Hoi An, Vietnam Travel Guide: Ancient Town Highlights, River Cruises & Night Market Magic

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric destinations, known for its remarkably preserved trading port and gentle pace of life. From the 15th to the 19th century, Hoi An was a major commercial hub linking Vietnam with China, Japan, and Europe, and the legacy of that global exchange is still visible today in architecture, food, and traditions. Unlike larger Vietnamese cities, Hoi An feels compact and walkable, encouraging slow exploration rather than rushed sightseeing. Lantern-lit streets, wooden shop-houses, and riverside paths create a setting that feels both historic and lived-in. The attractions below are ordered by popularity first, then grouped by proximity to help visitors build relaxed, logical days.

Top Attractions & Experiences

Ancient Town walking tour

The Ancient Town is the heart of Hoi An and the reason the city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking its narrow streets reveals a carefully preserved blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences. Traditional wooden houses, old merchant shops, assembly halls, and temples sit side by side, many still used by local families. A walking tour—guided or self-paced—helps visitors understand how Hoi An functioned as a trading port and why it escaped large-scale modernization. The area feels especially atmospheric in the early morning or evening, when foot traffic replaces vehicles and lanterns begin to glow.

• Things to do or see there
  • Explore historic shop-houses and temples
  • Walk car-free streets during set hours
  • Learn about Hoi An’s trading history
• How to get there Central Hoi An; walk or cycle from most accommodations.
• How much time to spend there 2–4 hours.
• Address Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam. Google map
• Notes Early mornings are quieter and cooler.

Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is Hoi An’s most iconic landmark and a symbol of the town’s multicultural past. Built in the early 17th century by the Japanese community, the bridge once linked Japanese and Chinese quarters. Its arched wooden structure, tiled roof, and small temple inside reflect both practical design and spiritual meaning. Though modest in size, the bridge carries centuries of history and remains a focal point for visitors and locals alike. Stopping here makes more sense as part of a broader Ancient Town walk rather than a standalone visit.

• Things to do or see there
  • Admire the historic wooden structure
  • Photograph the bridge from nearby angles
  • Learn about Japanese influence in Hoi An
• How to get there Located within the Ancient Town.
• How much time to spend there 15–30 minutes.
• Address Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St, Hoi An. Google map
• Notes Visit early to avoid heavy foot traffic.

Thu Bon River cruise

A cruise on the Thu Bon River offers a slower perspective on Hoi An and its surroundings. The river once carried goods from inland villages to the sea, supporting the town’s trading success. Today, short boat rides provide views of riverside life, fishing boats, and lantern-lit banks after sunset. While simple, the experience helps connect the Ancient Town to the natural landscape that sustained it for centuries. Evening rides are especially popular for their calm atmosphere and reflections on the water.

• Things to do or see there
  • Enjoy riverside views
  • See traditional boats in use
  • Experience lantern-lit evenings
• How to get there Boat piers near the Ancient Town.
• How much time to spend there 30–60 minutes.
• Address Thu Bon River, Hoi An. Google map
• Notes Sunset offers the best atmosphere.

Hoi An Night Market

The Hoi An Night Market comes alive after sunset, adding energy and color to the old town area. Stalls line the streets selling lanterns, souvenirs, snacks, and simple street food. While not the place for quiet exploration, it offers a lively contrast to daytime sightseeing. Wandering here works best after dinner or alongside a river walk, soaking in the festive mood without rushing.”

• Things to do or see there
  • Browse lantern and souvenir stalls
  • Try local snacks
  • Enjoy evening street atmosphere
• How to get there Walk from the Ancient Town.
• How much time to spend there 1–2 hours.
• Address Nguyen Hoang Street, Hoi An. Google map
• Notes Crowds peak between 7–9 pm.

An Bang Beach

An Bang Beach provides a relaxed coastal escape just outside Hoi An. Unlike busier resort beaches elsewhere in Vietnam, it maintains a casual, local feel with a mix of beach cafés and open sand. The beach is popular for swimming, lounging, and sunset views, making it a good balance to time spent in the historic center. Cycling here through rice fields is part of the experience, reinforcing Hoi An’s slow-paced charm.

• Things to do or see there
  • Swim and relax on the sand
  • Enjoy seaside cafés
  • Watch sunset over the sea
• How to get there Bike or taxi from Hoi An center.
• How much time to spend there Half day.
• Address An Bang Beach, Hoi An. Google map
• Notes Mornings are quieter and cooler.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Local cafés & boutique streets

Beyond main streets, Hoi An hides quiet lanes filled with independent cafés and boutiques. These spots showcase local design, slower rhythms, and creative energy away from tour groups.

• Things to do or see there
  • Relax in independent cafés
  • Browse handmade goods
  • Enjoy quieter streets
• How to get there Wander beyond main Ancient Town roads.
• How much time to spend there Flexible.
• Address Central Hoi An. {gmap(“Hoi An cafes”)}
• Notes Late mornings are ideal.

Photography Hotspots

• Lantern-lit Ancient Town streets
• Japanese Covered Bridge
• Thu Bon River at sunset
• An Bang Beach shoreline
• Old merchant houses

Pro Tips & Local Secrets

• Walk or cycle. The town is compact and flat.
• Start early. Mornings are cooler and quieter.
• Balance town and beach. Avoid overload.
• Stay nearby. Central lodging reduces transport needs.
• Respect heritage. Many old houses are still homes.

Hoi An is best experienced slowly, with time to wander, observe, and return to favorite spots. Its mix of preserved architecture, river life, beaches, and creative energy creates a rare balance between history and leisure. For travelers searching for the best things to do in Hoi An, pacing the visit and exploring beyond the main streets reveals the town’s most rewarding moments.