Discover 5 unmissable sights to visit in Hoi An ancient town

Nestled on the northern bank of the Thu Bon River, about 30 kilometers from Da Nang and 122 kilometers from Hue, Hoi An is a timeless town that seems untouched by the rush of modern life. Its signature yellow ancient houses, the glimmering river of floating lanterns, and the simple yet flavorful street food together create a charm that leaves every visitor enchanted. Let's find out things to see in Hoi An ancient town.

Hoi An ancient town

The ancient quarter of Hoi An itself is a photographer’s paradise — every street, every moss-covered wall, and every mustard-yellow house is a perfect backdrop for those seeking to capture the town’s timeless beauty.

With an entrance ticket priced at 80,000 VND, valid for 24 hours, visitors can explore three of the town’s most iconic heritage sites. These include the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient assembly halls such as Phuc Kien, Quang Trieu, Hai Nam, and Trieu Chau, and historical merchant houses like Quan Thang, Duc An, Phung Hung, and Tan Ky.

The ticket also grants access to street performances, folk games, and the vibrant night market that come alive after 7:00 PM. Along the Hoai River, the town glows with reflections of colorful lanterns between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM — the perfect time for a peaceful boat ride (about 200,000 VND per boat) and to release paper lanterns onto the water for just 10,000 VND each, a tradition believed to bring good luck and happiness.

At night, the ancient town transforms into a scene straight out of a dream — stroll across its bridges, enjoy live music at cozy cafés and bars, or watch one of Hoi An’s renowned performances such as Suong Som, A O Show, Teh Dar, or the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show.

Cu Lao Cham

Just 20 kilometers from Hoi An, the Cham Islands are a beautiful escape of turquoise waters and peaceful beaches. You can reach the islands by speedboat from Cua Dai Port in about 20 minutes (150,000–200,000 VND/person), or by wooden boat from Bach Dang Wharf, which takes around 2 hours but costs less (50,000–80,000 VND/person, plus 30,000 VND for a motorbike).

Accommodation mainly includes homestays, guesthouses, and tents, priced from 100,000–150,000 VND per night. Many offer island tours, snorkeling, fishing, and sea walking. Don’t miss top attractions like the Cham Islands Marine Museum, Hai Tang Pagoda, Cham Ancient Well, Tan Hiep Market, Yen Island, and Bai Da Chong Beach, where you can enjoy both culture and nature in perfect harmony.

Traditional Craft Villages 

Located just 3 kilometers from Hoi An’s town center in Cam Ha Commune, Tra Que Vegetable Village is famous for its lush, organic herbs grown in fertile soil. The village cultivates dozens of aromatic plants and leafy vegetables that have long supplied Hoi An’s local markets and restaurants.

Afterward, enjoy signature Hoi An specialties such as White Rose dumplings, mussel salad, shrimp rolls, Mi Quang, and Cao Lau, prepared with the very herbs you’ve just picked. It’s an authentic and peaceful way to connect with the local culture and the heart of Hoi An’s countryside.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Just 3 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, following the Hoai River downstream, lies the lush Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Cam Thanh Commune. 

Visitors can enjoy a basket boat ride through the narrow waterways shaded by vibrant green palms — an experience that has become a true “signature” of Hoi An tourism. Each boat carries up to two passengers and costs around 200,000 VND per person for a one-hour journey through the peaceful canals.

Beyond the boat ride, travelers can watch basket boat dancing performances, or learn to make charming handicrafts from palm leaves such as flowers, grasshoppers, rings, bracelets, and hats — lovely souvenirs of your visit. If you come during the eighth lunar month, don’t miss tasting the ripe nipa palm fruit, known for its crisp texture and natural sweetness — a refreshing treat after a tranquil day exploring this green oasis.

Beaches in Hoi An

Hoi An is home to some of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, each offering its own charm and tranquility. Just 3 km from the town center, An Bang Beach is known for its crystal-clear water, clean white sand, and peaceful atmosphere — once listed by CNN in 2011 as one of the world’s 50 most beautiful beaches. A few kilometers north lies Ha My Beach, recognized by The Telegraph (UK) in 2017 as one of Asia’s top 10 beaches. Despite its quiet, untouched vibe, Ha My still offers plenty of homestays, hotels, and beachfront resorts for visitors seeking a serene getaway.

Located about 5 km from Hoi An, Cua Dai Beach is a long stretch of fine white sand and calm turquoise water. Voted by Tripadvisor in 2013 as one of Asia’s 25 most beautiful beaches, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports. Visitors can also join local fishing trips, rent a boat for a short cruise, or simply relax to the rhythm of gentle waves under the golden sun.

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