Best Things to do in Hoi An: Make your journey full of excitement

Contents

1. Hoi An Vietnam things to do: Discover iconic landmarks & historical sites

Hoi An dazzles on Vietnam’s central coast, where history, culture, and charm craft an irresistible escape. Travelers hunting for the best things to do in Hoi An will adore its iconic landmarks—an unparalled entertainment complex, lantern-lit ancient streets, lively markets, and mystical ruins. Hoi An’s captivating historical treasures beckon you to this magical town.

1.1. Unwind at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

VinWonders Nam Hoi An is about 17 kilometers away from the center of Hoi An City. This park has five subdivisions, namely Harbor Corner, Island of Folk Culture, River Safari, Adventure Land, and Water World. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. and offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors to take part in.

One of the fun things to do in Hoi An is to let your hair down at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

• Harbor Corner: You can see 12 huge symbolic ships at the entrance of this subdivision. The distinctive scenery and ambiance of a bustling commercial port in the 16th and 17th centuries are faithfully recreated in this area. The river here is quite lyrical, making it an excellent backdrop for taking pictures.
• Island of Folk Culture: It has many different distinctive art forms that have been recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritages of the world. At this place, tourists can explore the aesthetic pinnacle of traditional Vietnamese communities.
• River Safari: Here, you can cruise down a river that was modeled like the renowned Amazon River and observe a variety of animals. Specifically, it is home to 50 endangered species in Vietnam and around the world as well.
• Adventure Land: This subdivision is a real-life amusement haven with about 100 indoor games and more than 20 amazing outdoor games. Therefore, this is considered the best location for adventure and exploration-loving tourists to show off their bravery in their Hoi An trip.
• Water World: This subdivision offers visitors a wonderful system of slides, pools, and a number of fantastic activities. Among them, the 55-meter-long Boomerang Slide is a must-try to unwind with your loved ones.

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

A great number of Hoi An best things to do await you at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

1.2. Wander through Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town serves as the heart and soul of this coastal gem, inviting you into a living museum and standing as the quintessential experience among things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam. Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful lanterns, and centuries-old buildings create a timeless atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. This historic trading port, once a bustling hub for merchants from China, Japan, and Europe, showcases a unique fusion of cultures in every corner.

Take photos in front of the Japanese Bridge Hoi An

Japanese Bridge Hoi An, crossing over the enchanting Hoai River, is a well-known destination for visitors to Hoi An thanks to its prime location in the heart of the historic town. It is likened to a testimony to a period of architectural interference between Japan, Vietnam, and China in Hoi An Ancient Town.

The building’s architectural characteristics show the harmonious, distinctive, and stunning quintessence of Vietnam and the above East Asian countries. A special thing about this place is that it is present on the VND 20,000 bill. Coming here, do not forget to wear an elegant outfit and take some stunning shots.

Japanese Covered Bridge – a landmark of Hoi An Ancient Town (Source: Collected)

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Ancient houses and assembly halls

Exploring Hoi An’s ancient houses and assembly halls ranks high on the list of what to do in Hoi An, offering a deep dive into its heritage. These historic sites, with their intricate designs, tell stories of a vibrant past waiting to be discovered.

In your list of Hoi An things to do, include the below awesome destinations:

• Tan Ky Ancient House: Built in 1741, it served as a hub for both local commerce and international trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1990, this historic home was designated a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO. Nowadays, a local family still resides on the top floor while visitors are welcome to take a tour around the first floor.

• Phung Hung Ancient House: L​​ocated at No. 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, it is a typical commercial building that depicts metropolitan Vietnam in the 19th century. The house was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site in 1993. It has been preserving a number of records regarding architecture, culture and art.

Admiring the beauty of Tan Ky Ancient House is one of the top Hoi An things to do (Source: @chick.m_22)

• Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: Its architecture exemplifies both traditional Chinese architecture and Fujian artistic design. As a well-known sacred shrine in Hoi An, it has welcomed many locals and visitors to worship the gods and ask for favors. Also, it hosts a variety of yearly religious celebrations, giving attendees a chance to immerse themselves in exotic culture.

• Cantonese Assembly Hall: This place was built in the final decades of the 19th century. It once served as a hub for Chinese gatherings, meetings, and trade activities. Although there are no longer any official religious or cultural activities here like in the past, many priceless historical records and artifacts are still being kept here.

• Trieu Chau Assembly Hall: Also known as Ong Bon Pagoda, it was built in 1845 as a place for communal activities of overseas Chinese in Chaozhou. Its attraction comes from the stories and architecture that show the typical culture of merchants.

Exploring the architectural beauty of famous assembly halls is one of the best Hoi An things to do (Source: Collected)

Discover more: Hoi An Vietnam map: A full guide for your exploration

1.3. Visit My Son Sanctuary

If you’re wondering what to do in Hoi An, consider taking a day trip to My Son Sanctuary, located about 40 km from the town. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Hidden in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, My Son is an ancient complex of Hindu temples built by the Cham civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries.

The sanctuary showcases stunning examples of Champa architecture with intricate carvings, unique designs, and a sense of mystical allure. While there, you can also enjoy traditional Cham performances, which add a cultural depth to your visit. Don’t forget to capture some stunning photos of these ancient ruins to remember your journey.

My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient Champa ruins set in a lush, mountainous landscape (Source: Collected)

1.4. Browse Hoi An Central Market

Hoi An Central Market pulses with local energy both inside and out, making it a feast for the senses and one of the most authentic things to do in Hoi An Vietnam. The outdoor stalls tempt you with heaps of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and handmade crafts, perfect for soaking in the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Inside, the market buzzes with vendors serving up authentic Vietnamese street food like cao lau—a local noodle dish you won’t find anywhere else.

Tropical fruits like mangoes and dragon fruit spill from colorful displays, while fragrant herbs and traditional goods like silk scarves and handcrafted lanterns beckon as souvenirs. This lively hub captures Hoi An’s spirit and offers a chance to mingle with locals while savoring its rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Hoi An Central Market, a bustling hub of local flavors and culture (Source: Collected)

2. Adventure through outdoor activities & scenic rides

Hoi An lures thrill-seekers and nature lovers with its stunning landscapes and exciting outdoor adventures. Beyond its historic charm, this coastal gem offers a playground of scenic rides and activities that showcase its natural beauty. From cycling through lush countryside to cruising rivers and hiking rugged peaks, this Central Vietnam destination promises exhilarating Vietnam Hoi An things to do for every adventurer!

2.1. Take a basket boat ride in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest

One of the most unique things to do in Hoi An is to take a basket boat ride through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Located just 3 km from Hoi An’s ancient town in Cam Thanh, this lush water coconut forest spans several hectares and offers a fascinating glimpse into local life. For around 200,000 VND per person, you’ll hop into a traditional round basket boat and float along narrow waterways, surrounded by vibrant coconut palms.

This hour-long adventure is more than just a scenic ride — you’ll also witness exciting boat performances and learn to make creative souvenirs like flowers, grasshoppers, bracelets, and hats from coconut leaves. If you visit during the eighth lunar month, you can taste the delicious water coconut fruit, known for its crunchy texture and sweet flavor. This experience has quickly become a signature attraction in Hoi An.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a serene natural oasis in Hoi An, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride amidst dense coconut groves (Source: Collected)

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2.2. Cycle through Hoi An countryside

Hoi An’s countryside enchants cyclists with its serene beauty, featuring sprawling emerald rice paddies, charming villages, and winding dirt paths begging to be explored. For Hoi An day trips, you can rent a bike and pedal through tranquil scenes of farmers in conical hats tending fields with water buffalo, a timeless snapshot of rural Vietnam. 

A detour to Tra Que Vegetable Village, renowned for its fresh organic herbs and peaceful ambiance, offers a chance to stop and savor local life. This refreshing escape from Hoi An’s bustling streets surrounds you with vibrant greenery, cool breezes, and the soothing rhythm of nature, making every moment unforgettable.

Immerse in the peaceful rhythms of rural life in Hoi An with cycling tours (Source: Collected)

Discover more: Hoi An bike tours: Useful guide for your first experience

2.3. Cruise on the Thu Bon River

Hoi An’s Thu Bon River runs as the town’s lifeline, and a boat cruise reveals its tranquil charm in a way that captivates every visitor. Traditional wooden boats drift past fishermen casting nets, bustling floating markets, and sleepy hamlets nestled among lush coconut palms along the water’s edge. 

You can opt for a sunset cruise, where golden hues dance on the river, or a night ride when glowing lanterns illuminate the banks in a mesmerizing display. This relaxing journey immerses you in the river’s central role in Hoi An’s daily life, connecting you to its rich cultural heritage and scenic splendor.

Sailing at sunset on Thu Bon River is a tranquil option among things to do in Hoi An Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.4. Hike in Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains near Hoi An feature five majestic limestone peaks, each tied to an element and steeped in local legend and mystique. Paths twist through these rugged hills, guiding you to hidden caves, ancient Buddhist pagodas, and jaw-dropping vistas of the coastline stretching below. 

A moderate hike, complete with stone steps and natural trails, reveals sacred shrines and cool caverns perfect for a moment of reflection. Panoramic views from the summit reward your climb, blending the thrill of adventure with a peaceful calm that makes this natural wonder a highlight of any Hoi An trip.

Marble Mountains, a must-stop for adventurous souls when visiting Hoi An and Da Nang (Source: Collected)

2.5. Journey to Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass links Da Nang & Hoi An to Hue with a breathtaking route famed for its dramatic cliffs, misty peaks, and sweeping ocean views. You can hop on a motorbike or join a guided tour to navigate this winding path, where every turn unveils turquoise waters and lush hillsides in stunning succession. 

Stops at historic French bunkers from the war era and scenic lookouts offer chances to soak in the views and snap photos. Celebrated on “Top Gear” (2008) for its unrivaled beauty, this journey delivers a thrilling mix of adrenaline and awe amid Vietnam’s most spectacular coastal landscapes.

Hai Van Pass, one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world (Source: Collected)

3. Relax at beaches & enjoy water-based fun in Hoi An Vietnam

Hoi An shines as a coastal haven where golden beaches and playful waters invite you to kick back or dive into adventure. Whether you’re chasing the top things to do in Hoi An Vietnam – from beach lounging to river paddling – these sun-soaked and water-filled experiences promise pure bliss!

3.1. Unwind at Hoi An beaches

Hoi An beaches line its stunning coastline and offer perfect retreats for those craving sun, sand, and serenity. A quick trip from the ancient town brings you to these sandy stretches, where gentle waves lap against the shore and a relaxed vibe reigns supreme. Beachside cafes serve up fresh juices and seafood, while loungers beckon for a day of unwinding under the warm sun. The refreshing sea breeze provides welcome relief from inland heat, making these coastal havens popular with locals and travelers alike throughout the year.

An Bang Beach

An Bang Beach glows with powdery white sand and turquoise waters, earning global praise as one of the Top 10 Best Beaches in Asia (TripAdvisor, 2024) and a spot on CNN’s “Top 100 Beaches in the World” (2013). You can swim in the calm waves, sip drinks at bamboo bars, or stroll the shore as fishing boats dot the serene horizon.

Cua Dai Beach

Cua Dai Beach captivates with golden sands and expansive ocean views, perfect for sunset strolls, Hoi An surfing on gentle waves, or relaxing with fresh coconuts beneath swaying palms. The tranquil atmosphere and mellow surf create an ideal balance of peaceful respite and playful water activities for a perfect day by the sea.

3.2. Snorkel & dive at Cham Islands

Cham Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, sits like a jeweled crown just 15km offshore from Hoi An. This marine paradise boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a premier destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Underwater explorers can glide among colorful coral gardens and encounter tropical fish in visibility often exceeding 10 meters.

Beyond aquatic adventures, visitors can trek through lush forest trails, explore traditional fishing villages, or simply relax on secluded white-sand beaches. Day trips from Hoi An offer snorkeling excursions, while dedicated diving centers provide PADI-certified courses for all levels. With its protected status ensuring ecological preservation, the Cham Islands represent Vietnam’s coastal splendor at its most unspoiled.

Cham Island is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving in central Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Discover more: Hoi An itinerary: A full guide for authentic experiences

3.3. Paddle by kayak or paddleboard

Hoi An’s diverse waterways beckon adventurers with kayaks and paddleboards, offering unique perspectives of both river and coastal landscapes. Along the Thu Bon River, paddlers glide past ancient coconut forests, fishing villages, and lush green banks, while the open waters of An Bang and Cua Dai beaches provide panoramic ocean views perfect for all skill levels. 

Paddleboarding adds a playful challenge as you balance atop crystal waters, taking in sweeping vistas from the countryside to the coastline. This peaceful yet invigorating activity delivers an intimate connection with nature, ranking among the best things to do in Hoi An Vietnam whether you choose river tranquility or beachside adventure.

Kayaking in Hoi An, a fantastic way to explore the city’s tranquil waterways (Source: Collected)

3.4. Enjoy a lantern boat ride on the Hoai River

A quintessential experience in Hoi An is a boat ride on the Hoai River at night, which offers a magical view of the town illuminated by countless lanterns. One of the most beloved activities among tourists is releasing small, colorful lanterns onto the river, a tradition believed to bring good luck and wishes for health and happiness. As you float along the serene waters, you can admire the reflections of the lanterns dancing on the river’s surface, creating an enchanting atmosphere that captures the town’s romantic spirit.

Floating lanterns on the Hoai River is a magical Hoi An tradition, illuminating the night with soft, glowing lights (Source: Collected)

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4. Immerse Yourself in Cultural & Hands-On Experiences

Hoi An bursts with cultural richness, offering hands-on activities that let you dive deep into its traditions and flavors. From crafting iconic lanterns to savoring local cuisine, these experiences bring Vietnam’s heritage to life in vibrant, interactive ways. For those seeking a quick cultural fix, these activities rank high among things to do in Hoi An in a day, promising a memorable connection to this enchanting town. 

4.1. Join a lantern-making workshop

The glowing Hoi An lanterns light up its streets and define its magical charm, and a lantern-making workshop invites you to create your own masterpiece. Local artisans lead you step-by-step, teaching you to bend bamboo frames, stretch vibrant silk, and assemble a lantern that’s yours to keep. 

Held in quaint studios or traditional homes, these sessions unveil the craftsmanship behind Hoi An’s nightly glow. Families have passed down these techniques for generations, preserving an art form that dates back to centuries ago. Each workshop begins with a brief history of this luminous tradition before guiding participants through the delicate process of selection and assembly.

Participating in a lantern-making workshop is a unique way to experience Hoi An Vietnam craftsmanship (Source: Collected)

4.2. Take a cooking class with a local market tour

Hoi An cooking classes rank among the top things to do in Hoi An, offering authentic cultural immersion through food. Your adventure begins at vibrant local markets where guides introduce you to fresh Vietnamese ingredients and regional specialties. The morning market exploration is a sensory feast, navigating colorful stalls filled with exotic produce while expert guides share insights about unfamiliar ingredients and cooking techniques.

The subsequent cooking session takes place in charming venues, often historic buildings or garden settings, where participants learn to prepare classic dishes such as spring rolls, pho, or local specialties like cao lau and white rose dumplings. This experience provides both culinary skills and insights into Vietnam’s rich food heritage, creating memories and flavors you can recreate long after your journey ends.

Cooking classes, a must-try among things to do in Hoi An Vietnam for food lovers (Source: Collected)

4.3. Enjoy traditional folk performances

Hoi An’s traditional folk performances showcase Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage through captivating artistic expressions. The ancient town hosts various shows featuring classical Vietnamese opera, water puppetry, and folk dance accompanied by traditional instruments. 

Local theaters present nightly performances where skilled artists in vibrant costumes bring ancient legends and daily life scenes to vivid reality. Traditional performances at the Traditional Art Performance House and Lune Center are particularly noteworthy. These authentic cultural displays transport audiences through Vietnam’s history while preserving age-old traditions for future generations.

Apsara Dance – the traditional performance of Khmer people in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

4.4. Visit traditional handicraft villages

Coming to some handicraft villages and learning about their traditions are among the interesting things to do in Hoi An Ancient Town. Below are some suggested places to visit:

• Thanh Ha Pottery Village: For five centuries, this village has continued to make pottery via manual shaping without the use of molds. Located on the banks of Thu Bon River, it is surely an excellent location for those who wish for a more genuine, hands-on experience in Hoi An.
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Vegetable cultivation is done with great care here. The water for irrigation is obtained from subterranean sources, meanwhile, seaweed taken from lagoons serves as fertilizer. Therefore, the vegetables like onion, basil, perilla, cilantro, etc. are always fresh and green.
• Kim Bong Carpentry Village: The village started focusing on carpentry in the 16th century and strongly developed following the busy trade scene of Hoi An. Although their golden time has passed, nowadays, local workers still maintain the old way of life and together contribute to the preservation of the craft village.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village is known as one of the oldest pottery villages in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Discover more: Silk Village Hoi An: Explore the age-old cultural quintessence of Hoi An

4.5. Experience Hoi An during festivals

Visiting Hoi An during a festival is a must-try experience that adds an extra layer of magic to your trip. The town truly comes alive on the 14th day of each lunar month for the full moon festival, where electric lights are turned off, and the streets are lit solely by colorful lanterns. The entire old town is transformed into a glowing wonderland, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the beauty of the moment.

Beyond the full moon festival, other significant events include the Lady Thien Hau Festival, Hoi An lantern festival, Vu Lan Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Tet Nguyen Tieu. Each festival provides a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of Hoi An.

Hoi An comes alive during festivals, with vibrant lanterns, cultural performances, and a captivating blend of tradition and celebration (Source: Collected)

5. Relish Hoi An’s food scene & local crafts

Hoi An delights the senses with its irresistible cuisine and showcases the beauty of its local craftsmanship. Enjoying coffee at charming cafés, exploring villages where rice paper and noodles are made, and joining a fishing excursion provide a rich, authentic experience of the town’s way of life. These pursuits highlight why things to do in Hoi An Vietnam are so captivating.

5.1. Try Hoi An’s Signature Dishes

What is Hoi An famous for? Its diverse cuisine is a highlight. The culinary landscape of Hoi An Vietnam bursts with vibrant tastes, drawing from the town’s rich history and coastal bounty to create unforgettable dishes. From fragrant herbs to savory broths, its food tells a story of tradition and innovation that food lovers can’t resist. For those asking what to eat in Hoi An, these must-try Hoi An foods offer a delicious way to connect with the town’s soul.

• Cao Lau: This famous food consists of Japanese udon-like noodles, roasted pork chunks that resemble Chinese Char Siu, raw greens, beansprouts, crunchy croutons, and a special sauce made in Hoi An. To add additional flavors, locals frequently combine Cao Lau with lime juice, Vietnamese chili paste, and sliced fresh chilies.
• Mi Quang: In a typical bowl of Mi Quang, you can usually find slices of pork, beef, or chicken; shrimp; quail eggs; flat rice noodles; and a small amount of bone broth. The dish can be eaten with rice crackers, seasonal vegetables, and herbs like basil, peanuts, mint, and coriander to balance the flavors.
• Banh Mi: Banh Mi is thin, crunchy Vietnamese bread which is filled with a variety of ingredients, usually pork, fried eggs, pate or poultry, and sour sauce. The feature of this Hoi An street food is the abundance of vegetables, including lettuce, cucumbers, pickled carrots, and coriander.

In your list of Hoi An things to do, do not forget to include enjoying Cao Lau (Source: @locpcs)

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5.2. Sip coffee at local cafés

Hoi An’s coffee scene thrives with Vietnam’s bold coffee culture, spotlighting classics like slow-drip coffee, ca phe sua da (iced with condensed milk), creamy egg coffee, and the quirky salt coffee—a local twist. These robust brews, rooted in tradition, draw caffeine lovers to the town’s cozy cafés. 

You can enjoy Hoi An cafes on rooftop spots in the ancient town, sipping amid lantern glow and bustling streets below. Countryside cafés offer a peaceful retreat with green views, while beachside haunts pair your drink with salty air and waves, making it one of the top things to do in Hoi An.

Exquisite view of Hoi An Ancient Town from a rooftop coffeehouse (Source: Collected)

5.3. Visit a rice paper & noodle making village

Villages like Cam Thanh, Tra Que, or Tuy Loan near Hoi An open a window into the artistry of crafting rice paper and noodles, which are essential to the region’s cuisine. Artisans demonstrate their craft—mixing rice batter, spreading it thin to dry under the sun, or shaping fresh noodles with finesse for dishes like cao lau or banh trang cuon thit heo (Vietnamese rice paper rolls). 

You can even roll up your sleeves and join in, surrounded by the charm of rural homes and verdant fields. This experience, blending culinary skill with village ambiance, stands out among the unique things to do in Hoi An for its authentic flavor and hands-on appeal.

See traditional techniques of making rice paper, an essential part of some signature Hoi An food (Source: Collected)

5.4. Experience a Hoi An fishing tour

A Hoi An fishing tour sweeps you onto the Thu Bon River or coastal waters, immersing you in the town’s age-old fishing traditions that pulse through its community. You’ll climb into a traditional round basket boat alongside seasoned local fishermen, learning the delicate art of casting nets as you glide across calm waters fringed with swaying palm trees. 

Nighttime trips elevate the adventure, with lanterns casting a soft, golden glow over the ripples, illuminating your efforts to reel in fish under a canopy of stars. This outing weaves together nature, hands-on learning, and the quiet pride of Hoi An’s fishing heritage, offering an intimate link to its riverside way of life.

Learn the authentic way of Vietnamese net fishing with a Hoi An fishing tour (Source: Collected)

5.5. Get tailor-made fashion in a day

Hoi An is famed for its bespoke tailoring services, where you can have custom-made clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories ready within hours. The town’s tailor shops are celebrated for their quality craftsmanship, unique styles, and quick turnaround times. With prices ranging from $15 to $100, depending on the material and design, this is an affordable way to bring home a stylish, personalized souvenir. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Vietnamese outfit or a contemporary design, Hoi An’s tailors can create it just for you.

Hoi An’s tailor shops are renowned for their fast, high-quality custom clothing, crafted to fit perfectly in just a few hours (Source: Collected)

6. Entertainment & Nightlife

When night falls, Hoi An awakens with a magical blend of traditional charm and contemporary excitement. From illuminated markets to waterfront lounges and mesmerizing shows, the ancient town’s evening offerings deserve prime placement in your Hoi An itinerary.

6.1. Shop at Hoi An Night Market

Hoi An Night Market weaves a vibrant tapestry of color and commerce after dark, making it a top choice for shopping in Hoi An and a must among things to do in Hoi An Vietnam in the evening. Stretching along Nguyen Hoang Street, hundreds of silk lanterns light up stalls filled with handcrafted treasures like intricate ceramics, tailor-made clothing, and local leather goods. 

Vendors tempt with authentic Vietnamese street food as irresistible aromas waft through the air. Visitors can hone their bargaining skills while chatting with friendly artisans, whose families have honed their crafts for generations. The market’s enchanting ambiance, with lanterns glowing against the nearby river, turns shopping into a cultural journey.

Hoi An Night Market is one of the most exciting attractions in town (Source: Collected)

6.2. Drink at Hoi An rooftop & riverside bars

The best bars in Hoi An offer enchanting nighttime escapes that rank among the city’s premier evening experiences. Perched above ancient rooftops or nestled alongside the Thu Bon River, these atmospheric venues serve creative cocktails infused with local ingredients like lemongrass and dragon fruit. 

Guests can savor Vietnamese craft beers while watching lantern-lit boats drift by or admiring the illuminated Ancient Town. Both sophisticated rooftop lounges and rustic waterfront establishments provide the perfect setting for conversation and soaking in Hoi An’s magical night time panorama, with the gentle river breeze carrying traditional music from nearby performances.

When the sun sets, Hoi An comes alive with vibrant bars, stylish cocktail lounges, and riverside drinking spots (Source: Collected)

6.3. Enjoy live music & cultural shows

Hoi An nightlife captivates with vibrant live music and cultural performances under the glow of silk lanterns. The ancient town square and riverside cafés host talented guitarists and folk singers creating magical soundscapes. Traditional bai choi singing and graceful Apsara dances unfold throughout the evening, while local games of bai choi cards and human chess invite participation. 

Moreover, the serene 14th lunar day ritual of releasing flower garlands on the Hoai River invites wishes and reflection amid the festivities. This authentic fusion of sound, light, and tradition ranks among the Hoi An best things to do for an enchanting night, immersing everyone in a sensory journey that bridges past and present through music and movement.

Lantern floating on the Hoai River is among the most enchanting experiences in Hoi An at night (Source: Collected)

6.4. Be mesmerized by the Bamboo Circus Show

Teh Dar, Hoi An’s renowned bamboo circus show, captivates audiences every evening at 6:00 PM with its blend of acrobatics and cultural storytelling. Hosted at the iconic bamboo dome-shaped Hoi An Lune Center, this performance uses bamboo in awe-inspiring ways to depict the tribal life of Vietnam’s Southwest Highlands. 

You’ll be spellbound by the performers’ strength and grace, weaving tales through daring feats and live music. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic beats create an immersive experience, making this show a thrilling highlight of Hoi An’s nightlife, perfect for those seeking a unique cultural spectacle.

If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience in Hoi An, Teh Dar Show is a must-see (Source: Collected)

The magic and charm of Hoi An Vietnam lies in the diversity of adventures that await around every corner. The top things to do in Hoi An Vietnam above promise a meaningful connection to this enchanting destination. Your visit will be filled with moments that resonate for years to come!