What to See in Hoi An: Attractions, Beaches And Recommended Itinerary

As I stepped off the plane in Da Nang, Vietnam, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and curiosity about the ancient town that lay ahead – Hoi An. This charming destination is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, waiting to be explored by travelers from around the world.

A Brief History of Hoi An

Hoi An’s rich history dates back to the 15th century when it was an important trading port for Chinese merchants. The town’s strategic location on the Thu Bon River made it a hub for silk production, tea trade, and other precious commodities. As the Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonized Vietnam, Hoi An continued to thrive, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Things to See in Hoi An: Attractions

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Hoi An is home to numerous attractions that showcase its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit spots:

• Ancient Town: This historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features well-preserved architecture, quaint streets, and vibrant markets.
• Phung Hung House: A stunning example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, this house showcases the skills of local craftsmen.
• Fujian Chinese Congregation Meeting Hall (Phuc Kien): This beautifully restored meeting hall is a testament to Hoi An’s rich cultural diversity.
• Quan Cong Temple: Dedicated to the legendary hero Quan Cong, this temple offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Chuc Thanh Pagoda: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the town, this pagoda features intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
• Tan Ky House: Another beautifully restored traditional Vietnamese house, Tan Ky showcases the skills of local craftsmen.

Exploring the Ancient Town

The Ancient Town is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Hoi An. With its well-preserved architecture, quaint streets, and vibrant markets, this historic district is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, exploring the various shops, restaurants, and attractions.

One Day Itinerary

Here’s a suggested one-day itinerary for visiting Hoi An:

• 8:00 AM – Visit the Ancient Town and buy tickets (120,000 VND / €5.00 per person)
• 9:00 AM – Visit Phung Hung House
• 10:30 AM – Visit Tan Ky House
• 12:00 PM – Have lunch at a local restaurant
• 1:30 PM – Visit the Chao Zhou Community Assembly Hall
• 3:00 PM – Visit Quan Cong Temple
• 4:30 PM – Visit Chuc Thanh Pagoda
• 6:00 PM – Relax on An Bang Beach
• 8:00 PM – Enjoy the night market

Three Days Itinerary

Here’s a suggested three-day itinerary for visiting Hoi An:

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Day 1:

• Morning: visit the Ancient Town and buy tickets (120,000 VND / €5.00 per person)
• Afternoon: visit Phung Hung House
• Late afternoon: visit Tan Ky House
• Evening: enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2:

• Morning: visit Central Market and try some street food
• Afternoon: visit the Fujian Chinese Congregation Meeting Hall (Phuc Kien)
• Late afternoon: visit Quan Cong Temple
• Evening: enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 3:

• Full day trip to My Son Historical Complex (150,000 VND / €6.00 per person)

Dining in Hoi An

Hoi An is renowned for its delicious Vietnamese cuisine, which combines fresh vegetables, meat, and seafood. Some popular dishes include white roses, canh vac, banh bao, cao lau, and pho. Here are some recommended restaurants:

• Secret Garden: This charming restaurant serves up delicious Vietnamese cuisine in a serene atmosphere.
• Mai Fish: Located on the banks of the Thu Bon River, Mai Fish offers fresh seafood dishes that are sure to impress.
• Madam Kieu: This local favorite serves up mouthwatering banh bao and other traditional Vietnamese dishes.
• Vy’s Market: This bustling market offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and seafood.

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When to Go

Hoi An has a tropical climate with two seasons: hot and dry (April-October) and cool and wet (November-March). The best time to visit is from December to March, when the temperatures are mild (18-27°C / 64-81°F) and there are few rain showers. Avoid visiting during the summer months (June-August) due to heavy rainfall.

Getting There

The closest airport is in Da Nang (45 km / 28 miles), which receives frequent flights from major cities in Vietnam. From Da Nang, you can take a taxi or bus to Hoi An (1 hour and 15 minutes).

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Getting Around

Hoi An is small and walkable, but for longer trips, consider renting a bike (available at many hotels) or taking a taxi.

Accommodation

Hoi An has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Consider staying outside the Ancient Town area for easier access to amenities.

Travel Insurance

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We recommend purchasing travel insurance with a reputable company, such as World Nomads, which offers comprehensive coverage and 24/7 support.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting Hoi An:

1. What is the best time to visit Hoi An?
   • The best time to visit Hoi An is from December to March, when the temperatures are mild and there are few rain showers.
2. How do I get to Hoi An from Da Nang?
   • From Da Nang, you can take a taxi or bus to Hoi An (1 hour and 15 minutes).
3. What is the Ancient Town like?
   • The Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features well-preserved architecture, quaint streets, and vibrant markets.
4. Can I rent a bike in Hoi An?
   • Yes, many hotels offer bike rentals for travelers to explore the town.
5. What are some popular dishes in Hoi An?
   • Some popular dishes include white roses, canh vac, banh bao, cao lau, and pho.
6. Are there any good restaurants in Hoi An?
   • Yes, many local favorites serve up delicious Vietnamese cuisine, including Secret Garden, Mai Fish, Madam Kieu, and Vy’s Market.
7. Can I visit My Son Historical Complex?
   • Yes, the full day trip to My Son Historical Complex is available for an additional fee (150,000 VND / €6.00 per person).
8. Is Hoi An a safe destination?
   • Yes, Hoi An is generally considered a safe destination for travelers.

Conclusion

Hoi An is a cultural gem that offers something for everyone – history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, trying local street food, or relaxing on the beach, Hoi An is an ideal destination for any traveler. With its rich history, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes, this charming town is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Additional Resources

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For more information about visiting Hoi An, check out these additional resources:

• Vietnam Tourism Board: The official website of the Vietnam Tourism Board offers detailed information about traveling in Vietnam, including tips, guides, and itineraries.
• Lonely Planet Vietnam: This comprehensive guidebook provides insider knowledge on visiting Vietnam, including cultural insights, travel tips, and accommodation recommendations.

By exploring Hoi An’s ancient town, trying local cuisine, and relaxing on the beach, you’ll experience the ultimate Vietnamese getaway. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Hoi An today!