7 Days In Hoi An: Going Beyond The Tourist Trail
Dubbed the “Yellow City,” there's much more to Hoi An than just its picturesque architecture and lantern-lit streets. | Source: Shutterstock
Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is a city steeped in history and culture. This charming city was once a major trading port, bustling with merchants and traders from all over the world. Today, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its well-preserved ancient town drawing visitors from all over the globe.
However, don’t let the tourist crowds fool you. Dubbed the “Yellow City,” there’s much more to Hoi An than just its picturesque architecture and lantern-lit streets. Beyond the bustling tourist crowds lie lesser-known spots that are equally worth exploring. From tranquil islands to lush greenery, this historic city offers a range of experiences that will leave you enchanted and awed.
Hoi An is not just about its stunning landmarks and picturesque views; it is also a haven for food enthusiasts. The city boasts a rich culinary culture that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. From Cao Lau, a savory noodle dish that can only be found in Hoi An, to the White Rose Dumplings, a specialty of the city made from translucent white dough filled with shrimp or pork and topped with crispy shallots and aromatic herbs. With its flavorful and unique cuisine, Hoi An is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
In this 7-day itinerary, we’ll take you on a journey through the ancient city’s hidden gems. Hoi An is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit, and this itinerary includes a mix of off-the-beaten-path locations and mainstream tourist spots. There are plenty of opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Hoi An
After you check in to your hotel, take a walk through the Old Town to get a feel for the area. Hoi An’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautiful place to explore. Take a stroll along the river and check out the historical buildings and temples, like the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. In the evening, enjoy some local food at the Hoi An Night Market.
Day 2: Tra Que Vegetable Village and An Bang Beach
Start your day with a visit to Tra Que Vegetable Village, which is located just outside the main town. This village is known for its organic produce, and you can take a tour of the gardens, learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, and even have a foot massage using local herbs. Afterward, head to An Bang Beach for some relaxation and beach time – a quieter beach than others in the area, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Day 3: Cham Island and Cua Dai Beach
Take a boat trip to Cham Island, a small island off the coast of Hoi An. Here, you can snorkel, swim, and explore the island’s beautiful beaches and forested areas. Afterward, head to Cua Dai Beach for some more beach time. This is a popular beach with both locals and tourists, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
Day 4: Hoi An Countryside and Lantern Making
Today, explore the Hoi An countryside with a bike tour. You’ll ride through rice paddies, farmland, and villages and get a glimpse of daily life in rural Vietnam. In the afternoon, take a lantern-making workshop and learn how to create beautiful lanterns for which Hoi An is famous.
Day 5: My Son Sanctuary and Marble Mountains
Today, take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary, an ancient temple complex that dates back to the 4th century. The temples here are dedicated to Hindu deities and are a beautiful and fascinating sight to see. Afterward, head to Marble Mountains, a series of five marble and limestone hills. You can hike to the top of the mountains for beautiful views of the area.
Day 6: Cooking Class and Tailor-Made Clothes
Take a cooking class today and learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. You’ll visit a local market to pick ingredients and then learn how to prepare and cook the dishes. In the afternoon, head to one of Hoi An’s many tailor shops and have some clothes made to measure. Hoi An is known for its tailors, and you can get high-quality garments made for a fraction of the price you’d pay back home.
Day 7: Relaxation and Departure
Today is your last day in Hoi An, so take some time to relax and reflect on your trip. You might want to get a massage, take a yoga class, or just spend some time by the pool. In the evening, head to one of Hoi An’s many restaurants for a farewell dinner before departing the next day.