24 hours in Hoi An Ancient Town: What to do and where to go

Hoi An, an ancient town nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, is a destination that attracts travelers from around the world due to its timeless charm. With its well-preserved architectural treasures, bustling fusion culture, and unique ambiance, it’s a place like no other. Even if you have just one day to spare, your journey here can be truly enriching.

Our recommendations for your 24-hour itinerary in Hoi An

Some important notes when visiting Hoi An

To ensure a seamless journey and enjoy the best of what Hoi An has to offer, it’s important to plan ahead. Firstly, it is about choosing the right time for your visit. Each season has its own pros and cons:

  • February – April: Springtime in Hoi An has pleasant weather with mild temperatures, gentle sunshine, and low rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the town and the surrounding attractions.
  • May – August: Be ready for the scorching heat and sunshine during these months. If you are visiting Hoi An during this time, we recommend you dress in light, comfortable clothing, and don’t forget to wear a hat and bring a fan to beat the heat. It’s worth noting that the midday and afternoon temperatures can be quite intense, so you might want to plan indoor activities like visiting coffee shops during these hours to escape the heat.
  • September – January: This is the rainy season. During these months, outdoor activities might not be the best choice. However, it’s an ideal time for a short retreat at a resort or to explore the city’s culinary scene, sampling local food and beverages at your leisure

Furthermore, don’t miss the chance to experience the traditional Lantern Festival, which takes place on the 1st, 14th, and 15th of the lunar calendar each month. Be sure to mark your calendar to enjoy this cultural gem and make the most of your trip.

1. Morning adventures

Why not start your day the Hoi An way, just like the locals do? For an authentic morning experience, we highly recommend heading down to the banks of the Huong River. Here, you can savor a warming bowl of Cao Lau or sip on a cup of local coffee while immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the surroundings.

To enjoy the morning charm of Hoi An, you can head to these in-town attractions: 

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: This iconic symbol of the old town carries the soul of Hoi An. What truly fascinates visitors is its distinctive Japanese architectural style, a testament to the town’s rich history of cultural exchange. In the morning, as the town awakens, the bridge exudes a unique tranquility that adds to its inherent charm.
  • The Ancient Houses of Hoi An: These well-preserved, centuries-old architectural gems showcase a blend of influences from various cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, and European. As you wander through Hoi An’s streets, you’ll encounter these beautifully adorned houses, each with its own unique character and story to tell, making these houses a feast for the eyes and a journey through time.

2. Midday adventures

Nothing is more satisfying than taking a break, relaxing, and indulging in the delicious local specialties of an ancient town. With the midday sun shining brightly, consider finding a cozy restaurant where you can sit down, enjoy a good meal, and have a pleasant conversation with your loved ones.

Here’s a menu suggestion for a tasty and satisfying lunch:

  • Hoi An Chicken Rice (Com ga Hoi An)
  • Hoi An Baguette (Banh mi Hoi An)
  • Cao Lau
  • Mi Quang (Quang-style noodles)
  • Banh xeo (Crispy Vietnamese Crepes)

These dishes will not only delight your taste buds but also provide you with a truly authentic Hoi An dining experience.

Besides, Hoi An is famous for its tailors. If you’ve had your eye on a custom-made outfit, this is a great time to visit a tailor shop. They can take your measurements and have your clothing ready in a day. 

If the outside weather is intense, another indoor activity you can try is exploring some of the town’s assembly halls, like the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and the Cantonese Assembly Hall. They are the multicultural heritage that represents the transformations of Hoi An in bygone centuries. 

When the weather becomes cooler and more comfortable, you can continue your journey by visiting the traditional craft villages in Hoi An. Here, you can explore up to 12 different kinds of craft, including tailoring, culinary arts, architecture, and the arts.

Depending on your location, you can choose the most convenient village for your itinerary. In addition to sightseeing and exploring the rustic ambiance of each village, you also have the opportunity to try your hand at various traditional crafts, such as pottery making, vegetable gardening, and experiencing the life of the local people. Don’t forget to buy some charming souvenirs, which not only make great gifts but also support the preservation and development of these unique traditional crafts in Hoi An.

Cua Dai Beach, located about 5 kilometers from the city center, is also one of our top recommendations. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll on the smooth, white sands, immerse yourself in the warm and clear water, and enjoy the sunset.

3. Evening adventures

In the evening, you can savor seafood at the beachside restaurants or eateries, which is an incredibly delightful experience. Alternatively, you can wander through the bustling night streets to enjoy a completely different vibe in Hoi An compared to the serene morning.

If you happen to visit during a lantern festival, you’ll witness the colorful street illuminated by thousands of lanterns. Along the poetic Hoai River, local people will release lanterns and make a wish. It’s a joyful and vibrant scene to be a part of. 

Additionally, there are various entertainment activities like the Bai Choi performance on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street or the blindfolded pot smashing game at Kazik Park, which often captivate many tourists during their visit to Hoi An.

We hope this 24-hour itinerary from Da Nang International Terminal makes it easier for you to plan your upcoming trip. 

At Da Nang International Terminal, we are eagerly awaiting your arrival, ready to provide you with a warm and hospitable welcome. Let us be your gateway to an extraordinary journey filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. See you soon!

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Da Nang International Terminal

Address: Da Nang International Airport, Hoa Thuan Tay ward, Hai Chau district, Da Nang city, Viet Nam

Phone: +84 (236) 381 7878 

Email: info@ahtcorp.vn   

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