Things to Do in Hoi An - Ultimate Guide to Must-See Attractions

Hoi An
Hieu Tran, Unsplash
October 30
Written by Aisha Chen

Discover the best things to do in Hoi An and explore the must-see attractions of this charming destination in Vietnam. From stunning temples to colorful local markets, there are plenty of experiences to discover in Hoi An.

Welcome to the amazing world of Hoi An, a beautifully preserved heritage city in Vietnam. If you're wracking your brains about things to do in Hoi An, be prepared to be spoilt for choices.

Rich in history and culture, Hoi An is a vibrant destination with an array of attractions that perfectly caters to explorers like you. If you're wondering what to see in Hoi An, our definitive guide has got you covered.

From the charming old town, bustling markets, to the tranquil beaches, every corner of Hoi An has a story to tell. In this treasure trove, one thing is certain - you'll never run out of exciting places to visit in Hoi An.

To make your adventure a memorable one, we've pocketed the best tips in our trusty Hoi An guide. You're about to embark on an unforgettable journey, discovering the magic and allure of Hoi An. Enjoy your trip!

1. Japanese Covered Bridge

Historical Monuments and Architecture
a woman standing on a bridge over a body of water
Japanese Covered Bridge / Marina Lobato, Unsplash

The Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An is one of the main attractions and a must-visit spot in Hoi An. Built in the 16th century by Japanese traders residing in the city, this structure is a testament to Hoi An's historical and cultural heritage.

With its unique architecture and curving roof, the Japanese Covered Bridge is a true symbol of the city. For centuries, it has served as a significant landmark and a vital connection between neighboring neighborhoods.

In addition to its architectural beauty, the bridge offers stunning views of the Thu Bon River and the surrounding cityscape. It is undoubtedly a must-visit place in Hoi An to learn more about its fascinating past.

2. Hoi An Night Market

Food and Markets
people walking between food stalls under chinese lanterns
Hoi An Night Market / Chris Slupski, Unsplash

The Hoi An Night Market is one of the most vibrant and exciting places to see in Hoi An. Located in the old town, this market is known for its lively atmosphere, street food stalls, and colorful handmade products.

As you wander through the market, you'll find a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese foods, such as rice noodle dishes, fresh spring rolls, grilled meat skewers, and delicious local desserts.

In addition to food, the Hoi An Night Market is also a great place to find unique souvenirs, such as silver jewelry, custom-made clothing, silk lanterns, and handmade artworks. This is the perfect place to take home an authentic memento of your visit to Hoi An.

3. Historic Temples of Hoi An

Historical Monuments and Architecture
a yellow building with a tree in front of it
Historic Temples of Hoi An / Jamison Cameron, Unsplash

The historic temples of Hoi An are one of the main tourist attractions in this charming Vietnamese city. Located in central Vietnam, Hoi An is known for its stunning architecture and its rich history that dates back centuries.

When visiting Hoi An, you can't miss the opportunity to explore its beautiful historic temples. These temples are a testament to the cultural and religious influence that has left its mark on this city over the years.

One of the most famous temples in Hoi An is the Tran Family Temple, which dates back to the 18th century. This temple is known for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings. It is a sacred place for the people of Hoi An and a place of visitation for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

4. Merchant Houses of Hoi An

Historical Monuments and Architecture
boats moored in beach with coconut trees
Merchant Houses of Hoi An / Z E, Unsplash

The Merchant Houses of Hoi An are one of the main tourist attractions in this charming Vietnamese city. These beautiful buildings, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, represent the flourishing trade that existed in the region during colonial times.

The Merchant Houses stand out for their unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting the influence of Asian and European cultures. These houses used to be residences of wealthy merchants engaged in the trade of silk, ceramics, and spices.

With exquisite architectural details, such as carved balconies and tiled roofs, the Merchant Houses are a true historical treasure that will transport you back in time. Explore their exquisitely decorated interiors and discover the luxurious life of the merchants of yesteryear.

5. Silk Shops in Hoi An

Shopping and Commerce$$$
a yellow building with a tree in front of it
Silk Shops in Hoi An / Aiph Doan, Unsplash

The silk shops in Hoi An are a must-visit for fashion lovers and those seeking high-quality fabrics. Known as the silk city, Hoi An is home to a wide variety of shops offering high-quality and beautifully designed silk products.

You can find a range of items in these shops, from clothing and accessories to home decor, all made with the finest Vietnamese silk. Many of these shops also offer custom orders, allowing you to take home a unique and personalized souvenir from your visit to Hoi An.

In addition to the shops, you can also visit silk workshops where you can learn more about the silk production process and see firsthand how the threads are woven to create beautiful fabrics.

6. Hoi An Museum of History and Culture

Museums and Art Galleries

Discover the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, located in the heart of this picturesque city in Vietnam. This museum is a must-visit for all history and culture enthusiasts, as it offers a fascinating insight into ancient Hoi An and its cultural heritage.

At Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, you can explore a variety of exhibitions that span from the early human settlements in the region to the influence of Chinese and Japanese cultures on the city's development. Learn about the architectural evolution of Hoi An throughout the centuries and discover how it became an important trading port during colonial times.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum also hosts special and temporary events that provide a deeper understanding of Hoi An's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the past of this captivating Vietnamese city.

7. Ancient Streets of Hoi An

History and Cultural Heritage
a picture of a building with chinese writing on it
Ancient Streets of Hoi An / Thuy, Unsplash

The Ancient Streets of Hoi An are one of the main tourist attractions in this charming city in Vietnam. With its historic architecture and traditional atmosphere, these cobblestone streets transport you to another time.

Explore its narrow alleyways and discover ancient shop houses, temples, and covered bridges. At every corner, you'll find unique architectural details and an enchanting atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the Ancient Streets of Hoi An is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Explore artisan workshops and savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine at traditional restaurants.

8. Colorful Local Markets of Hoi An

Food and Markets$$$
multicolored hallway
Colorful Local Markets of Hoi An / Nathan Cima, Unsplash

The Colorful Local Markets of Hoi An are a must-stop for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the bustling local life. These markets, filled with colors and aromas, offer a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese products, from fresh food to handicrafts.

At the markets, you'll find a great selection of exotic fruits, fresh vegetables, freshly caught fish and seafood, as well as traditional meats and spices. You'll also find clothing, shoes, and accessories handmade by talented local artisans.

Exploring the Colorful Local Markets of Hoi An is an excellent way to immerse yourself in local culture and experience the authenticity of Vietnamese life. Don't miss the opportunity to try delicious Vietnamese street food and interact with friendly local vendors.

9. Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine in Hoi An

Food and Markets$$$
a yellow building with a tree in front of it
Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine in Hoi An / yvonne lee harijanto, Unsplash

Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine in Hoi An

Vietnamese cuisine is famous worldwide for its freshness, authentic flavors, and use of local ingredients. In Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage city, you will find a wide variety of delicious dishes that reflect the essence of Vietnamese gastronomy.

One dish you must try is pho, a rice noodle soup with beef or chicken, seasoned with fresh herbs and lime. You can also indulge in bun cha, a combination of grilled pork, rice noodles, and vegetables. Don't forget to taste the famous banh mi, a delicious Vietnamese sandwich made with crispy bread, pork or chicken, fresh herbs, and flavorful sauces.

Experience the authentic flavors of Vietnam in Hoi An and be amazed by the delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

10. Hoi An Cultural Heritage

History and Cultural Heritage

The Cultural Heritage of Hoi An is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Vietnam. This charming ancient town is renowned for its rich history and enchanting atmosphere.

In Hoi An, you will find numerous cultural attractions, such as temples, ancient bridges, and traditional houses. Take a stroll through its narrow streets and discover the unique architecture that reflects a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.

One of the highlights things to do in Hoi An is visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge, which dates back to the 17th century and is an iconic symbol of the city. Additionally, you can explore the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture to delve even deeper into the fascinating history of the region.

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