Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, famous for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautiful lantern-lit streets, colorful temples, and historic buildings. Hoi An is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, including specialties like Cao Lau noodles and White Rose Dumplings. With its mix of traditional culture, tranquil atmosphere, and riverside beauty, Hoi An is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of history and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the town's historic streets and enjoying its beaches. During this period, temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The rainy season typically runs from September to January, with frequent showers, especially in October and November, which may affect outdoor plans. However, Hoi An's Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month, offers a unique and colorful experience throughout the year.
Must-See Attractions
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Hoi An Ancient Town – A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant streets, and beautiful lantern-lit evenings.
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Japanese Covered Bridge – A historic bridge dating back to the 16th century, offering a unique blend of Japanese and Vietnamese architecture.
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Chua Cau (The Bridge Pagoda) – A beautiful pagoda located at the center of the Japanese Covered Bridge, offering spiritual significance and great photo opportunities.
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Tan Ky Old House – A traditional house showcasing the fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural styles, reflecting Hoi An’s multicultural history.
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Hoi An Night Market – A bustling market filled with colorful lanterns, street food stalls, and handcrafted goods, perfect for evening shopping and dining.
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An Bang Beach – A peaceful beach located just a short distance from the town, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying local seafood.
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My Son Sanctuary – A short trip from Hoi An, this ancient Hindu temple complex is an important cultural and historical site in central Vietnam.
These attractions highlight the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Hoi An, making it a top destination in Vietnam.


Culinary Delights
Hoi An is famous for its unique blend of flavors, combining traditional Vietnamese ingredients with influences from its rich history. Here are some must-try dishes:
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Cao Lau – A signature Hoi An dish, consisting of thick rice noodles served with pork, fresh herbs, and crispy crackers, topped with a savory broth.
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White Rose Dumplings (Banh Bao Banh Vac) – Delicate, translucent dumplings filled with shrimp or pork, often served with a dipping sauce.
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Mi Quang – A flavorful noodle dish made with turmeric-infused rice noodles, herbs, peanuts, and pork or shrimp, typically served with a light broth.
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Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancakes) – Crispy pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, usually wrapped in rice paper and eaten with fresh herbs.
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Hoi An Grilled Pork Skewers (Nem Lui) – Grilled skewers of minced pork, served with rice paper, herbs, and a delicious dipping sauce.
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Com Ga (Chicken Rice) – A simple yet flavorful dish made with poached chicken, seasoned rice, and fresh herbs, often served with a side of soup.
The cuisine of Hoi An is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients, unique recipes, and flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage.


Where to stay
Hoi An offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, to suit all types of travelers:
Luxury Hotels & Resorts:
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Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – A high-end resort located by the beach, offering luxury villas, an infinity pool, and exceptional service.
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Anantara Hoi An Resort – A riverside resort combining traditional Vietnamese charm with modern comforts, offering a relaxing atmosphere.
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La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa – A beautiful retreat with a spa, swimming pool, and spacious rooms, located near the ancient town.
Boutique & Mid-range Hotels:
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The Hoi An Historic Hotel – A boutique hotel with a blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities, just a short walk from the Ancient Town.
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Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort – A serene resort offering wellness experiences, traditional Vietnamese architecture, and a fantastic pool.
Budget Guesthouses & Homestays:
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Sunshine Homestay – A cozy, budget-friendly homestay with personalized service and a local experience, located near the Ancient Town.
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Hoi An Backpackers Hostel – A popular choice for backpackers, offering affordable dorms and a social atmosphere, close to the city center.
Eco-lodges & Riverside Stays:
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Little Riverside Hoi An – An eco-friendly hotel located by the river, offering a peaceful and picturesque environment.
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Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa – Located along Cua Dai Beach, this eco-resort provides a tranquil escape with a blend of French, Japanese, and traditional Vietnamese architecture.
No matter your budget, Hoi An has a variety of accommodation options that allow you to enjoy its rich culture and scenic beauty.

Getting There
Hoi An is located in central Vietnam, and there are several ways to reach this charming town from various destinations:
By Air:
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The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport (DAD), which is about 30 kilometers (approximately 45 minutes by car) from the town. This airport has both domestic flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major cities, as well as some international connections.
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From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to Hoi An.
By Train:
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Da Nang Railway Station is the closest major train station to Hoi An, located about 30 kilometers away. You can take a train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang and then travel by bus or taxi to Hoi An.
By Bus:
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Several buses run daily from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang to Hoi An, with travel times from Hanoi taking around 16-18 hours and from Da Nang around 1 hour.
By Car:
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From Da Nang, you can easily reach Hoi An by car or taxi in about 45 minutes. If you are traveling from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, the journey by car can take 14-18 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Once in Hoi An, taxis, motorbike taxis, and bicycle rentals are available for getting around and exploring the town.