Planning a trip to Central Vietnam? If so, spending 2 days in Hoi An is an absolute must!
From its ancient streets lined with lanterns to its playful beaches, Hoi An has something for everyone. If you’re planning a visit to Hoi An, this three-day itinerary covers the best that the city has to offer.
I spent several days in Hoi An myself, and it was enough to visit around, take a try to My Son Sanctuary and a lantern-making class, among other activities, and meet super friendly locals.
So here’s the complete 2-day Hoi An itinerary you need for the perfect Vietnam trip!
2 Days in Hoi An Itinerary – Overview
Before starting this itinerary, let’s discuss the essentials you should know before coming, such as Hoi An’s location, getting there, and more.
Where is Hoi An?
Hoi An is a beautiful city located in Vietnam, just 25km south of Da Nang. It is known for its charming lantern-lit streets of the old town, and it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hoi An Vietnam Map
If you’re wondering how Hoi An town looks like, here it is, you can zoom in and out:
Is Hoi An Worth Visiting?
Hoi An is absolutely worth visiting. Located in the central Quang Nam Province, this ancient town has been designated as a World Heritage Site for its well-preserved architecture and cultural significance.
From ornate Chinese temples to wooden shophouses to old canals, Hoi An offers a breathtaking mix of sights and experiences, and you can spend a few hours visiting the old town only.
And let’s not forget the ancient town that gets illuminated at night with all the lamps – This only makes Hoi An the perfect travel destination for one or more days.
How to Get to Hoi An?
The closest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang Airport (DAD), and it’s also the nearest city, and you can take a flight from all over Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
From here, you can easily reach Hoi An, and these are the different options:
Shuttle Bus or Private Car from Da Nang
The most popular way to get to Hoi An is with a shuttle bus (US$5.50 per person) or a private transfer (US$19 for 2 people). Choosing between a shuttle bus and a private car from Da Nang is all about priorities: cost efficiency or convenience.
Shuttle buses are budget-friendly and offer a chance to meet fellow travelers, ideal for those on a tight budget and open schedules.
Private cars, however, provide the luxury of exploring at your own pace with comfort, perfect for those willing to splurge a bit for a personalized experience. Both options have their perks, making your trip around Da Nang memorable in their unique ways.
Calling a Taxi
Alternatively, calling a taxi on Grab is a good way to get to Hoi An and will cost you about 350k VND, or about $15 one way. That said, the shuttle bus here above is cheaper, and I recommend that instead if you travel on a budget.
By Scooter from Da Nang
Renting a motorbike from Da Nang is a good option if you know how to drive. This is particularly important as traffic in Vietnam is pretty wild, and the last thing you want is to end up in a hospital while on vacation.
The regular price for a motorbike rental in Da Nang is around 100k VND (about US$4) per day, which is reasonable.
Related Guide!
Check out this guide about coming
from Da Nang to Hoi An for 1 day.
Complete 2-Day Hoi An Itinerary
We finally made it to the main section of this 2-day Hoi An itinerary. Before jumping into the first day, let me give you a bit of context and tell you my own experience.
I stayed in Da Nang and rented a motorbike (I drove scooters for years, do not drive in Vietnam if you’re a beginner) and went to Hoi An for a few days. This itinerary reflects my personal experience and the things I did.
A word of caution: To see the temples, visit the museums, and explore the authentic houses in Hoi An Old Town, you’ll have to book the entrance ticket, which costs 120k VND, or about US$5, and includes the entrance to 5 attractions.
This is not mandatory, and you will only get asked for the ticket when entering each attraction. You can buy the ticket at some little yellow houses, as shown below – However, the language barrier is sometimes an issue, and you’ll get the same price booking online, so I recommend this option.
Note that I will list more than 5 attractions on this list, but if you decide to follow this full itinerary, you’ll be able to buy individual tickets at some spots, like the Hainan Assembly Hall or Guan Di Temple.
Each tourist attraction takes no more than 15 to 30 minutes (that’s why this itinerary isn’t rushed), and it’s a great way to see the remains of Japanese and Chinese communities from the old days in Hoi An.
With that in mind, let’s get started with this 2 day in Hoi An itinerary!
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Day 1: Hoi An Old Town and Museums
Start the day by exploring Hoi An’s vibrant Central Market, the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local culture.
From fishing boats to farmers selling their wares, this vibrant market is a great way to kick off your first day in Hoi An.
After a stop at the Central Market, make your way to the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An’s many cultural influences and a great spot for photos. From here, take a stroll to the Fujian Assembly Hall, a local spot where Chinese settlers come together to worship their gods.
After a peek inside, end the day with a visit to the Nguyen Hoang Night Market, a great spot for food, fashion, and fun.
Morning: Explore Hoi An Old Town
Start your day wandering through Hoi An Old Town, and I recommend coming early to avoid the crowds and take beautiful photos before visiting the temples.
This area is recognized by UNESCO, and you’ll find narrow lanes lined with centuries-old houses that reflect the blend of local and foreign influences from when Hoi An was a bustling trading port, from the 15th to the 19th century.
It’s a peaceful place in the morning, mostly free from motorized vehicles, allowing you to really soak in the vibe. Grab a coffee from a street vendor, and let the ancient town’s story unfold as you meander through its streets.
Related Guide!
Check out this guide about great
things to do in Hoi An Vietnam.
Morning: Discover the Central Market
Coming to Hoi An’s Central Market is like stepping into the heartbeat of the city. The market is where the energy of Hoi An really shines through.
From early in the morning, both locals and visitors gather here, creating a lively atmosphere filled with vibrant colors and smells (get ready to smell some fermented shrimp paste in the streets though!).
The market is divided into 2 sections – The outdoor and the indoor part. The outside part is all about fresh produce, fabrics and t-shirts, and handcrafted goods.
You’re greeted with smiles and the occasional friendly haggle, which makes the whole experience more unique.
On the other hand, the inside part has clothes, copy goods, jewels and souvenirs, as well as lanterns – But don’t buy one yet, as the next stop is a lantern-making class!
💶 Entrance Fee: Free
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 6 AM to 8 PM (most stalls are open from 8 AM to 5 PM)
Morning: Take a Lantern-Making Class
Joining a lantern-making class is not just an activity; it’s a way to engage with a piece of Hoi An’s cultural heritage. The town is renowned for its beautiful lanterns that adorn the streets and light up the night with their warm glow.
Buying one is nice to bring a memory of your trip to Vietnam back home, but getting the one you personally made is even cooler!
In these classes, you’re not only taught the technique of crafting these iconic lanterns but also the story behind their significance in Vietnamese culture.
Beyond the craft itself, it’s a peaceful moment to reflect and appreciate the beauty of tradition. Truth be told, it’s not easy and I got a little impatient at first, but the instructor was super friendly and helped me a lot, which was very nice!
The class lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour, which is enough to have a laugh and make the most of your time in Hoi An in 2 days!
Morning: Hoi An Traditional Art Performance House
Cap off your morning with a cultural treat at the Hoi An Traditional Art Performance House, by the river, and this again is included in the Hoi An Entrance Ticket.
Here, you can experience the soul of Vietnamese culture through its music and dance. The performances include a variety of traditional art forms, from folk music to puppetry, all showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
It’s a captivating way to get acquainted with the artistic expressions that have been passed down through generations. The intimate setting allows for an immersive experience, making it a memorable part of your visit to Hoi An.
There are 3 shows during the day: one at 10.15 AM, another one at 3.15 PM, and the last one at 4.15 PM. If you don’t have time to see the morning one, then I recommend coming at 3.00 PM for the afternoon show.
💶 Entrance Fee: Included in the Hoi An entrance ticket
🕗 Opening Hours: Shows at 10.15 AM, 3.15 PM and 4.15 PM
Lunch at Cargo Club Restaurant
Cargo Club Restaurant is a must when you’re in Hoi An, and that’s a great place for either lunch or dinner. We had lunch here and the Lau Cao Noodle, a specialty from Hoi An, was excellent.
This spot is famous for its fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors with a modern twist, serving up dishes that are both familiar and excitingly new.
The restaurant itself is set in a beautifully restored French colonial building, offering stunning views of the Thu Bon River (if you come early enough to secure a seat outside, otherwise, seats inside are equally comfortable).
It’s the perfect place to unwind after a morning of exploring, with a menu that boasts an impressive selection of pastries, cakes, and desserts, making it a paradise for those with a sweet tooth.
But it’s not just about the sweets; the savory dishes are equally outstanding, featuring local ingredients and fresh seafood that will leave you wanting more.
Lastly, when you visit, you’ll get a 10% discount on your next visit, which is always nice!
Afternoon: Pass By the Japanese Bridge
The Japanese Bridge, or Chùa Cầu, is an iconic landmark in Hoi An, standing as a testament to the town’s historical and cultural melting pot.
Built in the 16th century by the Japanese community, this bridge has been well-preserved, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and a unique blend of Japanese and Vietnamese architecture.
Its purpose was to connect the Japanese quarter with the Chinese quarters, across a small stream, symbolizing peace and friendship between the two communities. The bridge is also home to a small temple dedicated to the Taoist god of weather, showing the spiritual significance placed on it by the locals.
Over the years, it has become a must-see spot for anyone visiting Hoi An, embodying the town’s rich history and the harmonious blend of cultures that have thrived there.
Note: The Bridge is currently under renovation and is set to reopen at the end of 2024 or the beginning of 2025, so it may be still closed if you visit before that.
Afternoon: Fujian Assembly Hall (Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien)
The Fujian Assembly Hall, also known as Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien, is a must-see attraction when you visit Hoi An, and it’s right in the heart of old town.
Built around 1690, it serves as a traditional assembly hall for the Chinese ethnic group from Fujian. The hall covers an impressive 2000 square meters of land, and its architecture represents the iconic design of Fujian artistry.
The building is filled with statues of animals that symbolize qualities such as wisdom, longevity, and prosperity.
Inside, you can explore rooms dedicated to various gods and deities, each decorated with colorful paintings and carvings.
The Fujian Assembly Hall is one of the most popular attractions in Hoi An and should not be missed on any itinerary. It’s a great way to get a glimpse into the culture and history of this ancient city.
Plus, it’s a very cool place for photos!
💶 Entrance Fee: Included in the Hoi An entrance ticket
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 7 AM to 6 PM
Afternoon: See the Hainan Assembly Hall
Exploring the Hainan Assembly Hall is to witness a spectacular piece of Hoi An’s architecture and history.
The Assembly Hall of the Hainan Chinese Congregation was established in 1851 as a memorial for 108 merchants from Hainan Island who were killed for being mistaken as pirates.
Inside, you can find plaques in their honor, as well as a nice garden area, a main hall with Chinese Buddhist figures, and a few interior sections reflecting the old Chinese lifestyle.
The Assembly Hall is open daily from 8 AM and the entrance is included in the Hoi An Entrance Pass, so that’s your chance to visit it!
💶 Entrance Fee: Included with the Hoi An Entrance Pass
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
Evening: Visit the Night Market
As the sun sets, the Hoi An Night Market comes alive, and you’re in for a vibrant show of colors, scents, and sounds. Located on Nguyen Hoang Street, right opposite the Japanese Bridge this bustling market is the perfect place to experience local life.
Stroll through rows of stalls selling everything from handcrafted lanterns to delicious street food. It’s an ideal spot to pick up souvenirs, with artisans offering a variety of local crafts and goods.
Of course, you won’t miss the lit lanterns, which are literally on every corner, and that makes Hoi An night market one of the best ones in Southeast Asia!
Don’t miss out on trying some local delicacies, like ice cream, white rose dumplings, and many more!
💶 Entrance Fee: Free
🕗 Opening Hours: Daily from 6 PM to 10 PM
Evening: Take a Boat Trip on the Bach Dang River
Conclude your day with a boat trip on the Bach Dang River. As night falls, the river becomes a magical place, with the lights from the town and lanterns from other boats reflecting on the water.
Glide past historical landmarks and under illuminated bridges, soaking in the views. It’s also an opportunity to release a lantern into the river, a local tradition believed to bring good luck and happiness.
The boat ride only costs 100k VND for 2 people or 150k for 4 people, and that is great value for money, as you’ll love the ride! I personally took it and was on the boat for about 20 minutes before going back to my hotel for the night.
Day 2: My Son Sanctuary, Cooking Class, Beaches
Day 2 in Hoi An is all about activities, and you’ll want to go to My Son Sanctuary for a sunrise trip, and then join a cycling tour or a boat trip along the river. Spoiler alert: you’re in for a treat!
Morning – OPTION 1: Sunrise Tour to My Son Sanctuary
Kicking off your day with a sunrise tour to My Son Sanctuary is an experience that’s both mystical and enlightening, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time, despite the early wake-up call.
As the sun rises, it bathes the ancient Hindu temples in a soft, golden light, showcasing the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in a way that few get to see.
These ruins, nestled in a lush jungle setting, were once the capital of the Champa Kingdom and offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural past. The early morning visit not only beats the crowds and the heat but also adds an element of tranquility to the exploration.
The best way to visit it join a tour with a professional guide who’ll tell you everything about the complex and its history, and it includes transportation too, which is a massive plus, as My Son is located about a 1-hour drive from Hoi An.
Morning – OPTION 2: Vietnamese Cooking Class
If you’re keen on learning more about Vietnam’s food scene, a morning Vietnamese cooking class is the way to go.
Starting with a trip to the local market to get herbs, fresh fish or meat, you’ll get hands-on experience selecting the ingredients, and learning about their importance in Vietnamese cuisine.
Back in the kitchen, the chef guides you through traditional recipes, sharing secrets passed down through generations. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about understanding the flavors that define Vietnamese food.
By lunchtime, you’ll have whipped up a feast of local dishes, which you’ll enjoy with newfound friends. It’s a deliciously rewarding experience that leaves you with not just a full belly but also skills to bring a taste of Vietnam into your own kitchen!
Plus, if you haven’t had the time to do the basket boat ride on day 2, this cooking class includes it, which is amazing!
Afternoon – OPTION 1: Go on a Cycling Tour in Hoi An
An afternoon cycling tour in Hoi An is the perfect way to see the town and its surroundings from a different perspective.
Pedaling through the countryside, you’ll pass green rice paddies, traditional villages, and local markets, witnessing everyday life in Vietnam away from the tourist paths.
It’s an active yet relaxed way to explore, with plenty of stops to learn about local crafts, sample street food, or just take in stunning landscapes.
Cycling allows you to cover more ground than walking, yet it’s intimate enough to feel connected to the places you visit. And you’ll get to see farmers and their buffaloes, which is a unique experience, and definitely the real taste of Vietnam you’re in the country for!
Read More Here
Check out this guide about taking
a cycling tour in Hoi An.
Afternoon – OPTION 2: Spend the Afternoon at An Bang Beach
After a stunning tour in the morning, you might want to hit the beach, and there are 2 beaches in town that you can’t miss – Cua Dai and An Bang Beach.
Cua Dai Beach is a stunning beach that is the perfect combination of white sand, crystal-clear water, and lush willow trees. It is the most laid-back beach of the 2, but there isn’t much to do.
On the other hand, for a more active beach getaway, An Bang is the place.
It’s usually a lot more crowded than Cua Dai, but that means you can rent sunbeds and chairs, hire boogie boards, go surfing, and, of course, work on your tan.
I recommend relaxing and having a drink at Cua Dai Beach first and then heading over to An Bang Beach for sunset – this is the ultimate afternoon!
I personally went there twice, in the early morning and early afternoon. There were a ton of people in the morning playing and swimming, while it was a lot quieter in the afternoon, but expect to see more crowds around sunset time.
Afternoon – OPTION 3: Take a Basket Boat Cruise on the Thu Bon River
Taking a basketboat cruise through Hoi An is an adventure that’s as fun as it sounds. These round, bamboo boats are a traditional mode of transport, and cruising in one offers a unique perspective on the landscapes and local life along the rivers and canals.
With a local guiding your boat, you’ll navigate through tranquil waters, past mangroves, and maybe even into hidden corners you wouldn’t discover otherwise.
It’s a chance to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the area, and it’s a must-do while visiting in Hoi An!
This experience is a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and light-hearted fun. Plus, the whole experience only lasts about 2 hours, which is great after having the best banh mi in town!
Join an Evening Walking Food Tour
Before exploring Hoi An Old Town at night, you’ll want to have dinner, and joining an Evening Walking Food Tour is the best way to discover delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
You’ll get to experience the best of Hoi An’s culinary scene in an intimate setting with a small group and be guided by a local guide who will take you to hand-picked food hotspots and explain the best dishes.
The tour takes place at 5.00 PM, so it’s a great way to spend your first night in Hoi An. You’ll get to try some of the local specialties, such as noodles, fresh spring rolls, sandwiches, barbecues, pancakes, and more.
Other Things to Do in Hoi An
There are so many things to do in Hoi An, and coming for a day from Da Nang or spending only 2 days in town is not enough for most people to see all the spots on their bucket list.
If you have more time available in Hoi An, these are popular things to do:
- Hoi An Memories Show
- Visit the Cantonese Assembly Hall
- Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
- Fujian Assembly Hall (Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien)
- Get a Custom-Made Suit or Dress at tailor shops
- Lunch at Banh Mii Phuong (best in town, known for Anthony Bourdain series)
Want to know more?
Check out this guide about all the
tourist attractions in Hoi An.
Hoi An Itinerary 2 Days – FAQ
An itinerary of Hoi An wouldn’t be complete without more information, and this is exactly what this extra section with FAQs from first-time visitors is all about!
How Long to Stay in Hoi An?
When traveling to Central Vietnam, I recommend spending at least 3 days in Hoi An – While 2 days in Hoi An are enough to see the main tourist attractions, extending by one day is great to take your time and see more museums in town.
During your stay, spend ample time exploring the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts stunning architecture, ancient temples, and a vibrant market scene.
Da Nang VS Hoi An
Da Nang and Hoi An are two popular destinations in Vietnam, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Here are the key differences between the two for a short trip of a few days.
- Location: Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city located in central Vietnam, while Hoi An is a charming town situated about 30 kilometers southeast of Da Nang.
- Atmosphere: Da Nang has a more modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere with skyscrapers, high-end resorts, bustling streets, and lively nightlife. Hoi An, on the other hand, retains its old-world charm with well-preserved historic buildings, lantern-lit streets, and a relaxed ambiance.
- Beaches: Da Nang boasts beautiful sandy beaches, including My Khe Beach, which is one of Asia’s best beaches. Hoi An, although not directly on the coast, is just a short distance away from An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach.
- Cultural Heritage: Hoi An is renowned for its well-preserved UNESCO-listed Town. It is a pedestrian-friendly area with narrow streets lined with historic buildings, Chinese temples, Japanese merchant houses, and charming cafes and shops. Da Nang, while it lacks the same level of historical heritage, has its own attractions, such as the iconic Dragon Bridge, and Marble Mountains.
Overall, Da Nang offers a modern city experience with stunning beaches, while Hoi An is a charming ancient town with a rich cultural heritage.
Choosing between the two depends on your preferences, but it’s worth noting that Da Nang and Hoi An are located close to each other, making it possible to visit both within a short trip.
How to Get Around Hoi An?
The best way to get around Hoi An is by foot, as the old town is very walkable. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle (many hotels do rent or offer one for free) which is a nice way to explore around.
That said, if you decide to pedal around, I recommend doing so in the early morning, as the town gets very busy in the afternoon.
Lastly, for a more unique ride, you can get a rickshaw, as shown in the photo below, which is an effortless and convenient way to roam around Hoi An!
Where to Stay in Hoi An?
Hoi An has dozens of accommodation options to choose from, and these are the best you should consider when staying in town:
Luxury: Bay Resort Hoi An
Mid-Range: Hoi An Historic Hotel
Budget: Thanh Van 1 Hotel
Final Thoughts – 2-Day Itinerary Hoi An
Hoi An is a stunning, charming, and historic city in Vietnam that beckons exploration – and with 2 days in Hoi An, you can explore most of the wonderful sights in town and beyond.
I hope this ultimate Hoi An itinerary was helpful and that you will, just like me, make the most of your time here enjoying the different activities apart from the old town.
With its convenient transportation, relaxed atmosphere, budget-friendly hotels, and swanky resorts, Hoi An is ideal for an unforgettable vacation. Whether you come for a family vacation or with a group of friends, you’ll have a great time here!
