Hoi An, Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide to What to See and How to Get Around the UNESCO World Heritage City.

If you're looking for a destination that combines history, culture, and authentic experiences, Hoi An should be on your list. This small city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living museum and one of the most enchanting places in Vietnam.

How to get to Hoi An

Hoi An does not have its own airport or train station. The most common way to get there is by flying to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) , which receives domestic flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City as well as international flights from other Southeast Asian hubs. From the airport, the journey to Hoi An by taxi or private transfer takes approximately 50 minutes.

Another option is the train. The nearest train station is in Da Nang, which is well-connected to the national network. From there, you can take a bus or taxi for the final leg of your journey. For medium distances, such as from Hue or Nha Trang, shared buses and vans are an economical and efficient option.

The Best Time to Visit

The climate in central Vietnam is divided into two main seasons:

• Rainy season (September to January): Expect frequent showers and the possibility of typhoons, especially from October onwards. January can be cool, so pack a light jacket or sweater.
• Dry season (February to August): This is the ideal time to visit. The best months are March to May, when temperatures are pleasant. June to August is very hot, but it's still a good time to travel.

What to See in Hoi An

The question isn't what to see, but where to begin. The old town is the heart of the city and deserves your full attention.

1. The Old Quarter
Strolling through its pedestrian streets is like stepping back in time. You'll see over 1,000 wooden buildings showcasing a unique fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences. Don't miss the Japanese Covered Bridge , an 18th-century symbol of the city. The original street layout, parallel and perpendicular to the Thu Bon River, remains intact, allowing you to easily imagine what life was like in this former trading port.

2. The Monthly Lantern Festival

One of the most magical experiences you can have is coinciding with the full moon festival, which takes place on the night of the 14th of each lunar month . The town turns off its electric lights and illuminates itself with thousands of colorful lanterns. It's a tradition to buy a paper lantern, light it, make a wish, and let it float down the river. It's a truly unforgettable sight.

3. Coconut Basket Boat Ride

For a fun and unique activity, head to the Coconut Forest of Bay Mau (5 km from the center). Here you'll board the characteristic round bamboo boats and take a ride along the canals. Local paddlers often spin the boats around quickly, creating a fun and photogenic water show.

4. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Hoi An is a gastronomic paradise. Its signature dishes are a must-try:

• Cao Lau: Thick noodles with crunchy grains and herbs, only made here.
• White Rose (Bánh bao bánh vạc): Translucent rice dumplings shaped like a rose, filled with shrimp or pork.
• Hoanh Thanh: The local version of fried wontons, usually served with a sweet sauce.

5. Explore the Countryside by Bicycle
Rent a bicycle and escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. Pedal towards nearby villages like Cam Thanh or Tra Que , where you'll see vegetable fields, farms, and Vietnamese rural life at its most authentic. It's ideal to do this at dawn or dusk to avoid the heat.

6. Relax on the Beach
Just a 10-minute taxi or bike ride from the old town, you'll find An Bang Beach , a long sandy beach with seafood restaurants, hammocks, and a relaxed atmosphere. For a more adventurous experience, you can take a boat to the Cham Islands , known for their crystal-clear waters and snorkeling.

How to Get Around in Hoi An

One of the great advantages of Hoi An is its manageable size.

• On foot: The best way to explore the old town, which is pedestrianized.
• Bicycles: They are the preferred mode of transport for travelers. Many accommodations offer free or very affordable rentals. They are perfect for getting to the beach or the countryside.
• Mototaxi (Xe Om) or Taxi: Ideal for longer distances or if you need to go to Da Nang airport.

Conclusion: Is Hoi An worth it?

Absolutely. Hoi An is worth visiting for its authenticity and its ability to offer a profound cultural experience in an incredibly picturesque setting. It's not a place of grand, isolated monuments, but rather a preserved town-environment where every street, every market, and every corner tells a story. It's a destination that more than achieves the difficult feat of being both a tourist magnet and retaining its soul. Plan your visit to enjoy it to the fullest.