16+ Things to See and Experience When Visiting Hoi An

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There are places that grow more beautiful the longer you stay, and Hoi An is one of them. The ancient town is not only a destination for sightseeing, but a place to be experienced fully, from early mornings when the streets seem to take their first breath of the day, to quiet evenings glowing beneath the soft light of lanterns. For first time visitors, the most valuable insight is knowing how to slow down, choose the right moments, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere that defines this town.

In this article, Wafaifo Resort Hoi An invites you on a gentle journey through the heritage, cuisine, traditional crafts, and romantic moments that make Hoi An so distinctive.

Experience The Culture To Discover The Heritage Of Hoi An

Before thinking about leisure or relaxation, Hoi An naturally draws visitors toward its cultural depth. The following experiences allow you to connect with the town’s heritage in a calm, unhurried, and emotionally enriching way.

1. Take a morning stroll through the Old Town

  • Address: 94 Bach Dang Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM
  • Ticket price: Free to walk through the streets. Entrance to heritage sites requires a ticket of 80,000 VND for Vietnamese visitors and 120,000 VND for international visitors.
  • Note: Wear comfortable shoes and pause at a sidewalk cafe to observe the rhythm of daily life

Mornings in Hoi An move at a different pace, quiet and serene. As the early sunlight touches the yellow walls, the Old Town feels calm, accompanied by the sound of bamboo brooms sweeping leaves and street vendors preparing for the day ahead. This is the ideal time to sense the authentic spirit of Hoi An.

2. Visit the Japanese Bridge, the symbol of Hoi An

  • Address: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds or late afternoon as the lanterns begin to glow
  • Ticket price: Included in the Old Town sightseeing ticket
  • Note: The bridge has undergone restoration and appears newer. Reading a bit of historical background beforehand helps deepen the experience

The Japanese Bridge, known locally as Chua Cau, features a distinctive design often described as houses above and bridges below. Built in the 17th century, it reflects the cultural exchange between Vietnam, China, and Japan. Its image appears on the 20,000 VND banknote, making it an enduring symbol of Hoi An.

At Wafaifo Resort Hoi An, you can also visit a thoughtfully crafted replica of the Japanese Bridge in our lobby, offering a quiet moment to appreciate Hoi An’s heritage and enjoy a beautiful photo setting, all without leaving the relaxed atmosphere of the resort.

japanese bridge hoi an

3. Visit Tan Ky Ancient House and Phung Hung Ancient House

These historic homes preserve the characteristic tube house architecture and tell stories of the merchant families who once shaped Hoi An’s prosperity. Listening to the homeowners share their memories offers insight into their way of life, how they adapted to seasonal floods, and the family values passed down through generations.

4. Visit the Hoi An Folk Culture Museum

  • Address: 33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: Midday or early afternoon
  • Ticket price: Typically included in the Old Town sightseeing ticket
  • Note: Allow at least 45 minutes. The museum closes on the 20th of each month. Food is not permitted inside the exhibition areas

For those who wish to understand daily life, traditional crafts, and folk performances in Hoi An, this museum is well worth the visit. More than 500 artifacts bring the town’s heritage to life, from customs and rituals to lantern making, Kim Bong carpentry, and Thanh Ha pottery.

5. Experience a full moon night and the lantern festival in Hoi An

  • Address: 94 Bach Dang Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: The 14th day of the lunar month. Arrive by 5:00 PM
  • Ticket price: Festival viewing is free. Lanterns typically cost 10,000 to 20,000 VND each. Boat rentals range from 150,000 to 200,000 VND per hour
  • Note: Streets can be very crowded. Keep personal belongings secure and choose your viewing spot early

On full moon nights, the Old Town turns off electric lights and gives way to thousands of glowing lanterns. Visitors can release floating lanterns, watch street performances, and take part in traditional folk games. The atmosphere feels as though Hoi An is gently stepping back in time, creating an experience that is both poetic and deeply memorable.

lantern festival in hoi an

How To Immerse Yourself In Local Life In Hoi An

If you are looking for authentic and down-to-earth things to do in Hoi An, setting aside time to experience local life is essential. These experiences allow you to discover the town through its scents, sounds, and small everyday encounters.

6. Visit Cua Dai Fish Market at dawn

  • Address: 89 Cua Dai Street, Hoi An, Quang Nam
  • Ideal time to visit: 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM
  • Ticket price: Free of charge
  • Note: Wear sandals or flat shoes, as the ground is wet and slippery. Bring small change if you plan to buy seafood

Cua Dai Fish Market begins its day before the sun rises. The salty sea air, lively calls of vendors, and baskets of fresh seafood arriving straight from the boats create a vivid and authentic scene. Visiting at this hour offers a glimpse of Hoi An beyond its familiar yellow walls.

cua dai fish market hoi an

7. Take film or vintage-style photos in narrow alleyways

Hidden alleyways lined with yellow walls, wooden doors, and bougainvillaea trellises offer a sense of quiet nostalgia. These spaces allow you to take photos without crowds, while the soft morning light brings gentle depth and warmth to each frame.

8. Cycle through Cam Kim and Cam Thanh

  • Address: Cam Kim – Cam Thanh village, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: Early morning or after 4:00 PM
  • Ticket price: Free, bicycle rental costs around 30,000 to 50,000 VND per day
  • Note: Check brakes and tyres before setting off. Bring water and sunscreen

Cycling through rice paddies, bamboo bridges, and traditional craft villages takes you away from the busy centre and reveals a quieter, more rustic side of Hoi An. The gentle breeze and unhurried pace make cycling one of the simplest ways to slow down. Along the way, you may spot buffalo grazing and wide stretches of green fields.

9. Paddle a basket boat in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest

  • Address: Cam Thanh, Hoi An, Quang Nam
  • Ideal time to visit: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
  • Ticket price: Around 150,000 to 200,000 VND per basket, usually for two people
  • Note: Wear a life jacket and a hat. If you are prone to motion sickness, sit low and focus straight ahead

The coconut forest feels like a living river landscape, with narrow waterways weaving through dense rows of water coconut trees. Sitting in a basket boat, you can drift quietly, watch local performances, and try catching stone crabs. The experience is lighthearted and offers a gentle connection with nature.

bay mau coconut forest

10. Learn how to make Hoi An lanterns

  • Address: 8/6 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to participate: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
  • Ticket price: Around 250,000 VND per person
  • Note: Workshops usually last one to two hours. Booking a day in advance is recommended. You can take your finished lantern home

Lantern making connects you with the spirit of Hoi An, from selecting bamboo frames to attaching silk fabric and completing the final shape. Through this process, you gain an appreciation for the patience and pride behind the craft. A lantern made by your own hands becomes a meaningful souvenir with a personal story.

11. Pottery making in the Thanh Ha pottery village

  • Address: Pham Phan, Thanh Ha, Hoi An, Quang Nam
  • Ideal time to visit: Cool mornings or mid-afternoon
  • Ticket price: Approximately 35,000 VND per person, often including a small traditional figurine as a gift
  • Note: Finished items need time to dry. Ask the artisan for guidance on storage and transportation

Located along the Thu Bon River, Thanh Ha is known for its long tradition of earthenware pottery. Under the guidance of local artisans, you can shape clay on a potter’s wheel to create cups, vases, or small decorative pieces. The process offers a deeper appreciation of craftsmanship and leaves you with a one-of-a-kind creation.

pottery making in the thanh ha pottery village

12. Learn to cook Hoi An dishes such as Cao Lau and Quang noodles

  • Address: Tong Van Suong, Cam Thanh, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to participate: Morning or early afternoon
  • Ticket price: Approximately 600,000 to 750,000 VND per person
  • Note: Please inform the host in advance if you are a vegetarian or have any food allergies. Classes usually include three to four dishes, with meals enjoyed on site

A family-style cooking class introduces you to Hoi An cuisine from its foundations, from selecting ingredients to balancing flavours. Preparing Cao Lau or Quang noodles yourself leaves a stronger impression than simply ordering them at a restaurant. Sharing the finished dishes in a warm, relaxed setting is an experience that feels both satisfying and memorable.

Experience A Romantic Evening In Hoi An

As evening settles in, Hoi An gently transforms. The streets grow quieter, lantern light softens the surroundings, and the river breeze cools the air. An unhurried evening itinerary, centred on light, water, and a few peaceful pauses, allows the day to end on a calm and memorable note.

13. Swim and unwind poolside at Swim City Café

As the afternoon light fades, the pool area becomes a tranquil retreat, offering a quiet contrast to the lively Old Town. You can slip into the cool water, enjoy a cocktail or a refreshing beer, and listen to soft music drifting from the poolside. The evening unfolds slowly amid the aroma of freshly baked pizza, gentle laughter, and the warm glow of surrounding lights.

relax at swim city cafe wafaifo hoi an

14. Release floating lanterns on the Hoai River

  • Address: An Hoi, Hoi An, Quang Nam
  • Ideal time to visit: After 6:00 PM, especially on full moon nights
  • Participation fee: Lanterns typically cost 10,000 to 20,000 VND each. Boat rental is around 150,000 VND
  • Note: Agree clearly on the boat fare before boarding. Take care when getting on and off the boat

As candlelight drifts across the water, the Hoai River takes on a calm and poetic character. Sitting in a small wooden boat, you release a floating lantern along with a quiet wish. The experience feels intimate and reflective, making it especially meaningful for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful moment.

15. Have dinner at the food court in Hoi An Market

  • Address: 19 Tran Phu Street, Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Ticket price: Market entry is free. Individual dishes usually range from 20,000 to 50,000 VND
  • Note: Food stalls close relatively early, so avoid arriving too late. Visiting in small groups makes it easier to choose dishes and find seating

The food court offers simple, authentic flavours served on low wooden stools, with inviting aromas filling the walkways. Signature dishes such as Cao Lau noodles, Quang noodles, banh xeo, and lotus seed sweet soup reflect the everyday tastes of Hoi An. The lively atmosphere adds warmth and energy to the evening.

dinner at food court in hoi an market

16. Walk along lantern-lit riverside streets

Both riverside streets are lined with glowing lanterns, their reflections shimmering across the water. It becomes clear why many refer to Hoi An as Vietnam’s city of lights. The cool river breeze and the sound of traditional music naturally encourage you to slow your steps and take in the moment.

17. Watch a movie in a private Cinema Room

A private cinema room offers a cosy home theatre setting, ideal for unwinding after a full day of exploration. Guests can choose a film, order snacks, or watch live sports in comfort. It is a relaxing option for rainy evenings or moments when slowing down feels most appealing.

private cinema room wafaifo hoi an

18. Stroll through Nguyen Hoang Night Market to shop for souvenirs

  • Address: Nguyen Hoang Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
  • Ideal time to visit: 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
  • Ticket price: Free of charge
  • Note: If you are taking photos at lantern stalls, ask for permission. A small fee of around 10,000 VND is often appreciated

Located just opposite the Japanese Bridge, the night market features rows of stalls selling handicrafts and charming souvenirs. First-time visitors will find it easy to pick up items such as mini lanterns, pottery pieces, or fabric bags, then pause for a simple treat like tube ice cream or grilled skewers. The lantern displays at the entrance are also a favourite spot for evening photos.

Things Tourists Often Miss When Visiting Hoi An

Hoi An is charming and peaceful, but the experience becomes far more rewarding when a few common pitfalls are avoided. With a little preparation, your journey can unfold more smoothly and capture the true spirit of the town.

  • Strolling through the Old Quarter during peak hours: Evenings and weekends tend to be very crowded, which can feel tiring and make photography difficult. If you visit during these times, choose quieter routes, move at a slower pace, and focus on observing the scenery rather than rushing to take photos.
  • Not carrying cash: Many street food stalls, lantern vendors, and night market shops only accept cash. Lacking small bills can be inconvenient and lead to unnecessary time spent searching for an ATM. Carrying small denominations makes purchases and bargaining easier.
  • Going boating and releasing lanterns too late: After 8:30 PM, the river area is often crowded, which can diminish the romantic atmosphere. Prices may increase, and wait times may become longer. Visiting earlier allows for a calmer experience and more beautiful photos.
  • Overloading your schedule: Hoi An is best enjoyed at a slower pace. A tightly packed itinerary often results in simply passing through rather than truly staying. Leave room to sit at a cafe, watch the river, or wander into an alleyway that catches your eye.

Tips For Fully Enjoying Hoi An On Your First Trip

For first-time visitors, a few simple guidelines can make exploring the town more enjoyable.

  • Be aware of vehicle restrictions in the Old Quarter: Many streets restrict vehicle access during certain hours, especially between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, and from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Walking or cycling is usually more convenient and helps you absorb the atmosphere.
  • Choose the best time for walking: Early mornings and late afternoons, around 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, are cooler and more comfortable, with softer light and less intense sun.
  • Release floating lanterns before 8:30 PM: This timing allows you to enjoy the peaceful mood along the river while still experiencing the romance of the evening.
  • Prioritise local dishes: Trying cao lau, mi Quang, and market street food is one of the best ways to understand the true flavour of Hoi An.
  • Dress for comfort: Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are essential, as exploring the Old Town often involves a lot of walking.

Elevate Your Hoi An Journey With Wafaifo Resort Hoi An

After a day spent wandering the ancient town, returning to a space that feels calm enough for rest, yet inspiring enough to continue the journey, is deeply rewarding. Wafaifo Resort Hoi An offers a stay that gently bridges the rhythm of heritage life with a contemporary resort atmosphere. Open spaces connect through airy corridors, allowing sunlight and natural breezes to flow freely, so each step within the resort feels as relaxed as a leisurely walk.

Often described as a quiet presence alongside the passage of time in Hoi An, Wafaifo Resort serves as a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility through thoughtful design and subtle comfort.

Why stay at Wafaifo Resort Hoi An

  • Convenient location: Approximately a ten-minute walk from the Old Town, making early mornings and late evenings easy to enjoy.
  • Design inspired by heritage: Spaces reflect the spirit of Hoi An with depth, restraint, and a refined sense of place.
  • Diverse dining options within the resort: From local specialities to international dishes, guests can vary their meals without leaving the property.
  • Comprehensive amenities: A spacious swimming pool, a calming spa, and dedicated activity areas suit families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
  • A place to recharge: Quiet surroundings offer the chance to restore energy after a day of walking and exploration.

If you wish to experience Hoi An in a relaxed and authentic way, let your journey begin at Wafaifo.