After an epic 16-hour sleeper train journey from the bustling city of Hanoi to the coastal town of Da Nang, we were eager to explore the charming and historic town of Hoi An.
Known for its ancient streets, lantern-lit evenings, and riverside beauty, Hoi An is the perfect place to unwind after a long trip.
HOW TO GET TO HOI AN FROM DA NANG
Hoi An is about 30 km (18 miles) from Da Nang, and there are several ways to travel from Da Nang to Hoi An.
- Private Car. The most convenient option is booking a private car to take you directly from Da Nang to Hoi An. You can easily book a private vehicle through online platforms like Klook or local travel agencies in Da Nang.
- Grab. While Grab is available in Da Nang, trips to Hoi An can be more expensive, especially in the evening. Prices may rise due to surge pricing, particularly if you’re leaving Hoi An at night.
- Shared Minibus. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, shared shuttle buses or mini buses are available from Da Nang to Hoi An. However, they may take longer due to multiple stops.
ARRIVING IN HOI AN AND EXPLORING THE TOWN
We arrived in Hoi An in the early afternoon, with plenty of time to explore the highlights of this ancient town.
Hoi An is well-known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walking through the narrow streets lined with historic buildings, lantern shops, and local markets, we felt as though we had stepped back in time.
Highlights of Hoi An Ancient Town
- Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu). The 16th-century wooden bridge in Hoi An is a must-see landmark. You can view it for free from the outside, but you need an entrance ticket to the Ancient Town to cross it.
- Hoi An Riverside. Enjoy a stroll by the riverside, where you’ll find colorful boats, riverside cafes, and a relaxed vibe. In the evening, the river becomes even more magical as lanterns are lit.
- Tailor Shops. One of the best places in Vietnam to get custom-made clothing is Hoi An, which is well-known for its tailors. You can look through the shops and pick your designs, but it might take a few days to finish.
- Lanterns. Thousands of vibrant lanterns line the streets of Hoi An as the afternoon fades into the evening. To learn how to make your own, you can even enroll in a workshop that makes lanterns.
- Local Markets. The Hoi An Central Market is a fantastic place to experience the local way of life for those who are interested in handicrafts, cuisine, and souvenirs.
WHERE TO EAT IN HOI AN
Hoi An is also known for its culinary delights, and after a long day of traveling, indulging in the local cuisine is a must.
Here are some must-visit places to eat in Hoi An:
- Cao Lau. The regional dish includes thick noodles, pork, fresh greens, and crispy croutons. The unique flavor of the noodles comes from the water from a specific well in Hoi An. Cao Lau Khong Gian Xanh is an excellent place to try this dish.
- Banh Mi Phuong: For a quick, delicious meal, head to Banh Mi Phuong, famous for its flavorful banh mi sandwiches. Anthony Bourdain once visited this spot, and it’s become a popular stop for travelers.
- Morning Glory Restaurant: Morning Glory offers traditional Vietnamese dishes in a refined setting with an extensive menu and a perfect ambiance for a relaxed meal.
- White Rose Dumplings: Don’t miss the White Rose Dumplings in Hoi An. These delicate dumplings are filled with shrimp or pork and shaped like roses. Try them at White Rose Restaurant, where they are made fresh daily.
ACTIVITIES TO DO IN HOI AN
After filling up delicious food, there’s plenty more to do in Hoi An to soak in the local culture and history.
- Cycling Around Town. Hoi An is perfect for exploring by bicycle, with flat streets and easy access to the Ancient Town, local villages, and the river. Many hotels and guesthouses offer bike rentals.
- Cooking Classes. Hoi An is famous for its vibrant food scene and offers cooking classes for local dishes like spring rolls, pho, and cao lau.
- Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Thu Bon River as evening falls, surrounded by lantern-lit riverbanks and the opportunity to release a floating lantern for luck.
- Hoi An Night Market. Consider visiting the vibrant Hoi An Night Market in the evening for street food, souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere.
TIPS AND REMINDERS FOR YOUR VISIT TO HOI AN
- Entrance Ticket to Ancient Town. In Hoi An Ancient Town, you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket to visit five heritage sites of your choice, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, and pagodas.
- Bring Cash. Many places in Hoi An, especially the markets and street vendors, operate on a cash-only basis. It’s a good idea to have enough Vietnamese dong for small purchases and street food.
- Weather Considerations. Hoi An can get quite hot during the afternoon, especially in the summer months. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated as you walk around the town.
- Avoid Grab Late at Night. Consider booking a private car in advance for a more cost-effective and reliable option when traveling from Hoi An to Da Nang at night.
- Respect Local Culture. Hoi An is a historic town with deep cultural roots. Dress modestly when visiting temples and historical sites, and always be respectful when taking photos, especially of local people.
After a 16-hour train ride from Hanoi, stepping into the timeless beauty of Hoi An was like entering a different world.
The town’s ancient architecture, vibrant markets, and riverside charm offered the perfect respite from a long journey.
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