A complete Hoi An travel guide in 2024

HOI AN TRAVEL GUIDE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Where is Hoi An?

Hoi An is a historic city located in Quang Nam province, well-known for its Ancient Town, which is recognized as UNESCO’s World Heritage site, and has a harmony beauty, intermingled by Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and French architectural style.

The thing that makes Hoi An unique is its lantern-lit streets, traditional wooden houses, ancient temples, and bustling markets are all well preserved offering a glimpse into its past, when this rustic ancient town was a hustle port, where trading activities here are the most busy all over Vietnam. Hence, upon setting foot in Hoi An, travelers will be captivated by the town’s old-world beauty and wistful charm

What is The Weather in Hoi An? Best Time to Visit Hoi An

Dry Season (February – August)

During this period, the weather is warm from February, extremely hot from May to August, and dry. March is the driest month. This is the best time to enjoy the beach activities, accommodations and services are at a pretty high price

Temperature:

February – April: 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F)

May – August: 30°C – 37°C (81°F – 98.6°F)

Rainy Season (September – January)

Monsoon rains and occasional typhoons are common during this time of the year, especially in October and November. Floods can occur so you should check the weather carefully at this time of the year. However, accommodations and services are cheaper than the dry season.

Temperature: Around 19°C – 24°C (66°F – 75°F)

Best Time to Visit Hoi An: The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April and August to October. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions, balancing warm temperatures with manageable humidity and minimal rainfall.

How to Get to Hoi An

1. How to get to Hoi An from Danang City

Hoi An is approximately 30 kilometers from Danang. You can reach it by taxi, private car, or a local bus, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

• By taxi

Pros: Fast, easy to get

Cons: Expensive, easily get scammed

Recommendation:

Mai Linh Taxi

Phone: (+84) 511 356 56 56

Price: Approximately 500 000 VND (~20 USD) from Da Nang to Hoi An

Vinasun Taxi

Phone: (+84) 5113 68 68 68

Price: Approximately 500 000 VND (~20 USD)

• By Bus

Bus Route 14

Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 7:30 PM

Travel time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Bus frequency: 5:30 AM – 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM – 4:45 PM

Price: 20,000 VND (~1 USD)

Bus route 01

Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 7:50 PM

Travel time: 40 minutes

Bus frequency: Every 20 minutes.

Price: 18,000 VND (~1 USD)

• By Shuttle

Recommendation

Barri Ann Travel

Price: 182 000 VND (7.12 USD)

Phone: (+84) 915 105 499

Website: barrianntravel.com

Travel time: 1 hours

Departs from: Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture to Hoi An Express Office

Operating time: 06:00, 07:00, 09:00, 10:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, 18:00, 20:00, 21:00

Vietnam Travel Bus

Price: 143 000 VND (5.62 USD)

Phone: (+84) 812 995 715

Website: travelbus.vn

Travel time: 1 hours

Depart from: Nguyen Van Thoai Street, Da Nang to Hai Ba Trung Street, Quang Nam

Operating time: 07:50, 08:00, 08:50, 09:00, 11:50, 12:00, 16:20, 16:30, 16:50, 17:00, 18:55, 19:00

2. How to Get to Hoi An From Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City

You can fly from Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) to Danang International Airport and then take a taxi or shuttle to Hoi An. The flight takes about 1.5 hours, followed by a 45-minute drive.

3. Navigating in Hoi An

• Grab/Be

The most convenient way to move from one destination to the other one. There are multiple choices of means of transport, from motorbike, 4 seat taxi, 7 seat taxi. The price is clear and mostly no scam when ordering on the app.

Be: Local app, cheaper than grab

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xyz.be.customer&hl=vi

IOS: https://apps.apple.com/vn/app/be-multi-service-platform/id1440565902

Grab: A little more expensive than Be

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.grabtaxi.passenger&hl=vi

IOS: https://apps.apple.com/vn/app/grab-driver-drive-and-deliver/id1257641454?l=vi

Getting around Hoi An by bicycle

Hoi An ancient town is not quite large, so you can chill on a rental bicycle while enjoying the vibe there. The price is around 25 000 VND – 30 000 VND (1-1.18 USD)

Recommendation:

• Ms. Hong bike rental shop:

Address: No. 286, Nguyen Duy Hiep street, Hoi An

• Ms. Phong bike rental shop

Address: No. 1, Le Loi street, Hoi An

• Mr. Le Van Trung bike rental shop

Address: No. 15/1, Tran Hung Dao street, Hoi An

Xe Om (motorbike taxi)

You can see them everywhere on the street, all you need to do is wave at them and tell them where you want to go. However, this is not highly recommended as you can get scammed or have to pay double the price.

Walking in Hoi An

The Ancient Town is best explored on foot. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the intricate details of Hoi An’s architecture and soak in the lively street life. Many guided walking tours are available, offering insights into the town’s history and culture.

Top Attractions in Hoi An

Hoi An Ancient Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area is the heart of Hoi An, filled with historic buildings, charming cafes, and bustling markets.

Japanese Covered Bridge: This iconic 18th-century bridge is a symbol of Hoi An and a testament to the town’s historical Japanese influence.

Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation: A beautiful example of Chinese architecture, this hall is a must-visit for its ornate designs and cultural significance.

Tan Ky Old House: A well-preserved merchant’s house offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of Hoi An’s historical elite.

Hoi An Night Market: Located on Nguyen Hoang Street, the night market is famous for its lanterns, street food, and artisanal crafts.

Coconut Jungle: Explore the lush waterways of the Coconut Jungle by basket boat, a unique and enjoyable experience.

An Bang Beach: A beautiful, serene beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Cua Dai Beach: Another popular beach offering pristine sands and clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day out.

What to Eat in Hoi An

Must-Try Local Dishes:

• Cao Lau: A unique noodle dish with a rich broth, tender pork, and fresh herbs.

• White Rose Dumplings: Delicate dumplings filled with shrimp or pork.

• Banh Mi: Vietnamese baguette sandwiches with various fillings.

• Com Ga (Chicken Rice): A flavorful dish of rice cooked in chicken broth, served with tender chicken.

Top Restaurants:

• Morning Glory Signature: Renowned for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

• Mango Mango: Famous for its delicious local dishes and friendly atmosphere. The most signature dish is avocado salad and eggplant creations

• Hi Restaurant: This place serve Western food (pizza, burger,salads and beer)

Accommodations in Hoi An

5-Star Hotels in Hoi An

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai: Luxurious beachfront resort with world-class amenities.

Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery: Elegant hotel blending historical charm with modern comfort.

4-Star Hotels in Hoi An

Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort: Known for its spa and wellness facilities.

Little Riverside Hoi An: Offers riverfront views and excellent service.

3-Star Hotels in Hoi An

Vinh Hung Old Town Hotel: A budget-friendly option with a central location.

Hoi An TNT Villa: Comfortable and affordable with a homely feel.

Homestays in Hoi An

An Bang Beach Hideaway Homestay: A cozy option near the beach.

Maison Vy: Offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Vietnamese hospitality.

Souvenirs recommendations in Hoi An: What to buy in Hoi An

Silk Lanterns in Hoi An

Where to Buy: You can find silk lanterns throughout the city, especially in the Hoi An Night Market (open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and the Central Market (open daily from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m.). There are also specialized lantern shops.

Price Range: Lantern prices vary based on size and intricacy. Expect to pay around 100,000 VND (approximately 4.30 USD) for smaller lanterns. Larger ones may cost more

Leather Bags in Hoi An

Where to Buy: Da Bao Real Leather, Experience Leather Hoi An, Leatherworld Hoi An

Price Range: Ready-made leather bags start at around 300,000 VND (approximately 13 USD). Custom-designed bags will vary based on style and size

Tailor made clothes in Hoi An

The special thing about tailoring in Hoi An is that it only takes 4-5 hours for the tailors to get the outfit completed since the moment clients visit the shop. According to many tailors in Hoi An, the total price of making tailor made clothing is only half or two-thirds of the price of having such outfits made in developed countries.

Where to order: Bebe tailor, A Dong Silk, Yaly, Bảo Khánh Silk,…

Price Range: You can purchase a ready-made ao dai for about 500,000 VND (around 21.50 USD). Opting for tailor-made silk fabric will cost more

Agarwood in Hoi An

Where to Buy: Trầm Hương Tố Lộc, Hương trầm phố Hội, Trung Phước Traditional Agarwood Village

Price Range: Hoi An’s agarwood prices range wildly. Incense starts cheap (from 200 000 VND, which is about 4 USD), while high-quality chips and art objects can cost millions. Expect bracelets and necklaces around 200 million VND, statues even higher. For best deals, find reputable sellers with authenticity certificates.

Hoi An Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Ancient Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and dine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Take a cooking class, visit the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, and relax at An Bang Beach.

Day 3: Explore the Coconut Jungle by basket boat, shop at the Hoi An Night Market, and enjoy a seafood dinner at Cua Dai Beach.

Hoi An Travel Tips

• Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and pagodas.

• Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases.

• Bargain when shopping at markets and stalls.

• Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

• Drink bottled water and avoid eating street food from vendors with poor hygiene.

• Apply sunscreen and wear a hat when spending time outdoors.

• Be patient and enjoy the experience of traveling in Vietnam.

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