12 Unforgettable Activities in Hoi An Ancient Town: Immerse in Vietnam’s Cultural Gem

Hoi An Ancient Town, now a ward of Da Nang City following the merger of Quang Nam Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved 16th–19th-century architecture and vibrant cultural tapestry. Once a bustling Southeast Asian trading port, Hoi An blends Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences, drawing over 4.5 million visitors annually. Its lantern-lit streets, serene Thu Bon River, and nearby beaches offer a wealth of activities, from cultural workshops to coastal adventures. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Hoi An’s charm, bookable via links throughout this guide. Dive into Hoi An’s cultural heart—reserve your tour now!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, emphasizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Hoi An tours feature low-impact activities like cycling, boat rides, and farm visits, using electric bikes and boats to minimize environmental impact. We support local artisans and align with Da Nang City’s “Heritage for Future” initiative to preserve Hoi An’s legacy. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless adventure. Pair your activities with our curated tours to explore Hoi An responsibly—book via the links on this page!

Hoi An’s activities blend history, culture, and nature, centered in Hoi An Ward and nearby areas like Cam Chau and Cam An. Most attractions operate from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with costs ranging from free to $45 (0–1,125,000 VND), supporting local communities. From the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge to the tranquil An Bang Beach, Hoi An offers diverse experiences for every traveler, enhanced by its walkable, car-free Old Town and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, transforming Hoi An into a ward under Da Nang City’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s UNESCO status and cultural allure remain unchanged. Da Nang City aims to position Hoi An as a “Global Cultural Ward,” boosting sustainable tourism with improved infrastructure.

1. Wander the Lantern-Lit Ancient Town

Stroll through Hoi An Ward’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, with its yellow-hued shophouses, Chinese assembly halls, and Japanese Covered Bridge. Entry requires a ticket covering five attractions.

• Cost: $6/adult (150,000 VND; covers 5 sites).

• Highlights: “A step back in time” (Tripadvisor, 4.8/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit at dusk for lantern glow; avoid peak hours (10:00 AM–2:00 PM). Included in our Hoi An Heritage Tour ($70–$90).

2. Join the Full Moon Lantern Festival

Experience this magical monthly event (14th lunar day) in Hoi An Ward, where lanterns illuminate the Thu Bon River, accompanied by folk performances.

• Cost: Free; boat rides $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A fairy-tale night” (Tripadvisor, 4.9/5 stars).

• Tip: Arrive by 5:30 PM; book boats early. Included in our Hoi An Night Glow Tour ($60–$80).

3. Craft a Traditional Lantern

Learn to make Hoi An’s iconic silk lanterns in a workshop in Hoi An Ward, creating a glowing keepsake with local artisans.

• Cost: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A creative cultural dive” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group; allow 1.5 hours. Included in our Hoi An Artisan Tour ($75–$95).

4. Take a Thu Bon River Boat Ride

Glide along the Thu Bon River in Hoi An Ward, releasing flower lanterns at night or enjoying daytime views of ancient houses.

• Cost: $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND) for 30 minutes.

• Highlights: “A serene escape” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Opt for eco-friendly boats; sunset rides (4:00–5:00 PM) are ideal. Included in our Hoi An River Serenity Tour ($65–$85).

5. Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village

Pedal 3 km from Hoi An Ward to Cam Ha Ward’s organic farm, joining farming activities or a cooking class amid lush fields.

• Cost: Tour $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND); bike rental $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A farm-to-table gem” (Tripadvisor, 4.8/5 stars).

• Tip: Wear sunscreen; book morning tours. Included in our Hoi An Eco-Farm Tour ($70–$90).

6. Taste Local Cuisine at Hoi An Market

Sample Hoi An’s culinary delights like cao lầu and banh mi at this bustling market in Hoi An Ward, a hub of street food and culture.

• Cost: Dishes $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A foodie’s paradise” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit early (6:00 AM) for fresh flavors; try stalls on Tran Phu Street. Included in our Hoi An Foodie Adventure ($60–$80).

7. Explore An Bang Beach

Relax at this pristine beach in Cam An Ward, 4 km from Hoi An Ward, with white sand, clear waters, and activities like paddleboarding.

• Cost: Free; rentals (e.g., paddleboards) $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A coastal haven” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit mid-morning; dine at beachfront seafood shacks. Included in our Hoi An Beach & Culture Tour ($65–$85).

8. Visit My Son Sanctuary

Take a day trip 40 km from Hoi An to this UNESCO-listed Cham temple complex in Duy Xuyen Ward, dating from the 7th–13th centuries.

• Cost: $7/adult (175,000 VND); tours $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A historical marvel” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Book a sunrise tour; wear sturdy shoes. Included in our Hoi An My Son Discovery Tour ($80–$100).

9. Learn Vietnamese Cooking

Join a cooking class in Hoi An Ward to master dishes like mi quang or banh xeo, often including a market tour.

• Cost: $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A delicious experience” (Tripadvisor, 4.8/5 stars).

• Tip: Choose morning classes; bring a reusable water bottle. Included in our Hoi An Culinary Craft Tour ($75–$95).

10. Shop for Tailored Clothing

Visit Hoi An Ward’s renowned tailors for custom-made silk dresses, suits, or ao dai, crafted in 24–48 hours.

• Cost: $20–$100 (500,000–2,500,000 VND) per item.

• Highlights: “World-class tailoring” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: Visit Yaly Couture or Be Be Tailor; bring design ideas. Included in our Hoi An Artisan Tour ($75–$95).

11. Discover Kim Bong Woodworking Village

Explore this craft village in Cam Kim Ward, 2 km from Hoi An Ward, to see artisans carve wooden sculptures and furniture.

• Cost: Free entry; workshops $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A craft lover’s delight” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Cycle across Cam Kim Bridge; buy souvenirs directly from artisans. Included in our Hoi An Village Craft Tour ($70–$90).

12. Try Paragliding for Aerial Views

Soar above Hoi An Ward and its rice paddies with a paragliding tour, offering breathtaking views of the Ancient Town and coastline.

• Cost: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Highlights: “An exhilarating perspective” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: Book with licensed operators; morning flights for calm winds. Included in our Hoi An Sky Adventure Tour ($100–$130).

• Activities: Entry fees $0–$7 (0–175,000 VND); tours $10–$80 (250,000–2,000,000 VND); workshops $10–$45; boat rides $6–$12; bike rentals $2–$4/day; tips $1–$2.

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi (750 km, round-trip): Flight $70–$140; train $35–$60 + $6–$12 taxi; bus $20–$35 + $6–$12 taxi; private car $160–$230.

  • From Ho Chi Minh City (900 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$160; bus $30–$45 + $6–$12 taxi; private car $200–$280.

  • From Da Nang (30 km, round-trip): Taxi/Grab $14–$22; shuttle bus $6–$10; motorbike $6–$10/day + $4 fuel.

  • From Hue (120 km, round-trip): Bus $10–$15; private car $60–$80; motorbike $6–$10/day + $6 fuel.

  • Within Hoi An (1–5 km): Bicycle $2–$4/day; motorbike $6–$10/day; taxi/Grab $3–$6/trip.

• Dining: Street food $1–$5; restaurant meals $3–$15; drinks $0.50–$4.

• Accommodation: Hostels $10–$25/night; homestays $15–$50/night; hotels $70–$200/night; resorts $180–$450/night.

• Total Daily Cost: $25–$150 (budget: $25–$50; mid-range: $50–$100; luxury: $100–$150).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Hoi An Ward (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for eco-transfers.

From Hanoi (750 km, ~1–1.5 hours by flight, 14–16 hours by train/bus)

• Flight: $35–$70 one-way to Da Nang International Airport; 45-minute taxi ($14–$22) to Hoi An.

• Train: $17–$30 one-way to Da Nang Station; 30-minute taxi ($12–$18).

• Bus: $10–$17 one-way to Da Nang; 30-minute taxi ($12–$18).

• Private Car: $80–$115 one-way.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($100–$200) include eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (900 km, ~1.5 hours by flight, 18–20 hours by bus)

• Flight: $40–$80 one-way to Da Nang; 45-minute taxi ($14–$22).

• Bus: $15–$22 one-way to Da Nang; 30-minute taxi ($12–$18).

• Private Car: $100–$140 one-way.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($120–$220) include transfers.

From Da Nang (30 km, ~30–45 minutes)

• Taxi/Grab: $7–$11 one-way.

• Shuttle Bus: $3–$5 one-way; departs hourly (6:00 AM–9:00 PM).

• Motorbike: $6–$10/day + $2 fuel.

• Guided Tour: Our half-day tours ($55–$75) include transfers.

From Hue (120 km, ~2–3 hours)

• Bus: $5–$7 one-way; departs every 2 hours (6:00 AM–7:00 PM).

• Private Car: $30–$40 one-way.

• Motorbike: $6–$10/day + $3 fuel.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($80–$100) include transfers.

Within Hoi An (1–5 km, ~5–15 minutes)

• Bicycle: $2–$4/day; 5–10 minutes to most sites.

• Motorbike: $6–$10/day; 5–15 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$6/trip.

• Walking: Free; 5–15 minutes within Hoi An Ward.

Route Tip: Base yourself in Hoi An Ward; most activities are walkable. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.25–$0.60/motorbike (6,250–15,000 VND).

• Spring (February–April): Mild (18–28°C), ideal for festivals and cycling; book 2–3 weeks ahead.

• Autumn (September–November): Cool (20–30°C), fewer crowds, great for boat rides and markets.

• Dry Season (January–August): Warm (20–35°C), perfect for beach and outdoor activities; mornings avoid heat.

• Rainy Season (September–December): Cooler (20–30°C), occasional showers; budget-friendly with 10–20% discounts. Early visits (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain.

• Tip: February–April for Lantern Festival; May–August for beach and paragliding.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654). Check activity hours (typically 7:00 AM–10:00 PM).

• Dress Code: Wear modest clothing (covered shoulders, knees) for temples; comfortable shoes for cycling; swimwear for beaches.

• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, umbrella for showers, camera (no flash in sacred areas), cash (VND) for small purchases.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $25–$150/day; carry VND; ATMs in Hoi An Ward. Confirm prices to avoid overcharges.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; follow guide instructions; avoid swimming during rough seas. Festivals can be crowded; visit early.

• Sustainability: Respect sacred spaces; minimize plastic use; choose eco-friendly tours. Our tours support local artisans and conservation.

• Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in temples; ask permission before photographing locals; tip guides ($1–$2).

• Navigation: Start at Hoi An Market; allow 1–2 hours per activity, 5–7 hours for multi-site days. Offline maps are essential.

Our sustainable tours immerse you in Hoi An’s cultural and natural wonders:

• Hoi An Foodie Adventure ($60–$80/person): Hoi An Market, cao lầu tasting, banh mi stalls. Includes transfers from Da Nang/Hoi An.

• Hoi An Heritage Tour ($70–$90/person): Japanese Covered Bridge, Ancient Town, Quan Cong Temple. Includes transfers and lunch.

• Hoi An Artisan Tour ($75–$95/person): Lantern-making, tailoring at Yaly Couture, Kim Bong Village. Includes transfers.

• Hoi An River Serenity Tour ($65–$85/person): Thu Bon River boat ride, Full Moon Lantern Festival. Includes transfers.

• Hoi An Eco-Farm Tour ($70–$90/person): Tra Que Village, cycling, cooking class. Includes transfers and meals.

• Hoi An My Son Discovery Tour ($80–$100/person): My Son Sanctuary, Cham history, local lunch. Includes transfers.

• Hoi An Sky Adventure Tour ($100–$130/person): Paragliding, rice paddy views, Old Town exploration. Includes transfers.

• Hoi An Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): All activities, homestays ($15–$50/night), beach visits. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Hoi An Ancient Town, a cultural jewel of Da Nang City, offers a vibrant array of activities that capture its UNESCO-listed heritage and natural beauty. From lantern-lit river rides to paragliding over rice paddies, these 12 experiences showcase Hoi An’s unique blend of history, craft, and cuisine. By choosing Legend Travel Group’s Hoi An Tours, you support local communities and preservation efforts while enjoying expertly guided adventures. Don’t miss this chance to explore Hoi An’s timeless allure—browse our featured tours and book your cultural journey today!
Ready to discover Hoi An’s cultural treasures? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and experience Vietnam’s heritage like never before!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.