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

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Don’t miss this article – A useful Hoi An travel guide for all (Source: Collected)

1. Must-visit places on your Hoi An itinerary

Hoi An is an ancient town in Quang Nam Province and one of Vietnam’s most prominent destinations. It boasts numerous historical and cultural sites, ancient architecture, and interesting recreational spots. Let’s explore!

1.1. Hoi An Ancient Town

The must-visit place on your Hoi An – Vietnam itinerary is Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every street, every corner, with yellow-tinted houses, moss-covered roofs, and bougainvillea trees, provides delightful photo opportunities and insights into local culture.

You can pay a visit to notable historic sites like the Japanese Bridge, the Cantonese Assembly Hall, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and the Tan Ky Old House. Other experiences include engaging in traditional games, taking a boat ride and releasing lanterns on the picturesque Hoai River, or cycling through lantern-lit streets to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

When to visit Hoi An? You can explore the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town year-round (Source: Collected)

1.2. VinWonders Nam Hoi An

Your Hoi An itinerary should include VinWonders Nam Hoi An – one of Central Vietnam’s top modern amusement parks. This park features six zones, seamlessly blending traditional art with contemporary entertainment. 

Harbor Corner recreates the lively atmosphere of Hoi An’s 17th-century trading port, showcasing architectural marvels. The Island of Folk Culture highlights Vietnamese traditional performances and crafts. The River Safari offers exciting river cruises to view rare animals, while Adventure Land delivers thrilling rides. Water World features exhilarating water activities, and the Indoor Game zone boasts over 95 interactive activities suitable for all ages.

Appreciate the culture and heritage at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

1.3. An Bang Beach

Hoi An is home to beautiful and pristine beaches that deserve a spot on any Hoi An itinerary. Among the most beautiful Hoi An beaches, An Bang Beach, 3 kilometers from the city center, is listed as one of the world’s top 50 beaches by CNN. 

Known for its clear blue waters, green trees, gentle waves, and white sandy shores, it is perfect for beachgoers and sunbathers. The tranquil setting allows you to relax while fishing near the shore, renting a boat with local fishermen, or enjoying various water sports.

1.4. Cham Islands

Add Cham Islands to your Hoi An itinerary if you are a fan of islands and pristine marine ecosystems. About 20 kilometers from Hoi An’s center and accessible by canoe or wooden boat, Cham Islands boasts a well-preserved marine ecosystem with rare fish and vibrant corals, perfect for snorkeling and sea walking. 

Visitors can also enjoy fishing and fresh seafood. The island offers additional attractions, including the Cham Islands Marine Museum, Hai Tang Pagoda, Cham Well, Tan Hiep Market, Ong Beach, and Chong Beach.

Experience unforgettable snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs (Source: Collected)

1.5. Traditional craft villages

Traditional craft villages are also interesting stops on a perfect Hoi An itinerary. Notably, Tra Que Vegetable Village is renowned for its fresh produce grown in fertile soil, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic farming by planting and harvesting vegetables.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village, dating back to the late 15th century, allows you to explore local pottery and create your own unique pieces. Other historic craft villages include Kim Bong Carpentry Village with intricate woodworks and Phuoc Kieu Bronze Casting Village, which has been around for 400 years.

1.6. Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Bay Mau Coconut Forest, about 3 kilometers from the ancient town, is a famous eco-tourism spot in Hoi An known for its serene, lush beauty. A highlight on any Hoi An itinerary, this destination offers visitors the chance to ride basket boats through winding waterways and exploring the verdant coconut forest in a tranquil setting. Besides basket boat rides, visitors can enjoy exciting basket boat dance performances, make small souvenir crafts from coconut leaves, and sample local delicacies.

Enjoy the serene, lush green Bay Mau Coconut Forest – An essential part of your Hoi An itinerary (Source: Collected)

1.7. Hoi An cafes

Relaxing in a cafe in Hoi An, where you can enjoy the local pace of life and scenic views, will be a memorable experience. Besides delicious tea and coffee, each cafe in Hoi An has its unique charm. 

Some Hoi An cafes are nestled in centuries-old houses, allowing you to appreciate historic architecture, while others are rooftop spots offering stunning views of the illuminated Old Town and its lantern lights. Exploring the town’s alleys reveals cafes that blend traditional and modern styles, while those farther afield are set amidst rice fields, perfect for enjoying fresh air.

1.8. My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is a must-visit cultural and historical site on your Hoi An itinerary. Located 40 kilometers from Hoi An, it was the Hindu holy site of the ancient Champa Kingdom, featuring 70 temple structures within a valley surrounded by hills. 

Exploring these towers offers insight into the religion and beliefs of the Champa Kingdom, dedicated to the deity Shiva. You will also admire unique ancient architectural styles such as Indochine, My Son, and Po Nagar, showcased in intricate carvings of flora, fauna, the Champa’s Kala-Makara symbol, and the mythical Makara.

My Son Sanctuary, with the impressive ancient architecture, is a must-see on your Hoi An itinerary (Source: Collected)

Discover: Hoi An things to do: Make your journey in 2024 full of excitement

2. Unmissable food places in the itinerary for Hoi An

Hoi An’s cuisine is diverse, offering unforgettable flavors at very affordable prices, starting from just 10,000 VND. From Hoi An street foods like che (sweet soup) and tofu pudding to famous dishes like banh mi, cao lau, Hoi An chicken rice, and Quang noodles, this destination offers countless eateries open from early morning until late at night. Popular dining spots you should include on your Hoi An itinerary are:

• Ba Buoi Chicken Rice: 22 Phan Chu Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
• Banh Mi Madam Khanh: 115 Tran Cao Van, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
• Cao Lau Thanh: 26 Thai Phien, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
• Banh Xeo at Ba Le Well: 45/51 Tran Hung Dao, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
• Mr Hai Quang Noodles: 6A Truong Minh Luong, Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An

Hoi An offers a variety of delicious and affordable food for visitors (Source: Collected)

More on: Hoi An restaurants: 11+ highly recommend places to enjoy food and relax

3. Suggest Hoi An itineraries for 1-5 days for first-time visitors

How many days in Hoi An? If you are crafting your perfect Hoi An travel itinerary, do not miss the detailed suggestions below, promising unforgettable experiences whether you have just one day or up to five days in Hoi An.

3.1. Hoi An 1-day itinerary

If you have just one day in Hoi An, you can spend the entire day exploring the Ancient Town. Start by strolling through charming alleys and admiring the beautiful old houses. Next, shop for handicrafts, savor local cuisine, and visit the Japanese Bridge. Finally, take a boat ride on the Hoai River to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hoi An at sunset.

On your Hoi An day trip itinerary, experience releasing lanterns on the Hoai River (Source: Collected)

3.2. Hoi An 2-day itinerary

What to do in Hoi An for 2 days? This Hoi An itinerary introduces you to various facets of Hoi An, blending cultural and natural experiences:

• Day 1: Visit the Ancient Town and explore iconic architectural sites. Later, check out the bustling Hoi An Night Market for local food and souvenirs.
• Day 2: Watch the sunrise and enjoy the pristine beach at An Bang Beach. Spend the rest of the day at VinWonders Nam Hoi An, which offers hundreds of games and engaging cultural and natural experiences.

3.3. Hoi An 3-day itinerary

For a Hoi An Vietnam 3-day itinerary, you should:

Day 1:

• Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village to learn about its history and try pottery-making.
• Wander through the Ancient Town, a must-visit on every Hoi An itinerary, and enjoy street food.
• Take a boat ride on the Hoai River and release lanterns.

Day 2:

• Relax at An Bang Beach and catch the sunrise.
• Enjoy exciting activities at VinWonders Nam Hoi An, including thrilling games, water games, and cultural insights.

Day 3:

• Explore Cu Lao Cham Island with its pristine beauty and diverse marine ecosystem.
• Head to Da Nang and explore the city’s nightlife at spots like Love Bridge, Han River Bridge, and beach bars.

What to do in Hoi An for 3 days? – Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Source: Collected)

3.4. Hoi An 4-day itinerary

This well-crafted Da Nang and Hoi An itinerary combines natural beauty, cultural experiences, culinary delights, and lively entertainment:

Day 1:

• Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest and connect with nature.
• Wander through the Ancient Town, visit the Night Market, and savor the local cuisine.

Day 2:

• Relax at An Bang Beach and catch the sunrise.
• Have fun at VinWonders Nam Hoi An with thrilling games and cultural experiences.

Day 3:

• Enjoy Cu Lao Cham Island with activities like snorkeling and squid fishing.
• In Da Nang, savor fresh seafood and take a Han River cruise to see the Dragon Bridge’s fire-breathing spectacle.

Day 4:

• Visit Linh Ung Pagoda and Son Tra Peninsula to enjoy stunning natural scenery and spiritual experiences.
• Shop for souvenirs and taste local cuisine at Con Market.

3.5. Hoi An 5-day itinerary

Within five days on your Da Nang – Hoi An itinerary, you will have ample time to explore Da Nang and Hoi An’s highlights with diverse experiences:

Day 1:

• Spend a full day in the Ancient Town, visiting historic sites, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, and sampling local food. 

Day 2: 

• Admire the architecture and learn about the culture at My Son Sanctuary.
• Explore Central Market, a lively spot with colorful stalls offering various goods.
• Delve into the town’s rich history at the Hoi An Museum.

Day 3: 

• Have a blast at VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a premium amusement park.

Day 4: 

• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village and make a Vietnamese-style meal with fresh veggies.
• Swim, watch the sunset, eat seafood, and party at a beachside bar at An Bang Beach.

Day 5: 

• Travel to Da Nang to visit the Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, and Linh Ung Pagoda.
• Visit Han Market, a vibrant hub showcasing Da Nang’s local specialties and handicrafts.
• Stroll along the Han River to admire the picturesque views of iconic bridges.

Have memorable moments with friends and family at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

A well-crafted Hoi An itinerary ensures you experience the town’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant entertainment. Whether your stay is brief or extended, a well-planned Hoi An itinerary will help you embrace the essence of this enchanting destination and create lasting memories.