Discover the top 15 extremely interesting things you must try in Hoi An — from food, lantern nights, beaches to cultural workshops and hidden local experiences.
Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most charming destinations, known for its ancient beauty, flavorful cuisine, peaceful countryside, and unique cultural traditions. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore deeper, this small ancient town always offers something memorable. To help you make the most of your journey, here are the top 15 extremely interesting things you must try in Hoi An — a perfect guide for travelers who want a rich and authentic experience.
Top 15 Extremely Interesting Things You Must Try in Hoi An
Stroll Through the Hoi An Ancient Town
Coming to Hoi An, to feel the peaceful beauty, visitors should spend time walking around the Hoi An Ancient Town. The yellow walls, wooden houses, pagodas and small shops create a nostalgic atmosphere. The Japanese Bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall or the Chaozhou Assembly Hall are also places not to be missed.
Release Lanterns on Hoai River
Lantern releasing is one of the extremely interesting things you must try in Hoi An when you come. When the river lights up with hundreds of floating lanterns, it creates a peaceful and spectacular scene in Hoi An Ancient Town that tourists love.
Join a Lantern Making Workshop
Lanterns are a symbol of Hoi An culture. Join a lantern making class, you will learn how locals create these colorful lanterns and can even make one yourself as a meaningful souvenir. This experience not only helps you understand more about the traditional beauty but also brings a very relaxing and creative feeling.
👉Suggestion: Join a lantern making workshop at Lady Mai’s Lantern Making Workshop
Taste the Iconic Cao Lau Noodles
Cao Lau is a must-try dish when visiting Hoi An. With chewy noodles, sliced char siu, crispy grilled shrimp crackers and fresh herbs, the secret lies in the use of water from the ancient Ba Le well, creating a unique flavor for the dish.
Try Hoi An Rice Pancake (Banh Xeo)
Hoi An’s version of Banh Xeo is thinner, crispier, and full of flavor. Wrap the pancake in rice paper with herbs and dip it in a savory peanut sauce — absolutely delicious.
👉Visitors can try it at Passion Restaurant & Bar
Enjoy local dishes at Passion Restaurant & Bar: Best Food in Hoi An – Must-Try Local Dishes & Famous Specialties (2025)
Relax at An Bang Beach
Just 10 minutes from the Ancient Town, An Bang Beach offers soft white sand, gentle waves, beach bars, and fresh seafood. It’s the perfect place to chill, sunbathe, or enjoy a relaxing evening.
At An Bang Beach, in addition to fresh seafood, visitors can also enjoy local dishes. Banh Xeo, Cao Lau, Crispy Wonton,… are all cooked with local flavors.
Experience Coconut Boat Riding in Cam Thanh
Cam Thanh Coconut Village is famous for its traditional basket boat rides through the palm forest. You can watch rowing performances, try fishing tools, and enjoy the local lifestyle.
Enjoy Hoi An’s Café Culture
Hoi An has some of the most charming cafés in Vietnam. From vintage houses to garden cafés and riverside coffee shops, each offers a unique vibe. Don’t forget to try coconut coffee or Hoi An-style herbal drinks.
👉Visitors can try it at Cocobox or Hoi An Roastery
Get Tailored Clothing in 24 Hours
Hoi An is famous for its tailoring in Vietnam. Skilled tailors can create high-quality suits, dresses, handbags or shoes in just one day. This is one of the most popular experiences for tourists.
Explore Local Markets
Hoi An Central Market and the night markets are filled with fresh produce, spices, snacks, handmade crafts, and lanterns. It’s also the best place to try local food at very affordable prices.
Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Cooking classes in Hoi An are fun, interactive, and delicious. Most classes include a local market tour, a boat trip, and hands-on cooking of dishes like Cao Lau, Banh Xeo, or spring rolls.
Visit the Peaceful Tra Que Vegetable Village
Tra Que is known for organic herbs and farming traditions. You can join a farming session, learn how local villagers grow herbs, and enjoy a fresh farm-to-table meal.
Go Cycling Through the Countryside
Rent a bicycle and explore rice paddies, buffalo paths, and quiet villages. This peaceful ride lets you see a completely different side of Hoi An — natural, simple, and full of charm.
Experience Hoi An Nightlife and Lantern Streets
When night falls, the town comes alive with lantern lights, street performers, night markets, and charming riverside bars. Walking around at night feels like stepping into a fairy tale world.
Discover My Son Sanctuary
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son Sanctuary showcases the ancient Cham civilization. The temple ruins, surrounded by mountains and jungle, make it a fascinating day trip from Hoi An.
💡To have a perfect trip to Hoi An, visitors should check the weather forecast between seasons of the year in Hoi An, Vietnam. Refer here: Best Time to Visit Hoi An – When to Enjoy Sunshine, Lantern & An Bang Beach
