Hoi An bucket list: 5 unforgettable things to do

Walking through the ancient streets of Hoi An is an unmissable experience for any traveler. The moss-covered walls, aged wooden houses, and winding alleys seem to breathe history. Every step echoes the vibrancy of a bustling past—when ships from across Asia docked here, and merchants traded silk, ceramics, and spices. Let's find out things to do when come to Hoi An.

Fully explore every corner of Hoi An ancient town 

Walking is truly the best way to uncover every hidden charm of Hoi An Ancient Town—one of Vietnam's most beloved destinations. Strolling along the narrow streets glittering with vibrant lanterns, you will be captivated by the mossy tiled roofs, the iconic buttery-yellow walls, and the tranquil alleys that reflect the enduring beauty of this ancient town.

You will encounter centuries-old ancient houses, Chinese Assembly Halls, and Japanese-style bridges, each recounting fascinating tales of cultural exchange and prosperity. Don't miss iconic landmarks such as the Tan Ky Old House, the Chaozhou Assembly Hall, the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu), and the ancient wells, all featuring unique architecture carefully preserved across generations.

Whether it is the golden morning sunlight bathing the streets or the soft glow of lanterns at night, walking in Hoi An offers an irreplaceable experience—peaceful, intimate, and profoundly captivating.

Discover the Cultural Heritage and Arts of Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is truly a living museum of Vietnamese culture, arts, and traditions. Beyond the charming yellow walls and the streets shimmering with lantern light, the ancient town safeguards countless traditional crafts and folk heritage passed down through generations.

A visit to the Thanh Ha Pottery Village or the Kim Bong Carpentry Village allows travelers to witness time-honored craftsmanship, where skillful artisans shape clay and carve wood into exquisite works of art. The ancient town also comes alive with traditional performances such as Hát Bội (Classical Opera), Tuồng (Vietnamese Classical Theater), and Bài Chòi (Folk Singing Game), offering visitors a chance to experience the rich performing arts of Vietnam and the soulful beauty of Hoi An’s cultural identity.

Adding to its allure, Hoi An hosts vibrant local festivals like the Lantern Festival, Cau Bong Festival, and Cau Ngu Festival, where locals and visitors come together in celebration. Each event paints the town in color, music, and joy — creating unforgettable memories for anyone eager to discover the heart of Hoi An.

Unwind by the sea at An Bang Beach

A short 6-kilometer ride from Hoi An’s center takes you to An Bang Beach, one of the most stunning and laid-back beaches in Vietnam. The journey itself is part of the joy — cycling through peaceful streets lined with palm trees until the sea breeze greets you at the end of Hai Ba Trung street.

Here, time seems to slow down. The powdery white sand, clear blue water, and gentle waves create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. You can take a refreshing dip, try surfing, or simply sit back with a drink, watching the sun melt into the sea.

Create your own piece of Hoi An’s magic

The soft glow of lanterns has become the soul of Hoi An. For centuries, these vibrant lights have illuminated the town’s narrow streets, bringing warmth and beauty to every corner. Today, visitors can do more than just admire them — they can learn the art of lantern making from the very craftsmen who keep this tradition alive.

At local workshops, you’ll be guided through every step of the process — from shaping the frame to wrapping the silk and adding your finishing touches. As you craft your lantern, you’ll discover the patience and creativity that go into this centuries-old art form. And when you finally light it up, you’ll carry home not only a handmade souvenir but also a deeper connection to Hoi An’s spirit and craftsmanship.

Enjoy the Hoi An Memories show – A spectacular journey through time

Among the many things to do in Hoi An, the Hoi An Memories Show stands out as a breathtaking cultural performance unlike any other in Vietnam. Staged on a vast outdoor theater of more than 25,000 square meters, this world-class production features nearly 500 performers, sophisticated choreography, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting effects.

The performance takes the audience on a 400-year historical journey of Hoi An, vividly recreating the town’s transformation from a peaceful riverside village into a bustling international trading port. Each scene tells a unique story—interweaving elements of history, culture, and emotion—to celebrate the heritage of this ancient land.

The show opens with the segment “Life,” which portrays the birth of the Vietnamese people and the humble beginnings of Hoi An. This is followed by “The Wedding,” a spectacular re-enactment of the historic marriage between Princess Huyền Trân and the Champa King, symbolizing friendship and cultural harmony.

The moving segment “The Lamp and the Sea” tells a compelling love story between a Hoi An girl and a sailor—a profound tribute to the town's maritime soul. “Integration” celebrates the era of East-West cultural exchange, while the grand finale, “Ao Dai,” honors the timeless elegance and national pride of Vietnam through the graceful beauty of the traditional Áo Dài dress.

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