Hello and welcome! Let’s discover some amazing places.
Get ready to step into a different world. Step into a world where everything feels calm—where the river reflects golden houses and the night sky is brightened by a sea of glimmering lanterns, not electric lights. Welcome to Hoi An, Vietnam’s most enchanting and atmospheric town.
Everyone knows Hoi An for its charming Old Town and custom-made clothes, but we’re going to take you off the beaten path to discover its best-kept secrets. Let us unlock the secrets of Hoi An for you. We’ll help you find the secret spots, the local culture, and the unforgettable moments that will make your trip special. So, let’s explore the extraordinary together.
10 Unique Things to Do in Hoi An
1. Explore Hoi An’s Ancient Town at Sunrise
The magic of Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a 24/7 affair; it’s not just for the evenings.
Everyone loves the lanterns, but there’s a secret to Hoi An’s beauty: its sunrise. Wake up early and watch the town come to life in the soft morning light for a unique experience. As the first light of day touches the rooftops, the ancient streets are wonderfully quiet and serene. You’ll find yourself sharing the cobblestone lanes with locals as they begin their day—setting up food stalls, sweeping their doorsteps, and preparing for the hours ahead. In the early morning, this place has a certain kind of charm. With the soft light and cool air, it’s the perfect time for a quiet, unforgettable walk and to snap some stunning photos without the crowds. This is the perfect time to truly feel the timeless rhythm of Hoi An before the daytime bustle begins.
2. Take a vintage Vespa tour of the countryside
For a truly unique experience, skip the usual sights and discover the soul of Hoi An on a vintage Vespa, venturing deep into the scenic countryside. This isn’t just a ride; it’s a journey into the heart of local life. Let the wind rush past you as you journey through stunning green rice paddies, where farmers in traditional conical hats are a common sight. The tour takes you to hidden spots you’d never find on your own, from quiet fishing villages where the day’s catch is brought in, to local farms where you can see how traditional crafts are made. This is a wonderful way to connect with the local people and experience the peaceful, daily life of Hoi An.
3. Learn the secrets of local cuisine with a cooking class
Hoi An’s cooking classes aren’t merely about ingredients; they’re an intimate and authentic way to connect with the town’s culture, one flavorful dish at a time. The experience often starts with a vibrant trip to a bustling market, where you’ll learn to select the freshest ingredients and spices, a true skill of Vietnamese cuisine. Afterward, you’ll get hands-on experience, guided by a local chef, to create famous regional dishes like cao lầu, a unique noodle dish, and crispy bánh xèo, savory pancakes. More than just a meal, this experience is a fun, hands-on way to connect with Hoi An’s rich food traditions and carry its flavors with you long after you’ve left. Among the many things to do in Hoi An, this is one of the most delicious.
4. Try your hand at a basket boat ride
Paddle through the winding waterways of Cam Thanh on a thrilling basket boat ride. Climb into a traditional, round “thung chai” boat and let a local guide paddle you through a lush forest of water coconut palms. The ride is both beautiful and entertaining. Feel the thrill as your guide performs a mesmerizing spinning dance with the boat, twirling to the music’s rhythm, or instead, surrender to a tranquil journey, drifting peacefully and absorbing the calm beauty all around you. This is a truly unique way to experience the local environment and have some fun.
5. Get something tailor-made
Hoi An is famous for its incredible tailor shops, with hundreds of options to choose from. You can get a custom-made suit, dress, jacket, or even shoes created in as little as 24 to 48 hours. The process is simple and fun. Just bring a picture of the design you love, or flip through the shop’s catalog for inspiration. After you decide, you can explore our vast selection of high-quality fabrics—from rich silks to airy linens and delicate wools. After a quick fitting, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind, perfectly fitted garment to take home with you. It’s a great opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir and get a perfectly tailored piece of clothing.
6. Catch a cultural performance at the Lune Center
Step into a magical night at the Lune Center and witness a beautiful cultural show presented within a breathtaking bamboo dome. Prepare for an incredible show that blends amazing acrobatics with live music and a compelling story. The show, often called “Teh Dar” or “A O Show,” draws inspiration from Vietnam’s diverse ethnic minority cultures, offering a deeper, modern look into the country’s rich heritage. You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for Vietnamese art and culture after this unique and enchanting experience.
Discover the history of Vietnamese photography at Rehahn Gallery
Explore Vietnam’s vibrant history as it’s vividly brought to life at the Réhahn Gallery. The gallery showcases the “Precious Heritage Collection” by French photographer Réhahn, and admission is free. The beautiful photos and colorful traditional costumes on display are the culmination of a decade-long project to document all 54 of Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups. The country’s rich diversity comes to life in this breathtaking journey, offering profound insight into the individual stories of its people. A visit here is a beautiful and inspiring experience for all art and culture enthusiasts and one of the most enlightening things to do in Hoi An.
Go on a “secret” cocktail or food tour
Explore Hoi An’s hidden culinary gems and vibrant nightlife on a secret food and drink tour. Forget the typical tourist trail; these unique tours take you deep into the city’s secret alleys and quiet streets. This secret food tour is your ticket to a delicious adventure, where you’ll taste dishes with a history at hidden, family-run eateries and street food stalls. For a great night out, try a secret cocktail tour. Experience the city like a local on a stylish pub crawl that takes you off the beaten path to cool neighborhood bars. It’s the perfect way to get a true taste of Hoi An’s local flavor, both in its food and its vibrant nightlife.
Visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village
Located just a short and pleasant bike ride from Hoi An’s Ancient Town, the Tra Que Vegetable Village is a hidden gem and a tranquil escape from the bustling city. More than a destination for onlookers, it’s an arena for doers. The air is full of the fresh scents of basil, mint, and cilantro as you take a walk through the lively herb gardens. Friendly local farmers are often happy to share their stories and techniques. Discover how they perform their daily chores, such as using ancient tools to cultivate the land, plant seeds, and irrigate their crops. Enjoy a true farm-to-table experience, where you’ll pick fresh vegetables straight from the field and then transform them into a delicious and healthy lunch. It’s a peaceful and authentic glimpse into the agricultural heart of Hoi An. This is one of the most rewarding things to do in Hoi An for those seeking a hands-on experience.
Explore the Thu Bon River by boat at night
It’s an unforgettable experience to float down the Thu Bon River at night. Glide along the water in a traditional wooden boat and see Hoi An’s famous lanterns light up the night. The whole riverbank glows with a soft, warm light, creating a truly romantic and peaceful atmosphere. For a small fee, you can buy a paper lantern from a local and gently place it on the water. As you engage in this age-old custom, your small light bobbles on the river with hundreds of others. This is one of the most classic things to do in Hoi An at night.
My Insider Tips
- Go during the low season. If you can, visit during the cooler, dry months of February to April to avoid the extreme heat and crowds of the peak season (July and August).
- Embrace bicycles. Many hotels offer free bikes, which are the perfect way to get around Hoi An. The town is very bike-friendly, and it’s a great way to explore the countryside and get to nearby beaches like An Bang Beach.
- Stay hydrated and prepared. The climate in Hoi An can be very hot and humid. Bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent, especially for evenings by the river. Among the many things to do in Hoi An, this is one you’ll want to be ready for.
- Be a savvy shopper. Bargaining is expected at markets. Start with a price around half of what the vendor initially asks for and negotiate from there.
- Walk or bike the Ancient Town. The historic center is a car-free zone, making it very walkable. If you’re staying slightly outside the center, a Grab (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber) or a bicycle is the best way to get around.
- Have some small cash on hand. While many larger establishments accept credit cards, smaller vendors, street food stalls, and market stalls will require cash. It’s good to have small denominations of Vietnamese dong (VND).
Hoi An’s pace is a gentle waltz, where the air is scented with fresh herbs, the quiet hum of a tailor’s machine is the soundtrack, and colorful lanterns sway like silent dancers on the water. These aren’t just sights; they are the heart of a town that lives and breathes in every moment. So as you leave, carry a piece of this magic with you. As the saying goes, “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.”
