Friends, Hoi An feels cinematic—lantern-lit lanes, bright riverboats, and artisan workshops at every turn. This guide packs the town’s best experiences into a clean, practical plan.
You’ll find specific prices, ideal times to go, and simple transport tips, so you can enjoy more glow and less guesswork.
My Son
Step into a forested valley of ancient brick towers at My Son Sanctuary, once the heart of the Champa era. Go early (first departures around 7–8 am) for cooler air. Half-day guided tours run $25–$45, including hotel pickup and water; DIY taxi from Hoi An takes ~1 hour each way. Allow 2 hours on-site for ruins, stone carvings, and viewpoints.
Basket Boats
Glide through the Nipa palm groves in a round bamboo boat, often paired with a short fishing demo. Morning and late-afternoon slots are best (softer sun, calmer breezes). Small-group trips cost $12–$20, or $30–$40 when bundled with a market visit and cooking lesson. Allow 2–3 hours door-to-door from Hoi An.
Old Town
Stroll the UNESCO-listed core after 4:30 pm when lanterns appear and the heat eases. Buy the Old Town ticket (~$5) to support conservation and access select historic houses and small museums. A 20–30 minute river boat ride costs $3–$6 per person; go just after dusk for reflections and photos.
Food Tour
Join a 5 pm walking food tour (~$39) to sample Hoi An essentials: white rose dumplings with shrimps, chicken bánh mì, tropical fruit desserts, and a riverside snack stop. Portions are generous—arrive hungry. Tours usually last 3.5–4 hours, finishing near the night market for extra browsing.
Vespa Ride
Cover more ground on a guided Vespa experience (7:30 am or 1 pm, 4–4.5 hours). Prices range $55–$85 including a driver, helmet, and a countryside loop to herb gardens and coconut groves, plus a sit-down local meal. It’s the most time-efficient way to pair Old Town scenes with rural backroads.
Lantern Craft
Make your own silk-covered lantern in a hands-on workshop. Sessions run 60–90 minutes and cost $6–$12, with all materials provided. Book late afternoon, then carry your creation into the night market—instant prop for photos and a lightweight souvenir.
Beach Time
Ride a bicycle 15–20 minutes or take a taxi ($3–$6) to An Bang Beach. Rent a sun lounger for $2–$4 and grab a simple seafood or veggie lunch for $3–$8. Mornings and late afternoons are the calmest; bring small cash for umbrellas and snacks.
Tailor Time
Hoi An is famous for fast, quality tailoring. Typical ranges: casual dresses $40–$90, shirts $20–$35, suits $120–$250, with fittings in 24–48 hours. Visit day 1 to place orders, fit on day 2, and collect on day 3. Bring inspiration photos and confirm fabric, stitching, and pickup time in writing.
Where To Stay
Luxury – The Grand Sunrise Palace
Modern rooms with balconies, large pool, spa, and kids’ club; a short drive to Old Town. Rooms $100–$250 depending on season.
Mid-range – Cozy Savvy Boutique Hotel
Walkable to lantern streets; rooftop pool, spa, and comfortable rooms. Rates from $80.
Budget – Nostalgia Hotel & Spa
Clean, friendly stay with pool, breakfast included, and easy access to the center. Private rooms from $40.
Getting Around
From Da Nang (DAD) airport to Hoi An takes 45–60 minutes. Private car: $15–$25; shuttle: $6–$9. In town, most sights are walkable or reachable by bicycle. Taxis/Grab for longer hops cost $2–$6. Carry small bills for boats, snacks, and workshops.
Smart Timing
Cooler hours: Early morning and after 4:30 pm.
Crowd hacks: My Son at opening; Golden Bridge right after the first cable car.
Weather plan: Keep one indoor backup (tailor fitting, lantern class, café) for sudden showers.
Conclusion
Hoi An rewards slow wanderers and curious eaters—lantern-lit nights, mellow beaches, and day trips that deliver big views. Which experience tops your list: brick-tower ruins, palm-grove boats, or tailoring the perfect outfit?
