Hoi An Travel with a "Slow-Living" Style: Experiences must do in Hoi An without worrying about crowds

Instead of short trips with packed schedules, must do in Hoi An activities encourage visitors to savor each moment, slow down, and connect more deeply with the local culture, people, and landscapes through experiences in this peaceful town.

Hoi An – The ideal destination to enjoy a “slow-living” trip

1. Introduction to the "slow-living" travel trend

In travel, the “slow-living” trend is about deeply and fully exploring destinations, compared to traditional travel. This trend encourages people to slow down, focus on quality over quantity, and enjoy every moment in the present. By embracing a slower pace of life, “slow-living” travel helps us recharge and create more memorable and meaningful experiences.

2. Hoi An - the perfect destination must do in Hoi An for "slow-living" travel this summer

The peaceful scenery of Hoi An in the early morning

Hoi An, famous for its ancient beauty, also offers quiet spaces and a slow-paced lifestyle that brings peace and relaxation to visitors. It is the perfect place to experience a “slow-living” vacation. Every moment here helps you step away from the hustle and stress of daily life, finding tranquility for yourself. You can stroll along the old streets, join craft workshops, or simply relax by the Thu Bon River. You will have the chance to enjoy a unique experience in Hoi An, from water puppet shows to traditional opera performances, all of which reflect the rich cultural heritage of this area.

>>>See more: Discover Hoi An in the Rainy Season: A Peaceful and Emotional Journey

2.1. Ancient and peaceful spaces

With a unique beauty that is hard to find elsewhere, the ancient houses with moss-covered roofs and yellow walls have aged gracefully over time. From souvenir shops, and small cafés, to old temples, Hoi An appears as a poetic painting where time seems to slow down so that everyone can fully feel the peace and nostalgia. Every street corner and alley in Hoi An evokes both familiarity and novelty, making you fall in love and linger on.

>>>See more: Step into the Past: Exploring Hoi An's Timeless Charm

2.2. Slow-paced lifestyle

Life in Hoi An is not noisy or chaotic but slow and simple, offering a sense of serenity and peace. In the morning, you can leisurely stroll on brick-paved streets, sip tea, and chat. As the sun sets, the old town is bathed in the glow of lanterns, the night markets buzz with vibrant colors, and locals sell local delicacies, handicrafts, and souvenirs, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere.

The slow and peaceful pace of life in Hoi An's ancient town

2.3. Many activities must do in Hoi An

Hoi An not only captivates tourists with its simple beauty but also stands out with its diverse and exciting activities. Biking around the old town allows you to experience the slow pace and peaceful beauty of this place. Take part in lantern-making classes, where you can create your own traditional-style lanterns. Discover the unique local cuisine of Hoi An through cooking classes. Tea ceremonies offer a moment of tranquility, where you can savor the delicate taste of tea and learn about the refined art of tea drinking.

Don’t miss visiting the traditional craft villages, like Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where you can admire and join in the process of making unique pottery products. In Tra Que Vegetable Village, you will learn about various fragrant herbs and participate in gardening with local farmers.

A must-visit is the Hoi An Memory Island, where you can experience the distinctive cultural and artistic performances. With a special summer combo for only 1,500,000 VND per person (for groups of 2 or more), you can enjoy a 2-day, 1-night stay at Hoi An Memories Resort & Spa. Or opt for the "buy 2 get 1" combo, which includes tickets to the show must do in Hoi An, Ký Ức Hội An (Hoi An Memories Show), and a culinary experience, along with a wish lantern to participate in the "Light to Sky" festival. From artistic performances to fun-filled activities, Hoi An is truly a destination for those who wish to explore and enjoy traditional cultural values.

>>>See more: Unmissable Experiences in Hoi An You Have to Try

Enjoying Hoi An's signature Cao lau dish is must do in Hoi An

3. Suggested itinerary for a "slow-living" Hoi An trip

To fully enjoy the unique culture, art, and tranquility of Hoi An, here’s a suggested itinerary for an unforgettable “slow-living” experience:

3.1. Day 1 Itinerary

Traditional lantern-making classes in Hoi An

• Morning: Start your day by biking around the ancient town of Hoi An and taking in the fresh air. Visit the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, where you can admire its unique architecture and learn about its history. Next, explore the Fujian Assembly Hall, built by the Chinese community, showcasing intricate architecture and a solemn atmosphere. End your morning by visiting Tan Ky Ancient House, one of the most beautiful and famous old houses in Hoi An, where you’ll discover traditional architecture and hear fascinating historical stories.
• Afternoon: Join a lantern-making class, where you can craft your own lanterns to keep as a souvenir. Unwind in a tranquil tea house and enjoy the pure aroma of tea.
• Evening: Take your time to explore Hoi An’s night markets, release lanterns on the Hoai River, and sample local street food.

Colorful lanterns floating on the Hoai River

3.2. Day 2 Itinerary

• Morning: Check-in at Hoi An Memory Island, where you can engage in cultural activities and must-see performances in Hoi An.
• Afternoon: Indulge in delightful local cuisine at one of the island’s restaurants, surrounded by stunning scenery.
• Evening: Participate in impressive mini-shows and experience the "Light to Sky" festival, a breathtaking event. End your day with the famous Memories of Hoi An show – recognized as one of the most beautiful performances in the world. The large-scale and awe-inspiring show highlights the cultural and historical stories of this land.

>> See more: Why must you watch "Hoi An Memories" - a scenography Vietnam show?

Grand artistic performances showcasing local culture

4. Small tips for enjoying a “slow-living” trip in Hoi An

To fully embrace your "slow-living" journey in Hoi An, take the time to savor simple and slow-paced moments. Rather than packing many activities into one day, choose a few and explore them in depth.

4.1. Choose the right time

Selecting the right time for your slow-living journey in Hoi An is crucial for a relaxed and memorable experience. Autumn, from August to November, is the best season with pleasant, cool weather, perfect for walking around the town. From December to February, the colder weather makes sipping tea or coffee feel warm and cozy. Each season offers its own charm, so pick your favorite time to enjoy the best of what Hoi An has to offer.

4.2. Rent a bicycle

Renting a bicycle is one of the best ways to explore Hoi An's old town. You can easily find rental spots around the main streets, choose a reliable provider, and make sure the bike is in good condition before starting your journey.

Cycling around the old town and enjoying the fresh air

4.3. Choose quiet accommodations surrounded by nature

Hoi An Memories Resort & Spa is the perfect choice for a “slow-living” vacation, with its unique location on Hen Islet in the middle of the Hoai River. The resort not only offers top-notch services but also allows you to experience a relaxing stay surrounded by lush greenery and refined architectural design. It seamlessly blends traditional and modern styles, creating an elegant yet cozy and welcoming space. The rooms are designed with views overlooking the river or garden, providing a peaceful and serene ambiance. Additionally, the resort offers various services such as a spa, outdoor swimming pool, restaurant featuring local specialties, and a range of entertainment activities. Especially, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in cultural art performances at the Hoi An Memories Land complex, creating unforgettable memories for your stay.

>> See more: Travel and chill in Hoi An with your friends in under 2 million VND resorts (about 80.84 USD)

Hoi An Memories Resort & Spa is located in the heart of a leading cultural tourism complex.

4.4. Engage in cultural activities in Hoi An

When visiting this land rich in traditional cultural artistry, travelers can explore historical sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and the Sa Huynh Culture Museum to gain deeper insights into the rich history and culture of Hoi An. You can also wander around traditional craft villages like Thanh Ha Pottery Village and Kim Bong Carpentry Village to admire the skilled artisans at work and learn about the process of creating intricate handmade products. “Slow-living” travel encourages you to immerse yourself in the everyday life of the local people. Therefore, take time to explore traditional markets such as Hoi An Market, where you can enjoy local specialties like cao lau, Quang noodles, and Phuong’s banh mi, while interacting with vendors to learn more about the local life and culture. In the evening, traditional games such as bai choi singing, lion dancing, and lantern releasing on the Hoai River are held. These activities not only offer exciting experiences but also help you better understand the cultural beauty and daily life of Hoi An's residents.

>> See more: 20+ Hoi An food specialties under $2 that tourists must try

Artisans performing traditional Bai choi with distinctive melodies

5. Conclusion

By taking the time to slow down and experience a "slow-living" journey, you’ll discover the hidden beauty of Hoi An, where every street, and every meal, holds stories waiting to be uncovered. The traditional must-see performances in Hoi An and places that reflect cultural values will give you a deeper understanding of the local way of life. The serenity of the old town, the poetic beauty of its narrow alleys, and the warm hospitality of the locals, along with the must do in Hoi An experiences, will leave an unforgettable mark on your heart.