Welcome to Enchanting Hoi An: A Journey Through Time

Welcome to our comprehensive travel guide to Hoi An, a city whose streets whisper the tales of centuries. Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is a fascinating blend of cultures, cuisines, and architectures that have stood the test of time. Once a bustling port, this UNESCO World Heritage Site now invites travelers to step into its vibrant lantern-lit streets, tranquil countryside, and sandy shores, offering a journey not just through places, but through history itself.

From the well-preserved Ancient Town, with its blend of indigenous and foreign cultures, to the serene rural landscapes that cradle the city, Hoi An is a testament to Vietnam’s enduring spirit. Here, every alleyway and river bend tells a story, every dish is a celebration of flavors, and every sunset a canvas of colors.

Discovering the Magic of Hoi An’s Ancient Town: A Day 1 Itinerary

Welcome to your first day in Hoi An, a city whose streets echo the mysteries of centuries past. Today, you’ll embark on a journey through the heart of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century.

Morning – Arrival and Breakfast

Begin your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Xua, where a bowl of fragrant Pho awaits to energize your morning explorations. Located just at the entrance of the Ancient Town, it’s the perfect starting point for today’s adventure.

Mid-Morning – Walking Tour of the Ancient Town

Stroll through the historic streets, taking in the fusion of indigenous and colonial architecture that defines this charming town. Highlights to explore include:

• The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge for a glimpse into Hoi An’s multicultural history.
• The ancient Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, a serene testimony to the Chinese influence in the area.
• Visit Tan Ky Old House, a beautifully preserved merchant’s house offering insights into the domestic architecture of Hoi An.

Lunch – A Taste of Hoi An

For lunch, head to Vy’s Market Restaurant for a culinary workshop and lunch. Here, not only can you enjoy traditional Hoi An specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose Dumplings, but you can also learn to make them in a guided cooking class.

Afternoon – Leisurely Explorations

Spend your afternoon wandering the quaint alleyways, visiting art galleries, or shopping for handmade souvenirs.

Evening – Lantern-lit Streets and Night Market

As the sun sets, Hoi An transforms under the glow of silk lanterns. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Thu Bon River, releasing lanterns into the water before exploring the vibrant Night Market. Delight in local snacks and shop for artisan lanterns to conclude your first day in Hoi An.

Tip: Hoi An’s scenery is exceptionally photogenic at night. Keep your camera ready to capture the enchanting atmosphere of the lantern-lit streets and river.

Day 2 in Hoi An: From Countryside Charm to Sunset Beach Leisure

After a day soaking up the history of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, it’s time to explore the natural beauty and cultural depth surrounding this historic gem. Day 2 promises an engaging blend of countryside exploration, artisan visits, and relaxing beach time.

Morning – Exploring the Countryside

Rise early and embark on a cycling tour through the lush countryside surrounding Hoi An. Join a guided eco tour that takes you through rice paddies, organic vegetable farms, and to the homes of local artisans. Highlights include:

• A stop at a traditional pottery village to try your hand at the wheel.
• Learning about local farming techniques and participating in rice farming.
• Visiting a family that weaves bamboo baskets, offering a window into a timeless Vietnamese craft.

Lunch – Riverside Refreshment

Conclude your morning adventure with a lunch at Morning Glory Original, where you can enjoy Vietnamese dishes in a serene setting.

Afternoon – Leisure at An Bang Beach

Take a short ride from the town center to An Bang Beach, one of Hoi An’s most beautiful coastal spots. Spend your afternoon basking in the sun, swimming in the clear waters, or enjoying a book under the shade of palm trees. For the adventurous, there are opportunities for water sports such as paddleboarding and surfing.

Evening – Cooking Class and Dinner

Return to Hoi An for an evening cooking class at Coconut Fragrance Cooking Class. This hands-on experience not only teaches you how to make some of Hoi An’s signature dishes but also ends with a delicious dinner enjoyed with your fellow chefs.

Day 3 in Hoi An: Embarking on Adventures Beyond the City

Your final day in Hoi An is reserved for exploring some of the most breathtaking and historically significant sites located a short distance from the city. Get ready for an unforgettable journey to the My Son Sanctuary and the Marble Mountains.

Morning – Visit to My Son Sanctuary

Start your day with an early visit to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was the center of the Champa Kingdom. Located around an hour’s drive from Hoi An, this ancient complex of Hindu temples set against a lush mountainous backdrop is an awe-inspiring sight:

• Depart early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
• Discover the ruins and learn about the fascinating history and architecture of the Champa Kingdom through a guided tour.
• Enjoy the serene atmosphere of the sanctuary as you explore its many temples and relics.

Lunch – Local Cuisine

After returning from My Son, enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Field Restaurant & Bar, located amidst beautiful greenery and waterways, offering traditional Vietnamese dishes with a view.

Afternoon – Marble Mountains Exploration

Head out to the Marble Mountains after lunch, a group of five marble and limestone hills named after the five elements. They are located in Da Nang, just a short drive from Hoi An:

• Explore the caves, tunnels, and Buddhist sanctuaries that make this site unique.
• Climb to the top of Thuy Son (Water Mountain), the largest of the Marble Mountains, for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Visit the stone-carving village of Non Nuoc to see artisans at work and perhaps take home a marble memento.

Evening – Farewell Dinner

Conclude your Hoi An journey with a farewell dinner at Mango Mango, a restaurant by the Thu Bon River that offers innovative dishes by chef and owner Tran Thanh Duc, who blends local flavors with international flair. Reflect on your adventures as you enjoy the riverside ambiance one last time.

Tip: The Marble Mountains offer some of the best sunset views in the region. If time allows, try to stay until sunset for a breathtaking end to your adventure.

As our journey through the enchanting city of Hoi An comes to a close, we leave behind the lantern-lit streets, the echoes of history that whisper through the Ancient Town, and the tranquil beauty of the countryside that defines much of Vietnam’s charm. Hoi An, a city that seamlessly blends centuries-old history with serene landscapes, offers a mosaic of experiences that resonate with travelers long after they depart.

Whether it was walking through the bustling markets, cycling amongst the verdant rice fields, sampling the rich tapestry of local cuisine, or simply watching the sun dip below the horizon at An Bang Beach, each moment in Hoi An is a thread in the fabric of unforgettable memories. It is our hope that this guide has not only served as your compass navigating through the city’s vibrant heart and peaceful outskirts but has also inspired a deeper connection with the culture, history, and people of Hoi An.