Going to Hoi An, many expect peace and serenity. But let’s be real: what you’ll actually run into is… noise, lots of it. The Ancient Town looks poetic and dreamy online, but in reality? Packed, congested, and overwhelming as it welcomes thousands of tourists every single day.
This article isn’t here to complain about Hoi An’s crowds — they’ve been around for years already. Instead, I’ll share how to truly experience the authentic Hoi An in every step, every breath, without losing your chill. If you’re hunting for the best thing to do in Hoi An, this guide will help you cut through the noise.
Going to Hoi An, many expect peace and serenity. But let’s be real: what you’ll actually run into is… noise, lots of it. The Ancient Town looks poetic and dreamy online, but in reality? Packed, congested, and overwhelming as it welcomes thousands of tourists every single day.
This article isn’t here to complain about Hoi An’s crowds — they’ve been around for years already. Instead, I’ll share how to truly experience the authentic Hoi An in every step, every breath, without losing your chill. If you’re hunting for the best thing to do in Hoi An, this guide will help you cut through the noise.
Picking the right time of year is 70% of a successful trip. Trust me, pick the wrong one and you’ll end up stuck in your hotel binge-watching Netflix!
Hoi An has two distinctive seasons:
Simple: You’re a tourist, I’m a “tourist-native.” I grew up in Hoi An for 18 years. I’ve seen the Ancient Town when streets were empty, all the way to when it became the super-crowded version you see today. That’s why I know how to find the best thing to do in Hoi An without the chaos.
Wake Up Early for the Real Hoi An
Want to experience Hoi An like a true local? Step one: wake up early. I get it — vacations are supposed to be chill, not about setting alarms at 5–6AM like you’re clocking into work! But honestly, if you don’t wake up early in Hoi An, you’ll be swept up in the flood of countless other day-trippers pouring in. For me, it’s the ultimate best thing to do in Hoi An if you want peace and authenticity.
What Happens If You Wake Up Early?
Congrats — you instantly outpace thousands of tourists! Golden hours: 5:30 – 8:30 AM. The sun is soft, the air fresh, and the streets nearly empty. This is when only a handful of early risers enjoy the town. You can stroll at your own pace, breathe in the morning mist mixed with the antique wooden scent of the Ancient Town, and snap rare photos of just you (without a hundred other strangers in the frame).
On top of that, my favorite reward: sipping coffee at a small open-air stall near the Japanese Covered Bridge. Nothing beats a hot, fragrant cup while soaking in the calm atmosphere of Hoi An mornings — something you can’t capture at night.
What About Nighttime “Hoi An Lantern Magic”? Yes, the Ancient Town at night is absolutely glowing, with thousands of lanterns sparkling on the Thu Bon River. But here’s the price: the prettier the lights, the bigger the crowd. People often suggest heading out after 9PM, but honestly — even then it’s still packed. Only around 10PM do things calm down a bit, though motorbikes are allowed back into the Old Town by then. So if you walk, keep your eyes open!
Of course, everyone thinks of the Ancient Town as Hoi An’s must-see landmark. But the best thing to do in Hoi An isn’t just limited to lanterns and old streets. Here are three less obvious experiences that I find equally worth it:
This riverside palm area is both peaceful and refreshing — plus you get the unique chance to ride a bamboo basket boat, a cultural icon of Vietnam’s coastal fishermen.
But here’s the catch: it gets packed. Think “rush hour traffic jams,” except on water. Just like Ancient Town, the hack here is simple: go early, win big.
Cost: A ride for two (including entrance fee, basket boat, and rower, excluding food) is about 120,000 – 140,000 VND (~6–7 USD).
Tip: Bargaining is 100% normal here. Don’t hesitate to negotiate. The price I shared is what locals pay — the fairest deal you’ll get.
Trà Quế is famous for producing the aromatic herbs used in Hoi An’s specialties like Mi Quang, Banh Xeo, and Cao Lau. Especially their fresh herb baskets — the soul of every authentic dish here.
What makes it special: locals don’t use chemicals at all. Fertilizers come from natural riverweed and algae taken daily from the nearby Co Co River, and the water also comes straight from it. That’s why the vegetables here taste so fresh compared to supermarket greens.
Must-try: A plate of fresh herbs at a roadside restaurant near the village — you’ll taste a huge difference from store-bought.
Ticket: Only 20,000 VND (~1 USD).
Note: It’s sunny and hot in summer, so prepare hats and sunscreen to keep your trip more enjoyable.
Once upon a time, Cua Dai Beach was Hoi An’s pride. But thanks to climate change and severe erosion, it’s no longer the beauty it once was, despite restoration attempts. That’s why An Bang Beach rose to become the new favorite.
An Bang is spacious, breezy, and perfect for laying back with a cold beer while soaking up the sun. Restaurants line the shore with deck chairs, so you’ll easily find a spot to chill.
Heads up: Waves here can get wild during the rainy season, so it’s best to avoid swimming then for safety.
I’m Chris from Crowne Plaza Danang City Centre – thanks for walking with me through every corner of Hoi An! Everything you just read comes from my years of living and breathing this town – from quiet early mornings in the Ancient Town, to wandering through vegetable villages, to finding peace on An Bang Beach.
These aren’t tips copied from travel brochures – they’re moments I’ve lived, lessons I’ve learned, and experiences I keep coming back to. Hopefully, they’ll spark ideas for your own journey and help you discover what truly feels like the best thing to do in Hoi An.
But hey – every trip is personal. Try what makes you curious, skip what doesn’t, and craft your own “must-do list” when you’re here. Maybe your list will end up different from mine… and that’s the beauty of traveling.
Relax in our 34m² Standard Room, offering a choice of two Twin Beds or one King Bed. Enjoy a serene river view and a well-appointed bathroom featuring a separate bathtub and walk-in shower for your comfort.
Experience the comfort of our 40m² Premium Room, featuring your choice of two Twin Beds or one King Bed. Take in stunning river views and enjoy a well-designed bathroom with a separate bathtub and walk-in shower. Guests also receive exclusive lounge access for an elevated stay.
Step into our spacious 63m² Junior Suite, featuring a King Bed and a Twin Bed. Enjoy a comfortable living area with kitchenette equipped with microwave and refrigerator. The well-designed bathroom includes a separate bathtub and walk-in shower.
Step into the comfort of our 82m² One Bedroom Suite, where a King Bed and peaceful river views await. Unwind in the inviting lounge, or refresh in a thoughtfully designed bathroom featuring both a separate bathtub and a walk-in shower. Plus, enjoy exclusive lounge access for a more refined stay
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If you insist on booking a beach hotel this season, you’ll feel the cold piercing through your skin and the cold emptiness in your heart – sitting there watching the howling wind and rain, like watching paint dry in the rain. Bottom line: right season, right choice for a trip that’s legit from A to Z!
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