Planning a trip to Hoi An and not sure where to start? Don’t worry — this charming ancient town offers plenty of unforgettable activities for every traveler. From strolling through the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town, tasting the iconic Cao Lau noodles, to cruising along the tranquil Hoai River, there’s no shortage of magical moments waiting for you.
To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a list of the top must-try experiences that will give you a deeper understanding of Hoi An’s culture, people, and vibrant local life. These activities will not only enrich your trip but also leave you with memories to last a lifetime — all in a town once known as one of Southeast Asia’s most bustling trading ports.
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Interesting experiences in Hoi An you should try
Release the lanterns
If daytime is a great time for you to walk along the streets admiring the hundreds of years old houses, night is the time for visitors to immerse themselves in the lives of the people here. And dropping lanterns on Hoai River is one of the most impressive activities. Besides observing, you can mingle to decorate the light party on the river. Buy a beautiful little lamp and float it yourself along the water, then look at them and silently wish for good luck to come to you and your family. Surely you will want to stop the time to “sleep” in this peaceful, idyllic moment forever.
Enjoy Cao Lau
If Saigon has meatloaf, Hanoi has bun cha, Hoi An is famous for Cao Lau. This is a must-try dish when traveling to the old town. A bowl of high quality with full flavor of sour, spicy, salty and sweet essence of raw vegetables, fish sauce, meat, soy sauce mixed with crispy taste, the suddenness of noodles and fat has made many visitors drunk. wreck.
Same-Day Tailoring in Hoi An – Get Your Custom Fashion in Just a Few Hours!
Hoi An is not only famous for its ancient streets and lantern-lit nights but also for its high-quality same-day tailoring services. Whether you’re looking for custom-made clothes, shoes, or bags, Hoi An has hundreds of tailor shops ready to serve both domestic and international travelers.
Thanks to the city’s professional and attentive service, you can get a perfectly tailored outfit in as little as 4 hours. Prices start from just $15 to $100 USD, making it a must-try experience during your visit to Hoi An.
Boat Ride and Lantern Floating in Hoi An
In the evening, take a boat ride on the Hoai River with family or friends to experience the tranquil and serene charm of Hoi An’s ancient town at night. The calm, mirror-like water will guide you through the hidden alleys of Hoi An that you might have missed during the day. While floating on the river and gazing up, you’ll be enchanted by a completely different perspective—the stunning scenery is reminiscent of picturesque European cities on international tours.
Eat the “best in the world” bread
In addition to Cao Lau, Hoi An is also famous for its famous sandwich. Once voted by many overseas magazines as one of the best breads in the world, the Banh Mi in Hoi An is truly impeccable. Like many other types of bread in Vietnam, Hoi An bread is made according to a very unique recipe, unmistakable. The fatty taste of pate, the flesh of pork, the crispiness of cucumber slices, the aroma of raw vegetables, the sweet and salty taste of the sauce, all blend together to create a wonderful loaf of bread.
Try toad coffee in Hoi An
One of the features that attracts visitors is sipping a cup of coffee by the roadside. Any time of the day is suitable for enjoying coffee in Hoi An. Visitors just need to stop at a roadside toad shop, order a cup of iced or hot milk coffee and then slowly enjoy it. While sipping a delicious cup of coffee, watching the flow of people pass by, once in a while, looking at the houses that have been tinged with time, visitors will feel strangely peaceful.
Adventure to Cham Islands
Located about 15 km east of the ancient town, the Cham Islands are a must-visit destination when traveling to Hoi An. With their untouched charm and natural beauty, the Cham Islands have captivated countless visitors. Some exciting experiences you shouldn’t miss here include snorkeling to admire coral reefs, camping with a bonfire, staying with local families, and especially savoring the delicious fresh seafood.
Capture Timeless Moments in Hoi An – Top Photo Spots You Can’t Miss
Hoi An is a photographer’s dream! With its moss-covered yellow walls, charming ancient houses, and lantern-lit alleys, the town creates iconic backdrops for stunning travel photos. Every corner feels like a scene from a movie.
During your visit, don’t miss the chance to take memorable photos at some of Hoi An’s most Instagram-worthy spots, including:
Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau)
An Hoi Bridge
The famous yellow wall on Hoang Van Thu Street
Gieng Alley (Alley of the Ancient Well)
The peaceful Hoai River banks
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual traveler, Hoi An offers the perfect setting for capturing your travel story.
Join Traditional Folk Games
Looking for something truly local and memorable in Hoi An? Don’t miss the chance to join the town’s traditional Vietnamese folk games — a free and joyful experience that connects travelers with the local community.
Every evening, especially around Nguyen Thai Hoc Street and Kazik Park, the streets come alive with interactive games and music, inviting both locals and visitors to take part.
Popular folk games include:
Bai Choi – a traditional Vietnamese game that combines music, poetry, and a bingo-style card game. It’s played with lots of singing, cheering, and fun!
Dap Bung Binh – a blindfolded clay-pot smashing game, full of laughter and friendly challenge.
These games offer more than just fun — they’re a lively window into Vietnam’s cultural heritage, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Conclusion
Hoi An is more than just an ancient town with pretty lanterns — it’s a place where culture, history, cuisine, and local life come together in the most charming and unforgettable ways. Whether you’re walking through golden alleys, joining traditional folk games, getting custom-tailored clothes, or simply watching the lanterns float on the Hoai River, each experience offers a deeper connection to the heart of Vietnam.
So when you visit Hoi An, don’t just pass through — take the time to live the moments, taste the flavors, and feel the soul of the town. Let these unique experiences turn your trip into memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your Hoi An adventure? Start with these must-try activities and let the charm of this ancient town surprise you at every turn!
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