Overview of Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is an ancient urban area located entirely in the heart of Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City. It was once a busy international trading port, a meeting place for Japanese, Chinese and Western merchant ships from the 15th to the 19th century. This unique architectural complex includes hundreds of townhouses, clan churches, assembly halls, and especially the Covered Bridge, most of which are preserved intact in a traditional architectural style combining Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site World Cultural Heritage in 1999, thanks to its unique historical and architectural value, is a living testament to a rare preserved traditional Southeast Asian trading port. This place is not only a historical relic but also a leading cultural and culinary tourism center, where visitors can enjoy the romantic space of lanterns, participate in folk games and explore the richness of local cuisine.

Outstanding attractions in Hoi An Ancient Town

Covered Bridge

Pagoda Bridge

As the most famous architectural symbol of Hoi An, Chua Cau (also known as Japanese Bridge) is an ancient covered bridge spanning a small creek, built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants. The temple's architecture is a harmonious combination of Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese styles. Visitors can easily find this relic right in the center of the Old Town, Hoi An Ward, City. Da Nang. Covered Bridge is an indispensable "check-in" point and a place to worship Northern Emperor Tran Vo.

Fujian Assembly Hall

Fujian Assembly Hall

Built in 1697, Fujian Assembly Hall is the largest and most beautiful building in the Old Town, located right in the center of Hoi An Ward, City. Da Nang. This is a community meeting place for the Fujian Chinese community, worshiping Thien Hau Thanh Mau (protectorate goddess of the sea). The project makes a strong impression with its magnificent Tam Quan gate, large garden and sophisticated wood carvings, showing the wealth and prestige of the Chinese community.

Tan Ky Ancient House

Tan Ky Ancient House

Tan Ky Ancient House is one of the oldest and most beautiful ancient houses in Hoi An, located in the center of Hoi An Ward, City. Da Nang. Built in the 18th century, the house is a typical example of the traditional residential architecture of Vietnamese merchants. The house retains its ancient interior, showing a harmonious combination of three architectural styles: Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese. Up to now, the house is still home to 7 generations of the family.

Quang Trieu Assembly Hall

Quang Assembly Hall Trieu

Quang Trieu Assembly Hall (also known as Cantonese Assembly Hall) is also located in the central area of Hoi An Ward, City. Da Nang. The building has splendid architecture, featuring stone details and ceramic dragon statues. The Assembly Hall worships Thien Hau Thanh Mau, Quan Cong and Tien Hien, and regularly organizes traditional ceremonies of the Cantonese Chinese community.

Tran Clan Church

Tran Clan Church

Tran Clan Church is a unique ancient architectural work, built in 1802. The work represents the architectural interference between traditional Vietnamese style and the influence of Chinese residential architecture. The church is not only a place to worship ancestors but also a place to preserve traditional cultural features of the Tran family. The project is located in the Old Quarter area, Hoi An Ward, City. Da Nang.

Chaozhou Assembly Hall

Chaozhou Assembly Hall

Chaozhou Assembly Hall is a place for cultural and religious activities of the Chaozhou Chinese community, located in the Old Quarter area, Hoi An Ward, City. Da Nang. The clubhouse is famous for its intricate wood carvings on the rafters and the unique structure of its forecourt. This is the place to worship Phuc Ba General Ma Vien - who was instrumental in suppressing the enemy and protecting fishermen.

Here are suggestions for other attractions in Hoi An Ancient Town:

  • Hoi An Folk Culture Museum: A place to display artifacts about the life, customs, and traditional arts of local people.

  • Hoi An Handicraft Workshop: Visitors can watch the process of making lanterns, casting ceramics and shop for handicraft products.

  • Lantern Street and Night Market: A vibrant shopping and culinary experience area in the evening.

Beautiful time to travel most

The most ideal time to visit Hoi An Ancient Town is during the Dry season, which lasts from February to the end of August. During this period, the weather in this area is often mildly sunny, with little rain, very convenient for walking to explore the old streets, visiting relics and cycling to neighboring craft villages. In particular, traveling in February and March is the most beautiful, when the air is still cool and pleasant, making it easy for visitors to fully enjoy the old town space.

Besides the weather factor, tourists should prioritize visiting Hoi An on the Full Moon Day of every month (Lunar Calendar). On the night of the Full Moon, the Old Town will turn off all electric lights and light thousands of traditional lanterns, creating the most romantic and magical scene. On the contrary, the Rainy season (September to January next year) can cause mild flooding, but if you love silence and want to take impressive reflection photos, this is also a unique experience.

Travel information

By air

Da Nang International Airport (DAD)

Da Nang International Airport (DAD)

  • Popular flight route: Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Da Nang (DAD) – Flight time is about 1.5 hours. Hanoi (HAN) to Da Nang (DAD) – Flight time is about 1 hour 20 minutes.

  • Operating airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, Pacific Airlines and many international airlines.

  • Arrival airport: Da Nang International Airport (DAD), located in Hoa Thuan Tay Ward, about 30 - 35 km from Hoi An Ancient Town.

  • Transportation from the airport to Hoi An Ancient Town: Taxi, technology car, airport bus (shuttle bus), or private rental car.

  • Note:

    • DAD Airport is the only destination for tourists who want to go to Hoi An Ancient Town by air.

    • After landing, visitors have to travel about 45 minutes - 1 hour more to get to Hoi An Ancient Town.

    • Reference ticket price (excluding taxes, fees): Ho Chi Minh City to and from Da Nang: about 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 VND/way (general).

By road

Popular route:

  • From Da Nang center (Hai Chau Ward) to Hoi An Ancient Town: About 30 km, travel time 45 minutes - 1 hour, going through coastal roads or National Highway 1A.

  • Reputable bus company: Taxi (Mai Linh, Tien Sa), public bus (route 1), private tourist car, technology car.

  • Reference ticket price:

    • Da Nang to and from Hoi An: Public bus: about 30,000 VND/trip; Taxi/Car: about 400,000 - 550,000 VND/trip.

Departing bus station:

  • In Da Nang: Da Nang Central Bus Station (belongs to Hoa Minh Ward).

  • In Hoi An: Hoi An Bus Station, near the Old Town area (in Hoi An Ward).

Note:

  • Hoi An Old Town does not allow large motor vehicles to move into the central area (limited by time frame). Visitors must park outside and walk.

  • There is no direct railway to the Old Town area.

Moving around Hoi An Ancient Town

  • Popular means of transportation:

    • Walking: The most ideal means of exploring the nooks and crannies and relics in the central area of the Old Town.

    • Bicycle: Very popular and environmentally friendly, suitable for moving in and out of the Old Town.

    • Cyclo: Traditional means of transportation, suitable for tourists who want to see the sights and experience the ancient atmosphere (usually concentrated in the central area of the Old Town).

  • Reference price for renting a bicycle/cyclo:

    • Bicycle rental: 20,000 - 40,000 VND/day.

    • Rent a cyclo: About 150,000 - 200,000 VND/hour (depending on the route).

  • Address for renting a car / tourist car (Moving from Da Nang to Hoi An):

    • Travellers should contact the Large travel and transportation companies in Da Nang (for example: DANAGO Tourism Joint Stock Company, Vietravel Tourism Company - Da Nang Branch) to rent 4–45-seat tourist cars to pick up from the airport or hotel to Hoi An Ancient Town.

Accommodation information

Luxury class (4–5 star)

Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery

Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery

Hotel Royal Hoi An - MGallery is located in the central area of ​​Hoi An Ward, with a modern style combining delicate Asian features. This is a high-class 5-star hotel with luxurious design, with an infinity pool overlooking the Hoai River. Convenient location, easy walk to the main attractions of the Old Town. According to Booking.com, room prices at Hotel Royal Hoi An usually range from about 2,800,000 - 5,000,000 VND/night depending on room type and peak season.

Anantara Hoi An Resort

Anantara Hoi An Resort is located right along the Hoai River, in Hoi An Ward, with a bold ancient French architectural style. dictionary. This 5-star resort offers luxurious, quiet rooms and suites, creating a feeling of absolute relaxation. Amenities include a spa, large swimming pool and fine dining restaurant. According to Agoda, Anantara Hoi An Resort room prices range from 3,500,000 - 6,000,000 VND/night depending on room type and time of booking. If you want more options for a high-end vacation in the Old Quarter area, here are some other luxury hotels worth considering:

  • Allegro Hoi An – Little Luxury Hotel & Spa – Hoi An Ward – Price about 1,800,000 – 3,000,000 VND/night.

  • Little Riverside Hoi An a Luxury Hotel & Spa – Hoi An Ward (riverside) – Price about 2,200,000 – 4,000,000 VND/night.

  • Hoi An Historic Hotel – Hoi An Ward – Price about 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 VND/night.

Resort (Resort, Villa)

Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa Hoi An

Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa Hoi An is located in the coastal area of Ngu Hanh Son Ward (Da Nang, near the border of Hoi An). This is a large 5-star resort, surrounded by green space and has its own beach. The villas and bungalows are delicately designed, suitable for long-term stays, separate from the noise of the Old Town. According to booking pages, room prices at Sunrise Premium Resort usually range from 2,800,000 - 5,500,000 VND/night, depending on room type and tourist season.

To diversify options for tourists who love nature and want to find a quiet space to relax nearby, you can refer to the following outstanding resorts:

  • Boutique Hoi An Resort – Hoi An Dong Ward (coastal) – Price from 1,800,000 – 3,500,000 VND/night.

  • Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa – Hoi An Dong Ward (coastal) – Price from 2,000,000 – 4,000,000 VND/night.

  • Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa – Hoi An Dong Ward (coastal) – Price from 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND/night.

Experience (Boutique Hotel, Homestay)

La An Central Boutique Villa

La An Central Boutique Villa is a 3-star villa/boutique hotel option located near Hoi An Ward, offering a quiet atmosphere and a swimming pool. The rooms are designed in a modern, cozy manner, suitable for travelers who want to experience a comfortable stay at a reasonable cost. According to booking sites, the average room price is about 700,000 - 950,000 VND/night for 2 adults.

Flame Flowers Homestay & Cafe

Flame Flowers Homestay & Cafe is located near the center of Hoi An Ward. The homestay has a cozy space and beautiful design, very suitable for tourists who want to experience the old town atmosphere and save money. Room prices range from 600,000 - 900,000 VND/night, depending on room type and included services.

For travelers who want to enjoy a cozy space, reasonable cost but still fully equipped, the following places to stay are interesting suggestions:

  • Little Town Villa - Hoi An Ward - Prices from 700,000 – 1,000,000 VND/night.

  • The Corner Homestay – Hoi An Ward – Price from 550,000 – 850,000 VND/night.

  • Hoi An Sunny Pool Villa – Ward Cam Ha (near the Old Quarter) – Price from 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND/night.

Festival cuisine and culture 

Famous restaurants

Ms. Vy's Market Restaurant 

Ms. Vy's Market Restaurant

Ms. Vy's Market Restaurant is located in the center of Hoi An Ward, famous for its open space, recreating a miniature food market. This restaurant specializes in serving traditional Vietnamese and Hoi An dishes, including live cooking stations. This is the ideal place to enjoy many different dishes in a unique space. Average price ranges from 200,000 - 400,000 VND/person.

Cargo Club Restaurant 

Cargo Club is located right along the Hoai River, in Hoi An Ward, famous for its desserts and quality coffee, in addition to its menu of international and Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant has a rooftop space with beautiful views overlooking the Old Town. Perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Average price 250,000 - 500,000 VND/person. Some other culinary places you can refer to in Hoi An Ancient Town:

  • Secret Garden Restaurant (Cam Ha Ward - neighboring): Nestled in a quiet garden, specializing in traditional Vietnamese dishes, with a romantic atmosphere.

  • The Mermaid Restaurant (Miss Ba) (Hoi An Ward): Famous famous for seafood dishes and local cuisine managed by a veteran chef.

  • Little Faifo Restaurant (Hoi An Ward): Serving Vietnamese fusion dishes in an ancient architectural space.

  • Roving ChillHouse Restaurant (Cam Ha Ward - neighboring): Coffee/dining shop located in the middle of rice fields, creating a unique space for taking photos and relaxing.

  • The Soul of Hoi An Restaurant (Hoi An Ward): Focuses on folk specialties of the Quang Nam region.

Local cuisine

Mi Quang

Quang noodles are a typical and unique dish of Hoi An. The noodles are made from rice flour, rich broth from shrimp, pork, or chicken, served with crispy grilled rice paper and roasted peanuts. This dish has a rich flavor, not filled with as much water as Mi Quang. Suggested address:

  • Ong Hai Quang Noodles Restaurant (Hoi An Ward): One of the oldest and most famous restaurants.

  • Quang Bich Noodles Restaurant (Hoi An Ward Central Market): A rustic, long-standing restaurant, recommended by many locals.

>Hoi An Chicken Rice

Chicken Rice is a simple dish that makes Hoi An culinary brand. Shredded boiled chicken mixed with onions and herbs, then served with rice cooked in chicken broth, creating a golden color and rich taste. Suggested address:

  • Ba Buoi Chicken Rice (Hoi An Ward): The oldest and most famous chicken rice brand.

  • Chicken Rice (Hoi An Ward): Popular restaurant, highly appreciated for the quality of chicken and sauce.

Banh Dap and Stir-Fried Mussels

Banh Dap is a combination of crispy grilled rice paper and soft moist rice cake, used to scoop up Stir-fried Mussels. Mussels (or Mussels) are stir-fried with onions and spices and eaten hot. This is a rustic dish, showing the rusticity of Hoi An cuisine. Suggested address:

  • Hen Islet area/riverside restaurants (Hoi An Ward/Cam Ha Ward): A place with many delicious Banh Dap and Stir-fried Mussel restaurants.

Experience Cuisine

>Mi Quang and Banh making class Xeo

This is a popular traditional cooking experience activity in Hoi An. Visitors will be taken to the local market to choose ingredients (central market of Hoi An Ward), then learn how to make and prepare typical dishes of the region such as Mi Quang, Cao Lau or Banh Xeo. This experience provides an in-depth knowledge of local cuisine.

Location: Professional cooking schools (e.g. Hoi An Cooking Class - not the same as Red Bridge mentioned previously) or classes at homestays.

Experience Dining at local homestays

Some tourism services in Cam Ha Ward (neighboring the Old Quarter) organize tours to experience dinner at homestays. Guests are invited to dine on traditional family dishes and chat with local people to understand more about Hoi An's daily customs and cuisine.

Culture & Festival Experience

Nguyen Tieu Festival and Lantern Release

Nguyen Tieu Festival and Lantern Release

Nguyen Tieu Festival (Full moon of the first lunar month) is one of the biggest festivals of Hoi An. On the night of the Full Moon, the Old Town turns off all electric lights, thousands of lanterns are lit and tourists participate in releasing flower lanterns on the Hoai River. The flower lantern releasing activity takes place every month (on the full moon night) and attracts a large number of tourists.

Ba Thien Hau Temple Festival

Held at Assembly Halls such as Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and Quang Trieu Assembly Hall on March 23 and May 13 of the lunar calendar. The festival aims to commemorate and pray for Lady Thien Hau, the protector of fishermen and merchants at sea. The festival includes traditional rituals and folk cultural activities. 

Other cultural festivals in Hoi An Ancient Town:

  • Night activities: Every day from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the central area of the Old Town prohibits vehicles and organizes folk games (such as Bai Choi) and street art performances.

  • Quan Cong Festival: Held at the Quang Trieu Assembly Hall on June 24 and May 13 of the lunar calendar, is a major festival of the Chinese community with palanquin processions, lion dances, and dragon dances.

  • Ceramic ancestors' death anniversary: Takes place at Thanh Ha Pottery Village (near the Old Quarter), where visitors can witness traditional rituals Traditional and handicraft activities of craft villages.

  • Cau Bong Festival: Held in vegetable villages (such as Tra Que Vegetable Village) on the 7th day of the first lunar month, a ritual to pray for good crops.

  • Traditional Boat Racing Festival: Takes place on the Hoai River on major, attractive occasions A large number of people and tourists participated in cheering.

Amusement area

Hoi An Theme Cultural Park 

Hoi An Theme Cultural Park

Large-scale amusement parks are often located in neighboring areas such as Hoi An Dong Ward or Quang Phu Ward. Visitors can choose entertainment complexes that combine culture and modern games, such as Hoi An Impression Theme Park, famous for its spectacular "Hoi An Memories" real-life show. This is a major artistic entertainment destination that attracts tourists in the evening.

An Bang Beach and Water Sports Activities

An Bang Beach (belonging to Hoi An Dong Ward), located about 5 km from the Old Town, is a famous beach with a youthful and vibrant atmosphere. This place has fun activities such as swimming, relaxing on the benches, and light water sports services such as rowing and windsurfing (depending on weather conditions), suitable for entertainment after visiting the old town.

Hoi An ancient town also has many attractive places to visit and experience suitable for both tourists and local people who want to relax and explore:

  • Tra Que Vegetable Village: An area to experience farming, grow organic vegetables and learn to make local traditional dishes (in neighboring Cam Ha Ward).

  • Mau Dich Ceramics Museum: An area displaying rare ceramic artifacts, helping visitors understand Hoi An's role in international trade.

  • Traditional art performance stages: Regularly organize opera performances, singing traditional songs in the center of the Old Town (Hoi An Ward).

  • Night Street and Street Food Area: The most vibrant space for shopping and enjoying local specialties in the evening (Hoi An Ward).

Suggested tour

Experience tour

Hoi An Tour to Explore Craft Villages & Cuisine 1 day

  • Itinerary: Depart from the Old Town → Lantern making class (Hoi An Ward) → Visit Phuoc Kieu Bronze Casting Village (nearby) → Experience local cuisine (Cao Lau, Banh Vac) → Visit Old Quarter Relics (Tan Ky Ancient House, Hoi Quan) → Return.

  • Features: Focus on exploring the unique craft culture, cuisine and architecture of the Old Quarter.

  • Transportation: Walking, Bicycle/Electric car.

  • Reference tour price: 500,000 - 750,000 VND/person (Including tickets to visit monuments and lunch).

  • Suggested organizers: Hoi An Local Tour, Danang Green Travel.

Adventure - discovery tour

1-day Village Exploration & Cooking Cycling Tour

  • Itinerary: Depart from the Old Town → Cycling through rice fields (Cam Ha Ward) → Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village (farming experience) → Participate in a Traditional Cooking Class (making Quang Noodles, Banh Xeo) → Lunch → Return.

  • Features: Combining physical activity (cycling) with a profound agricultural and culinary cultural experience, located in the vicinity of the Old Town.

  • Transportation: Bicycle + Tour guide.

  • Reference tour price: 700,000 – 1,100,000 VND/person.

  • Suggested organizer: Hoi An Bike Tours, cooking centers.

Half-day Tour to Explore Thanh Ha Pottery Village & Phuoc Kieu Bronze Casting

  • Itinerary: Old Town → Thanh Ha Pottery Village (pottery making experience) → Phuoc Kieu Bronze Casting Village (observe the bronze casting process) → Visit Mau Dich Ceramics Museum (Hoi An Ward) → Return to Old Town.

  • Transportation: Bicycle or Taxi/Government vehicle technology.

  • Reference tour price: 450,000 - 650,000 VND/person (excluding travel fees outside the Old Quarter).

  • Suggested organizer: Local travel companies.

Family tour

Hoi An Tour to Explore An Bang Heritage & Sea 1 day

An Bang Beach

  • Itinerary: Morning: Depart from Da Nang → Visit Old Town Relics (Covered Bridge, Ancient House) → Lunch. Afternoon: Relax at An Bang Beach (Hoi An Dong Ward) → Swimming and relaxing activities → Dinner → Return to Da Nang.

  • Features: Perfect combination of exploring historical culture and beach resort, suitable for families with young children.

  • Transportation: Tourist car with 16–29 seats.

  • Reference tour price: 750,000 - 1,100,000 VND/person (including sightseeing tickets and lunch).

  • Suggested organizer: Vietravel – Da Nang Branch, Danang Explore Travel.

Eco-tourism

Boat tour on Hoai River & Bay Mau coconut forest 1 day

  • Itinerary: Morning: Visit the Old Town relics. Afternoon: Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Hoi An Dong Ward) by basket boat → Experience crab fishing → Evening: Cruise on Hoai River and release lanterns (Hoi An Ward).

  • Transportation: Bicycle/Electric car + Basket boat.

  • Tour price Reference: 600,000 - 850,000 VND/person.

  • Suggested organizer: Companies operating basket boat tours.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping and souvenirs activities in Hoi An Ancient Town are extremely diverse, focusing mainly on handicraft products and tailoring services. The symbol of Hoi An is Lanterns, sold throughout the streets and Old Town Night Market. In addition, quick tailoring services (ao dai, vest) in just 24 hours along with handmade leather shoes and bags are also items that attract international tourists. These products demonstrate the craftsmanship and quintessence of traditional local crafts.

Ao Dai tailoring shop in Hoi An

In addition to handicrafts, Hoi An also has many culinary specialties suitable as gifts. Visitors can find spicy Hoi An chili sauce, traditional cakes such as Banh It la gai, or products from neighboring craft villages such as Thanh Ha ceramics. Shopping in this area not only brings back souvenirs but also a unique cultural experience.

Support information and other information

Emergency support information

If you encounter problems that require assistance regarding security, health or service quality, visitors can contact the authorities. These are accurate and active information focal points, concentrated in the central area of Da Nang:

  • Da Nang City Police: 0236 3822 300 - 80 Le Loi, Hai Chau Ward.

  • Da Nang Tourist Support Center: 0236 3550 111 - 108 Bach Dang, Hai Chau Ward.

  • Da Nang City Market Management Department (Market Management): 0236 3624 190 - 327 Le Thanh Nghi, Hoa Cuong Ward. In case of emergency, you can quickly contact the national switchboards: 113 (Police), 114 (Fire), 115 (Emergency).

Support information at Hoi An Ancient Town Heritage Area

Right in the central area of Hoi An Ward, visitors can find services and support following:

  • Hoi An Cultural Heritage Management Board:

    • Address: No. 161 Ly Thuong Kiet, Minh An Ward, City. Da Nang (Main office area)

    • Phone: 0235 3862 386

    • Function: Responsible for managing and preserving monuments, selling tickets to visit the old town, and managing security of the walking street.

  • Minh An Ward Medical Station:

    • Address: Located in the central area of the Old Quarter.

    • Function: Providing first aid and basic health care services for tourists and local people.

  • Tourist Information Counter:

    • Function: Usually located near the Covered Bridge or large Assembly Halls, provide maps, sightseeing instructions and support in hiring tour guides.

  • Sightseeing tickets: Tourists need to buy a full tour ticket to enter the relics inside (ancient houses, assembly halls, pagodas).

End the journey to discover Hoi An Ancient Town, where ancient architecture and traditional rhythm of life are still intact, Hope visitors have had profound cultural experiences. Wishing you keep wonderful memories of the sparkling space of lanterns and the hospitality of the people in Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City