Hoi An on a Budget: 5-Day Adventure

Discover ancient charm and modern thrills without breaking the bank in Hoi An, Vietnam.

21 June 2023

Hoi An, Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautifully preserved old town. The city offers a variety of affordable activities, including walking tours of the historic district, visiting local markets and temples, and exploring the nearby countryside by bicycle. With budget-friendly accommodation options available, a trip to Hoi An can be a culturally immersive experience without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Hoi An

  • Check in at Ha An Hotel, a charming budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Hoi An
  • Wander around the ancient town's alleyways, admiring the traditional buildings and colorful lanterns
  • Visit the Japanese Bridge, an iconic symbol of Hoi An
  • Try local specialties like cao lau and banh mi at Mr. Son’s, a street-side eatery with a cult following
  • Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, a great way to see the town's architecture from a different perspective
  • End the day with a drink at Mango Rooms, a funky restaurant and bar with a lively atmosphere
Day 2

Biking and Beaches

  • Rent a bike from your hotel and explore the countryside around Hoi An, pedaling through rice paddies, vegetable gardens and rural villages
  • Stop at An Bang Beach, a laid-back and less crowded alternative to Hoi An's main beach
  • Rent a beach umbrella and enjoy the sun and sea, or try surfing, paddleboarding or kayaking
  • Have lunch at Under The Coconut Tree, a cute and eco-friendly beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and vegetarian options
  • Visit the nearby Bay Mau coconut forest, where you can take a boat ride along the coconut palm-lined canals
  • Back in town, have dinner at Bale Well, a local institution famous for its DIY spring rolls and delicious dipping sauce
Day 3

Lanterns and Tailors

  • Wake up early and visit the Hoi An Morning Market, where locals buy fresh produce, meat and fish
  • Take a lantern-making class at one of Hoi An's many workshops, learning the intricate process of shaping bamboo frames and silk covers
  • Have lunch at Bánh Mì Phuong, a legendary sandwich shop where Anthony Bourdain dined on his visit to Hoi An
  • Spend the afternoon shopping for handmade clothes, shoes and accessories at Hoi An's famous tailors
  • Get measured and fitted for a custom outfit that will be ready in 24 hours
  • Have a romantic dinner at Cargo Club, a renovated French colonial house-turned-restaurant with delicious food and live music
Day 4

My Son Sanctuary

  • Join a day trip to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Hindu temples and tombs, surrounded by lush jungle and a serene river
  • Learn about the history and culture of the Champa people, who settled in Central Vietnam from the 4th to the 13th century
  • Have lunch at a local restaurant in the nearby village of Thanh Ha, specializing in traditional noodle soups and rice dishes
  • Back in Hoi An, unwind with a massage or spa treatment at Lemongrass Spa, one of the town's best wellness centers
  • Have dinner at Morning Glory, an award-winning restaurant serving homestyle Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist
Day 5

Farewell Hoi An

  • Take a cooking class at Red Bridge Cooking School, learning to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes and visiting the local market to buy ingredients
  • Enjoy a farewell lunch with your classmates, savoring the fruits of your labor while sharing memories and tips
  • Say goodbye to the ancient town of Hoi An, packing your bags and checking out of Ha An Hotel
  • Stop at Ms. Vy's Market Restaurant, a vibrant and eclectic food court showcasing street food from all over Vietnam
  • Board your plane or bus back home, feeling enriched and inspired by the colors, flavors and culture of Hoi An.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hoi An by plane is to fly into Da Nang International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or private car to Hoi An, which is about a 30-minute drive.

Car

Renting a car is a great way to explore the surrounding areas of Hoi An. There are several car rental companies in both Da Nang and Hoi An that offer a range of vehicles for rent.

Train

Although there is no direct train to Hoi An, the closest train station is in Da Nang. From there, you can take a taxi or private car to Hoi An, which is about a 30-minute drive.

Boat

If you're coming from nearby islands, you can take a boat to Hoi An via the Cua Dai Port. From there, you can take a taxi or private car to Hoi An.

Bus

Taking a bus from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi is a popular option for getting to Hoi An. You can find several bus companies that offer both day and overnight buses to Hoi An.

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