Unforgettable Things to Do in Hoi An: A 3-Day Journey Through Vietnam’s Heritage Town

There are places that leave a mark — not just through what you see, but through what you feel. Hoi An, with its golden walls, glowing lanterns, peaceful countryside, and deep cultural soul, is one of those places. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, this charming town invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

This 3-day Hoi An itinerary takes you through the Top 9 unforgettable things to do in Hoi An, curated to offer you a perfect mix of history, food, craft, and relaxation.

Day 1: Ancient Streets and Riverside Magic

Walk Through Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Start your journey in the heart of Hoi An — the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town. With its lantern-lined alleyways, faded French architecture, and wooden merchant houses, it feels like stepping into a living museum.

Take your time. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, explore hidden courtyards, and stop at local art galleries. The charm lies in the small details — a smiling vendor, incense drifting from a temple, the sound of bicycles on cobbled streets.

Visit a Local Tailor for Custom Clothes

Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors. Step into one of the many shops, choose your fabric, and get measured for custom-made clothing — suits, dresses, or even a traditional ao dai. Within 24 hours, your outfit will be ready.

It’s one of the most unique souvenirs you can take home — something made just for you.

Take a Sunset Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

As the sun begins to dip, head to the riverbank and hop on a small wooden boat for a sunset cruise along the Thu Bon River. Watch the town light up as the sky turns orange and gold, and feel the world slow down around you.

Release Lanterns at Night

After the cruise, take part in a beloved local tradition — releasing a paper lantern into the river. It’s simple, peaceful, and symbolic: a wish carried gently downstream. Whether you believe in wishes or not, it’s a moment of quiet beauty you won’t forget.

Day 2: Flavors, Creativity, and Local Life

Join a Hoi An Food Tour

Start your second day with a guided food tour through the backstreets and markets of Hoi An. Sample signature dishes like Cao Lau, White rose dumplings, Banh Mi, and Chicken Rice

This is more than just eating — it’s about stories, recipes, and the proud heritage behind each dish. If you’re a foodie, this is your dream day.

If you're ready to taste your way through Hoi An, follow the addresses below and enjoy some of the town’s most delicious and authentic dishes: 

 1. Banh Mi Phuong

• Famous for: Vietnamese baguette sandwich (Banh Mi)
  
  
• Why go: Anthony Bourdain called it the best bánh mì in the world. Crispy bread, rich fillings, and tons of flavor.
  
  
• Location: 2B Phan Chu Trinh Street
  
  

 2. White Rose Restaurant (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc)

• Famous for: White Rose Dumplings — a Hoi An specialty made with rice paper, shrimp, and crispy shallots
  
  
• Why go: Handmade daily from a secret family recipe. You can even watch the process.
  
  
• Location: 533 Hai Ba Trung Street
  
  

3. Cao Lau Thanh

• Famous for: Cao Lau — the iconic noodle dish of Hoi An
  
  
• Why go: Authentic flavor, unique noodles soaked in lye water, served with pork, herbs, and crispy croutons.
  
  
• Location: 26 Thai Phien Street
  
  

4. Com Ga Nga

• Famous for: Hoi An-style chicken rice with tender shredded chicken and flavorful rice.
  
  
• Why go: A local favorite known for its authentic taste, generous portions, and affordable prices. Great spot for a no-fuss, delicious meal.
  
  
• Address: 8 Phan Chau Trinh Street, Hoi An

Take a Cooking Class in Tra Que Vegetable Village

In the afternoon, escape the buzz of the Old Town and head to Tra Que Vegetable Village. Surrounded by lush gardens and fragrant herbs, you’ll learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes with the help of local chefs.

Pick your own herbs, prepare your ingredients, and cook outdoors — the flavors are even richer when you’ve made the meal yourself.

Learn How to Make a Traditional Lantern

Complete your creative day with a lantern-making workshop. Under the guidance of artisans, you’ll choose your colors, stretch the silk, and shape the frame — learning firsthand how the glowing beauty of Hoi An’s lanterns is born.

It’s calming, hands-on, and deeply satisfying.

Day 3: Nature, Bikes, and the Beach Breeze

Explore the Countryside by Bicycle

Hoi An isn’t just charming in the center — its outskirts are equally peaceful. Rent a bicycle and explore the nearby countryside. Ride past rice paddies, small temples, water buffalo, and locals going about their day.

Stop at roadside tea stalls, take photos at every bend, and feel the pace of life soften.

Relax at An Bang Beach

Wrap up your Hoi An journey with a few peaceful hours at An Bang Beach — where soft white sand meets calm blue waves. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy a chilled coconut by the sea, this is the perfect final touch to your trip.

Hoi An gave me so much more than I expected. Beyond the sights and flavors, it gave me space — space to breathe, to reflect, to feel connected again.

And the best part? This entire journey was beautifully arranged by Glamour Adventures, a Vietnam-based travel company that understands how to craft experiences that are not just smooth, but soulful. From cultural workshops to food tours and gentle countryside rides, everything flowed with ease — letting me focus fully on discovery.

If you’re thinking of visiting Vietnam, make time for Hoi An. Come with curiosity, leave with stories — and maybe, like me, a piece of this peaceful town tucked into your heart.

Join us to visit the great places of Vietnam

Prestigious travel unit: https://www.glamouradventures.com/

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+84 962 311 786

No 8 Bau Oc Thuong Street, Hoi An, Vietnam