Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed town in central Vietnam, enchants visitors with its lantern-lit streets, riverside charm, and preserved heritage. For Indian travelers, it offers a unique blend of culture, crafts, and cuisine—all in a peaceful, walkable setting.
1. Stroll through the Ancient Town
Why experience: Hoi An’s old quarter is a stunning mix of history and color.
Highlights: – Japanese Bridge, ancient houses, and temples – Yellow walls and hanging lanterns – Traffic-free streets perfect for walking
Timing: 8 AM – 9 PM
Entry: ~120,000 VND (includes 5 heritage site entries)
2. Take a lantern-lit boat ride
Why experience: The Thu Bon River transforms into magic at night.
Highlights: – Float paper lanterns with wishes – Romantic experience under glowing bridges – Local rowers offer short scenic trips
Timing: 6 PM – 9 PM
Entry: ~50,000–100,000 VND per boat
3. Learn to cook Vietnamese food
Why experience: Fun, hands-on way to explore Hoi An’s cuisine.
Highlights: – Visit markets, pick ingredients – Cook dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh xeo – Vegetarian-friendly classes
Timing: Morning or afternoon (3–4 hours)
Entry: ~500,000–800,000 VND per class
4. Cycle through rice fields and villages
Why experience: A scenic, eco-friendly escape beyond town.
Highlights: – Quiet countryside roads and buffalo sightings – Meet local farmers and artisans – Sunset rides are especially stunning
Timing: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry: Free (bike rentals ~40,000 VND/day)
5. Visit Hoi An Night Market
Why experience: A bustling riverside market full of charm and flavor.
Highlights: – Lanterns, crafts, clothes, and street food – Lively but safe for families – Try coconut pancakes and banana roti
Timing: 5 PM – 10 PM
Entry: Free
6. Get tailor-made clothes
Why experience: Hoi An is famous for affordable, custom fashion.
Highlights: – Suits, dresses, and traditional ao dai – Hundreds of tailors to choose from – Ready in 24–48 hours
Timing: All day
Entry: Based on fabric and design (~500,000–2,000,000 VND)
7. Explore Tra Que Vegetable Village
Why experience: Discover organic farming traditions.
Highlights: – Learn how locals grow herbs and veggies – Try farming or cooking activities – Peaceful rural atmosphere
Timing: 8 AM – 4 PM
Entry: ~35,000 VND (plus add-on activities)
8. Relax at An Bang Beach
Why experience: A quiet stretch of coast just outside town.
Highlights: – Clean sand and calm waves – Beach cafés and massages – Great for sunrise walks
Timing: All day
Entry: Free
9. Try traditional Hoi An dishes
Why experience: Local specialties you won’t find elsewhere.
Highlights: – Must-eats: cao lau noodles, white rose dumplings, banh mi – Plenty of vegetarian and halal-friendly spots – Affordable and flavorful meals
Timing: All day
Entry: ~25,000–60,000 VND per dish
10. Visit the Precious Heritage Museum
Why experience: A deep dive into Vietnam’s ethnic diversity.
Highlights: – Stunning portraits and costumes by photographer Réhahn – Free entry with cultural storytelling – Quiet and thought-provoking experience
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry: Free
