Hoi An Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Vietnam, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable experience to travelers. Among its many destinations, the city of Hoi An in Quảng Nam Province stands out as a historical gem and a cultural melting pot.
Hoi An, an exceptionally well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century, is renowned for its beautiful Old Town, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's architecture is a blend of indigenous and foreign influences, reflecting the fusion of cultures from its history as a bustling trading center.
The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, with its graceful curves and intricate details, is a symbol of Hoi An and a testament to the city's multicultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the ancient merchant houses, such as the Tan Ky and Phung Hung houses, which offer a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy traders of the past.
Hoi An's vibrant lantern-lit streets come alive after sunset, creating a magical atmosphere that enchants every visitor. The Night Market is an excellent place for tourists to sample local street food, shop for handmade souvenirs, and admire the array of colorful lanterns that light up the town.
The city is also famous for its custom tailoring, with numerous shops offering made-to-measure clothing at affordable prices. Visitors can have suits, dresses, and traditional Vietnamese outfits crafted within days by skilled tailors.
Beyond the charm of the Old Town, Hoi An's countryside reveals lush rice paddies and serene rivers, perfect for bicycle tours and boat trips. The nearby Cua Dai Beach and An Bang Beach provide a coastal escape with golden sands and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
For culinary enthusiasts, Hoi An's cuisine is a delight, featuring local specialties such as Cao Lau (a flavorful noodle dish), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and White Rose Dumplings. Cooking classes are readily available for those wishing to delve deeper into the region's gastronomy.
Quảng Nam
Hoi An Attractions - What to See and Explore
Hoi An offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sa Huynh, Museum of Trade Ceramics, GAM - Gemstone Art Museum, Old house of Tan Ky. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Hoi An – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Hoi An, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Museum of Cham Sculpture (Da Nang), My Khe Beach (Da Nang), Thuận Phước Bridge (Da Nang).
Best Time To Visit Hoi An
Learn when is the best time to travel to Hoi An weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Cao lầu
Cao lầu is a regional Vietnamese noodle dish, from the city of Hội An, in central Vietnam's Quảng Nam Province.
Dish
Vietnamese cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine encompasses the foods and beverages of Vietnam, and features a combination of five fundamental tastes in overall meals. Each Vietnamese dish has a distinctive flavor...
Cuisine
Bánh
In Vietnamese, the term bánh translates loosely as "cake" or "bread", referring to a wide variety of prepared foods.
Dish
Rice noodles
Rice noodles, or simply rice noodle, are noodles made from rice. The principal ingredients are rice flour and water. Sometimes ingredients such as tapioca or corn starch are added in order...
Noodle
Nem
Nem refers to various dishes in Vietnamese, depending on the locality. In Northern Vietnam, nem refer to a roll dish rice paper called nem cuon or nem ran, whereas barbecued meat is called...
Dish
Quảng Nam