The 14 BEST things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam!

Ahoy there, fellow travelers! Are you ready to embark on an epic journey to Hoi An, Vietnam – the land of delicious food, stunning beaches, and endless adventures? This charming little city has so much to offer, from cultural explorations to outdoor fun. So pack your bags, hop on a plane, and get ready to have the time of your life in Hoi An!

Atmosphere / Vibes

Hoi An has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the city has a relaxed, easygoing vibe that’s perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re strolling through the markets, lounging on the beach, or exploring the city’s ancient temples and buildings, you’ll feel right at home in Hoi An.

Weather throughout the year

Hoi An has a tropical climate, with warm, humid weather year-round. The average temperature is a pleasant 27°C (80°F), and the humidity is usually high, which makes for some balmy, tropical weather. Rain is common in Hoi An, especially during the monsoon season from September to December, but the showers are usually short and refreshing.

Why Hoi An, Vietnam is the best place to be

There are so many reasons why Hoi An is the best place to be! Here are just a few: The food: Vietnam is known for its delicious cuisine, and Hoi An is no exception. From fragrant pho to crispy banh mi to spicy curries, there’s something for every foodie in Hoi An. The city’s markets and street food stalls are a great place to try local specialties, and there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes serving a variety of international dishes. The nature: Hoi An is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from the sandy beaches of Cua Dai to the lush rice paddies of the countryside. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go birdwatching in the wetlands, or explore the countryside on a bike or scooter, Hoi An has something for you. The culture: Hoi An is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are so many ways to explore it. The city is home to a variety of ancient temples, buildings, and cultural attractions, such as the Hoi An Ancient Town, the My Son Sanctuary, and the Thanh Ha Pottery Village.

Cost of Travel

Hoi An is a budget-friendly destination, with plenty of options for travelers on a tight budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively inexpensive, and there are plenty of free or cheap activities to enjoy, such as visiting the city’s markets and temples. That being said, prices can vary depending on the time of year and your travel style, so it’s always a good idea to do some research and plan ahead.

Top 14 best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

1. Relax on the beach: Hoi An is home to some stunning beaches, with crystal-clear water and soft, powdery sand. Some of the best beaches in the area include Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach, and the Cham Islands. Spend a day lounging on the beach, swimming in the sea, or trying out some water sports.
2. Take a boat trip to the Cham Islands: Located a short boat ride from Hoi An, the Cham Islands are a beautiful archipelago of islands offering crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning coral reefs. Take a boat tour or rent your own kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore these tropical paradise.
3. Try some local specialties: Vietnam is home to some of the most delicious food in the world, and Hoi An is no exception. Be sure to try some local specialties such as banh mi (a type of sandwich made with fresh vegetables and meat), pho (a fragrant noodle soup), and cao lau (a type of noodle dish).
4. Take a cooking class: Hoi An is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many cooking classes available in the city that will teach you how to make some of Vietnam’s most popular dishes. Take a class to learn about Vietnamese ingredients, techniques, and flavors, and then impress your friends and family back home with your new culinary skills.
5. Visit the Hoi An Ancient Town: This charming old town is a must-see for any visitor to Hoi An. The town is home to a variety of ancient temples, buildings, and cultural attractions, and is a great place to learn about Vietnam’s history and culture. Be sure to visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, and the Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall while you’re there.
6. Shop for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market: This bustling market is held every night and is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. From handmade crafts to local food and drinks, there’s something for everyone at the Hoi An Night Market.
7. Go birdwatching at the Cua Dai Wetlands: Located just a short drive from Hoi An, the Cua Dai Wetlands are home to a staggering variety of bird species, including hornbills, eagles, and kingfishers. Take a guided tour or rent a kayak to explore the wetlands and spot some of these amazing birds in their natural habitat.
8. Relax with a massage: Hoi An is home to a variety of spas and massage centers offering a range of treatments, from traditional Vietnamese massages to reflexology and aromatherapy. Take some time to pamper yourself and relax during your trip to Hoi An.
9. Take a boat tour of the Thu Bon River: The Thu Bon River is a beautiful waterway that flows through Hoi An, and there are many boat tours available that will take you on a journey through the city’s waterways. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the city’s ancient temples and buildings, and may even spot some wildlife such as monkeys and water buffalo.
10. Go cycling in the countryside: Hoi An is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with rice paddies, waterways, and small villages that are perfect for exploring by bike. Rent a bike or join a guided tour to see some of the area’s most stunning landscapes and learn about local life.
11. Take a photography tour: Hoi An is a photographer’s paradise, with its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and colorful markets. Join a photography tour to learn about local culture, history, and traditions, and get some amazing shots along the way.
12. Visit the My Son Sanctuary: This ancient temple complex is a must-see for any visitor to Hoi An. Located just a short drive from the city, the My Son Sanctuary is home to a variety of ancient temples and buildings that date back to the 4th century. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the Cham people and see some of Vietnam’s most beautiful temples.
13. Take a boat tour of the Ba Na Hills: Located just a short drive from Hoi An, the Ba Na Hills are a beautiful mountain range with stunning views and plenty of outdoor adventures. Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the hills and see some of the area’s amazing wildlife, such as monkeys, gibbons, and deer.

Conclusion

Hoi An, Vietnam is a truly amazing destination, with something for everyone. From relaxing on the beach to exploring the city’s ancient temples and buildings, there are so many things to see and do in this charming, welcoming city. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, Hoi An has something for you. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Hoi An today!

Have you thought about staying in Hoi An for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Hoi An

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Vietnam, such as Da Nang, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.