Hoi An – A tourist hotspot full of lanterns

Hoi An - Cua Dai Strand

Hoi An – a city that looks like a living postcard motif. Colorful lanterns, historic alleyways and a touch of tradition meet an extremely touristy atmosphere here. Whether for the enjoyment of Vietnamese craftsmanship and tailoring, mostly Western cuisine or relaxed bike tours into the surrounding countryside – Hoi An offers you a mixture of history and experience. However, as you will soon find out, nothing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site is truly authentic.

Getting from Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An

Hoi An does not have its own airport, so the journey is via Da Nang, which is about 30 km away. There are several options from Ho Chi Minh City.

Direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Da Nang (DAD) take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air or Bamboo Airways offer several daily connections. Prices are around 30-80 € depending on the season and time of booking.

By train

The Reunification Express runs from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang in around 17 hours. The train ride is a scenic and time-consuming option. Highly recommended if you’re not stressed!

Price: 15-60 €, depending on the class.

Bus:

An inexpensive option (around €10-20), but the journey takes around 24 hours. Sleeper buses are recommended for more comfort. And comfort here really means lying on a nice mattress, stretching out your legs and sleeping!


Either way: From Da Nang, you can get to Hoi An by cab (approx. €15), bus or private shuttle. Particularly practical: the cab service provider Grab, which offers affordable and reliable rides. Alternatively, there is Xemh SM, which operates exclusively with electric vehicles.

Imagine: Three weeks full of adventure, enjoyment and insights into the fascinating culture of Vietnam – and I do all the organizing! Together we discover authentic places, taste the best local food and stay in luxurious accommodation (subject to availability). Whether it’s vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes or hidden gems – I’ll customize the trip according to your wishes to make it unforgettable. Let’s experience the authentic Vietnamese way of life – stylish, enjoyable and intense. Ready for your Vietnam adventure? Write to me!

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What to do and see in Hoi An

Hoi An Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, impresses with its well-preserved historic houses, temples and meeting halls. In the evening, countless colorful lanterns light up and conjure up a magical atmosphere. A stroll through the alleyways feels like a journey back in time.
The Japanese Bridge a landmark of Hoi An, was built in the 17th century. It connects two parts of the city. The ornate carvings and the history of this bridge are particularly impressive for culturally interested travelers.

Cua Dai beach is the perfect place to end the day: Sunbathing, fresh seafood and the sound of the sea offer pure relaxation.

Tra Que Vegetable Village is an ideal excursion for nature lovers: plant vegetables, experience traditional farming and enjoy a delicious Vietnamese meal.

Who is Hoi An suitable for?

Hoi An is ideal for travelers who appreciate historical architecture, craftsmanship and a relaxed atmosphere. Nature lovers will enjoy cycling tours to the surrounding villages. The city is less suitable for anyone looking for authentic Vietnamese culture, as tourism is very present here. I recommend staying a maximum of 3 days and definitely cycling into the surrounding countryside, watching the farmers, marveling at the water buffaloes and experiencing the local, quiet life of the Vietnamese.

For the gourmets among you, here are two really great restaurants:
  • Miss Ly, which offers good dishes that you can share. Very tasty!
  • Mai Fish, where you can enjoy good fish and seafood with nice salads.

Hotels in Hoi An

My recommendation: The Little Oasis Hoi An

The Little Oasis impresses with stylish rooms with a view of the water and a quiet location outside the old town. The attentive service is particularly noteworthy – even a late dinner was accommodated without any problems. Perfect for anyone looking for peace and elegance.

Website: https://www.littleoasis.com.vn/

Imagine: Three weeks full of adventure, enjoyment and insights into the fascinating culture of Vietnam – and I do all the organizing! Together we discover authentic places, taste the best local food and stay in luxurious accommodation (subject to availability). Whether it’s vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes or hidden gems – I’ll customize the trip according to your wishes to make it unforgettable. Let’s experience the authentic Vietnamese way of life – stylish, enjoyable and intense. Ready for your Vietnam adventure? Write to me!

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Luxury hotels
  • Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – Elegance and comfort on the beach with spa and excellent cuisine.
    Website: www.fourseasons.com/hoian
  • Allegro Hoi An – Boutique hotel with a charming old town atmosphere and excellent service.
    Website: www.allegrohoian.com
Middle class
  • Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa – Central location and a beautiful pool area.
    Website: www.hoianhotel.com
  • ÊMM Hotel Hoi An – Modern and comfortable, perfect for city explorers.
    Website: www.emmhotels.com
Low Budget
  • Backpackers Hostel Hoi An – Young and international, ideal for solo travelers.
    Website: www.vietnam-backpackerhostels.com
  • Under The Coconut Tree Homestay – Cozy and close to the beach.
    Website: www.underthecoconuttree.com
How much does it cost?
  • Low budget: 10-30 € per night, meals 2-5 €.
  • Mid-range: 50-100 € per night, meals 10-20 €.
  • Luxury: From €200 per night, meals from €30.

My conclusion

Hoi An has its charm, but it is not the first choice for an authentic Vietnam experience. The city is overcrowded and westernized. Nevertheless, the warm-hearted people and the impressive lantern art offer unforgettable moments. Recommended: An excursion into the surrounding nature and villages – here you can feel the authentic Vietnam.

Imagine: Three weeks full of adventure, enjoyment and insights into the fascinating culture of Vietnam – and I do all the organizing! Together we discover authentic places, taste the best local food and stay in luxurious accommodation (subject to availability). Whether it’s vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes or hidden gems – I’ll customize the trip according to your wishes to make it unforgettable. Let’s experience the authentic Vietnamese way of life – stylish, enjoyable and intense. Ready for your Vietnam adventure? Write to me!

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