Few destinations in Southeast Asia possess the timeless beauty and irresistible charm of Hoi An. Located on Vietnam’s central coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has become one of the country's most beloved travel destinations thanks to its remarkably preserved architecture, colorful lantern-lit streets, rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and extraordinary cuisine.
For centuries, Hoi An served as an important international trading port where Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants exchanged goods and ideas. Today, visitors can still feel this fascinating blend of cultures while wandering through the ancient streets, exploring centuries-old temples, tasting local specialties, and discovering traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations.
Whether you are visiting Vietnam for the first time or returning to discover more of its treasures, this guide to the top 20 best things to do in Hoi An will help you experience the very best that this enchanting town has to offer.
1. Stroll through the ancient town
Without question, the most iconic experience in Hoi An is simply wandering through its beautiful Ancient Town. Unlike many modern cities, Hoi An has preserved much of its original character. The old quarter remains largely free of heavy traffic, allowing visitors to leisurely explore its narrow streets lined with mustard-yellow buildings, traditional wooden houses, colorful lanterns, and charming cafés.
As you stroll through the town, you will discover historic merchant houses, traditional Chinese assembly halls, ancient temples, art galleries, tailor shops, riverside restaurants, hidden courtyards. The atmosphere changes throughout the day.
Early morning offers peaceful streets and beautiful light for photography. During the afternoon, the town becomes lively with visitors exploring its cultural attractions. In the evening, thousands of lanterns illuminate the streets, creating one of the most magical scenes in Vietnam. Walking without a fixed itinerary is often the best way to appreciate the true beauty of Hoi An.
2. Visit ancient houses, temples and pagodas
One of the most rewarding cultural experiences in Hoi An is visiting its remarkable collection of historic buildings. Many of these structures date back more than 200 years and provide valuable insight into the lives of wealthy merchants who once controlled trade throughout the region.
Tan Ky ancient house
Built over two centuries ago, Tan Ky house is one of the finest examples of traditional merchant architecture in Hoi An. The house combines Vietnamese architecture, Chinese decorative elements, Japanese structural influences.
Visitors can admire intricately carved wooden beams, antique furniture, and historical artifacts preserved by the same family for generations.
Phung Hung house
Another beautifully preserved residence, Phung Hung house reflects the prosperity of Hoi An during its golden age as a trading port. The architecture demonstrates how local builders adapted to seasonal flooding while maintaining elegance and functionality.
Chinese Assembly halls
The Fujian, Cantonese, Hainanese, and Chaozhou Assembly Halls showcase the strong influence of Chinese communities that settled in Hoi An centuries ago. These magnificent buildings feature ornate gates, elaborate carvings, incense-filled courtyards, beautiful temples.
Traditional pagodas
Several peaceful pagodas throughout Hoi An offer visitors opportunities to learn about Vietnamese Buddhism while enjoying serene surroundings. Together, these historic sites reveal the multicultural heritage that makes Hoi An unique.
3. Discover Hoi An at night
If Hoi An is beautiful during the day, it becomes truly magical after sunset. As darkness falls, thousands of colorful lanterns begin to glow throughout the Ancient Town, transforming the entire city into a dreamlike setting. Many visitors consider nighttime the most memorable part of their stay.
Popular evening activities include walking along the Thu Bon river, exploring the night market, watching street performances, enjoying rooftop bars, sampling local street food, taking photographs of illuminated lanterns.
The combination of soft lighting, traditional architecture, and riverside scenery creates a romantic atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Vietnam.
The monthly Lantern Festival
If your visit coincides with the Lantern Festival, you are in for an unforgettable experience. On this special evening, electric lights are turned off in parts of the Ancient Town, leaving only traditional lanterns to illuminate the streets. The result is breathtaking.
4. Take a lantern boat ride on the Thu Bon river
A lantern boat ride is one of the most iconic experiences in Hoi An. As you glide along the calm waters of the Thu Bon river, hundreds of lanterns reflect beautifully on the surface. Small wooden boats are available throughout the evening, especially near An Hoi bridge.
During the ride, visitors often purchase floating lanterns and release them onto the river while making wishes for happiness, good health, prosperity, safe travels.
The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the glow of countless lanterns, creates an unforgettable experience for couples, families, and photographers alike. For the best experience, choose a ride shortly after sunset when the town is fully illuminated.
5. Relax on the beaches of Hoi An
While Hoi An is famous for its cultural heritage, many travelers are surprised to discover that it also boasts some excellent beaches.
An Bang beach
An Bang beach is widely regarded as the best beach near Hoi An. Just a short drive from the Ancient Town, it offers fine golden sand, clear waters, beachfront restaurants, relaxed atmosphere.
Unlike some larger beach resorts in Southeast Asia, An Bang has maintained a charming and authentic character. Visitors can spend hours swimming, sunbathing, reading, or enjoying fresh seafood by the sea.
Ha My beach
Often overlooked by tourists, Ha My beach is ideal for travelers seeking tranquility. Its long stretches of sand and relatively low visitor numbers make it perfect for peaceful walks and relaxation.
Hidden beach
Situated between An Bang and Cua Dai, hidden beach lives up to its name by offering a quieter alternative to more popular coastal areas.
Cua Dai beach
Although coastal erosion has affected parts of the beach over the years, Cua Dai remains an attractive destination for swimming and enjoying beautiful ocean views.
6. Visit Tra Que vegetable village
Located only a few kilometers from Hoi An, Tra Que vegetable village offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. For over 300 years, local farmers have cultivated vegetables and herbs using traditional organic techniques.
Unlike industrial agriculture, Tra Que continues to rely on natural fertilizers derived from seaweed collected nearby. Visitors can participate in various farming activities, including preparing the soil, planting vegetables, watering crops, harvesting herbs.
The village supplies many restaurants throughout Hoi An, particularly those serving traditional dishes that require fresh aromatic herbs. Many tours combine a village visit with cooking classes, allowing guests to experience the journey from farm to table.
7. Explore the My Son Sanctuary
Located approximately 40 kilometers from Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is one of Vietnam’s most important archaeological sites. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son served as the religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom from the 4th to the 13th century.
The site contains dozens of ancient Hindu temples constructed from red bricks and decorated with intricate carvings. Despite damage sustained during various conflicts, many structures remain remarkably impressive.
Visitors can learn about Cham civilization, Hindu influences in Southeast Asia, ancient construction techniques, archaeological preservation.
Traditional Cham dance performances further enhance the experience. For history enthusiasts, My Son is an essential excursion from Hoi An.
8. Discover the cuisine of Hoi An
Food lovers will quickly discover that Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most rewarding culinary destinations. Shaped by the trading history of the ancient port, the agricultural traditions of Quang Nam Province, and the abundance of fresh ingredients from the surrounding countryside and coast, Hoi An cuisine has developed a distinctive character of its own.
From humble noodle shops and bustling market stalls to generations-old family restaurants, eating in Hoi An is much more than simply tasting local dishes. It is a wonderful way to understand the city’s history, daily life, and cultural identity. Here are some specialties you should not miss.
1. Cao Lau
No culinary journey through Hoi An would be complete without tasting Cao Lau, perhaps the dish most closely associated with the ancient town. Its most distinctive feature is its thick, chewy rice noodles, which have a firmer texture than the noodles commonly used in pho or bun.
A traditional bowl combines the noodles with slices of seasoned roasted pork, fresh herbs and leafy greens, bean sprouts, and crunchy toppings such as crispy rice crackers or fried noodle pieces. Unlike a noodle soup, Cao Lau is served with only a small amount of rich, savory sauce or broth at the bottom of the bowl.
The combination of chewy noodles, tender pork, fragrant herbs, and crispy garnishes creates an appealing contrast of flavors and textures. Simple yet remarkably distinctive, Cao Lau reflects the culinary identity of Hoi An and is best enjoyed at a small local restaurant or traditional family-run eatery.
2. White Rose Dumplings
Known locally as Banh Bao Banh Vac, White Rose dumplings are among Hoi An’s most elegant and recognizable specialties. Their English nickname comes from their delicate appearance: thin, translucent rice-flour wrappers are carefully shaped so that the dumplings resemble small white flowers.
The filling generally consists of seasoned shrimp, while some variations may include pork. After being steamed, the dumplings are typically topped with crispy fried shallots and served with a savory-sweet dipping sauce.
Their appeal lies in the contrast between the soft, slightly chewy wrapper, flavorful filling, crunchy shallots, and balanced dipping sauce. Preparing these delicate dumplings requires considerable skill, making White Rose not only a local specialty but also a fine example of Hoi An’s traditional culinary craftsmanship.
3. Mi Quang
Although Mi Quang is enjoyed throughout central Vietnam, its roots are firmly connected to Quang Nam Province, making Hoi An an excellent place to discover this much-loved regional dish.
Mi Quang is prepared with broad rice noodles, traditionally given their characteristic yellow hue with turmeric. Depending on the recipe, they may be accompanied by chicken, pork, shrimp, fish, or a combination of different proteins. Rather than being submerged in broth like pho, the noodles are served with only a modest amount of intensely flavored broth.
Fresh herbs, lettuce, banana blossom, roasted peanuts, and crispy sesame rice crackers often complete the dish. A squeeze of lime and a little fresh chili can be added according to taste.
Rich without being heavy, Mi Quang brings together soft noodles, crunchy peanuts and crackers, aromatic herbs, and concentrated broth. It is an excellent introduction to the rustic yet sophisticated cuisine of central Vietnam.
4. Banh Xeo
With their golden color and irresistible crunch, Banh Xeo are another specialty worth trying during your stay in Hoi An. Their name roughly refers to the sizzling sound made when the batter hits the hot pan.
These savory pancakes are generally prepared from rice-flour batter, often colored with turmeric, then filled with ingredients such as shrimp, slices of pork, and bean sprouts. They are cooked until the exterior becomes thin and crisp while the filling remains juicy and flavorful.
The traditional way to enjoy Banh Xeo makes the experience even more interesting. Pieces of pancake are wrapped with fresh herbs and vegetables, sometimes using rice paper, before being dipped into a flavorful local sauce.
The contrast between the crispy pancake, fresh greens, tender filling, and dipping sauce makes every bite wonderfully balanced. Eating Banh Xeo with your hands at a lively local eatery is also a simple way to experience the convivial side of Vietnamese dining.
5. Fresh Seafood
Hoi An lies only a short distance from the sea, with beaches and fishing communities stretching along the coast toward Da Nang. This location gives the city easy access to an impressive variety of fresh seafood.
Depending on the season and the restaurant, you may find prawns, squid, clams, oysters, crabs, scallops, and different varieties of locally caught fish. Seafood can be grilled over charcoal, steamed with lemongrass, stir-fried with garlic, cooked in a hotpot, or prepared with chili, tamarind, and other Vietnamese seasonings.
For a more local experience, head toward An Bang Beach or Cua Dai, where numerous restaurants specialize in freshly prepared seafood. Choosing several dishes to share in the Vietnamese style is an excellent way to sample different flavors while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the coast.
Where to Experience Hoi An’s Local Food
One of the pleasures of discovering Hoi An cuisine is that memorable food experiences are not limited to sophisticated restaurants. Some of the most authentic dishes can be found in modest family-run eateries, neighborhood food stalls, traditional markets, and small restaurants hidden along the lanes of the ancient town.
Hoi An Central Market is particularly interesting in the morning, when vendors sell noodles, herbs, vegetables, tropical fruits, spices, seafood, and freshly prepared dishes. In the evening, the streets around the old town become livelier, offering plenty of opportunities to sample local snacks and street food.
For travelers who want to go beyond simply eating, joining a Hoi An cooking class can also be rewarding. Many experiences combine a market visit with an introduction to Vietnamese ingredients before teaching you how to prepare several regional dishes yourself.
Ultimately, discovering the cuisine of Hoi An means exploring the city through its flavors. From a fragrant bowl of Cao Lau and delicate White Rose dumplings to rustic Mi Quang, crispy Banh Xeo, and freshly caught seafood, every dish reveals another facet of Quang Nam’s culinary heritage. Take the time to leave the busiest streets, follow the aromas coming from a family kitchen, and sit down where the locals eat, you may find that some of your finest memories of Hoi An begin around a simple table.
9. Explore Hoi An central market
Located in the heart of Hoi An, close to the Thu Bon River and the historic Old Town, Hoi An Central Market is one of the liveliest places to experience the everyday rhythm of this charming heritage town. More than simply a place to shop, the market offers visitors an authentic glimpse into local life, traditional cuisine, and the trading culture that has shaped Hoi An for generations.
Discover the atmosphere of a traditional local market
A visit to Hoi An Central Market is an excellent way to observe daily life beyond the town’s famous lantern-lit streets and historic houses. From early morning, local vendors arrive with baskets filled with fresh produce, while residents come to shop for ingredients for their daily meals.
Walking through the narrow market aisles, visitors will find a colorful variety of products, including tropical fruits and seasonal vegetables; freshly caught fish, shrimp, squid, and other seafood; aromatic herbs, spices, dried ingredients, and local condiments; noodles, rice products, tofu, and other everyday staples; traditional cakes, sweets, and snacks; and handicrafts, clothing, household goods, and souvenirs.
The lively conversations between vendors and customers, the aromas of fresh herbs and cooked dishes, and the colorful displays create a distinctly Vietnamese market atmosphere.
Taste Hoi An’s local specialties
One of the highlights of Hoi An Central Market is its food section, where small stalls serve a wide range of local dishes at reasonable prices. Sitting on a simple stool beside local diners is a wonderful opportunity to discover the culinary traditions of Central Vietnam in an informal and authentic setting.
Depending on the stall and time of day, visitors may have the chance to try some of Hoi An’s best-known specialties, such as cao lau, mi Quang, com ga Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice), banh mi, banh xeo, and different types of Vietnamese noodles, dumplings, and sweet desserts.
The market is particularly interesting in the morning, when ingredients are at their freshest and local activity is at its peak.
Experience authentic local life
What makes Hoi An Central Market especially rewarding is the opportunity to observe a side of the town that remains closely connected to everyday life. Despite Hoi An’s international popularity, the market continues to serve local families, cooks, restaurant owners, and small businesses.
Visitors can watch vendors preparing ingredients, bargaining with regular customers, arranging fresh produce, cleaning fish, or serving steaming bowls of noodles. These simple scenes provide an interesting insight into Vietnamese food culture and the important role traditional markets continue to play in local communities.
A colorful place for photography
Hoi An Central Market is also an appealing destination for travelers interested in street and travel photography. Piles of tropical fruit, baskets of fresh herbs, colorful spices, seafood displays, traditional conical hats, and animated exchanges between vendors create countless opportunities for spontaneous photographs.
For softer light and a particularly lively atmosphere, early morning is generally the best time to visit. Photographers should nevertheless remain respectful, avoid obstructing vendors and customers, and ask permission before taking close-up portraits whenever appropriate.
Practical tips for visiting Hoi An Central Market
Allow around 30 minutes to one hour to explore the market at a relaxed pace, or longer if you plan to stop for breakfast or lunch. Wear comfortable shoes, keep small-denomination Vietnamese dong handy for food and small purchases, and be prepared for narrow, busy aisles, especially during the morning rush.
For travelers wishing to understand Hoi An beyond its UNESCO-listed architecture, Hoi An Central Market offers a simple yet memorable immersion into local life. Combining fresh produce, traditional food, everyday encounters, and a lively riverside atmosphere, it is an excellent place to experience the flavors, colors, and daily rhythms of this historic trading town.
10. Visit Thanh Ha pottery village
Among the most fascinating cultural experiences in Hoi An is a visit to Thanh Ha pottery village, a traditional craft village located about three kilometers west of the Ancient Town.
Founded more than 500 years ago, Thanh Ha became famous for producing high-quality pottery that was once supplied to royal courts, merchants, and households throughout Central Vietnam.
Today, the village continues to preserve techniques passed down through generations.
As you walk through the village, you will see artisans skillfully transforming clay into bowls and plates, decorative vases, ceramic sculptures, traditional household items, souvenirs and ornaments.
One of the highlights is the opportunity to participate in a pottery workshop. Visitors can sit beside local craftsmen and try shaping clay on a traditional pottery wheel.
Even beginners usually leave with a unique handmade souvenir.
Thanh Ha terracotta park
Another attraction worth visiting is the terracotta park, a fascinating museum showcasing ceramic art and miniature replicas of famous world landmarks.
Visitors can admire scaled-down versions of the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, the Taj Mahal, Vietnamese architectural treasures. The park provides a wonderful combination of art, education, and cultural discovery.
For travelers interested in traditional craftsmanship, Thanh Ha pottery village is undoubtedly one of the top 20 best things to do in Hoi An.
11. Explore the Cham islands
Located approximately 15 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An, the Cham islands offer a completely different side of the region. This stunning archipelago consists of eight small islands surrounded by turquoise waters and rich marine ecosystems.
Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Cu Lao Cham biosphere reserve, the islands are renowned for their biodiversity and pristine natural beauty.
Snorkeling and diving
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are home to colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular underwater activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, marine observation. The visibility is often excellent during the dry season, making it one of Vietnam's best destinations for underwater exploration.
Beautiful beaches
Several beautiful beaches can be found throughout the islands, including Bai Chong, Bai Ong, Bai Huong. Visitors can relax on white sandy beaches while enjoying spectacular ocean views.
Authentic fishing villages
Beyond the beaches, the Cham islands offer an authentic glimpse into traditional island life. Local fishing communities continue to maintain customs and lifestyles that have remained largely unchanged for generations. A day trip to the Cham islands perfectly complements the cultural experiences found in Hoi An's Ancient Town.
12. See the Hoi An Memories Show
One of the most impressive performances in Vietnam, the Hoi An Memories Show has become a must-see attraction for visitors. This spectacular outdoor production takes place on a massive stage covering more than 25,000 square meters and features hundreds of performers.
Unlike a traditional theater performance, the show combines music, dance, visual effects, historical storytelling, traditional costumes. The performance traces the evolution of Hoi An from a small fishing village to a thriving international trading port.
What makes the show special ?
The production highlights the founding of Hoi An, maritime trade routes, cultural exchanges, traditional Vietnamese lifestyles, historical milestones.
The use of lighting, costumes, and choreography creates a truly immersive experience. Even visitors who know little about Vietnamese history find the performance captivating.
For those seeking an unforgettable evening activity, attending the Hoi An Memories Show ranks among the top 20 best things to do in Hoi An.
13. Experience a Lune Production Show
For lovers of contemporary performing arts, a Lune Production show offers a unique cultural experience. Lune Production has gained international recognition for combining traditional Vietnamese culture with modern artistic expression.
Their performances incorporate bamboo circus techniques, contemporary dance, live music, acrobatic performances, storytelling.
The famous A O Show
Perhaps the company's best-known production, A O Show portrays rural and urban Vietnamese life through a blend of circus arts and theatrical creativity. Performers use simple bamboo props to create astonishing visual effects.
Teh Dar
Another remarkable production, Teh Dar celebrates the cultures of Vietnam's Central Highlands through music, dance, and acrobatics. The performances are both entertaining and culturally enriching, making them an excellent addition to any Hoi An itinerary.
14. Get tailor-made clothes
Hoi An is widely recognized as one of the best places in the world for custom-made clothing. The town's tailoring tradition dates back centuries and remains one of its most famous attractions.
Visitors can have virtually any garment made to measure, including business suits, evening dresses, shirts, jackets, wedding attire, leather shoes, handbags.
Why is tailoring so popular ?
Several factors contribute to Hoi An's reputation skilled craftsmanship, competitive pricing, quick turnaround times, wide selection of fabrics, personalized service.
Many tailors can complete garments within 24 to 48 hours. Customers typically undergo multiple fittings to ensure a perfect fit.
Whether you need a formal suit or simply want a unique souvenir, commissioning custom clothing remains one of the most rewarding experiences in Hoi An.
15. Join a Vietnamese cooking class
Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide, and Hoi An offers some of the country's finest cooking classes. These experiences provide far more than just recipes. Participants gain insight into local ingredients, culinary traditions, cooking techniques, regional flavors, food culture.
Typical cooking class experience
Many programs begin with a visit to the local market where instructors explain various herbs, spices, vegetables, and seafood. Afterward, participants return to a cooking school or countryside venue to prepare several traditional dishes.
Popular recipes include Cao Lau, White Rose dumplings, fresh spring rolls, Banh Xeo, Mi Quang. At the end of the session, everyone enjoys the meal they have prepared.
For food enthusiasts, this hands-on activity is one of the most memorable things to do in Hoi An.
16. Join a traditional craft workshop
Beyond its yellow-walled houses, lantern-lit streets and centuries-old architecture, Hoi An is also a wonderful place to discover Vietnam’s traditional craftsmanship. The town and its surrounding villages have long been home to skilled artisans working with bamboo, fabric, wood, paper and other natural materials.
Joining a traditional craft workshop is therefore more than simply making a souvenir. It gives you an opportunity to meet local craftspeople, observe their techniques, understand the patience behind handmade objects and create something of your own. These hands-on experiences are particularly enjoyable for couples, families with children and travelers looking for a deeper connection with local culture.
1. Lantern-Making workshops
Colorful lanterns have become one of the most recognizable symbols of Hoi An. Hanging from old houses, restaurants, temples and market stalls, they give the historic center its distinctive atmosphere, especially after sunset.
During a lantern-making workshop in Hoi An, local craftspeople introduce participants to the basic stages involved in creating these traditional decorations. Depending on the workshop, you may learn how to assemble or shape a bamboo frame, choose the fabric, attach it carefully to the structure and add the finishing touches.
Silk or silk-like fabrics are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing each participant to personalize their lantern. Some workshops also explain the cultural significance of lanterns and how the craft developed alongside Hoi An’s history as an international trading port.
At the end of the session, you can usually take your handmade lantern home—a personal and practical souvenir that carries much more meaning than a mass-produced object.
2. Bamboo Craft workshops
Bamboo has played an important role in Vietnamese daily life for generations. Strong, flexible, fast-growing and widely available, it has traditionally been used to make everything from baskets, furniture and farming tools to household utensils and decorative objects.
A bamboo craft workshop offers an interesting introduction to this remarkably versatile natural material. Local artisans demonstrate how bamboo is selected, cut, shaped, split or woven before being transformed into functional or decorative items.
Depending on the workshop and its duration, participants may create a small basket, household accessory, decorative object or another simple bamboo product. The experience requires patience and attention to detail, giving visitors a better appreciation of the manual skills that experienced craftspeople have developed over many years.
It is also an excellent activity for travelers interested in sustainable craftsmanship and the traditional use of locally available natural materials.
3. Traditional painting classes
For travelers who enjoy drawing, painting or simply trying something creative, a traditional painting class in Hoi An provides another way to explore Vietnamese culture.
These workshops vary considerably according to the studio and instructor. Some introduce participants to decorative motifs inspired by Vietnamese landscapes, village scenes, flowers, traditional architecture or everyday life. Others focus on particular materials or contemporary interpretations of Vietnamese artistic traditions.
With guidance from a local artist, you can learn basic techniques related to composition, brushwork, colors and motifs before creating your own artwork. Beginners are generally welcome, so previous artistic experience is rarely necessary.
Rather than buying a ready-made souvenir, you leave with something you have created yourself and perhaps a new understanding of how Vietnamese artists interpret nature, daily life and cultural heritage.
4. Fan-making workshops
The traditional hand fan is both a practical object and an elegant cultural symbol found across several Asian societies, including Vietnam. Historically used to provide relief from the tropical heat, fans have also appeared in traditional performances, ceremonies, decorative arts and everyday life.
During a fan-making workshop in Hoi An, participants can discover the basic craftsmanship involved in assembling and decorating a traditional folding or fixed fan, depending on the workshop offered.
You may learn about the structure of the fan, prepare or assemble its different components and then decorate the surface with flowers, landscapes, calligraphy-inspired designs or other Vietnamese motifs. Local artisans often provide guidance while encouraging participants to develop their own designs.
The finished fan is lightweight and easy to carry home, making it an attractive handmade souvenir as well as a reminder of your time in Hoi An.
Why Join a craft workshop in Hoi An?
Traditional craft workshops add a human dimension to a visit to Hoi An. Instead of simply observing finished products in shops, you discover the work, precision and time required to make them.
They also create opportunities for direct exchanges with local craftspeople and can contribute to keeping traditional skills economically relevant. For families, workshops provide children with an entertaining hands-on introduction to Vietnamese culture; for adults, they offer a peaceful break from sightseeing and a chance to slow down.
Whether you choose lantern making, bamboo craftsmanship, painting or fan making, the most valuable part of the experience is often not the object you bring home, but the story, techniques and encounters behind it. A handmade lantern, painted fan or bamboo creation then becomes more than a souvenir: it becomes a personal memory of Hoi An and its living craft traditions.
17. Take a wood carving workshop
For travelers who enjoy creative and hands-on cultural experiences, joining a wood carving workshop in Hoi An offers an interesting way to discover the craftsmanship that has shaped the architecture and decorative arts of Central Vietnam for generations.
Discover traditional woodworking skills
Woodworking has long played an important role in the cultural heritage of Hoi An and the surrounding Quang Nam region. Local craftsmen have traditionally produced everything from household furniture and religious sculptures to decorative panels, doors, columns and finely carved architectural details for temples, communal houses and traditional residences.
During an introductory workshop, participants can become familiar with several fundamental aspects of the craft, including selecting and preparing suitable pieces of wood; handling basic carving tools safely and correctly; sketching or transferring a pattern onto the wooden surface; learning simple cutting, chiseling and shaping techniques; discovering traditional Vietnamese decorative motifs; and sanding and finishing a small handmade object.
Create your own wooden souvenir
Under the guidance of an experienced artisan, you can gradually transform a simple piece of wood into a small decorative object or artwork. No previous woodworking experience is usually necessary, making the activity accessible to beginners as well as families with older children, depending on the workshop.
More than simply making a souvenir, the experience encourages you to slow down and appreciate the patience, precision and manual skill required in traditional craftsmanship. It also creates an opportunity to meet local artisans and learn about techniques that are increasingly challenged by mass production.
A wood carving workshop in Hoi An is therefore an excellent choice for travelers looking for a meaningful cultural activity and a handmade keepsake with a personal story behind it.
18. Take a bicycle tour around Hoi An
Leaving the busy streets of the Ancient Town behind and exploring the countryside by bicycle is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience another side of Hoi An. Within just a few kilometers, historic streets give way to rice fields, vegetable gardens, waterways, coconut palms and peaceful villages.
The surrounding countryside is predominantly flat, so cycling is generally accessible to travelers with a basic level of fitness. It is particularly pleasant in the early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are milder and rural life is at its most atmospheric.
Cycle through the countryside
Depending on the route, a bicycle tour may take you along narrow village lanes and quiet paths through green rice paddies and agricultural fields; vegetable gardens and herb farms; water coconut groves; traditional villages and family homes; riverside communities and fishing areas; and small local markets and countryside temples.
One of the most popular cycling destinations is Tra Que Vegetable Village, where generations of farmers have cultivated herbs and vegetables using traditional agricultural methods. Another rewarding area is Cam Thanh, famous for its nipa palm waterways and rural scenery.
Meet local communities along the way
The real pleasure of cycling around Hoi An lies not only in the landscapes but also in the encounters. Guided tours may include stops at family workshops, farms or village homes, providing opportunities to observe everyday activities and learn more about local livelihoods.
Traveling by bicycle also allows you to reach narrow country lanes that cars and larger vehicles cannot easily access. With no engine noise and minimal environmental impact, cycling provides a slower and more intimate way to appreciate the countryside.
For travelers who want to combine gentle exercise, beautiful landscapes and authentic encounters, a bicycle tour around Hoi An deserves a place among the best things to do during a stay in the city.
19. Eat Cao Lau
No culinary journey through Hoi An would be complete without a bowl of Cao Lau, the city's signature noodle dish. Deeply associated with the history and identity of this former trading port, Cao Lau is one of the specialties that distinguishes Hoi An from other gastronomic destinations in Vietnam.
What makes Cao Lau special ?
At first glance, Cao Lau may resemble other Vietnamese noodle dishes, but its combination of textures and flavors is quite distinctive. A traditional bowl generally brings together thick, firm noodles, slices of seasoned pork, fresh herbs and greens, bean sprouts, crispy elements and a small amount of rich savory sauce rather than being served as a noodle soup.
The noodles are particularly important. They have a pleasantly chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with tender pork, aromatic herbs and crunchy toppings.
One of the best-known stories surrounding Cao Lau concerns the water used to prepare its noodles. Local tradition often links the dish to water from Ba Le Well, an old well in Hoi An. The precise historical role of this water is difficult to establish, and recipes vary among producers, but the story remains part of the culinary folklore surrounding this emblematic dish.
Cao Lau also reflects Hoi An's history as an international trading port. Although various theories connect its development with foreign culinary influences, it has evolved into a distinctly local specialty and should be appreciated first and foremost as part of Hoi An's own gastronomic heritage.
Where to eat Cao Lau in Hoi An ?
You do not need to visit an upscale restaurant to enjoy good Cao Lau. It can be found in traditional markets, small family-run eateries, local restaurants and street-food stalls throughout Hoi An.
For the most rewarding experience, look for places popular with local residents and try the dish freshly prepared. The balance between chewy noodles, savory pork, fragrant herbs and crisp toppings is best appreciated when all the ingredients retain their individual textures.
Tasting Cao Lau in Hoi An is more than simply trying another Vietnamese dish. It offers a delicious introduction to the city's history, local ingredients and culinary traditions, making it an essential experience for food lovers.
20. Visit the Japanese covered bridge
Standing in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, the Japanese covered bridge, known locally as Chùa Cầu, is the city's most recognizable architectural landmark and one of the enduring symbols of its multicultural past.
Built by Hoi An's Japanese community around the turn of the 17th century, the bridge is traditionally associated with the area once inhabited by Japanese merchants and the neighboring Chinese quarter. Its presence recalls a period when Hoi An was a flourishing international trading port attracting merchants from Japan, China and other parts of Asia and beyond.
Admire its distinctive architecture
Although modest in size, the Japanese Covered Bridge is remarkable for its harmonious design. Its principal features include a covered wooden passage, tiled roof, decorative details and a small shrine incorporated into the structure.
One particularly interesting detail is that the shrine is traditionally associated with Bắc Đế Trấn Võ, or the Jade Emperor of the North (Xuanwu in Chinese tradition), a protective deity believed to help guard the community against natural calamities. This religious element distinguishes the monument from a purely functional bridge.
Over the centuries, the structure has undergone several restorations, which have inevitably introduced changes while preserving its historical and symbolic importance. Most recently, the bridge underwent a major restoration completed in 2024, helping safeguard the monument for future generations.
Discover a symbol of Hoi An's multicultural heritage
More than an attractive photo stop, the Japanese Covered Bridge embodies the commercial and cultural exchanges that shaped Hoi An during its prosperous trading era. Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese influences came together here, contributing to the unique urban heritage visitors can still experience today.
The bridge forms part of the Hoi An Ancient Town UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its exceptionally well-preserved character as a Southeast Asian trading port dating principally from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
Visit early in the morning if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, when the surrounding streets are less crowded and the soft light highlights the old façades. In the evening, lanterns and illuminated streets create an entirely different ambience.
Whether you come for its history, architecture or symbolism, visiting the Japanese covered bridge is an essential part of discovering Hoi An and a fitting conclusion to the top 20 best things to do in Hoi An.
Top 20 best things to do in Hoi An
The top 20 best things to do in Hoi An showcase why this enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to captivate travelers from around the world. From wandering through lantern-lit streets and exploring centuries-old temples to relaxing on beautiful beaches, cycling through picturesque countryside, discovering traditional crafts, and savoring exceptional cuisine, Hoi An offers an extraordinary variety of experiences.
What truly distinguishes Hoi An is its unique ability to blend history, culture, nature, and modern hospitality into one unforgettable destination. Whether you spend a few days or an entire week exploring the city and its surroundings, every moment reveals another layer of its charm.
For travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters, stunning scenery, delicious food, and timeless beauty, Hoi An remains one of the most rewarding destinations not only in Vietnam but in all of Southeast Asia. It is a place where ancient traditions continue to thrive, where lanterns illuminate centuries of history, and where every visitor leaves with memories that last a lifetime.
