Spending a getaway in Hoi An is more than just a trip; it's a moment to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with yourself amidst the lush countryside of places like moodhoian. Wondering what are the best things to do in Hoi An? This curated list brings you over 20 memorable experiences to enjoy from sunrise to nightfall.
Hoi An Ancient Town is the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mossy roofs, narrow alleys, and colorful lanterns paint a vivid picture of a bustling trading port from the past.
Tucked quietly behind the bustling main streets of Hội An, Bougainvillea Alley is a narrow lane where vivid pink and purple bougainvillea spill over golden-yellow walls - a scene that feels almost painted.
Originally built in the late 17th century by the Fujian Chinese community, this grand hall stands as a vibrant symbol of Hoi An's multicultural past. Step inside to admire the intricate carvings, colorful ceramic mosaics, and incense-filled halls that echo centuries of devotion
Stepping into Tấn Ký Ancient House feels like entering a time capsule, where the traditional architecture of old Hội An is perfectly preserved. This house is not just an architectural heritage site but also a witness to the unique cultural fusion that brings visitors back to the past to explore the lifestyle of wealthy merchants of a bygone era.
To gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and culture of this land, don’t forget to visit the Hội An Museum. It showcases from ancient ceramics to historical documents, providing a comprehensive insight into the formation and development of Hội An through many ups and downs.
The name “Bà Mụ” comes from the official names - Cẩm Hà Cung and Hải Bình Cung - were simplified by locals over centuries. “Bà Mụ” refers to the Twelve Midwives and Mother Goddess Thien Hau, whom the pagoda honors. Now opening daily, it’s ideal to visit in early mornings and late afternoons for soft light and fewer crowds.
A visit to Bay Mau Coconut Forest offers a different experience - like stepping into a miniature version of the Mekong Delta within Hội An. Sitting in a basket boat, weaving through lush coconut groves, and watching skilled boat performances will create unforgettable memories and immerse you in local nature and culture.
While Hội An is best known for its historic town, its coastline offers an entirely different experience. Each beach holds a distinct identity shaped by both geography and community.
In Hội An, fashion meets craftsmanship with a service that has made the town famous: same-day custom tailoring - all typically completed within 24 hours, sometimes even within a few hours. This is rather made-to-measure garments crafted by skilled tailors who work with precision, speed, and an eye for details. All you need to do: choose your fabric, get professionally measured, and return for a fitting. The result: a truly personal item of clothing, made to your specifications, that becomes a wearable memory of your trip.
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Workshops in Hội An aren’t tourist gimmicks - they’re run by artisans who’ve spent decades practicing their crafts. These experiences connect visitors with living traditions:
This village has been making terracotta pottery for over 500 years using hand-thrown methods and traditional kilns. Unlike decorative ceramics in big cities, the pottery here is functional - made for cooking, storage, and daily use. Visitors can try the wheel themselves, guided by local potters. What's especially memorable is watching entire families work together, each step done by hand.
A short bike ride from the old town, Trà Quế Vegetable Village is a model of sustainable agriculture in Hoi An. Farmers here use seaweed fertilizer from the nearby river and cultivate aromatic herbs that supply Hội An’s street food stalls and restaurants. Travelers can join in planting, watering, or harvesting, and enjoy a meal made with what they’ve helped grow. It’s a rare window into the rhythms of rural life that still sustain the region.
The 20-year-old brick kiln of Duy Vinh is an emerging check-in spot, drawing attention for its weathered, almost cinematic look. Standing alone among Duy Vinh rice fields in Vinh Nam Village - 10 km away from Hoi An, this abandoned kiln, with its cylindrical, red-brick structure - once used for firing clay, has become a visual landmark, ideal for photographers and those seeking lesser-known, architecturally distinct backdrops.
Formerly a quiet fishing community, Tam Thanh has been transformed into Vietnam’s first outdoor mural village. Local homes are now decorated with colorful, hand-painted murals telling stories of daily life, culture, and community spirit. Created as part of a community art project, the village blends creativity with purpose - promoting sustainable tourism and preserving local identity.
For a break from the city and a plunge into marine life, take a boat to Chàm Islands (Cù Lao Chàm) - a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve located 15 km off Hội An’s coast. With coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and abundant seafood, it’s a haven for snorkeling, eco-tours, and beach camping. The island has a rich fishing culture and is committed to marine conservation, including a ban on plastic bags. It’s the ideal spot for travelers seeking raw coastal beauty and a deeper understanding of local island life.
Moodhoian Resort is more than a peaceful retreat - it’s the perfect starting point to explore the charming rhythms of Hội An by bicycle. Below are handpicked spots within 1 km, perfect for a golden-hour ride:
Jack's Cat Cafe: A cosy sanctuary for cat lovers, where rescued cats roam freely in a garden café setting. Enjoy coffee while interacting with dozens of friendly felines, part of a non-profit animal rescue initiative.
Chân Đất Living Room: A unique community library and café blending books, conversation, and holistic activities. Join a tarot reading, participate in morning meditation, or simply read in silence - a nurturing space for both locals and travelers.
Vườn dừa: Often called the "Mekong Delta of Hội An," this water coconut forest offers basket boat rides through peaceful canals. Experience local waterway culture just minutes from your stay.
When the lanterns light up, slow down your pace and treat your body to gentle restoration. At Epiphany Spa - nestled within the lush grounds of Moodhoian Resort - spa experiences go beyond massage.
This wellness sanctuary offers personalised treatments including traditional Vietnamese massage, herbal body therapy, meditation, and yoga. Natural ingredients sourced from the resort’s herbal garden are used to support your body-mind balance in a setting designed for quiet reflection.
Location: Inside Moodhoian Riverside Resort & Spa - Thôn Võng Nhi, Cẩm Thanh, Hội An, Quảng Nam 51313, Vietnam
Located on an island in the Thu Bồn River, the Hội An Impression Park is a cultural village where visitors walk through immersive reconstructions of Hội An’s past: ancient Japanese quarters, Vietnamese villages, Cham architecture, and more. Live performances occur throughout the park - from lion dances and folk songs to martial arts and traditional games - all staged in period costume.
The highlight of the park is the “Hội An Memories” show - a large-scale outdoor performance featuring over 500 actors. Through music, dance, and visual effects, the show brings to life the town’s 400-year history, from bustling port scenes to royal processions and village life. With a backdrop of open sky and dramatic stage lighting, it's a moving and grand retelling of Hội An’s identity through time.
When night falls, head to Nguyễn Hoàng Night Market, where lantern light floods the stalls with color. Located just across from the Japanese Covered Bridge, this market offers handcrafted souvenirs, silk lanterns, local snacks, and traditional toys. It’s the perfect stop for casual shopping, photography, or tasting Hội An-style grilled coconut pancakes and herbal teas.
Set along the romantic Hoai River, the Hoi An Night Market comes alive after dark as a lively showcase of local culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship. Visitors can stroll through lantern-lit stalls offering everything from traditional street snacks to freshly grilled seafood, alongside beautifully crafted souvenirs and handmade goods - all in an atmosphere glowing with warm lantern light.
Releasing a wishing lantern onto the Hoai River is one of Hội An’s most serene and symbolic experiences. As night falls and floating lanterns light up the water, each carrying hopes, prayers, or silent wishes, you’ll witness a quiet beauty that reflects the timeless charm of the old town.
This iconic Hội An noodle dish features chewy noodles, savory broth, char siu-style pork, and crispy pork cracklings - a recipe exclusive to Hội An thanks to its water, traditionally drawn from the ancient Ba Le well.
A beloved version of Mi Quang, a Central Vietnamese noodle dish served with turmeric noodles, aromatic broth, fresh herbs, and toppings like pork, shrimp, or boiled eggs.
Frequently called “the best banh mi in the world,” this shop is renowned for its perfectly layered sandwich of grilled meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, herbs, and secret sauces - all wrapped in a warm, crispy baguette.
Hoi An chicken rice is a local staple - fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, topped with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and served with a light dipping sauce. Hien is among the most trusted names.
Famous for two specialties: soft steamed white rose dumplings (banh bao) and chewy shrimp-filled banh quai vac, both served with sweet-savory fish sauce and fried shallots.
A unique snack from Cam Nam village, combining crispy smashed rice crackers (banh dap) with stir-fried baby clams (hen xao). Salty, crunchy, and intensely flavorful - a true countryside delicacy.
Street-style skewers grilled over hot charcoal, marinated in lemongrass and spices, served with rice noodles, herbs, and peanut sauce - a favorite Hoi An street food experience.
Che Ba Tho is a dessert stall offering a wide selection of Vietnamese sweet soups (chè) like mung bean, corn, lotus seed, and coconut-based puddings - the perfect way to end your food tour.
In the calm rhythm of Hoi An, few things beat sipping a drink on a rooftop terrace as the town glows with lantern light. Visit early in the morning or at sunset for peaceful views of the tiled rooftops and lantern-lit streets.
Among countless options for accommodation in Hội An, Moodhoian – Riverside Resort & Spa stands out as a serene, design-conscious retreat immersed in greenery and calm.
From Epiphany Spa, offering personalized wellness rituals, to the peaceful poolside ambiance and nourishing dishes at Moodbistro, every detail is crafted to soothe both body and mind. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the garden, morning yoga, and holistic therapies using herbs grown on-site.
Moodhoian is more than a place to stay - it’s a space to reconnect with yourself, slow down, and breathe deeply.
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