Hoi An Vietnam is more than a riverside town, it’s a living example of a multi-faceted destination where history, ulture, and daily life intertwine. Celebrated by Travel + Leisure for its timeless charm, this UNESCO-listed Ancient Town invites travelers to lose themselves in lantern-lit evenings, graceful architecture, and unforgettable flavors. From seamless arrivals via Da Nang Airport to wandering cobbled streets, savoring a Hoi An banh mi, or shopping for tailor-made outfits, every moment in Hoi An feels both authentic and welcoming.
Join Travel Sense Asia to discover what makes Hoi An one of the world’s most beloved cities and why it deserves a place on your Vietnam journey.
Hoi An’s charm is not a passing trend, it has been celebrated repeatedly by Travel + Leisure readers as one of the world’s most remarkable cities. After being crowned the #1 city in 2019 and honored again in 2024, the town has now earned its place among the Top 6 Best Cities in the World for 2025.
Travel + Leisure describes Hoi An as “renowned for its network of canals and the distinctive architecture in its Ancient Town, marked by a fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures.” Strolling through lantern-lit streets, photographing ochre-colored houses, or enjoying cafés, boutiques, and nightlife, visitors find that Hoi An blends history, culture, and modern comfort in a way few cities can.
Conveniently located just 30 km from Danang International Airport, Hoi An is as practical as it is enchanting, an irresistible choice for travelers who want both authenticity and ease.
Source: Internet
Hoi An Ancient Town: A fusion of cultures
At the heart of Hoi An in Vietnam lies the UNESCO-listed Hoi An ancient town, a rare example of a trading port that has preserved both architecture and atmosphere across centuries. What makes it truly special is the fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures: Chinese assembly halls, Japanese bridges, and even local temples – all blending into a harmonious urban landscape.
Hoi An Japanese Bridge: The timeless icon of Hoi An Vietnam
The most famous symbol of this heritage is the Hoi An Japanese Bridge. Built in the 16th century, it reflects the influence of Japanese merchants who once lived in the town. With its arched wooden structure, tiled roof, and small temple inside, the bridge connects not only two sides of the river but also two cultures, and remains one of the most photographed Hoi An attractions.
Chinese Assembly Halls: The footprint of cultural exchange
Equally striking are the Chinese assembly halls, built by immigrant communities as places of worship and gathering. The Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, dedicated to the sea goddess Thien Hau, greets visitors with dragon-adorned gates and incense-filled courtyards. The Cantonese Assembly Hall features intricate wood carvings and a dragon fountain.
These are essential stops for anyone interested in Hoi An sightseeing. They stand as reminders of Hoi An’s role as a vibrant crossroads where East met West, and as living museums of craftsmanship and faith.
Temples and pagodas in Hoi An: Spiritual anchors of the town
Beyond the houses, several temples stand quietly within the Old Town. The Quan Cong Temple, honoring a Chinese general, showcases elaborate altars and red pillars. The Chuc Thanh Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hoi An, reflects Vietnamese spiritual traditions dating back to the 15th century. Together, they complete the cultural and spiritual mosaic that makes Hoi An so unique.
Source: Internet
Food that wins hearts: Banh Mi Hoi An and more
Eating in Hoi An is more than filling up, it’s part of the town’s soul. Among the best things to do in Hoi An Vietnam is tasting its dishes, each carrying a story of heritage and creativity.
Banh Mi Hoi An: Anthony Bourdain once called it “a symphony in a sandwich,” and he wasn’t wrong. A crisp baguette filled with pâté, herbs, pickles, and local sauces turns into a world-famous street food you can enjoy for just a dollar.
Cao Lau: Thick noodles with pork, herbs, and rice crackers – a taste found only in Hoi An.
Mi Quang: With golden turmeric noodles, shrimp, pork, and peanuts, this dish feels light yet hearty, perfect for warm evenings in the Old Town.
Beyond these icons, Hoi An’s food scene thrives in its streets and by the sea. Wander night markets to snack on grilled skewers and sweet herbal drinks, or head to An Bang Beach for seafood restaurants serving the day’s fresh catch right by the water.
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Nightlife in Hoi An: Lanterns, cafes and river boat rides
Hoi An transforms after sunset: lanterns glow along the river, balconies fill with soft music, and the Hoi An night market becomes a swirl of color and street snacks.
Evenings favor conversation over crowds, with acoustic bars and courtyard cafés offering ambience rather than loud clubs. Families and couples appreciate how safe and walkable it is, with most Hoi An attractions only minutes apart.
A simple flow for things to do in Hoi An at night: dinner in the Old Town, a stroll through the night market, then a short boat ride or rooftop coffee.
Source: Internet
Hoi An Tailoring: Affordable fashion with global appeal
Among the most unique things to do in Hoi An Vietnam, tailoring has become a true highlight. The Old Town is lined with workshops where skilled artisans craft suits, dresses, and even the traditional áo dài to order. Many tailors can complete garments in just 24–48 hours, giving travelers the rare chance to return home with clothing that fits perfectly and carries a personal story.
For visitors, this experience is both practical and delightful: high-quality craftsmanship at prices far lower than back home, with the added charm of choosing fabrics, cuts, and styles on the spot. Sitting with a tailor, sipping tea while browsing silk samples, becomes as memorable as wearing the outfit itself.
Shopping in Hoi An: More than just souvenirs
Beyond tailoring, shopping is another rewarding Hoi An attraction. The town is filled with boutique shops and artisan stalls offering everything from colorful lanterns and handwoven scarves to leather goods and delicate jewelry. Each item is more than a souvenir, it’s a piece of Hoi An’s trading heritage.
At the bustling Hoi An Night Market or the lively Central Market, travelers can bargain with vendors while enjoying the aroma of spices and the flavors of local street food.
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Beyond the Ancient Town: Hoi An Beaches, My Son Sanctuary and Cham Islands
For travelers seeking relaxation, beaches in Hoi An are only minutes from the Old Town. An Bang Beach is lively with music and cafés, while Cua Dai Beach is calm and family-friendly. Sunsets here, followed by seafood dinners, are among the most unforgettable things to do in Hoi An.
Nearby excursions enrich the journey: the ancient temples of My Son Sanctuary, the snorkeling paradise of Cham Islands, and the viewpoints of the Marble Mountains. Together, they expand the list of Hoi An attractions beyond the Old Town.
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Plan your trip to Hoi An with Travel Sense Asia
Hoi An’s diverse beauty lies in its cultural fusion, lantern-lit beauty, and timeless charm, a city that welcomes the world while preserving its authenticity. And Travel Sense Asia is here to make that journey seamless from start to finish. With more than 15 years of experience designing journeys across Vietnam, we ensure every detail is handled with care from seamless transfers via Danang Airport to Hoi An, to boutique stays and hand-picked local experiences. Contact Travel Sense Asia today to create your own tailor-made tour and enjoy the magic of Hoi An.
