Perfect Hoi An itinerary for all travelers
Hoi An, a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Planning your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site can be difficult as there are many destinations to visit, but with the right itinerary, you can make the most of your time. In this guide, weβll help you plan the ideal Hoi An itinerary based on your travel preferences, from a quick 1-day visit to a more immersive 3-day experience.
About Hoi An
Hoi An. located in central Vietnam, approximately 30 kilometers south of Da Nang,Β is an attractive destination thanks to its timeless beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit on any journey through Vietnam. What makes Hoi An unique is the harmonious blend of local culture with influences from various other cultures, including Japan, China, and the West. The narrow streets, historic wooden houses, and temples rich in cultural heritage all contribute to the townβs distinctive character. Whether youβre walking through the ancient town or enjoying the peaceful riverside, Hoi An offers a memorable experience.
Before planning your trip to Hoi An, itβs important to know that the best time to visit is during the dry season, from February to August. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The rainy season, from September to January, may limit some activities, but it also represents the off-peak season, allowing you to enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere without the crowds. Although the weather may not always be perfect, Hoi An remains beautiful all year round.
In addition to its stunning architecture and landscapes, Hoi An is also known for its unique festivals, which attract many visitors each year. The Lantern Festival, held in the first month of the lunar calendar, is one of the most notable events. During this festival, the ancient town is illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. The Lunar New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan) is also a great time to explore traditional cultural activities, enjoy delicious local dishes, and immerse yourself in the lively festival spirit of the locals.
How many days should you spend in Hoi An?
The ideal length of stay in Hoi An largely depends on the type of experience you want to have. If you’re pressed for time or only looking to get a taste of what the town offers, one day is enough to cover the key attractions. On a one-day trip, you can visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, wander through the Ancient Town with its historical architecture, and sample some of Hoi An’s famous dishes like Cao LαΊ§u or Mi Quang. This will give you a glimpse of the townβs unique charm, though you may feel like you’re rushing through the experience.
However, for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Hoi An, two or three days is recommended. With two days, youβll have time to explore the main attractions at a leisurely pace while also venturing to nearby destinations like An Bang Beach, Tra Que Herb Village, or even the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site located nearby. You can also take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, visit local artisan shops, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the ancient town. A three-day stay allows you to dive deeper into the local culture.
Suggested Hoi An itinerary
Hoi An is a town that can be enjoyed in many ways, whether you have just one day or a few days to explore. Check out the itineraries below, each itinerary is designed to help you discover the charm and unique atmosphere of Hoi An.
1 day in Hoi An itinerary
In just one day, youβll uncover the highlights of Hoi An, from its ancient streets and historic landmarks to the serene beauty of its beaches.
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Start with a visit to the Ancient Town. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks.
- 9:00 AM: Walk through the Tan Ky Ancient House and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall to experience the history and architecture of Hoi An.
- 10:30 AM: Take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Street, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and stop by a local cafΓ© for a quick coffee.
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant. Try Cao Lau or White Rose Dumplings.
- 1:30 PM: Head to the Hoi An Central Market to shop for unique souvenirs and experience the lively atmosphere.
- 3:00 PM: Visit the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture to learn more about the townβs rich history.
Evening:
- 5:00 PM: Relax at An Bang Beach and enjoy the sunset by the sea.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at a riverside restaurant in the Ancient Town.
- 8:30 PM: End your day with a peaceful boat ride along the Thu Bon River, or take a walk through the lantern-lit streets.
Read more: North and Central Vietnam Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide
2 Days 1 Night in Hoi An Itinerary
This two-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, relaxing beach time, and hands-on experiences like cooking classes, making it ideal for those who want a deeper connection to Hoi An.
Day 1:
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Visit the Ancient Town, explore the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky Ancient House.
- 10:00 AM: Explore the Hoi An Central Market for local goods and snacks.
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and try some signature dishes like Mi Quang.
- 2:00 PM: Spend the afternoon relaxing at An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach.
- 4:30 PM: Wander through the Ancient Town again to experience the atmosphere as the lanterns light up the streets.
Evening:
- 6:30 PM: Dinner at a riverside restaurant.
- 8:00 PM: Witness the Hoi An Lantern Festival if your visit coincides with it, or take a quiet walk along the lantern-lit streets.
Day 2:
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Head to Tra Que Herb Village for a hands-on cooking class and learn how to make traditional Hoi An dishes.
- 11:00 AM: After the class, explore the herb village and enjoy the peaceful rural surroundings.
Afternoon:
- 12:30 PM: Lunch with dishes made from your class at Tra Que Herb Village.
- 2:00 PM: Take a half-day trip to My Son Sanctuary, an ancient Hindu temple complex about 45 minutes from Hoi An.
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Return to Hoi An for a relaxed dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying local specialties.
3 days 2 nights in Hoi An itinerary
A three-day stay lets you fully immerse yourself in the rich culture of Hoi An, with time to explore its historic charm, participate in local cooking classes, visit UNESCO sites, and unwind at the beach.
Day 1:
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Start by exploring the Ancient Town. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Ancient House, and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.
- 10:00 AM: Stroll through Nguyen Hue Street for local shopping.
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant, trying Cao LαΊ§u or other traditional dishes.
- 1:30 PM: Visit the Hoi An Museum to learn about the townβs history and culture.
- 3:00 PM: Spend the afternoon relaxing at An Bang Beach.
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a riverside restaurant.
- 7:30 PM: Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River, or simply enjoy the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town.
Day 2:
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Visit Tra Que Herb Village for a morning cooking class.
- 10:30 AM: Take a tour of the herb village, learning about organic farming methods.
Afternoon:
- 12:30 PM: Enjoy lunch made from the dishes you prepared in the cooking class.
- 2:00 PM: Head to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the ancient Hindu temples.
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Return to Hoi An and have dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Day 3:
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Take a scenic walk or bike ride around the peaceful countryside surrounding Hoi An.
- 10:30 AM: Visit a local tailor to get custom-made clothes, a specialty of Hoi An.
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
- 1:30 PM: Visit Hoi An Museum of History and Culture or take a final stroll through the Ancient Town.
Evening:
- 5:00 PM: Enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps a last stroll along the riverside or a visit to An Bang Beach before you depart.
Tips and important notes for traveling to Hoi An
When visiting Hoi An, there are a few essential tips to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.Β
First, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the streets in the Ancient Town are narrow and often cobblestone. Hoi An is known for its tailors, so if you plan to have clothes made, allow enough time for fittings and adjustments, typically 24 to 48 hours. Itβs also a good idea to bring light, breathable clothing as the weather can get hot, especially during the summer months.
Another important tip is to book your accommodations early, especially if youβre traveling during peak seasons like Tet (Lunar New Year) or the Lantern Festival, as these times can get crowded. While Hoi An is generally safe, itβs always a good idea to keep your valuables in a secure place and be mindful of your belongings while walking through busy areas.
Finally, donβt forget to bring some cash, as smaller shops and street vendors may not accept credit cards. And, of course, take time to enjoy the local cuisine, which is one of the highlights of visiting Hoi An.
Where to stay in Hoi An for an unforgettable experience?
Hoi An attracts millions of visitors every year, leading to the development of a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all types of travelers. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, the town offers something for everyone. One of the standout choices in Hoi An is Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, a tranquil escape for those seeking a blend of relaxation, luxury, and wellness.
Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is located just a short walk from the beautiful Binh Minh beach, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning ocean views. The resort features spacious rooms and villas designed with modern comforts and traditional Vietnamese elements, creating a perfect balance of style and relaxation.
Guests can indulge in various wellness treatments at the resortβs spa or enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool. The resort also offers a fully equipped fitness center, yoga sessions, and even meditation programs, ensuring a holistic experience for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate.
Dining at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is a treat, with a range of delicious local and international dishes served in the resort’s restaurants. For those who love beachside dining, thereβs also an outdoor bar that provides an ideal setting for enjoying sunset cocktails with ocean views.
Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or rejuvenate, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is an excellent choice for travelers looking for an upscale and holistic stay in Hoi An.
Read more: Central Vietnam itinerary 5 days: Must-visit destinationsΒ
FAQs about traveling to Hoi An
Planning a trip to Hoi An? To help you make the most of your visit, weβve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this charming town, to make sure that you are ready for an unforgettable experience in Hoi An.
- How do I get to Hoi An?
The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport, which is about 30 kilometers away. From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer to Hoi An. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or train to Da Nang and then continue by taxi or bus to Hoi An.
- What should I wear in Hoi An?
Hoi An has a tropical climate, so light, breathable clothing is recommended. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the cobbled streets of the Ancient Town. If youβre visiting temples or pagodas, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is advised.
- What are the must-try foods in Hoi An?
Hoi An is famous for its delicious cuisine. Donβt miss out on Cao LαΊ§u (a local noodle dish), Mi Quang (another type of noodle), White Rose Dumplings, and BΓ‘nh XΓ¨o (Vietnamese pancakes). Be sure to try the local street food at the Hoi An Central Market for an authentic experience.
- Is there shopping in Hoi An?
Absolutely! Hoi An is known for its tailoring services, where you can have custom clothes made to fit your style. This is also a unique experience that you canβt find anywhere else! The Ancient Town is filled with shops selling silk, clothing, lanterns, handmade jewelry, and other local crafts. Bargaining is common in markets, so donβt be afraid to haggle.
- Are there any cultural festivals in Hoi An?
Yes! The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the most famous events, held on the 14th day of each lunar month, when the town is lit up with colorful lanterns. Other cultural events include TαΊΏt (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
- Is it easy to get around Hoi An?
Yes, Hoi An is a small and walkable town. Most attractions in the Ancient Town are within walking distance. You can also rent a bicycle or motorbike, or use taxis and local transport if you want to explore further out.
Hoi An is a destination that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation, with something for every traveler. Whether you’re here for a day or a few, thereβs no shortage of things to explore. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness β a tranquil haven that combines luxury, wellness, and beautiful beachfront views, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.
