10 Best Things to Do in Hoi An: The Ultimate Bucket List 2026

Are you struggling to create the perfect itinerary filled with the most exciting things to do in Hoi An? This ancient port city is packed with culture and adventure, so we have narrowed down the vast list of things to do in Hoi An to help you plan. In this article, let’s discover the top 10 best things to do in Hoi An.

What Makes Hoi An So Special?

To understand the allure of Hoi An Ancient Town, one must look beyond the photogenic yellow walls. This town is a living museum of a Southeast Asian trading port dating back to the 15th century, a melting pot where Japanese, Chinese, and European influences fused with indigenous Vietnamese culture. The result is an architectural and culinary identity that is distinct from anywhere else in the country.

Unlike the frenetic pace of Hanoi or the modern sprawl of Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An operates on a slower frequency. The pedestrian-friendly Old Town encourages you to wander aimlessly, to get lost in narrow alleys, and to savor the moment. It is a place where tailors can stitch a custom suit in 24 hours, and fishermen still paddle bamboo basket boats through the nipa palm forests.

Furthermore, the town’s geography is a blessing. It sits on the banks of the Thu Bon River, just a short cycle away from pristine white-sand beaches and verdant rice paddies. This unique combination of culture, beach, and countryside allows travelers to experience multiple facets of Vietnam in a single destination, making it a “must-visit” on any itinerary.

>>> Ride Through Hoi An Like a Local – Join the Hoi An Vespa Tour today.

How to Get to Hoi An Ancient Town

Reaching this heritage gem is straightforward, with Da Nang International Airport serving as the primary gateway. Located just 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) away, the airport connects the region to major Asian hubs and domestic cities. The scenic coastal drive from Da Nang to Hoi An takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, passing by the Marble Mountains and luxury golf resorts.

For those traveling overland, the Hai Van Pass offers one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world, connecting Hue to Da Nang. Trains arrive at Da Nang Railway Station, and open-bus tickets can drop you directly in Hoi An. Whether you fly, ride, or drive, the journey sets the stage for the beauty that awaits.

Getting Around Hoi An: Your Transport Guide

Once you arrive, the town’s compact nature makes navigation a breeze. There are several ways to explore, each offering a different perspective on the landscape. Below, we break down the most popular modes of transport for the cultural seeker.

Cycling the Ancient and Rural Paths

The bicycle is the undisputed king of transport here. The flat terrain and dedicated lanes make it accessible for all ages. Most hotels offer complimentary bikes, allowing you to pedal from the heritage zone to the vegetable villages of Tra Que in under 15 minutes. It is the perfect way to embrace the slow-travel philosophy of the region.

>> Ready to explore the real countryside of Hoi An? Join the Hoi An Cycling Tour to Cam Thanh Organic Farm today.

>>> View more: 5 Best Hoi An Cycling Routes for Exploring the Countryside

Walking the Pedestrian Zone

The core of the Ancient Town prohibits motorized vehicles during peak morning and evening hours. This turns the streets into a walker’s paradise. Strolling allows you to appreciate the intricate carvings on the assembly halls and the vibrant colors of the lantern shops without the distraction of traffic noise.

Private Car and Taxi Services

For trips further afield, such as to the My Son Sanctuary or the Ba Na Hills, hiring a private car is the most comfortable option. Metered taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are also readily available for short trips to the beach when the tropical heat makes cycling less appealing.

Top Things to Do in Hoi An Ancient Town

The list of things to do in Hoi An is extensive, catering to history buffs, foodies, and adventure seekers alike. We have curated the top 10 experiences that you simply cannot miss.

1. Wander Through the Ancient Town by Lantern Light

As the sun sets, the electric lights dim, and thousands of silk lanterns ignite, transforming the streets into a scene from a fairytale. Walking through the Ancient Town at night is a sensory feast. The warm glow reflects off the yellow walls, creating a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere that is unique to this town.

Make your way to the An Hoi Bridge to see the lanterns reflecting on the Hoai River. You can participate in the tradition of releasing a paper lotus lantern onto the water, making a wish as it drifts downstream. It is a simple yet profound ritual that connects you with the local spiritual culture.

2. Get Custom Clothes Made at a Tailor Shop

Hoi An is the tailoring capital of the world. Getting a bespoke suit, dress, or pair of leather shoes made is one of the top things to do in Hoi An. The town is home to hundreds of skilled tailors who can replicate high-fashion designs or create something entirely unique for you in just 24 to 48 hours.

The experience involves choosing your fabric from endless rolls of silk and cashmere, getting measured, and returning for fittings. It is a fun, creative process that results in a high-quality souvenir that fits you perfectly. Just be sure to come with a photo or a clear idea of what you want.

3. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge

This iconic pink bridge is the symbol of Hoi An, featured on the 20,000 VND banknote. Built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to connect with the Chinese quarter, it is a masterpiece of historical engineering. Inside, there is a small temple dedicated to the god of weather, Tran Vo Bac De.

Crossing the bridge is like walking between two worlds. The intricate wood carvings and the statues of dogs and monkeys guarding the entrances tell the story of the town’s multicultural past. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring the heritage of the Ancient Town. 

4. Join a Cooking Class and Market Tour

Vietnamese cuisine is world-renowned, and Hoi An offers some of its best variations. Taking a cooking class is an interactive way to learn about the local culture. Most classes start with a tour of the Central Market to buy fresh herbs and produce, giving you insight into the daily life of the locals.

>>> Experience the flavors of Vietnam with the Hoi An Cooking Class

You will learn to make regional specialties like Banh Xeo (sizzling pancakes) and fresh spring rolls. Many classes also include a boat ride to the cooking school, adding a scenic element to the culinary lesson. It is a delicious way to bring a piece of Vietnam back home with you.

>>>Ready to unwind with nature? Join the Medicinal Plants & Tea Making Experience in Hoi An today.

5. Cycle to the Vegetable & Pottery Villages

Escape the town center and pedal out to the surrounding craft villages. Tra Que Vegetable Village is famous for its organic herbs grown using river algae. You can try your hand at farming, watering the crops with traditional yokes. It is a grounding, earthy experience.

Alternatively, head to Thanh Ha Pottery Village to watch artisans shape clay on foot-powered wheels. You can even try making your own bowl. These excursions offer a glimpse into the artisanal heritage that has sustained the region for centuries.

Discover the Hoi An Cycling Tour by Hoi An Unique Travel for a refreshing countryside adventure.

6. Relax on the Pristine Sands of An Bang Beach

Just 4km from the Old Town, An Bang Beach offers a slice of tropical paradise. Voted one of the best beaches in the world, it features soft white sand and clean, blue water. It is the perfect antidote to the heat of the town.

You can rent a sunbed at a beach club, enjoy fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, or try water sports like parasailing. It is a laid-back, bohemian environment that attracts a mix of locals and expats.

7. Experience the Basket Boat Dance in Cam Thanh

For a dose of fun and adrenaline, head to the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest. Here, you can ride in the traditional round bamboo basket boats, or “Thung Chai.” The local boatmen will take you through the serene nipa palm canals before putting on a show.

They spin the boats in dizzying circles to the beat of energetic music, a performance known as the “Basket Boat Dance.” It is loud, chaotic, and incredibly fun. You can even try crab fishing from the boat, making it one of the best things to do in Hoi An with kids.

8. Visit the My Son Sanctuary at Sunrise

While technically outside the town, My Son Sanctuary is an essential day trip. These ancient Hindu temples, built by the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 14th centuries, are often compared to Angkor Wat. Seeing the red brick towers glow in the soft morning light is a spiritual experience.

Discover the heritage of central Vietnam with the My Son Sanctuary Tour

Going for a sunrise tour helps you beat the crowds and the heat. Walking among the ruins, surrounded by the jungle-clad mountains, you can feel the weight of history and the mystery of a lost civilization.

9. Sip Coffee with a View

Hoi An’s coffee culture is vibrant and diverse. Finding a rooftop cafe to watch the world go by is a favorite pastime. Faifo Coffee offers a famous panoramic view of the tiled rooftops, perfect for photography.

For a unique taste, try the local egg coffee or coconut coffee. Sitting in a vintage shophouse, sipping a strong brew while watching the street life below, is a moment of pure relaxation.

Here are some suggested coffee spots:

• Faifo Coffee: (130 Tran Phu Street) – The most famous rooftop in town. Come here for the iconic panoramic view of the yellow tiled rooftops.
• Hoi An Roastery: (135 Tran Phu Street) – Set in a classic heritage building with a beautiful courtyard. Excellent traditional espresso and local beans.
• The Espresso Station: (28/2 Tran Hung Dao Street) – A hidden gem tucked away in an alley, famous for its creative coffee art and signature “Dark Soul” latte.
• U Café: (120 Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street) – An eco-friendly oasis overlooking the river, perfect for a quiet, reflective afternoon away from the crowds.

>>> View more: 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Hoi An for Couples in 2026

10. Watch the Hoi An Memories Show

End your day with a spectacle. The Hoi An Memories Show is a massive outdoor visual arts performance involving 500 actors. It tells the 400-year history of the town through dance, music, and stunning lighting effects on a stage that includes the actual river.

It is a grand, emotional journey that brings the history you have walked through during the day to life. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful shows in the world and is a highlight for many visitors.

The “Masterclass” 3-Day Hoi An Itinerary

To help you experience the absolute best of Hoi An without suffering from travel burnout, we have curated a seamless, time-stamped 3-day itinerary. This schedule perfectly balances deep heritage exploration, rural adventures, and world-class evening entertainment.

Day 1: Heritage Secrets & The Lantern Magic

• 09:00 AM – Tailors & Temples: Head to a reputable tailor first to get measured. Afterward, walk to the Cantonese Assembly Hall before the crowds arrive to admire its majestic porcelain dragons.
• 11:00 AM – Living History: Step inside the Old House of Phung Hung to discover how this 240-year-old architectural gem survives the historic floods.
• 01:00 PM – Indochine Lunch: Escape the midday heat with a refined lunch at Morning Glory Signature.
• 03:00 PM – Visual Arts & Coffee: Explore the stunning Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum to learn about Vietnam’s 54 tribes. Then, catch the late afternoon golden light from the rooftop of Faifo Coffee.
• 06:30 PM – The Lantern River: Walk the pedestrian streets as they glow with silk lanterns. Have dinner at Mango Mango by the Japanese Bridge, followed by a romantic private lantern boat ride on the Hoai River. (Insider Tip: Do this on your first night to immediately immerse yourself in the town’s magic).

Day 2: Rural Escapes & The Grand Spectacle

• 08:30 AM – The Organic Farms: Rent a bicycle and pedal out to Tra Que Vegetable Village for an immersive morning cooking class amidst the herb gardens.
• 02:30 PM – Basket Boat Thrills: Head to the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest. Ride the traditional bamboo basket boats and watch the locals perform the dizzying basket boat dance.
• 05:30 PM – Eco-Dining: Enjoy an early, open-air dinner surrounded by rice paddies and lanterns at The Field Restaurant & Bar.
• 07:30 PM – A Night of History: Cross the glowing Moon Bridge to Cam Nam Island. Take your VIP seats for the Hoi An Memories Show, a breathtaking outdoor visual masterpiece featuring 500 performers that brings 400 years of history to life.

Day 3: Coastal Chill & Acrobatic Arts

• 09:00 AM – Beachside Serenity: Take a short taxi ride to An Bang Beach (or the quieter Hidden Beach). Rent a sunbed, swim in the clear water, and enjoy a lazy morning with fresh seafood.
• 03:00 PM – Final Touches: Head back to the Ancient Town for your final tailor fitting and to pick up your custom clothes. Use this time to shop for high-quality leather goods or local ceramics.
• 06:00 PM – The Bamboo Circus: Step inside the iconic glowing bamboo dome at the Lune Center to watch the Bamboo Circus Hoi An. The gravity-defying contemporary acrobatics and live folk music are deeply moving.
• 07:30 PM – A Grand Farewell: Conclude your trip with a luxurious, candlelit farewell dinner under the ancient trees at Brother’s Café or by the cozy wood-fired oven at Lim Dining Room.

 Want to skip the stressful planning? Let Hoi An Unique Travel execute this perfect 3-day itinerary for you. From private airport transfers to VIP show tickets and vetted tailors, our comprehensive packages cover every detail so you can just focus on the experience.

Best Street Food Spots and Restaurants to Try

No bucket list is complete without exploring Hoi An’s local cuisine, where iconic street food stalls and well-known restaurants sit side by side.

• Morning Glory Original: (106 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street) – The quintessential spot to try elevated local street food in a beautiful, bustling setting.
• Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen: (115 Tran Cao Van Street) – Arguably the best banh mi sandwich in the country, packed with flavorful meats and secret sauces.
• Bale Well: (45/51 Tran Hung Dao Street) – Famous for its fixed-menu feast of grilled pork skewers, spring rolls, and savory pancakes.
• Mot Hoi An: (150 Tran Phu Street) – You cannot miss this spot; look for the line of people buying their iconic refreshing herbal lotus tea.
• Mango Mango: (45 Nguyen Phuc Chu Street) – High-end fusion cuisine with stunning balcony views of the illuminated Japanese Bridge and river.

Enjoy a flavorful evening with the Hoi An BBQ Tour by Hoi An

Essential Travel Tips for First Time Visitors

A little local knowledge goes a long way. Here are some tips to help you navigate the town like a pro and avoid common pitfalls.

Timing Your Visit

The best time to visit is from February to April, when the weather is mild and dry. Avoid the rainy season from October to November, as the Old Town is prone to flooding, which can limit your outdoor activities when it rains. However, seeing the locals navigate the floods in boats is a unique sight in itself.

The Ticket System

To enter the heritage zone and visit the historical sites, you need to buy an entrance ticket. This ticket gives you access to 5 sightseeing spots (temples, museums, old houses). Keep your ticket stub handy as you will be asked for it at the entrance of each specific site.

Bargaining Etiquette

Bargaining is expected in the markets and tailor shops. Do it with a smile and be polite. It is a social interaction, not a battle. Shop around to get an idea of prices before committing. For dining in restaurants, prices are usually fixed.

Why Customize Your Itinerary with Hoi An Unique Travel?

With so many things to do in Hoi An, planning the perfect schedule can be overwhelming. Hoi An Unique Travel takes the stress out of the logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience. We don’t just book tours; we craft memories.

We can arrange private boat rides away from the crowds, secure reservations at the best sunset tables, and connect you with the most reputable tailors who won’t rip you off. Our local guides can show you the spiritual things to do in Hoi An, taking you to hidden pagodas that tourists miss.

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a budget-friendly backpacker adventure, we tailor the trip to your needs. We provide customized experiences with prices that are transparent and fair. 

Book Now to unlock the secrets of the ancient town, or Contact Us to design your dream holiday. For immediate assistance and local insights, call +84 916 976 731 for a free consultation. Let us show you the real Hoi An.

>>> View more: Discover The Best Hoi An Tours & Authentic Local Experiences

FAQs About the Best Things to Do in Hoi An

What are the best things to do in Hoi An? 

The absolute must-do experiences include exploring the Ancient Town by lantern light, getting custom clothes made at a local tailor, taking a traditional cooking class, riding a bamboo basket boat in Cam Thanh, and relaxing on the white sands of An Bang Beach.

Is Hoi An good for first-time visitors? 

Yes, it is exceptionally good. It is incredibly safe, highly walkable, and offers a perfect, stress-free mix of deep culture, world-class food, and beach relaxation. The locals are welcoming, and English is widely spoken in the tourist zones.

How many days do you need in Hoi An? 

We strongly recommend at least 3 to 4 full days. This gives you enough time to thoroughly explore the Old Town, take a half-day trip to My Son Sanctuary, relax at the beach, and allow time for multiple fittings if you are getting clothes custom-tailored.

Are there free things to do in Hoi An? 

Yes, plenty. Walking around the Ancient Town streets, visiting the bustling night market, cycling through the rural rice paddies, and relaxing on the public stretches of An Bang and Hidden Beach are all completely free.