This UNESCO city is crowded but it’s easy to avoid the chaos in Hoi An. here’s where to go for the best Vietnamese food, hotel and sights.
Hoi An is one of eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam, but it might just be the most famous. It draws intense crowds at night, even in low season when I visited.
Let me share how to spend one incredible day in Hoi An and tips on how to make the most of your trip without feeling overwhelmed.
Morning: Custom Clothing and Photo Memories
As a UNESCO site hotels can be pricey but we loved the Aman Boutique Hotel. It was just outside the core noise and had great local cafes around it.
Two days before, I decided I wanted to do something Hoi An is famous for – visiting a tailor. The city has hundreds of shops where skilled craftspeople can create custom clothing in just days.
I chose a traditional Vietnamese dress to remember my travels. The fabric selection was amazing and the tailors worked quickly.
The process was simple. The following morning I had alterations and the next time it was ready.
Phu Quoc Night Market
To capture this special moment, I hired a local photographer from Flytographer. They knew all the perfect spots to showcase my new outfit against the backdrop of the ancient town.
We went out EARLY. Get the morning light and you’ll avoid the heat and the crowds. It’s also a nice time of day because locals are all out getting ready.
Vietnam is a country best experienced at 6am.
Street Food in Hanoi
Midday: Food and Rest
Many people know pho but there are so many noodle dishes in Vietnam and some are very regional. Of course I wanted to try the local specialty – mi quang
After photos, my stomach led me to Mi Quang 92 noodles for lunch. This local specialty features rice noodles in a small amount of savory broth with pork, shrimp and herbs.
The flavors were bold yet balanced. Each restaurant makes their version a bit differently.
And if you prefer rice, you should try the local chicken rice dish com ga. But find a street vendor as it’s best on the street eating beside locals.
I headed back to my hotel afterward for a short rest. June in Hoi An is hot but the crowds are minimal compared to peak season.
My accommodation cost only $15 per night as it was off season..
Afternoon: Basket Boats and Coffee Culture
The afternoon called for water adventures. I joined a basket boat tour along the river that surrounds Hoi An.
These round boats are a traditional Vietnamese fishing vessel. Sitting in one while a local guide steered us through the water was both fun and cultural.
Honestly it is so touristy but also so much fun, you’ll with laughter as your guide spins the boat. Locals really put on a show and be sure to tip generously as many of the “drivers” are older women who work hard.
As beautiful as Old Town is, the crowds can be tiring. It’s best to find places you can sneak away to for some peace.
After the boat tour I needed caffeine and we found Finn Coffee. This garden cafe hides down a small alley away from the main streets.
It’s a beautiful spot and takes coffee seriously.
One of their specialties is peanut coffee. The rich coffee combines with a nutty sweetness for something truly unique to Vietnam. The garden setting offered a cool escape from the afternoon heat.
Evening: River Views and Night Markets
The Night Market in Old Town is probably the most crowded thing I’ve done in a long time. I didn’t love it but I’m glad I went.
There were more tourists in the evening because of day trips from nearby Da Nang. But even with the crowds, it was only about one-fifth as busy as during high season.
To take a breather we walked away from the crowds where many boat drivers aren’t as busy. One offered us a good price to have the entire boat to ourselves.
Seeing Hoi An from the water gives you a whole new perspective. The boat ride was only 10 minutes long but that was all that was needed.
The ancient buildings glow with hundreds of colorful lanterns after dark. Its a magical sight that makes Hoi An famous.
I finished my perfect day with Cao Lau from a street vendor. This dish is unique to Hoi An with thick noodles, pork and local greens.
The vendor tucked away in a small alley served some of the most authentic food I found.
Why Visit Hoi An
Hoi An offers something for everyone. The UNESCO World Heritage Site status protects its ancient buildings while allowing visitors to experience living history.
The food scene combines local specialties with Vietnamese classics. Each restaurant and street vendor adds their personal touch to traditional recipes.
June provides a good balance of weather and crowd size. You will deal with heat but enjoy more space to explore the narrow streets.
Would I Go Again?
Absolutely, I am already planning a trip. But this time we’ll stay out of Old Town. Outside the city on the way to the beach is filled with rice fields and I’ve heard it’s a whole new side to Hoi An.