HỘI AN
Hội An is a beautifully preserved Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a living museum of history, architecture, and culture.
The town’s unique heritage is reflected in its fusion of local and foreign influences, from Chinese temples and wooden shophouses to the iconic Japanese Bridge. It’s renowned for its tailoring and lantern-lit nights.
Most Popular Attractions
Hội An Ancient Town Core:
Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu – Chwah Kow): The iconic 17th-century bridge with a pagoda, a symbol of Hội An’s fusion of cultures.
Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation (Hội Quán Phúc Kiến – Hoy Kwahn Fook Kien): The largest and most ornate of the Chinese assembly halls, dedicated to the sea goddess Thien Hau.
Old House of Tan Ky (Nhà Cổ Tấn Ký – Nha Coh Tahn Kee): A perfectly preserved 18th-century merchant house showcasing a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural styles.
Old House of Phung Hung (Nhà Cổ Phùng Hưng – Nha Coh Foong Hoong): Another classic two-story wooden shophouse, built over 200 years ago.
Hội An Museum of Culture and History (Bảo tàng Văn hóa Lịch sử – Bao Tahng Vahn Hwah Lick Suh): Features artifacts documenting the town’s development and history as a trading port.
Museum of Sa Huỳnh Culture (Bảo tàng Sa Huỳnh – Bao Tahng Sah Hooynh): Exhibits on the pre-Hội An culture that flourished along the central coast.
Hội An Traditional Art Performance House (Nhà Hát Nghệ Thuật Cổ Truyền – Nha Haht Ngheh Thoo-uht Coh Truh-yen): Venue for traditional folk music and dance performances.
Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation (Hội Quán Quảng Đông – Hoy Kwahn Kwahng Dohng): Known for its intricate stone carvings and impressive dragons.
Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation (Hội Quán Triều Châu – Hoy Kwahn Tree-u Chaw): Famous for its stunning woodwork and ceramic mosaics.
Cam Pho Communal House (Đình Cẩm Phô – Dinh Cahm Foh): A small temple dedicated to the guardian deity of the village, located slightly outside the core.
Hội An Craft & Lifestyle:
Hội An Night Market (Chợ Đêm Hội An – Chur Dehm Hoy Ahn): A vibrant market on An Hội Islet, famous for its colorful silk lanterns and souvenirs.
Hội An Silk Village (Làng Lụa Hội An – Lahng Loo-uah Hoy Ahn): A working silk production center where you can see the lifecycle of the silkworm and traditional weaving.
Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Làng Gốm Thanh Hà – Lahng Goh-m Thang Hah): A village famous for its traditional pottery, located a short distance from the Ancient Town.
Kim Bồng Carpentry Village (Làng Mộc Kim Bồng – Lahng Mohk Kim Bohng): A historical village known for its master woodworkers who once built ships and houses for the Imperial Citadel in Huế.
Central Market (Chợ Hội An – Chur Hoy Ahn): A bustling local market offering everything from fresh produce and spices to local street food.
Hội An Province Surroundings & Nature:
An Bang Beach (Biển An Bàng – Bee-un Ahn Bahng): A relaxed, beautiful beach located just a few kilometers from the Ancient Town.
Cửa Đại Beach (Biển Cửa Đại – Bee-un Kuah Diah): Once a popular spot, now recovering from severe erosion, but still scenic.
Tra Que Vegetable Village (Làng Rau Trà Quế – Lahng Rah-oo Trah Kweh): A tranquil village where organic herbs and vegetables are grown using traditional methods.
Coconut Forest – Basket Boat Rides (Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu – Roong Yoo-ah Bai Mow): A unique experience navigating the water palm forest in a traditional round basket boat (thúng chai).
Cham Islands (Cù Lao Chàm – Koo Lah-o Chahm): A cluster of islands and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, popular for snorkeling, diving, and fresh seafood.
Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary (Thánh địa Mỹ Sơn – Thahnh Dee-ah Mee Sun): Although not in Hội An itself, this UNESCO site of abandoned Cham temples is a popular day trip.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Vietnamese Lantern-Making Class: Learn the delicate art of crafting Hoi An’s iconic silk lanterns. Many workshops offer hands-on lessons, and you get to keep your creation.
Go on a Basket Boat (Thúng Chai) Ride: Experience a thrilling and often comedic ride in a traditional circular basket boat through the coconut palm forests of the Cẩm Thanh (Cam Thanh) region.
Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu): Walk across this 16th-century architectural marvel that stands as a symbol of Hội An, blending Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles.
Cycle to the Rice Paddies and Local Villages: Rent a bicycle and escape the Ancient Town’s streets to explore the surrounding lush countryside, rice fields, and peaceful villages like Tra Que.
Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class: Head to a local market to shop for ingredients, then learn to prepare classic regional dishes like Cao Lầu (Hoi An’s signature noodle dish) and Bánh Xèo (savory Vietnamese pancakes).
Get Custom Clothing Tailored: Hội An is famous worldwide for its fast, high-quality tailoring. Visit one of the hundreds of shops to get custom suits, dresses, or shoes made in 24–48 hours.
Visit the My Son Sanctuary (Mỹ Sơn): Take a day trip to the impressive ruins of this ancient Champa Kingdom religious center, a UNESCO World Heritage site (pronounced Mee Son).
Stroll along An Bang Beach: Head 4 km from the town center to this relaxing stretch of coastline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
Go on a Street Food Tour: Join a guided walking tour to sample local delicacies like Bánh Mì Phượng (Phuong’s famous baguette sandwich), Hến Trộn (spicy baby clam salad), and White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao Vạc).
Attend a Traditional Music & Dance Show: Watch a performance at the Hội An Traditional Arts Performing House to see classic Vietnamese music, opera, and folk dances.
Take a Photography Workshop at Dawn: Capture the magical atmosphere of the Ancient Town’s quiet streets and markets as the sun rises, before the main tourist crowds arrive.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Essential: The Ancient Town is a pedestrian-only zone for most of the day, making walking the primary and most enjoyable way to explore. You’ll need tickets to enter some historical sites within the core.
Bicycles are Ideal: Hội An is flat, and cycling is an excellent way to cover slightly longer distances. Many hotels and guesthouses offer free or low-cost bicycle rentals, perfect for a trip to the beach or Tra Que Vegetable Village.
Taxis and Grab (Ride-Sharing): Traditional taxis and the ride-hailing app Grab (for both cars and motorbikes) are readily available outside the Ancient Town core for trips to the airport, Da Nang, or other long distances. Tip: Motorbike Grab rides are significantly cheaper.
Cyclos (Xích Lô): For a leisurely, traditional experience, hire a cyclo driver. They are a good option for short tours around the perimeter of the Ancient Town, especially in the evening. Always agree on the price before you start your ride.
From the Airport: The closest major airport is Da Nang International Airport (DAD). A private car transfer or pre-booked taxi/Grab is the easiest way to make the 45-minute to one-hour journey to Hội An.
Lantern Magic: The best time to experience Hội An is at night, especially on the 14th day of the lunar month, during the monthly Lantern Festival. On these nights, electric lights are dimmed, and thousands of colorful silk lanterns illuminate the streets and river.
The Ticket System: To help fund the preservation of the UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors are encouraged to purchase a Hội An Ancient Town Entrance Ticket. This single ticket (around $5.20 USD) grants access to five of the 22 historical and cultural attractions (museums, assembly halls, old houses).
Bargaining: When shopping in markets (like the Central Market) or for souvenirs, bargaining is common and expected. Start by offering about 50-70% of the initial asking price and negotiate politely. Do not bargain in fixed-price shops or restaurants.
River Activities: Head to the Thu Bồn River in the evening to release a small paper lantern onto the water—a beautiful, local tradition symbolizing good luck and peace (fee for the lantern is minimal).
The Food Culture: Be sure to try the three local specialties, all unique to Hội An: Cao Lầu (thick, dark noodles), Bánh Bao Vạc (White Rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà (chicken rice).
Hidden Gems:
- Phùng Hưng Old House (Nhà Cổ Phùng Hưng): A beautifully preserved 18th-century house that shows the blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural influences.
- Tấn Ký Old House (Nhà Cổ Tấn Ký): One of the most famous and well-preserved examples of a merchant’s house, often included on the town ticket.
- The Central Market: Visit in the early morning to see the local life, buy fresh produce, and get some of the cheapest and most authentic street food in the area.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village: A quiet, organic herb and vegetable farm where you can join farmers in their daily tasks and enjoy a meal with ultra-fresh ingredients.
Currency & Money: The local currency is the Vietnamese Đồng (VND). While large items (tailoring) might be quoted in USD, all transactions should be made in VND. ATMs are plentiful, and exchange rates are usually fair.
Top Restaurants
Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen [$2-$5] – Phát Âm: “Bánh Mì Cô Khanh” – A legendary, no-frills banh mi stall just outside the main Old Town, famous for its rich filling of pork, paté, egg, and homemade sauce. A quintessential Hoi An experience.
Bánh Mì Phượng [$2-$5] – Phát Âm: “Bánh Mì Phượng” – The most famous banh mi spot, endorsed by Anthony Bourdain. It’s often very crowded, but its variety of fillings and delicious bread make it a worthy stop right on the edge of the Ancient Town.
Cao Lầu Thanh [$3-$7] – Phát Âm: “Cao Lầu Thanh” – A small, local spot revered for one of the most traditional bowls of Cao Lầu, the signature Hoi An noodle dish, made with a secret process involving water from a local well.
Bale Well Restaurant [$5-$10] – A backyard local eatery offering a set menu experience of DIY spring rolls, Bánh Xèo (sizzling pancakes), and Nem Lụi (grilled pork skewers) with fresh herbs. Very interactive and authentic.
White Rose Restaurant [$5-$10] – The only place to get the famous Bánh Bao Vạc (White Rose dumplings), as the secret recipe is passed down through generations of one family who supplies most of the town. A must-try local specialty.
Quán Cao Lầu Bá Lễ [$3-$7] – A small, local street-side stall popular for an affordable and authentic bowl of Cao Lầu, often favored by locals for its traditional flavor.
Cơm Gà Bà Buội [$5-$10] – Phát Âm: “Cơm Gà Bà Buội” – A long-standing, very famous establishment specializing in Cơm Gà (Hoi An Chicken Rice), serving shredded chicken with turmeric-infused rice and a simple, flavorful broth.
Quán Bánh Đập Bà Già [$3-$7] – Phát Âm: “Bánh Đập Bà Già” – A rustic, riverside spot known for Bánh Đập (Smashing Rice Paper) served with Hến Xào (tiny stir-fried clams) and a pungent dipping sauce. A true local’s choice.
Mì Quảng Cô Chín [$3-$7] – Phát Âm: “Mì Quảng Cô Chín” – A popular, non-fancy spot for Mì Quảng, a delicious Quang Nam-style noodle dish with a rich, shallow broth, meat, and a crispy sesame cracker.
Bánh Xèo Sông Hoài [$5-$10] – A simple stall by the Hoài River (the local name for the Thu Bồn River section in town) renowned for its perfect crispy Bánh Xèo (sizzling pancakes) that you wrap in rice paper and herbs.
Chè Cô Hạnh [$2-$5] – A well-known small vendor for Chè, a variety of sweet soups and desserts, often available in the late afternoon and evening.
Tiệm Bánh Mì Phố Cổ [$2-$5] – A lesser-known street stall offering a quality, traditional banh mi often praised for its excellent paté and crispy baguette, providing a good alternative to the two famous spots.
Cháo Nghêu Cô Gió [$3-$7] – A spot specializing in Cháo Nghêu (clam porridge), a flavorful and comforting rice porridge popular with locals, located slightly off the main Ancient Town hub.
Bánh Bèo Bà Mỹ [$3-$7] – A local establishment known for serving Bánh Bèo (steamed rice cakes) and Bánh Cuốn (steamed rice rolls) with traditional toppings and fish sauce.
Morning Glory Original [$10-$20] – Run by the renowned local chef Ms. Vy, this popular restaurant serves elevated versions of Hoi An’s street food and traditional dishes in a beautiful, historic setting with an open kitchen.
Miss Ly Cafe [$10-$20] – A charming, long-standing family-run restaurant near the Fujian Assembly Hall, offering reliable and authentic Hoi An specialties like Cao Lầu and White Rose dumplings.
Cơm Linh [$8-$15] – A favorite with locals and expats for its delicious, authentic local dishes like Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice) and various Central Vietnamese noodles in a welcoming, cozy environment.
Nu Eatery [$15-$25] – A hidden gem tucked away in an alley, offering a short but creative menu of traditional Vietnamese dishes with a modern, tapas-style twist. Reservations are highly recommended.
Vy’s Market Restaurant [$10-$20] – A spacious venue by the river, designed to look like a bustling local food market, serving an extensive menu of Vietnamese dishes from different regions in a clean, comprehensive setting.
Little Faifo Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located in a beautiful traditional house, this spot offers a cultural dining experience with well-executed Central Vietnamese and Hoi An specialties.
Secret Garden Hoi An [$15-$25] – Tucked away in a quiet alley, this restaurant offers a lovely, tranquil dining experience with a menu of local dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
Red Gahn [$10-$20] – A highly-rated restaurant offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and excellent service.
Hai Cafe Restaurant & BBQ Courtyard [$10-$20] – Known for its atmospheric open-air courtyard and excellent grilled meats and fresh seafood, making it a great spot for a casual yet delicious dinner.
Ganesh Indian Restaurant [$10-$20] – A popular choice for a break from Vietnamese food, offering well-executed, authentic North Indian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Anabas Local & Grilled Dishes [$8-$15] – A local favorite slightly off the main tourist drag, known for its focus on Central Vietnamese grilled specialties and other local comfort food.
Tâm Tình [$10-$20] – A cozy, local eatery serving up classic Vietnamese homestyle cooking with a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal.
Bánh Xèo Cô Bảy [$5-$10] – A simple, local stall specializing in excellent Bánh Xèo (savory pancakes) and other street food favorites, popular with Vietnamese tourists and locals.
Vinh Hung Restaurant [$8-$15] – Located right on the main street, this spot is popular for its local specialties, including excellent Cao Lầu and Com Ga, in a classic, Old Town setting.
Mango Mango [$20-$40] – Located across the river, this vibrant spot offers contemporary Vietnamese cuisine with a creative, often tropical, twist, and has a great view of the Old Town lights.
The Sea Shell by Nu Eatery [$15-$25] – The sister restaurant to Nu Eatery, offering a tapas-style menu with creative fusion dishes, perfect for sharing and trying multiple flavors.
The Hoianian – Wine Bar & Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers a blend of traditional Vietnamese and international dishes, with a great selection of wines in a stylish setting.
Aubergine49 Restaurant [$25-$50] – Slightly outside the Ancient Town, this is a refined European and Eurasian fusion restaurant with an extensive wine list and a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Red Bean Restaurant [$30-$50] – Offers a modern and luxurious take on classic Vietnamese cuisine, providing a casual fine dining experience within the La Siesta Hoi An Resort (a short drive/walk).
The Temple restaurant [$20-$40] – Offers a modern Vietnamese menu with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients in a tranquil, elegantly designed space.
MÙA [$40-$70] – Phát Âm: “Mùa” – Meaning “Seasons,” this restaurant focuses on modern, seasonally-inspired Vietnamese cuisine using local and organic produce from nearby Tra Que village, offering a refined dining experience.
tok. [$50-$80] – A modern bistro (short drive from Old Town) offering highly creative and contemporary fusion dishes in a sleek, elegant setting, known for its innovative approach to local ingredients.
Mai Mai [$30-$60] – A well-regarded fine dining spot that artfully blends traditional Vietnamese ingredients with refined cooking techniques for a sophisticated menu.
Clément Garden [$30-$50] – Located in a beautiful garden setting, this restaurant offers upscale dining with a mix of Vietnamese and French-inspired cuisine.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Market Bar – Market Terrace: This hidden gem is a rooftop bar located on the first floor of the cloth market, right in the heart of the Old Town (Phố Cổ). It offers a calm, sophisticated escape with lovely views of the Thu Bồn River, known for its superb cocktail and gin selection, including a must-try Pho-infused gin.
Mê Hội An Rooftop Bar: Found in a central location within the Ancient Town, this bar is a must-visit for its stunning views, creative cocktails (like “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”), and a relaxed vibe, often featuring a popular 1+1 Happy Hour.
Mango Mango: A vibrant, riverside lounge and restaurant on An Hội Islet (across the bridge from the Old Town), known for its inventive, fruit-forward cocktails, especially those using fresh mango. Arrive early for the best balcony seats overlooking the river.
White Marble Wine Bar: Housed in a beautifully preserved 17th-century heritage building in the Ancient Town (Phố Cổ), this elegant spot is a haven for wine lovers, offering a selection of global wines by the glass, spirits, and quality charcuterie/cheese platters.
Q Bar: A trendy and upmarket cocktail bar in the Ancient Town with an extensive list of unique and high-quality cocktails, drawing a stylish crowd. Its atmosphere is sophisticated with a background of electric music.
The Deck Hoi An: Located on the rooftop of the Royal Hội An hotel, offering sweeping, panoramic views of the Ancient Town and the Thu Bồn River. This luxurious spot is perfect for a sunset cocktail with an elegant pool nearby.
Kofi Hoi An Cocktail Bar: Tucked away in a small alley off Nguyễn Thái Học street in the Ancient Town, this cozy, artistic bar is known for its creative drinks, vintage decor, and often hosts live music and DJ sets.
Whale Bar at Mango Mango: Situated on the second floor of the Mango Mango restaurant on An Hội Islet, this bar provides stunning river views and a vibrant yet relaxed tropical atmosphere with excellent cocktails.
Hoi An T/T Cocktail Bar, Coffee & Antiques: A unique and captivating spot within the Ancient Town that combines a cocktail bar with a coffee house and an antique shop, offering a truly distinctive atmosphere.
Mộng Nguyệt (Secret Bar): A hidden gem in the heart of the Old Town, located above a coffee shop and accessed through a quaint courtyard, offering a cozy and discreet escape from the bustling streets.
Mezcal Coctelería: Focused on the smoky Mexican spirit, this bar near the Ancient Town offers a unique selection of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails, including creative twists on classics like the Tamarind Margarita.
Rua Coffee & Bar: A relaxed spot close to the Old Town that blends a coffee shop atmosphere with a bar, perfect for a chill evening drink.
Why Not Club Bar Hoi An: Located on An Hội Islet across the bridge, this is one of the most bustling and energetic party spots in the area, known for its lively dance floor, loud music (EDM, house), and open hours until the early morning.
Tiger Tiger Bar: A classic, high-energy backpacker bar located on An Hội Islet on Nguyễn Phúc Chu street, famous for its energetic vibe, loud music, and excellent drink specials that cater to a party crowd.
Hair Of The Dog Bar Hội An: A popular choice for those seeking a vibrant, youthful club atmosphere, located just outside the main Ancient Town area. It features eye-catching neon lights, high-energy EDM and hip-hop music, and is open late.
New 92 Club: Dubbed an “entertainment sanctuary” for Hoi An’s youth, this venue near the Old Town has a proper nightclub design with a high-quality sound and lighting system, dynamic stage effects, and live DJs.
Dive Bar: Located centrally on Nguyễn Thái Học street in the Ancient Town, this lively spot is popular with backpackers and expats. Run by the local diving center, it has a relaxed “dive” theme, pool tables, and frequently hosts live music (blues, reggae, punk rock).
The Shamrock Irish Pub Hoi An: An authentic Irish-style pub on An Hội Islet by the Thu Bồn River, offering a warm, welcoming environment with a wide selection of beers and whiskeys. It is known for a lively crowd, live music, and sports screenings.
3 Dragons Sports Bar: Hội An’s first dedicated sports bar, located on Phan Bội Châu street, featuring multiple large-screen TVs and a projection screen for major global sporting events, plus a great riverside area for a relaxed drink.
Before & Now Bar: A long-standing, vibrant bar and pub in the Ancient Town (Phố Cổ) with retro-chic decor and a rooftop terrace. It remains a popular nightlife venue, attracting a mixed crowd with its lively atmosphere.
Chăm Chỉ Club: While not a traditional dance club, this multi-functional, 24/7 community space on Cửa Đại road offers an open, artistic hub by the Thu Bồn River. It hosts events, workshops, and parties, focusing on connection and art in a unique, non-commercial setting.
Serendipity Hostel and Nightclub: A bar combined with a hostel near the Old Town, known for its friendly, youthful atmosphere and becoming especially lively on DJ nights (often Wednesdays and Sundays) with a good mix of travelers.
Kukun Hoi An: One of the most vibrant An Bang Beach (a short ride from the Old Town) party spots, featuring a large, open dance floor, techno and electronic music from local and international DJs, and an atmosphere that lasts until the early morning.
Shore Club An Bàng Beach: A stylish and upscale beach club on An Bàng Beach, offering a relaxed yet fashionable atmosphere with cabanas, sun loungers, and great cocktails and food right on the sand.
The DeckHouse An Bang Beach: Located right on An Bàng Beach, this stylish venue has a laid-back, modern vibe perfect for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails while watching the sunset or listening to live acoustic music.