Brian Kennett
Amateur Chef and Boozy Traveling Foodie Extraordinaire
What to do in Hoi An? Read on, we'll walk you through the city...
What to do in Hoi An: Hoi An, a charming town in central Vietnam, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s the Islifearecipe.net guide to making the most of your visit. It was our first time here, so this is all hot off the press for 2024.
We flew to Da Nang and were immediately impressed by the airport’s efficiency —like blown away: see HERE. As soon as our luggage was out, we took a Grab (also so impressive in Vietnam) and drove 40km to Hoi An for the first part of our Vietnamese vacation. Now though, let’s get into what to do in Hoi An.
What to do in Hoi An Review: Contents
What to do in Hoi An
Hoi An, is a quaint town in central Vietnam, that makes you feel like you’re stepping into a postcard. I hope you get that sense from the photos. Its cobblestone streets are lined with mustard-yellow buildings adorned with bougainvillaea, creating an enchanting mix of history and downright charm: the French occupation clearly impacted and influenced the town.
The Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of traditional architecture, tailor shops, food meccas: including Michelin recognition, and bustling markets. By day, it’s a must-visit for those who enjoy exploring narrow alleys, peeking into ancient houses, and gorging on the massive variety of food in restaurants and the street food of course.
By night, the town transforms into a luminous spectacle, with lanterns casting a warm glow over the Thu Bon River. The atmosphere is as serene as it is vibrant (AKA crowded: so you need to learn to see through the crowds), offering a perfect blend of relaxation and lively energy. But, I’ll caveat that it gets barmy busy at night, to the point of being claustrophobic even when outdoors. Crowds flock as there really is a huge list of Hoi An things to do.
Beyond its historic streets, Hoi An Vietnam offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveller. From cycling through lush rice paddies, visiting Ba Na Hills, or Marble Mountains, to relaxing on the sandy shores of An Bang Beach, there’s no shortage of Hoi An things to do. Food lovers can sample local dishes like the iconic cao lầu or crispy bánh xèo at humble street stalls or riverside eateries: we did the lot.
The famous tailors of Hoi An provide another highlight, crafting custom-made clothing in just a day or two—a tempting opportunity for a unique souvenir. I did not get the chance, or even have the desire actually, to try this so can’t be a voice of authority. But my mate Spencer surely did, and highly rated the experience and the quality.
Whether you come here for the culture, the food, the markets, the surrounding natural history, or simply to soak up the beauty of the town, Hoi An is guaranteed to leave an impression that lingers long after your trip ends. We fell in love with it immediately. It’s nice to get some chaos away from Singapore, and I could easily sit at a corner cafe with a beer in hand, chomping on Bánh Xèo Chay, and people-watched for hour upon hour. My kind of town…
What to do in Hoi An: Wander the Ancient Town, and Little Hoi An
Start your adventure in Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through narrow streets lined with historic buildings, and try not to trip while gawking at the architecture: yep cobbles, scooters, hawkers and a million tourists will be at your feet. Remember, it’s a pedestrian-friendly area, so the only traffic jam you’ll face is a group of selfie-taking tourists, but you might get an umbrella or that very selfie-stick poked in your eyeball once or twice: yes, this place is 1000% Instagrammable.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a living tapestry of history and culture with major Chinese and French influences, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s past through its beautifully preserved architecture and banging atmosphere. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with ochre-painted buildings, wooden shophouses, and intricately carved temples: yep, Instagrammable eye-candy is EVERYWHERE you look.
Wandering the town I felt like I had stepped back in time, where scooters and cars are replaced by bicycles and footsteps that echo in the quiet mornings: we luckily did indeed experience that one morning. But, by day and then by night, her streets transform into bustling market stalls and boutique shops, crowded with tourism groups and hawkers, that gradually fades into a glowing haven of lanterns, casting a soft, colourful light over the Thu Bon River that’s crammed with brightly lit boats shuttling tourists (including us, one night) up and down.
One of the Ancient Town’s highlights is the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge (read more later), a structure that has stood for centuries as a symbol of Hoi An’s multicultural heritage. Nearby, the old merchant houses, such as Tan Ky House, offer a window into the lives of the town’s prosperous traders from the 18th century. The local markets are filled with everything from silk scarves to handcrafted pottery, and the smells of sizzling street food wafting through the air.
Don’t miss the Assembly Halls, such as the Fujian Assembly Hall, where ornate dragon statues (above) and courtyards brim with history and spiritual significance.
You need to find the ticket office on the corner nearby the Japanese Covered Bridge, and that ticket gives you access to about ten tourist spots throughout the Ancient Town.
What truly sets Hoi An’s Ancient Town apart is the way it comes alive at night. As the sun sets, the streets are decorated with countless lanterns, and the river is dotted with floating candles placed by tourists making wishes. Bustling night markets add to the atmosphere.
You can just meander and soak in the architecture, sample the local food, or simply sit by the river admiring the lights and people-watching. Hoi An’s Ancient Town offers a timeless charm that captivates every visitor who steps into its streets: she had us at hello.
Enjoy a Riverfront Dinner: Hoi An Vietnam
You simply must dine at one of the many riverside restaurants. The view is stunning, and the food is generally delicious and affordable. Just watch out for the local mosquitos who clearly have a taste for tourists.
Stretching along the banks of the Thu Bon River, the Hoi An riverfront is dotted with restaurants and cafes that offer everything from traditional Vietnamese dishes to international favourites. My Top Tip: stick to local Vietnamese. I found the Western options second rate to the incredible local fare, and that was every time we meandered ‘off piste’.
As you sit by the water, the gentle lapping of the river and the glow of lanterns create a serene ambiance that makes any meal feel special. It’s a place where time slows down, and the simple act of dining becomes a memorable part of your Hoi An experience. I wish I had more time to just ‘sit’, and watch the chaos of Hoi An pass me by, I was in bliss for that short time I had with her.
The food options along the river are as varied as the scenery itself. Many restaurants specialise in local dishes like cao lầu, a Hoi An specialty of noodles, pork, and greens with a unique smoky flavour. Grilled seafood is another highlight, with fresh fish, prawns, and squid often cooked to order: you’ll also see this in the markets everywhere with HUGE lobsters sat on ice ready to go.
Pair your meal with an ice local beer or a refreshing lychee soda, exhale, and sit back, relax and watch that big old world go by. Sigh…
Dining by the river at night is lovely experience, as the area transforms as the lanterns light up, reflecting off the water and casting a magical glow. Street performers, hawkers and musicians add to the charm, creating a lively yet laid-back vibe wherever you look. Many restaurants, in fact most, offer outdoor, and even rooftop seating, so you can enjoy the cool evening breeze while watching boats glide past.
Hoi An food
Hoi An’s riverside food scene is a treat for both your gob and the senses. Vendors and small eateries line the banks of the Thu Bon River, offering freshly prepared dishes that capture the essence of Vietnamese street food. From piping hot bowls of cao lầu to crispy bánh xèo (my favourite), the variety of food is as colourful as the lanterns that light up the night skies.
A favourite among locals and tourists alike is grilled seafood, often cooked right in front of you on small charcoal grills. The aroma of sizzling lobsters, prawns, squid, and clams wafts through the market air, tempting even the most casual passersby to stop for a bite. Wifey was literally dragging me to these hawker stalls for chargrilled lobster (oh yeah, and it’s cheap).
What makes Hoi An riverfront dining special is not just the food but the atmosphere. As you enjoy your meal, you can watch the gentle flow of the river, with the occasional boat drifting by. At night, the scene becomes even more enchanting, with floating candles on the water and lantern-lit streets casting a warm glow over the old town and river.
It’s the kind of setting that turns a simple snack, or even just a quick beer into a memorable experience. You could be perched on a tiny stool by some street food or settled into a rustic riverside café, Hoi An’s river food is an experience that feeds both your body and the soul. It’s people-watching heaven, folks.
Not sure I’ll be taking a coffee break at this place though…
Explore the Hoi An Local Markets: What to do in Hoi An
Visit the Hoi An Central Market for a bustling shopping experience. It’s the perfect place to buy souvenirs you’ll likely later wonder why you purchased in the first place: I think Wifey bough fridge magnets. Hoi An’s local markets are banging hubs of activity, offering a mix of fresh produce, traditional food, and handcrafted goods.
The Hoi An Central Market, located near the Thu Bon River, is the heart of the town’s trading scene: trading being the operative word. You need to haggle, folks. If you do a good job, you’ll knock ~50% off the asking price. Don’t fein a walk-away, just walk away, because I guarantee 2 minutes down the road there’ll another place selling exactly what you were haggling for before.
Early mornings are the best time to visit if you want to see the market in full swing, with vendors unloading baskets of fish, vegetables, and exotic fruits. The sights, sounds, and smells of the market are a sensory overload, from the chatter of locals haggling over prices to the aromatic wafts of herbs and spices. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to experience the true pulse of Hoi An’s daily life: plus it’s the time to miss the tourist throngs.
For food lovers, the market is a paradise, no a food mecca. I felt like Anthony Bourdain walking through the market, eager to stop at every little stall to try the incredible variety of soups, noodle dishes and other just gorgeous looking stuff on display.
Vendors dish out local delicacies such as bánh mì, cao lầu, and freshly steamed dumplings, all prepared on the spot. The food stalls are an informal and authentic way to taste Hoi An’s specialties without the frills of a restaurant. Pull up a tiny plastic stool and enjoy a bowl of hot noodles while soaking in the bustling atmosphere of the market carrying on it’s business around you.
Don’t miss the fresh sugarcane juice, a refreshing drink to counter the tropical heat: also an iconic drink in Singapore Hawkers. With prices that are budget-friendly and portions that are generous, it’s a place where your taste buds and wallet both leave happy: just remember this addage, do not eat with your eyes…
Beyond food, Hoi An’s markets are a treasure trove for shopping. From silk scarves and hand-embroidered tablecloths to leather goods and custom-tailored outfits, the variety is seriously impressive: albeit there is a certain amount of mass repetition of offerings as you explore deeper and deeper + I noticed a lot ‘made in China’ which I found hysterical.
The Hoi An Night Market on Nguyen Hoang Street is particularly popular for its lantern stalls, where you can pick up one of Hoi An’s iconic handcrafted lanterns to take home. Haggling is part of the experience, so sharpen your bargaining skills for the best deals. Whether you’re after souvenirs, fresh produce, or a meal that hits all the right notes: like the chargrilled lobsters, Hoi An’s markets are an unmissable slice of local life.
Take a Cooking Class in Hoi An Vietnam
Enrol in a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese dishes. It’s all fun and games until you realize your cooking instructor has higher expectations than your high school math teacher. These were on offer at the two hotels we stayed at in Vietnam, but you see the signs everywhere. It’s a great way to build up your appreciation for just how fresh the food is in Vietnam: no defrosted and deep-fried sh!t here, no sir!!!
Taking a cooking class in Hoi An is a hands-on way to connect with the region’s food culture while learning new skills to impress back home. Many classes start with a guided tour of the local market, where you’ll pick out fresh ingredients and get an insider’s look at the vibrant trade scene. From there, you’ll head to a serene cooking studio or even a countryside setting surrounded by lush greenery. Guided by passionate instructors, you’ll learn to prepare iconic dishes like cao lầu, spring rolls, and bánh xèo, all while picking up tips on balancing flavors and mastering techniques.
It’s a fun, interactive experience that lets you appreciate the art of Vietnamese cooking beyond just eating it—and the best part is you get to enjoy your creations at the end! I have done this is Ho Chi Minh at Luke Nguyen’s restaurant, and it was just spectacular fun, and I seriously learnt a lot of new techniques.
Take a Basket Boat Tour in Hoi An Vietnam
Navigate the waterways in a traditional basket boat which looks like the Irish Coracle. It’s a unique experience that will make you appreciate modern boat designs, or leave you going round in circles: literally. I’ll be totally honest, we did not do this for two reasons: 1/ I thought I might sink the boat. 2/ We drove past the river where they did this and it was busier than the rush hour on the M25: nah, not for me…
A basket boat tour in Hoi An is an adventure that combines the charm of local traditions with a bit of fun and flair. These round bamboo boats, supposedly unique to Vietnam, take you through the tranquil waterways of the Nipa palm forests, where the scenery feels like you’re in Jurassic Park.
Your local guide will often double as an entertainer, spinning the boat in circles or showing off some surprising rowing tricks that are sure to make you laugh, and get a little wet. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s fishing culture and might even try your hand at casting a traditional net.
Photo courtesy of Basket Boat Tour Website
Take a Lantern-Making Workshop
Learn to make the iconic Hoi An lanterns. It’s a fun activity that will test your crafting skills and patience. Taking a lantern-making course in Hoi An is a delightful way to get into the town’s cultural heritage while crafting your own souvenir to take home: I saw loads of people doing this, painting on the side of the bustling roads.
Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you’ll learn the traditional techniques of shaping bamboo frames, stretching vibrant fabrics, and assembling your lantern piece by piece. The process is hands-on and surprisingly meditative, with just the right amount of challenge to keep it engaging. By the end, you’ll not only have a beautiful handcrafted lantern to take home but also a newfound appreciation for this iconic symbol of Hoi An.
Visit the Old House of Tan Ky, Hoi An Vietnam
The Ancient House of Tan Ky in Hoi An offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a prosperous merchant family during the 18th century. Tucked away in the heart of the Ancient Town, this meticulously preserved house has been home to seven generations and stands as a testament to Hoi An’s rich trading history: but with modern-day admission fees.
The architecture is a blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles, reflecting the multicultural influences of the town’s trading port days. As you step inside, the polished wooden beams (see my pic), intricate carvings, and antique furniture transport you back in time, offering a rare chance to experience history in a living, breathing space: check out the balcony shot, just to the left is the Japanese Covered Bridge.
What I found as a remarkable feature of Tan Ky is its design. The house is compact yet ingeniously planned out, with separate areas for living, working, and entertaining. The walls are adorned with calligraphy panels and mother-of-pearl inlays, while the courtyard lets in natural light and keeps the house cool—a clever adaptation to Vietnam’s climate, and very similar to Singapore‘s shophouses.
It also has a lived-in feel, despite being a historical monument. It’s not just a museum piece; it’s a home with a soul, lovingly maintained by the descendants of its original owners. It’s a place where stories of trade, history and family come alive as you meander through this beautiful home.
Experience the Lantern Festival
If your visit coincides with the full moon, you’re in for a treat. The Hoi An Lantern Festival lights up the town with even more colourful lanterns: could there be, even more… It’s a magical experience, unless you’re afraid of the dark.
The Lantern Festival in Hoi An is a magical event that transforms the ancient town into a glowing wonderland. Held on the 14th day of each lunar month, the festival celebrates tradition and spirituality, with the streets lit solely by the soft glow of colourful lanterns.
The Thu Bon River comes alive with floating candles, set adrift by locals and visitors making wishes for health and happiness. The absence of electric lights adds an old-world charm, as traditional music fills the air and monks chant prayers at local pagodas. It’s a serene yet festive atmosphere. Now this is a reason to return.
What to do in Hoi An: Get a Custom Tailored Outfit
Getting a hand-tailored suit in Hoi An is apparently an experience that combines craftsmanship, efficiency, and a touch of indulgence. Renowned for its skilled tailors and competitive prices, the town offers countless shops where you can choose your fabric, style, and details: and everyone, literally everyone will tell you where their ‘best’ in Hoi An is.
The process is surprisingly quick, and I had this confirmed by my bus partner Spence who did indeed indulge. Most tailors can have a suit ready in just 24 to 48 hours, with fittings in between to perfect the fit. Spence told me that attention to detail is impressive, and the results often rival those of high-end boutiques at a fraction of the cost.
Walking away with a bespoke suit should not only leave you feeling sharp but also with a unique memento of Hoi An’s famous tailoring tradition. OK, I will try next time, I promise. If they really are that fast does that make them Tailor Swift?
Explore the Hoi An Vietnam Night Market
The Hoi An Night Market is a sensory smorgasbord of lights, sounds, and smells. Haggling is expected, so channel your inner negotiator. Just remember, walking away dramatically only works if you don’t trip over a stray scooter, or Korean tourist. I’ll be adding a YouTube soon of our experiences of the Hoi An Night Market: watch this space… It’s bonkers…
Hoi An’s Night Market, located on Nguyen Hoang Street, is a banging hub that comes alive after sunset. The market stretches for several blocks, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to delicious street food. Lanterns hang overhead, casting a warm glow over the bustling scene, creating a magical atmosphere that’s distinctly Hoi An. Go hunting for unique trinkets or just soak in the energy of the evening, the night market is an unmissable experience: it’s jammed, so kids your kids close by.
The iconic Hoi An lanterns steal the show, available in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. Even if you’re not in the mood to buy, browsing the stalls is an experience in itself, giving you insight into the town’s artisanal traditions: even those imported from China, just sayin’.
Food is another highlight of the night market and what to do in Hoi An, as you’d expect. Vendors serve up steaming bowls of noodles, crispy spring rolls, and skewers of grilled meats that fill the air with mouthwatering aromas. Don’t miss the chance to try sweet treats like mango sticky rice or freshly made coconut pancakes. With a cold drink in hand, find a spot to enjoy your food and take in the lively performances from street musicians and entertainers.
What to do in Hoi An: Take a Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River
Taking a boat trip down the Thu Bon River in Hoi An is a serene and scenic experience that offers a fresh perspective on this historic town: it’s kind of a must-do, folks. The river, which played a crucial role in Hoi An’s development as a bustling trading port, now serves as a tranquil escape for us tourists to potter up and down in a bum boat to see the town from the waters that made it.
As you glide along the water in a traditional wooden bum boat: again very similar to Singapore’s, the pace slows, giving you a chance to soak in the lush green landscapes, the charming riverside homes, and the occasional fisherman casting a net. Whether you opt for a daytime cruise to take in the vibrant surroundings or an evening ride under the glow of lanterns, the Thu Bon River offers something special.
We left early evening so had some beautiful views of those riverside merchant houses from back in the day in the daylight hours, and then as we returned night had kicked in and the lanterns came on: magical is the word I’ll use.
What to do in Hoi An for photography enthusiasts: the shifting light on the water and the picturesque scenery provide endless opportunities to capture stunning shots: also for Instagram and maybe TikTok. The boat operators, mostly locals, are friendly and eager to share tidbits about the river and its importance to the community as they drive you up and down steering with their big toe (I kid you not).
Evening boat trips have their own charm, as the river becomes a canvas of shimmering lights from the lantern-lit town and other bum boats that pass you. Some tours offer floating candles, which you can release into the water while making a wish, adding a touch more magic to the experience.
These peaceful rides are a welcome contrast to the bustling streets of the Ancient Town, and should firmly be part of your what to do in Hoi An, giving you a chance to reflect and unwind: believe me, you are likely to need it.
You kind of just have to do this. It’s an hour well spent. You really do get to see ‘another perspective’ of Hoi An from the river, and can imagine what it was like to be one of those early traders back in the 18th Century maybe setting eyes on the East and Hoi An for the first time.
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge: What to do in Hoi An
Hoi An’s Covered Japanese Bridge, known locally as “Chùa Cầu,” is a historic icon that stands as a testament to the town’s multicultural heritage. Built in the 17th century by the Japanese community to connect them with the Chinese quarters across the stream, this architectural marvel is as much a functional bridge as it is a piece of art.
The bridge is roofed, offering shelter from the sun and rain, and features intricate carvings of mythical creatures like monkeys and dogs, reflecting the folklore of its builders. Walking across it feels like stepping into history, with every beam and detail telling a story: if only it wasn’t so mobbed with tourists… It’s a stunning piece of ancient architecture.
There is even a small temple located at its center, dedicated to the Taoist deity Tran Vo Bac De, said to protect sailors and fishermen. This adds a spiritual layer to the bridge, making it more than just a crossing point. The blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural influences is so evident in its wooden interiors, arched roof, and decorative panels, showcasing the bond of these cultures during Hoi An’s days as a bustling port town back in the day.
Surrounding the bridge, the area is lively with street vendors, photographers, and tourists, lots and lots of tourists, soaking in the picturesque setting. It’s particularly stunning in the evening when the lantern-lit streets and soft glow of nearby cafes create an eerie glow.
Hoi An weather
Hoi An weather is largely dictated by its tropical climate, featuring two main seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season, typically from February to August, brings warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and beach visits. During this period, temperatures average between 25°C and 35°C, with the hottest months being June and July.
The rainy season, from September to January, sees frequent downpours and occasional flooding, particularly in low-lying areas like the Ancient Town. Yes, we witnessed this a few times, as we visited in November. Hey, it p!sses down for 30 minutes, the sun then comes out, it dries and it’s back to being glorious. Just sit at a cafe, grab a beer and some grub, and chillax.
While the rain may add a romantic charm to the lantern-lit streets, it can also disrupt travel plans. If you’re visiting in the cooler months of December and January, pack a light jacket as temperatures can dip to around 18°C in the evenings. Planning your trip around the weather can make all the difference in fully enjoying Hoi An’s beauty and charm: but I’ll caveat it is nature, and she will make her own mind up as to what she’s going to pump out for Hoi An weather at any given time.
Hoi An Beach and Explore the Cham Islands: what to do in Hoi An
Hoi An’s beaches offer a stunning tropical paradise, with An Bang Beach standing out as the crown jewel – a pristine stretch of golden sand extending 4Km, lined with charming beach bars and restaurants. Just a 20-minute boat ride from the mainland, Cham Island provides an extraordinary experience, boasting crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
The best time to visit is between March and September when the seas are calm and weather conditions are optimal, making these beaches a must-visit destination.
What to do in Hoi An, Vietnam: Our Review Conclusions
What to do in Hoi An: Hoi An Vietnam is a destination that effortlessly weaves history, culture, and natural beauty into a captivating experience: I mentioned it before, but we immediately fell in love with the place, it has such allure and charm. From the winding labyrinth of streets of the Ancient Town to the golden sands of An Bang Beach, this charming Vietnamese town offers so many activities that cater to every type of persona.
Whether you like a wander through centuries-old architecture for your what to do in Hoi An, taking a bum boat along the Thu Bon River, cycling through peaceful rice paddies, eating: non-stop eating, or shopping in the markets (maybe even getting a Guchi, Prarda, or Louis Button handbag) Hoi An encourages you to slow down and take in its unique character. She’s a stunner.
Beyond its scenic allure, Hoi An delivers unforgettable experiences through its food, markets, and traditional crafts. Sampling local dishes like cao lầu or joining a lantern-making workshop isn’t just about ticking off activities; it’s a way to connect with the town’s rich heritage and legacy.
The warmth of its people adds another layer to what to do in Hoi An, whether it’s the friendly street vendors (sometimes too friendly) or the tailors who will come to know your measurements better than you do. Every interaction leaves a lasting impression here and deepens your affection for this most gorgeous locale of central Vietnam.
Ultimately, Hoi An is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left its lantern-lit streets and rivers. Its charm isn’t in grand monuments, high-rises or flashy attractions but in the little details—the scent of incense wafting through the air, the gentle sway of boats on the river, the chitter chatter in the markets, the food (of course) and the timeless beauty of its streets.
Visiting Hoi An feels less like tourism and sightseeing and more like stepping into history if you can ‘blinker’ out the bustling crowds and constant pestering to buy a pop-up Christmas card, or a crawling Spiderman toy with a machine gun. It’s the kind of destination that invites you to return again and again for more what to do in Hoi An, not just for what you might have missed, but just to do it all over again: be seeing you Hoi An, we miss you.
Singapore to Hoi An
Fly to Da Nang (this is what we did)
- The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport (DAD).
- Several airlines, such as Singapore Airlines, VietJet Air, and Scoot, offer direct flights from Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) to Da Nang. The flight duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An
- Once you arrive in Da Nang, Hoi An is about 30 km away (a 45-minute drive). You have several options for this leg of the journey:
- Private Taxi: Book a taxi at the airport. Prices range from USD 15–20. Apps like Grab also operate in Da Nang.
- Shuttle Bus: Some hotels in Hoi An offer shuttle services. Alternatively, there are shared minibuses at the airport for a lower cost.
- Motorbike Taxi: For solo travellers or those feeling adventurous, motorbike taxis (available via Grab) are a cheaper, faster option.
- Public Bus: The yellow local bus (Bus #1) runs between Da Nang and Hoi An. It’s the most economical choice, costing less than USD 2. However, it may take longer and isn’t as convenient with luggage.
Pro Tip
Make sure you have the Grab App. I moan and groan constantly about the money-grabbing, poor service-oriented, arrogant company that Grab is in Singapore, BUT, in Vietnam, they are most excellent. We literally waited until we had our luggage and booked a Grab from Da Nang to Hi An, it arrived in 5 minutes. No cash is needed, it’s all charged to the App.
We constantly used them from that point on, even for day excursions to Ba Na Hills, Marble Hills and so on. The driver even waited for us in Ba Na, charging the exact same return fee despite waiting for us for ~5 hours. Grab Vietnam = EXCELLENT!!!