Hoi An, a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are the top things to do and see in Hoi An:
- Explore the Ancient Town: Wander through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, filled with well-preserved historic buildings, atmospheric alleyways, and colorful lanterns. Explore ancient houses, temples, and assembly halls that showcase the town's rich history and cultural heritage.
- Japanese Covered Bridge (Cau Chua Pagoda): Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, an emblematic symbol of Hoi An. Dating back to the 17th century, this beautiful bridge features a unique architectural design blending Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese elements.
- Hoi An Central Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hoi An Central Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, spices, and handicrafts. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling market and sample local street food.
- Lantern Festival: Experience the enchanting Lantern Festival held on the 14th day of each lunar month. Admire the town illuminated by thousands of colorful lanterns, participate in traditional rituals, and enjoy cultural performances and street food.
- Tailor Shops: Take advantage of Hoi An's reputation as a tailor's paradise by getting custom-made clothing at one of the many tailor shops. Choose fabrics, styles, and designs, and have suits, dresses, shirts, and more tailored to your preferences.
- Biking Tours: Explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Hoi An on a biking tour. Cycle through verdant rice paddies, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes, and discover the rural charm and natural beauty of the area.
- Cooking Classes: Learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine by taking a cooking class in Hoi An. Visit a local market to shop for fresh ingredients, then learn to prepare traditional dishes such as pho, spring rolls, and banh xeo under the guidance of expert chefs.
- Relax at An Bang Beach: Spend a day relaxing on the pristine shores of An Bang Beach, just a short drive from Hoi An. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachside dining, and water sports activities at this beautiful stretch of coastline.
- Thu Bon River Cruise: Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Thu Bon River, which flows through Hoi An's Ancient Town. Enjoy scenic views of the town's waterfront, historic buildings, and floating lanterns, and watch the sunset over the river for a magical experience.
- Visit My Son Sanctuary: Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour's drive from Hoi An. Explore the ancient ruins of Hindu temples dating back to the Champa Kingdom and learn about Vietnam's rich cultural history.