Unmissable Experiences Around Hoi An: A Journey Through Culture, Cuisine, and Charm
Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is a living museum of Southeast Asian heritage, culinary excellence, and timeless beauty. With its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, colorful lanterns, and riverside tranquility, Hoi An offers a blend of old-world charm and vibrant local life. Yet beyond the Old Town lies a world of enriching activities and places that many travelers miss. In this article, we uncover the unmissable experiences around Hoi An that will elevate your trip from memorable to magical.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Vietnam, these experiences will take you deeper into the soul of Hoi An and its surroundings.
1. Wander the Lantern-Lit Hoi An Ancient Town
While technically within Hoi An, exploring the Ancient Town is one of the most unmissable experiences around Hoi An. This remarkably preserved trading port from the 15th century is best explored on foot.
What to do:
Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
Explore Tan Ky Old House and the Assembly Halls.
Shop for tailor-made clothing or handmade lanterns.
Visit during the monthly Lantern Festival for a truly enchanting scene.
2. Take a Cooking Class in Tra Que Vegetable Village
Just a few kilometers from Hoi An’s center is Tra Que, a peaceful organic farming village that supplies herbs and vegetables to many of Hoi An’s restaurants. Participating in a cooking class here is both educational and immersive.
Why it’s unmissable:
Learn traditional Vietnamese recipes from local chefs.
Harvest herbs directly from the garden.
Ride a water buffalo or try your hand at planting like a true farmer.
Many local tour operators offer half-day or full-day experiences that include a market visit, bicycle ride, and hands-on cooking lessons.
3. Cruise the Thu Bon River at Sunset
One of the most serene unmissable experiences around Hoi An is a sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky glows pink and orange, reflecting off the water and casting a golden hue over the lantern-lit houses.
Highlights:
Opt for a private wooden boat or join a group cruise.
Watch local fishermen cast nets in traditional style.
Launch a paper lantern and make a wish—an iconic Hoi An tradition.
4. Row a Basket Boat in the Coconut Forest of Cam Thanh
Looking for something uniquely Vietnamese and fun for all ages? Head to the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, just 5km southeast of Hoi An. Here, locals navigate the waterways in round bamboo basket boats—an experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Why this is one of the unmissable experiences around Hoi An:
Try your hand at rowing the boat—or let the locals spin you in dizzying circles!
Spot crabs among the mangroves.
Learn about the forest’s history as a Viet Cong hideout during wartime.
This eco-adventure is entertaining, educational, and often includes a meal at a riverside shack.
5. Cycle Through the Rice Paddies to An Bang Beach
Hoi An’s rural landscape is as photogenic as its town center. Rent a bicycle and cycle through tranquil rice paddies and countryside paths toward An Bang Beach, one of Vietnam’s best coastal getaways.
What makes this unforgettable:
See water buffalo grazing and farmers at work.
Enjoy fresh seafood at beachside restaurants.
Lounge on golden sand or try surfing and paddle boarding.
It’s a peaceful way to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
6. Explore the Ancient My Son Sanctuary
An hour’s drive from Hoi An lies My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the spiritual center of the ancient Champa Kingdom.
Why it’s one of the unmissable experiences around Hoi An:
Wander through Hindu temple ruins dating back to the 4th century.
Watch traditional Cham dances performed onsite.
Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
A guided tour helps bring the rich history and religious significance of this site to life.
7. Savor Hoi An’s Culinary Delights on a Food Tour
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most beloved culinary destinations, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a guided food tour.
What you’ll eat:
Cao Lau – a Hoi An specialty made with pork, noodles, and local greens.
White Rose Dumplings – delicate and flavorful.
Banh Mi Phuong – made famous by Anthony Bourdain.
Local guides take you beyond tourist traps to hidden gems, night markets, and family-run eateries, ensuring a truly authentic taste of Hoi An.
8. Shop Local at Hoi An Central Market
Dive into the sights, sounds, and smells of the Hoi An Central Market, located along the riverside near the Ancient Town.
Why it’s an unmissable experience:
Fresh produce, spices, and seafood offer a glimpse into local life.
Great spot to buy souvenirs like silk, lanterns, or handicrafts.
Try local snacks or enjoy a fresh juice at one of the many stalls.
This market is not only a shopping stop but a cultural immersion.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Hoi An
From cooking in a village to gliding through a coconut forest, the unmissable experiences around Hoi An go far beyond its well-known Ancient Town. This region is a treasure trove of cultural discoveries, culinary delights, and natural beauty—offering something for every traveler.
Whether you’re here for relaxation, adventure, history, or food, Hoi An promises moments that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
So pack your curiosity, slow down your pace, and get ready to uncover the unmissable experiences around Hoi An—one magical encounter at a time.
