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Hoi An or Phu Quoc

Hoi An or Phu Quoc: A complete guide to help you decide

16/11/2025 513 views

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, one question might be on your mind: Should you go to Hoi An or Phu Quoc? Both destinations offer unique experiences that captivate travelers from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to rich cultural heritage or tropical island vibes, we will help you decide which destination best suits your travel style.

1. Hoi An or Phu Quoc: Factors to consider

1.1. Location & accessibility

When considering Hoi An or Phu Quoc, it’s important to look at their geography, especially if you’re planning your Vietnam travel. Hoi An is located in Da Nang (formerly Quang Nam) in Central Vietnam. Phu Quoc, on the other hand, is part of Kien Giang in Southern Vietnam.

One major factor in choosing Hoi An or Phu Quoc is how easy it is to get there. Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport or train station, but it’s conveniently located just 30 km away from Da Nang International Airport. As a result, you can easily travel from Da Nang to Hoi An by taxi or bus. 

Regarding how to get to Phu Quoc, this island is more self-contained, featuring its own airport with both domestic and international flights. Besides air travel, Phu Quoc is also accessible by sea. Travelers can take a Ha Tien to Phu Quoc ferry or Rach Gia to Phu Quoc ferry.

Phu Quoc or Hoi An

Choosing Phu Quoc or Hoi An can be difficult (Source: Collected)

1.2. Weather & best time to visit

Apart from the location, weather is a key factor in determining whether to travel to Hoi An or Phu Quoc.

Hoi An weather experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons. The rainy season from October to December brings heavy rainfall, occasional flooding, and high humidity. The dry season lasts from February to August with minimal rain and clear skies, making it an ideal time to visit. 

Phu Quoc weather has a tropical climate with two seasons. The dry season from November to April features warm temperatures, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine, making it the best time to visit Phu Quoc. The rainy season from May to October brings heavy rain and high humidity, although the showers are usually short and mostly occur in the afternoon.

1.3. People & lifestyle

No matter if it’s Hoi An or Phu Quoc, both destinations highlight the warmth and charm of Vietnamese culture.

In Hoi An, Vietnamese people are known for their calm demeanor. Tourists can find that life in Hoi An feels like stepping back in time, with the locals holding strong ties to their heritage. On the other hand, Phu Quoc offers a vibrant lifestyle that reflects both coastal and mainland influences. This island is bustling with energy thanks to its growing popularity. The locals embrace Phu Quoc’s duality – where fishing traditions blend with the influx of tourism.

1.4. Attractions & activities

In January 2025, Hoi An was ranked 11th in the “Top Destinations” category under the “Best of the Best Destinations” in the Travelers’ Choice Awards by Tripadvisor. Meanwhile, Phu Quoc topped the list of the fastest-growing destinations in Southeast Asia, as recognized by Travel Off Path in February 2025.

When researching Hoi An or Phu Quoc for your next getaway, you’ll see two very different sides of Vietnam.

Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its preserved architecture. Highlights include the Japanese Bridge, Cantonese Assembly Hall, Quan Cong Temple, Tan Ky Old House, Phung Hung Old House, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Hoi An Market for a taste of the local heritage. Meanwhile, An Bang Beach and the Cham Islands offer a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Hoi An Silk Village, and Tra Que Vegetable Village provide insight into the local crafts. To unwind, you can take a coconut boat ride in Hoi An Coconut Village or go to Hoi An cafes, where you can sip coffee and soak in the ambiance.

A must-visit in Hoi An is VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a dynamic amusement park that offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and thrilling entertainment. VinWonders Nam Hoi An features six unique theme zones that offer everything you need for excitement, including adrenaline-pumping games, eye-catching shows, exotic safaris, and much more.

VinWonders Nam Hoi An

VinWonders Nam Hoi An offers cultural exploration and thrilling entertainment

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

Meanwhile, Phu Quoc shines with many stunning beaches, including Bai Dai Beach, Khem Beach, Ong Lang Beach, and Sao Beach, which offer crystal-clear waters for a relaxing day. For adventure seekers, Gam Ghi Island and May Rut Island are secluded spots perfect for snorkeling. Ho Quoc Pagoda provides a peaceful retreat with scenic views, Phu Quoc Prison reveals the island’s wartime history, and Duong Dong Market is full of local flavor. Fingernail Island and Tranh Stream offer natural beauty, making Phu Quoc a well-rounded destination for all types of travelers.

For entertainment, Phu Quoc is a true paradise. Grand World Phu Quoc is a vibrant complex featuring colorful European-style architecture, bustling night markets, and a variety of cultural performances. VinWonders Phu Quoc stands as Vietnam’s largest theme park, boasting six themed zones with over 100 exhilarating games and captivating shows. Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s first semi-wild animal conservation park, where visitors can observe animals like tigers and giraffes in naturalistic habitats. 

VinWonders Phu Quoc

VinWonders Phu Quoc features adventures for all ages

Book VinWonders Phu Quoc ticket now

Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is home to over 100 animal species

Book Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc ticket now

Book Grand World Phu Quoc ticket now

1.5. Nightlife

Choosing Hoi An or Phu Quoc for your nightlife adventures depends on the kind of vibe you’re after.

Hoi An turns into a magical scene after sunset with glowing Hoi An lanterns lighting up every corner. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful Hoi An lantern boat ride on the Hoai River. Hoi An night markets offer street food and souvenirs. The calm, nostalgic vibe is perfect for culture lovers.

In contrast, Phu Quoc nightlife is lively and full of energy, perfect for travelers seeking fun after dark. Highlights include Phu Quoc Night Market, beach parties, and night squid fishing tours. Visitors can also explore the best bars in Phu Quoc, which offer great music and ocean views. 

1.6. Cuisine

Tourists often find it difficult to choose Hoi An or Phu Quoc when it comes to cuisine, as each destination offers its own enticing specialties. The best food in Hoi An includes mi Quang, cao lau, white rose dumplings, Hoi An chicken rice, and Hoi An pancake, which reflect the rich culinary culture of Central Vietnam. Meanwhile, Phu Quoc food is deeply influenced by its coastal location, offering a rich array of fresh seafood. The highlights are ken noodles, a flavorful fish noodle soup made with coconut milk, and sim wine, a wine made from the sim berry.

Sim wine is a must-try in Phu Quoc

Sim wine is a must-try in Phu Quoc (Source: Collected)

1.7. Shopping

Whether in Hoi An or Phu Quoc, shopping is a great way to connect with the local culture. Shopping in Hoi An offers a mix of local markets and shops. Hoi An Market is a popular place for purchasing silk, handicrafts, and delicacies. For a more personalized experience, many boutique shops offer tailor-made clothing. Meanwhile, Phu Quoc markets are known for their fresh seafood offerings. Visitors can also explore local markets for souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, spices, and traditional fishing tools. 

1.8. Transportation

The most popular way to explore Hoi An is on foot or by bike. For longer trips, taxis and motorbike rentals are available, while hotels’ shuttle services can also take you to major attractions. Additionally, boat rides along the river and cyclo rides through the streets offer unique ways to explore the town.

Phu Quoc offers more transportation options due to its larger size. Tourists often rent motorbikes to explore around freely. Taxis and hotels’ shuttle services are also readily available. To enjoy island-hopping, you can take boat tours along the coast. 

1.9. Accommodation

Hoi An vs Phu Quoc both offer a wide range of accommodation options for different tastes and budgets. In Hoi An, visitors can stay in homestays, hotels, or resorts, many of which are conveniently located near the town center or along scenic beaches. Phu Quoc also provides diverse options, from beachfront resorts to hotels and homestays in the island center.

If you seek a luxurious experience in either Hoi An or Phu Quoc, come to Vinpearl. Nestled along Binh Minh Beach, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An is a top-tier resort that combines comfort and breathtaking ocean views. Meanwhile, the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl Phu Quoc bring modern facilities and convenient amenities to every guest, making it an ideal place for travelers seeking a premium island getaway.

Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An

Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An is a luxurious beachfront resort

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An

Vinpearl Phu Quoc provides an unforgettable stay on the pearl island

Vinpearl Phu Quoc provides an unforgettable stay on the pearl island

Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc

1.10. Travel expenses

The travel expenses in Hoi An or Phu Quoc vary depending on your budget – whether affordable, mid-range, or luxurious. In Hoi An, the daily cost for meals ranges from 150,000 to 300,000 VND, while accommodation can cost from 300,000 VND/night. Entry to the ancient town costs around 120,000 VND. In general, the estimated total cost for a 2-day-1-night trip to Hoi An is about 1,800,000 VND per person.

In Phu Quoc, food and transportation may be slightly more expensive. The daily expenses for meals average 200,000 – 400,000 VND, and hotel room rates start at 500,000 VND/night. A day tour to An Thoi Archipelago can cost 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 VND. A 2-day-1-night getaway in Phu Quoc typically costs between 2,000,000 and 2,500,000 VND per person.

2. Who should choose Hoi An?

Hoi An stands out as a peaceful haven filled with cultural depth. It’s perfect for couples, families, senior travelers, or anyone who loves a slow pace of life. If you enjoy lantern-lit streets, traditional dishes, and hands-on activities like farming or lantern-making, come to Hoi An.

Read more: Hoi An itinerary: Top attractions, dining, and plans for 1-5 days

3. Who should choose Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc is ideal for those who love the sea and seek to reconnect with nature. This island is also perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, young friends eager to explore together, luxury travelers, or families who want to bond in a relaxing environment.

Read more: Phu Quoc itinerary: A guide to explore the best of the island in 1-5 days

Whether you choose Hoi An or Phu Quoc depends on the kind of experiences you’re after. If you’re drawn to the allure of cultural heritage, Hoi An is the place to be. If you’re looking for a tropical island escape, Phu Quoc will not disappoint.

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