Hoi An: 7 Essential Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Journey

Nestled in the heart of Central Vietnam, Hoi An is a picturesque ancient town that exudes charm and beauty in every corner. Whether you visit during the day or night, Hoi An’s captivating allure never fades.

Overview of Hoi An

Situated on the northern banks of the lower Thu Bon River, Hoi An is a UNESCO-recognized ancient town. Located about 30 km from Da Nang and 122 km from Hue, this quaint town is renowned for its mustard-yellow heritage houses and the lantern-lit river at night. The local cuisine, steeped in Quang Nam tradition, is also an unforgettable highlight for any visitor.

Beyond its rich architectural heritage, Hoi An preserves an impressive intangible cultural legacy. From local customs and folk art to cultural festivals and stunning natural landscapes, Hoi An offers a unique experience that draws travelers from all over the world.

Best Time to Visit Hoi An

The ideal time to visit this ancient town is from February to April when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. It’s best to avoid the summer months due to the intense heat and humidity, while the rainy season from October to November may also affect your plans.

For a special treat, plan your trip around the 14th day of each lunar month to experience Lantern Festival. On these nights, the town is illuminated with red lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere unique to this historical town.

How to Get to Hoi An

• By Air
  • The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which is about 30 kilometers away. Da Nang is well-connected with major cities in Vietnam and international destinations. Several airlines, such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways, offer direct flights from cities like Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), and international hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, and Tokyo.
  • Once you arrive in Da Nang, you can take a taxi, private car, or shuttle bus to there. The journey takes about 45 minutes by car.
• By Train
  • If you prefer traveling by train, the nearest station is Da Nang Railway Station. Trains run from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other cities to Da Nang. The train ride offers scenic views along Vietnam’s coastline, but keep in mind that travel times can be long (ranging from 14 to 20 hours depending on your departure point).
  • From Da Nang Railway Station, you can take a taxi or bus to Hoi An. The trip by taxi will take about 45 minutes.
• By Bus
  • Several bus companies offer services to Hoi An from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Hue. Sleeper buses are a popular choice for long-distance routes, providing a more comfortable experience for overnight journeys.
  • There are also shuttle buses that run directly from Da Nang Airport or the Da Nang City Center to Hoi An. Prices are affordable, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour.
• Private Car or Taxi
  • For a more convenient and personalized experience, you can hire a private car or book a taxi from Da Nang Airport or City Center. Many hotels in Hoi An offer airport transfer services, which can be arranged in advance.
• Motorbike Rental
  • For the adventurous traveler, renting a motorbike is a popular option. Motorbike rentals are available in Da Nang and Hoi An, allowing you to enjoy the scenic route between the two cities at your own pace. However, this option is only recommended for experienced riders familiar with local traffic rules.
• Shuttle Services
  • Some travel agencies and hotels in Da Nang and Hoi An provide shuttle services for tourists. These services offer a comfortable and affordable way to travel between Da Nang and Hoi An, and they can often be booked online or through your accommodation.

Transportation in Hoi An

Hoi An offers various transportation options, including buses, taxis, motorbike rentals, and the iconic cyclo. Renting a motorbike costs between 80,000 and 150,000 VND per day, while bicycles can be rented for around 30,000 VND.

However, the most enjoyable way to explore Hoi An is on foot or by bicycle. This allows you to fully appreciate the town’s charm at your own pace.

 Must-See Attractions in Hoi An

• Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu): Built in the 16th century, this iconic bridge is a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles.
• Fujian Assembly Hall: Originally a small temple, this assembly hall was built by Chinese immigrants and is dedicated to the sea goddess, Mazu.
• Cua Dai Beach: Just 5 km from the ancient town, Cua Dai is a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear waters, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
• My Son Sanctuary: A short trip from Hoi An, this ancient Cham temple complex offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Champa Kingdom.

Hoi An Cuisine

This town may be small, but its culinary scene is vast. Don’t miss these local specialties:

• Chicken Rice: A must-try dish, with succulent chicken served over fragrant rice. Check out Bà Thuận at 17/4 Hai Bà Trưng for one of the best versions.
• Cao Lầu: This unique noodle dish is only found in this beautiful place, featuring thick rice noodles, pork, herbs, and crispy noodles. Visit Trung Bắc at 87 Trần Phú for an authentic taste.
• White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao, Bánh Vạc): Delicate dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, available at the White Rose Restaurant at 533 Hai Bà Trưng.
• Bánh Đập and Hến Xào: Crispy rice paper pancakes paired with stir-fried clams – a perfect snack after exploring the town.
• Sweet Corn Pudding (Chè Bắp): Made from the famous Cẩm Nam corn, this sweet treat is refreshing and uniquely Hoi An.

 Important Contacts for Travelers:

• HA Police: +84 510 386 1204
• HA Post Office: +84 235 386 2888
• HA Hospital: +84 235 391 4660
• Tourist Information: +84 510 391 0919

Top 4 things You Should Never Do in Hoi An

With these shares, surely you also have exciting plans for yourself, right? If you intend to travel to Hoi An or Da Nang, feel free to contact V’Way immediately via phone number/WhatsApp +84 905 55 32 55 or our email [email protected], or visit the V’Way homepage https://vwaytour.com for more options with special prices!