Hoi An is one of those places in Vietnam where you don’t need a packed itinerary to have a great time. The historic Old Town is easy to explore on foot, while the surrounding countryside, beaches, rivers and villages offer plenty of experiences beyond the ancient streets.

From walking through the lantern-lit Old Town and tasting local specialties to cycling through rice fields and taking a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, there are many things to do in Hoi An for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike.

If you’re planning a trip to Central Vietnam, here are some of the best experiences to add to your Hoi An itinerary.

1. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

The best place to start your Hoi An experience is the Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its preserved architecture, colorful lanterns and historic trading-port atmosphere.

Take your time walking through the narrow streets and discover old merchant houses, small temples, traditional shops and cafés hidden inside centuries-old buildings.

Some of the most famous sights include the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Ancient House, Phung Hung Ancient House and the Fujian Assembly Hall.

The Old Town is particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon when the temperature becomes more comfortable and the streets gradually come alive with lanterns.

Tip: Go early in the morning if you want quieter streets and better opportunities for photographs.

2. Walk across the Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of Hoi An’s most recognizable landmarks.

Built several centuries ago, the bridge connects the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the old trading town and has become an iconic symbol of Hoi An.

Although it only takes a few minutes to cross, the surrounding streets are worth exploring. You’ll find old houses, souvenir shops, cafés and plenty of opportunities to see the architectural details that make Hoi An different from other destinations in Vietnam.

For photography, the bridge and nearby streets are especially beautiful around sunset and after dark when the lanterns are illuminated.

3. Experience Hoi An at night

Hoi An becomes a completely different destination after sunset.

Traditional lanterns illuminate the streets, old yellow buildings glow under warm lights, and the Thu Bon River becomes the center of the evening atmosphere.

Walking around the Old Town at night is one of the simplest—and most memorable—things to do in Hoi An.

You can stop for Vietnamese coffee, try local street food, browse small shops or simply sit by the river and watch the boats pass by.

If your visit coincides with the Hoi An Lantern Festival, the atmosphere can be even more special, with colorful lanterns and traditional activities around the Old Town.

4. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River

The Thu Bon River has played an important role in Hoi An’s history as a trading port.

Today, visitors can take a short boat trip along the river, particularly around sunset or in the evening.

A sunset boat ride offers a more peaceful way to experience Hoi An, while a traditional lantern boat ride at night is popular with couples and families.

For the best experience, try to go around sunset when the sky begins to change color and the Old Town starts lighting up.

5. Ride a basket boat in Cam Thanh Coconut Village

Just a short drive from the Old Town, Cam Thanh Coconut Village offers a very different side of Hoi An.

The area is famous for its water coconut forest and traditional round basket boats.

During a basket boat tour, local boatmen take visitors through the waterways surrounded by coconut palms. Some tours also include demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques and basket-boat skills.

This is a particularly fun experience for families and travelers who want to spend a few hours outside the historic center.

Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon, when the weather is generally more comfortable.

6. Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

For a slower and more local experience, head to Tra Que Vegetable Village, located between Hoi An Ancient Town and An Bang Beach.

The village is known for growing herbs and vegetables using traditional farming methods.

Visitors can walk or cycle around the fields, meet local farmers and, depending on the tour, participate in simple farming activities.

Many cooking tours also combine Tra Que with a Vietnamese cooking class, giving you the chance to learn how some of Hoi An’s famous dishes are prepared.

7. Relax at An Bang Beach

If you need a break from sightseeing, spend a few hours at An Bang Beach.

Located around 4–5 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang is one of the area’s most popular beaches.

You can swim, relax on the sand, enjoy fresh seafood or find a beachfront café for a drink.

An Bang is particularly enjoyable in the morning and late afternoon, when you can avoid the strongest midday heat.

For travelers staying several nights in Hoi An, combining the Old Town with a beach day is an easy way to slow down the itinerary.

8. Cycle through Hoi An’s countryside

One of the best ways to see Hoi An beyond the tourist center is by bicycle.

The countryside around Hoi An is relatively flat, making it suitable for relaxed cycling.

You can ride through rice fields, small villages, vegetable gardens and quiet lanes while seeing everyday life away from the busy Old Town.

A half-day cycling tour can usually combine several attractions, such as Tra Que Vegetable Village, Cam Thanh and local farming communities.

Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat.