HOI AN: THE CITY OF LANTERNS

Hoi An may be famous for its glowing lanterns and magical evenings, but this charming town offers so much more. Beyond the postcard-perfect streets, you’ll find rich history, local craftsmanship, and authentic cultural experiences that make it one of Vietnam’s most captivating destinations.

HIGHLIGHTS HOI AN

1. Wandering Through Hoi An’s Ancient Town

Take your time to stroll through the old town of Hoi An, where every street feels like a scene from a storybook. Bright lanterns hang overhead, and the iconic yellow houses give the town its signature glow. The center is compact, so you can easily explore it in a few hours—but every corner is worth a pause.

Be sure to stop by the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of Hoi An’s most famous landmarks, and peek into one of the hidden temples tucked between the shops and cafés. It’s a charming walk that blends history, color, and atmosphere in the most delightful way.

2. Cycling Through Hoi An’s Countryside

One of the highlights of our time in Hoi An was booking a bike tour through the countryside—and honestly, it’s totally worth it. You’re pedaling right between endless stretches of green rice fields, with water buffalo grazing and farmers waving as you pass by. It’s peaceful, scenic, and gives you a real taste of rural Vietnam.

Along the way, we stopped at several local workshops, where artisans showed us how they make rice paper, weave mats from reeds, build wooden boats, and carve intricate woodwork. It’s hands-on, authentic, and a great way to connect with the traditions that still thrive outside the tourist zones.

And the best part? On the way back, we loaded our bikes onto a local boat and cruised back to town via the river. A gentle breeze, quiet waters, and a totally different view of Hoi An—it was the perfect ending to a perfect ride.

3. Hoi An Night Market –
Lanterns, Crowds, and River Magic

When night falls in Hoi An, the town transforms into a glowing wonderland. The Hoi An Night Market comes alive with colorful lanterns, bustling stalls, and a festive atmosphere that’s hard to resist. It’s incredibly beautiful and atmospheric, with lanterns lighting up the streets, bridges, and boats along the river.

But be warned—it gets very crowded. Tourists flock here in droves, especially around sunset, so expect a bit of a squeeze as you wander through the market.

If you’re planning to take a traditional lantern boat ride on the river, keep in mind that you’ll likely have to wait in line. It’s a popular activity, and while the short ride is charming—floating past glowing lanterns and reflections—it’s not exactly a hidden gem anymore.

Still, if you embrace the buzz and go with the flow, it’s a magical way to experience Hoi An by night.

4. Make your own Lantern

One of the most fun and creative activities in Hoi An is making your own lantern—and the best part? Workshops are offered all over the city. Whether you're into painting, crafting, or just want a unique souvenir, there's something for everyone.

Some workshops let you paint your own design, others focus on covering the frame with silk, and at certain places you can even choose the shape and size of your lantern. Each spot has its own vibe, so take a moment to ask around and pick the one that suits you best.

It’s a great way to connect with local culture, get crafty, and walk away with something truly personal. Plus, most lanterns fold up, so they’re easy to pack and take home!

5. Book a Cooking Class

If you really want to dive into Vietnamese culture, book a cooking class in Hoi An—it’s more than just learning recipes, it’s a full-on experience.

The day starts with a visit to a local market, where you pick out fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices. It’s lively, colorful, and a feast for the senses. From there, you hop into one of Hoi An’s traditional round basket boats, gently cruising through coconut groves on your way to the cooking venue.

The class itself takes place in a beautiful outdoor setting, surrounded by nature and calm. Guided by a local chef, you’ll prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like Bánh xèo, fresh spring rolls, and lemongrass chicken. And yes—you get to eat your creations afterwards, which taste even better after all the effort!

6. Beach Break at An Bang

Need a break from the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An? Head to An Bang Beach, just a short ride from the city center. It’s the perfect spot to kick off your shoes, sink into the sand, and soak up the tropical vibes.

The beach itself is laid-back and beautiful, with gentle waves, palm trees, and plenty of cocktail bars lining the shore. Whether you’re after a chilled mojito or a fresh coconut, there’s a spot for every mood.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our time in Hoi An, we stayed at the Royal Riverside Hotel—a lovely place that struck the perfect balance between peace and proximity. The hotel is located just outside the busy Ancient Town, so you’re close enough to walk to all the sights, but far enough to enjoy some quiet.

The rooms are comfortable, the staff is friendly, and there’s even a pool where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Whether you’re heading out for lantern-lit evenings or just want a relaxing base, Royal Riverside is a great pick.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

Demo Caffee: for a good lunch
Lim Dining Room: Vietnamese food tired? This is a really good Italian place
Ellie's Café: for a yummie lunch or breakfast
Cargo Club Cafe: Really Good Vietnamese Food