Hoi An

Hoi An is a historic town in central Vietnam, known for its ancient town, colorful lanterns, traditional architecture, and timeless atmosphere.

History, traditions and a timeless atmosphere in central Vietnam

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most captivating towns, a place where history is woven into everyday life and time seems to move at a gentler pace. Located along the central coast, Hoi An was once a major trading port, welcoming merchants from Vietnam, China, Japan and Europe. This multicultural past is still clearly reflected in the town’s architecture and long-standing traditions.

The ancient town, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forms the heart of Hoi An. Wooden houses, temples, Chinese assembly halls and small bridges create a harmonious urban landscape, especially evocative at sunset, when lanterns light up the streets and reflect on the Thu Bon River.

The ancient town and Hoi An’s lanterns

Walking through Hoi An’s old town means stepping into a carefully preserved historic setting. The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks and a reminder of its international past. Former merchant houses, many now open as small museums, offer insight into the daily lives of families who lived here centuries ago.

Handcrafted lanterns have become the symbol of Hoi An. Once a month, during the full moon, electric lights are turned off in the ancient town and the streets are illuminated only by lanterns, creating a soft and intimate atmosphere that defines the town’s identity.

Local cuisine and daily life

Hoi An is widely regarded as one of Vietnam’s culinary highlights. Dishes such as cao lầu, made with thick noodles, fresh herbs and meat, or the delicate white rose dumplings, are closely associated with the town and rarely found elsewhere. Local markets and small family-run restaurants allow visitors to experience a cuisine deeply rooted in the region.

The compact scale of Hoi An makes it ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle. Just beyond the historic center, rice fields, traditional craft villages and quiet beaches can be reached within minutes.

Best time to visit Hoi An

The best period to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is dry, temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is limited. Summer months can be hot but remain popular, while autumn brings heavier rains and occasional flooding. Winter is mild and generally quieter.

Average temperatures by season

Spring: 22–28°C, dry weather and ideal conditions for sightseeing
Summer: 26–34°C, hot temperatures moderated by coastal breezes
Autumn: 23–29°C, frequent rainfall and higher humidity
Winter: 19–24°C, mild temperatures and a calmer atmosphere

Hoi An as a base for exploring central Vietnam

Hoi An is an excellent base for discovering central Vietnam. From here, it is easy to reach Da Nang, the Cham temple complex of My Son, and the beaches along the coast. The town brings together history, traditions, cuisine and landscapes in a balanced and authentic way, offering a well-rounded travel experience.