Buzz
Hoi An's ancient town is a familiar destination for both domestic and international tourists. Here, in addition to strolling through the city and admiring the colorful lanterns, there are countless other exciting activities waiting to be explored. Be sure to book a Hoi An tour for the upcoming Lunar New Year to make the most of your visit.
Exciting experiences in Hoi An that you should try
1. Release a lantern on the river
While daytime offers the perfect opportunity to stroll through the streets, admiring the centuries-old buildings, the night transforms into a magical time for visitors to immerse themselves in the local life. One of the most memorable experiences is releasing flower lanterns on the Hoai River. Beyond simply observing, you can join in and contribute to this luminous celebration. Purchase a small, delicate lantern, set it afloat on the river, and watch it drift away as you make a silent wish for good fortune to come to you and your family. In that peaceful, simple moment, you may feel as though time stands still, and you wish to remain in this tranquil space forever.
2. Taste the Cao Lầu
Just as Saigon is famous for its banh mi, and Hanoi for its bun cha, Hoi An is renowned for its Cao Lầu. This is a dish you must try when visiting the ancient town. A bowl of Cao Lầu offers an exquisite combination of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors from fresh herbs, fish sauce, meat, and soy sauce. The unique texture of the noodles, both crunchy and chewy, complemented by crispy pork skin, has won the hearts of countless travelers.
3. Drift Along the Hoai River at Night
In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride along the Hoai River with family or friends to experience the peaceful, quiet atmosphere of the ancient town at night. The calm, mirror-like water will guide you to hidden corners of Hoi An that you might have missed during the day. From the boat, you'll see the city from a completely different perspective, with views as stunning as those in European cities on a foreign tour.
4. Taste the 'World's Best Bánh Mì'
Besides Cao Lầu, Hoi An is also famous for its legendary bánh mì sandwiches. Voted one of the best bánh mìs in the world by several international magazines, Hoi An's bánh mì is simply unbeatable. While similar to other Vietnamese bánh mìs, Hoi An’s version is uniquely crafted with a special recipe that sets it apart. The rich pate, savory pork, crunchy cucumber slices, fragrant herbs, and a sweet-salty sauce come together to create a truly exceptional sandwich.
5. Try Hoi An's Street Coffee
One of the most captivating aspects that draws tourists in is the simple pleasure of sipping coffee by the roadside. Regardless of the time of day, it's always the right moment to enjoy a cup of coffee in Hoi An. Visitors can easily stop by a small street-side cafe, order a glass of iced or hot milk coffee, and slowly savor it. As they enjoy the delicious coffee, they can watch the busy flow of people passing by, occasionally glancing at the timeless beauty of the old houses. It's an experience that brings a rare sense of tranquility.
6. 'Phượt' Cu Lao Cham
Located about 15 kilometers east of the ancient town, Cu Lao Cham is a must-see destination when visiting Hoi An. Known for its pristine charm and natural beauty, Cu Lao Cham has enchanted countless travelers. The most exciting activities you must experience here include snorkeling to see the coral reefs, lighting a campfire, staying with local families, and of course, tasting the fresh and delicious seafood.
