful lanterns, the Thu Bon River is dotted with floating candles, and you can enjoy traditional Bai Choi folk singing or take a boat ride under the moonlight. This magical atmosphere is the very soul of Hoi An – something you would completely miss if you leave too early.
Spending a full day in Hoi An allows you to experience all four rhythms: the peaceful morning, the flavorful afternoon, the colorful village life, and the dazzling evening lights. Only then can you truly slow down and feel the unique charm of Hoi An.
Read more: Hoi An city tour – A journey to authentic cultural experiences
Guide to visiting Hoi An
Hoi An is an easy destination to reach and explore, but to have a truly fulfilling trip, it’s important to know a few basics before you go.
How to get to Hoi An
Hoi An does not have its own airport or train station, so you’ll need to travel to Da Nang first – the nearest transport hub, located about 30 km away.
- From major cities in Vietnam:
If you’re flying from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other large cities, book a flight to Da Nang International Airport. From there, it only takes 40 – 45 minutes to reach Hoi An.
Getting to Hoi An is even easier when you are in Hue or Danang. You can take a bus, limousine, or hire a private car, a taxi or ride-hailing service. The route over the Hai Van Pass is stunning, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy scenic views during the journey.

Planning transportation ahead is a tip to make your trip more convenient. If you want a completely stress-free experience, book the transportation service or free shuttle bus provided by Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness. Their private transfers and scheduled shuttles take you directly from Da Nang Airport or city center to the resort and Hoi An Ancient Town with comfort and ease – no haggling, no waiting.
- From other countries:
You can fly directly to Da Nang from several major cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, or Tokyo, then continue your journey to Hoi An using one of the options above.
Best time to visit
Hoi An is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is from February to April, when the weather is cool and dry. From May to August, the days are sunnier, making it a great time to combine your trip with a beach holiday. If you visit during the full moon (on the 14th day of the lunar month), you can experience Lantern Festival Night, when all electric lights are turned off, and the entire town glows with colorful lanterns – a truly magical sight.
Getting around the Ancient Town
- Walking: The best way to explore Hoi An since most main streets in the old town are pedestrian-only.
- Cycling: Rent a bicycle from your hotel or rental shops (about 40,000–50,000 VND/day) to visit nearby spots like Tra Que Vegetable Village or Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
- Cyclo ride: A fun and relaxing way to see the town while taking photos. Expect to pay about 150,000 VND/hour.
- Boat ride on the Hoai River: In the evening, take a small boat ride to see the town from the water and release paper lanterns. Prices range from 100,000–150,000 VND per trip for two people.
5 perfect Hoi An City Tour itineraries for one day
If you only have one day in Hoi An, choosing the right itinerary can make all the difference. Whether you love history, crave local flavors, enjoy taking photos, or simply want to relax, there’s a perfect plan for you. Below are five curated suggestions for a full-day Hoi An City Tour, including the signature tour by Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, to help you compare and pick the one that fits your style.
Hoi An city tour – Experience the Ancient Town with Bliss Hoi An zf m
If you only have half a day but still want to soak up the soul of Hoi An, the Hoi An City Tour by Bliss Hoi An is the perfect choice. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to be compact yet fulfilling, allowing you to enjoy the slow rhythm, rich culture, and stunning architecture of the ancient town.

You can choose between two departure times: morning 08:00 or afternoon 13:30, perfect whether you’re an early riser or prefer a laid-back start to the day.
Explore the icons of Hoi An
Your journey begins with a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets, stopping at the town’s most iconic landmarks:
- Kwan Temple (Quang Trieu Assembly Hall): learn about the Chinese community that once thrived in Hoi An.
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: admire its vibrant architecture and the altar of Thien Hau – the goddess of the sea.
- Tan Ky Old House: a 200-year-old merchant’s house showcasing a fascinating blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles.
- Japanese Covered Bridge: Hoi An’s most famous landmark and a must-visit photo spot.
- Hoi An Historic & Cultural Museum: gain deeper insight into the evolution of this once-bustling trading port.
Hands-on craft workshop
One of the highlights of the tour is visiting a traditional handicraft workshop. Watch skilled artisans at work and even try making your own small souvenir to take home – a memorable way to connect with Hoi An’s heritage.
Return to the resort: After about 4 – 5 hours of exploration, you’ll be comfortably driven back to Bliss Hoi An. It’s the perfect time to unwind, watch the sunset by the beach, or enjoy a romantic dinner to wrap up a truly fulfilling day.
Tour information
- Price: 920,000++ VND per person (minimum 2 participants)
- Children: free for under 6, 50% of adult price for ages 6–11
- Includes: round-trip transfer, entrance tickets, tour guide, bottled water
This tour not only saves you time but also ensures you don’t miss any of Hoi An’s highlights. Book in advance to secure your spot and experience Hoi An in the most complete way possible!
Classic old town tour – For architecture & history lovers
If this is your first time in Hoi An, this itinerary will let you soak in the town’s soul – from its ancient architecture and cultural landmarks to its signature local flavors.
- Best for: First-time visitors, culture & history enthusiasts
- Duration: 08:00 – 21:00 (about 10 – 12 hours)
- Estimated budget: 25 – 35 USD/person (Old Town ticket, meals, boat ride)
Detailed itinerary
- 08:00 – 09:00 | Breakfast & Morning Energy
Kick off your day with Banh Mi Phuong or Madam Khanh – Hoi An’s most famous bánh mì stalls (about 1.5 – 2 USD each).

Grab a coffee or fresh juice to start the morning refreshed and ready to explore.
- 09:00 – 11:30 | Discover the Old Town & Its Architecture
Buy the Hoi An Old Town ticket (approx. 5 USD) – it includes entry to 5 heritage sites.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the town’s iconic symbol.
Explore Fujian Assembly Hall, a colorful Chinese community hall with intricate woodwork.
Step into Tan Ky Ancient House, a beautiful mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architecture.
Stop by the Museum of Trade Ceramics to learn about Hoi An’s past as a bustling trading port.
- 11:30 – 13:30 | Lunch & Midday Break
Try Cao Lau or Hoi An chicken rice at Ba Buoi or Trung Bac restaurants (2 – 3 USD/serving).
Take a break at a riverside café, enjoy a slow coffee, and watch daily life in the Old Town.
- 13:30 – 16:30 | Afternoon Strolls & Craft Villages
Wander through lantern-lined alleys and capture some beautiful photos.
Browse local craft shops or take a short trip to Thanh Ha Pottery Village (entry fee about 1.5 USD).

Join a quick lantern-making or pottery workshop to create your own keepsake.
- 17:00 – 21:00 | Hoi An by Night
Enjoy dinner at the night market with local favorites like grilled skewers, sweet soups, or tofu pudding (about 1.5 – 2 USD/dish).
Take a boat ride on the Hoai River and release a flower lantern for good luck (4 – 6 USD/boat for 2 people).
Watch Bai Choi folk performances or other live cultural shows before wrapping up your day.
Food & Experience tour
If you’re a real foodie, this itinerary takes you on a flavorful journey through Hoi An, from a crunchy breakfast to a vibrant night market feast.

Tour information:
- Best for: Couples, young travelers, food lovers
- Duration: 08:00 – 21:00 (about 10 – 12 hours)
- Estimated budget: 30 – 40 USD/person (food + cooking class + snacks)
Detailed itinerary:
- 08:00 – 09:00 | Breakfast & Wake Up Your Taste Buds
Start your day with a Hoi An-style Banh Mi (Banh Mi Phuong or Madam Khanh) paired with a refreshing coconut coffee.
Enjoy the peaceful morning vibe as the Old Town slowly comes to life.
- 09:00 – 11:00 | Quick sightseeing & Morning bites
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and one ancient house for a quick cultural touch.
Stop at small eateries to taste banh beo (steamed rice cakes), fried wontons, or white rose dumplings – iconic Hoi An bites.
- 11:00 – 14:00 | Cooking class & lunch
Head to Tra Que Vegetable Village or a homestay in the Old Town for a 3-hour cooking class.
Learn how to make local favorites like Cao Lau, spring rolls, or sizzling pancakes – and enjoy the dishes you cooked for lunch.
- 14:00 – 16:30 | Afternoon Stroll & Sweet Treats
Ride a bicycle or take a slow walk through lantern-filled alleys.
Stop by Hoi An Market for a little shopping and refresh with corn sweet soup (che bap) or Mot herbal tea.
- 17:30 – 21:00 | Mini Food Tour & Night Market Fun
Dive into the lively Hoi An Night Market, a true paradise for food lovers.
Taste everything you can: cao lau, mi quang, grilled skewers, mango cakes, and finish off with an ice-cold beer.
Stroll under the glowing lanterns and take night photos before ending your delicious day.
Want to make your trip even more memorable?
Join a Hoi An cooking class at Tra Que village and learn how to prepare local specialties like cao lau, spring rolls, and banh xeo right where they were born. Or, if you’d rather just eat, hop on a Hoi An – street food tour and let a local guide lead you to the town’s hidden culinary gems.

Book now with Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness to secure your spot – spaces for cooking classes and guided food tours are limited, especially during weekends and holidays.
A full-day photo adventure for creatives and trendsetters
Hoi An is a dream for photo lovers. This tour lets you capture sunrise moments, explore charming alleys, make your own lantern, and end the night with riverside cocktails – a perfect day for anyone who loves beautiful scenes and stylish experiences.
Tour information:
- Best for: Gen Z travelers, content creators, photo enthusiasts
- Duration: 08:00 – 21:00 (about 10 – 12 hours)
- Estimated budget: 25 – 35 USD/person (coffee, lunch, lantern workshop, drinks)
Detailed itinerary:
- Morning (6:30 AM – 11:00 AM)
Sunrise Café Experience: Start your day at a scenic rooftop or riverside café. Capture the magical sunrise over the Thu Bon River.
For the best sunrise view, head to the Sea View Rooftop Bar at Bliss Hoi An, sip your morning coffee while watching the sun slowly rise over the ocean.
Old town photo walk: Stroll through Hoi An’s charming alleys, shoot at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and snap some hidden corners with ancient yellow-walled houses as your backdrop.
- Midday (11:30 AM – 1:30 PM)
Local lunch: Enjoy the famous Hoi An chicken rice (com ga) at a local favorite spot.
Lantern-making workshop: Visit a traditional lantern workshop where you can craft your own mini lantern to take home – a colorful souvenir that’s very unforgettable.

- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
Art gallery stop: Explore an art exhibition or a local gallery featuring Vietnamese contemporary art.
- Evening (6:00 PM – 9:30 PM)
Hoi An night market: Wander through the lively night market, taste a few street snacks, and capture the dazzling lantern-lit streets.
Lantern boat experience: Release a paper lantern on the river and film a dreamy reel or TikTok moment.
Riverside bar: End your day with a cocktail at a chic riverside bar. Cham Beach Bar of Bliss Hoi An is also a good choice.
Relaxation & wellness tour
If you only have one day in Hoi An and want to fully soak in its tranquility, turn your visit into a slow-paced journey – a day dedicated to recharging your body and mind. This itinerary is perfect for couples, seniors, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape from a busy schedule.
Tour information:
- Best for: Couples, seniors, business travelers with one free day, wellness lovers
- Duration: 08:00 – 21:00 (approx. 10–12 hours)
- Estimated budget: 50 – 70 USD/person (spa session + meals + boat ride)
Detailed itinerary:
- Morning (08:00 – 11:00)
Start your day with a light breakfast – perhaps a local banh mi or a bowl of noodles at a quiet street-side eatery.
Take a slow morning stroll through the Ancient Town while it’s still calm, enjoying the fresh air and quiet alleys.
Head to Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness for a morning Ngoc Linh spa session – choose a full-body relaxation massage or a soothing herbal foot massage. The serene setting and calming aroma will ease you into a balanced state of mind for the rest of the day.

- Midday (11:30 – 13:30)
Enjoy a beachfront lunch at Binh Minh restaurant with Hoi An specialties such as cao lau, chicken rice, or grilled fish in banana leaf.
Take a mid-day rest back at Bliss Hoi An, either lounging by the swimming pool or simply listening to the gentle sound of the waves.
- Afternoon (14:00 – 17:00)
Visit a few of Hoi An’s iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge or the Fujian Assembly Hall.
Shop for handcrafted souvenirs or unique local products in the Ancient Town.
Stop by a quiet café and sip on Hoi An’s famous herbal drink “Mot” while people-watching.
- Evening (18:00 – 21:00)
Take a boat ride on the Hoai River as the lanterns light up the night, and release a floating lantern for good luck.
End the day with a fine-dining dinner in the Ancient Town or head back to Bliss Hoi An for a romantic seaside dinner – the ocean breeze makes it an unforgettable experience.
Take a look at the summary table of experiences below. It helps you easily compare time, cost, and activity types, then choose which one suits you most.
Tour Option | Best For | Duration | Highlights | Estimated Budget |
Bliss Hoi An City Tour | Guests staying at Bliss Hoi An, travelers who want a well-planned, hassle-free experience | 4 – 5 hours (Half-day tour) | Hotel pick-up & drop-off, guided Ancient Town tour, visit Japanese Covered Bridge, old houses, free time for shopping, lantern-lit boat ride, dinner included | 55 – 65 USD/person (includes transportation, entrance tickets, boat ride, dinner) |
Classic Ancient Town Tour | First-time visitors, culture & history lovers, families | 08:00 – 21:00 (10–12 hrs) | Japanese Covered Bridge, old houses, museums, lantern streets, night boat ride | 20 – 30 USD/person (entrance ticket + meals) |
Foodie & Culinary Experience Tour | Couples, young travelers, foodies | 08:00 – 21:00 (10–12 hrs) | Street food tasting, cooking class at Tra Que village, Hoi An Market, night food tour | 30 – 40 USD/person (food + cooking class + snacks) |
Art & Lifestyle Tour – Perfect for Photo Lovers | Gen Z, influencers, content creators, solo travelers | 08:00 – 21:00 (10–12 hrs) | Sunrise coffee, photo walk, lantern-making workshop, art gallery visit, night market stroll | 25 – 40 USD/person (coffee + workshop + drinks) |
Relaxation & Wellness Tour | Couples, seniors, business travelers, wellness lovers | 08:00 – 21:00 (10–12 hrs) | Spa & massage session at Bliss Hoi An, riverside lunch, light sightseeing, boat ride, fine dining dinner | 50 – 70 USD/person (spa session + meals + boat ride) |
Hoi An travel tips
If you want to experience Hoi An to the fullest without missing any highlights, planning a smart itinerary is essential. Hoi An may be small, but it is packed with fascinating activities – from strolling through the Ancient Town and visiting markets to exploring assembly halls and enjoying local food tours.

How to plan the perfect itinerary
- Smart itinerary planning
Group your visits by area: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town in one morning or afternoon. Key attractions like the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, and assembly halls are all within walking distance. One entrance ticket gives you access to multiple sites, making it easy to stroll around without backtracking.
Dedicate a half-day to craft villages: If you plan to visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village or Tra Que Vegetable Village, combine them into the same morning or afternoon to save travel time.
Book tickets in advance: Reserve spots for cooking classes, lantern release experiences, or sunset photography tours online. This helps you avoid long queues and secure your place during peak travel season.
- Optimize your travel time
Walk in the Ancient Town: Motorbikes and cars are restricted inside the Old Town. Staying at a hotel nearby or renting a bicycle makes getting around easy and enjoyable.
Avoid peak hours: The Old Town is most crowded in the late afternoon. If you want photos without crowds, visit between 7:00 and 9:00 AM for the best lighting and peaceful atmosphere.
What to do when it rains
Rain in Hoi An doesn’t have to ruin your trip – it actually makes the Ancient Town even more charming. Cozy up in a café with a beautiful view and watch the rain fall, or spend your time visiting museums and ancient houses with wide, sheltered spaces. Indoor activities such as lantern-making workshops, pottery classes, or cooking classes are perfect for rainy days, letting you stay dry while still making the most of your time.
Pro tips for a smooth trip
Always carry a lightweight raincoat or small umbrella, especially if you’re traveling between September and December. Check the weather forecast in advance and keep your schedule flexible in case you need to reschedule outdoor activities. Booking tickets and guided tours (like city tours or street food tours) ahead of time helps you save waiting time and ensures you can make the most of your day in Hoi An.
Read more: Top 5 must-see Hoi An Show experiences for tourists
Hoi An is the kind of place where every corner tells a story, every meal feels like a discovery, and every moment can turn into a memory. By choosing the right one-day itinerary, you can see the town from the angle that speaks to you most. If you want a seamless, worry-free experience, consider joining the Hoi An City Tour 1 day by Bliss Hoi An, where transportation, guides, and unique activities are arranged for you. Whatever you choose, your one day in Hoi An will be full of charm, flavors, and inspiration.