Beloved for its breathtaking natural landscapes, unique cultural heritage and diverse culinary offerings, Vietnam has been, without a doubt, one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations in recent years. You may very well have visited the food paradise of Hanoi, and shopped to your heart’s content in Ho Chi Minh. Yet, beyond the typical tourist experiences, Vietnam still has much to offer. In turn, the historic municipality of Hoi An beckons.
A far cry from the bustle and action of the country’s major cities, Hoi An offers up a slower pace of life—perfect for a quiet respite. The city, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient town, immortalised and flawlessly preserved since its days as a sea port from the 15th to 19th centuries. Even a leisurely stroll through its streets unveils old-world architecture and the enthralling whispers of an era bygone. Steeped in rich history, its yellow buildings—which represent royalty, prosperity and happiness—have become an integral part of Hoi An’s allure. That, paired with its trove of crafts, including tailoring, ceramics and lanterns, for instance, makes it a must-see destination for arts and culture lovers.
The best part? Hoi An is easily accessible, just one hour from central Vietnam’s famed beachfront hub Da Nang. From a slow cup of rich Vietnamese coffee by the water, to visiting a Hindu temple that belonged to an ancient civilisation, here is everything you need to do on your trip to Hoi An.
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Drink: Hoi An Roastery Espresso & Coffee House
For true coffee aficionados, this local outpost offers a solid cuppa that is sure to lift your spirits. From the regular joe menu items, like lattes, black coffees and teas, to your favourite extra-strength Vietnamese coffee drinks, this roastery is the perfect spot for an early-morning pitstop. From the expansive menu, we recommend the egg coffee for its rich sweetness, balanced by espresso that holds long and steady.
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See: My Son Sanctuary
For a quick day trip out of Hoi An’s main town district, head to My Son Sanctuary. The grounds are home to one of the most historic Hindu temples in Vietnam, once belonging to the Cham civilisation from the 4th to 13th centuries CE. Marvel at the temple’s structures that have (quite literally) stood the test of time, and even enjoy a folk dance performance that pays tribute to the original inhabitants of the temple.
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Drink: Enjoy herbal tea at Mót
One of Hoi An’s most beloved beverage stalls, Mót offers visitors a break from the typical coffee offerings of Vietnamese cafes. Punctuate your day of exploration with the signature Mót’s Tea, a refreshing herbal tea, made with honey and a touch of citrus zest. To add to the experience (and that perfect Instagram-moment), the light tea comes adorned with a lotus leaf and petal, infusing the beverage with a subtle earthiness.
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Do: Spend an evening by the river
By day, the city of Hoi An is a peaceful town that centres on the river at its core. As nighttime falls, Hoi An transforms and takes on a new lease of life. Locals release small floating lanterns into the river, and buildings are lit up with silk lanterns, adding a magical feel to the quaint municipality. Enjoy a boat ride on the water (sans the tourist inflation that you might find in other cities of Vietnam), and quietly make a wish for good fortune and luck.
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Do: Ceramic-making at Thanh Ha Pottery Village Workshop
One of the best ways to experience the inner workings of Hoi An is through a pottery workshop at Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Ceramics have long been a cornerstone of the city’s heritage, with buildings made with bricks painstakingly moulded from native soil and clay. There might be no better souvenir, then, that will allow you to take home a piece of Hoi An’s history than a hands-on workshop, guided by local artisans.
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Eat: Hoi An delicacies at Morning Glory Original
Savour the best of Vietnamese cuisine by the water at this cosy dining spot. Beyond the Vietnamese classics of bánh mì and pho, expand your palate with some Hoi An specialties, like the shrimp-loaded White Rose Dumplings, or Cao Lầu, thick noodles topped with juicy pork, crispy croutons and local herbs. Though situated in the more tourist-driven part of town, prices are more than justified when you factor in the depth of flavour and generous portion sizes.
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Do: Visit the Hoi An Night Market
The beating heart of Hoi An is surely in its night market. Lining the main streets and stretching even into the smaller alleyways, the night market offers a slice of everything the historic city has to offer. From street food stalls to souvenirs and even tailoring services that promise quick turnover, it’s almost too easy to get swept up in the action of Hoi An’s nightlife scene.
