Why visit Hoi An: Timeless charm, beaches, and unique experiences

by Bliss Hoi An September 3, 2025 4

If you are wondering why visit Hoi An, the answer lies in its perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage town invites travelers with lantern-lit streets, golden sandy beaches, and authentic local cuisine. Whether you’re strolling through the Old Town, savoring a bowl of Cao Lau, or relaxing at sunrise on Binh Minh Beach, Hoi An offers a journey that feels both timeless and refreshing.

A UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage

One of the main reasons travelers wonder why visit Hoi An lies in its unique cultural value. Since 1999, Hoi An Ancient Town has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site. This honor not only acknowledges the well-preserved architecture but also stands as proof of a long history of trade, integration, and cultural exchange.

A bustling international trading port of the past

Hoi An is a vibrant port in the 17th and 18th centuries (source: Vietnam tourism)

Hoi An was once among the most important international trading ports in Southeast Asia from the 16th to 18th centuries. Merchants from Japan, China, India, and even Europe came here to trade and exchange goods. This cultural intersection has left lasting marks on the town’s architecture, cuisine, religions, and customs, creating a distinctive identity that makes why visit Hoi An an easy question to answer.

Vibrant festivals and traditional customs

Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An (source: Cellphone S)

Beyond its architecture and history, Hoi An also captivates visitors with its traditional festivals and customs. The most famous is the Full Moon Lantern Festival, when the entire town turns off electric lights and glows only with lanterns and floating candles on the Thu Bon River. In addition, folk festivals, traditional boat-rowing chants, lion dances, and rituals honoring craft ancestors all reflect the town’s rich spiritual life and strong community bonds.

The timeless beauty of Hoi An ancient town

The very first reason people wonder why visit Hoi An lies in its timeless charm. Over 400 years of history have passed, yet the town still preserves its old-world atmosphere with moss-covered tiled roofs, yellow walls weathered by time, and winding narrow alleys. Walking through these streets feels like stepping back into a bustling 17th–18th century trading port, where Eastern and Western cultures once intertwined.

Harmonious architecture

Visit the Chaozhou Assembly Hall during the festival season

Unlike modern cities filled with skyscrapers, Hoi An maintains its simplicity through rows of wooden houses, lacquered doors, and intricately carved balconies. The buildings here reflect a unique blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese influences, creating a look that feels both familiar and distinctive. The old houses stand closely together, their dark brown roofs seamlessly connected, forming a captivating architectural canvas.

Lantern-lit streets at night

If Hoi An appears peaceful and rustic by day, it transforms into a dazzling wonderland by night, when thousands of colorful lanterns illuminate every street. Their soft glow reflected on the Thu Bon River creates a magical scene that never fails to enchant visitors. This is the perfect time for a leisurely stroll, to take photos, or to board a small boat and release floating lanterns, embracing the serene and romantic atmosphere that is unique to Hoi An.

A slow and peaceful rhythm of life

What truly captures the hearts of many visitors to Hoi An is not only its beauty but also its rare sense of tranquility. Without the noise of honking cars or the rush of modern life, the ancient town offers a calming retreat where balance can easily be found. Cycling through brick-paved streets, sipping coffee at hidden cafés, and savoring the quiet moments are just some of the reasons why visit Hoi An is a life-enriching choice.

Culinary paradise you cannot resist

Hoi An is a true food paradise, another answer to why visit Hoi An. From traditional street food stalls to cozy restaurants, the town offers a wide range of dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Signature dishes you must try

One dish you cannot miss is cao lau, a specialty only found in Hoi An. With chewy noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crispy crackers, it delivers a taste that is both rustic and refined. Another favorite among travelers is banh mi Phuong, hailed as one of the best Vietnamese sandwiches. The crispy baguette is filled with a delicious mix of grilled meat, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces, creating an unforgettable bite.

Banh mi Hoi An (source: Banh mi Long Hoi)

For those who enjoy refreshing drinks, Mot is a charming herbal tea shop loved by both locals and tourists. Served in a simple paper cup with fresh herbs and flowers, Mot is not just a drink but also part of the Hoi An experience.

Food tours and cooking classes for deeper experiences

Street food tours are among the most popular ways to explore. These guided walks lead you through hidden corners of the ancient town, where small food stalls and family-run eateries serve dishes that capture the true spirit of Hoi An. From a humble bowl of mi Quang to freshly grilled banh mi, every stop introduces you to flavors that are simple yet full of depth.

Cooking classes offer another meaningful experience. Many of these classes take place inside old houses or at bustling local markets. Participants get to handpick fresh ingredients, learn traditional cooking techniques, and prepare signature dishes under the guidance of local chefs. The highlight comes when you sit down to enjoy the dishes you created, savoring not just the taste but also the effort and story behind each recipe.

The combination of diverse flavors and hands-on experiences is one of the many reasons why visit Hoi An is always worth it. Every meal here turns into an unforgettable memory, making Hoi An a true “food paradise” for travelers seeking both taste and culture.

Handicrafts and tailor-made experiences

Beyond its ancient town beauty and delicious cuisine, Hoi An captivates visitors with its traditional handicrafts and world-famous tailor-made services. Here, you don’t just shop, you get to experience, create, and bring home unique memories deeply tied to the spirit of Hoi An.

World-famous tailor-made services

Experience instant tailoring in Hoi An (Source: Vivu)

One of the things that makes Hoi An unforgettable for visitors is its same-day tailoring service. Within just 24 hours, you can have a perfectly fitted outfit custom-made to your measurements, whether it’s a traditional ao dai, a business suit, or an elegant evening dress. With a wide selection of fabrics, meticulous craftsmanship, and reasonable prices, Hoi An has become a true “tailoring paradise” praised by many international travel magazines. It is a personalized experience that few places in the world can offer.

Traditional craft villages

Hoi An is not only famous for tailoring but also home to many traditional craft villages. Thanh Ha Pottery Village, with over 500 years of history, allows you to try shaping clay and create your own unique ceramic pieces. Kim Bong Carpentry Village impresses visitors with intricate wood carvings that once contributed to the construction of temples, pagodas, and ancient houses in the town. In addition, Tra Que Vegetable Village offers a fun farming experience, giving you the chance to explore the locals’ eco-friendly lifestyle closely tied to nature.

Relaxing beaches and riverside charm

One of the most compelling answers to why visit Hoi An lies in its serene coastline and gentle riverside beauty. Just a short ride from the ancient town, you’ll find An Bang Beach and the quieter Binh Minh Beach, where golden sand, turquoise waves, and fresh sea breezes create the perfect escape. Unlike crowded beaches, these shores let you unwind in peace, whether you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or simply walking barefoot along the shoreline.

Bliss Hoi An is your perfect beachfront escape

For the ultimate coastal retreat, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness brings travelers an unforgettable experience. Nestled right by the pristine Binh Minh Beach, Bliss offers a harmonious blend of luxury and nature. Wake up to breathtaking sunrise views, enjoy infinity pools overlooking the ocean, and recharge at the wellness spa with signature treatments inspired by traditional healing. Each villa and room is designed with elegance, ensuring comfort while connecting you to the peaceful rhythm of the sea.

Beyond relaxation, Bliss also curates enriching beachside experiences. You can join a morning yoga class at sunrise, or savor a private seafood BBQ right on the sand. Families can enjoy cycling through coastal villages, while couples indulge in candlelit dinners under the stars. Every detail is thoughtfully crafted to make your stay not just a getaway, but a journey of wellness and discovery. Book your stay today. Reserve now at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness!

Every journey leaves behind its own mark, but Hoi An always has a way of lingering in travelers’ hearts. From ancient streets and traditional craft villages to golden beaches and vibrant food stalls, the city invites you to slow down and savor every detail. The question of why visit Hoi An doesn’t need a single answer – it’s found in the gentle rhythm of daily life, the warmth of local smiles, and the unforgettable moments you create for yourself here.