Hoi An Adventure: Old Town, Beaches & Cuisine

Exploring the wonders of Hoi An, Vietnam on a budget never felt so rewarding.

21 June 2023

Hoi An is a charming ancient town in Central Vietnam that is budget-friendly and perfect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience. Enjoy the colourful lanterns, cheap street food and the beautiful yellow-walled buildings in the old town. You can also take a cycling tour through the rice fields and visit the stunning An Bang beach for free.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Streets of Hoi An

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Banh Mi Phuong, a local institution famous for its crispy sandwich.
  • Wander around Hoi An's Old Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with charming yellow buildings and quirky shops.
  • Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, and snap some photos of the floating lanterns on the Thu Bon River.
  • Barter for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market, where you can find everything from silk scarves to handcrafted pottery.
  • Indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Com Ga Ba Buoi, a humble restaurant that locals swear by for their mouth-watering chicken rice.
  • Cap off the day with a trip to the Ancient Town, where you can learn about Hoi An's rich history and enjoy a lantern-lit boat ride at night.
  • Note: This itinerary can also be adapted for a longer stay in Hoi An by adding more activities to each day.

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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