Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Central Vietnam, is one of Southeast Asia's best-preserved trading ports from the 15th to 19th centuries. Located along the Thu Bon River, just 25 km from Da Nang International Airport (DAD), the town features beautifully preserved merchant houses, colorful lantern-lined streets, traditional Chinese assembly halls, and the historic Japanese Covered Bridge. Visitors can explore its lively night market, experience custom tailoring, and sample local dishes such as Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and Banh Mi. This guide covers when to visit, what to see and do, local food, and practical tips for planning your stay.
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Area: 61.4 sq km
Location: Da Nang City (formerly in Quang Nam Province), 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 along the scenic Thu Bon River in Central Vietnam, Hoi An sits at an average elevation of around 13 meters above sea level. The town is about 25 km south of Da Nang International Airport, 800 km from Hanoi, and 850 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
Historically part of Quang Nam Province, Hoi An is now part of the expanded Da Nang City following Vietnam's administrative reorganization in July 2025. This is why many older maps, websites, and travel resources still refer to Hoi An as being in Quang Nam.
Hoi An is surrounded by rivers, countryside, and coastal areas, with the East Sea to the east. Its strategic location along the Thu Bon River helped the town develop into an important Southeast Asian trading port during 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 an average of 680mm. The dry season is between February and May when the weather becomes very mild with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. The hottest period is from June to August when temperatures can reach 40°C during the daytime. November to January are the coolest months with an average temperature of 20°C (lowest around 16°C).
Calm mild weather is usually limited to May through late August when the seas are calm and winds blow from the South. The remainder of the year experiences intermittent rain, cool spells, or hot conditions.
Transportation to Hoi An
1. By Air
Hoi An Ancient Town is 25 km from Da Nang International Airport and 80 km from Chu Lai Airport, making it easy to fly in from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and regional international destinations such as Singapore, Siem Reap, or Bangkok.
2. Railways
Hoi An is in central Vietnam and close to Da Nang Railway Station (30 km) and Tam Ky Railway Station (60 km). It is very easy to catch Vietnam Reunification Express trains from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, stopping daily at these stations.
3. Buses
Hoi An is 9 km from Highway No. 1. Frequent high-quality seated and sleeper buses run daily. From local bus stops, you can easily take a taxi or Grab bike to central Hoi An. Shuttle buses from Da Nang also drop passengers directly in Hoi An Center.
Top Things to See and Do in Hoi An
There are many places to see and things to do in Hoi An. Below are the essential highlights you should not miss. You can also book a Hoi An guided tour to explore these attractions hassle-free.
1. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
The town itself features more than 1,100 preserved historic buildings dating from the 15th–19th centuries and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Highlights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, Tran Family Chapel, Fujian Assembly Hall, Phuoc Lam Pagoda, and Tran Duong House. Many structures reflect strong Chinese architectural influences from merchant communities originating in Guangzhou, Fujian, Chiu Chow, and Hainan.
The best way to experience Hoi An Ancient Town is on foot. From around 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, pedestrianized streets offer a relaxing atmosphere to admire glowing lanterns, craft shops, and riverside scenery.
Rowing boat on Thu Bon River
2. Hoi An Night Market
Located on Nguyen Hoang Street near the Thu Bon River, open from 19:00 to 23:00 selling street foods, souvenirs, and clothing at reasonable prices.
3. Rowing Boat on Hoai River
The Hoai River is a branch of the Thu Bon River flowing through Hoi An Ancient Town. Taking a boat ride during the day or evening is a quintessential Hoi An experience.
4. My Son Sanctuary
Located about 45 km from Hoi An, My Son was the spiritual and political capital of the Champa Kingdom from the 7th to 13th centuries. Nestled in a lush valley, its red-brick tower temples are regularly compared to iconic Southeast Asian archaeological sites like Angkor Wat or Bagan.
5. Cua Dai Beach
Located 5 km from Hoi An town, Cua Dai Beach features soft white sand and palm trees, home to luxury resorts. Note: Coastal erosion in recent years has impacted parts of the beachfront, though restoration efforts continue.
Relaxing at An Bang Beach
6. An Bang Beach
Lying 5 km from Hoi An center and 3 km from Cua Dai, An Bang is a popular, laid-back beach favored by locals and expats alike for swimming, relaxing, and beachfront dining.
7. Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)
Located offshore, this island group is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve known for coral reefs, marine life, and clear waters—ideal for diving and snorkeling trips (best visited during calm sea months).
8. Hoi An Cooking Classes
Joining a cooking class is one of the most rewarding cultural experiences in Hoi An. You will visit local markets, select fresh herbs, and learn traditional recipes hands-on.
- Red Bridge Cooking School: Cam Thanh Village, Hoi An
- Morning Glory Restaurant: 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Hoi An
- Tra Que Water Wheel: Tra Que Vegetable Village, Hoi An
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 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
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
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
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
Highlights: Great option for budget-conscious travelers seeking friendly service and quick turnaround times. - B'Lan Silk
Address: 23 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An
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 - Phuong Nam Tailor
Address: 15 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An - Hoang Kim Tailor
Address: 57 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Hoi An - Blue Eyes Tailor
Address: 48 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Hoi An
10. Hoi An Eco Tours
Experience local life with eco-friendly activities focused on farming and traditional fishing. Popular options include organic farming tours in Tra Que Vegetable Village or basket boat rides in Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
Tra Que Vegetable Village
11. Hoi An Central Market
Located right on the waterfront, Hoi An Central Market is a vibrant hub to explore local produce, handicrafts, and fresh street food in an authentic local setting.
Address: Tran Quy Cap Str., Hoi An (by Thu Bon River)
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Hoi An
Hoi An is celebrated as one of Vietnam's top culinary destinations. Here are the iconic local dishes you must try:
1. Com Ga (Hoi An Chicken Rice)
Com Ga (Chicken Rice) is an iconic culinary staple in Hoi An. Features fragrant rice cooked in rich boiled chicken broth and golden turmeric, topped with tender shredded poached chicken, fresh Vietnamese herbs, and sliced onions, served with savory broth and chili-garlic dipping sauce.
Top Recommended Com Ga Restaurants in Hoi An
- Com Ga Ba Buoi
Address: 22 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An
Insider Tip: The most famous chicken rice spot in town, very popular among international tourists. - Com Ga Ba Nga
Address: 8 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An
Highlights: Rich sauce and generous chicken portions with a local vibe. - Com Ga Ba Huong
Address: 48 Le Loi Str., Hoi An - Com Ga Long
Address: 53/18 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An
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 - Com Ga Ba Thuan
Address: 17/4 Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An - Com Ga Xi
Address: 47/2 Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An - Com Ga Ba Lam
Address: 21 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An
2. Pho Hoi An (Hoi An Style Noodle Soup)
While Hanoi is famous for classic beef noodle soup, Pho Hoi An offers a unique central Vietnamese style with roasted peanuts, garlic, chili jam, and crispy pickled papaya or onions served alongside rich beef broth.
Top Recommended Pho Restaurants in Hoi An
- Pho Tung
Address: 51/7 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An
Insider Tip: A long-standing local favorite tucked in a small alley. - Pho Lien
Address 1: 2B La Hoi Str., Hoi An
Address 2: 165 Le Hong Phong Str., Hoi An - Pho Tien
Address: 133 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An - Pho Muoi
Address 1: 363 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An
Address 2: 46 Huynh Thuc Khang Str., Hoi An - Pho Dong Lien
Address: 482 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An
3. Banh Mi Hoi An (Vietnamese Baguette)
Famous Banh Mi Phuong in Hoi An
World-renowned and praised by late chef Anthony Bourdain, Banh Mi Hoi An features a crispy baguette packed with pate, homemade mayonnaise, cold cuts, grilled pork, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and 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
Insider Tip: Made famous by Anthony Bourdain on No Reservations. Try the mixed special (Banh Mi Thap Cam). - Banh Mi Madam Khanh - The Banh Mi Queen
Address: 115 Tran Cao Van Str., Hoi An
Highlights: Legendary local spot known for generous fillings and rich juicy sauce. - Banh Mi Lanh
Address: 430 Cua Dai Str., Hoi An - Banh Mi Bich
Address: 51 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An
4. Cao Lau (Hoi An Signature Noodles)
Cao Lau translates to "High Floor." Historically, merchants sat on upper floors of local eateries to enjoy this dish while watching their cargo ships. Features thick chewy rice noodles topped with tender savory roast pork (Char Siu), crunchy fried dough crackers, fresh local greens, and rich jus.
Top Recommended Cao Lau Restaurants in Hoi An
- Cao Lau Thanh
Address: 26 Thai Phien Str., Hoi An - Cao Lau Lien
Address: 21B Thai Phien Str., Hoi An - Cao Lau Ba Be
Address: 19 Tran Phu Str. (inside market area), Hoi An - Cao Lau Khong Gian Xanh
Address: 687 Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An - Cao Lau Trung Bac
Address: 87 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An - Cao Lau Ong Ty
Address: 71 Phan Chu Trinh Str., Hoi An - Van Loc Restaurant
Address: 27 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An
5. Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose Dumplings)
Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose Dumplings) is made from translucent rice dough filled with minced shrimp or pork, shaped like a blooming white rose, topped with crispy fried shallots and dipping sauce.
Top Recommended Places to Eat White Rose Dumplings
- White Rose Restaurant (Nhà hàng Bông Hồng Trắng)
Address: 533D Hai Ba Trung Str., Hoi An
Insider Tip: The original bakery-restaurant that supplies White Rose dumplings across Hoi An. - Trong Com Restaurant
Address: 92 Bach Dang Str., Hoi An - Trung Bac Restaurant
Address: 97 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An
6. Hoanh Thanh (Hoi An Wonton Dumplings)
Introduced by Chinese merchants centuries ago, Hoanh Thanh (Wontons) are filled with pork and shrimp, served in clear soup broth or deep-fried until golden and topped with sweet-and-sour tomato sauce.
Top Recommended Places for Hoi An Wontons
- Nguyen Loi Restaurant
Address: 78 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An - Hoang Ky Restaurant
Address: 67 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An - Anh Dung Restaurant
Address: 14 Ba Trieu Str., Hoi An - Van Loc Restaurant
Address: 27 Tran Phu Str., Hoi An
7. Gieng Ba Le (Ba Le Well Local Eatery)
Gieng Ba Le (Ba Le Well Restaurant) is a famous local dining spot hidden down an alley near the historic Ba Le Well, specializing in set menus of Banh Xeo, Nem Lui (lemongrass pork skewers), and grilled pork with peanut dipping sauce.
Address: 45/51 Tran Hung Dao Str., Hoi An
For more restaurant recommendations, check out our full guide to restaurants in Hoi An.
Hoi An Nightlife - Bars & Cafes
While Hoi An is famous for its peaceful evenings, the town offers a lively selection of riverside bars, live music venues, and beach clubs after dark.
1. Mango Mango
Located next to Hoi An's famous Japanese Covered Bridge, funky Mango Mango offers cocktails, wine, Latin music, and fusion cuisine.
Address: 45 Nguyen Phuc Chu Str., Hoi An
2. Why Not Club Bar Hoi An
A popular nightlife spot on the riverside featuring upbeat music and drinks.
Address: 55 Nguyen Phuc Chu Str., Hoi An
3. New Club 92
Modern nightclub featuring contemporary lighting and music in the Old Town area.
Address: Bo Ho 1 Str., Cam Ha Ward, Hoi An
4. Double Cat Bar
Known for home-style snacks, dumplings, and signature cocktails near An Bang Beach.
Address: 113A Phan Van Vinh Str., An Bang Beach, Hoi An
5. Barconcú Classic Bar
Cozy bar hosting live music nights, craft drinks, and weekly social events.
Address: 121 Ba Trieu Str., Minh An Ward, Hoi An
6. Shore Club, An Bang Beach
Private beachfront lounge offering oceanview daybeds, cocktails, and international dining.
Address: An Bang Beach, Hoi An
7. Heliport Nightclub
Energetic club venue hosting local and international DJs playing techno, house, and urban beats.
Address: 27 Le Quy Don Str., Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An
8. The Deck Hoi An
Rooftop bar at Hotel Royal Hoi An featuring sweeping views over Hoi An and the Thu Bon River.
Address: 39 Dao Duy Tu Str., Hoi An
9. Hair of the Dog Bar Hoi An
Popular party bar housed in a historic building, blending classic architecture with modern nightlife energy.
Address: 16 Thoai Ngoc Hau Str., Hoi An
10. Tam Tam Cafe
A historic culinary landmark operating since 1996, serving Vietnamese and Western favorites in a classic building setting.
Address: 110 Nguyen Thai Hoc Str., Hoi An
The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An
11. The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An
Riverside Irish pub serving draught beer, pub food, live sports broadcasts, and evening music.
Address: 21 Nguyen Phuc Chu Str., Hoi An
12. King Tiger Tiger Bar
Lively backpacker bar and dance club located along the riverfront.
Address: 65 Nguyen Phuc Chu Str., Hoi An
13. The DeckHouse An Bang Beach
Beachfront restaurant and lounge perfect for day long relaxation, sunbeds, and oceanfront dining.
Address: An Bang Beach, Hoi An
14. Salt Pub & Restaurant
Oceanview pub at Beachside Boutique Resort serving craft beers, spirits, and western comfort foods.
Address: 32 Nguyen Phan Vinh Str., An Bang Beach, Hoi An
Last updated: August 2026
Compiled by WayToVietnam Local Travel Expert - Mr. Do Van Le
Frequently Asked Questions
* Traveler Tip: Whether you search for "Hoi An, Quang Nam" or "Hoi An, Da Nang", navigation apps, ride-hailing services, and tour operators can still direct you to Hoi An Ancient Town without difficulty.
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