Get ready to kick off an exciting day trip from Da Nang to Hoi An, where adventure and charm await at every turn! I visited Hoi An on multiple occasions and always love it.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just in love with beautiful places, I’m confident you’ll have a great time, and it doesn’t matter if you only have one day available.
In this guide, we’ll go through all the simple details like getting to Hoi An to more specific information like the things to do, the food you should try, and much more.
Day Trip from Da Nang to Hoi An: Overview
Before going through what to do on a day trip to Hoi An, let’s discuss a few essentials that you should know before coming, from Hoi An’s location to getting there and more.
Where is Hoi An?
Hoi An is a beautifully preserved historic town located in Central Vietnam, known for its mesmerizing blend of cultures and architectures. Nestled on the coast of the South China Sea, it’s a place where time seems to slow down.
The town is renowned for its well-preserved Ancient Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to landmarks spanning from the 15th to the 19th century, reflecting influences from both indigenous and foreign cultures.
How to Get to Hoi An from Da Nang?
Getting to Hoi An from Da Nang is straightforward and there are several options available.
The most convenient way is to take a Grab taxi, which is not only cheap but also comfortable and quick. The same goes with taking a shuttle bus to Hoi An from the city, Da Nang Airport or railway station.
If you prefer a more structured experience, joining a private tour can provide insights into the local culture and history along the way. Yes, that’s a little more expensive, but having a local guide that will show you around is excellent.
Lastly, you might consider renting a scooter to enjoy the scenic route at your own pace. However, I recommend this only for experienced riders due to the traffic challenges – Roads in Vietnam aren’t the safest for starters.
How to Get Around Hoi An?
It’s easy to visit Hoi An as the old town is very walkable. This allows you to appreciate the town’s charming architecture and markets at a leisurely pace.
For longer distances or when you’re simply looking to give your feet a rest, Grab taxis offer a convenient and affordable way to move around.
For a touch of local flavor, hiring a rickshaw, known locally as a cyclo, is a nice option. Not only does it offer a unique vantage point from which to see the city, but it also supports local drivers.
Is Hoi An Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Hoi An is a treasure waiting to be explored. This quaint town offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and beauty.
From the enchanting Ancient Town, illuminated by hundreds of colorful lanterns at night, to the tranquil countryside with lush rice paddies and serene rivers, you will love Hoi An.
Things to Do on a Day Trip to Hoi An
Now that you have a little more context and know the basics about Hoi An, let’s discuss the attractions in town, before going through the itinerary I suggest for a day out in Hoi An.
Wander Around Hoi An’s Old Town
Hoi An’s Old Town is a photographer’s paradise, and it’s the first thing you’ll notice when coming here. With its well-preserved French colonial architecture and quaint shops and cafes, the Old Town exudes a charm that is hard to resist.
A wander around the Old Town is a must for anyone visiting Hoi An. Start at the central market, where you can stock up on fresh produce and local snacks before making your way to the Japanese Bridge.
Built by Japanese traders in the 17th century, the bridge is one of the iconic places in Hoi An. From there, stroll down to the river and enjoy the views of the colorful boats that line the shore.
As you meander through the Old Town, take some time to pop into some of the shops and art galleries.
You’ll find everything from traditional Vietnamese crafts to contemporary art. And be sure to try some of the delicious local food!
See the Japanese Bridge
The Japanese Bridge is a must-see landmark in Hoi An, standing as a symbol of the town’s historical and cultural fusion. Built in the 17th century, this beautifully preserved bridge features intricate carvings and a unique architectural style that reflects Japanese influence.
Crossing the bridge offers a glimpse into Hoi An’s rich past, with its guardian statues and peaceful ambiance.
It’s not just a bridge but a piece of living history, connecting not only two parts of the town but also the diverse cultures that have shaped Hoi An over centuries.
Explore the Fujian Hall Assembly Hall
The Fujian Assembly Hall, originally a gathering spot for Chinese immigrants from Fujian province, is now a stunning example of Chinese architectural and spiritual heritage in Hoi An.
And that’s right – Hoi An is full of architecture from other places in Asia, and that’s what I particularly appreciate when coming.
With its elaborate gateway, vibrant courtyard, and ornate temple, the hall is a feast for the eyes. Visitors can admire the detailed woodwork, colorful murals, and intricate sculptures that adorn the complex.
The hall is an architectural marvel, hosting celebrations and offering insights into the traditions of the Chinese community in Vietnam. Exploring this hall is a journey through history and culture.
Get Your Tailor-made Suit
When it comes to finding the perfect suit, there’s no better place than Hoi An, Vietnam. This historic town is home to a wide variety of tailors, each with their own unique style. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai or a modern Western-style suit, you’ll be able to find it in Hoi An.
The best part is that most tailors in Hoi An offer custom-made suits at very reasonable prices, as low as $50! So if you want a one-of-a-kind suit that fits you like a glove to take back home, Hoi An is your place – you won’t be disappointed!
That being said, before accepting the quote and the suit, confirm exactly what you want with the sales assistant to get your dream suit and not a cheap representation. Also, you’ll get to choose the material, so check all the fabrics they have in store before paying.
Lastly, with so many tailors in Hoi An, you can always go to the shop next door if you’re not fully satisfied with the service or fabric.
Taste all the Best Vietnamese Food
When it comes to food, Vietnam is a paradise. There are so many delicious dishes to choose from, and each one is more mouth-watering than the last. Pho, bun cha, banh mi, spring rolls…the list goes on and on. And that’s not even mentioning all the amazing fruits and vegetables that are available year-round.
If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, Vietnam is the place to be. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring all the best that Vietnamese cuisine has to offer!
As a side note, I understand you may not feel comfortable eating street food or from local sellers at the market, especially if that’s your first time in Vietnam, and I’ve been there too. For this reason, you will want to get with a local and try the safest street food in town, instead of go to a random shop, which is the safest option.
See the Lanterns at Night
After eating the best Vietnamese dinner so far, I highly recommend exploring the old city and see the lanterns all around town – This is when you’ll see why Hoi An is one of the places to visit in Southeast Asia.
Plus, if you’re looking for something unique to take home with you, why not make your own lantern? There are workshops available where you can learn how to craft your own traditional Vietnamese paper lantern.
You’ll get to choose from a variety of colors and designs, so it’s sure to be a special memento from your trip.
To end the night, make your way to the Thu Bon river for a boat trip, an absolute must-do when in Hoi An – let me tell you more about it below.
1-Day Itinerary for Hoi An
While you can spend a few days in Hoi An, I understand that you may not have a lot of time or want to stay in Da Nang instead. For this reason, here’s a day trip itinerary you can follow to see the key spots in town.
- 08:00 AM: Arrive from Da Nang and explore Hoi An ancient town. There aren’t many people around at this time, which is great for taking photos.
- 09.00 AM: Have breakfast with river views at Lily’s Pancake Restaurant. Make sure to try the pancakes with mango and coconut!
- 10:00 AM: Visit the Fujian Hall Assembly Hall, the Old House of Tan Ky, and the Museum of Folk Culture
- 12:00 PM: See Hoi An’s Traditional Art Performance
- 1:30 PM: Sign up for a Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class in Hoi An
- 07:00 PM: Dinner at Morning Glory Original, one of the best meals I’ve had in town!
- 08:00 PM: Take a walk along the Thu Bon River and get on a boat at night
- 09:00 PM: Discover the local market at night in Hoi An and get back to Da Nang for the night!
Best Food in Hoi An
I recommend a couple of restaurants in Hoi An, but what I haven’t discussed this far is the food options, and being an international destination, you’ll find countless options in town.
Here are some must-try Vietnamese dishes in Hoi An:
- Cao Lầu: This iconic Hoi An dish consists of thick rice noodles, succulent slices of pork, fresh greens, and crispy croutons, all soaked in a light, flavorful broth.
- Bánh Mì Hội An: While bánh mì can be found throughout Vietnam, Hoi An’s version of this French-influenced baguette sandwich is exceptional. Make sure to stop at Bánh Mì Phượng!
- Mì Quảng: This noodle dish features a small amount of broth, made with fish sauce, black pepper, and garlic. It’s served with noodles, topped with a choice of meats like chicken, beef, or shrimp, and garnished with fresh herbs and peanuts.
- White Rose Dumplings: These delicate shrimp dumplings are named for their flower-like appearance. They are steamed and served with a unique sauce made from chillies, shrimp broth, lemon, and sugar.
- Hoi An Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà Hội An): A simple yet flavorful dish, this is Hoi An’s take on chicken rice. The rice is cooked in chicken broth and turmeric, served with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a spicy chili sauce.
- Grilled Pork Wrapped in Rice Paper (Thịt Nướng): This interactive dish involves wrapping slices of grilled pork, fresh vegetables, and herbs in rice paper. It’s dipped in a savory peanut sauce for a mix of textures and flavors that’s both fresh and satisfying.
- Sweet Soup (Chè): A popular dessert in Hoi An, chè is a sweet soup that can be served hot or cold. It comes in various flavors, including mung bean, black sesame, and tapioca fruit, often topped with coconut cream.
Each of these dishes offers a taste of Hoi An’s rich culinary landscape, blending historical influences with local ingredients for unforgettable flavors.
Day Trip to Hoi An – FAQ
Last but not least, I want to cover some more questions that first-timers often have when coming to Hoi An and that may help you too.
Is the Hoi An Entrance Pass Worth it?
Yes, the Hoi An Entrance Pass is definitely worth the investment if you want to dive deep into the town’s cultural and historical heritage.
You can get the pass for 120,000 VND, which is approximately 6 USD, and it gives you access to several of Hoi An’s most iconic attractions, including the Fujian Assembly Hall and the Hoi An art performance show.
Note that the offices to buy the entrance pass only open around 9.30-10 in the morning, and I recommend pre-booking it online to avoid the hassle and getting lost finding it around town.
Is Hoi An Expensive?
No, Hoi An is quite affordable, and you’ll find plenty of tourist attractions and places to eat if you travel on a budget.
From budget-friendly street food to affordable accommodation options that range from hostels to mid-range hotels, I’m confident you’ll find your happiness.
Even shopping for souvenirs, tailor-made clothing, and getting local tours and workshops can be done without spending a fortune, and this is only one reason I love Hoi An.
Should You Stay in Da Nang or 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 ancient town situated about 30 kilometers southeast of Da Nang.
- Atmosphere: Da Nang has a more modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere with skyscrapers, 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 World Heritage-listed Ancient 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.
Where to Stay in Hoi An?
Since I recommend staying in Hoi An for one night before going to My Son on day 4, let’s discuss the best hotels in town so that you make your stay a comfortable one.
You’ll want to stay as close as the old town as possible so you don’t have to walk far from the night market and river, where the magic happens!
Luxury: Bay Resort Hoi An
In Hoi An, Bay Resort offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, private parking, and room service. Facilities include free bikes, an outdoor pool, fitness center, and 24-hour front desk services.
Rooms feature a seating area, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and electric tea pot.
Some have terraces and city views. Enjoy a buffet breakfast and Mediterranean, Pizza, Seafood cuisine with various dietary options. The resort is close to local attractions and 19 miles from Da Nang International Airport.
Mid-Range: Hoian Central Hotel
Just a 2-minute walk from the Assembly Hall of Chaozhou Chinese Congregation in Hoi An, Hoian Central Hotel offers free bikes, parking, an outdoor pool, and a garden.
This 3-star hotel features air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, a terrace, and free WiFi. Located near Hoi An Historic Museum and Japanese Covered Bridge, it’s 19 miles from Da Nang International Airport.
Budget: Thanh Van 1 Hotel
Located in Hoi An’s Old Town, close to An Bang Beach, Thanh Van 1 Hotel offers free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms with garden views, private bathrooms, and modern amenities.
Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant, bar, and various services like room service and laundry. The hotel’s tour desk can help organize local excursions.
Conclusion: Day Trip to Hoi An from Da Nang
And just like that, your day trip from Da Nang to Hoi An comes to an end. I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the enchanting streets, savor the tantalizing flavors, and soak in the rich history and culture of Hoi An.
As you head back to Da Nang, carry with you not just souvenirs, but a heart full of memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and heritage of this ancient town.
Thanks for reading until the end, and have a fabulous time in Hoi An!
