This lantern lit ancient trading port is one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric towns, its riverside old quarter glowing each evening with thousands of colorful lanterns.

Why Visit Hoi An

Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserves centuries of trading history as a former international port where Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants once did business, reflected in its distinct blend of architectural styles. Each evening, the town’s streets and river fill with colorful silk lanterns, creating one of Vietnam’s most photographed nighttime scenes. The town is also Vietnam’s tailoring capital, where custom clothing can be made to order in as little as 24 hours.

Top Experiences

  • Ancient Town: a UNESCO listed old quarter blending Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural influences.
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: a 16th century bridge and Hoi An’s most iconic landmark.
  • Lantern Festival: a monthly full moon celebration when the town’s electric lights are turned off in favor of lanterns.
  • An Bang Beach: a relaxed beach a short bike ride from the Ancient Town.
  • Custom tailoring shops: hundreds of tailor shops able to produce custom clothing within 24 to 48 hours.

Book Hoi An Tours & Activities

Take a lantern making class, get custom clothing tailored, or cycle to An Bang Beach with guided tours from Hoi An.

Hoi An Cooking Class With Market Tour and Bamboo Basket Boat Ride

Hoi An Cooking Class With Market Tour and Bamboo Basket Boat Ride

★ 5.0 (199)
From USD 31
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Early morning Ba Na Hills - Golden Hand Bridge - PRIVATE TOUR

Early morning Ba Na Hills - Golden Hand Bridge - PRIVATE TOUR

★ 5.0 (184)
From USD 59
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Hoi An Eco Cooking Class With Kien Nguyen Cooking

Hoi An Eco Cooking Class With Kien Nguyen Cooking

★ 5.0 (154)
From USD 36
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Private Hoi An or Da Nang to Hue By Motorbike via Hai Van Pass

Private Hoi An or Da Nang to Hue By Motorbike via Hai Van Pass

★ 5.0 (117)
From USD 55.38
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Rural Hoi An Cycling, Cooking Class at Organic Farm

Rural Hoi An Cycling, Cooking Class at Organic Farm

★ 5.0 (147)
From USD 32.83
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Hoi An Street Food Tour - Eat like a local - PRIVATE TOUR

Hoi An Street Food Tour - Eat like a local - PRIVATE TOUR

★ 5.0 (132)
From USD 39
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Practical Tips

  • The monthly Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of the lunar month, offers the most atmospheric version of the town’s lantern displays.
  • Custom tailoring is a Hoi An specialty, but quality varies, ask for recommendations from your accommodation rather than choosing randomly.
  • The Ancient Town requires a ticket for entry to certain historic buildings, sold as a set covering multiple sites.
  • An Bang Beach is a pleasant 15 minute bike ride from the town center.

FAQ

Why is Hoi An famous for tailoring?
The town has a long history as a trading port and developed a specialty in custom clothing production, with hundreds of tailor shops able to produce garments within a day or two.

Is Hoi An worth visiting?
Yes, its UNESCO listed old quarter, lantern lit evenings, and beach access make it one of Vietnam’s most charming and popular towns.

Final Thoughts

Hoi An’s lantern lit evenings and blend of historic trading cultures make it one of the most photogenic and relaxing stops on any Vietnam itinerary.

Planning your trip? See our full Hoi An Travel Guide for top attractions, practical tips, and easy day trips.

Explore Attraction Reviews: Planning specific visits in Hoi An? See our detailed comparison guides: Hoi An Ancient Town Tours: Self-Guided Entry Ticket or Guided Walking Tour?.