What to Do in Hoi An: 14 Must-Try Activities for Every Traveler

Hoi An, Vietnam, has been recognized as one of the top seven global travel destinations for 2025 by Travel Off Path, an esteemed American travel platform. This accolade underscores the town’s unique blend of cultural heritage, historical architecture, and vibrant street life. The Old Town of Hoi An, with its well-preserved buildings and lantern-lit evenings, offers a glimpse into a rich past influenced by various cultures, including remnants from the French colonial era. For travelers, especially those considering an internship or extended stay, Hoi An presents a plethora of activities that encapsulate its charm and diversity.

Top 14 Essential Activities in Hoi An

1. Wander Through the Ancient Town

Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a compact area less than 2 km², characterized by its narrow lanes, historic houses, and vibrant lanterns. Exploring on foot or by bicycle allows visitors to immerse themselves in the town’s serene ambiance, especially during the evening when lanterns illuminate the streets. A sunset view over the Hoai River offers a picturesque experience.

2. Explore Historic Residences

The town boasts several ancient houses that reflect its rich history:

Tan Ky House: Dating back to 1741, this private residence showcases a blend of architectural styles and houses numerous antiques.
Phung Hung, Quan Thang, and Duc An Houses: Each offers unique insights into the lives of Hoi An’s historical merchant families.

3. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge

Constructed in the 17th century by Japanese merchants, this iconic bridge symbolizes Hoi An’s multicultural heritage, combining Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural elements. Its image is featured on the Vietnamese 20,000 VND note, highlighting its national significance.

4. Engage in Traditional Mask-Making

At “The Timing Masks Hoi An” (66 Bach Dang Street), visitors can participate in workshops to create traditional Vietnamese masks, learning about the art form’s significance in classical opera and cultural expressions.

5. Discover Local Museums

Hoi An’s museums, often housed in historic buildings, offer insights into the town’s evolution:

Hoi An Museum (10B Tran Hung Dao Street)
Sa Huynh Culture Museum (149 Tran Phu Street)
Museum of Trade Ceramics (80 Tran Phu Street)
Museum of Folklore (33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street)
Memorial House of Cao Hong Lanh (129 Tran Phu Street)

6. Visit Traditional Craft Villages

A short bicycle ride from the town center leads to villages preserving traditional crafts:

Thanh Ha: Renowned for its ceramic products.
Tra Que: Famous for organic herbs and vegetables.
Cam Chau: Known for lantern-making.

These villages offer hands-on experiences, from farming to crafting, allowing visitors to engage with local traditions.

7. Excursion to the Cham Islands

Located 20 km off Hoi An’s coast, the Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) are a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, snorkeling, and learn about traditional hammock-making.

8. Relax on An Bang and Cua Dai Beaches

Just a short distance from the town, these beaches offer serene environments for relaxation and water activities. From February to September, the weather is ideal for beach outings, complemented by nearby eateries serving both local and international cuisines.

9. Savor Hoi An’s Culinary Delights

Hoi An’s diverse culinary scene reflects its historical influences:

Cao Lau: A noodle dish unique to Hoi An, combining local ingredients.
Xi Ma: A black sesame dessert believed to offer health benefits.
Quang Noodles and Chicken Rice: Regional specialties worth trying.
MOT Herbal Tea: A refreshing drink made with a blend of herbs, served with a decorative touch.

10. Participate in Cooking Classes

Cooking classes in Hoi An provide an immersive experience into Vietnamese cuisine. Participants often start with market visits to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking sessions guided by local chefs, culminating in a shared meal.

11. Attend the Hoi An Memories Show

This grand open-air performance, featuring over 500 actors, narrates Hoi An’s history through music and dance. Staged on a vast 25,000 square meter area, the show has gained international acclaim since its debut in 2019.

12. Explore the Bay Mau Coconut Forest

A short drive from the town center, this area offers unique experiences:

Basket Boat Rides: Navigate through the water coconut forest in traditional round boats.
Coconut Leaf Crafting: Learn to make souvenirs using coconut leaves, guided by local artisans.

13. Visit An Bang’s “City of Tombs”

An Bang village is known for its elaborate mausoleums, reflecting a fusion of religious influences, including Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Islam. The intricate designs and use of materials like broken ceramics make it a unique site.

14. Experience Custom Tailoring

Hoi An is famed for its tailoring services. Visitors can select fabrics and have garments custom-made within a short timeframe, offering a personalized fashion experience at reasonable prices.

These activities encapsulate the essence of Hoi An, offering a blend of cultural, historical, and recreational experiences. Whether you’re exploring ancient streets, engaging in traditional crafts, or savoring local delicacies, Hoi An promises a memorable journey.