A historic, largely car-free old town with colorful lanterns, well-preserved colonial architecture and one of Vietnam's best culinary scenes, just a short drive from Da Nang.
The coconut basket boat tour is entertaining, but tips are expected at several stops, good to know beforehand.
Since I stayed in Da Nang, I always took a comfortable Grab taxi to Hoi An for day trips and evening visits (about 40 minutes, €7–10 each way). Alternatively, you can rent a scooter (from €5–7/day) or take the bus (about 1 hour, around €1).
Creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, fresh ingredients and homemade specialties, cozy ambiance with stylish design. Daily 10am to 9pm.
Verdict: A paradise for vegetarians and food lovers, wins over with refined plant-based dishes and harmonious flavors, an absolute recommendation.
Authentic Italian cuisine, fresh pasta, crispy pizza and fine wines, stylish ambiance with a cozy atmosphere. Daily 11am to 10pm.
Verdict: Brings a piece of Italy to Hoi An, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy high-quality Italian dishes in an elegant setting.
Creamy bingsu in various flavors, specialty coffee and refreshing drinks, cotton candy in creative variations. Daily 8am to 9pm.
Verdict: A sweet paradise in Hoi An, whether fluffy cotton candy, refreshing bingsu or good coffee, every dessert lover will be happy here.
Creamy milk tea in various flavors, freshly brewed coffee, cozy atmosphere with modern design. Daily 9am to 10pm.
Refreshing shakes and smoothies, aromatic coffee and a wide variety of teas, relaxed atmosphere with stylish ambiance. The shake was wonderfully creamy, perfect for cooling off in Hoi An. Daily 8am to 9pm.
Various lantern shops in Hoi An offer workshops. In the 'Full Class' workshop (about 2.5 to 3 hours) you build your lantern from scratch, if you have less time, you can choose the 'Express Class' (about 1.5 hours), where a finished frame is already prepared and you just cover it with silk. A creative and relaxing experience with a great souvenir. Workshops available from 8:30am to 10pm, participation about €14.
From €4 per person. A fun and unique way to explore Hoi An's waterways, the small round basket boats make for an entertaining ride with music and performances. A typical tourist attraction with several stops, including one at a stage with music, where visitors are encouraged to tip.
Tip: A nice experience for the price, but tipping expectations at several stops are part of it.
From €4 for 2 people. A beautiful way to experience Hoi An in the evening, as the colorful lanterns light up the river, the boat glides through the quiet canals with a romantic view of the historic old town. The reflections in the water and the peaceful atmosphere make the trip unforgettable.
Tip: Best started after sunset to fully enjoy the magical lighting.
I can only warmly recommend taking a walk through Hoi An and exploring its beautiful streets and alleys. Charming shops and cafés, a wide range of scents and flavors from the excellent street food. Especially in the evening, when the town glows with its lanterns, the atmosphere is simply magical. An absolute must for anyone traveling to Vietnam.
Small street food stalls are everywhere in Hoi An, preparing local specialties fresh. Whether on street corners, along the river or in the old town, it's worth stopping to try something new.