Best Hoi An Travel Guide: Lanterns, Food & Hidden Gems

Introduction - Why Hoi An Is Still Southeast Asia’s Most Charming Town

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to captivate travelers with its timeless beauty. The town is a seamless blend of history, culture, and relaxation, where centuries-old architecture, riverside lanterns, and fragrant food markets come together in perfect harmony.

Most visitors, however, only give Hoi An a quick 1-2 day stop on their Vietnam itinerary. In doing so, they risk missing what makes this town truly special - the quiet morning river markets, the authentic craft villages just beyond the Ancient Town, or the serene beaches that balance out its bustling streets.

This Hoi An travel guide 2025 is designed to go beyond the postcard moments. Here, you’ll find updated Hoi An travel tips, the best time to visit Hoi An, an insider’s Hoi An itinerary 2025, plus advice on where to eat in Hoi An and how to discover the town’s most authentic Hoi An experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025 or simply want to soak up the town’s riverside charm, this guide will help you unlock the real magic of Hoi An.

Best Time to Visit Hoi An in 2025

Weather Guide: Dry vs. Rainy Seasons

Hoi An has two very distinct seasons, and knowing the difference can make or break your trip.

Dry Season (February - August)

This is the most popular time to visit. From February to April, the weather is pleasantly cool, skies are clear, and the temperatures stay comfortable - perfect for wandering the lantern-lit streets or cycling to the countryside.
From May to August, expect hotter days (sometimes above 33°C) but also plenty of sunshine and calm seas, making it ideal for beach lovers heading to An Bang or Cham Islands. Just pack sunscreen and plan sightseeing in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Rainy Season (September - January)

Hoi An turns lush and green during this time, but it also comes with heavy showers and the chance of flooding, especially in October and November. While this season sees fewer tourists and better hotel deals, travel plans may be disrupted by the weather. December and January are cooler, with temperatures dipping below 20°C, so bring a light jacket if you visit then.

Best Overall Choice: Late February to early April strikes the perfect balance - great weather, lively festivals, and fewer crowds.

Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025

The Lantern Festival is the most magical event in Hoi An, happening every month on the night of the full moon. On these evenings, the Ancient Town switches off most electric lights, and the streets glow with thousands of colorful paper lanterns. Locals and visitors gather along the Thu Bon River, setting candle lit lanterns afloat to bring luck and peace.

Here are the 2025 Lantern Festival dates to mark on your calendar:

• January 13

• February 11

• March 13

• April 11

• May 11

• June 9

• July 8

• August 7

• September 5

• October 5

• November 3

• December 3

💡 Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot along the river, then stay until after 8:00 PM when the lanterns truly light up the night. It’s one of the most unforgettable authentic Hoi An experiences you can have.

Things to Do in Hoi An - Beyond the Ancient Town

Hoi An may be best known for its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, but there’s so much more waiting just beyond the lantern-lit streets. If you’re planning your Hoi An itinerary 2025, here are the top things to do in Hoi An that blend history, culture, and everyday life.

Walking Tour of the Ancient Town

Start with the heart of Hoi An - the Ancient Town. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with yellow-painted merchant houses, old assembly halls, and riverside cafes.

• Don’t miss the Japanese Bridge, a 17th-century wooden bridge that has become the symbol of Hoi An.

• Visit heritage homes such as Tan Ky House or Phung Hung House, where multiple generations once lived and traded.

• A ticket (120,000 VND) allows entry to several heritage sites and helps with preservation efforts.

Night Markets & Lantern-Lit Streets

As evening falls, the town transforms. The Thu Bon River sparkles with floating lanterns while the streets fill with stalls selling souvenirs, snacks, and handmade crafts.

• The Hoi An Night Market on Nguyen Hoang Street is the most popular, perfect for browsing silk lanterns, street food, and local art.

• For a magical experience, buy a small lantern, light a candle, and set it afloat on the river - a tradition said to bring luck.

Cycling Through Rice Paddies & Quiet Villages

Just a short ride away from the Old Town, Hoi An’s countryside opens up to emerald rice paddies, coconut groves, and peaceful villages.

• Rent a bicycle (around 40,000 VND per day) and cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where locals grow herbs using centuries-old methods.

• Head further to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, where you can hop into a round bamboo basket boat and learn traditional fishing techniques.

• For beach lovers, cycling to An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach makes for a refreshing day trip away from the crowds.

Whether you’re chasing history, nightlife, or authentic countryside charm, Hoi An rewards those who linger longer than a day or two.

Hoi An’s Lantern Culture and Nightlife

If there’s one image that defines Hoi An, it’s the soft glow of lanterns swaying above cobbled streets and floating gently on the Thu Bon River. More than decoration, these lanterns carry history, culture, and community spirit - making them one of the most authentic Hoi An experiences you can have.

The History of Hoi An’s Lantern Tradition

Lanterns first appeared in Hoi An in the 16th century, brought by Chinese and Japanese merchants who settled in this thriving trading port. Over time, the craft evolved into a local art form, blending Asian influences with Vietnamese creativity. Traditionally, lanterns symbolize prosperity, warmth, and good fortune. Today, they remain a living heritage, celebrated most vividly during the Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025, when the Old Town switches off electric lights and glows entirely by candle-lit lanterns.

Where to Buy or Make Your Own Lantern

• Night Markets: Stalls on Nguyen Hoang Street sell handmade silk lanterns in every size, color, and shape. Prices are affordable (from 20,000-100,000 VND), making them great souvenirs.

• Workshops: For a hands-on experience, join a lantern-making class in family-run ateliers like The Lantern Lady or Tuoi Ngoc Workshop. You’ll learn to bend bamboo frames, stretch silk, and create your own lantern to take home.

• Specialty Shops: If you prefer high-quality pieces, boutiques within the Ancient Town offer more durable lanterns with intricate designs.

Best Places to Enjoy the Lantern Festival Away from the Crowds

While the main streets of the Ancient Town can get packed during the full-moon festival, there are quieter spots where you can soak in the magic:

• An Hoi Islet: Just across the bridge, it offers stunning river views with fewer crowds.

• Thu Bon Riverside near Cam Nam: A more peaceful vantage point where locals release lanterns.

• Boating on the River: Hiring a small wooden sampan (around 150,000-200,000 VND for 30 minutes) gives you a front-row seat to the glowing spectacle while escaping the busy streets.

Tip: In 2025, the Hoi An Lantern Festival will take place every full moon night (14th day of the lunar month). Dates include January 14, February 12, March 14, April 13, and so on - each one offering a unique, atmospheric experience.

Craft Villages Around Hoi An

Beyond its Ancient Town and lantern-lit nights, Hoi An is also home to vibrant craft villages that preserve centuries-old traditions. Visiting these villages is one of the most authentic Hoi An culture experiences, letting you roll up your sleeves, meet artisans, and connect with the heritage that made this town a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village - Shaping Clay with Your Hands

Just 3 km west of Hoi An, Thanh Ha has been producing pottery since the 16th century. Families here pass down techniques through generations, creating everything from terracotta tiles to delicate vases.
What to Do: Try your hand at the pottery wheel. Local artisans will guide you to mold clay into bowls or figurines you can keep.
Highlights: Visit the Thanh Ha Terracotta Park, an open-air museum featuring mini replicas of world-famous monuments like the Colosseum and Angkor Wat, all made from clay.

Kim Bong Carpentry Village - Where Boats Are Born

Across the Thu Bon River from the Ancient Town lies Kim Bong, known for its master woodworkers since the 15th century. The village supplied wooden boats, pagodas, and merchant houses that still stand in Hoi An today.
What to Do: Watch craftsmen carve intricate furniture, repair boats, or build traditional fishing vessels.
Highlights: Some workshops welcome visitors to try wood-carving under the guidance of skilled artisans.

Tra Que Herb Village - Farming with the Locals

Located about 3 km northeast of the town center, Tra Que is a lush farming community famous for its organic herbs, grown in fertile soil enriched with river algae.
What to Do: Join a farmer for a hands-on session - hoeing the soil, watering vegetables, and harvesting herbs.
Highlights: After work, enjoy a cooking class where you’ll prepare signature dishes like tam huu (shrimp, pork, and herbs wrapped in rice paper).
Tip for Travelers: Renting a bicycle is the best way to explore these Hoi An craft villages. The ride takes you through rice paddies, coconut groves, and quiet backroads, offering a refreshing contrast to the busy Old Town.

Hidden Beaches Near Hoi An

Hoi An may be famous for its lanterns and Ancient Town, but its coastline is just as magical. If you’re planning your Hoi An itinerary 2025, don’t miss the chance to relax by the sea. From lively stretches with beach bars to quiet shores perfect for sunrise walks, here are some of the best Hoi An beaches 2025 and hidden gems.

An Bang Beach - Lively Yet Laid-Back

Just 3 km from the Ancient Town, An Bang is Hoi An’s most popular beach - but it still manages to keep a chilled, unspoiled vibe.
Why Visit: Soft white sand, clean waters, and a lively row of bars and seafood restaurants. Great for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying cocktails by the sea.
Best Time: Come in the late afternoon for cooler weather and breathtaking sunsets.

Hidden Cham Islands - For Snorkeling & Eco Stays

A short boat ride (about 30 minutes) from Cua Dai Port takes you to the Cham Islands, a UNESCO-recognized marine reserve.
Why Visit: Crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving, coral reefs, and small fishing villages offering authentic local life.
Insider Tip: Stay overnight at a homestay for a peaceful, eco-friendly retreat far from the mainland’s crowds.

Cua Dai Beach - Best for Sunrise Walks

Once the most famous beach in Hoi An, Cua Dai suffered from erosion in recent years but has seen strong restoration efforts.
Why Visit: Wide sandy stretches make it ideal for long walks and early-morning sunrises. Fewer crowds compared to An Bang in the afternoon.
Best Time: Early morning before 8:00 AM when the light is soft and local fishermen bring in their daily catch.

Insider Tips to Avoid Tourist Traps

• Bring your own towel and water if you don’t want to rent beach chairs from vendors.
• For Cham Islands, book eco-certified tours to ensure you’re supporting sustainable tourism.
• Skip weekends if you want quieter beaches, as locals often head out for family gatherings.

What to Eat in Hoi An - A Culinary Journey

If there’s one thing travelers never forget about Hoi An, it’s the food. The town’s cuisine is deeply rooted in local history, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange as a bustling port city. Whether you’re exploring hidden street food stalls or enjoying a meal by the Thu Bon River, Hoi An offers flavors you won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam. Here’s your Hoi An food guide to the must-try dishes and best spots for both casual bites and sit-down dining.

Cao Lau Noodles - The Pride of Hoi An

Cao Lau is the dish most closely tied to Hoi An’s identity. Thick, chewy noodles are made with water drawn from ancient Ba Le well and mixed with a special lye solution, giving them their unique texture. The dish is topped with slices of pork, fresh herbs, crunchy croutons, and a small amount of broth.
Where to Try:
Thanh Cao Lau (26 Thai Phien St.) - Famous among locals for its authentic preparation.
Ba Be Cao Lau in the central market - Simple, affordable, and delicious.

White Rose Dumplings - A Local Specialty

Known locally as Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc, these delicate dumplings are shaped like blooming roses, filled with shrimp or pork, and steamed until translucent. They’re often garnished with crispy shallots for extra texture.
Where to Try:
White Rose Restaurant (533 Hai Ba Trung St.) – Run by the family said to hold the original recipe.
Night market food stalls - You can sample a plate for just a few dollars.

Bánh Mì Phượng - Vietnam’s Most Famous Sandwich

No Hoi An food journey is complete without stopping at Bánh Mì Phượng, the legendary sandwich shop made famous by Anthony Bourdain. The baguette is crisp on the outside and fluffy inside, generously filled with layers of pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, herbs, and house-made sauces. Lines can get long, but the wait is worth it.
Where to Find:
Bánh Mì Phượng (2B Phan Chu Trinh St.) – Opens daily, often crowded but efficient.
Insider tip: Arrive mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid peak meal rushes.

Street Food Stalls vs. Sit-Down Restaurants

• Street Food: Beyond Bánh Mì Phượng, try Mót Hoi An (150 Tran Phu St.) for its herbal iced tea, or small vendors at the night market for bánh bèo (mini steamed rice cakes) and grilled skewers.

• Sit-Down Restaurants: For a more relaxed meal, Morning Glory Original (106 Nguyen Thai Hoc St.) serves elevated versions of street classics, while Vy’s Market Restaurant offers both dining and cooking classes for a hands-on culinary experience.

🍜 Insider Tip: Food tours are one of the most authentic Hoi An experiences. Local guides will take you beyond the tourist trail into hidden eateries where you’ll discover dishes most visitors miss.

Insider Travel Tips for Hoi An in 2025

Even though Hoi An is compact and easy to explore, a few practical tips can make your trip smoother and more rewarding. Here’s what you need to know before planning your Hoi An itinerary 2025.

How Long to Stay for the Best Experience

• Minimum Stay: 2–3 days is enough to see the Ancient Town, try local food, and enjoy the lantern-lit evenings.

• Ideal Stay: 4–5 days allows you to add craft villages, a cooking class, or a beach day to your trip.

• Extended Stay: Many digital nomads and slow travelers stay weeks, as Hoi An offers a relaxed lifestyle, coworking cafés, and cultural depth that rewards longer visits.

Getting Around Hoi An

• On Foot: The Ancient Town is best explored by walking. Streets are pedestrian-friendly, especially in the evening when vehicles are restricted.

• Bicycles: Most hotels and homestays provide free or cheap bicycle rentals. Cycling through rice paddies to nearby villages is one of the most authentic Hoi An experiences.

• Motorbikes: Affordable to rent (around 120,000–150,000 VND/day). A good option if you want to reach An Bang Beach, Cua Dai, or Marble Mountains quickly.

• Taxis & Ride-hailing: Grab is widely available in Hoi An and Da Nang, perfect for airport transfers or late-night rides.

Money, SIM Cards & Safety

• Cash vs. Card: Cash is still king in Hoi An, especially at street food stalls, local shops, and markets. ATMs are available, but bring small denominations. Upscale restaurants and hotels usually accept credit cards.

• SIM Cards: Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone all offer tourist SIMs at Da Nang Airport or convenience stores. A 30-day data package is inexpensive (around $7–10 USD) and helps with navigation and Grab bookings.

• Safety: Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s safest destinations, even at night. Still, keep an eye on belongings in crowded markets and lock your bicycle when leaving it outside.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the rainy season (October–December), bring a lightweight raincoat. Streets in the Ancient Town can flood, but it also creates atmospheric reflections that photographers love.

Conclusion - Discover Hoi An’s Soul in 2025

Recap: Why Hoi An Captures Every Traveler’s Heart

Hoi An isn’t just another stop in Vietnam - it’s a living museum where lanterns glow on the Thu Bon River, where local craft villages thrive, and where golden beaches stretch peacefully into the horizon. In 2025, the town continues to balance its UNESCO charm with authentic, everyday life.

Why a Short Visit Isn’t Enough

Many visitors rush through Hoi An in just a day or two, but the real beauty lies in slowing down. Spend an evening at the Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025, cycle past rice paddies into quiet villages, or wake up early for a sunrise walk along Cua Dai Beach. The longer you stay, the deeper you’ll connect with its culture, food, and people.

Threeland Travel - Your Local Expert in Vietnam

To truly uncover Hoi An’s soul, having a trusted guide makes all the difference. Threeland Travel, a leading Vietnam destination management company (DMC), specializes in creating tailor-made itineraries that go beyond surface-level sightseeing. From arranging workshops in Thanh Ha Pottery Village to booking eco-friendly stays near Cham Islands, Threeland ensures you experience authentic Hoi An while supporting local communities.

Final Note: Make Your Journey Count

Hoi An is a place best experienced, not just visited. If you’re planning your Hoi An itinerary 2025, let Threeland Travel be your partner in discovery. With insider access, cultural expertise, and personalized care, your journey will be more than memorable - it will be meaningful.