Visiting Hoi An was one of the highlights of our trip to Vietnam. In fact, it quickly became our favourite destination in the country. This charming city, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, feels almost magical, especially when its famous lanterns light up the streets every night.
Walking through Hoi An’s ancient town, you’ll be mesmerised by the colourful lanterns, the aroma of local cuisine, and the friendly smiles of the locals.
Here, we’ve compiled a list of the top 11 activities you absolutely must experience during your visit. From exploring ancient temples to sampling delicious street food, each activity will make your trip to Hoi An unforgettable. So, get ready to fall in love with this enchanting city as much as we did!
1. HOI AN MARKET
Hoi An Market is a vibrant and colourful place, renowned for its fresh vegetables and fruits. Both locals and tourists visit the market daily, contributing to its energetic atmosphere. It’s a fantastic place to learn about local culture through its food and people.
The market also offers a wide range of spices and herbs, perfect for visiting If you love cooking. Many fresh fruits are available, providing a great snack option while you explore. Overall, Hoi An Market is a must-see attraction, offering a glimpse into the daily life and flavours of Vietnam.
2. MY SON SANCTUARY
My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about a 40-minute drive from Hoi An. Here, you can explore the ruins and learn about Cham culture and history.
The site is stunning, with temples made of red bricks and sandstone, surrounded by lush green forests. You can visit with your own motorbike, though the ride is quite long. The easiest way is to book a guided tour with an agency called Local Tours Hoi An.
3. TAKE A COOKING CLASS IN HOI AN
Taking a cooking class in Hoi An is a wonderful experience. The classes are usually held in local kitchens. You start by visiting Hoi An market to buy fresh ingredients. Guides will take you through the market, explaining the various foods. This is a great way to learn about local produce and spices.
Back in the kitchen, you will learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. The instructors will teach you many different tips and tricks, and the best part is that at the end of the class, you get to enjoy the delicious food you made. It was one of our most memorable experiences from our trip to Hoi An! Check the availability here.
4. VISIT RICE FIELDS
Visiting the rice fields in Hoi An is a peaceful experience. The fields are very green and beautiful, and you can see farmers working hard. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and perfect for photos.
Many tours offer bike rides around the fields, allowing you to see more of the countryside. You can also learn about how rice is grown and harvested.
5. GO TO THE BEACH
We recommend visiting An Bang Beach near Hoi An. It is just a short drive away. You can take long walks along the shore and enjoy the many small restaurants and cafes. Relax on the beach and soak up the sunshine; there are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
There are also quite a few activities to enjoy at the beach. Try water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, or join a yoga class by the sea. Watching the sunset at An Bang Beach is a must. The view is stunning and makes for great photos.
6. HOI AN NIGHT MARKET
Visiting the Hoi An Night Market is a fantastic experience. The market is lively and colourful, opening in the evening and staying open until late at night. Located in the old town area of Hoi An, it has many stalls selling a variety of goods, including clothes, accessories, and souvenirs.
The market is also famous for its street food. You can try local dishes, such as banh mi and spring rolls. The food is delicious and affordable.
7. HAVE A MASSAGE
Hoi An has many spas offering various types of massages, with the most popular options being foot massage, body massage, and hot stone massage. The prices are affordable, making it a great excuse to treat yourself.
A massage is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, adding a special touch to your visit to this charming town. I recommend reading reviews before visiting to ensure you get the best experience possible. We found a great deal with Blue Gift Spa.
8. VISIT CHUA CAU
Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Covered Bridge, is a famous landmark in Hoi An. Built in the 16th century by Japanese merchants, the bridge is made of wood and stone and has a unique and beautiful design.
A lot of people visit the bridge to pray for good fortune. It is one of the most photographed spots in Hoi An.
9. ENJOY THE DELICIOUS LOCAL FOOD
Hoi An is famous for its tasty and unique dishes. One popular dish is cao lau, made with noodles and fresh herbs. Another favourite is banh mi, a crispy baguette filled with various toppings.
You can also try white rose dumplings, which are delicate and delicious. If you are vegan or vegetarian, there are many great options in the city. You can read our article about it here.
10. BA MU TEMPLE
Ba Mu Temple in Hoi An is a special place to visit. The temple is very old and has a rich history. It is located in the heart of Hoi An’s old town, where locals come to pray and seek blessings.
The temple has beautiful architecture, and the atmosphere is peaceful and calm.
11. CAM TANH COCONUT VILLAGE
Visiting Cam Thanh Coconut Village in Hoi An is a unique experience. The village is famous for its water coconut palm trees, which you can explore by taking a basket boat ride. These round, bamboo boats are rowed by local guides who will show you around.
The villagers are very friendly and welcoming, happy to share their way of life with visitors. You can book your tour with Viator or go directly to the village and ask locals about the tour.
WHERE TO STAY IN HOI AN?
We found the perfect place to stay in Hoi An, and it was one of our favourite accommodations in Vietnam. Little Oasis – An Eco-Friendly Hotel & Spa is ideally located just outside the old town, with beautiful river views.
The hotel features a variety of beautifully designed rooms and suites, along with two rooftop pools offering amazing views. It provides a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic local experiences.
The staff at Little Oasis Hotel are known for their warm hospitality and attentive service, going above and beyond to ensure every guest has a comfortable and memorable stay.
Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply looking for a relaxing escape, Hoi An has something special for everyone.
SEE ALSO: Explore Hoi An’s Vibrant Vegan Restaurants: Where Flavour Meets Tradition