Hoi An Impression

From strolling through the ancient town at night, savoring a bowl of Cao Lau (Cao Lầu), having clothes tailored in just a few hours, to floating lanterns down the Hoai River—Hoi An offers visitors a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Once one of the busiest trading ports in Southeast Asia, this charming riverside town still echoes the grandeur of its golden age.

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in this UNESCO World Heritage site and are wondering how best to spend your time, here are some must-try activities that will give you a deeper understanding of Hoi An’s beauty, culture, and people.

1. Take a Nighttime Stroll Through the Ancient Town

One of the simplest yet most magical experiences in Hoi An is simply taking a walk through its lantern-lit streets after dark. As night falls, the old houses glow under the soft light of colorful lanterns, creating a dreamlike setting where past and present blend seamlessly. It feels like entering a living painting—a tranquil yet vibrant scene shaped by centuries-old architecture, bustling street vendors, and the gentle hum of modern life.

The most enchanting stretch is arguably along the Hoai River, where the shimmering reflections of lanterns dance on the water. As the crowds die down and the shops close, the Ancient Town reveals its true timeless soul—quiet, nostalgic, and hauntingly beautiful.

2. Release a Lantern on the Hoai River

As you wander the riverside at night, take part in one of Hoi An’s most beloved traditions: floating a paper lantern down the Hoai River. This simple yet symbolic act—releasing a glowing lantern with a quiet wish—is a highlight for many visitors. Whether it’s for luck, love, or remembrance, it’s a deeply peaceful and culturally rich moment.

Lanterns, along with the town’s signature silk-covered lights, have become a defining feature of Hoi An tourism and are especially vibrant during full moon festivals.

3. Try the Iconic Dish: Cao Lau (Cao Lầu)

No visit to Hoi An is complete without tasting its most famous dish—Cao Lau (Cao Lầu). This local specialty is as legendary as it is delicious. Its name, which literally means “high floor,” is believed to have originated from ancient traders who dined on the upper floors of shops to watch over their goods.

A proper bowl of Cao Lau (Cao Lầu) is a unique combination of chewy rice noodles, crisp greens, fragrant herbs, a savory broth, and crunchy pork cracklings. You can find this beloved dish at many street-side stalls and markets—some of the best places include Ba Be’s stall at the Tran Phu market entrance, the alley at 69 Phan Chau Trinh, or the corner shop on Tran Phu and Hoang Dieu.

4. Eat What Some Call “The World’s Best Banh Mi”

After sampling 15 different bread sandwiches across Vietnam, BBC food journalist David Farley called Vietnamese bread “the world’s best sandwich.” And in Hoi An, you’ll find some of the most famous versions of it.

Standouts include Banh Mi Phuong on Phan Chau Trinh (once visited by Anthony Bourdain), Madam Khanh’s “The Banh Mi Queen” on Tran Cao Van, and Ba Lanh’s shop near Cua Dai. The secret lies in the rich pate, crisp pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, roast pork, and a drizzle of signature sauce—all wrapped in a perfectly baked baguette.

5. Take a Romantic Boat Ride on the Hoai River

Taking a boat ride along the Hoai River in the evening is one of the most romantic experiences in Hoi An. Many couples—especially those visiting for wedding photos—choose this scenic activity for its poetic charm. But it’s not just for lovebirds. Families, solo travelers, and friends can all enjoy the calm waters, city lights, and festive lanterns.

6. Sip Coffee by the River

Hoi An mornings are peaceful, and there’s no better way to start the day than with a hot cup of coffee by the river. Try the modest street-side cafés like Co Thao’s at the bend of the Japan Bridge heading toward Bach Dang, which attracts a young crowd. Across the bridge, another café draws an older clientele, both offering picturesque views of the Hoai River.

For a truly unique experience, visit Reaching Out Tea House at 131 Tran Phu. Run by hearing-impaired staff, the café offers a tranquil, silent retreat perfect for mindful sipping and slow living.

7. Get Custom Clothes Tailored in One Day

Hoi An is a global tailoring hotspot. You can have custom-made clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories ready in just 4–6 hours. The speed, affordability, and quality of tailoring have earned international acclaim—including praise from Forbes.

Prices range from $15 to $100 depending on fabric and design. Whether you want a bespoke suit, a traditional áo dài, or a summer dress, Hoi An’s tailors deliver style with a personal touch.

8. Relax on the Beach

Hoi An boasts stunning white-sand beaches and clear blue waters. Cua Dai Beach was once the pride of the region, though parts of it have suffered from erosion in recent years. For a quieter, untouched vibe, head to An Bang Beach—recognized among the world’s top 50 beaches.

Here, you won’t find rows of umbrellas or beach chairs—just sun, sea, and serenity. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a cold beer, a light book, or a quiet stroll along the shore.

9. Explore the Ancient Houses

Hoi An’s old houses have stood the test of time—surviving wars, floods, and urbanization. Each carries the stories of generations past. Among the most famous is the Tan Ky House, the first to be recognized as a national heritage site. It has hosted countless dignitaries from around the world.

Others worth visiting include Phung Hung House, Quan Thang House, and the Chinese Assembly Halls of Fujian and Guangdong—all showcasing intricate architecture and cultural heritage.

10. Dive and Snorkel at Cu Lao Cham

About 15 km offshore, the Cham Islands (Cù Lao Chàm) are a nature-lover’s paradise. The area is less developed than mainland Hoi An, which helps preserve its pristine appeal. Here, you can snorkel among coral reefs, camp on the beach, enjoy seafood feasts, or stay with local families in cozy homestays.

The marine life is vibrant, the atmosphere unspoiled, and the island itself a refreshing escape from the mainland crowds.

11. Play Traditional Vietnamese Folk Games

Every night in Hoi An, the spirit of traditional culture comes alive through folk games like Bai Choi or “beating the pot” games. You’ll find these activities around Nguyen Thai Hoc Street or Kazik Park. Both locals and tourists join in, creating a lively and communal atmosphere.

It’s not just fun—it’s a chance to connect with the living heritage of the town in a meaningful way.

12. Take a Memorable Photo in Hoi An

Hoi An is consistently ranked as one of the most photogenic places in the world. BuzzFeed Travel even named it the third-best destination for selfies globally.

Iconic photo spots include the Japanese Covered Bridge, An Hoi Bridge, the legendary yellow wall on Hoang Van Thu Street, narrow alleyways, old wells, and the romantic riverbank—each corner is Instagram-worthy.

13. Ride the Ferry to Cam Kim Island

For a unique local experience, hop on a wooden ferry for just 2,000 VND (less than $0.10) to cross the river to Cam Kim Island. This peaceful village was once home to Hoi An’s finest woodworkers.

Even if the artisan trade is fading, the ferry ride itself is rewarding. From the boat, you can admire the Old Town from a distance and breathe in the refreshing breeze off the Thu Bồn River.

14. Buy a Handcrafted Lantern as a Souvenir

Lanterns are Hoi An’s most iconic souvenir. Made from bamboo and silk, they come in all shapes and colors. Whether you’re buying one for yourself or as a gift, a Hoi An lantern will always remind you of the magic of this heritage town.

15. Watch the Breathtaking Hoi An Memories Show

A must-see cultural experience, the Hoi An Memories Show is Vietnam’s largest outdoor spectacle and one of the most impressive live performances in Southeast Asia. Staged at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park on a vast 25,000-square-meter open-air set, the show brings to life 400 years of Hoi An’s history through breathtaking choreography, state-of-the-art lighting, and a cast of over 500 actors.
The performance is divided into five acts, depicting the journey of a young girl through different eras—from the Cham Kingdom to the golden age of the port town of Faifo. Each scene blends music, storytelling, traditional dance, and modern stage technology to offer a captivating journey into the town’s cultural soul.
The venue itself, located on Cam Nam Island, is designed like a living museum. Arrive early to explore the streets of the Impression Theme Park, watch mini shows, and enjoy street food before the main event.
This is not just a show—it’s a cultural immersion and a visual feast that leaves a lasting memory for all who attend.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends or full moon nights. Front-row or VIP seats provide the best view of the massive stage and intricate choreography.

16. Visit During a Full Moon Festival

Hoi An is at its most magical during the full moon (14th of the lunar month). On these nights, electric lights are turned off in the Ancient Town, and thousands of lanterns take their place. Locals and tourists gather by the river to release lanterns, enjoy traditional music, and soak in the cultural atmosphere.

In addition to full moon nights, special events like the Mau Festival, Vu Lan (Buddhist Parent’s Day), Mid-Autumn Festival, and Lantern Festival offer deep cultural insights and unforgettable memories.

Final Thoughts

Though compact in size, Hoi An offers a rich and diverse array of experiences. From history and cuisine to nature and nightlife, this ancient town has a way of captivating everyone who visits. And as you explore each hidden corner, you’ll find that Hoi An isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel, remember, and return to.