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First-timer highlights

3 Days in Hoi An — First-Timer Highlights

highlights city-break hoi-an ancient-town vietnam
Length
3 days
Stops
15
3 Days in Hoi An — First-Timer Highlights
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This itinerary guides first-time visitors through Hoi An's most iconic experiences, from its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town to serene river activities and culinary delights. Perfect for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

Sightseeing 1 Culture 4 Shopping 2 Nightlife 1 Food 2 Activity 4 Nature 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 6.5 hrs
1

Japanese Covered Bridge

Sightseeing 1 hour

Marvel at this iconic 18th-century architectural masterpiece, a symbol of Hoi An's rich history and cultural fusion.

Good to know

Free to view, a small fee may apply to cross for some visitors; best visited in the morning to avoid crowds.

2

Old House of Tan Ky

Culture 1 hour

Step inside one of Hoi An's best-preserved merchant houses to witness a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles.

Good to know

A small entrance fee applies, often included in the Ancient Town ticket package.

3

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

Culture 1 hour

Explore this ornate and colorful temple, a vibrant testament to the Chinese community's historical presence and spiritual life in Hoi An.

Good to know

Part of the Ancient Town ticket, remember to dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.

4

Hoi An Central Market

Shopping 1.5 hours

Immerse yourself in the bustling heart of local life, where you can find fresh produce, street food, and traditional crafts.

Good to know

Visit in the morning for the freshest ingredients and a lively atmosphere; practice polite bargaining for goods.

5

Hoi An Night Market & Thu Bon River Lanterns

Nightlife 2 hours

Experience the magical glow of thousands of colorful lanterns illuminating the Ancient Town and enjoy a serene boat ride on the Thu Bon River.

Good to know

Best visited after sunset; negotiate prices for boat rides before embarking.

Day 2 5 stops · about 11 hrs
6

Hoi An Cooking Class (with market visit)

Food Half day

Delight your palate by learning to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes, starting with a lively market tour to select fresh ingredients.

Good to know

Book your class in advance as popular options fill up quickly; many include hotel pickup.

7

Tra Que Vegetable Village

Activity 2 hours

Discover the traditional organic farming methods of this serene village and even try your hand at gardening with local farmers.

Good to know

Often visited by bicycle from Hoi An; wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in fields.

8

Coconut Forest Basket Boat Ride (Bay Mau Coconut Forest)

Activity 1.5 hours

Enjoy a unique and fun experience paddling through the nipa palm forest in a traditional Vietnamese basket boat.

Good to know

Located a short taxi or motorbike ride from the Ancient Town; combine with a local tour for convenience.

9

An Bang Beach

Nature 2 hours

Relax on the golden sands of this popular beach, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling town with clear waters and beachfront cafes.

Good to know

Easily accessible by bicycle or taxi from Hoi An Ancient Town; many restaurants offer sun loungers.

10

Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant

Food 1.5 hours

Savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine while enjoying picturesque views of the Thu Bon River, especially enchanting as the lanterns glow.

Good to know

Look for restaurants along Bach Dang Street for the best riverfront dining experience; consider booking for popular spots.

Day 3 5 stops · about 8.5 hrs
11

Precious Heritage Art Gallery & Museum

Culture 1.5 hours

Explore Réhahn's stunning photographic collection that beautifully captures the diverse ethnic cultures and vibrant traditions of Vietnam.

Good to know

Entry is free; located conveniently within the Ancient Town, making it an easy stop.

12

Hoi An Museum of Culture and History

Culture 1 hour

Delve into Hoi An's fascinating past, from its Cham origins to its prosperous trading port era, through artifacts and exhibits.

Good to know

A small entrance fee applies, often part of the Ancient Town ticket; provides valuable historical context.

13

Hoi An Silk Lantern Making Workshop

Activity 2 hours

Unleash your creativity by crafting your own traditional silk lantern, a perfect and personalized souvenir of Hoi An.

Good to know

Numerous workshops are available throughout the Ancient Town; book in advance for structured classes.

14

Tailor Shop Experience

Shopping 2 hours

Indulge in Hoi An's renowned tailoring scene by having custom-made clothing, from suits to dresses, crafted to perfection.

Good to know

Allow 24-48 hours for fittings and adjustments; research reputable shops to ensure quality.

15

Spa Treatment / Massage

Activity 2 hours

Unwind and rejuvenate with a relaxing spa treatment or traditional Vietnamese massage after days of exploration.

Good to know

Hoi An offers a wide range of spas; book ahead for popular establishments, especially during peak season.

Where to stay

Hotels in Hoi An

Book direct on our own Hoi An hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Hoi An

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Hoi An itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Hoi An, from our own travel research.

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