Discovering Hoi An: 10 Unforgettable Experiences

Hoi An, a captivating town nestled along the central coast of Vietnam, beckons travelers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and array of unique experiences. Whether wandering through its ancient streets or immersing in its culinary delights, Hoi An offers something magical for everyone. Wondering what to prioritize and explore during your visit to Hoi An? Let’s take a look at the list of activities in Hoi An below!

1. Wander Through the Ancient Town

With its captivating vintage allure and UNESCO recognition, Hoi An Ancient Town rightfully claims the top spot on my list of Hoi An Vietnam activities.

Featuring closely nestled ancient merchant houses dating back to the 15th century, the town exudes a distinct charm. Each location boasts its own unique characteristics. You should take your time and visit:

For an optimal experience, consider scheduling your visit to Hoi An Ancient Town between February and September.

2. Savor Local Cuisine

Indulge in Hoi An’s culinary treasures with a gastronomic adventure through its bustling streets and hidden alleys. Taste signature dishes like:

• Cao Lau: an incredibly signature dish of Hoi An. This dish consists of round, chewy noodles served with flavorful slices of char siu pork. Price: About 1,5 USD/dish
• Quang Noodle: includes a variety of ingredients of char siu, eggs, chicken, and shrimp. Price: About 1,5 – 2 USD/bowl
• Chicken Rice: Hoi An’s chicken rice is flavorful and worth a try. The chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces, and the fragrant rice complements the dish perfectly. Price: About 1,5 USD/dish

3. Take a Boat Ride Along the Thu Bon River

Drift along the tranquil waters of the Thu Bon River on a leisurely boat ride, offering panoramic views of Hoi An’s idyllic countryside and traditional riverside life. Witness the beauty of lush greenery, quaint fishing villages, and vibrant water coconut forests.

I’ve discovered two perfect moments for river boating: late afternoon, during sunset, when the sun casts captivating shadows on the water, and in the evening, when twinkling lights and candles create a romantic ambiance.

While cruising along the river, observing charming houses and bustling activities on either side, coupled with the backdrop of the setting sun, you’ll experience a sense of joy and tranquility. Typically, the boat ride costs around 2 – 3 USD per person, with each boat accommodating 3 – 6 people at a time.

4. Have a cup of Mot

The preference for this particular beverage varies among individuals. However, I recommend giving it a try, as it’s a distinctive feature of Hoi An.

Mot water is a delightful herbal drink concocted with lemon, ginger, lemongrass, chrysanthemum flowers, dried lotus leaves, green tea leaves, honey, and other ingredients. It aids in detoxification, cools the body, and promotes overall health.

You can experience this beverage at 150 Tran Phu, Hoi An, at a price of 0.5 USD per cup

5. Experience a Day of Farming

The serene atmosphere and clean air of Hoi An evoke a picturesque countryside setting. The town meticulously preserves and sustains traditional artisanal agricultural practices. Travelers to Hoi An have the option to partake in either a full-day or half-day immersion in the rural essence:

• Experience Village Life in Cam Thanh: Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of Cam Thanh Village, where time seems to stand still amidst verdant rice paddies and tranquil waterways. Engage in traditional activities such as basket boat rowing, fishing with local fishermen, and exploring eco-friendly farming practices.
• Discover Tra Que Vegetable Village: Embark on a sensory journey through Tra Que Vegetable Village, where lush green fields of fragrant herbs and vegetables await. Participate in hands-on farming activities, learn about organic cultivation methods, and savor the fresh flavors of farm-to-table cuisine in a traditional village setting.

Ensure that the day of your adventure has good weather conditions >>> When to Visit Hoi An: Weather Insights and Travel Tips

6. Explore My Son Sanctuary

Uncover the mysteries of My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amidst lush jungles and rolling hills. Marvel at the intricate architecture of its ancient Hindu temples, dating back over a thousand years and showcasing the rich heritage of the Champa Kingdom.

Hoi An is also one of the wonders of Southeast Asia’s heritage, explore >>> Southeast Asia’s Heritage Wonders: Exploring Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang

7. Relax on the Beach

Apart from the historic town and verdant countryside, Hoi An also offers breathtaking and peaceful beaches. Hoi An is home to exquisite beaches like Cua Dai, Ha My, and An Bang. Visitors can unwind at beachfront resorts, savor delectable seafood, and bask in the vibrant azure waters beneath the golden sunshine.

You love the sea, you want to explore the beautiful beaches in Vietnam? Let’s Explore Vietnam’s Top 5 Best Surfing Beaches

8. Engage in Traditional Games and Activities

Delving into Hoi An extends beyond sightseeing and experiencing local activities; it encompasses soaking up the festive atmosphere and communal lifestyle of the friendly locals. In addition to agricultural exploration, you can engage in community events, including:

9. Watch a Culture Show

If you’re interested in experiencing Vietnamese artistic performances, consider attending one of these two remarkable shows:

Hoi An Memories: Each part of the performance seamlessly integrates with the stories of Hoi An, spanning its historical eras.

• Location: Hoi An Impression Theme Park (Con Hen, 159 Nguyen Tri Phuong). Accessible by both boat and foot.
• Ticket Price: $21 – $41 per person.
• The show runs every evening from 8 to 9 PM, seven days a week. Reserve your seat by booking tickets through the official website at hoianmemoriesland.com.

Hoi An Memories Show vividly portrays the daily life scenes

Teh Dar show: Teh Dar offers a captivating and artistically rich circus-inspired performance, drawing inspiration from the mountainous communities of Central Highland Vietnam.

• Location: 1A Nguyen Phuc Chu, Minh An, Hoi An.
• Ticket Price: $21 – $66 per person.
• The show typically starts at 8 PM. Check and purchase tickets on the website luneproduction.com.

An impressive scene of Hoi An Teh Dar circus performance

10. Participate in a Cooking Class

The cooking class offers an intriguing opportunity to delve into the local lifestyle. You’ll explore the bustling market, selecting fresh ingredients and hand-picked vegetables before immersing yourself in the culinary process to gain hands-on experience in preparing and garnishing Hoi An’s signature dishes.

Typically set in garden surroundings with an authentic and tranquil ambiance, cooking classes in Hoi An provide more than just recipes. They offer a chance to engage with local hosts, learn about their lives, traditions, and distinct culinary methods. A half-day cooking class usually costs around 16 – 20 USD.

Related tours to Hoi An: