Hoi An Ancient Town isn’t just beautiful — it pulls you in. Walking past old wooden houses, colorful lanterns, and along the calm Hoai River, you feel something gentle and real. There’s a quiet magic here, hidden in small alleys, local smiles, and the warm glow of every corner. Join HoaBinh Tourist to explore these peaceful charms!
1. Overview of Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town is a living museum, preserving the essence of Vietnam’s trading history and cultural diversity. Once a bustling international port from the 15th to 19th centuries, Hoi An Town today enchants visitors with its lantern-lit streets, charming architecture, and timeless atmosphere.
Hoi An Ancient Town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a magical blend of Japanese, Chinese, and European influences, making it one of the most beautiful destinations in Vietnam’s Central region.
Step into the poetic charm of Hoi An Ancient Town, where every street whispers stories from centuries past.
1.1. Location
Hoi An Ancient Town is located in Quang Nam Province, along the central coast of Vietnam, approximately 30 kilometers south of Da Nang City. Its strategic location by the Thu Bon River made it a key trading port for merchants from across Asia and Europe. Today, it’s easily accessible from major hubs like Da Nang and Hue, and serves as a peaceful escape into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry.
1.2. Opening Hours and Entrance Fees
The pedestrian-friendly streets of Hoi An Ancient Town are generally open 24/7. However, if you wish to explore specific heritage houses, assembly halls, and museums, you’ll need a Hoi An entrance ticket. The ticket typically costs around 120,000 VND (~ $5) and includes access to five designated attractions within the town. Ticket booths are located at various entry points, and it’s advisable to purchase one early in the day to avoid queues, especially during festivals or weekends.
Grab your entrance ticket and wander through Hoi An Ancient Town, where every corner holds a piece of living history.
2. Must-Visit Attractions in Hoi An Ancient Town
Wandering through Hoi An Ancient Town feels like stepping into a storybook, where every alleyway, riverbank, and tiled roof tells a tale. Here is the list of the best things to do in Hoi An that you should not miss:
2.1. Hoai River
The Hoai River, a tributary of the Thu Bon River, is the lifeblood of Hoi An Town Center. In the past, it welcomed traders from all corners of the globe; today, it offers enchanting boat rides, especially under the soft glow of lanterns at night. A stroll along the riverbank reveals lively cafés, craft shops, and stunning reflections of colorful buildings shimmering on the water’s surface.
Drift along the Hoai River and let the magical lights of Hoi An Ancient Town guide your journey.
2.2. Assembly Halls
The Assembly Halls of Hoi An, built by Chinese merchant communities, are architectural masterpieces that embody tradition and faith. Among the most famous are the Fujian Assembly Hall and the Cantonese Assembly Hall, both adorned with intricate carvings, grand courtyards, and fragrant incense altars. Visiting these halls provides a deep appreciation of Hoi An Ancient City’s multicultural roots.
Discover vibrant colors and ancient rituals at Hoi An’s Assembly Halls, a testament to its multicultural soul.
2.3. Ancient houses
One of the most captivating features of Hoi An Ancient Town is its well-preserved ancient houses. These traditional homes, many of which are hundreds of years old, showcase the fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural styles. Among the most famous are Tan Ky Old House, Phung Hung House, and Duc An House – each offering a glimpse into the merchant life of a bygone era. Walking through these houses, with their dark wooden beams, antique furniture, and inner courtyards, feels like stepping back in time to when Hoi An was a bustling port city.
Wander through the historic ancient houses of Hoi An Ancient Town, where every wooden beam holds a story from the past.
2.4. Hoi An’s Central Market
Located near the banks of the Thu Bon River, Hoi An’s Central Market is a vibrant hub of daily life and local culture. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce, spices, and seafood to colorful textiles and handmade souvenirs. Early mornings are the best time to visit, as the market buzzes with locals haggling over goods. It’s also a fantastic spot to sample Hoi An’s street food, such as cao lau noodles, fresh spring rolls, and sweet treats. Exploring the market provides a sensory experience that captures the spirit of this ancient town.
Immerse yourself in the bustling sights, sounds, and flavors of Hoi An’s Central Market, where tradition thrives daily.
2.5. Japanese Covered Bridge (Cau Pagoda)
Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Hoi An Ancient Town, the Japanese Covered Bridge (locally known as Cau Pagoda) dates back to the early 17th century. Built by the Japanese community to connect two sides of the town, the bridge features a unique combination of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural elements. Guarded by statues of monkeys and dogs, it remains a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.
Cross the centuries at the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An’s enduring charm and unity.
2.6. Sacred Temples
Scattered throughout Hoi An Ancient Town are sacred temples that reveal the town’s deep spiritual roots. Notable among them are the Quan Cong Temple, dedicated to a revered Chinese general symbolizing loyalty and bravery, and the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, featuring vibrant dragons and deity altars. Visiting these temples allows you to experience the spiritual life that still quietly flows through the town’s historic heart. Each temple, with its intricate carvings, incense clouds, and solemn ambiance, offers a moment of reflection amidst your journey.
Wander into the serene beauty of Hoi An’s sacred temples, where centuries of devotion still linger in the air.
2.7. Museum of Folk Culture
The Museum of Folk Culture in Hoi An Town offers fascinating insights into the city’s rich history and its transformation from a bustling port to a preserved heritage site. Located in an ancient house, the museum displays artifacts, ceramics, and traditional clothing that highlight the multicultural exchanges that shaped Hoi An Ancient Town. A visit here adds context to everything you see while wandering the old streets, enriching your appreciation for this unique destination.
Step into the Museum of Culture and unlock the stories woven into the soul of Hoi An Ancient Town.
3. Travel Tips for Visiting Hoi An Ancient Town
Planning your trip to Hoi An Ancient Town carefully can make your visit even more memorable. Here are some essential tips:
3.1. Best time to visit Hoi An
The best time to visit Hoi An Ancient Town is from February to April and August to October, when the weather is mild, dry, and pleasantly cool. During these months, the skies are often clear, making it perfect for exploring on foot or enjoying boat rides on the Hoai River. If you wish to witness Hoi An’s Lantern Festival, plan your trip around the full moon night each month, when the town transforms into a shimmering sea of colorful lanterns.
Visit Hoi An Ancient Town during the Lantern Festival for an unforgettable display of lights and tradition.
3.2. How to get to Hoi An from Da Nang
The most convenient way to reach Hoi An Ancient Town from Da Nang is via private car, shuttle bus, or guided tour. The journey takes around 45 minutes and passes scenic coastal roads and lush countryside. For a seamless experience, HoaBinh Tourist offers the Marble Mountains – Hoi An Ancient Town Daily Tour, allowing you to explore two iconic destinations in one day with expert guides and comfortable transport. It’s the perfect combination of nature, culture, and relaxation for travelers seeking an authentic glimpse of Central Vietnam.
3.3. Where to stay in Hoi An
Hoi An Ancient Town offers a wide range of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels within the old town to luxurious beachside resorts. Staying within or near the Hoi An Town Center is ideal for easy access to attractions, cafés, and night markets. For those seeking luxury and tranquility, resorts along Cua Dai Beach or An Bang Beach provide the perfect escape. HoaBinh Tourist can help arrange premium stays at 5-star hotels to ensure your journey is both comfortable and memorable.
3.4. What to eat in Hoi An
Hoi An’s cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and unique local specialties. Must-try dishes include Cao Lau – chewy noodles served with pork and crispy crackers, White Rose Dumplings – delicate shrimp-filled delights, and Banh Mi Hoi An – a world-famous Vietnamese sandwich. Street food vendors and cozy riverside restaurants serve up authentic tastes that will leave a lasting impression.
Savor every bite of Hoi An’s culinary treasures, where history meets flavor in every dish.
3.5. What to buy in Hoi An as souvenirs
Hoi An Ancient Town is a paradise for souvenir hunters. Tailor-made clothes, handcrafted lanterns, ceramics, and traditional silk products are among the town’s most prized items. Strolling through the local markets or artisanal shops, you’ll find unique pieces to bring a piece of Hoi An’s spirit home with you. Lanterns, in particular, are iconic keepsakes, symbolizing the town’s beauty and warmth.
Bring home a piece of Hoi An’s magic with colorful lanterns, silk garments, and hand-crafted souvenirs.
4. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town with HoaBinh Tourist’s Tailor-Made Tours
Hoi An Ancient Town is more than a destination; it’s an experience of timeless beauty, culture, and warmth. At HoaBinh Tourist, we have Marble Mountains – Hoi An Ancient Town Daily Tour to match your interests – please contact us via hotline (+84) 939 311 911 to book a suitable tour at a discounted price.
Our suggested other Hoi An tour:
In 2025, as part of Vietnam’s nationwide tourism campaign, Vietnam: Timeless Journey – Endless Love, travelers from Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland will enjoy visa exemptions when visiting Vietnam. This initiative opens more opportunities for international visitors to explore enchanting destinations like Hoi An Ancient Town with ease.
Discover the magic of Vietnam, now more accessible than ever, with the “Vietnam: Timeless Journey – Endless Love” campaign.
With HoaBinh Tourist’s all-in-one travel service, we proudly offer:
- Private cars from 7 to 45 seats, including VIP limousine pick-up
- Flexible flight ticket booking at best prices
- 5-star accommodation for perfect relaxation throughout your trip
Let us craft your unforgettable journey to the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, where time seems to stand still and every corner hides a new wonder.
Experience the timeless magic of Hoi An with HoaBinh Tourist – your trusted guide to Vietnam’s hidden treasures.
