Best Time to Visit Hoi An Ancient Town: Weather, Festivals, Costs, and Sustainable Travel

Hoi An Ancient Town, now Minh An Ward in Da Nang City following the merger of Quang Nam Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its 15th–19th-century trading port legacy, attracting over 4.5 million of Da Nang’s 8 million annual visitors. With its lantern-lit streets, historic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge, and culinary treasures such as cao lầu, Hoi An offers a vibrant cultural experience. Timing your visit based on weather, festivals, and sustainable tourism options ensures a tailored trip, whether you seek cultural immersion, outdoor exploration, or budget-friendly deals. Da Nang City’s eco-conscious initiatives, like electric buses and local sourcing, enhance sustainable travel. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to maximize your Hoi An experience, bookable via links throughout this guide. Plan your journey—reserve your tour now!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Hoi An tours feature low-impact transport like bicycles, electric shuttles, and eco-friendly taxis, guided by local experts who share insights into the town’s heritage and festivals. We support Minh An’s artisans and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve cultural sites. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless adventure. Explore Hoi An sustainably with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, transforming Hoi An into Minh An Ward and integrating former districts like Tam Ky and Dai Loc as Tam Ky and Hoa Vang Wards. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s UNESCO status remains intact. Da Nang City bolsters sustainable tourism with cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring year-round access to Hoi An’s historic core.

Hoi An Ancient Town, located in Da Nang City’s Minh An Ward, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: a dry season (February–August) and a rainy season (September–January). The annual average temperature is 25.6°C (78.1°F), with highs reaching 35°C (95°F) in summer and lows dropping to 18°C (64.4°F) in winter. Coastal breezes from the South China Sea moderate heat, while the Truong Son Mountains influence rainfall, peaking in October–November (150–500 mm/month). Understanding these seasons helps align your visit with your preferences, from beach outings to cultural exploration.

Dry Season (February–August)

• Weather: Warm, sunny, and low humidity, with temperatures from 24°C to 35°C (75.2°F–95°F). June–August are the hottest, peaking at 38°C (100.4°F). Rainfall is minimal, with March–April offering the driest, most comfortable conditions.

• Pros: Ideal for outdoor activities like cycling to Tra Que Village, beach visits to An Bang, and exploring Hoi An’s Old Town. Clear skies enhance photography at landmarks like Phuc Kien Assembly Hall.

• Cons: June–August is peak season, with higher prices and crowds, especially domestic tourists. Book accommodations early, as hotels like La Siesta Hoi An fill quickly.

• Best Months: February–April for mild weather (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F) and fewer crowds; perfect for cultural tours and lantern-making workshops.

Rainy Season (September–January)

• Weather: Cooler (18–30°C or 64.4–86°F), with high humidity and frequent rainfall, peaking in October–November (150–500 mm/month). Typhoons may occur in September–October. December–January sees lighter showers and cooler temperatures (18–23°C or 64.4–73.4°F).

• Pros: Lush greenery enhances rural areas like Kim Bong Carpentry Village; fewer tourists mean 10–20% discounts on hotels and tours. Indoor activities like cooking classes or visiting the Precious Heritage Museum thrive.

• Cons: Heavy rain and flooding in November can disrupt outdoor plans, especially in Hoi An’s low-lying Old Town. Beach activities are limited, and roads may be slippery.

• Best Months: December–January for cooler, drier conditions, ideal for cultural immersion and festive events like Tet.

Transitional Months (January, September)

• Weather: Unpredictable, with mixed sunny and rainy days. January is cool and dry (20–25°C or 68–77°F); September is warm and humid (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F) with increasing showers.

• Pros: Fewer crowds, stable prices, and opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activities. January is great for surfing at Da Nang’s beaches, while September offers budget deals.

• Cons: Weather variability requires flexibility; September risks early typhoons. Check forecasts via AccuWeather.

For Cultural and Sightseeing Adventures

• When: December–March (18–27°C or 64.4–80.6°F, cool and dry).

• Why: Pleasant weather suits walking tours in Hoi An’s Old Town, visits to Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and exploration of the Japanese Covered Bridge. Fewer crowds in December–January enhance cultural immersion.

• Activities: Stroll historic streets, join lantern-making workshops ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND), or visit the Precious Heritage Museum. Hoi An Old Town ticket $6 (120,000 VND, covers 5 attractions).

• Costs: Guided tours $15–$40 (375,000–1,000,000 VND); cooking classes $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND).

• Tip: Bring a light jacket for evening chills; check Tet dates for vibrant cultural events. Included in our Hoi An Heritage Tour ($55–$75).

For Beach and Outdoor Activities

• When: March–May (24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F, minimal rain).

• Why: Warm, sunny weather is perfect for An Bang and Cua Dai beaches, water sports, and cycling through rice paddies. Calm seas are ideal for snorkeling at Cham Islands.

• Activities: Sunbathing, kitesurfing ($20–$30/hour or 500,000–750,000 VND), or visiting Tra Que Vegetable Village. Cham Islands ferry $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip.

• Costs: Beach access free; sunbed rentals $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); water sports $10–$30/hour.

• Tip: Book Cham Islands tours early; pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life. Included in our Da Nang Coastal Adventure ($60–$80).

For Festivals and Events

• When: February–August, with key events like Tet (January–February), Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival (14th lunar day monthly), and Mid-Autumn Festival (August–September, lunar).

• Why: Festivals showcase Hoi An’s vibrant culture, from lantern-lit rivers to mooncake feasts, drawing global visitors.

• Key Festivals:

  • Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year, January–February): Markets, lion dances, temple visits; expect crowds and closures (hotels $100–$300/night).

  • Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival: Monthly, with river lanterns, performances, and street food; boat rides $6–$8/boat (150,000–200,000 VND). No extra ticket needed beyond Old Town pass ($6).

  • Mid-Autumn Festival (August–September, lunar): Lion dances, lantern parades, mooncakes; vibrant but early rains possible.

• Tip: Check lunar calendar dates; book festival tours early for boat access. Included in our Hoi An Night Glow Tour ($55–$75).

For Budget Travelers

• When: September–January (18–30°C or 64.4–86°F, rainy season).

• Why: Lower hotel rates (hostels $10–$25/night, homestays $15–$50/night), discounted tours (10–20% off), and fewer tourists offer a serene experience.

• Activities: Indoor attractions like Thanh Cao Lầu for cao lầu ($1.50–$2.50 or 37,500–62,500 VND), cooking classes, or visiting Hoi An Market.

• Costs: Budget meals $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND); public bus (Da Nang–Hoi An) $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• Tip: Pack rain gear and waterproof shoes for November; focus on December–January for drier conditions.

Hoi An’s tourism embraces sustainability, aligning with Da Nang City’s eco-conscious goals:

• Eco-Friendly Transport: Electric buses (DanaBus), bike-sharing (TNGO), and Xanh SM’s electric taxis reduce emissions by 30% vs. gas vehicles. Bike rentals ($1–$2/day) are popular in Minh An Ward.

• Local Sourcing: Eateries like Morning Glory source 80% of ingredients from Tra Que Village, supporting 200+ farmers and reducing transport emissions.

• Plastic Reduction: 70% of vendors use biodegradable packaging, per Vietnam’s 2022 anti-plastic campaign. Recycling bins are at 80% of tourist sites.

• Cultural Preservation: The Full Moon Lantern Festival uses eco-friendly lanterns; tourism revenue funds restoration via the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management.

• Flood Mitigation: A VND500 billion drainage project (2023) protects Old Town from November floods, ensuring year-round access.

Legend Travel Group’s tours integrate these practices, partnering with eco-vendors and using low-impact transport, ensuring your visit supports Hoi An’s heritage and community.

• Accommodation:

  • Hostels: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Homestays: $15–$50/night (375,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Hotels: $70–$200/night (1,750,000–5,000,000 VND).

  • Resorts (e.g., Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An): $180–$450/night (4,500,000–11,250,000 VND).

• Dining: Street food (e.g., Bánh Mì Phượng) $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND); restaurant meals $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND); drinks $0.25–$4 (6,250–100,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Hoi An Old Town ticket: $6 (120,000 VND, 5 attractions).

  • Lantern-Making Workshops: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

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

  • Guided Tours: $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND); private tours $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Boat Rides: $6–$8/boat (150,000–200,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • Hanoi to Da Nang (750 km, round-trip): Flight $70–$140; train $35–$60 + $6–$12 taxi; bus $20–$35 + $6–$12 taxi.

  • HCMC to Da Nang (900 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$160; train $35–$60 + $6–$12 taxi; bus $30–$45 + $6–$12 taxi.

  • Da Nang to Hoi An (28 km): Taxi/Grab $12–$15; bus #1 $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND); bike $1–$2/day.

• Total Daily Cost: $20–$120 (budget: $20–$50; mid-range: $50–$80; luxury: $80–$120).

• Tip: Carry VND for small vendors; ATMs in Minh An Ward. Rainy season offers 10–20% discounts.

• Plan Ahead: Book accommodations and tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654), especially for March–May or festivals. Check lunar calendars for Full Moon Lantern Festival or Tet dates.

• Weather Prep:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen, hats, light clothing; stay hydrated in summer heat (June–August).

  • Rainy Season: Bring rain gear, waterproof shoes; focus on indoor activities like cooking classes or museums. Check flood forecasts via AccuWeather for November.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$120/day; carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes for street food. Use Grab or DanaBus apps for transparent transport pricing.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables during festivals; avoid slippery Old Town paths in November. Check storm warnings via Vietnam News for September–October.

• Sustainability: Use bikes ($1–$2/day) or electric shuttles; support eco-vendors like Roots Plant-Based Café; minimize plastic with reusable bottles.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for temples (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors/guides ($1–$2).

• Navigation: Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) or DanaBus app. Old Town is pedestrianized (8:30 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–9:30 PM); park motorbikes outside zones.

Our sustainable tours offer immersive experiences tailored to Hoi An’s best seasons:

• Hoi An Heritage Walking Tour ($55–$75/person): Old Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Full Moon Lantern Festival. Includes Old Town ticket ($6), eco-transfers, and lunch.

• Hoi An Foodie Tour ($60–$80/person): Bánh Mì Phượng, Thanh Cao Lầu, Morning Glory, Tra Que Village. Includes eco-transfers and tastings.

• Hoi An Craft & Culture Tour ($75–$95/person): Lantern-making, Kim Bong carpentry, Thanh Ha pottery, cooking class. Includes bike rentals, boat transfers, and meals.

• Hoi An Night Glow Tour ($55–$75/person): Lantern festival, Thu Bon River boat ride, night market. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Central Vietnam Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Hoi An, Da Nang, My Son, homestays ($15–$50/night), Cham Islands. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees ($6), 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 UNESCO gem in Da Nang City’s Minh An Ward, captivates with its historic charm, vibrant festivals, and culinary delights. From the sunny days of February–April to the serene rainy season of September–January, each period offers unique experiences, from beach outings to lantern-lit festivals. With sustainable initiatives like eco-transfers and local sourcing, Hoi An Ancient Town ensures a responsible travel experience. Legend Travel Group’s Hoi An Tours guide you through this enchanting destination, ensuring a sustainable Hoi An Travel experience that supports cultural preservation and local communities. Don’t miss this enchanting destination—browse our featured tours and book your Hoi An Ancient Town adventure today!
Ready to explore Hoi An Ancient Town’s timeless beauty? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s cultural heart!

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

Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.