Things to Do in Hoi An 2025 Travel Tips

Things to Do in Hoi An 2025

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most beloved cities, known for its timeless beauty, rich culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re visiting for a short getaway or a longer stay, Hoi An offers an array of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. From its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town to the peaceful riverside and hidden beaches, this city has something for everyone.(Things to Do in Hoi An 2025)

What Makes Hoi An Special?

Hoi An is not just any tourist destination—it’s a place where history meets modern-day charm. The city has retained its old-world allure with perfectly preserved architecture, narrow winding streets, and lantern-lit nights. Originally a busy trading port, Hoi An still carries echoes of its diverse past, with influences from Chinese, Japanese, French, and even Indian cultures.

This unique blend of heritage, culture, and nature creates a perfect mix for travelers who seek both relaxation and adventure.

If you’re wondering what to do in Hoi An, you’re in the right place. Let’s take a closer look at the best experiences this city has to offer.

Top Things to Do in Hoi An

Stroll Through the Ancient Town

One of the first things you should do in Hoi An is to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town. Its narrow streets, pastel-colored buildings, and vibrant street markets offer a window into the past. You’ll find traditional wooden houses, old temples, and historic shops selling handmade goods. Don’t forget to take a walk along the river, where you can see the iconic wooden boats floating peacefully.

Key highlights:

Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu), a beautiful structure with a fascinating history.

Wander through Hoi An Market, where you can find local crafts, fresh produce, and street food.

Discover the Tan Ky House, a well-preserved merchant’s house that offers a glimpse into the city’s trading past.

Take a Cooking Class

Vietnamese cuisine is a huge part of Hoi An’s appeal. The city is famous for its culinary traditions, and there’s no better way to experience it than by joining a cooking class. You’ll visit a local market to pick fresh ingredients, learn how to make dishes like cao lầu (Hoi An’s signature noodle dish) and white rose dumplings, and enjoy your creations afterward.

A cooking class gives you a hands-on experience and a deeper connection with the food and culture. Plus, you’ll leave with a recipe book to try out at home!

Relax on An Bang Beach

After exploring the town, head to An Bang Beach, a serene stretch of sand just a short drive from the center of Hoi An. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and clear blue waters, An Bang is the perfect spot to unwind. You can lounge on the beach, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the nearby beachside restaurants, or take part in water sports like paddleboarding.

Tip: An Bang Beach is quieter than other beaches in Vietnam, making it ideal for a peaceful day by the sea.

Experience Hoi An at Night

Hoi An truly comes alive after the sun sets. The streets of the Ancient Town are illuminated by colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Take a boat ride along the river or stroll through the lantern-lit streets to admire the view. You can also visit Hoi An Night Market for souvenirs, snacks, and handmade crafts.

Key highlights:

Visit Cau An Hoi Bridge to get a great view of the lantern-lit river.

Stop by the lantern-making workshops to see how the city’s famous lanterns are crafted.

Explore the Countryside by Bike

For a more active adventure, rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside surrounding Hoi An. Ride through rice paddies, quaint villages, and lush forests. You’ll get a chance to see rural Vietnam up close and meet the friendly locals who call this area home.

Cycling through Hoi An is not just a fun activity; it’s also a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Visit the My Son Sanctuary

Located just outside Hoi An, the My Son Sanctuary is an ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 13th centuries. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s ancient history. The site is set in a lush green valley, making it a peaceful and picturesque spot to explore.

Whether you’re interested in history or architecture, the My Son Sanctuary is a must-visit day trip from Hoi An.

Try Hoi An’s Famous Street Food

No visit to Hoi An is complete without sampling its street food. The city’s food scene is legendary, with countless dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam. Some must-try dishes include:

Cao Lầu: A hearty noodle dish made with pork, fresh herbs, and crispy noodles.

Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (White Rose Dumplings): Delicious dumplings filled with shrimp and served with a savory dipping sauce.

Bánh Mì: Vietnam’s famous sandwich, often filled with meats, pate, and fresh veggies.

You can try these dishes at the local street stalls or in one of the many small family-owned restaurants scattered throughout the city.

Visit the Hoi An Museum

To gain a deeper understanding of the city’s past, stop by the Hoi An Museum. It houses artifacts from the Cham period, ancient pottery, and historical records of Hoi An’s role as an important trading port. If you’re a history buff, this museum will enrich your experience of Hoi An and provide insight into the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

Take a Lantern-Making Workshop

What better way to remember your time in Hoi An than by making your own lantern? Several workshops around the city offer the chance to create your own lantern, a craft that has been part of Hoi An’s tradition for centuries. Not only will you learn a new skill, but you’ll also leave with a unique souvenir that you crafted yourself.

Visit the Chuc Thanh Pagoda

For those interested in exploring Hoi An’s spiritual side, the Chuc Thanh Pagoda is a peaceful place to visit. It’s one of the oldest pagodas in the area, dating back to the 15th century. Surrounded by lush gardens, the pagoda is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.