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How to Make the Most out of Your Hoi An 1-day Itinerary
It’s no coincidence that Hoi An frequently ranks among the top travel destinations worldwide. As a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, the city offers everything you could dream of: stunning beaches, delicious food, and plenty of green spaces. If you’ve decided on a day trip from Da Nang to Hoi An or don’t have much time for sightseeing, here’s our suggestion on how to spend your one day in Hoi An!
An Introduction to Hoi An
Hoi An is in Central Vietnam, located in Quang Nam Province, about 30 kilometers from Da Nang. It takes approximately 45 minutes to travel by motorbike from Da Nang to Hoi An.
Best Time to Visit Hoi An
The ideal time to visit Hoi An is from February to April when the weather is cooler and there’s less rain, making it perfect for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
Highlights of Hoi An
Hoi An is famous for its Ancient Town, a well-preserved historical site that was once a bustling international trading port in Southeast Asia. The Ancient Town offers a unique glimpse into the past with its charming streets, historic buildings, and cultural landmarks.
Popular Activities in Hoi An
– Releasing Lanterns: Experience the magical sight of lanterns floating on the Thu Bon River, especially during the monthly lantern festival.
– Night Strolls: Take a leisurely walk along the Thu Bon River at night to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the illuminated town.
– Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside, visit nearby villages, and see the lush rice paddies.
– Admiring Old Structures: Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, and assembly halls to appreciate the architecture and history of Hoi An.
For More Information
For detailed information on Hoi An, check out our all-inclusive Hoi An Travel Guide. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this beautiful and historic city.
Tips for Visiting Hoi An in One Day
Getting Around
- Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike is the best choice for exploring Hoi An. The rental fee ranges from VND 150,000 to VND 200,000 per day. You can rent one directly from your accommodation or local bike rental businesses.
- Note: Motorbikes are not allowed inside the Ancient Town, and certain streets are off-limits to motorcycles from 9 AM to 11 AM and 3 PM to 9:30 PM. Expect to walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing, apply sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Essentials
- Internet Access: 3G/4G connectivity is crucial since Hoi An can be quiet outside the downtown area, and you’ll need it for navigation to traditional villages.
- Cash: Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most budget-friendly cities. Carry small denominations of Vietnamese currency for convenience.
- Safety: The locals are friendly, and while you generally don’t need bargaining skills, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially during the peak season when it gets crowded.
Hoi An 1-day Itinerary Activities
Below are some key things to explore Hoi An to the fullest, all within one day. Therefore, you can expect the itinerary to be tight with too many things to do. Feel free to add more or skip a few things if you want to take more time to enjoy the town’s beauty.
5:00 AM: Catch the Sunrise at Cua Dai Beach
Start your day early with the stunning sunrise at Cua Dai Beach. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful view as the sun rises over the horizon.
6:30 AM: Banh Mi for Breakfast
Address: 2B Phan Chu Trinh Street, Hoi An
Price: VND 15,000 – VND 30,000
Head back into town and grab a delicious Banh Mi from one of the famous local vendors. It’s a perfect start to your day with a mix of fresh ingredients and savory flavors.
7:00 AM: Explore the Ancient Town
Wander through Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Visit historical landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and the old merchant houses. The early morning is a great time to explore as it’s less crowded and cooler.
10:30 AM: Ca Phe Sua Da Break
Take a break with a refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da) at a local café. Relax and enjoy people-watching from a café balcony or along the riverfront.
11:00 AM: Cao Lau for Lunch
Address: 26 Thai Phien Street, Hoi An
Price: VND 20,000 – VND 44,000
For lunch, indulge in Cao Lau, a regional noodle dish that is unique to Hoi An. Find a reputable local restaurant or street vendor to savor this flavorful meal.
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Basket Boat Tour
Experience a basket boat tour through the coconut palm-lined waterways of Hoi An. This unique activity allows you to interact with local fishermen and enjoy the scenic beauty of the river.
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Head to Thanh Ha Pottery Village to see traditional pottery making. You can even try your hand at creating your own pottery under the guidance of skilled artisans.
6:30 PM: Mi Quang for Dinner
Mi Quang Ba Linh
Address: 137 Phan Chau Trinh Street, Hoi An
Price: VND 25,000 – VND 95,000
Return to the town and have Mi Quang for dinner. This tasty noodle dish is another must-try when in Hoi An. Enjoy it at a local restaurant or street food stall.
7:30 PM: Watch a Cultural Show
After dinner, watch a traditional cultural show. These performances often include folk music, dance, and sometimes even water puppet shows, offering insight into Vietnamese culture.
9:30 PM: Party by the Thu Bon River
End your day with a party by the Thu Bon River. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere. There are many bars and riverside cafes where you can relax and enjoy the night.
Our Final Thoughts on the One-Day Hoi An Itinerary
Have you ever felt exhausted by the hustle and bustle of city life? Visit Hoi An, and your restlessness will disappear as if it never existed in this eternally peaceful town. Even though you only have one day, with this one-day Hoi An itinerary, we assure you that you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything while enjoying every moment at a relaxed pace.
To prepare for a perfect trip, it’s important to plan and book in advance. Among the many tour companies offering services in Vietnam, Discover Vietnam Tours is an excellent choice for arranging your travel itinerary with just a few emails and WhatsApp messages. They provide airport pickup, accommodation booking, tour guides, drivers, and customizable activities based on your preferences.
With their assistance, you can tailor your trip according to your desired schedule and preferences, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience throughout Vietnam.
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