Situated on the central coast of Vietnam, just a few kilometers south of Da Nang, Hoi An captivates with its enchanting atmosphere and rich heritage. Nicknamed the "City of Lanterns," it enchants visitors with its illuminated streets in a thousand colors, its UNESCO-listed historic center, and its gentle pace of life. A former Asian trading port, it today combines deeply rooted traditions, peaceful beaches and lively scenes of daily life.

A Touch of History

Former known as Faifo, Hoi An established itself from the 15th century onward as a major commercial hub in Southeast Asia, renowned especially for its silk and ceramics. Crossed by the Thu Bon River, it welcomed Chinese, Japanese and European merchants, who left their mark on the local architecture. Colonized by the French, then occupied during the Vietnam War, the city has endured through the centuries while preserving its identity. Its remarkably well-preserved old town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999.

Hoi An Today

The city is divided between two zones: the historic center, entirely pedestrianized, where ancient houses, temples and picturesque streets are concentrated, and recent neighborhoods bordering the coast, prized for their beaches and tourist facilities. Far from being frozen in its past, Hoi An vibrates with contemporary energy: artisanal shops, cafés, galleries and performances animate its alleys. When evening falls, the city dons warm lights, and its atmosphere becomes simply magical.

What to See in Hoi An?

A true open-air museum, Hoi An is best discovered on foot or by bicycle. Certain places deserve particular attention:

• The Japanese Bridge (Chùa Cầu), built in the 17th century, an iconic symbol of the city and a true architectural masterpiece.
• Ancient houses (Tan Ky, Phung Hung, Quan Thang, Duc An), witnesses to a blend of cultural influences.
• Temples and communal houses, spaces of community life still imbued with spirituality.
• Thematic museums, housed in traditional buildings, to better understand local history, folk arts or Sa Huynh culture.

In the surrounding area:

• The Mỹ Sơn sanctuary, an archaeological site listed by UNESCO.
• The Bay Mau coconut forest, to be explored by traditional basket boat.
• Traditional villages such as Thanh Hà (ceramics), Tra Que (organic farming) or Cam Chau (lanterns).
• An Bang beach, just minutes from the center, is perfect for swimming and relaxation.

What to Do in Hoi An?

Beyond sightseeing, Hoi An invites you to experience truly immersive activities:

• Vietnamese cooking classes: after a market tour and garden harvest, you prepare local specialties with a chef.
• Craft workshops: lanterns, pottery, masks… traditional skills passed down through generations.
• Cycling excursions through the surrounding countryside, between rice fields, organic farms and peaceful villages.
• Bespoke tailoring: take home an outfit created in just a few hours according to your preferences.
• Hoi An Memories Show: an impressive outdoor performance retracing the city's history.
• Excursion to the Cham Islands, a UNESCO-listed nature reserve, combining diving, beach time and local craftsmanship.

And for simpler pleasures: an evening stroll along the riverside, fresh herbal tea at MOT, or a terrace dinner in the hushed ambiance of lantern light.

When to Visit?

The best time to visit Hoi An extends from February to May, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is rare. It is advisable to avoid the rainy season, from September to January, marked by heavy precipitation and a risk of flooding, especially between November and January. Between June and August, heat is intense, with peaks reaching 38°C, which can make sightseeing less comfortable.

By Air

• Hoi An has no airport. The closest is Da Nang International Airport, approximately 30 km away.
• Direct flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and several major Asian cities.
• From Da Nang, allow 45 to 50 minutes travel time to reach Hoi An.

Tip: Opt for car rental with driver or an organized transfer through your hotel or local agency to avoid costly taxis.

By Train

• No train station in Hoi An. You must disembark at Da Nang station.
• Regular trains from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
• Long journey (between 15 and 19 hours), but comfortable in sleeper cabins.
• Ideal for discovering Vietnamese landscapes: rice fields, mountains, coast, dragon fruit plantations.
• Once in Da Nang, take a taxi or bus to Hoi An.

Automobile traffic is prohibited in Hoi An's old town, making it an ideal place to explore on foot or by bicycle. Despite its small size, the streets can be narrow and sometimes crowded with motorbikes, so caution is advised. To get around outside the center, it is possible to rent a scooter, provided you wear a helmet and respect traffic laws.