3 Days in Hoi An: The Perfect Hoi An Itinerary

Hoi An, a city located in central Vietnam, is known for its well-preserved ancient town that tells a story of Vietnam’s rich culture, architecture, and traditions. Moreover, it boasts of stunning beaches, lush green rice paddies, and an array of mouth-watering Vietnamese cuisine. With all these offerings, it’s no surprise that Hoi An is a must-visit destination in Vietnam.

In this blog post, we’ll share with you the perfect itinerary for spending three days in Hoi An. We’ll cover everything from how to get there, the best time to visit, getting around the city, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat. So, let’s get started!

How to get to Hoi An?

Hoi An has no airport; the nearest airports are Da Nang International Airport (DAD) and Chu Lai International Airport, both of which are about 30 kilometers away. Da Nang International Airport is the more popular choice as it’s well-connected to various parts of Vietnam and the world.

From Da Nang Airport, you can take a taxi directly to Hoi An or rent a motorbike and ride to the city. Alternatively, you can catch a public bus from Da Nang Bus Station to Hoi An, which takes about one hour and costs approximately 25,000 VND ($1.09).

What is the best month to visit Hoi An?

The best time to visit Hoi An is between February and May, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The temperature during these months ranges from 24°C to 32°C, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s attractions.

June to August are also good months to visit Hoi An, but expect high humidity levels and occasional rainfall. September to January is considered the wet season, with heavy rains and occasional typhoons. It’s best to avoid this period as many attractions may be closed due to flooding.

How to Get Around Hoi An?

Hoi An is a charming ancient town in Vietnam known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Here are some ways to get around Hoi An:

1. Walking: Hoi An’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. The town is pedestrian-friendly, and most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and soak in the town’s unique ambiance.

2. Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is a popular and enjoyable way to get around Hoi An. Many hotels and guesthouses offer bicycle rentals, and there are also numerous rental shops in town. Cycling allows you to explore the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions at your own pace.

3. Motorbike Rental: If you’re comfortable riding a motorbike, you can rent one to explore Hoi An and its surrounding areas. However, be cautious as traffic can be busy, and it’s important to follow local traffic rules. Always wear a helmet and ensure you have the necessary licenses and insurance.

4. Taxi: Taxis are available in Hoi An, but they are not as common as in larger cities. You can find taxis at designated taxi stands or book them through ride-hailing apps. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare or ensure the meter is used before starting your journey.

5. Boat: Hoi An is situated along the Thu Bon River, and taking a boat ride can be a unique way to explore the area. You can hire a boat for a river cruise or to visit nearby islands like Cham Island.

Remember to plan your routes in advance and consider the traffic conditions, especially during peak tourist hours. Hoi An’s narrow streets can get crowded, so it’s important to be mindful of pedestrians and other vehicles while getting around.

How many days should you travel to Hoi An?

The number of days you should spend in Hoi An depends on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do. However, a typical recommendation is to spend at least 2-3 days in Hoi An to fully experience its charm and explore its attractions.

Hoi An is known for its well-preserved ancient town, beautiful lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how many days to allocate for your visit:

1. Exploring the Ancient Town: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a must-visit. It’s filled with historic buildings, temples, and traditional houses. You’ll want to allocate enough time to wander through the narrow streets, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, explore the local markets, and soak in the unique atmosphere.

2. Tailor-Made Clothing: Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors who can create custom-made clothing. If you’re interested in getting clothes tailored, you’ll need to allocate additional time for fittings and adjustments.

3. Nearby Attractions: Hoi An is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions such as the beautiful An Bang Beach, the Marble Mountains, and the My Son Sanctuary. If you plan to visit these places, you may want to add extra days to your itinerary.

4. Food and Culinary Experiences: Hoi An is renowned for its delicious local cuisine. Take the time to savor the local specialties, join a cooking class, or explore the vibrant food markets.

Ultimately, the ideal duration for your visit to Hoi An will depend on your interests and the pace at which you prefer to travel. Whether you choose to stay for a few days or extend your visit, Hoi An offers a unique and memorable experience.

3 Days in Hoi An: The Perfect Hoi An Itinerary

Here’s our recommended itinerary for spending 3 days in Hoi An:

Day 1: Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is the heart of the city with well-preserved buildings, temples, pagodas, and museums. On your first day in Hoi An, start by exploring the ancient town. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• Hoi An Japanese Covered Bridge: Built in the 16th century, the Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the most iconic symbols of Hoi An. This bridge connects the Japanese and Chinese communities and is adorned with intricate carvings and statues.
• Quan Cong Temple: Quan Cong Temple is a Taoist temple located in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town. The temple was built in 1653 and is dedicated to the Chinese general Quan Cong.
• Museum of Trade Ceramics: The Museum of Trade Ceramics showcases Hoi An’s rich history as a major trading port during the 15th to 18th centuries. You’ll find an impressive collection of ceramics from Vietnam, China, Japan, and Thailand.
• Lantern Making Workshop: Hoi An is famous for its lanterns, which add a charming ambiance to the ancient town at night. Take a lantern-making workshop and learn how to make your own lantern.

Day 2: Beach and Countryside

On your second day in Hoi An, explore the surrounding countryside and beaches. Here are some must-visit places:

• An Bang Beach: An Bang Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hoi An and is located just a few kilometers from the ancient town. Spend the morning sunbathing, swimming or surfing on this stunning beach.
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Tra Que Vegetable Village is a small farming community located just outside Hoi An. Here, you’ll see how traditional Vietnamese farmers cultivate their crops and even participate in the farming activities. Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from the village.
• Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Thanh Ha Pottery Village is another village located just outside Hoi An. Here, you can see how local artisans create intricate pottery using traditional methods passed down from generation to generation.

Day 3: Visit My Son Sanctuary and Night Market

On your last day in Hoi An, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son Sanctuary, and finish off with a visit to Hoi An’s night market.

• My Son Sanctuary: My Son Sanctuary was once the religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex consists of over 70 temples and towers built between the 4th and 14th centuries.
• Hoi An Night Market: Hoi An Night Market is a vibrant and bustling market that comes alive at night. You’ll find an array of street food, souvenirs, and other interesting items. Don’t forget to try some of Hoi An’s famous dishes like Cao Lau and Banh Mi.

Other 3-day itineraries in Hoi An

If you have three days to spend in Hoi An, Vietnam, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1:
– Morning: Start your day by exploring the Ancient Town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the well-preserved architecture, and visit iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation.
– Afternoon: Take a break from the heat and visit one of Hoi An’s many tailor shops. Get measured for custom-made clothing or browse through ready-to-wear items. Hoi An is famous for its tailoring services, so it’s a great opportunity to get unique pieces made.
– Evening: Experience the magical atmosphere of Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. Take a stroll along the Thu Bon River and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the riverside restaurants. Don’t forget to release a lantern into the river for good luck.

Day 2:
– Morning: Join a cooking class to learn about Vietnamese cuisine. Visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients and then prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of a skilled chef. Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch.
– Afternoon: Rent a bicycle or take a boat ride to explore the countryside surrounding Hoi An. Visit nearby villages, rice paddies, and local craft workshops. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the rural charm of the region.
– Evening: Attend a traditional Vietnamese music or dance performance. Hoi An has several venues that offer cultural shows, providing insight into the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Day 3:
– Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient ruins of the Champa Kingdom and learn about the region’s history and architecture.
– Afternoon: Relax and unwind at one of Hoi An’s beautiful beaches. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are popular choices. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, or indulge in water sports activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
– Evening: Wrap up your Hoi An experience with a sunset boat ride along the Thu Bon River. Watch the sky change colors as you cruise past picturesque landscapes. End the day with a farewell dinner, savoring the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Remember to check the opening hours and availability of attractions and activities in advance. Hoi An is a charming town with plenty to offer, and this itinerary aims to provide a well-rounded experience during your three-day visit.

Where to Stay in Hoi An

Hoi An has plenty of accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. If you want to stay close to the ancient town area, we recommend staying in one of the many homestays or boutique hotels.

Some popular places to stay in Hoi An include:

• Hoi An Ancient Town Homestay
• Little Riverside Hoi An – A Luxury Hotel & Spa
• Vinh Hung Library Hotel
• Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort

Where to Eat in Hoi An

Hoi An is famous for its delicious cuisine, which draws inspiration from Chinese, Japanese, and French influences. Some must-try dishes include:

• Cao Lau – a local noodle dish made with pork, herbs, and rice noodles
• Banh Mi – a crusty baguette filled with various fillings such as pork, pate, and vegetables
• Mi Quang – a noodle dish made with shrimp, pork, and quail eggs

Here are some popular restaurants in Hoi An:

• Red Bean Restaurant
• Bale Well
• Morning Glory
• Streets Restaurant Cafe

FAQs

Is Hoi An worth visiting?

Absolutely! Hoi An is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient town to the beaches, there’s something for everyone in Hoi An.

How much does it cost to visit Hoi An?

The cost of visiting Hoi An depends on your travel style and preferences. On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $20-$30 per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $50-$100 per day.

What currency is used in Hoi An?

The official currency in Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong (VND). However, many shops and restaurants in Hoi An also accept US dollars.

Conclusion

There you have it, a perfect itinerary for spending three days in Hoi An. From exploring the ancient town to relaxing on the beach and indulging in delicious Vietnamese cuisine, Hoi An has so much to offer. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty of this charming city!