Things to do in Hoi An

Why go to Hoi An

• Hoi An Ancient Town

  A perfectly preserved 15th-century trading port glowing with hundreds of silk lanterns every night, one of Southeast Asia's most photogenic places.

• An Bang Beach

  A laid-back stretch of golden sand just 5 km from the Old Town, largely free of the resort crowds that plague other Vietnamese beaches.

• My Son Sanctuary

  Ancient Cham Hindu temple ruins hidden in a jungle valley, a haunting UNESCO World Heritage Site that rivals Angkor in atmosphere.

• Thu Bon River Boat Ride & Basket Boats

  Glide through backwater coconut palm forests in a spinning coracle basket boat, a uniquely Vietnamese and genuinely thrilling experience.

• Hoi An Night Market

  Every evening the Old Town bridges and alleyways fill with lanterns, street food stalls, and silk vendors creating a magical, free-to-wander spectacle.

Good to know in Hoi An

• Transit: Rent a bicycle ($2/day) or motorbike ($6-8/day) to reach beaches, My Son, and surrounding villages; grab-motos are cheap for short hops within town.
• Tipping: Not culturally mandatory but appreciated, round up bills at restaurants and leave 10-15% for good service at sit-down spots.
• Tap water: Do not drink tap water; buy large 5-liter refill bottles at convenience stores for under $0.50, or refill at guesthouse dispensers.
• Free-entry days: The Ancient Town ticket ($5) covers entry to specific heritage sites; the streets, bridges, and markets are free to walk anytime, going early morning or after 6 PM avoids both crowds and the ticket checkpoint.

Trip essentials