Top 10++ Incredible Things to Do in Hoi An, Vietnam

If you’re visiting Hoi An and seeking exciting activities, delve into this guide of the best things to do in Hoi An for a richer experience.

Step into a world where lantern-lit streets wind through ancient architecture, mouth-watering street food tempts you at every corner, and skilled tailors craft custom outfits in mere hours. From its timeless charm to its vibrant energy, let Asia Legend Travel guide you through 10++ of the fantastic things to do in Hoi An, a once-thriving trading port in Southeast Asia.

Discover the Nostalgic Charm of Hoi An Ancient Town — Among the Best Things to Do in Hoi An

Speaking of things to do in Hoi An, strolling around this charming “yellow town” is like stepping back in time to a place where history and culture blend seamlessly. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its centuries-old buildings, well-preserved traditional wooden houses, and ornate temples.

As you wander through its charming streets, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Assembly Halls, and the Fujian Assembly Hall. The town’s architectural gems, adorned with colorful lanterns and set against the backdrop of the Thu Bon River, create a picturesque and enchanting atmosphere that captures the essence of Hoi An’s rich heritage.

Do You Know: Hoi An was once a bustling port where Japanese, Chinese, and European merchants traded silk and ceramics.

Here’s a pro tip: Take a traditional trishaw ride through the Ancient Town for a unique way to see the sights. Local drivers know every hidden corner and shortcut, plus they’ll share fascinating historical insights along the way. For the best experience, book your ride in the late afternoon – you’ll avoid the heat and catch that gorgeous golden hour lighting that makes everything look magical.

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Witness the Vibrant Lantern Festival in Hoi An Old Town

The vibrant Lantern Festival in Hoi An is one of many things to do in Hoi An Old Town that takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month. During this magical event, the town’s electric lights are dimmed, and colorful lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a breathtaking display of light and color.

Join locals and visitors alike in releasing glowing lanterns onto the river while making wishes for good fortune. Between the shimmering lights on the water and the traditional performances throughout town, the festival creates an unforgettable evening that perfectly captures Hoi An’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag a prime viewing spot along the Hoai River. For the full experience, take a boat ride on the river and release your own lantern into the gentle current.

Back in Time with Hoi An Memories Show and Impression Theme Park

When it comes to unforgettable things to do in Hoi An, don’t miss the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show – Vietnam’s most impressive outdoor performance. Set against the backdrop of a riverside island, this immersive experience combines theater, history, and storytelling in a way that will leave you absolutely mesmerized.

The show features an incredible cast of 400 performers who bring Hoi An’s rich history to life through stunning costumes, choreography, and state-of-the-art lighting. You’ll be transported through time as you witness the city’s evolution from an ancient seaport to a thriving cultural hub. Throughout the 60-minute performance, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenes of traditional weddings, merchant ships, and local folklore – all masterfully woven together to create an unforgettable experience.

What Makes the Show One of Best Things to Do in Hoi An Vietnam?

• A massive 25,000 m² outdoor stage that sets the perfect scene
• Over 500 performers in dazzling traditional costumes
• Live elements including boats, lanterns, and animals
• Cutting-edge sound and lighting effects, including spectacular water features

Make sure to arrive early to explore the Hoi An Impression Theme Park surrounding the venue. It’s like stepping into a living museum, complete with historical building replicas, cultural performances, delicious local food stalls, and plenty of perfect photo spots.

Fun Fact: This isn’t just any show – CNN named it one of the world’s most impressive cultural performances, and it’s already entertained over a million visitors!

Pro Tip: Want the best experience? Book VIP or A-class seats ahead of time, and come early to soak in the theme park atmosphere, catch the pre-show performances, and grab some tasty local treats.

Must-Do in Hoi An Old Town: Get Tailor-Made Clothes in Just 4 Hours

Hoi An is famous for its tailoring, with countless shops offering quick turnaround times for custom-made clothing. Getting a tailor-made outfit is truly one of the most memorable things to do in Hoi An Old Town. In fact, Forbes magazine has even highlighted one of Hoi An’s premier tailors for their exceptional craftsmanship and customer service.

Why is Hoi An tailor heaven? In just four hours, you’ll walk out with a custom-fit dress or suit—and it won’t break the bank. Hoi An’s fashion style is distinct, trendy, and budget-friendly, with prices ranging from 15 to 100 USD, making it an ideal place to get clothing tailored to your liking.

Experience the Lively Hoi An Night Market

The Hoi An Night Market is a vibrant and bustling attraction that comes alive in the evening. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it offers a lively atmosphere filled with colorful lanterns, delicious street food stalls, and various souvenirs and handicrafts. Visitors can do many things to do in Hoi An old town, like stroll along the riverside, enjoy local dishes, and shop for traditional Vietnamese goods.

The market’s signature lantern displays create an enchanting ambiance that’s truly unforgettable, making a visit to this night market one of the most captivating things to do in Hoi An. Whether you’re a foodie, shopping enthusiast, or simply want to experience the city’s charming nightlife, the night market offers something for everyone.

Pro Tip: Bring cash to the night market. While some vendors accept online banking, many prefer cash payments.

Taste Iconic Hoi An Dishes like Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and More

Among the top things to do in Hoi An is exploring its culinary scene – a delightful journey for food enthusiasts. The town offers a wide array of local dishes and flavors, including:

• Cao Lau – a signature dish with savory noodles and rich broth.
• Mi Quang – a flavorful noodle dish with grilled meat, fresh herbs, some piece of grilled rice crackers
• White Rose Dumplings – a local delicacy wrapped like flowers

The fusion of traditional Vietnamese ingredients and international influences creates a culinary adventure that you won’t forget while exploring the streets of Hoi An.

You Know What: “Cao Lau” noodles can only be made using water from a specific well in Hoi An!

Take a Tranquil Boat Ride along the Thu Bon River

One of the most peaceful and scenic things to do in Hoi An is drifting along the gentle currents of the Thu Bon River, which flows quietly beside the Ancient Town. Once the lifeblood of Hoi An’s bustling port centuries ago, this river now offers visitors a serene escape from the town’s lively streets.

As you glide down the calm waters, you’ll pass by charming riverside homes, traditional fishing boats, and lush countryside landscapes. The view becomes especially magical during golden hour when the sun dips low, casting a warm glow across the water and the lantern-lit banks of the town. It’s an unforgettable moment, especially when viewed from the water with lanterns twinkling in the distance.

What You’ll See:

• Fishermen casting nets with traditional techniques
• Wooden boat builders along the banks
• Children waving from riverfront houses
• Towering areca palms and rice fields fading into the hills

Local Insight: Locals say the Thu Bon isn’t just a river—it’s a storyteller. For generations, it has carried fishermen, farmers, traders, and now travelers, gently guiding them through the rhythm of Hoi An life. Many believe a sunset ride here brings good luck and peace of mind.

Whether you’re seeking quiet romance, cultural immersion, or just a break from walking, a Thu Bon River cruise is one of the most soothing and soul-refreshing things to do in Hoi An Vietnam.

Explore Traditional Crafts in Hoi An’s Artisan Villages

Among the many things to do in Hoi An, visiting the traditional craft villages is an integral part of the rich tapestry of the city, offering an essential glimpse into its cultural heritage. Just a short journey from town, you’ll discover:

• Kim Bong, famous for its skilled carpenters and woodworkers
• Thanh Ha, where potters have shaped clay into beautiful ceramics for centuries
• Cam Ha, bursting with colorful flowers and fresh produce
• Thanh Nam, where local fishing traditions live on

These villages, which have preserved their crafts for generations, are must-visit destinations for anyone wanting to experience authentic Vietnamese artisanship firsthand.

At Thanh Ha Village, you can even get hands-on with the art of pottery. With the guidance of local artisans, you’ll learn age-old techniques and shape your own clay creation—a special keepsake to remember your time in Hoi An. It’s truly one of the best things to do in Hoi An during your visit here—don’t miss it!

Unwind on the An Bang Beach

Hoi An boasts world-renowned beaches with white sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sunshine, with An Bang Beach being one of the most prominent. This beach has even earned a spot on the list of the top 50 most beautiful beaches in the world. Craving peace and sunshine? An Bang Beach is your go-to escape.

Here, you’ll find a peaceful oasis, away from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. Spend your day lounging on pristine shores, soaking up the sunshine, and unwinding with a good book, chilled wine, or cold beer – definitely one of the best things to do in Hoi An.

Experience Rural Life at the Tra Que Vegetable Village

Tra Que Vegetable Village, located near Hoi An, is one of must-try things to do in Hoi An Vietnam. Visiting this village provides a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese farming methods. You can interact with friendly local farmers and learn about their sustainable techniques, like using seaweed from the nearby De Vong River as a natural fertilizer.

The village is known for growing a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables that play a crucial role in Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a serene place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and gain insight into the local way of life.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on the refreshing herbal tea made with fresh basil and lemongrass from the garden – it’s the perfect way to cool down after exploring the farm!

Hop on a Bamboo Basket Boat in Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village

Looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure? Head to Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village, just a short ride from Hoi An Ancient Town, and hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat—a uniquely Vietnamese experience that’s equal parts cultural and fun.

Glide through peaceful nipa palm waterways while local boatmen (and women!) spin your boat in playful circles, perform dance-like paddle tricks, and even let you try rowing yourself. It’s more than just a boat ride – it’s a window into the vibrant fishing culture and stunning water coconut forest ecosystem that makes this one of the most memorable things to do in Hoi An.

Along the way, you’ll see how locals:

• Catch fish using traditional nets
• Make creative souvenirs from coconut leaves
• Preserve their environment through sustainable practices

Fun Fact: The distinctive round shape of these basket boats (known locally as thúng chai) has an interesting history – they were reportedly designed this way to dodge colonial-era boat taxes!

Pro Tip: Book your tour for early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and gorgeous lighting – perfect for photographs and a peaceful experience away from the crowds.

Dive into the Underwater World to Watch Coral Reefs in Cham Islands

Cham Islands, located approximately 15 km from Hoi An’s Old Town, is a must-visit destination. While tourism services on Cham Islands are not extensively developed, this very fact helps the islands retain their pristine charm.

A visit to Cham Islands allows you to explore some incredible things to do in Hoi An, like:

• Snorkeling and scuba diving to explore vibrant coral reefs
• Boat rides along the island’s stunning coastline
• Relaxing on serene, pristine beaches like Bai Xep and Bai Chong
• Staying overnight in welcoming local homestays
• Enjoying bonfires on moonlit beaches
• Savoring fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen

From floating above vibrant coral gardens to savoring freshly grilled squid with sand between your toes, a visit to Cham Islands offers a breathtaking contrast to the lantern-lit lanes of Hoi An. With its blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty, visiting these islands is definitely one of the best things to do in Hoi An.

Pro Tip: Visit between March and September for the best underwater visibility and calm seas. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera for the ultimate eco-friendly adventure.

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Hopefully, this guide of top things to do in Hoi An has helped you discover all the amazing experiences Hoi An has to offer. From wandering through UNESCO-listed ancient streets and admiring the glow of lanterns to relaxing on pristine beaches and savoring authentic Vietnamese cuisine, this enchanting town truly has it all. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, beach lover, or culture seeker, Hoi An won’t disappoint.

Still wondering what to do in Hoi An? Need more specific details about activities, attractions, or seasonal events? Check out our detaitailed guides about:

• Hoi An Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know
• Da Nang to Hoi An: Essential Travel Tips and Options
• Top Tourist Attractions in Hoi An for an Awesome Trip
• Best Local Food in Hoi An: 10 Must-Try Dishes for Tourists

Let Asia Legend Travel help craft your perfect Hoi An tour filled with numerous unforgettable things to do in Hoi An. Reach out today and let’s turn your dream trip into reality.

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