25+ unforgettable and unique things to do in Hoi An

Master Vietnamese Cuisine with a Cooking Class

A Hoi An cooking class is a top-rated activity and a fantastic way to engage with the local culture. You’ll typically start with a trip to the local market to shop for fresh ingredients, followed by a guided session where you learn to prepare signature dishes like spring rolls, Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes), and of course, the famous Cao Lầu noodles. It’s an immersive and delicious experience that offers skills you can use long after your trip is over.

What to Look For in a Class

• Market Visit: The best classes include a visit to a local market. This is where the experience truly begins, as you learn about fresh, local ingredients and see where the chefs source their produce.
• Small Class Size: Look for a class with a small group. This ensures you get personalized attention from the instructor and a more intimate experience.
• Variety of Dishes: Choose a class that teaches a few of Hoi An’s signature dishes, such as Cao Lầu, Bánh Xèo (crispy pancakes), or fresh spring rolls.
• Dietary Needs: Check if the class can accommodate any dietary restrictions you may have (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free) before you book.

Pro-Tips

• Wear Comfortable Clothing: You’ll be standing and cooking for a few hours, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You may even get a little messy.
• Come Hungry: You’ll be cooking a full meal, and the best part is getting to eat everything you make. It’s a feast, so don’t eat too much beforehand.
• Ask Questions: The instructors are knowledgeable about both the food and the local culture. Don’t be afraid to ask about ingredients, cooking techniques, or Vietnamese traditions.
• Write It Down: Many classes will provide a recipe booklet, but it’s a good idea to take your own notes on specific techniques or tips the chef shares. This will help you recreate the dishes at home.

Learn the Art of Lantern Making

Hoi An is famous for its vibrant, colorful lanterns, and creating your own is an enchanting activity. Several local shops and workshops offer classes where you can learn to assemble and decorate a traditional lantern. You get to choose the silk, shape the bamboo frame, and personalize your creation, making it a perfect handmade souvenir. This is a delightful activity to add to your list of things to do in Hoi An in a day.

What to Look For in a Class

• Small Group Setting: Look for a workshop that offers small, intimate classes. A smaller group size ensures you get personal attention and guidance from the instructor, making it easier to master the steps.
• Reputable Workshops: Many lantern shops in the Old Town offer classes, but it’s best to choose a well-known workshop. A reputable place will provide good-quality materials and experienced instructors.
• Variety of Materials: The best classes let you choose from different silk colors, patterns, and lantern shapes (like lotus, diamond, or cylinder). This allows you to create a lantern that truly reflects your personal style.

Pro-Tips

• Be Patient: Lantern making requires a little bit of patience. The process involves shaping a bamboo frame and carefully stretching the silk. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect on your first try—the instructors are there to help you.
• Combine with a Cooking Class: Many day tours in Hoi An offer a package that includes a cooking class in the morning and a lantern-making class in the afternoon. This is a great way to experience two unique aspects of Hoi An’s culture in one day.
• Bring a Bag: Make sure you have a suitable bag or box to carry your finished lantern home. The lanterns are designed to be collapsible for easy transport in your luggage, which is a big bonus.
• Enjoy the Process: Don’t focus too much on the end product. The joy of a lantern-making class is in the process itself. Chat with the instructor and other participants, and simply enjoy the creative, relaxing atmosphere.

Experience a Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest

For an unforgettable adventure, take a short trip to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Here, local boatmen will guide you on a fun and rhythmic journey in a round basket boat. They’ll even show you some incredible spinning moves or create a crown from coconut leaves. It’s a truly exhilarating and fun way to see the nipa palm forest and is widely considered one of the most exciting things to do in Hoi An.

What to Expect

• The Ride: You’ll be paired with a local paddler who will guide your round basket boat through the tranquil waterways of the coconut forest.
• The Performance: Your guide will likely show off their basket-spinning skills. Many will also sing, dance, and craft small souvenirs like rings or grasshoppers from coconut leaves.
• Photo Opportunities: The lush green backdrop of the forest and the unique boats make for some incredible photos and videos.

Pro-Tips

• Go with a Tour: The easiest way to do this activity is by booking a tour. Most packages include transportation from Hoi An and a local guide who can help with communication and logistics.
• Stay Hydrated: The forest can get quite hot, especially during the day. Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
• Wear a Hat: A traditional Vietnamese conical hat (nón lá) not only protects you from the sun but also adds to the fun of the experience. Many guides will provide them, but it’s a good idea to bring your own.
• Bring Cash for Tips: It’s customary to tip your paddler, especially if they give you a fun performance. A small tip of 30,000-50,000 VND is a kind gesture.
• Secure Your Belongings: The boats can be a little wobbly, so make sure your phone, camera, and other valuables are secure to avoid them falling into the water.
• Go During Golden Hour: A late afternoon trip, as the sun begins to set, offers beautiful light for photos and a cooler, more relaxed atmosphere.

Get Custom Tailored Clothing

Hoi An is known as the “tailoring capital” of Vietnam, and having a custom-made suit, dress, or shirt is a popular activity for many visitors. With a dizzying array of fabrics, styles, and skilled tailors, you can have a bespoke outfit created in as little as 24 hours. This is a must-do for fashion lovers and a great way to take home a high-quality, personalized souvenir.

Before You Go

• Do Your Research: With so many tailor shops, quality can vary. Read recent online reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Maps to find reputable places with good service and a consistent track record.
• Bring Inspiration: Don’t go in without a plan. Bring photos of the exact design you want—from a magazine, a celebrity, or even a screenshot from Pinterest. This helps the tailor understand your vision perfectly.
• Know Your Fabric: Do a little research on fabrics beforehand. Cotton, linen, silk, and cashmere are common, but knowing the pros and cons of each will help you make a better choice.

The Process

• Give Yourself Time: A quality suit or dress requires at least a day or two for proper fitting and adjustments. Avoid shops that promise completion in a few hours, as this can often mean a rush job with lower quality.
• Be Specific: Be clear about every detail, from the color and fabric to the type of buttons, collar, and stitching. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their process and materials.
• Insist on Multiple Fittings: A good tailor will schedule at least two fittings. The first is to get the initial measurements and try on the unfinished garment. The second is for final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

Explore the Countryside by Bicycle

Escape the crowds of the Old Town and embrace the peaceful countryside on a bicycle. Cycling through the emerald rice paddies and past quiet villages offers a beautiful glimpse into rural life. It’s one of the best free things to do in Hoi An if you’re staying at a hotel that provides bikes. You can feel the gentle breeze, see water buffalo grazing, and stop to chat with friendly locals.

Getting a Bike

• Check Your Hotel: Many hotels and guesthouses in Hoi An offer complimentary bicycle rentals as a guest amenity.
• Rent a Bike: If your hotel doesn’t provide them, you can easily rent a bike from a shop in town for a small fee, typically around 20,000-40,000 VND per day.
• Choose Your Ride: Make sure the bike is in good condition, with working brakes and tires. Get one with a basket if you plan to carry things.

Pro-Tips

• Go Early or Late: To avoid the heat of the day, start your ride in the early morning (before 9 AM) or in the late afternoon (after 4 PM). The “golden hour” light is also perfect for photography.
• Bring Water and Sunscreen: It can get hot, so bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Plan Your Route: While getting lost can be part of the fun, it helps to have a general idea of where you’re going. Popular routes include the path to An Bang Beach, Tra Que Vegetable Village, or the ferry to Cam Kim Island.
• Say Hello: Locals are friendly and will often smile and wave as you pass by. Don’t be afraid to greet them back. It’s a small gesture that can make your experience even more memorable.

Things to do in Hoi An: Food & Drink

Hoi An is a paradise for foodies. The town’s unique cuisine, heavily influenced by its history as a trading port, offers a delightful mix of flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. From street-side stalls to charming riverside cafes, here are the best things to do in Hoi An for a culinary adventure.

Savor Hoi An’s Culinary Delights

No trip to Hoi An is complete without trying the local specialties that have made the town a world-renowned food destination. Be sure to try a bowl of Cao Lầu, a unique noodle dish exclusive to Hoi An, or the famous Hoi An chicken rice (Cơm Gà). You can also’t miss the delectable fried wontons (Hoành Thánh Chiên) and the delicate White Rose dumplings (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc). For an authentic experience, seek out local eateries that have been serving these dishes for generations.

Must-Try Dishes

• Cao Lầu: This is Hoi An’s signature noodle dish. The noodles are said to be made with water from a special ancient well, giving them a unique texture. It’s served with pork slices, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons.
• Hoi An Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà): A simple yet incredibly flavorful dish. Tender shredded chicken is served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and turmeric, with a side of fresh herbs and pickled vegetables.
• Banh Mi Phung or Banh Mi Madam Khanh: Often hailed as the best Banh Mi in Vietnam, these sandwiches are legendary. Filled with a rich mix of pork, pâté, fresh herbs, and a special sauce, they are a delicious and affordable treat.
• Fried Wontons (Hoành Thánh Chiên): These crispy, deep-fried wontons are topped with a savory mixture of shrimp, pork, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. They’re a perfect blend of crunchy and flavorful.
• White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc): These delicate, translucent rice paper dumplings are shaped like little flowers. They’re filled with shrimp or pork and served with a dipping sauce. They’re both beautiful and delicious.

Pro-Tips

• Eat Where the Locals Eat: Look for small, family-run restaurants and street-side stalls that are busy with locals. They often offer the most authentic and delicious food at the best prices.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Try Everything: Be adventurous! Hoi An’s street food scene is safe and offers a fantastic variety of flavors.
• Carry Cash: Many small eateries and food stalls only accept cash, so make sure you have small denominations of Vietnamese Dong on hand.
• Take a Food Tour: If you want to dive deep into Hoi An’s food scene, consider a guided food tour. A local expert can lead you to the best hidden spots and explain the history behind each dish.
• Stay Hydrated: The weather in Hoi An can be hot and humid. Be sure to drink plenty of bottled water, especially while eating spicy food.

Sample Street Food at the Night Market

When the sun sets, Hoi An’s culinary scene comes alive. The night market across the bridge from the Old Town is a feast for the senses, offering a wide array of street food. You can try everything from grilled meat skewers and sweet soups to the famous Vietnamese baguette sandwich, known as Bánh Mì. This is an excellent way to experience the local culture and is a great option for things to do in Hoi An at night.

What to Expect

• Location and Hours: The main night market is located on Nguyen Hoang Street, on the island of An Hoi, just across the Japanese Covered Bridge. It’s typically open from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily, with peak hours between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
• Two Sides to the Market: The market is generally divided into two main sections: a row of souvenir stalls and a row dedicated to street food.
• Affordable and Delicious: Street food at the night market is a great way to try local dishes at very reasonable prices.

Must-Try Street Foods

While many of Hoi An’s classic dishes (like Banh Mi and Cao Lầu) are also available at the market, here are some items you’ll find primarily in the street food scene:

• Grilled Skewers: You’ll see dozens of stalls with skewers of grilled pork, chicken, shrimp, and squid. Look for the ones with a small charcoal grill and a crowd of locals.
• Vietnamese Pizza (Bánh Tráng Nướng): This is a savory crepe made from a thin rice paper sheet grilled with toppings like egg, minced pork, and dried shrimp, then folded or rolled.
• Banana Pancakes: A popular sweet treat, these are thin crepes filled with banana and often drizzled with chocolate or coconut sauce.
• Rolled Ice Cream: Watch as vendors pour a liquid cream mixture onto a frozen plate, then mix in your chosen toppings (like fruit or chocolate) before rolling it into perfect curls.
• Sweet Soups (Chè): These are delicious Vietnamese desserts made with ingredients like beans, fruits, and coconut milk. They’re a refreshing way to end your night.

Find the Best Coffee Shops with a View

Hoi An’s café culture is as charming as the town itself. Whether you prefer a quiet spot to read or a rooftop with a stunning view, you’ll find a perfect coffee shop. For a panoramic view of the ancient town’s rooftops, head to Faifo Coffee. For a more tranquil setting, look for cafes located near the rice paddies outside the Old Town, where you can sip on a refreshing coconut coffee while enjoying the peaceful scenery.

Rooftop Cafes with Old Town Views

• Faifo Coffee: Located on Tran Phu Street, Faifo is arguably the most famous rooftop cafe in Hoi An. While it can get crowded, the view from its rooftop terrace is unparalleled, offering a panoramic vista of the Ancient Town’s charming rooftops and the surrounding area. It’s an iconic spot for photos, especially at sunset.
• The Chef: Located near Faifo, The Chef also offers a beautiful rooftop view. It has a multi-floor design, and its top deck is a lovely spot to relax, with plenty of lanterns and greenery, providing a slightly quieter alternative to Faifo.
• 92 Station: Known for its spacious and beautifully decorated rooftop, 92 Station offers a spectacular 360-degree view of Hoi An. The climb to the top is worth it for the stunning panorama.

Cafes with River or Beach Views

• The Hoianian: Situated at the corner of Bach Dang and Le Loi Street, this cafe offers a direct view of the Thu Bon River. It’s an ideal spot to watch the lantern boats and people-watch as you enjoy a drink.
• The Deck Hoi An: Located on the rooftop of the Hotel Royal Hoi An, this is the highest rooftop bar in Hoi An. From here, you can get an impressive panoramic view of the city and its winding canals, making it a great place to watch the sunset.
• Sound of Silence Coffee Shop: If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the Old Town, this cafe is located near An Bang Beach. It’s a serene spot with a garden and a direct view of the ocean, perfect for unwinding.

Cafes with Rice Paddy Views

• Roving Chillhouse: This cafe has become famous for its simple, open-air design and stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies. It’s a bit outside of the main town, so a bike ride is a perfect way to get there. It offers a wonderfully peaceful and rustic atmosphere.
• Café Slow: As the name suggests, this cafe is a place to slow down and relax. Tucked away in the Tra Que vegetable village, it offers a peaceful, eco-friendly setting with an incredible view of the fields.

Join a Street Food Tour

For a truly immersive food experience, consider booking a street food tour. A local guide will take you off the beaten path to hidden gems and family-run stalls that you might not discover on your own. It’s an excellent way to learn about the history behind the food and taste a variety of dishes in one evening.

What to Look For in a Tour

• Small Group Size: A small group (typically 8-12 people) allows for a more personalized experience. You’ll have an easier time asking questions and getting to know the guide and other participants.
• Local Guide: Choose a tour with a local guide who speaks good English. Their knowledge of the area, the food, and the culture will make the tour much more engaging and informative.
• Reputation and Reviews: Check reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google to see what past participants have said about the tour. Look for tours that are praised for their knowledgeable guides and great food selections.
• Inclusions: Most tours include all the food and drinks, so you won’t need to worry about carrying cash. Check if the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, or if you’ll need to meet at a specific location.

Pro-Tips

• Come Hungry: This is the most important tip! A good street food tour will have you sampling many different dishes, so it’s a good idea to arrive with an empty stomach.
• Be Adventurous: A street food tour is a great opportunity to try things you might not have ordered on your own. Be open to new flavors and experiences.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your guide about the ingredients, how the food is prepared, or the history behind a particular dish. This is your chance to get an expert’s insights.
• Dress Comfortably: You’ll be walking and standing for a few hours, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Bring a Bottle of Water: While drinks are often included, it’s a good idea to have your own water bottle to stay hydrated, especially in the humid weather.
• Take Notes: If you really enjoy a specific dish or stall, take a note of its name and location so you can return later.