In the sixteenth century, Hoi An Ancient Town served as an important Vietnamese harbor for international trade. It is now a well-known travel location that should not be overlooked on any travel itinerary. This location is also unusual since it features a distinctive fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture.
During our trip, we made the choice to stay at the Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery. Located only 5 minutes from the old quarter of Hoi An, Hotel Royal Hoi An MGallery is the perfect place to explore significant attractions. What is the finest aspect of hotel stays? It has two structures. The first is contemporary architecture, and the second is traditional Vietnamese design. Where you choose to stay is entirely up to you! We stayed in the historic structure.
The hotel’s exquisite design, which was influenced by new art with a dash of Japanese flare and Vietnamese culture, blends landmark beauty with contemporary flourishes. The highest rooftop bar in the city offers stunning panoramic views of Hoi An and the Thu Bon River. It was a bonus to be able to eat breakfast by the pool because it was so good. The hotel’s delicious dining selections take guests on a tour of the town’s rich history. Guests visit the 17th-century Nagasaki-inspired Wakaku Restaurant after spending the day exploring Hoi An and savoring the charm of Hotel Royal Hoi An. Another name for Hoi An is the Faifo Restaurant. This restaurant pays homage to Hoi An’s eclectic food history and Western-Asian dishes…
Visit the Bon River in Hoi An while you’re there; it’s an ancient river that runs through the center of the historic town. It continues to age and adds to the attractiveness of the old city with its charm today. Vietnam is known for its coffee, and this old town is where some of the best coffee shops in the nation can be found. If you enjoy coffee, the best old town to visit is Hoi An. Vietnamese cafes and food carts abound on the streets of Hoi An, and freshly brewed black coffee can be smelled everywhere.
Hoi An lanterns, the heart of this historic trading port, are glistening and amazingly creative. You may tour the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, where you will undoubtedly enjoy the stunning scenery, and you can also join the natives in fishing for crabs on a basket boat to experience the dizziness that comes with floating down a river.
Things to do in Hoi An
Explore the Ancient Town: With an abundance of historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, Hoi An ancient town is truly a gem of Southeast Asia. The evocative Old Town of Hoi An is one of the most fascinating spots in Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of narrow streets lined with vibrant yellow buildings, stunning temples, and quaint cafes. The colorful buildings with intricate wooden carvings bear witness to the town’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Relax during sunset at An Bang Bech: An Bang Beach in Hoi An is an excellent spot to kick back for an afternoon while enjoying the gorgeous coastal location of Hoi An. Moreover, this Hoi An Beach is one of the prettiest in Vietnam and is a must-visit if you’re spending time in a small town. There are loads of excellent restaurants and bars that line the sandy shorelines making it an awesome afternoon spot to hang out and then enjoy some food while watching the sunset.
Coconut Basket Ride: If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you absolutely must add the charming city of Hoi An to your list of must-visit destinations. One of the most unique experiences you can have in this city is taking a basket boat ride in Hoi An, locally known as “Thúng chài”. Experience the beauty of a local guide leading you through an eight-hectare network of water coconut palms on a sturdy, all-natural vessel.
Hoi An Night Market: The nightlife in Hoi An ancient town is always a great choice to check out once the sun goes down. Night markets should be on every traveler’s must-see list. Along Hoi An’s central market, Hoi An night market is a magical experience for tourists. These markets have rich cultural significance as it has been a trading hub for over 500 years. The architecture and goods sold at the market are a testament to this history. Moreover, it offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand.
Lantern boat ride during sunset: A Hoi An boat ride is an experience that deserves a prominent spot on your bucket list, offering an extraordinary blend of tranquility, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. The boat ride also provides an intimate encounter with the local fishermen, artisans, and residents, offering glimpses into their daily lives and traditional practices. Moreover, the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before your eyes, from traditional old houses to lush greenery, creates a captivating backdrop for your journey. You can make a wish and light lantern and put it in the river!
Japanese bridge Hop on a bike tour: Morning is the ideal time to explore the hidden passageways and winding alleys of Hoi An. Have the chance to photograph the iconic Japanese Bridge in the historic district. Crossing the canal bridge first near the night market, continue to the new metal bike bridge connecting Hoi An proper and its southern villages of Quang Nam Province. Cycle through the stunning countryside comprised of family farms, fishing ports, and local food. You can sample tasty fresh local foods such as Banh Beo and rice wine.
Taste the best Bahn Mi: Enjoying Banh Mi Hoi An should be one of the top activities on your bucket list. Banh Mi Hoi An will make you drool with the crunchiness of bread, the distinctive mix of numerous protein ingredients, the aroma of fresh herbs, and the flavor of special sauces.
Party at Tiger bar: If you’re wanting somewhere a little more lively, then look no further than Tiger Tiger. Of all the bars lining Nguyen Phuc Chu, this place seems to be the backpacker’s bar of choice, constantly packed while the surrounding establishments remain vacant. It is the main place to party with other travellers in Hoi An.
Places to eat in Hoi An
Bahn Mi Phuong Stall: Banh Mi is one of Vietnam’s most popular street foods and Hoi An is home to Banh Mi Phuong considered one of the best Banh Mi makers you’ll find in Vietnam. This bakery was born in the 1990s and is located on Phan Chau Trinh Street in Hoi An City. Initially, it was just a tiny stall in Hoi An Market, but it moved the location to Phan Chau Trinh Street. Up to now, Banh Mi Phuong Hoi An has been very successful and famous all over the world.
V Vegan Vietnamese restaurant: This Vietnamese restaurant offers Bahn Mi sandwiches, noodle salads, vegan-style cao lau, wonton soup, taro and potato curry, fried spring rolls, and more. The mushroom and chive dumplings are insanely good! Also their vegan version of the local ‘cao lau’ is a must-try.
Nourish eatery: Fulfilling all of your breakfast and brunch needs, Nourish has got you covered with an all-day menu boasting made-in-house dishes formed from 100% natural ingredients. This place has the best breakfast burgers, chocolate smoothie bowls, and pesto-fried eggs.
Good eats cafe: Whether you’re a vegan, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who appreciates great taste, you’ll find something to love and enjoy. At Good Eats, the best food begins with the best ingredients. They source only the freshest and healthiest ingredients to create their delicious dishes.
Roving chill house: Roving Chillhouse Hoi An, located about 3km from Hoi An towards Cua Dai Beach, is a cafe situated in the middle of green fields with bold rural imprints of Quang Nam. It is one of the most famous coffee shops in Hoi An and is the favorite place of tourists from all over the world with the expectation of experiencing peace and relaxation amidst the poetic nature in the countryside of Quang Nam.
Sri Spices Indian: The menu delivers an inspired contrast from the delicately scented and seasoned dishes of Hoi An. Mouthwatering aromas escape from each dish as it arrives on the table and each bite reveals perfectly balanced flavors and delightful textures. You can’t miss the wonderfully complex curries and crispy pani puri.
Ellie’s Cafe: This is a 100% Vietnamese family-run cafe, serving healthy, clean-eating dishes with many vegan options. The menu offers choices like overnight oats, green smoothie bowls, quinoa bowls, and fresh juices. I loved the quiet, family-owned place offering a peaceful oasis and an excellent falafel salad bowl with crunchy brown rice.
Phin Coffee: Phin Coffee Hoi An is tucked away in a tranquil alley, offering a serene escape from the bustling streets. The combination of excellent coffee, spacious oak benches, and soothing music creates a relaxed atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease. Phin Coffee is also known for its intriguing and innovative coffee blends, which have gained popularity among locals and visitors in Hoi An.
Buttercup: Buttercup by Rosie’s Cafe is a great spot for anyone looking for a peaceful and creative place to relax in Hoi An. The good coffee, peaceful atmosphere, and charming decorations make it an ideal place for a quiet escape or a creative work session. The menu offers a range of drinks, including coffee, tea, and other beverages. Specialty coffee drinks include salted coffee, whipped coffee (the shop’s signature dish), and traditional Vietnamese and Italian coffee.
This unique heritage site should be in your bucket list soon!