10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Hoi An For First-time Visitor

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most charming destinations, where time seems to slow down amidst ancient moss-covered rooftops, lantern-lit alleys, and a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. If you’re planning your first trip to this heritage town, here are 10 unforgettable things to do in Hoi An for visitors - a must-read list to help you fully experience the beauty and spirit of this magical place.

1. Strolling through the Ancient Town at night

Taking a stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town at night is an experience not to be missed when visiting this city. Without needing complicated or elaborate activities, simply walking leisurely along the old streets will immerse you in the mystical atmosphere of Hoi An as night falls.

Every evening, lanterns of various colors are hung throughout the streets, creating a dazzling and enchanting scene. The ancient houses with moss-covered tiled roofs and traditional wooden doors under the warm yellow light transport you into a romantic and poetic atmosphere. Each house is a mark of history, blending with the vibrant life of the modern city.

Visitors can walk along the Hoai River and enjoy the sight of small boats gently floating on the water, accompanied by the shimmering lights from nearby cafés and shops.

2. Releasing Lanterns on the River

Releasing lanterns is one of the unique experiences you cannot miss when visiting Hoi An. After admiring the ancient beauty of the old town at night, visitors can join in the tradition of releasing lanterns onto the Hoài River, creating a space that is both mystical and romantic.

This is a long-standing tradition of the people of Hoi An, symbolizing the sending of wishes and hopes for a bright and lucky future. The small lanterns, with their soft light from candles, float gently on the water, reflecting a shimmering glow that creates a stunning sight. Visitors can purchase lanterns from stalls near the river and release them, wishing for health, peace, and prosperity for themselves and their families.

What makes this experience even more special is that each lantern carries the personal story of the person who releases it. Many tourists choose to release a lantern to wish for good things to come, or simply to immerse themselves in the poetic atmosphere of Hoi An. Especially during festivals and holidays, the lantern release activity attracts a large number of locals and tourists, creating a beautiful light festival.

3. Visiting Hoi An Market

If you're compiling a list of unforgettable things to do in Hoi An, exploring the lively Hoi An Market should be right at the top. Unlike the tranquil charm of the ancient town, this market is a vibrant hub of local life, bursting with flavors, colors, and sounds that capture the essence of Hoi An.

If you're looking for a lively spot in Hoi An to indulge in some fun and take memorable photos, while also sampling the local specialties, the Hoi An Market is a must-visit destination. Unlike the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the old town center, Hoi An Market is a vibrant food paradise that attracts numerous visitors.

At the market, you'll find a variety of delicious street foods and local delicacies, such as the famous Hoi An Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Cao Lau (a noodle dish unique to Hoi An), Mi Quang (Quang-style noodles), and many other tasty treats. The market offers a wide array of fresh produce, snacks, and seafood, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to explore the culinary flavors that Hoi An is known for.

You can stroll through the bustling stalls, sample local specialties, and enjoy the authentic flavors of the region without breaking the bank. Whether you're enjoying a steaming bowl of Cao Lau or grabbing a quick bite of Banh Mi, the Hoi An Market provides an affordable and delightful experience, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the area.

4. Watch The Memories of Hoi An Live Show

The Memories of Hoi An show is a unique and captivating live performance that offers an unforgettable experience of Hoi An’s history and culture. Featuring hundreds of talented artists, the show reenacts the stories of Hoi An’s land and people through meticulously crafted and emotional performances.

The stage for The Memories of Hoi An spans 25,000m², stretching nearly 1km in length, creating an impressive and grand space. The use of state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems delivers a visual feast, with vibrant images on stage and special effects blending seamlessly with music and lighting. Each performance is not just a combination of sound and light but also tells the unique historical and cultural stories of Hoi An.

What sets The Memories of Hoi An show apart is that it is not just a performance but a journey that takes the audience back in time, allowing them to experience significant events in Hoi An’s history, from its early days to its periods of prosperity. The integration of live art and distinctive cultural elements creates an engaging and captivating program that attracts many visitors.

This is an experience that should not be missed when visiting Hoi An, where you will immerse yourself in a mystical and emotional atmosphere, feeling the heartbeat of the city’s history and culture with every performance.

5. Participating in traditional games

When visiting night markets or the ancient streets like Nguyễn Thái Học, tourists have the chance to engage in a variety of traditional games, which are deeply rooted in the local cultural heritage. These activities are not only a fun way to relax but also an opportunity for travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and lifestyle values of the local people.

One of the popular and exciting games is "blindfolded clay pot smashing." In this game, participants are blindfolded and must attempt to hit a clay pot hung high in the air. The thrill and excitement of trying to "hit the mark" are sure to bring laughter and joy to all participants.

Another game that's just as entertaining is "smashing the spinning tops." This is a team game where players work together to control spinning tops and try to hit them to win the game. It requires skill and adds to the lively atmosphere, fostering friendly interaction between tourists and locals.

In addition, tourists can try their hand at "singing Bai Choi," a traditional folk game of central Vietnam. In this game, players express their singing and witty responses to fun riddles, creating a colorful space full of traditional music.

By participating in these games, tourists not only immerse themselves in the lively and vibrant atmosphere of the ancient streets but also get the chance to learn more about the cultural values and traditional games that have been part of local life for generations. This is truly a meaningful and enjoyable activity, making your travel experience even more complete and memorable.thin

6. Check-in with the moonlight bridge of Thuong Cang

The moonlight bridge of Thuong Cang is one of the hottest spots on the Hoai River, standing out in the picturesque setting of Hoi An's ancient town. This bridge is not only beautiful in architecture but also rich in historical and cultural significance, making it an ideal check-in location for tourists visiting Hoi An.

The bridge is often compared to a ribbon of clouds leading visitors to a romantic crescent moon in the middle of the river. At night, the bridge is illuminated by warm golden lights, creating a dreamy and poetic atmosphere. The reflection of the lights on the surface of the Hoai River enhances the beauty of the surrounding scenery, making it even more enchanting and captivating.

The moonlight bridge of Thuong Cang is not just a beautiful landmark; it also holds a long history tied to Hoi An's international trade. In the past, it was the meeting point for merchant ships from Japan, China, and Western countries. The bridge has witnessed the blending of different cultures, contributing to the rich diversity and beauty of the ancient port town.

With its stunning views and unique historical background, the moonlight bridge of Thuong Cang is a must-visit destination for those who love capturing beautiful moments. Whether during sunset or at night when the bridge is beautifully lit, you’ll have the chance to take unforgettable photos, making lasting memories of Hoi An.

7. Watching An Bang Beach at Night

Many people, when thinking of traveling to Hoi An, only remember the ancient streets and the simple, traditional dishes of Central Vietnam. However, if you stop there, you'll miss out on another wonderful experience: the peaceful beauty of An Bang Beach. Unlike the bustling and lively Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach possesses a serene, unspoiled charm that is truly unique.

An Bang Beach boasts a long stretch of coastline with fine white sand and crystal-clear water, like a beautiful painting created by nature. The surrounding scenery also adds to its allure, with rows of lush pine trees, a gentle sea breeze that creates a soothing and comfortable feeling, and the old pineapple bushes growing along the shore with dense leaves, hiding the view and enhancing the beach's wild and mysterious beauty.

In particular, if you’re looking for a place to relax and immerse yourself in nature, the evening is the perfect time to visit An Bang Beach. As the sunset fades, the beach becomes quieter than ever. You can take a stroll with your loved one on the soft sand, feel the cool breeze, and listen to the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore in the peaceful night.

8. Chill at Hoi An Bars

Although Hoi An is famous for its peaceful, ancient atmosphere, there are still some very attractive nightlife spots here. Unlike the noisy bars with lively music and strong drinks typically found in large cities, the bars and lounges in Hoi An’s ancient town offer a relaxing, cozy, and charming atmosphere, providing a unique experience for visitors.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that most bars and lounges in Hoi An close quite early, usually around 11 PM. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to the time to ensure you don’t miss the chance to enjoy this experience.

9. Exploring the Coconut Forest

If you’re looking for a completely new, unique, and exciting experience during your journey to explore Hoi An, then the 7 Mau Coconut Forest is a must-visit destination. Located just about 15 km from the ancient town center of Hoi An, the 7 Mau Coconut Forest is a stunning mangrove area with a rich ecosystem.

Here, visitors have the chance to engage in exciting activities like rowing a basket boat, exploring small canals, or enjoying local seafood specialties. The surrounding scenery is truly impressive, with dense green coconut groves, crystal-clear water reflecting the endless blue sky, and the unique basket boats gently gliding on the water. Additionally, if you enjoy exploring local culture, the 7 Mau Coconut Forest also offers activities to learn about coconut farming and the production of handmade products made from coconuts.

10. Visit Hoi An’s Beach

Hoi An is renowned for its stunning beaches, making it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and fun by the sea. The beaches, including Cua Dai, An Bang, and Ha My, are known for their soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city. These serene spots are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and unwinding.

For the more adventurous, the beaches offer activities such as kayaking, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, allowing visitors to engage with the natural surroundings in an active way. In addition to beach activities, visitors can also explore local seafood restaurants and beachside bars that offer fresh, delicious dishes, often with a view of the ocean.

Above are the top activities you can experience to create memorable moments when visiting Hoi An. These activities will surely offer you a colorful trip and unforgettable experiences. Get ready to enjoy not only the beauty of the cultural heritage but also the tranquility and friendliness of this land.