Unveiling the beauty of Hoai River - Hoi An’s most picturesque spot

Flowing through the heart of Hoi An, the Hoai River—a tributary of the Thu Bon River—stands as an enduring symbol of the town’s history and charm. Its name, “Hoai,” meaning “remembrance,” perfectly captures the river’s tranquil beauty and its deep connection to Hoi An’s cultural soul.

How to get to the Hoai river

Most visitors begin their journey to Hoi An from the nearby city of Da Nang, located just 30 kilometers away. From Da Nang, you can easily reach Hoi An by shuttle bus, private taxi, or motorbike. For those who love a bit of adventure, riding a motorbike offers a scenic coastal route — simply follow Vo Nguyen Giap – Truong Sa – Lac Long Quan – Hai Ba Trung until you arrive in town.

You can take a leisurely walk along Cao Hong Lanh Street, turn onto Tran Hung Dao Street, and continue straight until you reach the riverbanks — where the charm of Hoi An truly begins.

Top things to do along the Hoai river in Hoi An

Take a Peaceful Boat Ride Along the Poetic Hoai River

A boat ride on the Hoai River is one of the most iconic experiences in Hoi An. As your boat glides gently across the calm waters, you’ll see the ancient town unfold in a new light — rows of historic houses, lantern-lit streets, and bustling riverside markets creating a scene straight out of a painting. It’s a serene and unforgettable way to admire the charm of Hoi An, especially during the golden glow of sunrise or the romantic hues of sunset.

Release lanterns on the Hoai River

One of the most magical experiences in Hoi An is releasing colorful lanterns onto the Hoai River. Deeply rooted in local culture and celebrated during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, this tradition invites visitors to write their wishes on paper lanterns before setting them afloat — a symbolic gesture of hope, peace, and good fortune. 

Stroll through the winding alleys of Hoi An

Wandering through Hoi An’s narrow alleys is like stepping back in time. These charming lanes are lined with traditional shophouses, glowing lanterns, and artisan workshops. Along the way, you can sip rich Vietnamese coffee in cozy cafés, browse handmade crafts, and discover ancient temples that whisper stories of the past — each turn revealing another layer of the town’s timeless beauty.

Capture stunning photos from Hoi An’s iconic bridges

Hoi An is dotted with charming bridges crossing the gentle Hoai River, including the well-known An Tuong Bridge and Cam Nam Bridge. From these vantage points, you can watch boats drifting beneath you and admire the rows of centuries-old houses glowing softly in the afternoon light.

Savor local delicacies at riverside eateries

Dining along the Hoai River is one of the most delightful experiences in Hoi An. The riverside eateries set their tables close to the water, where the evening breeze carries the scent of local dishes and the sound of rippling waves. Here, you can enjoy everything from freshly caught seafood to signature specialties like cao lau, each dish bursting with authentic flavors that perfectly reflect the charm of this ancient town.

Unwind at cozy coffee shops by the river

For a slower pace, settle into one of the many coffee shops nestled along the Hoai River. Beyond serving aromatic Vietnamese coffee and refreshing smoothies, these spots invite you to simply pause and breathe. With outdoor seating overlooking the river and lanterns shimmering at dusk, they offer the perfect setting to relax, reflect, and absorb the tranquil rhythm of Hoi An.

Best time to visit the Hoai river

Best time of year

Hoi An enjoys two distinct seasons — the dry season and the rainy season — each offering its own charm. The ideal time to visit is from February to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm with gentle breezes and occasional light showers. 

During this period, the skies are clear and perfect for boat rides or leisurely walks along the Hoai River. From October to December, the town enters its rainy season. Though heavier rains may appear, this is when Hoi An reveals a quieter, more poetic side, with glistening streets and a peaceful atmosphere.

Best time of day

The evening is when the Hoai River truly comes alive. As the sun sets, hundreds of colorful lanterns illuminate the water, reflecting the warm glow of the old town’s yellow walls. A gentle boat ride at this hour is pure magic — the flickering lanterns, soft music, and cool night breeze create a dreamlike setting. It’s also the perfect prelude to exploring Hoi An’s vibrant nightlife, where the riverside transforms into a scene of serenity and celebration.

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