15 Best Places to Visit in Hoi An (2025 Guide for Tourists)

The absolute best places to visit in Hoi An are the lantern-lit Ancient Town, the historic My Son Sanctuary, and the relaxing An Bang Beach. This guide dives deep into the top 15 spots for your 2025 trip, answering the key question: what to do in Hoi An, Vietnam. Discover now with Herbal Spa Hoi An!

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1. Must-visit attractions in Hoi An ancient town

Hoi An is pure magic, but with so many winding alleys and historic sites, where do you even start? It can feel overwhelming. Don't worry. This guide will break down the absolute must-visit attractions within the UNESCO World Heritage site, helping you make the most of your time and your ticket.

1.1 Japanese covered bridge (Chua Cau)

If you've seen one picture of Hoi An, it's probably of the Japanese Covered Bridge. This iconic structure isn't just one of the best places to see in Hoi An; it is Hoi An for many visitors.

Built in the 17th century by the Japanese community to connect with the Chinese quarter, this beautiful bridge is a masterpiece of architecture and a living piece of history. Inside, you'll find a small temple dedicated to the northern weather god, Tran Vo Bac De, who is believed to control the weather and bring good fortune.

While walking the charming streets of the Ancient Town is completely free, you'll need an entrance ticket to visit the key places of interest in Hoi An, including the Japanese Covered Bridge and other sites like old houses and assembly halls.

Hoi An ancient town Ticket: What you needs to know

• Price: 120,000 VND per person.
• What it includes: Entry to 5 different heritage sites. You can choose from a list of over 20 locations.
• Where to buy: Official ticket booths located at the main entrances to the Ancient Town.
• Pro Tip: The ticket is valid throughout your stay, so you don't have to see all 5 sights in one day. 

1.2 The old house of Tan Ky

Step back in time at the Old House of Tan Ky, one of the most fascinating places to visit in Hoi An city. This isn't just a dusty museum; it's a living piece of history where seven generations of the same family have lived for over 200 years.

What makes Tan Ky special is its unique blend of three architectural styles: the arched ceiling is Japanese, the roof is supported by Chinese-style beams, and the floor tiles are Vietnamese. It’s a perfect example of Hoi An's history as a melting pot of cultures.

Related Information

• Location: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Ticket: Requires one stub from your 120,000 VND Ancient Town ticket.

1.3 Fujian (Phuc Kien) assembly hall

Prepare to be amazed by the vibrant colors and intricate details of the Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall. Originally a traditional pagoda, it was later sold to the wealthy Fujian community from China to serve as their religious and social hub. 

This is one of the grandest Hoi An visiting places and a testament to the influence of the Chinese community. The magnificent triple-arched gate, the colorful dragons in the main courtyard, and the ornate altars dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu make it a photographer's dream.

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Related Information

• Location: 46 Tran Phu Street.
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Ticket: Requires one stub from your 120,000 VND Ancient Town ticket.

1.4 Hoi An Central Market

To truly feel the pulse of the city, a visit to Hoi An Central Market is a must. This isn't just a tourist spot; it's a bustling, chaotic, and wonderfully authentic hub of local life. 

Here you'll find everything from fresh produce and spices to live seafood and local handicrafts. But the real highlight is the indoor food court, one of the best Hoi An places to go for authentic local cuisine. Grab a stool and order a bowl of Cao Lầu or Mì Quảng for a cheap, delicious, and unforgettable meal.

Related Information

• Location: Tran Quy Cap Street (along the Thu Bon River).
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 7 AM) to see the market at its most vibrant.
• Ticket: Free to enter.

1.5 Stroll the lantern-lit streets at night

When the sun goes down, Hoi An transforms. The Ancient Town becomes a fairytale landscape, and simply strolling through the lantern-lit streets is an essential experience. This is truly what Hoi An is famous for.

The warm glow from thousands of silk lanterns reflects off the yellow-walled buildings and the tranquil Thu Bon River. The busiest and most beautiful streets are Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and the area around the Japanese Bridge. For a truly magical moment, buy a paper lantern and release it on the river for good luck.

Related Information

• Best Time: After 7 PM, when the lanterns are all lit.
• Tip: The town is pedestrian-only in the evenings, making it perfect for a leisurely walk.
• Ticket: Free.

2. Top activities & experiences in Hoi An

2.1 Massage at the Herbal spa Hoi An

After a day of walking through ancient streets, treating yourself to a spa session is more than just a luxury; it's a journey for your body, mind, and soul. An experience at a well-regarded place like Herbal Spa Hoi An is a complete therapeutic ritual.

It begins with a fragrant herbal foot soak, followed by a massage that uses ancient techniques to release tension, and ends with a warm cup of herbal tea. It's the perfect way to recharge and connect with your inner self.

Typical Spa Services & Price Range:

2.2 Take a Vietnamese cooking class

Want to take the flavors of Vietnam home with you? A cooking class is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. Many classes, like the famous Red Bridge Cooking School, start with a tour of the Hoi An Central Market to pick out fresh ingredients. You'll then learn to prepare iconic dishes like Phở, fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), or the local specialty, Cao Lầu. It's a fun, interactive way to learn about the heart of Vietnamese culture: its food.

1. Average Cost: Typically ranges from USD 25 to 45 per person, including the market tour and meal.
2. Tip: Book in advance, as popular classes fill up quickly.

2.3 Get custom clothes made

Hoi An is a tailor's paradise. You can get anything from a sharp suit to a beautiful dress or a perfectly fitting shirt, often for a fraction of the price back home. The process is simple: pick a design (or bring a photo), choose your fabric, get measured, and come back for a fitting. Most tailors can have your items ready in 24-48 hours.

• Reputable Tailors: Check out well-known shops like Yaly Couture or Bebe Tailor for guaranteed quality.
• Process: 1. Consultation & Measurement -> 2. First Fitting (usually within 24 hours) -> 3. Final Adjustments & Collection.

2.4 Ride a basket boat in the coconut forest

For a fun and unique adventure, head to the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, one of the best places to visit near Hoi An. Here, you'll hop into a "thúng," a traditional round bamboo basket boat, and be paddled through the serene waterways lined with nipa palms. The highlight for many is the incredible basket boat spinning performance by the local boatmen; it’s a dizzying, thrilling spectacle!

• Location: Cam Thanh village (about 5km from the Old Town).
• Average Price: Around 150,000 - 200,000 VND per person for a 45-60 minute ride.

2.5 Join a lantern-making workshop

Instead of just buying a lantern, why not make your own? This is a wonderfully creative and relaxing activity, perfect for an afternoon. Numerous small shops in the Ancient Town offer workshops where you can learn the entire process, from bending the bamboo frame to choosing and applying the silk fabric. You'll leave with a beautiful, personalized souvenir that you made yourself.

• Duration: Typically 1-2 hours.
• Average Cost: Around 150,000 - 250,000 VND per person, including all materials.

3. Best beaches & Nature spots near Hoi An

3.1 Relax at An Bang beach

Just a short ride from the town center lies An Bang Beach, a stretch of golden sand with a laid-back, bohemian vibe. It's the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon swimming in the clear water, reading a book on a sun lounger, or sipping a cocktail at a beachfront bar. The beach is lined with fantastic restaurants and casual clubs, making it easy to spend the whole day here.

• How to get there: A 15-minute bicycle ride or a quick Grab/taxi ride from the Old Town.
• Popular Beach Clubs: Check out places like The DeckHouse or Soul Kitchen for great food, drinks, and live music.

3.2 Cycle through the rice paddies

One of the most beautiful and authentic experiences is to simply rent a bicycle and explore the countryside. The area surrounding Hoi An is a patchwork of vibrant green rice paddies, lazy water buffalo, and small, quiet villages. It's a peaceful escape and offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. This is one of the best free things to do in Hoi An.

• Easy Cycling Routes: Head towards Cam Kim Island (via a short ferry ride) or cycle around Tra Que Vegetable Village for beautiful, flat paths.
• Bike Rental Cost: Around 30,000 - 50,000 VND per day from most hotels and rental shops.

 

3.3 Explore Tra Que vegetable village

Just a short cycle from the Old Town, Tra Que is a charming village famous for its fresh, organic herbs and vegetables. What makes this place special is that you can see local farmers using centuries-old techniques, like fertilizing with seaweed from the nearby river. For a truly hands-on experience, you can join them in the fields—tilling the soil, watering the plants, and learning about the produce that makes Hoi An's cuisine so delicious.

• Location: Cam Ha Commune, about 3km northeast of Hoi An.
• Entrance Fee: Around 35,000 VND per person, which helps support the local community.

4. Popular day trips from Hoi An

4.1 My Son Sanctuary

For anyone interested in history, My Son Sanctuary is an unmissable place to visit in Hoi An Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a cluster of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa Kingdom. Often compared to a smaller-scale Angkor Wat, the ruins are nestled in a lush green valley, creating a mysterious and atmospheric setting. It's a powerful reminder of a once-great civilization.

• Distance from Hoi An: About 40km, or a 1-hour drive.
• Getting There: You can book an organized tour (often including a boat trip back), hire a private car, or rent a motorbike for a more independent adventure.

4.2 The marble mountains (Da Nang)

Located halfway between Hoi An and Da Nang, the Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each named after one of the five elements. This is a fascinating place to explore, with a network of caves, tunnels, and pagodas hidden within. Climb to the viewpoints at the top for stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

• Location: Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang.
• Entrance Fee: 40,000 VND per person for Thuy Son (Water Mountain), the main accessible mountain.
• Elevator Fee: 15,000 VND per person each way (a great option to skip the initial steep climb).

4.3 Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)

If you're looking for a true island getaway, the Cham Islands are your answer. This group of 8 small islands forms a protected marine park and is one of the best places to visit around Hoi An for water activities. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering a chance to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The beaches are pristine and far less crowded than those on the mainland.

• Best Time to Go: The dry season, from March to September, when the seas are calm and the weather is sunny.
• Getting There: The easiest way is to book a speedboat tour from Cua Dai pier, which usually includes hotel pickup, lunch, and snorkeling gear.

5.  FAQ: Planning Your Visit to Hoi An

5.1 How many days are enough for Hoi An?

Two days is enough to see the main highlights of the Ancient Town. For a more relaxed pace that includes a day trip and time at the beach, 3-4 days is ideal.

5.2 What is the best way to get around?

The Ancient Town is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. To go further to the beaches or countryside, renting a bicycle is a classic Hoi An experience. For longer distances, the Grab app (similar to Uber) is cheap and reliable.

5.3 Is the Hoi An entrance ticket worth it?

Yes, absolutely. If you want to visit the key historical places of interest in Hoi An, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, old houses, and assembly halls, a ticket is required. It offers great value, allowing entry to five different sites.

5.4 What is the best month to visit Hoi An?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from February to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with lots of sunshine and minimal rain, making it perfect for exploring both the town and the beaches.

Hopefully, the content of the article above has helped you better understand not just the best places to visit in Hoi An, but also the rich tapestry of experiences that make this town so unforgettable. From the historical depth of the Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary to the hands-on fun of a cooking class or lantern-making workshop, Hoi An offers a journey for every kind of traveler.

Discover more:

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