Nestled along Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a dreamy destination that captures the hearts of travelers from around the world. With its lantern-lit streets, rich heritage, tailor shops, and nearby beaches, planning a Hoi An itinerary is essential to make the most of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or beach lover, this guide delivers a detailed and well-balanced Hoi An itinerary for three unforgettable days in Vietnam’s most charming town. Let’s find out with Hoianscootersrental.com through the following article.
Day One of Your Hoi An Itinerary: Historical Highlights and the Ancient Town’s Charm
Your Hoi An itinerary should begin in the heart of the Ancient Town. This well-preserved trading port is an open-air museum filled with centuries-old architecture, Japanese bridges, and colorful lanterns.
Morning: Discover the Iconic Ancient Town
Start your day early to avoid crowds. Grab a traditional Vietnamese coffee and explore these must-see landmarks:
Attraction | Description |
Japanese Covered Bridge | A symbol of Hoi An built in the 16th century, showcasing Japanese design. |
Tan Ky Old House | A preserved merchant house showing Vietnamese-Chinese architectural fusion. |
Assembly Hall of Fujian | A beautiful temple built by Chinese immigrants to worship sea goddesses. |
Walking through the Ancient Town is like stepping into the past. Most attractions are within walking distance, so it’s perfect for leisurely exploration.
Afternoon: Museum Visits and Shopping
In the afternoon, continue your Hoi An itinerary with cultural experiences:
- Visit the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture for insights into the town’s trading roots.
- Stop by local artisan shops and craft houses selling silk, ceramics, and traditional toys.
- Enjoy a traditional lunch of Cao Lau, a noodle dish unique to Hoi An.
Evening: Lantern Magic and River Boat Ride
As night falls, Hoi An transforms into a lantern-lit wonderland. A must-do in your Hoi An itinerary:
- Take a short boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
- Release floating lanterns into the water for good luck.
- Dine at a riverside restaurant offering local cuisine and views of the glowing town.
Day Two of Your Hoi An Itinerary: Cooking Classes and Custom Tailoring
Your second day in Hoi An dives deeper into the town’s culinary and tailoring traditions. It’s all about immersive experiences today.
Morning: Vietnamese Cooking Class and Market Tour
The best Hoi An itinerary includes a cooking class. Start with a visit to the vibrant local market:
Activity | Location | Duration |
Market Tour | Hoi An Central Market | 1 hour |
Cooking Class | Red Bridge / Gioan Cookery | 3–4 hours |
Learn to cook iconic dishes such as Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes) and Fresh Spring Rolls, then enjoy your creation for lunch.
Afternoon: Custom Tailoring Experience
Hoi An is known as the tailoring capital of Vietnam. Your Hoi An itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a tailor shop.
Recommended Tailors:
Tailor Shop | Specialty | Turnaround Time |
BeBe Tailor | Casual and formal wear | 24–48 hours |
Yaly Couture | High-end garments | 1–3 days |
A Dong Silk | Custom suits & Ao Dai | 1–2 days |
Bring a design reference or choose from their catalogs. Many shops offer free fittings and alterations before pickup.
Evening: Explore the Night Market
End your second day with a stroll through Nguyen Hoang Night Market. Here you can:
- Shop for lanterns, souvenirs, and street snacks.
- Enjoy street performances and live music.
- Try Mango Cake, a chewy treat native to Hoi An.
Day Three of Your Hoi An Itinerary: Beach Vibes and Countryside Exploration
The final day of your Hoi An itinerary combines relaxation with rural charm, ideal for winding down your adventure.
Morning: Soak Up the Sun at An Bang Beach
Start the day with a short cycle or taxi ride to An Bang Beach—one of Vietnam’s top-rated beaches.
Activity | Time Recommended | Cost |
Sunbathing/Swimming | 7:00–10:00 AM | Free |
Beachside Breakfast | 8:00–9:00 AM | $3–$6 USD |
Massage by the Beach | Optional | $10–$15 USD |
Relax in a beachfront café with a smoothie and enjoy the peaceful ocean views before heading inland.
Afternoon: Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
Add a cultural touch to your Hoi An itinerary with a guided visit to Tra Que Village, a few kilometers away:
- Learn about organic farming techniques.
- Participate in planting or harvesting herbs.
- Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch prepared by villagers.
This part of your itinerary supports eco-tourism and local communities while offering a hands-on cultural experience.
Evening: Sunset Views and Final Souvenir Shopping
Wrap up your Hoi An itinerary with a sunset walk along the riverbank. Head back to the Ancient Town for:
- Last-minute souvenir shopping at local boutiques.
- Sipping cocktails at rooftop bars.
- Capturing final photos of the glowing lanterns.
Full 3-Day Hoi An Itinerary at a Glance
Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
1 | Ancient Town sightseeing | Museums & traditional shopping | Lantern-lit river cruise & dinner |
2 | Market tour & cooking class | Tailor fittings for custom clothes | Night Market shopping & street food |
3 | An Bang Beach relaxation | Tra Que Village eco-tour | Sunset walk & souvenir shopping |
Extend Your Vietnam Adventure After Your Hoi An Itinerary
If you’re looking for even more authentic adventures after finishing your Hoi An itinerary, head north to the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Giang.
Local Ha Giang Tours offers unforgettable experiences through Vietnam’s most scenic mountain passes. Highlights include:
- Multi-day Ha Giang Loop motorbike tours
- Visits to minority ethnic villages
- Motorbike rentals for independent travel
Their team of local guides ensures your journey is both safe and enriching. For booking and inquiries, call +84 38 734 0762.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect Hoi An itinerary ensures you see the best of what this enchanting town has to offer—from cultural landmarks and tailoring to beach days and authentic cuisine. With three well-planned days, you’ll experience the magic of Hoi An in a way that feels both immersive and relaxed.
Don’t rush—Hoi An is a town meant to be savored, and with the right Hoi An itinerary, it will become one of the most memorable parts of your Vietnam journey.