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Useful Hoi An travel guide with 1001 frequently asked questions

08 October 2024 Hoi An Tourism Admin

Hoi An, an ancient and charming city, is always considered an ideal destination for those who love tranquility and the unique cultural beauty of Vietnam. With its distinctive architecture, diverse culture, and rich cuisine, Hoi An captivates millions of visitors each year.

Are you searching for a helpful Hoi An travel guide to plan your trip? Let Hoi An Memories Land answer the most common questions about traveling to Hoi An so you can confidently explore and fully enjoy the beauty of this ancient city.

What to know before visiting Hoi An

Before setting off, there are a few Hoi An travel tips you should prepare for to ensure a smooth and memorable trip.

Is Hoi An still worth visiting?

Hoi An is certainly an ideal destination for those who love tranquility and ancient beauty. The ancient town of Hoi An, with its unique architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and diverse culture, offers an unforgettable experience of culture, cuisine, and history.

Should you travel to Hoi An on your own or with a tour?

Whether to go independently or with a tour depends on your travel style. If you enjoy the freedom to explore, experience local life, and already have some travel experience, going independently can be an exciting choice. On the other hand, if you want to optimize your time and avoid worrying about planning, a guided tour will be a better option.

How much does an independent trip to Hoi An cost?

The cost of an independent trip to Hoi An ranges from 1 to 2 million VND per person for a 2-day, 1-night trip (about 40 - 80 USD), and from 3 to 5 million VND per person for a 3-day, 2-night trip (about 120 - 200 USD). This includes transportation, meals, sightseeing, and accommodation in mid-range hotels or homestays. If you opt for premium services, costs may increase.

Note: These prices are approximate and may vary based on the current exchange rate and specific pricing.

Costs vary depending on the length of your stay in Hoi An

How many days should I stay in Hoi An?

Based on a practical Hoi An travel guide, 2 to 3 days is the ideal time to explore this heritage land. You can leisurely explore the ancient town, visit traditional craft villages, enjoy local cuisine, and relax at An Bang Beach.

What is the best time to visit Hoi An?

From February to April is the ideal time to visit Hoi An, as the weather is cool, with little rain, and perfect for outdoor activities. May to August is also attractive for those who love warm sunshine, though temperatures may be higher.

When is the peak tourist season in Hoi An?

The peak season in Hoi An usually falls in the summer (May to August) and during major holidays like National Day or Lunar New Year. At these times, there are large crowds of tourists, and service prices tend to rise.

Experience Hoi An travel guide during peak season to minimize extra costs

How to get to Hoi An?

You can fly to Da Nang Airport, then take a taxi or bus for about 30 minutes to Hoi An. Alternatively, buses and trains are also good options when traveling to Da Nang before transferring to Hoi An.

What is the best way to get around Hoi An?

In the ancient town, bicycles are a great option since the streets are small and peaceful. You can also rent motorbikes to explore further or take a cyclo to enjoy the scenic views.

Revealing how to enjoy Hoi An cuisine

What to eat when in Hoi An?

Hoi An is famous for its specialties such as cao lau, mi Quang, white rose dumplings, and Banh Mi Phuong. These are dishes you should not miss when you visit, each with its own distinctive flavor representing this region.

Learn from practical Hoi An travel guide to choose the right place to enjoy local specialties

What is the price of these specialties?

Prices are quite reasonable, ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 VND per dish (about $1.04 to $2.08), depending on the restaurant and the type of food. Banh Mi Phuong typically costs from 20,000 to 30,000 VND (about $0.83 to $1.25), while dishes like cao lau and mi Quang range from 30,000 to 50,000 VND (about $1.25 to $2.08).

Note: These prices are approximate and may vary based on the current exchange rate and specific restaurant pricing.

What is special about Hoi An street food?

Hoi An street food is appealing with rustic, affordable dishes packed with flavor. You can try “Bánh đập hến xào” (crispy rice crackers with stir-fried baby clams), “Chè bắp” (sweet corn pudding), or street vendors selling grilled rice paper and “Bánh bèo” (steamed rice cakes).

What are some beautiful cafes in Hoi An?

Some famous cafes in Hoi An with beautiful spaces and an ancient style include Faifo Coffee (with a panoramic view of the ancient town), The Deck House (overlooking An Bang Beach), and Cocobox (with a green, nature-friendly atmosphere).

Relax in a nostalgic atmosphere at Hoi An’s cafes

Shopping tips in Hoi An

After you’re all set for your trip, take some time to explore more Hoi An travel guides about souvenirs and fine handicrafts. This will undoubtedly be an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

What souvenirs should you buy?

Popular souvenirs in Hoi An include lanterns, brocade products, Thanh Ha ceramics, and specialties such as “Gai” leaf cakes and green tea. All these items embody the tradition and culture of the region.

What are the famous markets in Hoi An?

Hoi An Market and Nguyen Hoang Night Market are two standout shopping spots. Hoi An Market is famous for fresh food and local goods, while Nguyen Hoang Night Market is a paradise for shopping for handicrafts and enjoying street food.

Hoi An night markets are the perfect spots for tourists to enjoy street food

About entertainment and exploration

Aside from shopping, Hoi An offers numerous exciting activities and fascinating destinations awaiting your discovery. Each place boasts its own unique beauty and unforgettable experiences. Let’s explore some of the exciting things in your journey through Hoi An.

What should you do and where should you go when visiting Hoi An?

You can visit various places such as Hoi An Ancient Town, the Japanese Covered Bridge, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Hoi An Memories Land, and An Bang Beach. These are all renowned tourist attractions that carry the deep cultural imprints of Hoi An.

In practical Hoi An travel guide guide, Hoi An Memories Land is a must-visit destination

What is Hoi An's Nightlife like?

At night, Hoi An Ancient Town becomes dazzling with its vibrant lanterns. You can take a walk around the ancient streets, explore the night market, release floating lanterns on the Hoai River, or relax with a cup of coffee by the riverside.

See more: 40+ Must-Visit Destinations Around Hoi An

Unique things to do in Hoi An?

You can join cooking classes, make handmade lanterns, or have clothes tailored within a day. These experiences allow you to gain deeper insights into the unique culture of Hoi An.

Free activities in Hoi An?

Some free and enjoyable activities in Hoi An include walking around the ancient town, taking photos with the old houses, participating in the lantern festival on full moon nights, and admiring the architecture of the Japanese Covered Bridge.

What should you do in Hoi An in one day?

According to practical Hoi An travel guide tips from tourists who have visited the area, in one day, you can explore the ancient town, enjoy lunch at local restaurants, release lanterns in the evening, and end your day peacefully by the Hoai River.

Releasing floating lanterns on the Hoai River is an unforgettable experience in Hoi An

Festivals in Hoi An?

The lantern festival, held every full moon, is a special event that draws many visitors. Additionally, Hoi An hosts various other festivals such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Lantern Festival, and the Cau Ngu (Fishing) Festival.

Special shows in Hoi An?

The Hoi An Memories show is a grand outdoor performance that vividly recreates the history and culture of Hoi An through elaborate scenes. The harmonious blend of sound, light, and hundreds of performers in traditional costumes brings to life the journey of Hoi An’s development through different eras. The show not only offers a visually stunning experience but also evokes deep emotions, taking the audience on a journey back in time to explore the cultural values and essence of this ancient land.

"Hoi An Memories" - A show that reenacts 400 years of the heritage town’s history

Where to Check-In when visiting Hoi An?

Popular check-in spots include the ancient town with its old houses, the Japanese Covered Bridge, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, and An Bang Beach. Cafes such as Faifo Coffee are also ideal check-in locations.

See more: Top 7 Instagram-Worthy Spots in Hoi An

Accommodation Tips in Hoi An

After a long day of fun and exploration, finding a cozy place to stay is crucial. Below are some suggestions to help you choose the perfect accommodation for your holiday.

When should you book hotels in Hoi An?

During peak season, it's best to book your room 1-2 months in advance to secure a good spot at a reasonable price. In the low season, you can book 1-2 weeks in advance.

Booking your hotel 1-2 months ahead during peak season is a practical Hoi An travel guide tip

Should you choose a Resort, Homestay, or Hotel in Hoi An?

If you want a luxurious experience, resorts are the best option. Homestays are ideal for those who love cultural exchange and close interaction, while hotels offer comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.

Where to stay in Hoi An? Top Beautiful hotels in Hoi An

Some famous hotels with great locations and impressive designs include La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, Anantara Hoi An Resort, and Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel.

Luxury resorts with pools near Hoi An Ancient Town?

One luxurious resort near the ancient town with a stunning pool that you can’t miss is Hoi An Memories Resort & Spa. Located just minutes from the center, this upscale resort offers professional services and a luxurious outdoor pool, providing the perfect relaxation space for travelers. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore Hoi An’s famous attractions.