7 Amazing Things to Do in Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming Vietnamese city that is 45 minutes away from the Da Nang city center. It was a pivotal trading port from the 15th-19th centuries, and you can see the unique Chinese, Japanese, and European influences throughout the lantern-lined streets. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, and it's historic beauty draws nearly 4 million tourists a year.
The city is walkable, and here is a list of 7 things to do to make the most of your visit if your ship has a late sail or overnight.
1. Have a coffee
Vietnamese coffee is whole different breed of caffeine. A small, thick, motor-oil-esq cup of Vietnamese joe will get you buzzing and ready to tackle the world. Hoi An has quaint coffee shops lining the roads, and while you can opt for a hard-core Vietnamese brew, you can also enjoy a latte, cappuccino, or americano while leisurely soaking up the ambiance.
OUR CHOICE: Cocobox has a few locations in Hoi An, and while they serve up good coffee, they also have incredible fresh smoothies and juices that are ideal after a hot afternoon of exploring
2. Eat a Banh Mi
Getting a banh mi in Vietnam is like ordering a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia, it’s just something you have to do. After all, how can you say know to dirt cheap, delicious local food?
This quintessential Vietnamese dish was a product of French Colonialism in the 1800s as the French were looking to maintain their own European diet. However, the Vietnamese people were unable to afford the pricey imported bread, meats, and cheeses, and therefore it represented repression and divide. When the French left and Vietnam divided into two in 1954, the Vietnamese replaced the expensive meats and cheeses with local vegetables, mayo, spices, and herbs to make a cheap, calorie dense dish that catered to the hustling Vietnamese life. Bahn mi spread to the rest of the world as millions of Vietnamese people fled the country with the fall of Saigon in 1975.
You’ll pass by many banh mi carts in Hoi An, but if you are a foodie, consider trying Banh Mi Phuong and Madam Khahn- The Bahn Mi Queen. These two shops are rivals for the spot of Hoi An’s best banh mi; be a part of the conversation and weigh in your opinions!
3. Take a boat ride at night
As the sun goes down, the lanterns light up to reveal the true beauty of Hoi An. Find yourself in the middle of the magic by taking a boat ride down the river as night falls. It will only set you back a few dollars and will leave a lasting impression.
4. Light a lantern
Add you stamp on Hoi An by lighting a lantern to send down the river. It is said to bring good fortune, love, health, and happiness. Regardless of your beliefs, it's nearly impossible to be sad while sending a lantern off in the magical nighttime scene,
5. See the Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Bridge is an iconic Hoi An attraction that was built in the 18th century as a way for the Japanese to get to the Chinese quarter on the other side of the river. The wooden structure is intricately carved, and be sure to note the pair of monkey statues on one side and dogs on the other!
6. Visit the market
Hoi An has a thriving market with fruits, vegetables, textiles, woods, spices, and everything in between. Walk through to get a taste the local culture, and keep an eye peeled for new exciting foods you may have never seen before.
7. Sit and watch the world go by
Get a craft beer or cocktail at a restaurant with sidewalk seating and watch the world go by. Hoi An is an iconic travel destination, and you will see all sorts of people passing by under the stunning lanterns. Travel can be non-stop with a go, go, go mentally as you rush to see everything. So take a moment to slow down, unwind, and appreciate the experience.
Final Thoughts...
Hoi An has countless travel opportunities with museums, pagodas, restaurants, and hidden alleyways, these seven things are simply place for you to start. You'll undoubtedly fall in love with this Vietnamese city, and it will be a port to remember.
