Hoi An Ancient Town
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Area: 61.4 sq km
Location: Da Nang City (Central Vietnam)
Population: 121,712
Dialing Code : 0235
Best Time to Visit: Jan to May (Mild weather, low humidity)
Top Highlights: Ancient Town, Lantern Night Market, Custom Tailoring, Local Food (Cao Lau, Banh Mi, Chicken Rice), Tra Que Vegetable Village
The lovely old town Hoi An has never lost its attraction with charming ancient architecture lying besides the poetic Thu Bon River. Once in the full moon night, the glistening lanterns harmonized with the mysterious incense fragrance on the Japanese and Chinese houses will bring you to the very long memories ago.
Geography
Located on the banks of Thu Bon River and about 25 kms from Da Nang Airport. The average elevation is 13 metres above sea level, Bordering with Dien Ban District to the North West, Duy Xuyen District to the South West and the East Sea to the East. Hoi An is about 800kms from Hanoi and 850 kms from Ho Chi Minh City. This used to be a major Southeast Asian trading port in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Weather and Climate
Hoi An has two main seasons during the year: rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from September to January with heavy rains which can cause floods the highest precipitation is in October with the average of 680mm. The dry season is between February and May when the weather becomes very mild with moderate temperature and less humid. The hottest period is from June to August when the highest temperature can reach 40°C during day time. November to January will be the coldest months with an average temperature of 20 °C, the lowest temprature is about 16°C.
Calm mild weather is now limited to the season of May/June - end of August when the seas are calm and wind changes direction and comes from the South. The remainder of the year the weather is intermittent between rain & cold and hot & mild.
Transportation
1. By Air
Hoi An Ancient Town is 25 kms far from Da Nang International Airport and 80 kms from Chu Lai Airport so It's easy to get to Hoi An by Air from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or some other Cities in Vietnam and International Airport : Singapore, Siem Reap, Bangkok...
2. Railways
Hoi An is in the center of Vietnam and also closed to Da Nang Railway Station ( 30kms) and Tam Ky Railway Station ( 60km) so It's very easy to catch Vietnam Union Trains from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and vice versa, they stop in these train stations everyday.
3. Buses
Hoi an is 9kms from the Highway No1 connecting Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City, so there are many buses every day with high quality sitting buses or sleeping buses. At the bus stops, you can catch a taxi or grab bike to Hoi An. There are also Shuttle buses from Da Nang or other provinces go directly to Hoi An Center.
See and Do
There are many places to see and do in Hoi An, hereunder the main places that you should not miss, you can also book a Hoi An guided tour to visit this places
1.Ancient Town
The town itself has an antique attraction with more than 1,100 preserved historic buildings dating from the 15th–19th centuries and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, among them are the Japanese covered bridge, Tan Ky house, Tran family chapel, Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese congregation, Phuoc Lam pagoda, Tran Duong house. Many buildings in the Old Town were constructed over a century ago and feature strong Chinese influences stemming from merchants from Guangzhou, Fujian, Chiu Chow and Hainan. Some of the wooden signboards bearing the company names are carved and gilded in Chinese characters, reflecting the strong presence of the Chinese in Hoi An ever since its prosperous times.
Walking streets at every night from 18h00-22h00 will be best choice for your to explore the ancient town.
Rowing boat in Thu Bon River
2. Hoi An Night Market
Located in Nguyen Hoang Street, closed to Thu Bon River, open from 19h00 to 23h00 selling street foods, souvenir and clothing with cheap prices.
3. Rowing boat in Hoai River
Hoai river is a branch of Thu Bon River runs through Hoi An Ancient Town. Take a boat trip during day time or night time to enjoy the beauty of Hoi An Ancient Town must be a good experience for the tourists.
4. My Son Holy Land
My Son is about 45kms from Hoi An Center. It was the capital and religious center of Cham Kingdom from 7th to 13th Century, now remaining with red brick towers and sanctuaries. My Son, considered being in the same league as some of Southeast Asia's greatest archaeological sites, including Angkor in Cambodia, Bagan in Myanmar, Ayutthaya in Thailand and Borobudur in Indonesia. These towers and sanctuaries were built from the 7 to 13 centuries.
5. Cua Dai Beach
Only 5kms from Hoi An town, Cua Dai beach is a ravishing small beach with white smooth sand and cleanly emerald water. This is also home for numerous luxury resorts and hotels. An ideal place for your relaxation. but Now Cua Dai beach is suffer from tide so the beach is not so beautiful anymore.
An Bang Beach
6. An Bang Beach
This tranquil and lovely beach lies quietly 5kms away from Hoi An centre and 3 kms from Cua Dai Beach. This is favorite rendezvous for both local and expats, an ideal place to relax or take a siesta.
7. Cham Island
The pretty island has its history dated back from 2500 years ago yet only came to be widely known after the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Cu Lao Cham - Hoi An was created in May 2009. The attractive place for ecotourism diving and snorkeling. However, the changeable weather is also a challenge to approach the island.
8. Hoi An cooking class
One of the most fascinating things to do in Hoi An is to join a cooking class to learn how to make some Vietnamese specialities. Try the feeling of doing everything from choosing ingredients, making food to cooking it by yourselves and have an unforgettable moment in your holiday.
"Cooking class with Red Bridge School": Thon 4 Cam Thanh, Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam
"Morning Glory restaurant": 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc str., Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam
"Tra Que Water Wheel": Tra Que village, Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam
9. Custom Tailoring in Hoi An (Hoi An Tailors)
Getting custom-made clothing is one of the top experiences when visiting Hoi An. Carrying on centuries of silk trading heritage, Hoi An’s skilled tailors can craft high-quality bespoke suits, dresses, and traditional Ao Dai within just 24 to 48 hours at surprisingly reasonable prices.
Top Recommended Tailor Shops in Hoi An
- Yaly Couture
Address: 358 Nguyen Duy Hieu Str., Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: One of the most prestigious high-end tailor brands in Hoi An, famous for sophisticated designs and premium fabrics. - Thu Thuy Silk
Address: 60 Le Loi Str., Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: The oldest tailor shop in Hoi An (operating since 1989), specializing in rapid custom fitting with exceptional service. - A Dong Silk - Bespoke Tailoring
Address: 40 Le Loi Str., Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Highly praised on TripAdvisor for perfectly fitted suits, personal styling guidance, and attention to detail. - Mr Xe Tailor
Address: 71 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Great option for budget-conscious travelers seeking friendly service and quick turnaround times. - B'Lan Silk
Address: 23 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: Set inside a charming 200-year-old traditional wooden house in the heart of the Ancient Town. - Bao Khanh Silk
Address: 101 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Phuong Nam Tailor
Address: 15 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Hoang Kim Tailor
Address: 57 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Blue Eyes Tailor
Address: 48 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
10. Hoi An Eco tour
Enjoy the friendly environment activities with soft eco tour highlights on fishing and farming procedure and gain some hands-on experience. You can join farming tours to Tra Que vegetable village or fishing tours to Bay Mau Water coconut forest....
Tra Que Vegetable Village
11. Hoi An central market
The city market is right on the waterfront and is a wonderful place to stroll around and have a snack, local handy crafts or look for a good bargain. You can also find most of Hoi An specialities in food courts in this market with very cheap prices.
Add: Tran Quy Cap str., Hoi An, Da Nang, by Thu Bon river
Best Places to Eat & Drink
We must say Hoi An is the best place for the street food and specialities. Hereunder We list the feature food those you should not miss.
1. Com Ga (Hoi An Chicken Rice)
Com Ga (Chicken Rice) is an iconic culinary staple in Hoi An that every traveler should try. This signature dish features fragrant jasmine rice cooked in rich boiled chicken broth and golden turmeric, topped with tender shredded poached chicken, fresh Vietnamese herbs, and sliced onions. It is served with a bowl of savory broth and a side of chili-garlic dipping sauce for the perfect balance of flavors.
Top Recommended Com Ga Restaurants in Hoi An
- Com Ga Ba Buoi
Address: 22 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: The most famous chicken rice spot in town, very popular among international tourists (expect a short wait during peak hours). - Com Ga Ba Nga
Address: 8 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Rich sauce and generous chicken portions with a local vibe. - Com Ga Ba Huong
Address: 48 Le Loi Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Com Ga Long
Address: 53/18 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Hidden in a quiet alley, highly rated for its authentic local taste and air-conditioned seating. - Com Ga Tho
Address: 190 Ly Thuong Kiet Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Com Ga Ba Thuan
Address: 17/4 Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Com Ga Xi
Address: 47/2 Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Com Ga Ba Lam
Address: 21 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
2. Pho Hoi An (Hoi An Style Noodle Soup)
While Hanoi is famous for its traditional beef noodle soup, Pho Hoi An offers a completely unique twist on Vietnam's national dish. Distinctive for its rich broth, dry roasted peanuts, garlic, chili jam, and crisp pickled papaya or onions served on the side, Hoi An's Pho provides a fascinating flavor profile that sets it apart from northern and southern variations.
Top Recommended Pho Restaurants in Hoi An
- Pho Tung
Address: 51/7 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: A beloved long-standing local favorite tucked in a small alley, renowned for its deeply flavorful broth and signature side seasonings. - Pho Lien
Address 1: 2B La Hoi Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Address 2: 165 Le Hong Phong Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Famous for authentic local-style Pho with tender beef cuts and crispy pickled garnishes. - Pho Tien
Address: 133 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Pho Muoi
Address 1: 363 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Address 2: 46 Huynh Thuc Khang Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Pho Dong Lien
Address: 482 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
3. Banh Mi Hoi An (Vietnamese Baguette)
Banh Mi Phuong
World-renowned and praised by culinary icons like Anthony Bourdain, Banh Mi Hoi An is considered one of the best sandwiches in the world. It features a freshly baked crispy baguette packed with savory pate, rich homemade mayonnaise, cold cuts, grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and fragrant fresh herbs, perfectly balanced with a secret chili sauce.
Top Recommended Banh Mi Spots in Hoi An
- Banh Mi Phuong
Address: 2B Phan Chu Trinh Str., Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: Made famous by Anthony Bourdain on No Reservations. Expect a fast-moving queue; try the mixed special (Banh Mi Thap Cam). - Banh Mi Madam Khanh - The Banh Mi Queen
Address: 115 Tran Cao Van Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Legendary local spot known for generous fillings, rich juicy sauce, and exceptional customer service. - Banh Mi Lanh
Address: 430 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: A hidden local gem away from tourist crowds, famous for authentic traditional flavors and crispy bread. - Banh Mi Bich
Address: 51 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
4. Cao Lau (Hoi An Signature Noodles)
Cao Lau literally translates to "High Floor." Historically, when Hoi An was a bustling Southeast Asian trading port, wealthy merchants preferred sitting on the upper floors of local eateries to enjoy this dish while keeping an eye on their cargo ships at the harbor.
Unlike traditional Vietnamese noodle soups, Cao Lau features thick, chewy rice noodles with a texture similar to Japanese udon or Italian pasta. The noodles are topped with tender slices of savory roast pork (Char Siu), crunchy deep-fried dough crackers, fresh local greens, and a ladle of rich, flavorful jus. It offers a unique taste profile found nowhere else in Vietnam.
Top Recommended Cao Lau Restaurants in Hoi An
- Cao Lau Thanh
Address: 26 Thai Phien Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: A long-time local favorite known for authentic flavors, generous pork portions, and quick service. - Cao Lau Lien
Address: 21B Thai Phien Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Budget-friendly street food spot with rich gravy and exceptionally crisp pork cracklings. - Cao Lau Ba Be
Address: 19 Tran Phu Str. (inside market area), Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Located right in the local food market, offering an authentic traditional dining experience. - Cao Lau Khong Gian Xanh
Address: 687 Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: A cozy green space in the Old Town, very popular among international travelers. - Cao Lau Trung Bac
Address: 87 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: Set in a century-old traditional house, serving Cao Lau for over a hundred years. - Cao Lau Ong Ty
Address: 71 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Van Loc Restaurant
Address: 27 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
5. Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose Dumplings)
Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose Dumplings) is an iconic Hoi An specialty made from translucent rice dough filled with minced shrimp or pork, delicately bunched up to resemble a blooming white rose. The dumplings are topped with crispy fried shallots and served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce made from shrimp broth, chilies, and lime.
Top Recommended Places to Eat White Rose Dumplings
- White Rose Restaurant (Nhà hàng Bông Hồng Trắng)
Address: 533D Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: The original bakery-restaurant that supplies White Rose dumplings to almost all eateries across Hoi An. You can even watch the artisans roll the dumplings on site. - Trong Com Restaurant
Address: 92 Bach Dang Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Cozy riverside dining spot with great local authentic dishes. - Trung Bac Restaurant
Address: 97 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
6. Hoanh Thanh (Hoi An Wonton Dumplings)
Introduced by Chinese merchants centuries ago, Hoanh Thanh (Wontons) has adapted into a signature Hoi An dish. Filled primarily with seasoned ground pork and shrimp, these dumplings can be served in a rich soup broth or deep-fried until golden and crispy, topped with a flavorful sweet-and-sour tomato, pork, and shrimp sauce.
Top Recommended Places for Hoi An Wontons
- Nguyen Loi Restaurant
Address: 78 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Hoang Ky Restaurant
Address: 67 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Highlights: Highly rated for its deep-fried wontons with rich signature topping sauce. - Anh Dung Restaurant
Address: 14 Ba Trieu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang - Van Loc Restaurant
Address: 27 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
7. Gieng Ba Le (Ba Le Well Local Eatery)
Gieng Ba Le (Ba Le Well Restaurant) is a legendary local dining destination hidden down a small alley near the ancient Ba Le Well. It specializes in a feast of traditional central Vietnamese specialties, including crispy Banh Xeo (savoury pancakes), Nem Lui (lemongrass pork skewers), Ram Cuon (fried spring rolls), and grilled pork, served with fresh herbs and a delicious secret peanut sauce.
Address: 45/51 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An, Da Nang
Insider Tip: Perfect for group dining. They offer a fixed set menu where you get to taste a little bit of every iconic local street dish in an airy outdoor garden setting.
For restaurants please click this link for the list of restaurants in Hoi An
Hoi An Nighlife - Bars and Cafe
Though Hoi An is famous for turning its lights off early, there are still plenty of things to do when the lanterns are on.
A lot of Bars and cafes with live music in walking streets, especially in Nguyen Phu Chu street, on the banks of Thu Bon River. you can easily find one that is suitable for you. Besides, you can also find alot of good ones in the town.
1. Mango Mango
Located next to Hoi An’s famous Japanese Covered Bridge, funky Mango Mango is a stylish place to share a bottle of wine. Relaxing and chic, the red lacquer bar is smartly accompanied by cocktail tables and an extensive choice of drinks. Latin-inspired music adds to the ambience and there is also a selection of succulent food on offer.
Add: 45 Nguyen Phuc Chu, Hoi An, Da Nang
2. Why Not Club Bar Hoi An
Why not bar club belongs to Project Q based in Hoi An, Vietnam and established in 2023. Although newly opened but this has become one of the best bars in Hoi An for night life
Add: 55 Nguyen Phuc Chu Str, Hoi An, Da Nang
3. New Club 92
This is in the middle of the prosperous Old Town, the city with the rich development of culture and art, various types of entertainment, especially the nightlife model. New 92 Club pioneers and leads the trend to bring a classy and effective playground with luxurious space, the most modern lighting technologies promise to bring great emotions to all customers.
Add: Bo Ho 1 Str, Cam Ha Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
3. Double Cat Bar
Opened in June 2019 . Known for its friendly staff and fun atmosphere. Double Cat serves home made foods ( Dumplings, Wonton Soups, Salads…), accompanied by a wide range of cocktails, spirits, wines etc. We are currently open everyday from 11am until late. “ An Bang Beach is Awesome BUT the First Our Cocktails.
113A Phan Van Vinh Str, An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Da Nang
4. Barconcú Classic Bar
A chill and cozy classic bar for all locals and travelers when you come to visit our amazing Hoi An ancient town ? Paint & Sip Thursday Night ? Live Music Saturday Night ❤️Cocktail Hours: 17.00 - 19.00
Add: 121 Ba Trieu Str, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang
5. Shore Club, An Bang Beach
A private beach side oasis steps from the hustle and bustle of An Bang Beach. Experience our world-class cocktails, vast selection of beer and wines and outstanding local and international cuisine served up with our signature style of warm, welcoming hospitality and service. Relax in one of our private cabanas with the kids, grab a day bad overlooking the ocean or indulge in a VIP cabanas to lounge the day away.
Add: An Bang Beach, Hoi An
6. Heliport Nightclub - Hoi An
Expext the best vibes and music at heliport nightclub! DJ's from all over the world playing some great techno/house/ urban. Let's rave till sunrise.
Add: 27 Le Quy Don Str, Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An
7. The Deck Hoi An
Located on the Top floor of Royal Hoi An Hotel, this is the highest rooftop bar in Hoi An with sweeping views overlooking Hoi An and Thu Bon river. Just 5 -10 minute walk along Thu Bon river to the ancient town
Add: 39 Dao Duy Tu Street, Hoi An, Da Nang
8. Hair of the Dog Bar Hoi An
HAIR OF THE DOG BAR brings you a vibrant party atmosphere … from exquisite cocktails to electrifying music. Housed in a historic building, the bar seamlessly blends the charm of its setting with a contemporary party vibe. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, it caters to a diverse crowd, making it a popular spot for locals, tourists, and backpackers alike.
Add: 16 Thoai Ngoc Hau Str, Hoi An, Da Nang
9. Tam Tam cafe: Escape to Tam Tam Cafe & Restaurant Hoi An, a culinary landmark in the heart of Hoi An since 1996. We offer a delightful fusion of Vietnamese and Western flavors, creating a unique dining experience for every palate. Conveniently located on Nguyen Thai Hoc, we've been a beloved fixture in the community, serving both locals and visitors with our authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Discover why Tam Tam Cafe & Restaurant has become a Hoi An institution
Add: 110 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An Dong Ward, Da Nang
The Shamrock
10. The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An
The first and only pub in Vietnam serving Guinness Draught. The Shamrock is a true Irish Pub located on the beautiful riverside in Hoi An Ancient Town. Due to COVID-19 we have temporarily shortened our opening hours. Daily Happy Hour from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Live music every night, big screen live sports, proper pub food and kitchen open till late.
Add: 21 Nguyen Phuc Chu str, Hoi An, Da Nang
11. King Tiger Tiger Bar
This is the backpacker bar of choice. It’s invariably packed while other bars nearby sit abandoned and forlorn. Why? Once you get past the al fresco setting by the street you’re in a full-on dance club that plays music the under-30s really want to hear and move to. It’s that simple. Check out our full guide to Tiger Tiger in Hoi An below.
Add: 65 Nguyen Phuc Chu str, Hoi An, Da Nang
12. The Deck House An Bang Beach
This is the perfect place to spend the whole day, enjoying meals with friends, relaxing on the sun lounges and sipping cocktails on the terrace overlooking the beach.
Add: An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Da Nang
13. Salt Pub & Restaurant
Add to your Beachside experience with a visit to Salt Pub & Restaurant. This ocean view bar is part of Beachside Boutique Resort and is situated just across the road from the resort. Expect to find beautiful views, top class service, delectable dishes and unique selection of Gin, Rum, spirits and craft beers. Order a ice bucket of beers from our garden or beach lounges and enjoy the finer things in life in true Beachside style.
Add: 32 Nguyen Phan Vinh, An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Da Nang
FAQ
How many days should I spend in Hoi An?
Hoi An is a beautiful ancient town and very suitable for a retreat so the ideal stay is from 3-7 days or more
What are the best places to visit in Hoi An Ancient town?
In the town you these are the best places to visit: Japanese Covered Bridge, Old Merchant Houses, Fujian Assembly Hall, Cantonese Assembly Hall, Hoi An Central Market, Lantern Streets, Thu Bon River, Night Market, Museum of Folk Culture, Traditional Temples and Pagodas...
You can also visit some nearby places: An Bang Beach, Tra Que Vegetable village, Cam Thanh Coconut Village, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 1 hour away) and Cham Island
Is Hoi An safe at night?
Yes, Hoi an is the safest place in Vietnam
What is the best month to visit Hoi An?
It's from Jan to May (dry & mild)
Last updated: July 2026
Compiled by WayToVietnam Local Travel Expert - Mr Do Van Le 
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