A real highlight of any Vietnam journey
Hoi An, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage town in central Vietnam, offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting towns – a beautifully preserved trading port with lantern-lit streets, mellow riverside cafés, and a calm, timeless atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where it’s easy to slow down. You’ll find yourself wandering cobbled lanes lined with mustard-yellow shopfronts, stopping for iced coffee, and watching the world go by from a shady balcony or a boat on the Thu Bon River.
What we love about Hoi An is how effortlessly it blends heritage and creativity. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of temples, merchant houses, and tailors who can craft a made-to-measure outfit in a day or two. But there’s also a contemporary, artisanal side to the town, with excellent restaurants, stylish boutiques, and hidden cocktail bars that feel wonderfully unexpected.
Beyond the town centre, you’re just a short bike ride from rice paddies, rivers, and some of Vietnam’s best beaches. We recommend a cooking class in a local village, a visit to the peaceful coconut palm waterways, or simply some time on An Bang Beach with its laid-back restaurants and ocean breeze.
Hoi An works for everyone – couples, families, foodies, or first-time visitors. It’s welcoming, walkable, and full of charm – a real highlight of any Vietnam journey.
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FAQs About Your Hoi An holidays Holiday
Planning a holiday to Hoi An holidays? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is Hoi An worth visiting?
Absolutely. Hoi An is a beautifully preserved town known for its lantern-lit streets, riverside charm, and historic architecture. Its compact size makes it perfect for strolling, cycling, and exploring at a relaxed pace, while still offering great restaurants, markets, and cultural experiences.
What’s the best time to visit Hoi An?
The best months are February to May and September to November, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and rainfall is lower. Avoid the peak rainy season (October–December), as heavy showers can occasionally disrupt travel plans.
What are the must-see sights in Hoi An?
Highlights include the Ancient Town with its vibrant lanterns, the Japanese Covered Bridge, traditional Chinese assembly halls, and lively riverside markets. Don’t miss the monthly lantern festival during the full moon, when the town glows with hundreds of floating lights. Hoi An is also known as the tailoring capital of Vietnam, with streets lined with talented tailors ready to create made-to-measure clothes, beautifully crafted, surprisingly quick, and often at very affordable prices.
Is Hoi An safe for travellers?
Your safety is always our top priority and our team are always happy to spend time answering any questions or concerns, just give one of our experts a call on 0203 111 1315. We only sell destinations and experiences that are considered safe for travel at the time of booking. However, situations can change, so we always recommend checking the latest guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) before you travel. We also encourage you to follow any local advice while abroad and take out comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind.
What are the best beaches near Hoi An?
An Bang Beach is a favourite for its soft sand, calm water, and beachside restaurants. Cua Dai Beach is another popular option, offering a quieter stretch for relaxing or swimming. Both are just a short drive or bicycle ride from the town centre.
What’s the food like in Hoi An?
Hoi An is famous for its culinary scene. Must-tries include Cao Lau noodles, white rose dumplings, and banh mi sandwiches. The town also offers fresh seafood, riverside cafés, and street food stalls. Many restaurants cater well to international tastes while keeping authentic flavours.
Can we get custom clothing or souvenirs in Hoi An?
Yes. Hoi An is renowned for its tailor shops, where you can have clothes, shoes, and accessories made to measure in a matter of days. There are also plenty of artisan shops selling lanterns, ceramics, and handmade crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs or gifts.
How easy is it to get around Hoi An?
Hoi An is very walkable, especially the Ancient Town. Bicycles are a popular and convenient option for exploring nearby villages, rice fields, and beaches. Taxis and private drivers are available for longer excursions, such as trips to My Son Sanctuary or Marble Mountains.
Are there cultural experiences suitable for visitors?
Yes. Visitors can enjoy lantern-making workshops, cooking classes, traditional music performances, and guided heritage tours. These hands-on experiences make it easy to connect with Hoi An’s rich history and culture in an engaging way.
Is Hoi An suitable for families or couples?
Absolutely. Families enjoy safe streets, relaxed beaches, and interactive workshops, while couples love the romantic riverside walks, candlelit dinners, and intimate boutique hotels. The town’s charm and pace make it a versatile destination for all types of tourists.
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Nia
Vietnam Expert
